The greater Springfield area got a new feather — feathers, really — in its cap.
Several businesses in the area — six in Bellefontaine alone — were named among some of the best places to visit in the state, according to the 2018 Best in Ohio listing released by Ohio Magazine. Readers and visitors to the publication’s website were invited to vote on the places they thought were the best places to visit in the state. Here’s what to know about some that made the list.
Best Ice Cream: Young’s Jersey Dairy
Seeing Young's on the list may not come as a surprise, especially considering the local favorite recently won another award from the Best in Springfield competition. The spot, located at 6880 Springfield-Xenia Rd. in Yellow Springs, offers a lot more than just great ice cream, though. A fully functioning dairy farm, batting cages and even a year-round restaurant also operate on the property, making it a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike.
Best Canoe/Kayak Rentals: Birch Bark Canoe Livery
If you’re looking for a good time on the water, look no father than Birch Bark Canoe Livery. The location, found at 1455 River Rd. in Urbana, offers a five-mile and a 10-mile course to canoers of all ages. The facility offers its own boat rentals but allows patrons to bring their own. It also offers other opportunities including camping. If you plan to visit, reservations are highly recommended, as spots for both courses go quickly. Price ranges for the trips start from $15-$22.
Best Farmer’s Market: Logan County Farmer’s Market
If you’re looking for lots of variety in one central spot, look no further than the Logan County Farmer’s Market. The market, which runs from 8:30 a.m. to noon on Saturdays from May to September at the corner of Detroit Street and Chillicothe Avenue in downtown Bellefontaine, offers merchandise from only local farms and other businesses. It also offers a special program for residents with SNAP benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) to help them buy more local produce.
Best Coffee Shop/Roaster: Native Coffee Co.
Winans may have taken the top spot in Springfield recently, but Native Coffee Co., located at 200 W. Columbus Ave. in Bellefontaine, just took the top spot in Ohio. The coffeehouse prides itself on its fair trade, organic beans sourced from Columbus, as well as the tasty treats it provides for its guests. With the friendly atmosphere and charming location, it has made itself fairly popular in a short amount of time.
Best Burger: Don’s Downtown Diner
This local favorite, located at 208 S. Main St. in Bellefontaine, has locals and visitors alike singing its praises on Yelp. Specializing in burgers and all things meat, Don’s also features some menu items that you wouldn’t expect to see anywhere else, like the PB&J burger (yes, you read that correctly). Don’t worry if you’re a light eater: two sizes are available on most items.
Other Winners for Best in Ohio:
• Best Bike Trail: Simon Kenton Trail, serving Clark, Champaign and Logan County
• Best Outdoor Patio Dining: Brewfountaine, Bellefontaine
• Best Food Truck: Dine&Dash, Urbana
• Best Ohio-Made Candy: Marie's Candies, West Liberty
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