It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Oberlin and the Underground Railroad in Oberlin, OH gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Oberlin, OH is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“My husband has home care with Racheal for PT. She is a fabulous physical therapist. She”
“They are great people”
“It is never easy when a loved one is hurting. The staff here cares and”
“Great people.”
“WOW! This agency went above and beyond for my family. The care and staff personalities”
“Took great care of my uncle. Very compassionate and caring. The nurses and the office”
“Always Best Care has provided excellent nursing care and therapy to both my mom and”
“We have used always best care twice now for a bit of respite care and”
“I am a past client of this provider This was our first outreach for support -”
“”
“This company is amazing. The staff are excellent and they do everything they can to”
“This was the first time we had tried in home care for my mom. They”
“My dad was a patient of ABC of Grafton after triple bypass surgery. The nurses”
“Staff is very friendly and always take great care of mom, really took the pressure”
“The entire staff is fantastic to work with! They are professional and knowledgeable, and go”
“Staff is excellent to work with and communication is quick and responsive. I am”
“Undoubtedly would recommend to any individual in need of their scope of services. Exceptional customer”
“Absolutely AMAZING staff to work with! They care for their patients like it's their”
“Nice service, staff helpful. Glad they were recommended”
“I would recommend them to everyone that I know. I have been with them since”
“My nurse Jamie is amazing and very caring , the off was always very helpful”
“I have been in there care since November of 2019. Jamie my nurse is amazing”
“My nurse Jamie was awesome, and support staff always helpful”
“They took care of my father-in-law AND my mother-in-law and they couldn't have been better.”
“The entire staff helped tremendously with my father's care. Jim is certified in Alzheimer's and”
“The entire staff helped tremendously with my father's care. Jim is certified in Alzheimer's and”
“The staff there are very knowledgeable and kind”
“care taken in matching aides to clients”
“Great place and good people”
“I am a current client of this provider Good service that seems to care about the”
“I am a current client of this provider We have hired Always Best Care. The caregiver”
“I am a past client of this provider I used Always Best Care Senior Services. There”
“I am a past client of this provider Couldn't be more pleased with the service and”
“My husband has home care with Racheal for PT. She is a fabulous physical therapist. She is caring, up beat, ( and funny when it is appropriate to make us laugh when laughter is needed ! ) she is always coming up with new ideas to help him achieve his goals. She also has the ability to push him when he needs to go a little further. He has made so many improvements since she has been working with him !”
“They are great people”
“It is never easy when a loved one is hurting. The staff here cares and will do everything within their power to help”
“Great people.”
“WOW! This agency went above and beyond for my family. The care and staff personalities made this a great experience. I will absolutely choose them again in the future.”
“Took great care of my uncle. Very compassionate and caring. The nurses and the office staff were amazing.”
“Always Best Care has provided excellent nursing care and therapy to both my mom and mother in law.”
“We have used always best care twice now for a bit of respite care and they are awesome !!! The nurses are wonderful with my mom who is 90 and has dementia So caring and loving with her from scheduling to care It was the best experience .”
“I am a past client of this provider This was our first outreach for support - the first time Dad expressed an interest in support while I was out of town. I wasn't sure we could find anyone who would be able to provide care quickly enough, especially through a large organization like the VA (and) I was really nervous about the type of person who would be showing up at our house. Fortunately, the VA connected me to Rebecca at Always Best Care in Grafton who helped to push through the request with our VA connection (who was also awesome) and took the time to learn a LOT about what Dad's needs would be. She chose the perfect caregiver/aide for his Respite Care, and Jada was able to start the day I left on my trip. I can't say enough wonderful things about Jada. She took the time to read my notes on her first day... about Dad's situation, our home, the cats, and my suggestions about starting and finishing her 4 hours, etc. and she followed both the letter and the spirit of my/our request for assistance. She was on time, she communicated any urgent information with me (Dad had a minor fall before she arrived one day), she respected his wishes, his way of doing things, and held the line about medicine, hydration, meals, and other essential things. She gave Dad the confidence that she would be there everyday to help him and support him. We will be back the next time I travel, we will request Jada, and I cannot recommend ABC Grafton more highly. We were so unsure about what we were asking and now know where we can turn for the assistance we need. Thank you!!”
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“This company is amazing. The staff are excellent and they do everything they can to make life easier for their clients and family. Even on short notice they provided great service on a Sunday.”
“This was the first time we had tried in home care for my mom. They made an experience I was nervous about, a huge relief for my family. Setting up the care was easy and I knew from their knowledge that my mom was in good hands. We received amazing care from the nurses, communication was easy so we knew what was going on at all times and everyone was so friendly. I will use them anytime the need arises for vacations or just a caregiver break.”
“My dad was a patient of ABC of Grafton after triple bypass surgery. The nurses and office staff was great to work with about his care. Jaime the nurse had so much compassion, she even called him periodically during the dad to remind him to do his deep breathing exercises. Our dad and family is so happy with all the services.”
“Staff is very friendly and always take great care of mom, really took the pressure off. Its a win all the way around! Perfectly splendid!”
“The entire staff is fantastic to work with! They are professional and knowledgeable, and go above and beyond for their patients! Highly recommend!”
“Staff is excellent to work with and communication is quick and responsive. I am able to easily work with everyone within the company for any issues that have come up.”
“Undoubtedly would recommend to any individual in need of their scope of services. Exceptional customer service in all aspects. The best company to use by far in Northern Ohio and top notch quality in any category you can think of! The staff are superb and efficient and have been helpful beyond measure with my Aunt Betty Lou and Uncle Jim! The best!”
“Absolutely AMAZING staff to work with! They care for their patients like it's their own grandma, grandpa, mother, father, aunt, uncle etc. They respond to all requests expeditiously and not only instill but expect these same expectations in all their staff. Highly recommend ABC whether for medical or non-medical needs!”
“Nice service, staff helpful. Glad they were recommended”
“I would recommend them to everyone that I know. I have been with them since November of 2019. My nurse Jamie is amazing. I also love the everyone at the office they are very helpful, courteous and friendly people.”
“My nurse Jamie is amazing and very caring , the off was always very helpful”
“I have been in there care since November of 2019. Jamie my nurse is amazing and will always go above and beyond for me. The office staff is very helpful, courteous and amazing to work with. I always recommend them. Thanks again for all you guys do. Stay safe.”
“My nurse Jamie was awesome, and support staff always helpful”
“They took care of my father-in-law AND my mother-in-law and they couldn't have been better. Very attentive to their needs, called before coming out. The nurses are wound certified and provide excellent care. I highly recommend them and would use them again anytime the need arises.”
“The entire staff helped tremendously with my father's care. Jim is certified in Alzheimer's and dementia care and took the time to sit with our entire family a provided a great deal of information, knowledge and tips on care as this is so overwhelming. Helped get us connected with the VA, as dad was a vet and also provided other community resources to lend assistance. Aides who care for dad are truly a blessing and mom is much less stressed. Highly recommend-they're GREAT!”
“The entire staff helped tremendously with my father's care. Jim is certified in Alzheimer's and dementia care and took the time to sit with our entire family a provided a great deal of information, knowledge and tips on care as this is so overwhelming. Helped get us connected with the VA, as dad was a vet and also provided other community resources to lend assistance. Aides who care for dad are truly a blessing and mom is much less stressed. Highly recommend-they're GREAT!”
“The staff there are very knowledgeable and kind”
“care taken in matching aides to clients”
“Great place and good people”
“I am a current client of this provider Good service that seems to care about the clients.”
“I am a current client of this provider We have hired Always Best Care. The caregiver comes in. She washes the floor, she cleans the bathroom, she vacuums, she changes the beds, and she does the laundry. She also talks to me. It is good. The management is very cooperative with us. There have been no problems. The pricing is reasonable.”
“I am a past client of this provider I used Always Best Care Senior Services. There were problems, but not very many. There was a few people I didn't care for and neither did the management over there. They would come over every day, and they did a pretty good job. There were times when they were short on people, and the younger people took a while to immediately give people what they needed. There were a couple of times when they were supposed to come in, but the caregiver was too young and she didn't show up on a Saturday night. As far as everything else they seemed to be alright.”
“I am a past client of this provider Couldn't be more pleased with the service and how nice the people are. - Michael D.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Oberlin Arboretum in Oberlin, OH with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Bistro Bella Luna or visit Oberlin Depot, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Oberlin, OH, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Oberlin, OH understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Oberlin, OH 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
OBERLIN, Ohio (WOIO) - Oberlin High School has canceled its 2026 football season, two weeks before its first scheduled game, after the district was unable to fill a roster large enough to field a safe team.Superintendent David Hall and Athletic Director Julian Acosta-Gorman announced the cancellation in a letter to the Oberlin City Schools community on Thursday, citing low participation as the reason.Attendance at camp fell short of minimumAcosta-Gorman said the program needs at least 17 players to run a season —...
OBERLIN, Ohio (WOIO) - Oberlin High School has canceled its 2026 football season, two weeks before its first scheduled game, after the district was unable to fill a roster large enough to field a safe team.
Superintendent David Hall and Athletic Director Julian Acosta-Gorman announced the cancellation in a letter to the Oberlin City Schools community on Thursday, citing low participation as the reason.
Acosta-Gorman said the program needs at least 17 players to run a season — a threshold the school has met in previous years, with varsity rosters ranging from 17 to 22 students over the past five seasons.
“Mandatory camp started Monday, we had eight kids, Tuesday we had seven, Wednesday we had seven,” Acosta-Gorman said.
The week before camp, 12 student-athletes attended practice. That number dropped to five the following Friday.
Acosta-Gorman said continuing the season with those numbers would have put players on the field for entire games, raising health and safety concerns.
“[Friday], we’re two weeks away from when we were supposed to play Wickliffe. We knew safely if we weren’t at our numbers the first week of mandatory camp, we weren’t ever going to be okay to get there,” Acosta-Gorman said.
The district reviewed circumstances contributing to the low attendance. Findings include a significant number of senior players graduating in recent years, increased student participation in other athletic programs and extracurricular activities, a slight increase in district enrollment without a corresponding rise in football participation, and a small number of students attending neighboring schools or pursuing other educational opportunities.
Roughly 200 students attend Oberlin High School.
The district, coaching staff, athletic department, and current student-athletes worked to recruit players and increase participation during the offseason and summer.
The decision to cancel came late, the district said, because in past years participation typically increased during the first week of August as students finalized their fall activities. That increase did not occur this year.
Oberlin is the third Ohio school to cancel its football season in 2026. Two other programs — one near Cincinnati and one near Toledo — folded for the same reason.
The cancellation means no student section, no cheerleaders at football games, and no homecoming football game this fall.
The marching band will continue its season, with director Matt Gerhardinger working to find alternative performance opportunities.
“Seems that we won’t have an October 3 homecoming football game, but there’s no reason we can’t have a homecoming band show,” Gerhardinger said.
“What can I get these kids doing so that their marching season isn’t a disappointment,” he said.
The district said it will not pay to use the Oberlin College field this fall. The athletic department is working with the high school’s cheerleading coach to identify opportunities for cheerleaders to support other athletic teams.
Students will still be recognized for football-related honors and other awards under district guidelines.
The district plans to work with the Ohio High School Athletic Association and neighboring school districts to find ways for current players to participate elsewhere this season. Conversations with neighboring districts have begun.
Oberlin City Schools said it will maintain its conference membership in other athletic programs, including the middle school’s football program, which currently has 20 players.
“I feel horrible that we weren’t able to do that for them,” Acosta-Gorman said.
Oberlin is a college town. And it’s so much more than that, too.The acclaimed college and music conservatory spans much of this city in Lorain County, but beyond the sprawl of dorms and academic buildings, Oberlin’s old-fashioned main street, vibrant park systems, quality restaurants and one-of-a-kind small businesses all contribute to a sense of place that is centered in community.If you haven’t made it out to this West Side haven of history and culture, and you’re looking for a day trip that’s cl...
Oberlin is a college town. And it’s so much more than that, too.
The acclaimed college and music conservatory spans much of this city in Lorain County, but beyond the sprawl of dorms and academic buildings, Oberlin’s old-fashioned main street, vibrant park systems, quality restaurants and one-of-a-kind small businesses all contribute to a sense of place that is centered in community.
If you haven’t made it out to this West Side haven of history and culture, and you’re looking for a day trip that’s close to home, consider hitting the road for a day spent in Oberlin — and use our guide to help you make the most of it.
Since it was founded in 1917, Oberlin College’s art museum has amassed a massive collection from around the world. Find pieces by iconic modern artists like Pablo Picasso and Andy Warhol, along with centuries-old works from Asia, Europe and Africa and even some ancient ceramic and sculptural creations. The sprawling museum, which is free and open to the public, is a gem in Northeast Ohio’s art world. 87 N. Main St., Oberlin,
Advertising its current showings on its recognizable old-school marquee, this single-screen theater has been showing movies since 1913. In more recent years, Oberlin College bought the building and hired Cleveland Cinemas to manage it. The building also houses the Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman Cinema Studies Center for Media Education and Production on the second floor for students to use. (Fun fact: DeVito and Perlman’s son Jake DeVito is an Oberlin alum.) 19 E. College St., Oberlin,
This new family-owned shop opened earlier this year, offering a sustainable shopping experience complete with a soap refillery. Nearly every item on the shop’s shelves is sourced from local vendors, including snacks, meats and bath goods. 16 S. Main St., Oberlin,
Explore shelves of used books, basic groceries, school supplies, toys and crafting materials. The longtime shop has hosted a hodgepodge of offerings in Oberlin since 1935. 13 W. College St., Oberlin,
Sweet treat cravings are covered at this 12-year-old Main Street bakery, which offers a daily selection of delectable desserts and breads. Pro Tip: Don’t skip the cookies. 38 S. Main St., Oberlin,
The center of the food and drink world in Oberlin since 1992 has been this hearty restaurant, which gets packed on weekends for its brunches and remains plenty busy at every other mealtime. Enjoy burgers and wings, alongside plenty of vegan and vegetarian-friendly alternatives. 30. S. Main St., Oberlin,
The headquarters of City Fresh, an expansive local farm box program, is nestled into this sprawling farm and wetland preserve. Northeast Ohioans can pick up weekly shares of locally grown produce at the farm, or opt for a different Northeast Ohio pickup location. Outside of City Fresh pickups, farm visitors can also volunteer, attend workshops, take guided hikes and enjoy other educational events. 44333 OH-511, Oberlin,
What you need to know to start a great day in Cleveland. Get the latest updates news, food and culture in your email inbox six days a week.
The second-floor experimental record shop run by musician Aaron Dilloway is a must-visit for physical media collectors. Alongside eclectic records, find a mix of lo-fi indie tapes released on the Hanson Records label. 25 1/2 W. College St., Oberlin,
Oberlin’s first-ever brewery opened in 2025, offering a sophisticated, light-filled space built for conversation, board games and beers brewed by Sam Foster, who owns the brewery with his wife, Abbie Foster. 29 S. Main St., Oberlin,
Korean cooking staples and snacks fill the aisles of this small corner store, which also crafts surprisingly solid fare like dumplings, vegetable pancakes, bulgogi and bibimbap. The no-fuss environment offers a few seats for dine-in customers. 23 Eric Nord Way, Suite 1, Oberlin,
Finney Chapel at Oberlin. | Photo courtesy Warren LeMay, via Flickr
Considering the stature of The Oberlin Conservatory of Music, it’s not surprising that there are plenty of spaces to find world-class performances during the school year. Though some events are for students only, many are open to the public. The student-run Dionysus Disco (aka, The ‘Sco) and the always-free Cat in the Cream Coffeehouse both host a mix of touring musicians and student performance events. Finney Chapel, Kulas Recital Hall, Fairchild Chapel and other campus stages also regularly host concerts, recordings and festivals that are often open to the public. Various locations,
This family-friendly spot has served up solid pizzas on checkered tablecloths for four decades. It’s become such a favorite in Oberlin that the business expanded with a second location in Downtown Lorain in 2024. 52 S. Main St., Oberlin,
Slicing through Oberlin is a well-maintained path that connects lakefront, farmland and cityscapes throughout much of Northeast Ohio. The North Coast Inland Trail uses abandoned railroad lines, park trails and sections of road bike lanes for a route that spans hundreds of miles of Northeast Ohio, including a picturesque, bike-friendly section in Oberlin that heads northward to Lake Erie. Pro Tip: We recommend starting in Oberlin at the Butternut Ridge Trailhead. 44342 Butternut Ridge Road, Oberlin,
Photo courtesy Roy Luck, via Flickr
Wetlands, ponds, creeks and woods are all nestled in the southernmost point of Oberlin College’s campus. A variety of walking paths criss-cross this park, which is also a sledding hot spot in the winter months. 293 Morgan St., Oberlin,
Oberlin played key roles in the underground railroad, the civil rights movement, the women’s rights movement and more, and much of that history is preserved at the Oberlin Heritage Center. The Center owns several buildings: the 1866 Monroe House, the 1836 Little Red Schoolhouse and the 1884 Jewett House, which all offer a peek into the past. Visitors can tour these buildings and also enjoy programmed history walks around town for more insight into local lore. 73 1/2 S. Professor St., Oberlin,
Astronomy students make regular use of the college’s observatory and planetarium, and during the academic year, the general public is invited in to see the stars as well on the first and third Fridays of the month. 50 N. Professor St., Oberlin,
Looking for a snarky mug? How about a weird pair of socks? Or a baby doll head planter? Ratsy’s is the place for you. This quirky shop provides one-of-a-kind vintage clothing and plenty of oddities to the community. 27 S. Main St., Oberlin,
Photo courtesy Edsel Little, via Flickr
Two cafes, run by the same co-owners, dominate Oberlin’s coffee scene. The glass-walled Slow Train Cafe hosts a lowkey hangout with plenty of work stations and space for music events, while down the street, The Local Coffee offers a more intimate cafe in the basement of Oberlin Bike Shop. The Slow Train Cafe: 55 E. College St., Suite 3, Oberlin; The Local: 23 S. Main St., Oberlin,
At this fast-casual Mexican eatery in Downtown Oberlin, find more than just tacos. The menu is packed with classic street food dishes like empanadas, tortas, esquites, tamales and more. 19 W. College St., Oberlin,
Photo courtesy Warren LeMay, via Flickr
This National Historic Landmark, named after Oberlin abolitionists and college supporters Arthur and Lewis Tappan, commonly hosts community events throughout the year. That includes family-friendly concerts at the Clark Bandstand on select Fridays during the summer. 67 N. Main St., Oberlin,
Recently opened in its new location earlier this year, you can’t miss the vibrant purple storefront on Main Street. And you shouldn’t miss the chance to try its menu of Northern Thai dishes, which are among the very best eats in Northeast Ohio. Opened by The Feve co-owners Matt and Jason Adelman, Thini Thai shines with a menu of small plates and mains by chef Aon Krittathiranon. 19 S. Main St., Oberlin,
Photo courtesy Warren LeMay, via Flickr
Architecture fans flock to Oberlin to tour the L-shaped Weltzheimer/Johnson House on the first Sunday of every month, when it hosts its ticketed open houses. The building, constructed in 1948, is Frank Lloyd Wright’s first Usonian home built in Ohio (but not the only one), and shares a unique story centered in a family home and artistic preservation. 534 Morgan St., Oberlin,
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The growing number of high school football programs unable to field varsity teams in 2026 has claimed another victim.Participation Numbers Fall ShortOberlin High School announced it has canceled its varsity football season after participation numbers dropped below a level the district determined was safe to compete, leaving players — particularly seniors — scrambling to salvage their final season.According to the Oberlin City School District, 14 students attended a football interest meeting...
The growing number of high school football programs unable to field varsity teams in 2026 has claimed another victim.
Oberlin High School announced it has canceled its varsity football season after participation numbers dropped below a level the district determined was safe to compete, leaving players — particularly seniors — scrambling to salvage their final season.
According to the Oberlin City School District, 14 students attended a football interest meeting on July 29, giving administrators optimism the Phoenix would have enough players to move forward. But when mandatory preseason camp opened Aug. 3, only six to eight players reported.
Athletic director Julian Acosta-Gorman said the district explored every reasonable option before concluding it could not safely field a varsity team with such limited participation.
The decision makes Oberlin the latest school this preseason to cancel varsity football because of low numbers, continuing a troubling national trend that has affected programs in several states, including Ohio, Missouri, Iowa and Illinois, among others.
For Oberlin families, however, the decision is deeply personal.
Barbara Boone, whose son Brian is entering his senior season, told WKYC.com the cancellation was devastating after years of commitment to the program.
"My son has played his heart out for this school and this district," Boone said. "We're upset. I just feel like we weren't told."
Boone said her family has long supported the program, even after Brian suffered a torn ACL during his sophomore season. The cancellation, she said, has taken away milestones every senior football player anticipates.
"I watched my son on Wednesday break down because this is his senior year and it's been ripped from him," Boone told the station.
Another parent, Jennifer Brown, said families believed the season would continue after players had recently received helmets, jersey numbers and other equipment.
"We were all led to believe that we were going to have a season all the way up until Wednesday at 11 a.m.," Brown said.
The district is now exploring whether Oberlin players can compete elsewhere this fall under Ohio's recently enacted Student Athlete Mobility Act. School officials are working with the Ohio High School Athletic Association and neighboring districts to determine what opportunities, if any, are available for affected athletes.
The uncertainty is especially difficult for seniors hoping to experience traditions such as senior night, homecoming and one final season with longtime teammates.
While district officials continue searching for solutions for this year's players, they say the long-term focus is rebuilding participation so Oberlin can return to the field in 2027.
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Published Aug 8, 2026
GARY ADORNATO
Gary Adornato is the Publisher of High School On SI. He began covering high school sports with the Baltimore Sun in 1982. In 2003, he became one of the first journalists to cover high school sports online while operating MIAASports.com, the official website of the Maryland Interscholastic Athletic Association. Later, Adornato pioneered market-wide coverage of high school sports with DigitalSports.com, introducing video highlights and player interviews while assembling an award-winning editorial staff. In 2010, he launched VarsitySportsNetwork.com which became the premier source of high school media coverage in the state of Maryland. In 2022, he sold VSN to The Baltimore Banner and joined High School On SI as East Coast Managing Editor. He took over as VP of Content in 2024 and assumed the title of Publisher in 2026.
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