Here in Ohio, we have a little slice of Old World wine culture etched into our landscape. It can be found in the Northeast Ohio countryside, tucked away roughly about an hour from Cleveland. The Grand River Valley, as it is known, benefits from Lake Erie's thermal qualities. As its warmer airs cascade over the counters of this region, it fends off frost and prolongs the growing season, thus creating a micro-climate that allows grapes to thrive. This is great news for wine lovers, as a number of wineries and boutique vineyards thrive in the dreamy Ohio wine country. And, if you're planning a trip to enjoy the flavors of this diverse region, there's a darling lodge near Cleveland that offers seclusion and peace. Prepare to experience the luxurious earthy tones of wine country with your closest friends, because this retreat is calling your name.
If you're a wine lover, Kodiak Falls Lodge is the weekend getaway of your dreams.
This dreamy 6,200-square-foot lodge is overflowing with amenities. You'll love cozying up by the indoor fireplaces or the two-story fireplace in the pavilion.
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This 5-bedroom lodge overlooks 35 acres of lovely land, and it can comfortably entertain up to 20 guests.
Gather your friends and prepare for a gourmet getaway, because you'll love preparing charcuterie boards in the custom kitchen and picnicking out in this gorgeous landscape. On warm days, you'll appreciate the opportunity to take a dip in the swimming pond. When its cooler out, you might choose to play ping pong or groove to jukebox tunes inside.
This dreamy lodge is about an hour's drive from Cleveland, but it is mere minutes from wine country.
While the lodge and its surroundings are totally therapeutic, nothing will melt away stress quite like a day spent among the hills and valleys of Ohio's gorgeous wine country.
Debonné Vineyards is just 25 minutes from your cozy quarters.
Debonné Vineyards is the largest estate winery in Ohio, and it is absolutely enchanting. Their iconic chalet is surrounded by 175 acres of vineyards, and it was the first Ohio winery to also open a vineyard. You can learn more here.
If you're ready to sip wine by a cozy fireplace, Laurentia Vineyard & Winery is a must on your weekend wine trip. Its cabin-like atmosphere is as welcoming as the lodge you'll be staying in. With 43 acres of vines producing tons of grapes each year, wine lovers will feel right at home during their visit to this vineyard.
Maple Ridge Vineyard, on the other hand, is only about 10 minutes away.
Intimate, family-owned, and endlessly charming, Maple Ridge Vineyard is a great place to visit if you are a fan of European-style wines. The grapes here are of French origin, but the quaint atmosphere of the winery is so delightfully Ohio in operation. You'll cherish your visit to this family-owned farm!
Never been to Grand River Cellars? It's also around 10 to 15 minutes away from Kodiak Falls Lodge, so this is the perfect chance to visit.
Wine pairs perfectly with live music, and Grand River Cellars has grown to include live performances each Thursday through Sunday. Since 1976, this winery and restaurant has been a fan favorite, but it has enjoyed renewed energy since it was purchased and restored in 2005. If you visit during the warmer months, take advantage of their gorgeous outdoor patio!
After a day of adventures in the Ohio wine country, you'll enjoy unwinding back at Kodiak Falls Lodge's custom waterfall or fishing in the lake.
In addition to these features, nature lovers can also hike on the site's trails or just relax in the great outdoors. Alternatively, you and your guests can test your competitive streak at the on-site arcade.
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This incredible retreat is an effortless commute from Cleveland, but the local landscape rivals the flavors of more famous wine countries throughout the nation and internationally.
Are you craving a stay in the Ohio wine country? You can find pricing information here.
Northeast Ohio's wine country is one of the more underrated escapes in the state, and it produces libations that rival those produced by more famous grape-farming communities. Which local winery are you most enthused to visit?
If you're longing for local flavors closer to Cleveland, you should embark on a local wine and waterfalls road trip.
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...
Summer is vacation season, but it's easy to let the warmer months get away from you. Fortunately, there's plenty to do in and around Cleveland, even if you're looking for a little getaway. From farms to mansions and everything in between, there's a getaway for every type of vacationer in Northeast Ohio. And if you're looking for a last-minute Airbnb near Cleveland, you're in luck: there are some beautiful options just a short drive away from home.
Chippewa Lake is such a fun getaway, and it's one of my favorite parks to haunt in Medina County. At this Chippewa Lake Airbnb, you'll get to soak up all the quaint countryside vibes right on the water. With in-unit laundry, beach access, kayaks to take out on the water, and a firepit, hammock, and grill for outdoor enjoyment, you'll adore this cozy little getaway for up to six guests.
If you've never gone glamping, you're in for a treat. It's like camping, but you'll enjoy glam amenities like a real cushy bed, electricity, and easy access to showers. This tent in Peninsula is a great way to experience this unique type of camping, and it's right in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It's a great place to stay if you're planning on hiking or attending a concert at Blossom Music Center, and a comfortable king size bed makes this a romantic getaway for two.
Another of my favorite Medina County parks can be found in Hinckley, which is also where this cozy cabin Airbnb is located. It can sleep around 16 guests, as it's a spacious retreat with 8 queen beds. Located right to Ledge Lake in Hinckley Reservation, you'll enjoy the quaint countryside of the area, plus amenities like a hot tub, pool table, an indoor fireplace and outdoor firepit, and a beautiful and private landscape.
Ever heard of Dundee Falls? Well, this dreamy treehouse Airbnb is right by it! This is truly a fairytale escape, as you walk across a 40-foot-long swinging bridge to enter the treehouse. There's a queen bed and a day bed, and you'll love sitting on the deck with a fire going as you listen to the sounds of cicadas filling the woods. This is truly a rural escape, as the winding drive back will reveal, so the treehouse is an excellent spot to take the family to reconvene with nature.
Now this is one the kids are going to love! You can stay in a yurt at a 75-acre farm in Thompson, Ohio, complete with three beds, a comfy sitting area, oodles of rugs, and cute decorations. Critters like goats will be seen around the farm, and a play area makes this an ideal escape for little ones. Have you even seen the stars over the rural countryside? Well, after you do, you just might not want to return home. This dreamy getaway is a summertime favorite!
I'm obsessed with tiny homes. The way designers make these things spacious and comfortable is fascinating to me, and this tiny home in Loudonville is no exception. Inside, you'll find two beds, high-speed internet, a smart TV, air conditioning, and all the amenities you'd expect from any comfortable getaway. Plus, it's just minutes from Downtown Loudonville and Mohican State Park, so you can soak up the small town or nature vibes during your stay. Grill outside and enjoy a fire under the stars to make your trip especially memorable.
Why not gather 16 of your closest friends and steal away to a mansion for the weekend?! This charming escape in North Lawrence is 10,000-feet of pure bliss. Nestled away on 30 acres, it's a convivial getaway complete with 11 beds, an indoor pool area, a movie theater, a home gym, and a wine cellar. There's also a sauna, hot tub, gourmet kitchen... truly, what doesn't this space have? Fish in the pond, put the tennis court to good use, or read a good book while the kids use the playground. Whatever you decide, you'll love this getaway.
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Booking a last-minute Airbnb near Cleveland just might become your new favorite vacation memory. Each of these stays has its own distinct style, so there's truly something for everyone amidst this selection.
