Welcome to #QuirkyOhio, our 2017 blog series highlighting Ohio’s odd, unusual and downright wacky experiences, places and events. Follow along as we profile some of the quirkiest parts of the state! Some places in our Quirky Ohio journey are a little cheesier than others, but Grandpa’s Cheesebarn takes the cake — or cheesecake.
Photo Credit: Grandpa's CheesebarnChock full of personality, cheeses and sweets, Grandpa’s Cheesebarn promises a fun experience full of good times and great food! Located just outside Ashland, Ohio, right off I-71, Grandpa’s Cheesebarn has officially been in business since the turn of the century and has a history almost as rich as its chocolates.In the early 1900’s, the business founder, Grandpa Yarman, sold his only possession — a portable RCA radio — to start a meat and cheese house. Over the coming decades, Grandpa Yarman’s meat and cheese house grew into a successful business that he ultimately passed down to his daughter and son-in-law.In 1978, Yarman’s daughter and son-in-law officially renamed the business "Grandpa’s Cheesebarn." Almost 20 years later, the family expanded their business by selling homemade chocolates and candies through Sweeties Jumbo Chocolates — an in-house candy shop.
Photo Credit: Grandpa's CheesebarnAfter more than a century of hard work and four generations, Grandpa’s Cheesebarn continues to welcome visitors daily from all over the globe. TripAdvisor even ranks it as the number one thing to do in Ashland County, and the family recently opened a second location in Norton, Ohio.With a wide variety of sweet treats and savory cheeses, it’s a one-stop shop for delicious homemade delicacies. Anyone who visits can taste home-smoked meats, specialty cheeses, Amish country jams, jellies, pickles, local honey, maple syrup and handmade chocolates and candies.What other tasty, quirky spots in Ohio should we visit? We look forward to your feedback below or over on Facebook!