Historic Clifton Mill

Went to view the Christmas lights for the first time. Absolutely breath taking is all I can say. I HIGHLY recommend visiting. I'm from Texas and was just blown away. Had great parking with security was able to purchase hot coco or coffee. Just had a great time. Will DEFINITELY go back.

We come back year after year to see this dazzling display. More than 5 Million lights, miniature village, a Santa museum, and more. Plus pop corn and hot cocoa and of course the choreographed light show, and it's a must visit for the holiday season.

We has a great time visiting. There is so many lights. Be prepared that on our visit is was very muddy in the parking lot. The grounds were ok at the mill. A great light show. Hot chocolate hit the spot.

We went to the light festival the Saturday after Christmas. It was still very busy but manageable. We realized after parking in the lot across the river that there were two entrances, one from the parking side and one from the town side. This is why there were so many locals offering parking in their homes. If the parking appears full that is an option. We were not sure if the Display would be worth the 15 dollar entrance feebut it was. The bridge light show was fun as was the miniature village and trains. The lights were exactly as pictured on the advertising. If coming I would recommend coming during the weekday nights as mentioned we were there AFTER Christmas and it was still very crowded. An overcrowded space would definitely diminish the experience. But overall, worth the trip.

The lights were a beautiful site to see. We had some hot chocolate and visited the Santa display room. So many different Santas. The kids really enjoyed seeing the real Santa popping out of chimney and singing and talking with the crowd! It was very crowded even on a Wednesday evening. My mom was in a wheelchair (lightweight chair/small wheels) and it did not work well in the gravel. She ended up using it as a walker but could not navigate the crowd in many places. None of the areas were paved.

It was worth seeing once. Pretty crowded they should limit tickets. You can see the lights, get some hot chocolate, look into the window of santas work shop or check out the santa museum. It's like max an hour of entertainment. They do the music light every half hour and santa comes out at the end.

We had lunch at the Clifton Mill yesterday for my wife's birthday. This was our first time here and the place was wonderful. The mill and setting with a walkable covered bridge was very picturesque. The water running through the the stream and mill race was soothing. The food portions were generous and prepared well. We all had breakfast items that are served all day. The place is only open for breakfast and lunch I believe. Our server was excellent and kept my coffee cup filled. I get the pancakes which were just huge. If you finish off the first two in the order they will give you a third one free. I failed the challenge and took my leftover pancakes home. They have an extraordinary display of lights and other wonders at Christmas. We intend on coming back to try other items.

A nice picturesque restaurant. The food was nice and reasonably priced. The grounds were a little rough but it was off season for this place. In Christmas time it is very busy and recommended to get there early.

UPDATE: I have recently now been to Clifton Mill three times, two times during the fall season-- and let me just say that the crowds are so much better during the fall than Christmas. Sure, everyone should see their Christmas lights display at least one time in their life (see previous review, the crowds are crazy!)-- but I think my favorite time to come here is during the fall when I'm hiking in the gorge or John Bryan State Park. I still have not sat down and eaten food at the mill (it's on my list!), but I have loved to browse the gift store and walk around the property. The fall colors are spectacular in yellow springs during mid October, and this mill is the perfect backdrop to all things fall in Ohio!

Pros: Located in historic Yellow Springs Restaurant and gift shop Friendly service Cons: Food was pricey and only meh Mill wasn't working and was unclear if it is ever open for tours Gift shop has pancake mix, but it is super expensive as are all the nick nacks Parking is limited Ice cream is grocery store brand; missed opportunity partnering with Young's Dairy Out of the way from downtown Yellow Springs Walking bridge closed for repairs Pro tip: Skip a mid-week visit and come when they have their Christmas lights up

How great! So many pictures to share. The food was very good and very reasonably priced. The pancakes were some of the biggest I've ever seen! The service was good and it was timely. The interior is lots of natural wood and is very cozy.

We stopped in for lunch on Memorial weekend Saturday. There was a wait for a table but not too bad. The wait for the food was kind of long so plan on that. We had a table by the water. It was a great view. I had a buttermilk pancake and eggs. My husband had the Reuben. The pancake as everyone says is huge! I ate about a third of it. My husband is a Reuben fanatic and this one passed the test. My only complaint is that the mill museum area as described on the website is not open on Saturday. The young lady said that also something is broke in there. Oh well. Lunch was good and the views awesome.

Christmas lights review: excellent! It was worth the 1 hour drive to see this spectacle! Lights lights lights, plus Santa - real deal guy, waving at us from the rooftop! My husband was ecstatic! -- plus an enormous miniature village with so many fun details, plus a Santa display that defies description. Had a hot cocoa too, with lots of whipped cream. Cute tiny store. And - spoiler alert- there's a musical light display! We were caught off guard on this one and were delightfully surprised and mesmerized. Know before you go: hard to see the parking signage in the deep dark night, but look for the staffers with lighted batons. We went on week night and had manageable crowds and no difficulty parking in the adjacent lot. The web cites food available including sandwiches but we saw only popcorn and pretzels, so eat before you go. Can be pricey so be sure you enjoy every bit of the Christmas marvelousness!

My son goes to a nearby college and many parents had recommended this place. We finally decided to try it while visiting him. We went for lunch on a Sunday. We had about a 40 minute wait. The outside mill area was nice to view during the wait. The server was very kind and friendly. The pancake was huge! The Rueben sandwich and burger were fine.

Was it awesome YES Was it worth the money NO $15 a person? No restaurant no bathroom just Porta pots. The drive there is crazy scary and the gift shop is sad.

Since this is such an aesthetic restaurant in a historical part of town, I want to give it all the benefit of the doubt. They offer a beautiful and clear view of the mill outside of the windows and it has a cozy, rustic log cabin feel inside. I got the mushroom omelet with American cheese. When our waitress handed me my slightly burning hot plate, it was covered in grease and sticky. The mushrooms were very filling and I couldn't finish the whole meal. They do have gluten free sorghum pancakes but you can't substitute them with anything; they have to come plain Our waitress was very to-the-point and very quick taking our orders when i could have used a couple more minutes reading the menu. Multiple times she said no to our questions abruptly with little explanation. I did enjoy the little gift shop and the view. This place could be cleaned up a bit and revised, but otherwise I still will be back to enjoy the historical mill.

Ultimate country breakfast spot. Great service, delicious corned beef hash, coffee is spot on.

As far as Christmas lights go.... Clifton Mills grossly downsized their lights display. Literally a small squared section of lights with only a santa museum, overpriced cafeteria of popcorn and $8.50 cocoa, plus a santa workshop you can only look into windows of. Sure, the light show is great, but considering everything takes only 15 minutes and cost $15 per person! Dont waste your time or money!

You don't come here for the food, not that the food stinks, but it's average AT BEST. Burgers come out dry, but if you get breakfast food you can't go wrong, but your sausage will be dry too. You come here for the Christmas store and amazing Christmas lights and scenery. This truly is a beautiful place. This place used to be (don't think it still is) a grain mill. At night you can come here for the Christmas light show, with a nativity scene as well.

This was a short drive from Yellow Springs and we hadn't had lunch yet. After finishing up earlier than expected at Yellow Springs we drove to Clifton Mill for the first time in years. Although there was already a decent size crowd there we were able to get a table for lunch in 20 minutes. With a table by the window with a view of the creek and the covered bridge we were promptly waited on and got our beverages. We both opted for a cup of soup that came with a huge piece of cornbread. Frankly the cup of soup was more like a bowl and was very filling. The thought of dessert eft our minds as we were too stuffed. Service was very good and attentive. Our glass/cup was always filled. It's only a few minutes away from the Clifton Gorge which we visited after lunch.

Got a craving for pancakes? Come hungry and you'll get your fill at Clifton Mill in Clifton, Ohio. Ask for a box...you'll need it. Or, just take a hike at John Bryan State Park first and eat both humongous pancakes and you'll get a third one free.

Service was pretty good all of the waiters were very attentive and nice to us. Food was buss, i got the french toast and it tasted really good. Overall the atmosphere was cool and we walked around the side of the building to see all the cool stuff. Nice place.

Stopped on a road trip and had a great experience. Just two of us having lunch. The food was delicious and service was excellent. All of the staff was extremely friendly. They were also putting up the holiday lights for the upcoming season. Hope to make it to see that!

The food was average. I had chicken salad on whole wheat. It was a little different than chicken salad I've had in the past, not in a bad way. It had whole grapes, almonds, celery, chicken and a creamy sauce. The pancakes which my wife had were as big as the plate and you got 2 of them. Service was good and it was like going back in time because inside and out was like going back to the 1800's

Excellent food and service! Wonderful view! It can get very busy on a Sunday morning. Give yourself plenty of time.

Stopped here as a diversion on a road trip. The mill is certainly photogenic to say the least. I was disappointed the mill was not operating when I visited. I really wanted to see the inner workings below the ground level. But during October they are busy prepping the Christmas lights for the upcoming holiday season. So there are no mill tours. I did eat in their restaurant just behind the gift shop. The seating is limited. I expect it could be packed during their busy season. I was there late afternoon about 1 hour before closing. It was me and two other tables being served. Food was mediocre but not bad. Prices very reasonable. I was expecting to pay more. Service was good and friendly. I had fun walking the grounds photographing the mill and the covered bridge.

The food was good and the service was excellent! The surrounding grounds are very pleasant.

You have to stop at the mill anytime you're in yellow springs. The view alone is worth it. Not to mention some of biggest pancakes I've ever see. As usual we had great service with multiple people checking us to see if we needed anything. Our food was out sighing 10-15 mins. As someone who loves biscuits and gravy they have the best gravely anywhere I've ever been. When you're done take a stroll over to their covered bridge. They are also right by the best hiking trail with multiple falls to see.

Tony Vanoy & I went to Ohio today August 19, 2020 to see the Historical Clifton Mills built-in 1802. It is a 5 story building located along the Miami River that runs through the Clifton Gorge Nature Park. The Mill is free to walk around. There are other outside buildings including a covered bridge. There is a gift shop, restaurant and you can take a half hour tour for $3 Great place to visit. They also WON the Christmas Light Competition on TV last season. Definitely recommend all to visit.

A Dayton area holiday tradition the Clifton Mill holiday lights display. This year limited to 25% capacity which actually made it nice to walk around and see the lights and displays. The main attraction are the lights over the mill, covered bridge and water which helps power the mill. Admission is $10 a person & there's plenty of free parking by the mill. Several locals we're trying to have you pay for parking in their yards but is not necessary. The Santa collection has over 3,500 Santa's from around the world collected by one family. Santa has his workshop and says Hi to visitors from the top of the chimney. There's a huge train display, covered bridge and light show. The light show only had one Trans Siberian Orchestra song, know it's hard to program the lights but would be cool to have more than one song.

We did stop at the Mill the best views were from the bridge. I wish they had some viewing windows inside so you could see the working mill. The grounds could use some updating.

Great place to come. Even not doing the holidays. You can come walk the gorge even in the summer. Has nice trails. Decent gift shop. It's just a getaway when you want to get away. Is this a place I would take a friend that came from out of town during the holidays? Yes, 100%

We went for breakfast....hour drive. we went early and there was no wait. Breakfast was a tasty. Waitstaff very friendly . It's a place of history, buildings are old. Go with the expectation it's not a fancy upscale meal. Enjoy the day.

Good breakfast, cute restaurant with lots of history. Service was good. My only complaint was the restroom which was slightly dirty...they had been very busy before we were there so I'm not knocking them for that because I'm sure they were understaffed.

This is a lovely place to visit and enjoy the scenery and food. In addition it has a store with lovely items for sale. Our experience was awesome. The food was good and so was the service. We ordered the grilled chicken sandwich and a cheeseburger. However, the ONLY sides they offer is French fries or chips (which was a bit disappointed as they should be able to offer more of a variety such as coleslaw or apple square (in my opinion). The BEST part of my meal was the hot apple pie a la mode with chocolate ice cream. Next time I visit, will order the breakfast instead. Mind you, when we arrived it was after 4 pm and was empty (it closes at 5 pm). We were attended by 2 waitresses which was odd. The prices are very reasonable and what make it so amazing is the scenery and it's history. When asked about the history of the restaurant, it was established in 1802. They have pictures on all walls which makes it interesting. We were informed that one of the best times to visit is during the Christmas Holidays. It's definitely a place you would like to visit with friends or family during any season and take amazing pictures.

Went for Christmas lights. Not worth the $15 admission. Done in 15 minutes and that included waiting in line to see the Santa museum . Lots of people so hard to see much

It's an okay place. The atmosphere around the mill is wonderful. The mill itself could use a deep cleaning and the menu could use a little bit of an update. The food was okay, some better than other food. My family was not overly impressed. We might give it another try sometime but it's not high on our list of places to try.

Restaurant rating: From the other reviews, this must be the place for good old-fashioned pancakes (which were not selected on this visit). The omelettes were huge, both the mushroom-stuffed and the "everything" omelette. There were 2 large chunks of mushroom, that's it, and they were barely sauteed. Both omelettes were dry -- very dry. When we asked for butter (due to the texture of the omelettes) we were met with a "dead stare". The toast? Well, it wasn't really toast, it was more like bread that had a slight roughness on the outside. Leaving it in the toaster longer would have improved the crispiness. Service was OK, not super-friendly or welcoming, just a bit abrupt. It was as if the staff did not want to be there, did not really care about hearing your comments or feedback. Those characteristics seem more common in diner in a metropolis, not a small town tourist destination. The items hanging from the ceiling of the "general store" (front of restaurant) provide a visual history. Area rating: Other than the fact it's a working mill, which is fascinating & historical, the grounds were not impressive (this visit was late spring), nor were the buildings that surround the mill. It would be nice to have signage, historical makers, to make this a well-rounded tourist experience. NOTE for wait staff: guests are within earshot of your comments about other employees. Save those comments for your breaks outside the premises.

Visited the weekend following Christmas. The lights and the mill are quite beautiful this time of year. They really go all out, with a covered bridge light show, spinning mill wheel of lights, and even a miniature village with model trains and animated people and cars. Prior to Christmas you can meet Santa. You can also admire their large collection of Santa kitsch, or stroll around the gift shop. This was a fun off-the-beaten-path stop. Be mindful though, it is rather quaint. I'm not exactly sure we got a full ten dollars worth, but in the end it was only ten dollars.

This is my favorite place for breakfast. The service is awesome. I love grist mills and this one has lots of history. Don't forget to go see the Christmas lights. Though you have to pay, it will be an experience to remember.

The restaurant is interesting and the view of the stream is great. Service is adequate.The food is plentiful and good.

Wife and I were out for a drive to Yellow Springs October 20th and stopped in for a late breakfast. Had to wait about 15 minutes(which was fine). The service was pretty good, coffee was real good. The biscuits and gravy was darn good. Wife ordered waffles well done but they came out not even close to crispy. lacking flavor as well. Might go back and try something else some day.

Went to Clifton Mill for breakfast, and it was amazing! I ordered the Banana Split Pancakes with a Hot Chocolate and both were excellent. The pancakes are huge - you won't believe it 'til you see it! Definitely recommend.

Very picturesque! I went early to beat the crowds and I am glad I did. It was busy when I got there but as I was leaving the crowds were pouring in. Go early! I walked around the property and I was able to take the picture attached via the covered bridge. There is a nice small area inside selling crafts and antiques. I had breakfast when visited. I ordered the blueberry pancakes. The pancakes were huge, the size of a dinner plate. The pancakes were good just a little dry. There was no room on the plate to pour syrup without it coming off the plate. While visiting be sure to check out the gorge. Enjoy your visit!

Giant pancakes! Nice Folksy atmosphere. Beautiful setting! Great Service! We will return!

Looking for a Christmas outing? Clifton Mill Christmas Lights! Gorgeous! My first visit and for us it was worth the drive. Lights turn on at 6pm. Cost $10 a person to enter. 3 years and under free. Parking is free. I think they should have kid pricing. Maybe $5 for 10 year old and under. But I feel the $10 help cover lights, music, staff and etc. Every 30 mins there is a light show in the Cover Bridge area. Place to see vintage Santa's, sleds and toys. Take a look at Santa in the toy shop and then come through the chimney on the roof. Village scene has many moving pieces and memory triggers, nativity, work area, and inside treats. There are restroom in the restaurant but porta-john available. Seating inside restaurant to warm up and the porch gives a wonderful view of the covered bridge. Arrive early in evening before it gets crowded. Walkable, there were people in wheelchairs and babies in strollers- everyone seemed to be able to see everything.

I came here the day after the 4th of July with my family. We were told it would be a 30 minute wait. I understood because it was the day after a holiday and most people are still off work. We ended up walking around the premise and even got a private tour. After that, we were still waiting, but finally got seated an hour later. It was clear they are understaffed which is not their fault but still a little frustrating when we are told 30 minutes. Once we were seated, everything went very quick and smoothly. I was disappointed to hear they were out of the gluten free pancakes but the waitress helped me pick an alternative. Our waitress was amazing and got us in and out very efficiently. I love the scenery and vibe. Food was amazing.

DO not waste your money!!! It was fine when it was $5.00 a person but ...$10.00 for anyone over 6 years old is way too costly! I took the photos from near the bridge which is ultimately the best view of their display! Buy your kids socks, shoes or a new coat !! What a rip off!! Only open until 9 pm so we showed up at 8:15pm which means we would have spent $60 for 1 adult over 18 and 5 children between 8-15 and.. looked at the same lights we saw for free !! Boooo No music either - used to have music coordinated light show... it was Saturday night & prime time - no music or light coordination!

With the landscape surrounding the Mill and the tasty food inside, it is very difficult to rate Clifton Mill anything but a 5 Star. Had a tasty Reuben with Fries today along with a Hot Chocolate. The food was served hot and complete. The dining area was clean, spacious, and well lit. After our lunch, we browsed their gift shop that contains many unique items and gifts including pancake mixes made on premises. Take the time to visit Clifton, Ohio and enjoy a meal at Clifton Mill.

Several guys met there for lunch during an event on a Monday. The scenery was spectacular on the grist mill wheel and the stream. Server was friendly,knowledgeable, and very good at her job! They had a rotating soup menu but was out of the bean. I was notified they had a chicken Gumbo so I ordered that! Oh boy was that a twist of fate in my favor! Chicken Gumbo was some of the best soup I ever had! It even had Okra which I love! I had a half sandwich that was a BLT. It was OK The other guys I don't have feedback on but I DIDN't hear any complaints. I hear they have pancakes as big as the plate? Might have to they Breakfast or dinner there soon!

Holy cow this mill is so pretty at night during the Holidays. A bit of a drive for us but decided to head in up and see the lights. Got to see(and talk!) to good old Saint Nick as he climbs out of his little workshop and up and through the chimney. It's quite entertaining for the kids(ok me a little as well) to be able to see such a perfect Santa that's not a robot or just sitting in a chair and having kids come and go to talk to them on being good or bad. Remember those days before Covid!? Living the life back then. The magic just isn't with Santa. It's all of these lights and little basic daily living activities they have set up. Imagine a drive in movie, a race track, a football game and a couple small trains that run around the little park. It really is kind of cool. They try their best at Social distancing, parking was a bit of a trek and the line was crazy long but went somewhat speedy. These folks have been here for what seems like forever so they must be doing something right.

This place has amazing buckwheat pancakes that are as big as a plate. I don't get anything else on purpose.

There was nothing particularly bad about this restaurant--and the staff was friendly and attentive--but there was nothing to make one to go out of the way to eat here. They claim a country store is on premises, but I be damned if there was anything that could qualify as a store. The food was ok and I enjoyed my oversized pancakes. If you're passing by and you need to eat, stop in! But don't drive out your way to get here.

This place has a beautiful view and a great little gift shop. Not to mention friendly service. But I wasn't crazy about the food we tried. The Mill Fries were absolutely loaded with cheese sauce, but it just wasn't for me. The sauce reminded of the fake goopy stuff you get at a sports stadium. However, my husband thought that's what made it delicious! We also tried the potato bowls. They're the same thing as potato skins, but the potatoes are cut the opposite way. Then they're filled with shredded cheese and bacon and served with a side of sour cream. I loved the crispyness of the potato and the great amount of bacon, but it was very under seasoned. I would love to go back and try something different. Maybe breakfast?

Worst restaurant ever. I am 71 and have ate at many restaurant in my life. I have not liked their service, but my wife likes the location. I go because she wants to. We checked the hours of service before we went, the close at 4 PM, we were there at 3:15 they said they weren't seating any more customers by then. We drove about half an hour to get there, they still said no. There were not many people there. One time they even asked my wife and her friend to move one time after they seated her, because someone else wanted her seat. If you do t mind being treated like crap, be my guest. I KNOW THEY WILL NEVER SEE ME OR MY WIFE AGAIN. If they had less than 1 star they would get it

The place still looks just as awful as ever, staff are hateful and the food is still some of the worst in the area. Stay away unless you're a magpie or an old lady who likes Christmas kitsch. There's literally nothing else of note here. Visit Sunrise Cafe or The Winds in Yellow Springs instead.

Really good price for the food. My Reuben was one of the better ones I've had because of the homemade dressing. The pancakes are massive! Nice quick service from Lisa!