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Must-Visit Cozy Spots and Exciting Activities in Portsmouth-Scioto County


Whether you are out braving the chilly winter trails or looking for a place to spend some time out of the house and of the cold, there's nothing better than discovering a spot to get all warm and cozy! From local coffee shops serving up a delightful variety of hot (and cold) drinks to lively local hangouts that add a splash of fun!


Local Coffee Shops



Woman in a café sipping from a blue mug, smiling. Striped shirt, pizza on table. Warm, cozy setting with wooden shelves and decor.
Warm up with a nice cup of Joe at Lofts Coffee Company and Roastery!

This is a perfect place to cozy up with a nice hot beverage! Lofts is a unique place where the coffee is locally roasted right there on site! They offer everything from your standard cup of joe to flavored frappes to specialty drinks like martinis and mules. Looking for a light meal or a sweet treat? Lofts also has delicious pastries, sandwiches, salads, soups, and hors d'oeuvres that pair well with their drinks!


Local Favorite: White Chocolate Latte paired with one of their sweet treats!



Cookies with red and blue icing drizzles on a white plate in a bakery display. Background shows cinnamon rolls. Bright and colorful.
Enjoy a delicious pastry or cookie from Market Street Cafe, all while you are warming from the outside elements.

This local cafe offers up an assortment of foods that will fill your bellies up for breakfast or lunch! From freshly baked goods like scones, muffins, and cookies to light food fare of wraps, soups, and paninis. Round out your meal by enjoying a nice cup of hot coffee, fruit smoothie, or even create your own coffee smoothie!


Local Favorite: Snicker Bar Latte paired with one of their blueberry scones!


Adams Flying Pig Coffee House (both Minford and Wheelersburg locations)


Red coffee cup with "Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House" sleeve, surrounded by coffee beans. Blurred background, warm tones, cozy mood.
When the weather is cold, warm up with your favorite hot drink at Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House! Photo by Justin Sharp Photography

Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House offers all kinds of coffee concoctions from their signature Flying Pig Mocha to a traditional hot chocolate. These warm drinks are served from warm hearts as this coffee house is staffed by those with special needs. So not only can you warm your bellies with a warm drink, but warm your heart with a happy smile!


Local Favorite: Flying Pig Mocha paired with a sugar waffle!

 

Exciting Indoor Fun



Boy in red shirt playing retro arcade games in a dimly lit room. Cabinets display colorful screens. Mood is nostalgic and playful.
Play classic arcade games or modern games for some friendly competition at the Vault Ohio!

Are you into retro arcade games? Do you have an inkling to try out Virtual Reality? The Vault Ohio has both and more! Grab your friends and family for some friendly gaming competition. Whether you want to go old school with arcade games, play some new modern games on console or PC or put on a headset for some VR, the Vault Ohio is a perfect place to warm up.


Pro tip: Check out their schedule of events as they have several tournaments that you can either participate or spectate!



Child and adult painting a ceramic sculpture with a rainbow design in an art studio. Colorful chairs and aprons hang in the background.
Craft your own pieces of art at the Happy Pot!

Embark on an incredible pottery painting journey at The Happy Pot, a one-of-a-kind studio for everyone, regardless of age or skill level! Unleash your creativity with an extensive array of pottery, bright glazes, and exciting techniques. With space for up to 40 painters, it's perfect for solo relaxation or lively group gatherings. Delight in special painting sessions, festive holiday events, and workshops featuring guest artists. The Happy Pot is your ultimate destination for creativity and thrilling events!


Pro tip: Painting pottery isn't the only art creation you can make, ask about other art creative options!



Three people holding signs in front of a "DEADBOLT" wall: "WHO INVITED THESE COCONUTS??", "WE ESCAPED THE ISLAND", and "I WAS THE CHOSEN ONE... #SACRIFICE".
Can you figure out how to escape? Try your luck at Deadbolt Boneyfiddle Escape Rooms and Mysteries!

Nestled in the lively center of the historic Boneyfiddle district, Deadbolt provides exhilarating 60-minute escape room adventures within the distinctive Deadbolt Warehouse, once a shoe factory in Portsmouth, Ohio. Designed by lifelong friends to inject excitement into Portsmouth, Deadbolt draws families and friends each weekend to engage in scenarios and break free from reality. What began as a pastime has enthralled the whole town, realizing the dreams of its creators.


Pro tip: Book your time slot in advance as tickets sell fast!


Conclusion


Whether you having out hiking the trails of Shawnee State Park or looking for something fun to do during the day, you can find all kinds of places to warm up and have fun! Escape the winter chill with cozy spots like Lofts Coffee Company for locally roasted coffee, Market Street Cafe for baked goods and customizable smoothies, and Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House with heartwarming drinks. For indoor activities, enjoy games at The Vault Ohio, pottery painting at The Happy Pot, and thrilling escape adventures at Deadbolt: Boneyfiddle Escape Rooms. Find warmth and fun in these local gems!

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