Shopping local, shopping active

 So, yes, the weather outside (at the moment) is a bit frightful. But for active folks who would rather be out logging in miles on the road, this is a great time to check off some items from holiday shopping lists. If you're like me, not crazy about the mall...you can spend some time shopping locally and staying true to a love of cycling and all things active. I mean... shopping can be a marathon of sorts right? Here are a few places around the Back Roads and Beaches route to shop for active and truly unique gifts and have a great afternoon doing it. I've tried to outline a few local shopping itineraries that include some other stops that make shopping fun and create a fun, festive afternoon or evening.

Near Avon Lake:

Las Cazuelas--Yum!

Marty's Cycle Center,  located at 453 Avon Belden Rd. in Avon Lake has lots of great cycling gifts. How about a gift certificate for a precision bike fitting? Look for the lighted bike out front. And located right around the corner from Marty's you can get your Mexican food fix at Las Cazuelas Mexican Restaurant.

When you're finished there, right down the way are John Christ and Klingshirn Wineries. Pick up some local vino for gifts while you sip some of the local varieties.

Strip Steakhouse, photo by Holly Miller

Not far from here you can also check out Old Avon Village which is decorated and reminiscent of a more old fashioned holiday. Old Avon Village features various boutiques and a bakery. There are also several great gourmet eateries here. Strip Steakhouse will be having a happy hour buffet from 3–6pm daily through Dec. 17. Check out the map below which includes some other possible stops for an Avon/Avon Lake itinerary:

Near Oberlin

Downtown Oberlin

 If you're an art lover or shopping for one, you won't leave Oberlin empty-handed. There are many galleries and gallery shops that have all sorts of unique and unusual items.

Uncommon Object

Uncommon Objects, Ginko Gallery and Riverdog are just a few. You can also find unique jewelry, home furnishings, imported African items and more. Don't forget Inspired. We featured them a few months ago in the blog. Another great opportunity to check-off gifts for hard-to-buy-for people on your list. If you're interested in local history and the Underground Railroad you can learn about them at the Oberlin Heritage Center. And when you're finished with your tour, stop in at the gift shop and pick up a book or two to share. While you are in the area, check out the progress of the Oberlin Gasholder Building Restoration. The Gasholder Building is the future home of the Oberlin Underground Railroad Center and park and ride facility. It will be a wonderful service to visiting cyclists.

Future home of the Oberlin Underground
Railroad Center

If you're looking for active gifts or gear, try Swerve Bike Shop or Molnar Outdoor. Both locally owned shops have friendly staff willing to answer all your questions. 

When you're ready for a break and something to nibble on, I'd recommend the Oberlin Inn for a fancy, festive sit down meal, The Feve for a burger (beef or vegan) and a beer or Quick and Delicious for some down-home comfort food.

I've put together a map to make it easier to formulate your itinerary:



These are just a few suggestions in keeping with our active spirit and local theme. Hopefully you'll find exploring these local businesses and organizations as exciting and fun as we do. You'll find many other maps and suggestions by visiting the Visit Lorain County website.