Travel

Weekend getaway — Milan: This small Colonial town is the perfect destination for your next mini-vacation

BY ANNIE LUST

Milan, Ohio is less than 15 miles south of Lake Erie, but it is easy to mistake the destination for New England. The village is home to less than 2,000 people, many who live in Colonial-style homes. The charm of the town is the feeling that you are not only in a different place but also in a different time. Perhaps that has something to do with being the birthplace of Thomas Edison or the multiple antique stores. Whatever your interests, Milan makes the perfect weekend getaway destination. We’ll share the things you don’t want to miss so you can book your trip.

EVENTS

Milan hosts several events throughout the year that visitors enjoy. The MidSummer Antiques Fest is an antique lover’s paradise. It takes place in early July. Over Labor Day Weekend, tens of thousands crowd Milan for the Annual Melon Festival. Parades, entertainment, rides, a 5k run and a classic car show are all part of the event. Not to mention the specialty ice cream that Toft’s makes just for the event: muskmelon ice cream or watermelon sherbet. For a trip back to the 1800’s, you only need to visit the third weekend of October for Settlers’ Weekend. Ride a horse drawn buggy and see reenactors (including President Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant) make the pioneer days come alive!

SHOP

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You won’t find any big box stores in Milan! There are several unique shopping options to choose. D’Vine Design is a ladies specialty gift shop. You will find jewelry, home decor, clothing, and more unique items. If you enjoy shopping for antiques, you have found the right place! Sights & Sounds of Edison sells general antiques but specializes in anything related to Thomas Edison. Milan Inn-tiques and Crosby’s Antiques also warrant a visit.

EAT & DRINK

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The first food stop should be Coffee Station. Come for breakfast, lunch, or just a sweet treat. At Milan Wine Post, you can have a glass of wine or craft beer while enjoying entertainment or you can browse the wide wine selection to buy a bottle to take with you. Other dining options include Jim’s Pizza Box, Invention Family Restaurant, and The Wonder Bar.

STAY

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The Angel Welcome Bed & Breakfast is as charming as the name implies. Judy Pleunik purchased the large house in 2001 to open a B&B. “You are one of the family, if only for a few days” is the promise for visitors. You will not be disappointed. Judy’s warm smile makes visitors feel at ease immediately. The cozy decor helps, too. The three suites (aptly named Faith, Hope, and Love) overlook a lovely yard. This is a spot you don’t want to miss - even if you’ve never tried a Bed and Breakfast. Another perk? It is just around the corner from the town square. You can truly relax by leaving the car parked and walking the very short distance to the food, shopping, and entertainment.

EXPLORE

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No trip to Milan would be complete without a tour of Thomas Edison’s birthplace. A guided tour takes you through the preserved Edison home, which is filled with items the Edison family used. St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church is the local parish in Milan, and you won’t want to miss it on your visit!