A Fall Day at Findlay Market
A dog lies lazily in the October sun, watching groups of people maneuver through the vibrant market. I recognize this dog— I see her often. A gentle giant, her white fur blows in the light gusts of breeze that make for the perfect weather to get out and enjoy the newly arrived autumn season. She and her owners frequent Findlay Market, and I often catch sight of them throughout the year. A universal sense of joy is shared between all humans and dogs alike on this first Saturday of October. Findlay Market is a delight to visit any time of the year, but there’s a special spirit in the fall that makes me find any excuse to go as often as possible.
A dog lies lazily in the October sun, watching groups of people maneuver through the vibrant market. I recognize this dog— I see her often. A gentle giant, her white fur blows in the light gusts of breeze that make for the perfect weather to get out and enjoy the newly arrived autumn season. She and her owners frequent Findlay Market, and I often catch sight of them throughout the year. A universal sense of joy is shared between all humans and dogs alike on this first Saturday of October. Findlay Market is a delight to visit any time of the year, but there’s a special spirit in the fall that makes me find any excuse to go as often as possible.
So, what does a typical trip to Findlay look like for me? If you’re looking for suggestions on where to start, this article is for you. First things first: a trip to Findlay is a sacred experience for me, and no sacred experience begins without coffee. Luckily, there are plenty of options— Urbana Cafe and Taste of Belgium both have merchant booths right in the market, while Deeper Roots Coffee is just down the street from the main market. Once your pumpkin pie latte from Urbana Cafe is in hand, you must explore the variety of vendors set up just outside the market building. From handmade jewelry and art to trinkets, clothing and desserts, these stands offer one-of-a-kind items you won’t find anywhere else.
Findlay is known for its food and shopping, but the fun doesn’t end at the market’s edge. The surrounding Over-the-Rhine neighborhood is filled with vintage clothing shops (my personal favorites for thrifting), restaurants and other small businesses that showcase Cincinnati’s creativity. Visiting Findlay is the perfect way to support local entrepreneurs and experience the city’s artistry firsthand.
There are almost too many food options to choose from, whether you want lunch or fresh ingredients to cook with at home. If you visit in the morning, pair your coffee with a decadent cinnamon roll or a savory feta-and-spinach danish from Makers Bakers Co. Bakery. At lunchtime, The Arepa Place takes the cake. Serving up both meat-filled and cheesy vegetarian Colombian-Venezuelan arepas, it’s nearly impossible to walk by without stopping in for a meal–at least for me! For vegetarian dishes or ingredients to bring home, I always stop by Harmony Plant Fare. You don’t have to be vegan or vegetarian to enjoy this deli–every dish bursts with flavor that even meat-eaters will love. Their vegetarian buffalo tenders are the star of the show in tacos I cook at home.
My next stop is one my pets would never forgive me for skipping. Remember that sweet pup from earlier? I’d bet she was dreaming about the high-quality treats at Pet Wants, located just a few shops down from where she rested. This store is a must on every visit–they carry nutritious food, toys and treats for your furry family members. I like to think both of my spoiled cats appreciate the nutritious chicken and rice cat food I purchase to support their digestive health, but I think that would be an overestimation of their character.
Before heading out, I always add a little spice to my life— literally. Colonel De Gourmet Herbs & Spices, located just inside the market, offers an impressive selection of herbs, spices and rubs that make cooking meats, tofu and veggies more exciting. Finally (I’m leaving, I swear!) I stop by Market Wines to pick up a sweet bottle to pair with dinner later that night. A flavorful homemade meal with fresh market ingredients and a velvety glass of wine is the perfect way to end the day–and to start looking forward to my next visit.
Opened in 1855, Ohio’s oldest public market remains a gem from the past that continues to sparkle in the present. Findlay Market is a Cincinnati treasure–a place where locals and visitors alike can shop, eat, and explore. As fall deepens and the air grows crisp, take advantage of the beautiful weather and the market’s charm. These are just a few of my must-visit stops, but you’ll have to explore for yourself to discover your own favorites!
