Like most Midwest states, Ohio’s shopping scene is fairly predictable. Any town of size has at a couple of strip malls, while the larger cities boast an indoor shopping mall or two. The state is well-known for its craftsmanship, taken to its highest levels in the Amish communities of Holmes County. This region in the central eastern part of Ohio is home to America’s biggest Amish group, and the little towns in this county are always exciting places to hunt for handmade goods like quilts, pottery, furnishings, and other lovely home décor.
Antiques are another great product to hunt for in Ohio. This state has been around a long time, and its residents have left behind some real treasures for those who know what to look for. The Riverfront Antique Mall in New Philadelphia is one of the best one-stop shopping destinations in Ohio for antiques and Americana memorabilia. Its 84,000 square-foot warehouse is home to around 350 different vendors selling all kinds of items.
The capital Columbus is arguably the best big city in Ohio for shopping. It has some very impressive venues like the indoor-outdoor Easton Town Center, an upscale spot with dozens of major retailers, restaurants, entertainment sites, and some pleasant outdoor atmosphere. More independent shopping can be found in the Short North Arts District along High Street, where eclectic boutiques trump brand names. Big savings are often on hand at the 160 factory outlet stores in the Prime Outlets at Jeffersonville, a 40-minute drive outside of Columbus.