HyperLocal News for Barberton, Ohio

Strongsville Golf and Mini Golf: Play like the pros, or just playLooking for something a little different to do with the family? Why not take to the green and make memories? Located on Pearl Road in Strongsville, Strongsville Golf is your one-stop-shop for mini golf, a driving range, golf simulator, pro lessons and a pro shop. Whatever your golf need, Strongsville Golf can handle it with ease.

Cleveland Browns Stadium: Where Cleveland bleeds brown and orangeIt's hard to come to Cleveland without setting your sight on the massive Cleveland Browns Stadium. Located at the North Coast Harbor, the Cleveland Browns Stadium opened in 1999. The old stadium was torn down in 1997 to make room for the immense 73,200+ seat facility, which cost nearly 300 million dollars to build. The new stadium is situated on 31 acres of lakefront property near the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Center.

Firefly's Mini Golf: 18 holes of glow-in-the-dark funIf you're looking for something fun to do with the entire family, look no further than the Dillard's wing at Southpark Mall in Strongsville-- because that's where you'll find Firefly's Mini Golf. Whether you've got toddlers or teens, family outings are a snap at Firefly's.

Dave & Buster's: Family fun in WestlakeWhether you're looking for a little family fun, a great place for date night or the perfect setting for a birthday party, Dave & Buster's in Westlake is the ideal destination. It's safe to say that this versatile destination has something for everyone.

Zoombezi Bay: Brand new water rides at an old Columbus localeWelcome to Zoombezi Bay! This brand-new 22.7-acre water park on the site of the old Wyandot Lake amusement park boasts 15 fabulous water slides, a wave pool, an action river, a lazy river, private cabanas, a special pool for children’s pool and much, much more!

Carnegie Science Center: So fun, it's hard to remember it's educationalThe Carnegie Science Center is the most visited museum in Pittsburgh. Opened to much fanfare in 1991, the center features more than 250 hands-on exhibits that are both fun and educational for kids and adults alike.

Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage: Watching the story unfoldIt doesn't matter what your race, religion or background, the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage in Beachwood has a story to tell you.

Laser Quest: fun for kids aged 7 to 77Akron's Laser Quest isn't just fun for kids-- it's fun for grown-ups, too.

Carnegie Museum of Art: world-renowned in the heart of PittsburghLocated in Pittsburgh's historic Oakland neighborhood, the Carnegie Museum of Art is one of the United States' most renowned collections of contemporary art. Dedicated by Pennsylvania-born oil tycoon Andrew Carnegie in 1895, the art museum boasts 25 different galleries and hundreds-of-thousands of square feet of gallery space. The museum is arguably the oldest contemporary art museum in the country.

Andy Warhol Museum: Pittsburgh honors its greatest artistLocated on Pittsburgh's North Shore, the Andy Warhol Museum is a real treat for the eyes. From Warhol's easily-identifiable pop art pieces to a variety of interactive exhibits, the museum has a lot to offer eager visitors.

McCarthy's Alehouse: Fun and Friends in LakewoodLocated on the popular Detroit Avenue bar stretch in Lakewood, McCarthy's Alehouse is a long-time Lakewood institution. One of the busiest bars in the city, McCarthy's is well-known for its low drink prices, excellent bar food (think wings and burgers) and kickin' live music and deejays on weekends.

Anatomy Nightclub and Ultra Lounge: 'Europe in Cleveland'Anatomy Nightclub and Ultra Lounge is self-described as "Europe in Cleveland." This chic, trendy club is located in the popular Warehouse District in the old "Cloud 9" property.

Martini Park: A nighttime playground for grown upsLocated in the highly-regarded Easton Town Center lies Columbus' own Martini Park. A chic cocktail lounge that also serves up tasty tapas and decadent dinners, Martini Park is a favorite amongst the locals as the destination for evening fun and treats.

The Barking Spider: Good old fashioned funLive music and imported (or domestic) beer -- is there any better combination? The lovely folks at the Barking Spider Tavern in Cleveland don't think so, and they just might be correct.

Shooters on the Water: wine, dine and unwindShooters on the Water in Cleveland’s famous Flats District provides top-notch entertainment set apart by the locale of this landmark Cleveland establishment.

Traffic Nightclub a hotspot for dance fanaticsTraffic Nightclub in Cleveland's Warehouse District is sure to be a good time — especially if you love to dance.

The Donut Scene: It's all about the doughIt isn't often that one comes across an old-fashioned donut shop that serves up homemade treats the way they were meant to be served: without all the hype and heavy advertising that goes into those national chains. After all, at locally-owned and operated Donut Scene in Strongsville, there is no need for any of that -- because all Donut Scene needs to advertise its tasty, homemade donuts is, well, its tasty homemade donuts.

The Painted Penguin: Make it colorful, make it your ownLocated on the second floor of SouthPark Mall's Dillard's Wing, The Painted Penguin is a haven for parents and a utopia for little creative imaginations. Children can come in and paint their very own plaster masterpieces, then take them home so that you can proudly display them (and keep them in your memory box for years to come). From cats to dogs to footballs to cheerleaders and flowers, The Painted Penguin has a plaster casting that your child will want to make his or her own.

American Hot Rod Racer: Speed dreams for the young and oldIf RC cars are still your idea of euphoria, head down to American Hot Rod Racer inside Strongsville's SouthPark Mall. Build your own remote control race car and race it on the giant track -- it's speedy perfection at its finest. And don't worry -- American Hot Rod Racer never forgets the batteries. It's pretty much the perfect father-son (or even mother-daughter) activity. Bonding? Check. Cool cars? Check. A little friendly competition? Yep -- they've got that, too.

Fannie May Chocolates: Rich, creamy, divineUnless you're allergic to it, is there anyone who really doesn't like chocolate? Just think of it: tempting truffles, beautiful bon bons, creamy caramel squares and magnificent mints just lathered in rich, decadent chocolate. Is your mouth watering yet? If it is (and you know it is), head over to Fanny May Chocolates and Candies in Strongsville -- the ultimate experience in luxury chocolates.

Blackbird Baking Company: Artisan bread and pastries for all occasionsBlackbird Baking Company, a new bakery featuring homemade pastries and artisan breads, is located on Sloane Avenue in Lakewood. This bustling facility attracts customers with its glorious aromas -- fresh, yeasty French baguettes, buttery croissants and sweet, chewy peanut butter cookies -- all smelled long before they're seen.

Cookie Cutters: Hair cuts for kidsStep into Cookie Cutters, which is located on Pearl Road just east of SouthPark Mall, and you'll find a whole new type of styling salon: one that's geared to please even the youngest of clients. With brightly-colored walls, the promise of candy and balloons after a haircut, and the ability for the kids to pick out their favorite animated movie to watch as they get their locks trimmed, there is certainly no better place than Cookie Cutters for picky kids.

Rito's Italian Bakery and Cafe: Authentic treats since 1965If you love authentic cannoli, crisp angel wings, and fruit or cheese-filled kolaches, then Rito's Bakery is the perfect place for you. If you love mortadella, capicola, soprasatta and plump, juicy Italian olives, it's also the perfect place for you. At Rito's Italian Bakery and Cafe, there's something for everyone-- whether you're really Italian or not.

Olympia Ice Cream and Chocolates: Old time flavor, old time funWhether it's summer, spring, fall or winter, Olympia Chocolate and Ice Cream shop in Strongsville is the perfect place to induce hearty smiles and giggles aplenty for the whole family.

Donut Land: Fritters to fry cakesIf you love fresh, warm homemade donuts that are leagues away from what you'll find at the national donut chains, you'll love Donut Land's delicious donuts. Located on Pearl Road in Brunswick, Donut Land is an almost-vintage looking shop that'll certainly take you back -- way back.

Gypsy Beans and Baking Company: Breakfast, brunch, dinner or anytime at allLocated in the heart of the Gordon Square Arts District, Gypsy Beans and Baking Comany is the ideal place to enjoy hot coffee, cappuccino, lattes, teas, pastries or even gourmet sandwiches, soups and salads. Bring along your laptop for free WiFi, sit back and read the newspaper or simply enjoy conversation with friends in the comfort of this cozy coffeeshop and bistro.

Madcap Puppets bring fables to lifeClassic fables have never been more captivating — or hilarious — than in the Madcap Puppets’ Aesop’s Classic Fables, which will be featured at the Living Word Outdoor Drama on Aug. 8.

Madcap Puppets make a star of GalileoBring the family and settle on a blanket to enjoy Madcap Puppets’ zany show Look Out, Galileo! on Aug. 4 at the Mount Lebanon Public Library.

Medina County Fair: Summertime fun August 2-8Corn dogs. Funnel cakes. Gyros. French fries. Apple dumplings. Onion rings and deep-fried Oreo cookies. Can't you just smell them cooking now? Ahhh, that's the stuff. The fair must be in town!

Lorain County Fair: Come one, come all!It’s that time of year again—time for carousels, Ferris wheels, corn dogs, funnel cakes and midway games. That’s right—it’s Lorain County Fair time.

Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival: 28 years of music, dancing, Irish fare and moreWhether you're a full-blooded Irishman or you just think your cousin's friend's uncle's brother might have a cat named O'Malley who likes to eat corned beef , the Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival is a great place to bring your family to this summer. From Irish dancers to folk music and traditional Irish crafts, The Cleveland Irish Cultural Festival has something for both the Irish and the Irish at heart

Crosby, Stills and Nash play the Palace Sept. 11Crosby, Stills and Nash — the legendary folk rock group enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 — will perform at the Louisville Palace Theatre in downtown Louisville on Sept. 11.

Madcap Puppets make a star of GalileoDon’t miss Madcap Puppets’ zany show Look Out, Galileo! on July 17 at the Herrick Memorial Library.

Madcap Puppets bring Wild West to Boardman ParkHey, buckaroos! One of the highlights of Family Night at the Park on July 24 will be a Wild West-themed performance by Cincinnati-based Madcap Productions Puppet Theatre. They will be staging their zany puppet performance, Annie Oakley’s Wild West Show.

Avon Heritage Duct Tape Festival: Fun that sticks with youThe Avon Heritage Duct Tape Festival packs more fun than you ever thought this versatile adhesive product could deliver. From colorful contests and creative crafts that involve the terrific tape, the Avon Heritage Duct Tape Festival is sure to create memories that will stick with you for years to come.

The Farmers Market at Shaker Square: fresh, local produce and much, much more!The Farmers Market at Shaker Square, an extension of the North Union Farmers Market, takes place each Saturday morning from 8 a.m. to Noon in the middle of Shaker Square in the east and westbound lanes of Shaker Boulevard.

The Strip District: Small in space, big in funPittsburgh's Strip District packs a lot of activities in just a half of a square mile. This popular shopping and dining destination, which is situated just south of the Allegheny River along Smallman Street, Penn and Liberty Avenues.

Shaker Square: An East Side traditionShaker Square, located in the city of Shaker Heights on Cleveland's east side, is a bustling neighborhood filled with many acclaimed restaurants, distinct shops and art galleries. This age-old Cleveland tradition, which is characterized by its central Rapid-Transit trains that run through the center of town, is a paradise for shopaholics and foodies alike.

Little Italy: A timeless Cleveland neighborhoodCleveland's Little Italy neighborhood, located near the University Health System on the near-East side, is one of the city's most visited areas due to its large variety of authentic Italian restaurants, bakeries, art galleries, boutiques and pizzerias.

Coventry Village: Eclectic FunCleveland Heights' Coventry Village is possibly one of the most popular evening destinations in the city. A robust, artistic neighborhood with a variety of locally-owned shops, restaurants, bars, parks and recreational activities, Coventry is Cleveland's original eclectic neighborhood.

Goldie's Deli: Good, old-fashioned food at good, old-fashioned pricesLocated in Strongsville near the intersection of Pearl and Royalton Roads, Goldie's Deli and Restaurant is a staple for the city's residents. Co-owners Tony and Mounir Ina bring together home-cooked, delicious food in a laid-back atmosphere that is perfect for the whole family.

Frankie's Italian Cuisine: Where pasta meets perfectionWhen you dine in at Frankie's Italian Cuisine on Great Northern Boulevard in North Olmsted, you're taken back to old world Italy. The smells of sauteing garlic and melting butter combine in the air to tantalize your taste buds before you even sink your teeth into any of this popular west side restaurant's robust menu items.

Peppers Italian Restaurant: Locally-owned Italian entrees and pizzasIf you're in the mood for true, authentic Italian food in a family-friendly atmosphere, look no further than Peppers Italian Restaurant. Located on Detroit Avenue, Peppers is in the heart of Lakewood. Well-known for its robust Italian dishes at extremely reasonable prices, Peppers features a quaint, Italian countryside-themed dining room and quiet Italian music in the background.

Bahama Breeze: Where the Caribbean meets ClevelandLocated just off of I-271 in Orange Village (near Beachwood), Bahama Breeze restaurant and bar is a real breath of fresh, tropical air. Owned and operated by Darden Restaurants Incorporated (owners of the popular Lone Star Steakhouse, Red Lobster and Olive Garden chains), Bahama Breeze's Orange Village location is the only one in the State of Ohio.

The Blue Snapper Grill and Bar: A tropical getaway in Middleburg HeightsIt might be located just 15 minutes south of downtown Cleveland off of Interstate 71, but the Blue Snapper Grill and Bar in Middleburg Heights is decidedly tropical. In fact, just entering through the establishment's front door will have you swearing that you're on a vacation in the Florida Keys.

Casita de Lago: A different kind of Mexican fareLocated in charming downtown Berea, Casita de Lago restaurant is a Mexican food lover's paradise. This quaint establishment possesses the perfect amount of mom-and-pop-style charm with the cuisine of a more formal eatery. From Mexican classics like ground beef burritos with refried beans and spicy rice to finer favorites like the Pollo a la Crema-- grilled chicken breast strips with tender mushrooms in a creamy parmesan cheese sauce, Casita de Lago is not even a point short of perfecto.

Jack's Deli and Restaurant: A traditional Jewish deli in University HeightsJack's Deli and Restaurant, located on the east side in University Heights, is a long-time cleveland landmark for many. This small eatery makes up in flavor for what it lacks in size, but perhaps that's part of Jack's charm. In a sea of big-box franchises and typical bar and grill chains, Jack's Deli and Restaurant is a real breath of fresh air.

Brown Derby Roadhouse: Aged steaks and fresh seafood in a neighborhood near youIf you love thick, juicy steaks and other meaty favorite fresh off the grill, you'll love The Brown Derby Roadhouse. Walk through the front doors of this popular Middleburg Heights restaurant and let the delicious smells from the open grill make your mouth water.

Church Brew Works: The matrimony between beer and foodThe Church Brew Works in Pittsburgh is unlike anything else in the city—or perhaps even the state of Pennsylvania. In fact, it’s not often that writers get to use the word “unique” in their writings without being criticized for it—but there is no better word to describe this Catholic church-turned-restaurant and brewery; It truly is unique in every sense of the word.

Anthony's Ristorante and Wine Bar: Serving only the finest fare in Little ItalyLocated in one of Cleveland's most famous neighborhoods, Anthony's Ristorante and Wine Bar is pure romantic perfection. From the warmth of the candlelight to the soft lull of Italian music to the clinking of wine glasses, Anthony's is the ideal place to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or just any day at all.

Cuyahoga Community College: Where Futures BeginCuyahoga Community College is a large network of junior colleges located in Downtown Cleveland, Parma, Highland Hills and Westlake. With an annual enrollment of more than 30,000, it is the county's largest post-secondary educational institution.

John Carroll University: Educating for leadership and service since 1886Situated in the Cleveland suburb of University Heights, John Carroll University is a private Jesuit Catholic college with an undergraduate enrollment of 3200 and a postgraduate enrollment of 850. This small educational institution is divided into two facilities: the Boler School of Business and the College of Arts and Sciences. Offering 31 majors and 28 minors, John Carroll is a university that is held in very high regard.

Case Western Reserve UniversityCase Western Reserve University, situated about five miles east of downtown Cleveland, is a research university that is regarded as one of the country's best private educational facilities.

Sunnyledge Boutique Hotel and Tea Room: entertainment in a simpler timeThe Sunnyledge Boutique Hotel and Tea Room, located on Fifth Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh, provides an unparalleled experience that practically transports patrons to a simpler time in the nineteenth century.