Discover downtown Kent, Ohio, local cafés, shopping, dining, and breweries.
Ladies, we all know the story. The men gather with their buddies on Christmas Eve, hit a bar, then rush out to buy last-minute gifts. Well, this year it is time to flip the script. Grab your best friends and plan a girls’ day out in Kent, Ohio. It is so much more than just a college town. Here is a sampling of what you will discover during a great day of holiday shopping in Kent, Ohio, packed with festive fun from start to finish.
Start Your Day With Coffee
Let’s begin at any one of Kent’s great coffee shops to get our energy going for a nonstop day of laughter, great finds, and holiday memories. One favorite is Tree City Coffee, known for warm breakfast bites and seasonal treats like their maple scone. It is perfect for a chilly morning. Scribbles offers a relaxed vibe and a selection of fresh roasted beans. Or stop at Bent Tree Coffee, which roasts its own organic beans and fills the shop with a rich aroma. With that caffeine boost, your girls’ day out in Kent, Ohio, is ready to begin.
Holiday Shopping in Downtown Kent, Ohio
From here, your shopping adventure begins. From one-of-a-kind vintage jewelry to autographed sports memorabilia, downtown Kent shops make holiday shopping simple with many local stores within walking distance. As you move through downtown, the festive decorations and friendly shops create an easy flow to your day.
Acorn Alley: Situated in the heart of downtown, it features brick pathways leading to eateries, boutiques, and creative stores. A great stop is Off the Wagon Kent, a favorite among locals and visitors. With more than 2500 square feet of fun items, you will find gifts you will not see in big stores.
“I love Off The Wagon because it is the perfect store to find a gift for someone difficult to shop for. Going there brings back the same happiness as going to the dollar store as a kid with your birthday money”-–Alex, Kent resident
Discover City Bank Antiques: Next, wander toward City Bank Antiques in Kent, opened by Don and Karen Barrett in 1995. It sits inside the original 1911 City Bank Building. The shop fills the entire first floor and offers clocks, pocket watches, wristwatches, and vintage jewelry. Don is known for his skill with American pocket watches. You will also see souvenir spoons, coins, lamps, books, and even large-scale steam locomotives. It is easy to lose track of time here with so many items to look at.
More Great Kent, Ohio Shops: Keep your day moving with a stop at Main Street Memorabilia. You may find signed items from NFL legends or a framed photo signed by Chevy Chase from Christmas Vacation, sure to bring a smile. Then visit Flourish Plant Market in Kent, perfect for anyone on your list with a green thumb. This shop offers rare and easy-care plants, along with locally made pots and supplies. It is a strong stop for local shopping in Kent, Ohio.
Another fun stop is Board and Bevy, a relaxed space where you can recharge before the next round of shopping. They offer a wide selection of board games you can play with your friends, along with drinks and light bites that keep the fun going. It is a great place to sit together, laugh, and enjoy a quick break during your girls’ day out.
Enjoy Dinner and Drinks
After crossing names off your list, it is time to enjoy dinner. Kent, Ohio, restaurants offer many options for every appetite. A great place to unwind is The Lake House Kitchen and Bar. Popular picks include their Buoy Burger and Crispy Lake Perch, both well-loved for fresh ingredients and generous portions. It is a warm spot to relax after a full day of shopping.
For a bold flavor twist, check out The Battleground Taproom and Mexican Kitchen. They serve traditional Mexican dishes like pozole, tamales, mole, and churros. Every tortilla is made fresh, and the salsas are made daily.
Bell Tower Brewing Co., located in a restored historic building, is an inviting place where family and friends can gather. Discover handcrafted beer, cocktails, and seasonal dishes for every taste, including vegan and gluten-free options. Another excellent choice for a local brew is North Water Brewing, located in the Mill District. This brewery focuses on sustainability by using clean power, local ingredients, and recycling or composting. The space offers live music, art, and a friendly place to end your Kent, Ohio, girls’ trip.
Why Kent Is Perfect for a Girls’ Day Out
A holiday shopping day in Kent, Ohio, keeps everything close, festive, and fun. You can walk from shop to shop, find great gifts, enjoy local food, and make memories with your friends. It is the kind of outing that warms your spirit during the busy holiday season. Gather your group, grab a cup of coffee, and enjoy a day that feels like the perfect break before Christmas. Plan your visit today at the Central Portage CVB.
