While Kent has many unique and bustling businesses to choose from, here are a mix of old and new Kent institutions that are doing something unique, something special and something unmistakably Kent.
Popped!
Open since January 2012, Popped! offers handmade popcorn and chocolates from fresh, local ingredients.
Owner Gwen Rosenberg explains, “All our popcorn is grown in Ohio, the butter comes straight from a family-owned dairy, and even the packaging is made right here in Kent. Our unique popcorn and chocolates come from the highest quality ingredients and our recipes were created to let the fresh, homemade taste shine through.”
Popped! is a place for families to stop in for a quick treat or snack, and enjoy the courtyard outside the shop and snag a photo with the unofficial mascot of Kent, the black squirrel.
There is something for every taste bud from the Signature Caramel Popcorn to the spicy Firehouse Caramel to the creamy Chocolate Acorns with peanut butter or caramel.
Popped! is located at 175 E. Erie St., Suite 201.
4Cats Arts Studio – Acorn Alley
4Cats Acorn Alley is a professional arts studio for everyone where children and families can visit to create their very own art.
“The name, 4Cats, is inspired by the 4Cats Cafe in Barcelona, Spain,” co-owner Joelle Liedtke says. “The 4Cats Cafe (Els Quatre Gats) is the place where Picasso went with artist, poet and philosopher friends to discuss art and life, and make and show, great art. This is what we do — create masterpieces and talk about art.”
The studio is filled with all the tools and materials that one would need to make their own masterpiece. There are weekly classes and summer camps for children ages 2 to 15.
4Cats Art Studio is located at 144 E. Main St.
Woodsy’s Music
Woodsy’s, established in 1972, is an independent, family-owned and operated music store.
Woodsy’s is truly a place for music lovers to discover new music, re-discover golden oldies or just talk to other people who have a passion for music. Musicians can purchase a new guitar or bring in an old favorite for a repair. Teenagers — or adults — can find that perfect album to listen to on a Friday night. And, everyone can find whatever he or she is looking for with the help of employees.
Music lessons are also available in piano, trumpet, guitar, drums and more.
Woodsy’s is located at 135 S. Water St.
McKay Bricker Framing
McKay Bricker Framing’s origins began in 1984. Now, with 30 years of experience under its belt, the company has evolved through many expansions and revitalizations to keep up with the demand of the growing Kent area.
In addition to framing, McKay Bricker provides Kent with Black Squirrel Gifts, books, music, jewelry, apparel and more. The unofficial mascot of Kent, the black squirrel, can be purchased on T-shirts, mugs, stickers and baseball caps.
McKay Bricker is located at 141 E. Main St.
Off the Wagon
Off the Wagon is a toy store that focuses on novelty items, gag gifts, games and toys.
“People come in our store often just for laughs,” Michelle Sahr, owner, says. “Popular funny items include bacon-flavored mints and lip balm, an inflatable unicorn horn for your cat, handerpants (underwear for your hands) and the crazy cat lady action figure.”
Off the Wagon is located in Acorn Alley, right in the heart of Kent. Free Comic Book day, a national annual event in May, is one of the store’s biggest happenings.
The shop provides fun, unique items in a family-friendly way.
“Unlike other gag shops, we keep our product selection safe for families,” Sahr says. “Not only do we have great gags, but we have a nice selection of unique and novelty toys.”
Off the Wagon is located at 152 E. Main St.
