Shopping in Ohio’s Grand Lake Region is a fun and great way to explore the area’s charming downtowns during a break from lake life. After a day on the water at Grand Lake St. Marys, take time to stroll through places like Celina, St. Marys, and Wapakoneta, where boutique shops and locally owned businesses line the streets. You’ll find everything from handcrafted gifts and home décor to sweet treats and one-of-a-kind finds. It’s the perfect way to experience the local flavor, shop local, and enjoy the vibe of these great Ohio small towns in the Ohio Grand Lake Region.
Full Disclosure: To help offset the costs of running Gleason Family Adventure, you’ll find affiliate links throughout the site. If you choose to purchase through one of these links, there’s no additional cost to you, but I’ll earn a small commission. You can read the entire legal disclosure on the full disclosure page.
This blog was sponsored by Ohio’s Grand Lake Region
Sip, Shop, and Savor Your Way Through Celina
Downtown Celina is full of surprises, and it’s the perfect place to explore when you’re ready to trade your flip-flops for a little small-town shopping and dining. Start at Made Apparel, a stylish boutique known for its soft graphic tees, trendy home goods, and Ohio-made finds, you’ll want to grab a souvenir or two. Meander through Boardwalk Village and the Boardwalk Marketplace to browse a fun mix of local treasures and artisan goods, perfect for picking up something unique. Feeling thirsty? Head to Brew Nation, where craft beer meets creative fun, think wood-fired pizza, and even a pottery-painting station. For a casual hangout, 202 Tavern is a local pub where friends gather over cold drinks and good food. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more upscale, Speakeasy Steak & Ale House brings on the wow with perfectly cooked steaks, seafood, and over 200 craft beers and spirits, all served in a moody, Prohibition-style setting.
Don’t leave Celina without a stop at Lighthouse Candle Studio, where you can create your own candle or body product from over 40 fragrance options, perfect for a one-of-a-kind scent that everyone will ask where you bought it. It’s all part of the charm that makes Celina such a fun place to explore beyond the lake.
Pro-tip: The operating hours of these establishments vary, so it’s best to check their websites or call ahead before planning your visit.
From Boutiques to Baked Goods in the Heart of Wapak
Wapakoneta is full of small-town fun and unexpected gems that make it a great place to explore for the day. Start your stroll downtown with a visit to Frost Impressions, where you can pick up personalized gifts and custom items that make perfect gifts for that hard-to-shop-for person. Green thumbs will love Modern Plantsman, a beautifully curated plant shop filled with lush greenery, stylish pots, and fun DIY workshops. Just down the street, the aroma of fresh-baked bread and pastries will lead you to Rolling Pin Artisan Bakery, a spot for a morning treat or a mid-day break. Art lovers will want to stop at Riverside Art Center, which showcases local talent through rotating exhibits and creative classes.
You’ll want to sign up for one. Got a sweet tooth? Krave Creamery’s serving up scoops so dreamy, even the sun gets jealous. Fashionistas won’t want to miss Twelve Oak Boutique, where you’ll find trendy outfits and thoughtful gifts in a bright, welcoming space. State & Local is a favorite for locally made goods and Ohio-sourced products, ideal for grabbing something unique and supporting area makers. And when the day winds down, Glow Lounge is great for your wellness with spray tanning and red light therapy to have you looking and feeling your best, bringing all the summer vibes.
Creative Finds and Coffee Vibes in Coldwater
Downtown Coldwater has a creative energy and cozy charm, making it the perfect spot for a laid-back outing. Start your visit at Pennyjane Art Co. Art Gallery & Studio, where you can wander through a bright, quirky space showcasing handmade pottery, original paintings, mixed-media pieces, jewelry, and more all created by local and regional artists since opening in November 2020. Then head over to Rooster Joe’s Coffee & Co., a cheerful café known for its quality coffee roasts, housemade soups, salads, and sandwiches served in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Together, these two downtown gems offer the perfect blend of artistic flair and local flavor in Coldwater.
St. Mary’s Surprises with Retro Fun and Local Flavor
St. Mary’s: A Local Experience St. Mary’s, Ohio, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered during your Grand Lake Region getaway. Start your visit with a nostalgic blast from the past at The Comet Pinball, an arcade filled with vintage and modern pinball machines, everything from Jaws to John Wick, and a few classic video games thrown in for good measure. If you’re ready to relax, Wishing Well Massage Studio offers the perfect escape with calming, personalized treatments that will leave you refreshed and recharged, ready for more adventures. Finish your day at GR8 Vines Winery, a cozy, veteran-owned spot where you can sip small-batch wines, enjoy a wine slushie, or pair your drink with a local cheese tray. This is just a taste of the local flavor that makes St. Mary’s a must-visit destination.
When you plan your getaway to Grand Lake St. Marys, make time to step beyond the shoreline. Wander into Celina, Wapakoneta, St. Marys, and Coldwater to uncover charming shops, cozy cafés, and flavorful dining experiences that turn a lake trip into something unforgettable. It’s a reminder that the best part of travel is often found in the small moments, shopping local, tasting something new, and enjoying the welcoming vibe of Ohio’s small towns.
Happy Adventures,
Brandy
Pin for later!
