Lewis acid ZnCl2 promoted cyclization protocol to 4H-chromenes is accomplished, using readily available phenols and acetophenones as starting materials. Interestingly, the process is feasible under the solvent free environment. Synthesis of a variety of 4H-chromenes have been accomplished using this strategy. In addition, this concept is extended to the synthesis of ortho-benzylphenols by treating phenols either with styrenes or secondary benzylic alcohols. © 2019, © 2019 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.