Art Galleries and Farm Markets on the Back Roads and Beaches Route

Sure, with its charming rural roads and beautiful scenery, the Back Roads and Beaches Route is great all by itself. But what’s a real ride without a destination? Whether you're training hard on the big climbs or just out for a relaxing ride, everyone deserves a break. Here are just a few of the terrific attractions along the route:

Art Galleries

• The Firelands Assocation for the Visual Arts (FAVA) in Oberlin has just opened a brand new double exhibit. Claudia Berlinski presents Searching for the Underground Sea (works on paper) alongside Sherry Bradshaw’s Digging Beneath the Surface (installation). The exhibit runs through Oct. 4. FAVA is open Tuesday–Saturday, 11–5, and Sundays, 1-5.

The Work of Claudia Berlinski

The Work of Sherry Bradshaw

• And while in Oberlin, be sure to check out Ginko Gallery, the town’s combination art studio and gallery. Visitors can observe five resident artists in the creative process, as well as browse the gallery’s finished art. Ginko Gallery is open Tuesday-Saturday, 10-6, and Saturday, 12-4.

Farm Markets

• Miller’s Apple Hill: It might be a little early for apples, but Miller’s has a great Bulk Foods Store. Family-owned and -operated, Miller’s offers a large assortment of candies, snack mixes, meats, cheeses, flours, sugars, grains, and a whole lot more.

Miller's Apple Hill

• George Jones Farm and Nature Preserve: Owned by Oberlin College, this organic farm was founded as a community sustainable argiculture project. Browse the Farmer’s Market and learn more about this unique and innovative farm.
  
• Oberlin Market: This grocery/bakery/cafe serves Certified Organic and local, no spray foods. Stop in for a meal, or load up on fresh provisions for your ride.

Oberlin Market

• On any given Saturday, Farmer’s Markets can be found in Lorain (9 am to 1 pm), Wellington (9 am to 2 pm), Oberlin (9 am to 1 pm), and Vermilion (2 pm to 6 pm). Tons of fresh, local produce and other organic products.

There are many other sights and attractions along the route, including Lake Erie’s beaches, the Lorain County Metro Parks, multiple wineries, and exciting multi-sport adventures. For more information on these attractions, or anything else Back Roads and Beaches, check out the website, or become a fan of Back Roads and Beaches on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.