Posts with tag 'Local Attractions'

Do you ever feel like you're always rushing to get somewhere? When you long to slow it down, unwind with the relaxed pace of a horseback ride. Enjoy this healthy and eco-friendly activity at one of these top riding facilities around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Chagrin Valley Farms 

9250 Washington St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023

Chagrin Valley Farms has a mission to serve all riders through every stage of the "horsemanship cycle." Whether you're a veteran rider or a first-timer, their experienced staff will help you reach your goal. The 85-acre facility includes two heated indoor arenas and four outdoor rings along with pastures and trails. Group, private, and semi-private lessons are available for all ages. Newcomers take an introductory ride so instructors can accurately assess your level and make sure you receive optimum placement. Visit the website for information about their horsemanship camps for kids that are offered year-round.

River Road Horse Farm

1009 River Rd., Hinckley, OH 44233

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For the owner and caretaker of River Road Horse Farm, horses and riding are literally their life. Both live on-site so they're easily accessible and stay responsive to the needs of the farm, including horses and riders. Owner Mark Palik, who purchased the farm in December 2011, is continually upgrading the facility to provide a superior experience for guests. One recent change was the addition of a second indoor arena. Lessons are offered for riders starting at age 5, so kids can get started on a lifelong appreciation of horsemanship. 

Stable Solutions Farm

12381 Easton St. NE, Alliance, OH 44601

Loree Stubblefield, owner of Stable Solutions Farm, knows firsthand how powerful the connection between people and horses can be. After Loree's father was stricken with a brain injury and her daughter was diagnosed with a heart condition, she made the decision to run the farm while caring for her family. Today, Stable Solutions is known for its many equine therapy programs, which benefit those with special physical, emotional, and social needs. Guests also love the miniature Australian shepherds raised by Loree's family, who are frequently wandering the grounds.

Sid Griffith Equestrian Center

7380 Scioto Darby Rd., Hilliard, OH 43026

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The story of Sid Griffith, founder of the popular equestrian center than bears his name, is something of a legend. At the age of 11, when his parents refused to indulge his early love of horses, Sid began working at a dude ranch in order to earn riding time. After purchasing his first horse with money from his 16th birthday, Sid went on to an illustrious career riding, showing, and training horses. These days, Sid remains active running his full-service equestrian center along with his wife and their youngest daughter, an award-winning rider in her own right. 

Field of Dreams

1841 Unbridled Way, Blacklick, OH 43004

You would be forgiven for thinking Field of Dreams is a baseball diamond. The name refers to owner Jennifer Hansen's childhood dream to own a horse. After graduating from law school at Ohio State University, Jennifer finally got her wish and wanted to share the experience with other kids who also thought their dream was unattainable. In addition to offering traditional riding programs, Field of Dreams is the home of Dreams on Horseback, a non-profit organization founded by Jennifer that provides therapeutic riding programs.

Horse-N-Round Fun, LLC

Mount Sterling, OH 43143

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Picture yourself on the back of a magnificent horse, enjoying the serenity of nature as you leave the rest of civilization behind. Horse-N-Round Fun, LLC conducts trail rides from 30 minutes to four hours for riders ages 10 and up. You'll pass through peaceful wooded areas, cross gentle streams, and share the space with wild turkeys, rabbits, deer, and other wildlife. If you have a specific trail you want to ride, Horse-N-Round Fun can also bring the horses to you. Hand-led trail rides are available for youngsters ages 4 and up so they don't have to be left out. Plans are in the works to offer riding lessons and other services, so watch their website for news.

Muddy Water Equestrian Park

10129 Mill Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231

Does the idea of riding a horse appeal to you, but you're not quite confident you can handle it? Muddy Water Equestrian Park wants all visitors to be comfortable with their decision to ride. At 10:30 a.m. on the fourth Sunday of each month, they have a horseback riding seminar to help newbies become familiar with the experience. Afterward, you'll head out on the noon trail riding session. One-hour trail rides are held at noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. each weekend for guests 8 years or older. Price is $30 per person, or $85 if you want to participate in the seminar. Younger kids can have their own staff-led pony rides for only $5.

Winton Woods Riding Center

10073 Daly Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231

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For nearly 70 years, Winton Woods Riding Center has been a leading equestrian facility serving the Cincinnati area. They are known for their outstanding instruction programs as well as their equestrian teams for middle and high school students. Team members get a chance to participate in competitions without having to own a horse. Each Saturday and Sunday at 5:30 p.m., one-hour trail rides are available for ages 7 and up with a fee of $45 per person. Guests are also welcome to bring their own horses and access the trail that's approximately five miles round trip.

East Fork Stables

2215 Snyder Rd., Batavia, OH 45103

Horses are definitely a family affair for George Wisbey, owner of East Fork Stables. As chief of the Cincinnati Fire Department, George's great-grandfather trained the department's horses and later founded the first retirement farm for the fire horses. George, his father, and his grandfather all had successful careers training horses for racing and movies, and his wife Judy runs the summer horse camp. East Fork Stables includes an indoor arena, a riding track around a lake, and 50 miles of trails to accommodate whatever experience you're looking for.

A Horse with No Name

Race horses are known for their quirky, colorful names. If you owned a horse, what name would you choose?

The earliest water-powered mills date back to the Roman Empire. As farming became an increasingly important part of Ohio's economy, mills were so vital to the industry that communities frequently grew around them.

In the 21st century, several mills remain as monuments to the development of agriculture around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Step back in time for a fascinating look at our state's past with a trip to these picturesque historic mills. 

Historic Clifton Mill

75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316

With its red-sided building, giant wheel, and cascading water, picture-perfect Historic Clifton Mill could have been pulled from a movie set. In reality, the authentic 19th-century grist mill is the only one of six mills in the immediate area that remains standing. After touring the mill, stroll across the adjacent 90-foot covered wooden bridge for some spectacular views of the grounds and stop in at the 1940s Gas Station Museum next door. Complete your day with a fresh-cooked meal at the onsite restaurant, serving breakfast and lunch seven days a week. During spring and summer, the mill itself is open weekdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Admission is $3. Call ahead to confirm.

Wolf Creek Mill

St. Rt. 3 South, Loudonville, OH 44842 

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Just over 20 years ago, Mark Smith and his family were camping in nearby Mohican State Park when they discovered Wolf Creek Mill. Sadly, this once-impressive grist mill had fallen into severe disrepair after years of neglect. As a historic restoration contractor, Mark was inspired to form the non-profit Friends of the Mill Group to restore the site's original glory. The mill itself is now back in operating condition, and the group's ultimate goal is to create a historic village, preserving tradition for future generations. Visit the website for hours as well as the schedule of fundraisers, trade fairs, and other events.

Bear's Mill

6450 Arcanum-Bears Mill Rd., Greenville, OH 45331

While the name may sound like a wildlife sanctuary, Bear's Mill is named for Gabriel Baer, the man who constructed the building in 1849. Incredibly, the framework consists of hand-hewn timber beams that are close to 50 feet long without a single splice. But this still-functioning grist mill is about more than commerce. It also houses the Clark Gallery, a space devoted to showcasing a rotating selection of works from local artists, including pottery made by Bear's Mill potters. Admission is free. Hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 1 – 5 p.m. Sunday.

Gaston's Mill

12021 Echo Dell Rd., East Liverpool, OH 43920

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Travel back in time with a visit to Pioneer Village at Beaver Creek State Park. In addition to Gaston's Mill, a fully restored grist mill dating back to 1837, the village is home to a blacksmith shop, chapel, schoolhouse, and a canal-era lock, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beaver Creek State Park and Pioneer Village are open to the public daily at no charge, while Gaston's Mill may be viewed in operation on select weekends during the summer.

Bieber Mill

4919 Chapman Rd., #4801, Delaware, OH 43015 

Tucked away on the banks of the Olentangy River, the ruins of the Bieber Mill might resemble one of the castles from Game of Thrones. In 1848, only a few years after its construction, George Bieber and his son James purchased the original wooden grist mill. James later built a towering stone mill, but lost ownership when he couldn't afford to run the business. Sadly, a fire in the early 1900s destroyed the frame mill and part of the stone mill. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources currently owns the property. They have stabilized the remains and hope to obtain financing for a complete restoration. In the meantime, Bieber Mill's beauty still shines through, making it a popular spot for sightseers and photographers.

Rock Mill

1429 Rockmill Pl. NW, Lancaster, OH 43130

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The current Rock Mill, which is the stunning centerpiece of Stebelton Park, is actually the third structure to bear the name. In the mid-2000s, the building underwent a major restoration, including the creation of a 26-foot all-wood waterwheel, which is the largest one in the state. Across from the waterwheel is a breathtaking 14-foot waterfall, where the Hocking River flows through the gorge. A quaint white covered bridge completes the nostalgic scene. The park is open daily from dawn until dusk, while tours of the mill are offered from noon - 4 p.m. each weekend from May through October.

Sauder Village

22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH 43502

If a history book came to life, it would be Sauder Village. Back in 1976, Erie Sauder built his namesake village as a living tribute to the pioneering spirit that shaped Ohio. Among the 75 historic structures and 50,000 artifacts is a working grist mill, which is used to grind corn into meal for their cooking demonstrations. Visitors also get a chance to try their hand at grinding corn with stones and replicate the method used by Native Americans. Other points of interest include Erie's Farm Shop and the Cabinet Shop, where you can learn more about Erie's other legacy, Sauder Woodworking. Sauder Village opens for the season on May 6. Visit the website for information about hours and admission prices. 

Garrett's Mill & Brewing Company

8148 Main St., Garrettsville, OH 44231

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"Reuse, repurpose, recycle" is today's mantra of environmental awareness, and it's clearly what owners Shelli and Brian Buchanan had in mind when they founded Garrett's Mill & Brewing Company. When it was constructed in 1804, Garrett's Mill served a radius of 20 miles, leading to the development of the town that bears the same name. Shelli and John kept the essence of the mill in creating their brewery and gastropub. In addition to inventive house brews such as Garrett's Gold and Ma Barker Birch Beer, the restaurant serves elevated pub fare. Signature dishes include the "Brewben," with bratwurst subbing for corned beef, and BBQ chicken gouda mac. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, noon - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 7 p.m. Sunday.

Down by the Old Mill Stream

Grist mills produce flour, which is the foundation for many of our favorite foods. Donuts, cakes, bread, pie ... what's number one on your list of baked goods? 

Spring is in the air, and now is the perfect time to enjoy a little bit of tranquility. There are few things more relaxing than taking a walk through lush gardens and beautiful landscapes. While there's no shortage of places to enjoy the outdoors in Ohio, visiting a professionally-cared-for arboretum is a different kind of experience.

It might surprise you to learn that there are many great arboretums in Northeast Ohio and the surrounding area. Here are a few of our favorites.  

The Holden Arboretum

9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094

Spanning more than 3,600 acres, the Holden Arboretum is one of the largest botanical gardens and arboretums in the United States. It features 600 acres that are exclusively dedicated to gardens and collections. This stunning arboretum truly is a"living museum." 

When you visit, you'll have the chance to walk through over 20 miles of trails and explore multiple themed public gardens. They also offer tours and guided hikes. Even better, it's dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend on your adventure with you. 

Seacrest Arboretum

2122 Williams Rd., Wooster, OH 44691

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The Seacrest Arboretum is a free attraction that draws over 10,000 visitors each year. It's located on the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center campus and is open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. This attraction features themed gardens with over 2,500 varieties of plants. You'll love strolling along their paved walkways that run through the over 110 acres of forest, meadows, and gardens. 

This space is perfect for taking a walk or even bringing a picnic lunch. Well-behaved pets on leashes are also welcome. Take a look at their website to learn about their guided walks, plant sales, and other community events.

Gardenview Horticultural Park

16711 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136

A nonprofit arboretum and botanical garden, Gardenview Horticultural Park is open to non-member visitors on weekend afternoons. It features 6 acres of rare plants and flowers displayed in a natural, cottage-style landscape. Since this is a lesser-known garden, it's a great place to enjoy some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle.  

This oasis of lush plants, trees, and unusual flowers is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing walk and the ideal setting for amateur photographers to practice their skills. The $5 admission fee is well worth the cost.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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There's never a shortage of things to explore at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens! Start your adventure at the Conservatory's biodomes, where you'll find over 400 species of plants. These indoor glass greenhouses allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature in any kind of weather.

The John F. Wolfe Palm House is one of the oldest portions of the conservatory. It features 43 different species of palm trees from around the world, many of which are considered endangered in the wild. There are also a variety of outdoor gardens, collections of artwork, and more. The cost of an adult ticket is $19 and includes access to all of the gardens and displays. We're sure you'll find that it's worth every penny! 

Lower Olentangy Urban Arboretum

E. Weber Rd., Columbus, OH 43202

Located in the historic Clintonville area of Colombus, the Lower Olentangy Urban Arboretum is home to hundreds of native trees and shrubs. There are markers identifying some of the trees, and you can print out maps that will guide you to interesting flora in the neighborhood. When you're done checking out the various plant species, make sure to visit the nearby ravines. They're a sight to behold!  

Chadwick Arboretum

152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210

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Chadwick Arboretum is located on the campus of Ohio State University in Columbus. It spans an impressive 62 acres and features various gardens that include native and non-native annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees. While there, you can relax and reflect at The Learning Gardens, explore the Lane Avenue Gardens, and enjoy some time at The Arboretum North. The last is a hidden gem that features over 1,000 native trees, a 3.5-acre research lake stocked with several fish species, and a picnic area. 

Mt. Airy Arboretum

5100 Arboretum Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45223

The 30-acre Mt. Airy Arboretum is a public park that's set within Mt. Airy Forest. It features hundreds of different types of trees as well as garden areas and hiking paths. We recommend walking the 1.4-mile trail, where you'll have a good chance to see wildlife in addition to a wide variety of trees, plants, and flowers. We also recommend packing a picnic lunch so you can enjoy one of their secluded picnic areas while you're there. 

Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum

4521 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232

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You might not think of a cemetery as the best place to spend your free time, but the Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum is an exception! This 1840s cemetery is the third-largest in the United States. It's also an arboretum, offering an expansive collection of both native and exotic plants.

When you visit, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy approximately 450 acres of beautifully landscaped and maintained land. This makes it a "must-see" attraction whether you live in the Cincinnati area or are here visiting. It truly is both a local and a national treasure. 

Stanley Rowe Arboretum

4600 Muchmore Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243

The Stanley Rowe Arboretum is a public space in Cincinnati that is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk. It spans 8.9 acres and features approximately 1,800 different species of trees and plants. There are also several well-kept winding trails and open green spaces where you can enjoy a picnic lunch. 

Each tree and shrub on the grounds is labeled with a small sign that tells you its species and native origin. This makes it a dream come true for those who are into botany and want to learn more about plant classifications. From taking a leisurely walk to settling down with a good book, this arboretum is the perfect place to get away from it all. 

Spring Has Sprung! 

Celebrate the change of season among the area's most beautiful flowers and trees. 

Founded in 1812 with the intention of making it the capital of Ohio, Columbus was always destined for greatness. Over the last two centuries, as Columbus has grown to become the most populous city in the state, it has developed a rich tradition of historical and cultural significance.

Heritage Treasures Day on Monday, January 11 is a perfect occasion to cherish the legacy of Columbus with a visit to these local historic sites.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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The glory of nature is on full display at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Visitors can explore 13 acres of gardens, seasonal displays, and art exhibits, including a collection of glass works by noted artist Dale Chihuly. Kids and adults alike are fascinated by the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus, which features an apiary, rose pavilion, and berry house. The John F. Wolfe Palm House, located on the grounds, dates back to 1895. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for kids ages 3-12. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily.

Columbus Museum of Art

480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215

Founded in 1878 under the name Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts, the Columbus Museum of Art has a long tradition of making great art accessible to the local community. Their extensive collection of American and European works focuses on contemporary art, folk art, glass, and photography. Families love "Think Outside the Brick," CMA's annual spring exhibit of LEGO® creations, including a giant model of Columbus. Entrance fee is $18 for adults and $9 for students and kids ages 4-17. Tickets must be purchased in advance. CMA is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Thursday.

German Village

588 S. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215

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A simple trip across a highway bridge transports you to old-world Europe in a matter of minutes. German Village is no commercially-created tourist attraction. This historic district was settled in the mid-1800s by German immigrants, who at one time made up one-third of the city's population. The lack of high-rise buildings and driveways are features from the days of quaint, close-knit neighborhoods where people walked everywhere and homes were often occupied by multiple families. Many of the streets still bear the original brick pavers. The sights and sounds of German Village are well worth multiple visits.

Ohio Statehouse

1 Capitol Sq., Columbus, OH 43215

A trip to the Ohio Statehouse serves a two-fold purpose. In addition to serving as the central location for the business of governing Ohio, the building is a stunning example of the Greek Revival style of architecture that was so predominant during the 18th century. Between stretches of bitter winter weather and struggles for funding, construction took 22 years. The Statehouse finally opened for legislative activity in 1857 and the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Visitors may take self-guided tours weekdays from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Central Ohio Fire Museum & Learning Center

260 N. Fourth St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Housed in an authentically restored 1908 engine house, the Central Ohio Fire Museum & Learning Center uses interactive programs to offer entertaining and educational lessons on fire safety. Displays of firefighting apparatus throughout the years trace the development of equipment as it has become safer and more effective. Boots the Fire Mouse is on hand to greet kids as they enjoy the play area. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children. The Museum is open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Hanford Village George Washington Carver Addition Historic District

800 Alum Creek Dr., Columbus, OH 43205

Hanford Village was incorporated in 1909, but its true prominence came in 1946 with the development of the George Washington Carver Addition. This suburb of Cape Cod houses was marketed to African-American veterans of World War II. As a result, these men and women and their families had the opportunity to settle in a thriving, supportive middle-class neighborhood. Some members of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen made their home in Hanford Village while stationed at nearby Lockbourne Army Air Force Base. 

Short North Arts District

886 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

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Short North Arts District, nestled between downtown Columbus and the OSU campus, is a hip neighborhood of colorful murals, trendy boutiques and hot restaurants. The district is also home to a slice of Columbus history in Victorian Village, the neighborhood's residential area. One of the more notable examples of Victorian architecture is Sells House, built by one of the owners of the Sells Circus, leading to the nickname "Circus House." Nearby is Cocoa Manor, another whimsically-named house that was home to the owners of Anthony Thomas Candy.

Shrum Mound

3141 McKinley Ave., Columbus, OH 43204

In pre-Columbian times, the Adena culture was a group of Native American societies living in Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky and Indiana that shared a number of ceremonial rituals. Shrum Mound in Campbell Park is one of the last cone-shaped Adena burial mounds remaining in Columbus. The mound itself is 20 feet high and 100 feet around, named for the family that donated the land, while the park is named for James E. Campbell, governor of Ohio from 1890 to 1892.

East Broad Street Historic District

1234 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205

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See how "the other half" used to live with a trip to view the homes in the East Broad Street Historic District. Most prominent among these elegant houses is the Old Governor's Mansion, also known as the Lindenberg Mansion after the man who originally built the residence. Another landmark is the High Victorian-style Kappa Gamma National Headquarters, constructed in 1852.

Kelton House Museum & Garden

586 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215

While Kelton House Museum & Garden is a striking example of art and architecture from the 19th century, the site has a much greater historical importance. The home of Fernando Cortez and Sophia Stone Kelton served as a stop on the iconic Underground Railroad. Fugitive slaves found a haven in these waystations on their journey toward freedom. Grace Kelton, granddaughter of Fernando and Sophia, bequeathed the home to the city of Columbus for educational use. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for college students and $3 for K-12 students. The museum is closed in January, but make plans to visit when they reopen on Thursday, February 4.

Sign of the Times

What modern Columbus site do you think will become part of the city's history for future generations?

Did you know the Center of the World is in Ohio? Yes, there actually is an unincorporated community by that name near Youngstown, not far from the Pennsylvania state line.

But there are a number of truly compelling reasons why one of the state's slogans is, "Center of the Universe." If you're looking for a new home in 2021, here are a dozen fascinating features that make a great case for finding it in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati.

1. Cleveland Rocks!
    
   

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   America's musical legacy includes genres from country to gospel, but none is more deeply entrenched in our country's spirit than rock and roll. Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed coined that iconic term, so it's only fitting that the city was chosen to be the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Designed by legendary architect I.M. Pei, the Hall was dedicated in 1995 and includes 338 inductees. 
   
   
2. Marching to a Different Drum
   
   Most big cities have a number of first-class historical, scientific, and art museums, and Cleveland is no exception. But if you prefer exploring culture that's a little offbeat, you're in luck. Cleveland features several delightfully quirky collections that pay tribute to the weirder side of life. Start your journey by checking out the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and the Dittrick Museum of Medical History.
   
   
3. Thrills, Chills, and Spills
   
   

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   Lake Erie's shoreline is also the site of another type of rockin' and rollin'. Cedar Point in Sandusky proudly bears the title of "Roller Coaster Capital of the World." With its world-record 71 rides, 17 of which are roller coasters, the park has been an annual summer tradition for countless families. As the second-oldest amusement park in the United States, Cedar Point's humble beginnings date back to 1870, when it consisted of a public beach, beer garden, and dance floor.
   
   
4. Dotting the "I"
   
   More than 60,000 students can't be wrong: Ohio State University is one of the largest and most prestigious institutes of higher learning in the country. OSU's top academic programs are matched by collegiate sports teams that frequently sit atop the national rankings. The marching band's halftime performance of Script Ohio, with a sousaphone player dotting the "i," has become one of the most enduring and beloved traditions of Saturday afternoon football games at the "Horseshoe."
   
   
5. I Triple-Dog Dare Ya!
   
   

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   Warm, witty, and relatable, A Christmas Story has become a holiday classic for all ages. Reenact your favorite scenes at the actual house that served as the Parker family home, located in Cleveland's historic and elegant Tremont neighborhood. Right across the street is the companion museum, where you can view memorabilia such as Randy's snowsuit and purchase your very own "fra-gee-lay" leg lamp.  
   
   
6. Prost!
   
   With the rise of microbreweries, domestic beers began to rival imports in terms of variety and quality. Hipster towns such as Denver, Seattle, and Portland are often considered leaders in this movement, but did you know that Columbus ranks in the top five U.S. cities for craft beer production?  Untappd, an app focusing on all things beer-related, gives high marks to local favorites Hoof Hearted, Pretentious Barrel House, and Columbus Brewing Company.
   
   
7. All Roads Lead to Columbus
   
   

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   Do you enjoy having family and friends come to visit? It's a little-known and astonishing fact that 48 percent of the U.S. population lives within a 500-mile radius of Columbus. Major urban centers such as Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. are no more than a day's drive away. Toronto and Ottawa are also within that radius, adding some international flair.
   
   
8. Fast Food Nation
   
   As the birthplace of Wendy's and Buffalo Wild Wings and the headquarters of White Castle, Columbus has plenty of fast food cred. That's just one of the reasons why the city has become well-known as Test Market, USA. Thrillist, Business Insider, and other sources have long noted that Columbus is the go-to for Starbucks, Burger King, and other national brands testing new products. The city's diverse demographics are valued as an ideal cross-section of the national population.
   
   
9. Living on the Square in Cincinnati
   
   

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   Fans of classic sitcoms immediately recognize Fountain Square from its cameo in the opening credits of WKRP in Cincinnati. As downtown's shopping, entertainment, and cultural hub, Fountain Square is truly the heart and soul of this vibrant city.
   
   
10. Crossing the Line
    
    Cincinnati's fabulousness can't be contained by just one state. The metropolitan area spills across the Ohio River into Kentucky, incorporating such charming cities as Florence, Union, and Walton. Cross the historic, Brooklyn Bridge-esque John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge to travel from Cincinnati to Covington, which is the actual home of the Cincinnati International Airport.
     
11. It's All About the Chili
    
    

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    Chili is a dish that lends itself to a wide range of ingredients and preparations. But Cincinnati still managed to put itself on the culinary map with a unique version that keeps people coming back for more. More of a sauce than a stew or soup, Cincinnati chili is almost always served on top of hot dogs or spaghetti noodles. Unexpected seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate give the chili a Mediterranean flavor. Order it 3-way topped with cheddar cheese, add onions or beans to make it 4-way, or go for the works with 5-way. 
    
    
12. The Color Purple
    
    Get a good workout or embrace eco-friendly forms of transportation with a brisk walk across the Newport Southbank Bridge. The span, familiarly known as the Purple People Bridge due to its distinctive color, is a half-mile-long pedestrian bridge connecting Cincinnati and Newport, KY. 

The Three Cs

Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati: which one is the perfect fit for you?