Like it or not, stores tend to come and go as time passes, even the ones that are well-loved. Today, with the overwhelming popularity of online shopping, we are sure to see even more of our favorites disappear. Thankfully, a few nostalgic stores from our childhood in Cincinnati remain, but most of those on our list have gone off to beloved Cincinnati store heaven. If you grew up in Cincinnati, these 11 stores will undoubtedly stir up all kinds of fond memories.
The H & S Pogue Company, commonly called Pogue's, was long known as Cincinnati's finest department store. It was the type of place that you would dress up to visit, enjoy a special meal at one of the classy dining options and end the evening with ice cream on the famous bridge, overlooking the crowds below.
As a Cincinnati kid, birthdays were extra special thanks to this magical little key that would come in the mail, addressed to the birthday boy or girl. You would take this key to one of the two local Johnny's Toys toy stores and open the door to the magnificent castle that was filled with toys and surprises. Thankfully, this past spring the tradition was brought back to life by Tech Castle, which took over the former Latonia, Kentucky Johnny's Toys location.
Once located on Harrison Avenue in Cheviot, this Frank's was THE westside destination for plants and craft items. If it were still open today, it would surely be a Pinterest-lover's dream, but unfortunately we will have to relive its charm only through our memories.
As Cincinnati's first department store, it is probably one of the most recognized and beloved names of stores from the Queen City's past. Thankfully, the name and historic building still live on today with the creation of modern lofts, but it will always be remembered for its classic department store nostalgia and, of course, it’s magic at Christmas time.
Swallen's was a chain of retail shops that originated right here in Cincinnati. The store had just about everything and was part of most Cincinnatians' weekly shopping trips for decades, until the stores all closed in 1995.
Be honest...how many hours did you spend browsing the CD collection at Media Play? Or maybe you saved up your money to buy the latest video game. Media Play, of course, became less relevant with the rise of digital music, but we can still reminisce about the time spent wandering its music-filled aisles.
Gold Circle is one of those places that when you mention it to someone who grew up in Cincinnati, they'll respond, "Oh my, I forgot about that place!" But then you'll spend the next 30 minutes reliving memories of shopping at this beloved department store.
Whenever you walk into Aglamesis on Madison, that sweet, sugary smell takes you right back to childhood. Their delicious ice cream and candies are the stuff of dreams and generations continue to make this sweet shop a part of growing up in Cincinnati.
When you're a kid, there's nothing better than peaking in the windows of a small toy store, trying to catch a glimpse of the treasures inside. But the inside of King Arthur's Court Toys, also on Madison, holds endless childhood memories and continues to be the source of them today.
Thankfully, you can still relive your novelty store memories at one of the few remaining Cappel's locations throughout Cincinnati. In business for over 70 years, Cappel's has long been Cincinnati's favorite costume shop and it's always been a childhood destination to check out the various masks, costumes, and accessories.
Van Leunens was yet another one of those stores that just seemed to have it all. I have fond memories of shopping at the location on the corner of West Fork and Cheviot, and was always fascinated by the escalator inside the store. If you need a taste of this 80s nostalgia, check out the video below of a Van Leunens commercial from 1989. There's even a shout out to the popular "Door Store" that came right to our front doors.
A few of these stores remain today for more generations of Cincinnati kids. Hopefully they'll be around for decades to come. Did your favorite nostalgic Cincinnati store make our list? Which ones did we leave out? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments, and if you have any old photos, we'd love to see those, too!
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And for more photos from Cincinnati's history, check out our previous article here.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Have you ever asked a friend, "where did you get that?" and they answer, "Oh, from this cute local shop that makes the most unique things!" This very well may have happened in Cincinnati, as we have several wonderful local shops and businesses that handcraft everything from clothing to decor to toys. Cincinnati is creative and enjoys supporting locals, which is why The City Flea was started in 2011. The City Flea in Cincinnati is a unique day and nighttime market that gives you the chance to visit all of those cute local shops in one beautiful location. Shop 'til you drop at The City Flea, one of the best flea markets in Ohio:
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The City Flea in Cincinnati is held almost monthly throughout the year in historic Washington Park.
It began as a way to showcase local creators and businesses and has grown to an outdoor market that includes hundreds of vendors during each event. The location of the market is definitely one of the highlights, as Music Hall and other beautiful buildings provide a scenic backdrop.
The list of dates for The City Flea can be found on its website, linked below.
This is the only time the event is held at night and the atmosphere cannot be beat. As charming as a daytime flea market is, strolling through under twinkling lights is straight out of a Hallmark movie.
The same large number of vendors generally attend the Holiday Market and it's a great chance to finish up (or get started on) that gift shopping list... all while supporting local makers and entrepreneurs!
It may seem far off, but this time of year will be here before you know it. In the meantime, you can certainly visit the market on one of its upcoming dates.
If you're wondering what to expect to find at The City Flea, the answer is just about any and everything.
Vendors offer multiple items and you won't find products that are sold by the thousands around the country; these are local shops and families that often hand-make their goods or offer vintage and repurposed items that are full of one-of-a-kind character.
Bring the kids along to any of the markets, as there are plenty of items just for them and the park is filled activities for the whole family.
Make a day of it and grab a meal at a nearby food truck or one of the many delicious restaurants in OTR. Also consider a walk over to Findlay Market for more browsing, shopping, and tasting.
The purpose of The City Flea in Cincinnati is to bring the city together to support and celebrate all things local.
You'll find people from all over the city and of all ages at this outdoor market. Mark the 2019 dates on your calendar and grab a few friends to shop 'til you drop at our city's incredible day and nighttime market.
The City Flea in Cincinnati offers several chances throughout the year to shop local and find those unique items for yourself or for gifts to loved ones. It's a great opportunity to support local businesses and people with creative minds and big hearts for our city. Have you shopped 'til you dropped at The City Flea? Will you visit one of the upcoming markets or the nighttime version in December? Let us know in the comments!
For more information on The City Flea, visit its website here and follow along on Facebook here.
Washington Park Address: 1230 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
And for more of the best flea markets in Cincinnati, check out our previous article here.
