Redbone Willy’s is more than just a general store – it’s Glenda B. Miller’s labor of love. She opened its doors on April 1, 1995, driven by the desire to create something that felt familiar and full of warmth. Almost 30 years later, you can see and feel her success. The store is one of those rare places that makes you feel instantly at home. It also makes you want to buy everything to bring home with you.

The space embraces the simplicity of days gone by. Walk up the stairs and through the screen door and your eyes can barely take in all the goodness. Cowboy flannels to your left. Steampunk hats on display to your right ready for you model. Necklaces dangle from silver boho skulls on the wall. Fresh apple turnover lay on the counter, their aroma speaking directly to your stomach. There’s a story in every corner, from the handpicked antiques to the thoughtful décor – there’s even a whole legend dedicated to the store’s namesake.

Wander further into the shop and you’ll find everything from antique treasures, handmade furniture, and homemade jams and jellies. Redbone Willey’s is not a quick grab and get out kind of store. It’s a place where you can take your time, sipping on a glass-bottled soda as you rock on the porch or challenge a stranger to a game of checkers.

When you’ve shopped up an appetite, the Bonehead Café is right inside. You’ll find the menu on a giant chalkboard on the front porch. Every sandwich and dish are made fresh. Order up the hearty Big Daddy Burger or the Toluca ‘Mater Melt. Pair your choice with fresh-squeezed lemonade, orangeade, or good old Southern Sweet Tea, and you’ve got yourself a meal to write home about.

But, we’re not done yet. It’s time for dessert. Try a piece of Peggy’s red velvet cake. Grab a slice of sea-salt caramel fudge. The highlight here is their homemade ice cream custard, perfected over more than a year of trial and error to achieve that perfect creamy texture. It’s the kind of treat you can’t stop talking about and a reason to come back for a second visit.

If you need a nap after your meal, you have the option to extend your stay at the DeStarte’ Bed and Breakfast Inn next door. Imagine a beautiful, two-story Queen Anne Victorian house nestled in 85 acres of countryside. It’s the perfect blend of history and comfort, with five unique bedrooms that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a time capsule–but with all the modern touches you need to truly relax. Each room is named after a cherished family horse, adding a personal touch that connects guests to Glenda’s world.

Redbone Willy’s is just one of the stores in Upper Cleveland County filled with "I never seen that" and "I didn’t know I needed that" kind of items. You could spend hours or days wandering the aisles and figuring out which wooden log Edison lamp would look perfect in your living room. Or which new necklace would make the girls at work jealous.

For a full list of stores, restaurants and lodging off the beaten path, check out our online directory of the best places you haven’t heard of yet. The checkerboard is waiting on your next move.