For 21 years, I have resided in Akron, OH, a place that I am both happy and proud to call home. Not being an Ashland native like some, I was unsure about what to expect when I initially arrived as a college freshman. Was the town busy, or quiet? Were the people friendly? Was I going to get used to the idea of living here for the next four years? I had a bunch of haphazard questions swirling around in my head all at once.

Nonetheless, I reminded myself that no matter where I ended up, this was just one short chapter out of many in my life and to just embrace everyone and every opportunity that would come my way.

Being in a new city was foreign to me. Sure, I had done my fair share of traveling, but only with friends or family members. Never have I been on my own before- the idea scared me, but it also thrilled me.

As a free-spirited individual, one day I thought to myself, “I will drive around the city and see what happens.”

With that, I was in my car and excited to see what I would eventually discover to be some of the greatest treasures in Ashland, OH. Here are five of Ashland’s most intriguing places to visit:

1. Grandpa’s Cheesebarn and Sweetie’s Jumbo Chocolates 

A family-owned and operated company since 1978, Grandpa’s Cheesebarn and Sweetie’s Jumbo Chocolates is the perfect mix of sweet and savory.

From over 14 types of rich, homemade fudge, a variety of mouth-watering chocolates, candies, and cookies, they certainly give Willy Wonka a run for his money. Grandpa’s Cheesebarn also has a vast array of different jellies, deli meats, and over 200 types of delicious cheeses to choose from.

Recently, a sister location opened in Norton, OH, called “The Best of Grandpa’s Cheesebarn.”

Jillian Mckenzie, the assistant manager of this establishment, explained why ultimately, this is unlike any other shopping experience one will have.

“I would say it is the customer-service interaction; we have great employees here. They are very friendly,” said Mckenzie. “We take the time to talk with [our] customers; we like to treat them like they are our friends, as part of our family.”

 Grandpa’s Cheesebarn and Sweetie’s Jumbo Chocolates are open daily Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 p.m. to 6 p.m. It is located on route 250.

2. Honey Haven Farm

For generations, the Honey Haven Farm has been making individuals feel like family. The farm has a ton of activities for all ages to enjoy. A fall festival with craft vendors, a pumpkin patch, wagon rides, a tractor show, and live music are just a few.

Additionally, in the spring, the farm has a greenhouse as well as a farmer’s market with fresh produce available for purchase.

John Boyer, the owner and operator of the Honey Haven Farm, acknowledged why he and his family love taking on the challenge of running the farm and what makes it worthwhile.

“A lot of people have asked me why I do [farming] because there is a lot of work involved in order to get ready. I like to think of this as community service,” said Boyer. “There have been many days where I have stood here when there are 3,000 or 4,000 people and I look around and say, “Man, I did this. Look at how many people are happy.”

The Honey Haven Farm is seasonal throughout the spring- specifically, from the month of April until June. The farmer’s market is open from the month of July through September Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from noon until 4 p.m. It is located at 1327 County Rd. 1475.

3. Kelley’s Vinyl Record Store

It all began in 1959. Collecting vinyl records was more than just a hobby for one man in particular; it was a passion.

Jack Kelley, the owner and operator of Kelley’s Vinyl Record Store, has a whopping total of 2,000 vinyl records at home. In the store, he has a jaw-dropping total of about 30,000 albums in stock.

With 4 rooms in the back filled with endless records, one has enough music to listen to, probably for an entire decade.

Kelley discussed how one goes about getting rid of his or her vinyl records at the store in exchange for cash.

 “From collectors; they [either] downsize, get out of the hobby, [attend] auctions or real-estate sales, garage sales, [basically] wherever they can find them,” said Kelley. “People bring them here and know that I am buying. I advertise on the radio, 107.7, 102.3, and in the local Ashland newspaper.”

Kelley’s Vinyl Record Store is open daily Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is located at 126 East Main St.

 4. Madame Bagnabit’s Bizarre Boutique

Once a former website for selling fun costume jewelry and trendy purses, Madame Bagnabit’s since then has evolved in a big way.

Known for its “bohemian vibe,” the store carries items from all around the world. From intoxicating incense, crystals, and unique clothing and accessories, one will be captivated as soon as they walk through the door with all that the store has to offer.

Amanda Rusynyk, the co-owner and manager of this establishment, described how the boutique has a little something for everyone.

“People say that we are a smaller version of the store [Earthbound Trading Co.], and I love that,” said Rusynyk. “It is [great] to be here and be that weird, cool little place that is different.”

Soon, the store plans on relocating next door to the Uniontown Brewery Co., which is located at 105 West Main St. The boutique also will serve hot herbal tea to customers, complete with a comfy seating area for those who want to unwind. Hippies welcome.

Madame Bagnabit’s Bizarre Boutique is open daily Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

5. The Downtown Perk

From flavored coffees, to fresh fruit smoothies, chopped salads, hearty wraps, decadent desserts, and a plethora of breakfast options and hot soups, one will never leave this café feeling hungry.

Molly Brown, the manager of this establishment, noted how this is the perfect location for relaxing after a long day.

“We have an open room in the back with a couch and a lounge area. It is nice because it is a quiet place to grab a coffee and do homework or grab a bite to [eat],” said Brown. “There is also a store in the front that we share; they have a lot of local [items], so it gives people something else to look at while they are in here as well.”

The Downtown Perk is open daily Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is located at West Main St.