First of all, it feels pretty guilt-free. Yes, I’m spending money, but I’m also doing it in a way that will directly impact my community. Secondly, buying things from local shops saves time and headaches and helps you avoid shipping delays.

Lastly, for all of the procrastinators like myself, you can visit these shops right up through Christmas and still find great gifts for the kids in your life. But that’s enough chatting. Let’s get into the fun stuff!

Big Fun

Specializing in vintage toys, Big Fun is always a great place to get a little shopping done. Whether you’re on the hunt for your favorite childhood toy to pass on to your own kids or you are searching for something for those “kids at heart” friends or family members, you can probably find what you’re looking for at Big Fun.
Location: 672 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

Dublin Toy Emporium

Dublin Toy Emporium sells a wide variety of toys, from puzzles to puppets and just about everything in between. Located in Historic Dublin, the Toy Emporium focuses on providing high-quality, mind-expanding, safe, and fun toys for all ages.
Location: 28 North High Street, Dublin OH, 43017

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Cub Shrub

Cub Shrub is legit one of the coolest shops for kids around. Started by Tiger Tree owners, Cub Shrub has toys, puzzles, gifts, clothes, books, and more. The kids will love shopping there as much as you do and it’s really a one-stop shop around the holidays. You can grab big gifts, stocking stuffers, gift bundles, and all sorts of other goodies.
Location: 3301 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202

Learning Express

With three locations around central Ohio, Learning Express is the definition of convenient. There are gifts for kiddos of all ages and it’s easy to find gifts by interest or age group on their website. When I mentioned convenience, I wasn’t kidding. You can have any gifts purchased at Learning Express gift-wrapped for free!
Location: Multiple locations.

Jamison & Bexley

Located in Westerville, Jamison & Bexley has some incredible finds for babies, young children, and mothers. With clothing (sized Newborn through 5T) fun and functional learning activities, stuffed animals, and more, it’s the perfect place to pick up holiday gifts for all the young kiddos in your life.
Location: Shop online here or in person inside of Painted Tree Boutiques at 59 Meadow Park Ave. Lewis Center, OH, 43035

The post 5 Columbus Toy Stores Where You Can Shop Locally appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Whether you are working on an old restoration project or you simply enjoy reusing items for environmental benefits, antique and vintage shops can offer tons of variety.

Here in Columbus, we are lucky to have several shops where you could literally spend the entire day getting lost in aisles of old doorknobs, vintage jewelry, and beautifully made furniture.

Here’s where you can find the best antique and vintage items around the city.

Scott Antique Markets

About: The Scott Antique Market is held at the Ohio Expo Center once a month, from November through March. It’s a massive market with both antique and vintage finds. Admission to the market is free, but you will have to pay $5 for parking.
Location: Ohio Expo Center, 717 E 17th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211
Website: Scott Antique Market

Flower Child

About: Flower Child has one of the best mid-century collections around. It’s a great place to grab both home goods and clothes and just about everything in between. On the scale of vintage to antique, it definitely leans more vintage.
Location: 233 E 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Website: Flower Child Vintage

Greater Columbus Antique Mall

About: With antiques that are hundreds of years old to cool vintage finds from the 1980s, the Greater Columbus Antique Mall is a great place to spend an afternoon perusing. The building is five whole floors of antique heaven plus it’s just a short adventure from some of the best cafes in German Village if you need to refuel on your shopping spree.
Location: 1045 S High St Columbus, OH 43206
Website: Greater Columbus Antique Mall (Facebook)

Eclectiques Antique Mall

About: Eclectiques Antique Mall has some of the best antique vendors in town all under one roof. The vibes are impeccable, the selection is fantastic, and most importantly, it’s always fun to shop there.
Location: 265 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Website: Eclectiques Antique Mall

Columbus Architectural Salvage

About: Columbus Architectural Salvage feels like visiting an antique gold mine. Whether you’re looking to restore an old project or you just want to incorporate antique and vintage items into your new projects, CAS is an absolute must-visit. It’s 10,000 square feet, very organized, and it’s a great store to spend time exploring.
Location: 1580 Clara St, Columbus, Ohio 43211
Website: Columbus Architectural Salvage

The Brass Hand

About: Inspired by the Arizona desert, The Brass Hand describes itself as “an experiential gift and plant shop in the heart of Columbus”. While vintage home goods may not be the main feature of the shop, you can certainly find some unique items here. Plus, you can pick up a cactus or two, which is pretty great if you ask me.
Location: 3327 N High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Website: The Brass Hand

Heritage Square Antique Mall

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About: If you’re looking to get lost in a sea of antiques, Heritage Square Antique Mall is the place for you. It can be a little overwhelming on your first visit, but I promise that the treasures within are totally worth it. There are so many vendors to choose from, but I recommend stopping by Midwest Vintiques booth for some unique, perfectly curated goods.
Location: 1865 Channingway Center Dr, Columbus, OH 43232
Website: Heritage Square Antique Mall

Grandview Mercantile

About: Grandview Mercantile is one of the best antique stores in Central Ohio. Offering antiques, vintage items, and fine home furnishings, you could wander around the 22,000-square-foot showroom for hours. They really do have a little bit of everything at Grandview Mercantile. Plus, you can easily shop online!
Location: 1489 Grandview Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
Website: Grandview Mercantile

MORE LIKE THIS: The Best Thrift Stores In Columbus

The post Where To Find The Best Vintage And Antique Treasures Around Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Oven manuals, sports biographies, you name it. Any book that sparks the smallest interest in my mind. From the literary classics to 3-hour beach reads. If it has a decent plot, I won’t put it down.

I’ve always preferred to own my books instead of borrowing them.

I’m tough on books. I bend their covers and corner their pages. I highlight things and spill my coffee on them. It’s better for everyone if I just purchase upfront.

Luckily, Columbus is home to some really fantastic independent bookstores where I can feed my reading habit and spend money locally. We’ve rounded up the city’s bookshops here in one convenient list, so you can get out there and start building your own personal library.

Cover to Cover

About: Cover to Cover is a great option for the young readers in your life. In operation since 1980, they have helped generations of children in Clintonville cultivate their love of reading. With over 20,000 titles, Cover to Cover specializes in Children/Youth books. The shop has hosted authors such as Newbery winner Kwame Alexander, Rae Carson, Diane Rappaport, and many more.
Location: 2116 Arlington Ave, Columbus, OH 43221
Website: Cover to Cover

Beanbag Books

Gramercy Books

Gramercy Books in Bexley has something for readers of all ages. Not only do they have great books for sale, but they also make literature a way of life. Gramercy offers book clubs, author events, and storytime. From young adult to nonfiction, Gramercy has you covered.
Location: 2424 E Main St, Bexley, OH 43209
Website: Gramercy Books

Prologue Books

Located in the heart of the Short North Arts District, Prologue Bookshop is an urban oasis for book lovers. The store features a variety of genres and authors, which is perfect for those days when you know that you want to read something new, but you aren’t quite sure what.
Location: 841 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Prologue Books

The Bibliophile Candle Co.

Two Dollar Radio

Two Dollar Radio is one of the coolest, most unique bookstores in the city. Located on Parsons Ave. on the city’s south end, Two Dollar Radio is an independent bookseller, a cafe, a bar, and an event space, all wrapped into one. Two Dollar Radio is also a printer, giving independent authors an opportunity to see their books sold in stores. So go grab a book and a drink, and enjoy your afternoon.
Location: 1124 Parsons Ave, Columbus, OH 43206
Website: Two Dollar Radio

The Book Loft

About: In the heart of German Village lies The Book Loft. This 32 room bookstore is one of the best independently owned bookstores I’ve ever been to. The fascinating maze leads you through every topic imaginable with most of the rooms covering different topics or themes. My favorite part about The Book Loft is that it’s open until 11 PM, perfect for literary night-owls like myself.
Location: 631 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43206
Website: The Book Loft

Blue Couch Bookshop

About: Just steps from Grandview Heights, Blue Couch Bookshop feels like the kind of place where you could lose track of time. The shop is woman-owned and thoughtfully curated, with shelves full of new titles, children’s favorites, and literary gifts. True to its name, there’s an actual blue couch waiting for readers who want to sink in and stay awhile.
Location: 1445 Grandview Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
Website: Blue Couch Bookshop

Storyline Bookshop

Birdie Books

The post 10 Wonderful Independent Bookshops In Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Full of salvaged items from historic properties, nearly every item is one of a kind. The store opened in 2006, so it’s well established, but it definitely flies under the radar. Most people find their way to the stores hallowed halls on a quest to replace random items in their early 1900s homes.

Whether you’re on the hunt for brass door knobs, a clawfoot bathtub, or old-school metal vent covers, Columbus Architectural Salvage probably has it. We took a stroll through the store earlier this week with no specific goal in mind, and let me tell you, we came across some serious treasure.

Antique Mailbox: $225

In a dream world, I’d but this and put it in my stunning home library. I think it could be used for some sort of card catalogue system, or alternatively, I could just leave myself whimsical notes in the various boxes. The detail on each box was beautiful and I can’t help but think that, whimsy libraries aside, this thing has some unlimited organizational potential.

Solid Wood Bar: $30k

Okay, so this item is definitely on the “dream house” list. I don’t even think the picture could possibly do it justice. The bar is massive and it feels like it came straight out of an old manor or castle and if I had my way, that’s exactly where it would be headed.

Door knobs: various prices

It was so fun to admire the huge variety of antique and vintage door knobs available. Of course, these are practical purchases if, like me, you live in a 100+ year old house with funky door knobs. But I also think they could great for all kinds of fun design projects. Am I the only one who can see the vision for a door knob coat rack?

Vintage Typewriter: $95

When I turned the corner and saw this beauty, it was hard to keep moving through the store. I’m a sucker for a vintage typewriter and I think it would be an absolute slay in any office space. It was genuinely tough to leave this behind, but I knew that I didn’t really have the budget to overhaul my entire home office in order to give it a place of honor, so I left it to find it’s forever home elsewhere.

Doors for days: Various prices

If you’re on the hunt for a door of any kind at all, I can’t recommend stopping by the store enough. We saw everything from massive antique barn doors to delicate glass partition doors. I probably took one million door pictures, but I’ll leave you with this huge salvaged horse stall door that comes from the old Darby Dan farm.

Bellows: $15

I was so obsessed with this find. I have absolutely no use for bellows, as I have no working fireplace, but the idea that someone attached a photo of a man in their life to a device that literally blows hot air… it was just too funny not to include here.

I could seriously go on and on and on about how many great items there were on display at the shop. Even if you don’t have anything in particular in mind, it’s such an interesting way to spend an hour, perusing the merchandise and really thinking about each item’s individual history.

Every piece in the store tells a story and the most exciting part is that you could give them all a new chapter.

Columbus Architectural Salvage is located at 1580 Clara St, just behind the Ohio State Fairgrounds. They’re open to the public Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Please note that all items are sold as-is and all items are final sale.

All photos by Chelsea Wiley

The post Your Guide To The Unique And Marvelous Columbus Architectural Salvage appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Central Ohio has a wide variety of Farmers’ Markets where you can buy anything from local delicacies to international foods. Buying your produce and other artisan goods locally is a great way to support our local economy and also reduce your own carbon footprint.

Plus, going to the farmers’ market is just plain fun. Now, who is ready to indulge in a little locally-grown goodness?

Bexley Farmers’ Market

Canal Winchester Farmers’ Market

Clintonville Farmers’ Market

The Dublin Market

Westgate Farmers’ Market

Grove City Farmers’ Market

Hilliard Farm Market

New Albany Farmers’ Market

Upper Arlington Farmers Market

Uptown Westerville Farmers’ Market

Worthington Farmers’ Market

The post The Cream of the Crop: Columbus’ Can’t-Miss Farmers Markets appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Columbus Yard Sale season may be unofficial, but it’s one of the best times of the year. Some of my favorite unique items in my home came from community yard sales, and I fully anticipate adding something new to my collection this year.

Whether you’re hunting for vintage home goods, books, quirky art, or just love the thrill of the find, yard sales are where it’s at. Plus, there’s something satisfying about knowing you scored a deal and helped give something a second life.

Now, who’s ready to haggle? It’s yard sale season, friends!

Worthington PreCycle Day

This event is all about giving pre-loved items a fresh start. Worthington PreCycle Day is a massive citywide sale, and it’s a great one to kick off the season with.

Merion Village Yard Sale

If you like browsing through blocks of unique finds while walking down tree-lined brick streets, Merion Village is your vibe. With tons of houses participating, it’s a great mix of items.

Grandview Heights Great Garage Sale

Bring your walking shoes—and maybe a wagon. This one is massive, with homes participating across the neighborhood. It’s known for high-quality furniture and decor finds.

Bexley Community For Sale & Freecycle Weekend

This one’s for the eco-conscious thrifter. In addition to regular yard sale goodies, you’ll find a lot of free items on the curb—yes, free. It’s all about reusing, recycling, and giving your neighbors’ cast-offs a second chance.

Village Valuables

Hosted in one of the city’s most historic and walkable neighborhoods, Village Valuables is a total experience. With more brick-lined streets and centuries-old homes, the shopping is just as good as the people-watching.

Short North Neighborhood Yard Sale

This isn’t just a yard sale, it’s a six-neighborhood-spanning treasure hunt. Victorian Village, Italian Village, Harrison West, and more all come together for a big day of sales, snacks, and strolling.

Trash to Treasure Yard Sale in Olde Towne East

This beloved event lives up to its name. Expect to find everything from mid-century furniture to offbeat art and fashion. It’s a great one for vintage lovers and serious bargain hunters alike.

Yard Sale Pro Tips:

• Bring cash. Not everyone takes cards or apps like Venmo.
• Get there early for the best stuff, or come later for better deals.
• Carry a tote or backpack. Easier than juggling armfuls of finds.
• Don’t be shy, get your haggle on! It’s part of the fun.

We’ll keep updating this list as more sales are announced, so be sure to check back!

Featured image by Clem Onojeghuo on Unsplash

The post If You Love a Good Bargain, Don’t Miss These Columbus Yard Sales appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Whether we are looking for furniture or adding to our wardrobe, I tend to go thrifting before purchasing new. This habit was born for purely financial reasons in my early twenties. I was living on an extremely tight budget and I was always looking for ways to leave more money for experiences instead of items.

As time has passed, I have grown to enjoy buying items second-hand, making me feel like I’m doing something tangible to help the environment. The fast fashion industry has had massive impacts on the planet and the people making the clothes. It’s lovely living in a place that has some fantastic thrift stores.

Out Of The Closet

I love shopping for a good cause and that’s exactly what you’re doing when you make purchases at Out of the Closet. $.96 of every dollar collected by the store goes directly to fund AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s HIV/AIDS programs and services. Additionally, the store offers HIV testing to anyone, regardless of their ability to pay. The store carries clothes, books, housewares, and more.
Location: 1230 N High St, Columbus, OH 43201
Website: Out Of The Closet

Clothes Mentor

Clothes Mentor specifically focuses on designer clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry, and other accessories for women. It’s a great shop to visit if you’re updating your professional wardrobe. One of my favorite things about Clothes Mentor is the consistency of the quality of items they sell. You will likely find like-new pieces that can save you big bucks. You can also sell items to Clothes Mentor if you’re in the mood to overhaul your wardrobe.
Location: Multiple locations
Website: Clothes Mentor

Grandview Mercantile

Okay so let’s be real: Grandview Mercantile isn’t exactly what you think of when you hear the words “thrift store.” The shop focuses on antiques and fine home consignment and their 20k+ square foot showroom is full of amazing treasures. From unique pieces of furniture to amazing jewelry items, Grandview Mercantile is the kind of place you can get lost in for hours.
Location: 1489 Grandview Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
Website: Grandview Mercantile

One More Time

One More Time has both a furniture/home decor focused store and a clothing store. I really enjoy shopping for clothes at One More Time and they have such a good variety of options for all body types. The store accepts consignments in addition to selling items, so it’s easy to revamp your wardrobe.
Location: 1521 W 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43212
Website: One More Time

Flower Child

If it’s vintage items you’re after, you have to go to Flower Child. This shop sells clothing, accessories, furniture, home decor, art, and so much more. The items in the shop range from the 1930s to the 1980s and walking through the store is like hopping in a time machine. You can find some pretty incredible deals at Flower Child as well as some fantastic customer service.
Location: 233 E 5th Ave, Columbus, OH 43201
Website: Flower Child

The post 5 Fantastic Thrift Stores Around Columbus Where You Can Find Great Deals appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Whether you’re hunting for doorbusters or just enjoying the thrill of the crowd, knowing when your favorite spots are open is essential. We’ve got you covered with Black Friday hours for malls and major retailers in Columbus.

Malls Open on Black Friday

Tanger Outlets

The Mall at Tuttle Crossing

Easton Town Center

Polaris Fashion Place

Stores Open on Black Friday

Tech & Gaming

Apple

Best Buy

GameStop

Sporting & Outdoors

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s

Dick’s Sporting Goods

REI

Beauty and Personal Care

Bath & Body Works

Ulta Beauty

Department Stores

JCPenney

Kohl’s

Macy’s

Nordstrom

Target

Walmart

Home & Lifestyle

HomeGoods

L.L. Bean

Fashion & Accessories

Marshall’s

TJ Maxx

Whether you’re looking to shop ‘til you drop or just snag a few deals, knowing the hours can help you make the most of your Black Friday adventure. Good luck out there!

The post When Columbus Stores Are Opening for Black Friday 2024 appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

One of the things that makes Christmas such an immersive holiday is the memories you make. For me, those memories always included a live tree, even if my sister was allergic.

It doesn’t matter if you want to walk onto a lot and choose one that’s already been cut down, or if you’re looking for the full Griswold Family Christmas experience.

There is a Christmas tree lot or farm out there, waiting for you and your family to come and make some holiday memories. Who’s ready?

HTH Christmas Tree Lot – Linworth

What: HTH Christmas Tree Lot is truly one-stop shopping when it comes to Christmas greenery. They carry Fraser Fir, Scotch Pine, White Pine, and Douglas Fir trees ranging from 4 feet to 13 feet. You can also grab some Fraser Fir wreaths, garland, and even tree stands.
When: Open starting the week of Thanksgiving, 7 days a week through Dec. 23
Where: 2340 Dublin Granville Rd. Linworth, OH 43235
Website: HTH Christmas Tree Lot – Linworth

Taylor Christmas Tree Farm

What: For over a decade, the Taylor Christmas Tree Farm has been family-owned and operated. The lot offers a variety of trees, ranging from table top size to 16-feet tall.
When: Open starting November 22, 2024
Where: 1623 Kenny Road, Columbus, OH 43212
Website: Taylor Christmas Tree Farm

Country Cabin Tree Farm – Sunbury

What: Looking for that perfect family experience? At Country Cabin Tree Farm, you and your family can choose and cut down your favorite tree. Country Cabin will provide all the tools you need to chop down your tree and secure it to your vehicle! If you prefer a pre-cut tree, they are available as well.
When: Open November 29, 30, and December 1, reservations required
Where: 3600 Wilson Road, Sunbury, Ohio
Website: Country Cabin Tree Farm – Sunbury

Hickory Ridge Tree Farm – Alexandria

What: Choose and chop down from over 50 acres of beautiful Christmas trees at Hickory Ridge Tree Farm. Tree prices range from $50 to $300. Tree varieties include Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, Black Hills Spruce, White Pine, Scotch Pines, Canaan Fir, Fraser Fir, and Canadian Hemlock.
When: Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve, daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 3600 Johnstown-Alexandria Rd, Alexandria, OH 43001
Website: Hickory Ridge Tree Farm – Alexandria

Cackler Farms- Delaware

What: Cackler Farms offers a huge variety of trees for you and your family to choose from, including Canaan Fir, Fraser Fir, Blue Spruce, Norway Spruce, Serbian Spruce, Austrian Pine, Scotch Pine, and White Pine. This year, you’ll need a reservation when coming to pick out your tree. You can find all the details below.
When: Open from November 27 through December 15, hours and days vary and reservations are encouraged. Click here for details.
Where: 4971 Cackler Rd. Delaware, OH 43015
Website: Cackler Farms- Delaware

Homestead Farm – Granville

What: Homestead Farm sells trees, wreaths, and more each year at their farm. This year’s sale will be shorter, due to limited inventory, so don’t wait! Tree types include a variety of pine, spruce, and firs, and prices start at $50.
When: Open November 29-30 and December 1, 7-8, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: 2573 Loudon St., Granville OH 43023
Website: Homestead Farm – Granville

Timbuk Farms – Granville

What: Timbuk Farms is one of the oldest and largest Christmas tree farms in Central Ohio. They planted their first trees in 1952 and have over 300-acres. There are thousands of trees to choose from, ranging in price from $20-$85+. Timbuk also offers deals on “Charlie Brown Trees”, which range from $6-$19. Santa Claus will be on hand each weekend with Mrs. Clause for a photo opportunity.
When: Open daily starting November 29 through December 21
Where: 2030 Timbuk Road, Granville, Ohio 43023
Website: Timbuk Farms – Granville

Oakland Nurseries – Columbus

What: Oakland Nurseries is setting up seven Christmas Tree Lots located across Columbus. To view all of the locations, please click here. These trees are all pre-cut, so just choose the perfect one for your family and get it home, without any hassle. Prices vary by size.
When: Open daily starting November 24
Where: Various locations
Website: Oakland Nurseries – Columbus

Featured image by Sean Foster on Unsplash

The post The Best Places To Get A Christmas Tree In Columbus appeared first on Columbus Navigator.

Okay, maybe not everyone loves reading as much as I do and requires a monthly book budget. But just in case, I had to tell you about this upcoming book sale.

The Friends of the Columbus Metropolitan Library are hosting one of my personal favorite events, the Big Book Sale. A variety of books, DVDs, CDs, and audiobooks will be available to purchase, and let me tell you, they’ve got a steep discount.

To get in before the crowds, you need to become a member of Friends of the Library. The membership gives you discounts at the Library Store and library cafes, as well as exclusive pre-sale access on Thursday, October 24 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 25: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Open to All)
Saturday, Oct. 26: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Open to All)
Sunday, Oct. 27: 1-4 p.m. (All Bag Sale)

For non-members, the General Sale will take place Friday, October 25 through Sunday, October 27. The Big Book Sale allows visitors to purchase books and library materials that are no longer suitable for the library’s collection.

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Prices

• Children’s books start at $1
• Adult fiction & nonfiction start at $2
• DVDs, CDs & audiobooks start at $2

At those prices, it’s hard to imagine it getting better. But on Sunday, shoppers will be attending the Bag/Clearance sale. That means you’ll be able to bring a sturdy bag to fill for $5.

If you don’t have a tote bag laying around, you can purchase a Friends of the Library canvas tote and stock up for $8.50.

Proceeds from the Big Book Sale will benefit the Columbus Metropolitan Library’s programs and services. The Big Book Sale takes place in the Larry D. Black Auditorium at the Main Library (96 S Grant Ave.)

My advice? Go in with a loose plan. Even an actual list can be useful, particularly if you’re in the mood to play treasure hunter. You may or may not find what you’re looking for, but having some structure for your effort makes the tables a little less overwhelming.

The Main Library is located at 96 S. Grant Ave. For more info, visit columbuslibrary.org.

Have fun, friends!

The post The Big Book Sale Is Back At The Columbus Metropolitan Library appeared first on Columbus Navigator.