Who would guess that my new favorite "getaway when you can't really get away" hangout would be…read morecute, cozy, perpetually colder/snowier than anywhere else in this region, Bellefontaine, Ohiooooooooooo?!? And hidden away off Main Street is an equally hidden gem, the Holland Theatre, where I just attended an awesome, "I can't believe they came here to Ohiooooo" concert a few weeks ago. WELL worth the approx. 45 min. drive from Springfield!!
One of several historic theaters in the region that are being saved/restored, rather than "paved/put up a parking lot," which seems to happen all too often. Friendly, helpful staff, a great variety of offerings (I was there for an AMAZING Spanish timple/classical guitar concert), plenty of parking, and a large, yet cozy feeling auditorium, what more could you ask for. Sadly, there was just a very small "crowd" for this concert, so rather than spread the 20-25 or so ticket holders all throughout the auditorium, they set up chairs and had us sit right on the stage with the performers. I wish more people had attended, but it was a wonderful, intimate show!! The manager of the theatre, Chris, even joined the show and did an AMAZING acoustic guitar duet with one of the musicians.
They've got a great, user-friendly website and plenty of eclectic offerings. Get here early and sample one (or more!) of the surprisingly interesting dining options, or just take a walk through this fun, happening small town!!