Browse the original outdoor mall at Grand Pacific Junction

By Laura Briedis

If you enjoy shopping and dining—or just strolling around—Grand Pacific Junction is a must-visit destination.

Skirted by railroad tracks and within walking distance of a covered bridge and waterfalls in Olmsted Falls, this original depot village was transformed into a shopping and entertainment district by Clint Williams Realty 30 years ago.

Home to 30 unique specialty shops and restaurants, which are housed in Victorian and Greek Revival restored buildings, you’ll find vintage items, fashionable clothing, unique gifts like music boxes and dolls, and much more.

“In a generation of impersonal internet sales, we work to promote the small business shopping experience with a more personal touch,” says Thomas Osborne, president of the Grand Pacific Junction Merchants Association.

Sprinkled throughout the area are locally owned eateries, where you can enjoy sandwiches, Italian dinner specialties or Mexican fare. Or, stop in for a hand-scooped ice cream cone or popcorn while browsing. Plus, there are stores where you can learn to paint and knit, as well as a barbershop and salons.

During the summer, Grand Pacific Junction hosts special events. The Vintage Marketplace at the Falls is on Sunday, June 30, and Heritage Days is Thursday-Sunday, August 1-4.

Grand Pacific Junction is located at 8082 Columbia Road in Olmsted Falls. For more information, visit GrandPacificJunction.com or Facebook.com/GrandPacificJunction.