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This Southwest Ohio working farm is loaded with things to do but one of the most popular is paintball! It features Lighted Field, Ultimate Air, Woods, Speedball, X Ball, Hyper Ball, Rentals, Paint, CO2, Compressed Air, and Supplies.
Open play is Saturday 11am – 5pm and Sunday 1-5pm. Other times by request. Private parties welcome. Weekend and season passes plus gift certificates are available. It’s a great idea for company events, birthdays, bachelor & bachelorette parties. Large groups (15 or more) requiring rentals should call in advance so that enough equipment can be prepared for the entire party.
Printout: Ohio Paintball Country
Open: Daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Location: Sandusky, Ohio at 2001 Cleveland Road (entrance to the Cedar Point Causeway)
Phone: 419-627-2106
The Caribbean meets Sandusky in this resort destination for vacationers. With its tropical theme, guests at Cedar Point’s Castaway Bay feel like they have just landed on an island paradise upon entering this lush indoor waterpark resort. Castaway Bay features 237 hotel rooms and suites including family-oriented units, a 38,000-square-foot indoor waterpark loaded with water activities for all ages, a day spa, fitness center, state-of-the-art arcade, restaurants, retail shops, adjacent marina and space for meetings, group events and birthday parties.
Cedar Point’s Castaway Bay indoor waterpark features a 35-foot-tall, 520-foot-long water coaster that uses water jets to propel riders uphill! Swooping turns and a wild ending are what’s in store for guests daring enough to challenge Castaway Bay’s 10 slides, including three 35-foot-tall body slides. Guests are sure to get wet at the Lookout Lagoon Family Funhouse that is highlighted by a gigantic water-filled bucket that dumps more than 1,000 gallons of water every two minutes! Younger guests splash the day away at Toddler's Tide Pool, which features a tandem slide, water pipes and sea creatures. A wide variety of other wet and wild fun also awaits guests at Castaway Bay.
Printout: Castaway Bay
Open: May until Labor Day daily. The park will reopen for Bonus Weekends and HalloWeekends on Friday nights, Saturdays and Sundays in September and October.
Location: Sandusky, Ohio, between Cleveland and Toledo
Phone: 419-627-2350
Cedar Point is a 364-acre amusement park/resort that is home to the most exhilarating collection of thrill rides and roller coasters on Earth. Featuring some of the tallest and fastest scream machines around, this thrill-seeker's paradise also boasts a huge outdoor waterpark (Soak City); four resort hotels; luxury RV campground with cottages and cabins; two large marinas; outdoor entertainment complex featuring go-karts, mini golf and more (Challenge Park); award-winning live shows; gift shops; delicious eateries; four giant kids’ areas and more.
Featuring Skyhawk. This ultimate new thrill ride will feature
two giant swinging arms, each 84 feet in length, with 20 seats on each arm.
Each set of 20 seats will consist of two rows of 10 seats, positioned back to
back, that will provide each rider with a “front row” view. Riders are launched
forward and backward, swinging higher and faster each time. At the peak of the
arc, riders on Skyhawk will be more than 125 feet in the air and will reach
speeds of 60 mph in both directions!
Location: 4600 Milan Road (U.S. 250) in Sandusky OH 44870
Phone: 419-609-6000 or 1-888-779-2327
Great Wolf Lodge (originally called “Great Bear Lodge”) is the smallest waterpark of the current three at 33,000 square feet. However, with a total of 9 slides and 5 pools, a 25-foot rock climbing wall, a toddler tree house area, and an arts-and-crafts playhouse in the lodge itself, it still has a lot to offer. I especially like the adult-only hot tub tucked away in a corner!
Our family has stayed at Great Wolf Lodge several times and one of my favorite things about it has been the lobby. Really! This space is very homey, despite its Paul Bunyanesque size, and lodge guests are encouraged to use it as an auxiliary living room. It’s a very pleasant spot to hang out too, with a large fireplace, several comfy seating areas grouped around coffee tables large enough for a rousing board game (available at the reservation desk), a coffee cart, and a two-story animated clock tower that puts on regular shows.
During one stay, I spotted an elderly man in the lobby in flannel PJs, robe, and slippers, reading the morning newspaper and sipping a cup of coffee as he sat by the fire. I’ve also seen solitary adults reading and enjoying the quiet, a foursome playing cards, a crowd of pajama-clad tots listening to the nightly bedtime story, several families watching the clock tower show, and (in the lodge’s annual December Snowland celebration) guests singing Christmas carols under real-looking snow falling from the lobby ceiling while they waited for Santa to arrive.
For me, the lobby’s crowning touch is the mounted moose head on the wall that sings at timed intervals, never failing to draw a crowd of amazed kids and amused adults. You haven’t lived until you’ve heard a stuffed animal head singing “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love, Baby” in a voice that sounds just like Barry White!
The other thing I really enjoy about Great Wolf Lodge is the food. Whether you have a drink and appetizers in the Gitchigoomie Grill while seated under the authentic aeroplane that hangs from the ceiling or you enjoy a family-style meal in Lumber Jack’s Cook Shanty, you won’t be disappointed – the food in both places is excellent. In fact, the burgers in the grill are the best I’ve ever eaten!
A nice touch in the grill is the kid’s menu, which offers goodies like hamburgers and hot dogs, mac & cheese, and PB&J, along with drinks for childish palates, made of ingredients like lemonade, ice cream, piña colada mix, and juices. They even offer an appetizer plate with taste treats like peanut butter pinwheels with jelly dip and strawberries with fruit dip. How cool is that? - Review written by Betty Winslow.
Printout: Great Wolf
Lodge
Location: 7000 Kalahari Drive in Sandusky OH 44870
Phone: 419-433-7200 or 1-877-525-2427
In May of 2005, the Kalahari Waterpark Resort opened the largest indoor waterpark in Ohio at that time, with an 80,000 square foot waterpark, 308 guest rooms, 2 restaurants, a day spa, a miniature golf course, a pottery decorating area, a video arcade, and an amazing meeting and conference center. With the opening of a huge expansion project on December 21, 2007, the Kalahari will become the largest indoor waterpark in the US, with a mind-boggling 160,000 square feet of water fun.
For large families or extended family groups, this is probably the park to pick. Their Village Suite, the largest room available among all three waterparks, holds 12 adults and includes a full-sized and fully equipped kitchen. In addition, there’s plenty to do besides just play in the water.
Does your family like arts and crafts? You can decorate pottery, do make-it-take-it crafts, have body art done, or get a caricature made. If unique shopping is more your bag, you can pick up a cool swimsuit or an authentic piece of African art or have someone’s name engraved on a piece of rice and set into jewelry.
Family members who are into health and fitness can play miniature golf, use the workout area, or get a massage at the spa. Plus, I can’t forget to mention the Surfari FlowRider. Surfing in Ohio. And indoors, yet. How cool is that?
There’s even a two-story dry playhouse area for tots who aren’t so fond of the water, and (in the summer) a big outdoor pool area lined with rentable bungalows that include mini fridges, flat-screen TVs, and lounge chairs. Really, there’s something for everyone!
I love Ohio waterpark vacations, especially in the winter. You never have to worry about the weather’s effect on your plans. You aren’t taking a long expensive airplane trip to get somewhere (which means no hassles with airport security – yay!) You can spend an entire day in your swimsuit, even in January. Best of all, you can eat, sleep, shop, and play without ever having to go outside.
Find out for yourself what specials and options each property offers and then choose the one that’s just right for your family. Check them out. You'll be glad you did! - Review written by Betty Winslow
Printout: Kalahari Waterpark Resort
PREHISTORIC FOREST AND MYSTERY
HILL
(Admission is $7.95 for adults and $5.95 for both seniors and children.)
Open: Daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (During May and September only open on weekends.)
Location: 8232 East Harbor Road in Marblehead, OH 43440
Phone: 419-798-5230
The Prehistoric Forest offers an imitation volcano with a 35 foot waterfall. The volcano will shake and smoke. The tour of the 10 acre natural forest offers a variety of surprises on the way such as replica dinosaur nests complete with eggs and dinosaur bones as well. The park offers life size replicas of many dinosaurs such as the Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops and also a variety of living animals because the park is natural. Finally visitors will be offered the opportunity to participate in their own dig; uncovering bones, fossils, and footprints. Mystery Hill is also part of the same park and has some very unique features of its own. Visitors can witness water running up hill, a pendulum that will only swing to the south, and a ball that rolls up hill and will not roll back down. At the vortex of the hill visitors sense of balance may be pushed to the limit as most people will seemingly change height right before ones eyes. The park also offers a girt shop, picnic tables in the woods, and water balloon cages to provide an escape from the heat.
Printout: Prehistoric Forest and Mystery Hill
Welcome to the only public ice chutes in the state!
Experience the winter thrill ride of Ohio – tobogganing down two steep refrigerated ice chutes that operate whether or not snow is on the ground. Located at Mill Stream Run Reservation in Strongsville, Ohio, people of all ages have found heart-racing excitement here for decades.
Riders climb aboard a traditional wooden toboggan, but that’s where the tradition ends . . . The two toboggan chutes are approximately 1,000 icy feet long with an initial vertical drop of 70 feet. It’s a fast, fun and furious ride.
The public tobogganing hours are: Thursdays from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays from 6p.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturdays from Noon to 10:30 p.m., and Sundays from Noon to 5 p.m.
The admission fee for tobogganing is $8 for adults and $6 for children, 11 & under, and includes unlimited toboggan rides for the day. One-time ride tickets are available for $3.
All riders must wear gloves or mittens. Children must be at least 42 inches tall to ride and must be accompanied by an adult. Personal toboggans are not allowed at the facility.
In addition to tobogganing, the Chalet Recreation Area facility features two fireplaces (indoor and outdoor), a main gathering area with a large-screen television, a snack bar, a loft area with video games, and indoor restrooms.
Group discount rates, for 20 or more people, are available during public hours. Groups must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Group rates are not valid for season pass holders.
The Chalet Recreation Area, including the toboggan chutes, can also be rented for private, exclusive use during non-public hours.
The Chalet Recreation Area is located on Valley Parkway in Cleveland Metro Parks Mill Stream Run Reservation, between Routes 42 and 82 in Strongsville - just a short distance from I-71 and the Ohio Turnpike. For more information and to make group or private rental reservations, call 440-572-9990.
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African Safari Wildlife Park
(Admission: Main Season Regular Admission 7 years and older $16.95
Children 3-6 years old $10.95 Off Season Regular Admision 7 years and
older $13.95 Children 3-6 years old $7.95 2 and younger are Free)
Come for a day of fun, education, and entertainment. Home of over 400 of the world’s most beautiful and exotic animals. Make sure you bring your camera, you view and may feed the animals from the comfort of your own vehicle in our Drive Through Section. Our 100-acre preserve is something you don’t want to miss. The pay-one-price admission includes our drive-thru safari and safari junction walk-thru. The Walk Through has many exhibited animals. We also offer from Memorial Day to Labor Day, Pony Rides, Camel Rides, Animal Shows and Pig Races. Kids won’t want to leave there is so much to do! We are located 17 miles west of Cedar Point.
Printout: African Safari Wildlife Park
Admission:
$6.00 Adults ages 13-64, $5.00 Seniors ages 65+, $4.50 Children ages 4-12 and
Children 3 & under are free with an adult
Hours: May 1 through September 30 from Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sunday: Noon - 5 p.m.
Location: 11455 Obee Road, Whitehouse, Ohio 43571
Phone: 419-877-2733
Web Site: http://butterfly-house.com
Come and visit the enchanting world of butterflies at The Butterfly House. The air conditioned Visitor Center is filled with educational information about our numerous butterflies and offers a gift shop. The outdoor butterfly gardens and other habitat have been created to promote increased population of the local species. Many people pack a picnic lunch and are welcome to use the outside picnic tables. The Butterfly House is handicap accessible and is equipped to serve groups of all different sizes. Prior scheduling is requested to insure maximum comfort. The average length of stay in The Butterfly House is approximately 45 minutes. Get eye-to-eye with a Butterfly. Hundreds of live butterflies from North America, Central America and Asia in free flight in a beautiful, indoor garden setting. We look forward to seeing you!
Printout: The Butterfly House
Admission is FREE for Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township residents on Mondays ONLY. (If a legal holiday falls on a Monday, an admission is charged but the FREE day will apply on the next day – Tuesday instead)
Ready for safari? This is no ordinary zoo. It lays claim to the largest collection of primates in North America. In addition, there are thousands of additional animals to see, hear and yes, smell throughout nearly 170 acres of discovery. The zoo also features an Australian Adventure and enormous two-acre indoor tropical rainforest. The Australian Adventure is designed for children and has many unique sites, sounds and activities available for its little explorers. And the rainforest captures the mood just right with its towering waterfall entrance to a room that rains every 15 minutes. It comes complete with wildlife, including animals and plants.
Printout:
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
and Rainforest
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Admission: Adults
$12.95, Seniors (62 and over) $10.95, Children (2-12) $7.95
Parking:
$6.50
Open: Open daily 9
a.m. (Except during Festival of Lights). Call 1-800-94 –HIPPO or 513-475-6124 or
visit our website at
www.cincinnatizoo.org for information on
current hours and details on special events for the entire family.
Location: 3400 Vine
Street, Cincinnati, OH 45220-1399. Located 10 minutes from downtown, with easy
access from three major interstates: From I-71 South – Take Dana Avenue Exit
(#5).
From I-75
North or South – Take Mitchell Avenue Exit (#6). From I-74 – Take I-75 North to
Mitchell Avenue Exit (#6).
Phone: 1-800-94-HIPPO or 513-475-6124
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden was rated the #1 attraction locally and one of the top 10 zoos in the nation by Zagat Survey. It has also been recognized by Child Magazine as one of “The 10 Best Zoos for Kids. ”Over 1.2 million people visit the Zoo’s award-winning exhibits, 500 animal and 3,000 plant species annually. Whether you are seeing polar bears at Lords of the Arctic, bonobo and orangutans in Jungle Trails, elephants, giraffe and okapi at Vanishing Giants, manatees at Manatee Springs or gorillas at Gorilla World, you will have an enjoyable day visiting animals from every continent and over 20 lush gardens.
Kids will love the train and shuttle rides as well as the Zoo’s Carousel and Children’s Zoo. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is the number one family attraction in town. Don’t miss it!
Printout:
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
Admission:
$9.00 Adult (ages 12 - 59) $5.00 Children (ages 2 - 11) FREE Children (under 2)
$7.00 Senior (ages 60 & up; $3.50 on all Tuesdays) 50% off on Wed. for Franklin
County residents with photo ID
Parking: $3.00
Open: 365 days a year. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Labor Day - Memorial Day weekend. 9
a.m. - 6 p.m. Memorial Day weekend - Labor Day. 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesdays
mid-June to mid-August
Location: 9990 Riverside Drive, Powell, Ohio 43065
Phone: (614) 645-3550
The Columbus Zoo attempts to exhibit animals in natural habitats whenever possible, so visitors appreciate each animal’s role in the overall ecosystem. Some of their especially interesting exhibits are Voyage to Australia and the Islands of Southwest Asia (including an outdoor kangaroo yard and lorikeet aviary); Johnson Aquatic Complex (home to a number of species that are endangered or extinct in the wild); African Forest (showcasing the Central African rainforest); Primate Collection (with including bonobos and a three-generation gorilla family); Reptiles (one of world’s largest collections); the Migratory Songbird Aviary (a 84,000-cubic-foot free-flight home for 40 bird species); and the Ohio Wetlands ecosystem exhibit.
Kids will especially enjoy the Stings, Wings and Play Things playground’s state-of-the-art equipment that caters to a variety of ages and physical abilities; the Grand Carousel (manufactured in 1914 and designated a historical site in 2002); and the train and pony rides (available seasonally). Gardeners won’t want to miss the botanical gardens that are found through the park.
Printout:
Columbus Zoo & Aquarium
Elk Ridge Game Farm
Bucyrus, Ohio
419-562-0195 (evenings)
419-562-9997 (clubhouse)
They will strive to provide a quality hunt as close to the wild as possible. You are encouraged to bring your own dog or use their experienced guides and dogs to provide quality hunting every time. Their excellent bird holding cover of 400 acres consist of a mixture of warm season prairie grass, sorghum and farmland. Their season runs from September 1st to April 1st and their open 7 days a week. The hunts consist of morning (8:30 - 12:00) and afternoon (1:00 - 4:30) and are by reservation only. Hunts are booked on a first come first serve basis.
Printout: Elk Ridge Game Farm for Hunters in Ohio
Admission:
$9.00 Adults (ages 12- 59) $6.00 Children (ages 2 - 11) and Seniors (60+) FREE
for Members and Children under 2 years; free for all Lucas County residents on
Mondays between 10 a.m. and noon (must have valid ID; does not apply on
holidays)
Parking: $5.00 per vehicle
Open: every day
except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. May 1 -
Labor Day. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Labor Day - April 30
Location: 2700
Broadway, Toledo, Ohio 43609 (mailing address: P.O. Box 140130, Toledo, Ohio,
43614)
Phone: (419) 385-5721
This is not your ordinary zoo, folks. For starters, Toledo Zoo houses an
internationally-famous Hippoquarium®, where observers watch from inches away as
hippos swim and play in their 360,000-gallon glass-sided pool. Other exhibits
that make this zoo special are Arctic Encounter, Frog Town, Cheetah Valley, and
Primate Forest. The newest exhibit, Africa!, which opened in May of 2004,
features free-roaming African animals such as giraffes, zebras, wildebeests,
impalas, wild dogs, and ostriches, and can be enjoyed from an observation deck
or the guided Safari train that circles the exhibit itself.
Youngsters will especially enjoy riding the African animal carousel (made in Mansfield, Ohio), playing on the playground, visiting the Museum of Science, and petting the animals in the Children’s Zoo. And then there’s the food; 13 (yes, 13) eateries that include an outdoor gourmet restaurant, a barbeque pavilion, and a cafeteria built inside the former lion house. Who needs McDonald’s?
Printout: Toledo Zoo
The Wilds
(Admission is $14 for adults, $13 for seniors, $9 for children, and children
under 4 are free)
Open: May, September, and October: Saturday and Sunday. June, July, and August: Wednesday through Sunday. Hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: 14000 International Road in Cumberland, OH 43732
Phone: 740-638-5030
The Wilds is a 10,000 acre reserve that was acquired after the land had been surfaced mined. The land is home to many species of animal from Africa, Asia, and North America. The Wilds offers a couple different tours one being a guided safari through the park in order to observe the animals in the wild, and the other being a Wilds at Work tour giving both a closer look at the animals and a better understanding of what the employees at the Wilds do. The park currently has 50 species of animal living on it including: the red-crowned crane, Hartman’s mountain zebra, the greater one-horned rhinoceros, the Bactrian camel, the reticulated giraffe, the American bison, the mink, the morning dove, and the sable antelope.
Printout: The Wilds
MAN-MADE AND WITHSTANDING THE TEST OF TIME
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In the name of progress, we must build and leave our mark behind. And if built well enough, it’ll stay a very long time.
Buckeye Furnace
Admission is Free
Built in 1852, this reconstructed charcoal-fired iron blast furnace is a site to see. It includes an original stack. The site includes a reconstructed casting shed, an engine house and former company store. Furnaces such as that found here were used for producing iron. The 270-acre park-site includes hiking trails.
Printout:
Buckeye Furnace
There is just something about a covered bridge that attracts us. It may be the untold- history hinted at by its weathered look or the distinct architectural craftsmanship that sets one apart from the other. My goodness, there’s even been a feature film about covered bridges. Okay, maybe Bridges of Madison County wasn’t exactly about the covered bridges. In any case, Ohio has many covered bridges – most old and historic and some new. There are various resources to learn the history of these bridges and where to find them. It makes for a great driving-tour. For more information, visit the following Web sites:
The Ohio Statehouse
Admission is Free
The statehouse is more than a modern day functional meeting place for government officials, it is wrought with historical significance and is one of the oldest working statehouses left in the country. In addition to tours offered to see where and how the state’s government officials operate, visitors can enjoy touch-screen kiosks for interactive presentations and view additional educational displays offering much to share about the state’s civic milestones and Ohio history.
Printout:
The Ohio Statehouse
Lockington Locks
Admission is Free
As part of the Miami and Erie Canal system connecting the Ohio River in Cincinnati to Lake Erie in Toledo, these five stair-step locks were vital to transportation and water supply in the mid nineteenth century. Today, the locks lead to Loramie Creek. The sites remains include the abutments and aqueducts of the locks as well as the dry-lock basin and lockmaster’s home.
Printout:
Lockington Locks
Leo Petroglyth
Admission is Free
Some 37 inscriptions in sandstone mark the ancient culture of the Fort Ancient Indians dating between the years 1000 and 1650. The drawings, who’s meanings have not yet been translated, are of Indians and animals representing the time and region. Today, visitors can view these creations as well as a scenic ravine, gorge and cliffs.
Printout:
Leo Petroglyths
Inscription Rock
Admission is Free
Archeologists believe that these prehistoric Indian rock inscriptions date between 1200 and 1600. Much of the 32 X 21 foot rock has been eroded through time by the lake but a roof has since been built to preserve what’s left and a viewing platform for created for visitors to appreciate the remains. The drawings are of people and animals carved into limestone. It was discovered in 1833.
Printout:
Inscription Rock
This is the historic battle site where General Anthony Wayne had a decisive victory resulting in the Indians of the Northwest Territory signing the Treaty of Greenville. The treaty gave the southern and eastern regions of Ohio to the settlers. The name Fallen Timbers was derived due to a massive windstorm knocking down trees just before the battle. The park also has a monument honoring Wayne, the soldiers and Indians who died there.
Printout:
Fallen Timbers
The Marblehead Lighthouse State Park
110
Lighthouse Drive in Marblehead, OH 43440
Phone: 419-798-9777
The Marblehead Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes, has guided sailors safely along the rocky shores of Marblehead Peninsula since 1822. Today, the Marblehead Lighthouse State Park invites visitors to explore the fascination history of maritime commerce, daring rescues at sea, and the unique lifestyle of the lighthouse keeper as technology changed the profession over time.
Tours are offered on summer weekdays after Memorial Day until the Friday before Labor Day. Tours led by the U.S. Coast Guard auxiliary may also be offered on the second Saturday of the month during June and July. Tours are also offered during the annual Autumn Lighthouse Festival on October 8th, 2005. The Marblehead Lighthouse Historical Society assists in staffing the on-site keepers house, which is also opened for tours.
Printout:
Marblehead Lighthouse
Come see the stars. And I don’t mean Hollywood’s. Hey, you may even make a discovery of a new planet, see a meteor or just star-gaze at the constellations. In any case, Mt. Lookout Observatory was the first professional observatory in the country. And it holds a capacity of 40 people.
Printout:
Mount Lookout Observatory
Perry's Cave Family Fun Center
(Admission:
$7.00 for adults, $3.50 for children 6-12, 6 and under are free)
The Duggan family of Put-in-Bay continues to add to its array of family attractions at Perry's Cave Family Fun Center. The new Butterfly House at Put-in-Bay joins Perry’s Cave & Gemstone Mining, The War of 18-Holes Mini-golf course, 25-ft Rock Climbing Wall and The Antique Car Museum as additions to the Family Fun Center in the past three years.
Visitors can walk among hundreds of colorful, exotic butterflies from North and Central America, as well as Asia, while enjoying the enchanting, instrumental background music. The butterflies dance, court and feed all around guests as they wind their way through the 4000-square foot greenhouse, among beautiful flowers, plants and bushes, selected specifically for their ability to attract and nourish butterflies. The adjacent, brand-new gift shop covers 5000 square feet with something for everyone.
The Butterfly House at Put-in-Bay, as well as Perry’s Cave, can accommodate school groups, scouts, corporate outings or other gatherings for a fun, unique and educational experience. There are shaded picnic areas and gas grills for guest use. A new concession diner is planned for Summer 2005.
Printout:
Perry's Cave Family Fun CenterWalk through 120 wooded acres featuring the Stations of the Cross and enjoy many shrines and grottos, and all the beauty of nature in a peaceful atmosphere. This historic shrine established in 1850 is the oldest place of pilgrimage dedicated to Mary in the Midwest. The shrine grounds have more than 40 points of interest including the famous open air Pieta chapel built in 1968. Visit the grounds, pilgrimage center, cafeteria and gift shop (all handicap accessible). Personal and group pilgrimages are scheduled year round and special events run from April through October. The shrine's scheduled masses are Saturdays at 11am and 4pm, Sundays 9:00am and 11:00am, and weekdays at 11 am. Confessions are held a half hour prior to masses.
Printout: Sorrowful Mother Shrine
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Well, maybe not “mounds of fun” but certainly mounds of history. The following are ancient burial grounds of various prehistoric Indians throughout Ohio.
Visitors may make the 116 foot climb to the top of this historic mound to capture a panoramic view of the 37-acre park. This burial mound is the largest discovered in Ohio and measures 877 feet around. It was built by the Adena Indians between 800 B.C. and 100 A.D.
Printout:
Miamisburg Mound
Built by the Hopwell Indians between 100 B.C. and 500 A.D., this historic complex of burial mounds and earthworks were once one of the most impressive discovered in the U.S. Today, there are still walls adjoining the mounds in the 20-acre circular embankment. Additional smaller mounds are also found opposite the openings within the Octagonal works.
Printout:
Octagonal Earthworks
This is the central burial earthwork in what was once a much larger complex built by the Hopewell Indians between 100 B.C. and 500 A.D. Today, this geometrical archeological discovery measures 240 feet by 130 feet and stands about 30 feet high. Archeologists’ discoveries of artifacts buried with the Indians at this site indicate that the Hopwell’s were very advanced for their time in developing crafts. The location of addition structures, no longer existent, are outlined with markers to provide visitors with a perspective of what the entire site once looked like.
Printout:
Seip Mound
Filled with
mystery and surrounded by nature’s splendor, the largest and most famous Indian
effigy mound in North America awaits. Serpent Mound is one of the oldest
unsolved mysteries challenging scientists to unravel the mystique of the winding
earthen snake some 1,300 feet long, 25 feet wide, 5 feet high and more than
1,000 years old.
Who built this fascinating earthwork, when and why? These questions have plagued scientists for more than a century.
Today, visitors from around the globe descend on Peebles, Ohio to take in the impressive view of the massive winding earthwork from high atop a tower or along a walkway hugging the serpent’s twisted body. The Serpent Mound Museum hosts captivating illustrations and stories of the mound, the theories behind its history. The park itself includes other ancient mounds and a breathtaking view of a geological anomaly, five miles in diameter, believed to have been caused by a meteorite or volcanic explosion, despite the lack of any volcanic or meteorite evidence. Much like the Great Serpent slithering toward the edge of this grand bluff, it remains a mystery.
Printout:
Serpent Mound
Built by the Adena Indians approximately 2,000 years ago, it is currently a grass-covered hill 100 foot in diameter and nearly 20 feet high. There are steps leading to the top.
Printout:
Shrum Mound
Story Mound is a prehistoric burial mound dating between 800 B.C. and 100 A.D. It was built by the Adena Indians as a ceremonial place. It is currently nearly 100 feet in diameter and twenty feet high covering almost an acre. It is of note to archeologists because it represents the first documented example of such a structure connected to the Adena’s. It was excavated in 1897.
Printout:
Story Mound
These geometrical enclosures were built by the Hopewell Indians between 100 B.C. and 500 A.D. They had religious and social significance to the Indians of the time. The remains measure approximately 50 feet in length. And although city expansion and development has eliminated portions of the Wright Earthworks’ original mounds and walls, vital parts of the complex have been preserved.
Printout: The Wright Earthworks
BACK TO NATURE & AMISH COUNTRY & MORE
Ohio is certainly blessed with many nature centers. This is a perfect afternoon diversion for nature-lovers, children or those that simply need a quite escape. Although some nature centers charge admission, most do not. It is recommended that you contact your local parks division or visitors bureau to find what’s available nearby or simply check the entertainment section of your local newspaper. Although many nature centers appear to be similar, they each have their own distinctive touch. Also, many unique activities occur weekly at these little community jewels – and some are free.
Here are some of the highlights you may find at your nature center:
Printout:
Ohio Nature Centers
Aullwood
Audubon Center and Farm
Relax with nature at Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm, a 350-acre nature sanctuary and working organic farm with six miles of walking trails winding through prairie, woods, ponds, farmland and meadows including the Birds, Flight and the Wrights Trail, an all people accessible 4/10 mile loop. The Marie S. Aull Education Center is filled with dozens of hands-on exhibits that interpret southwest Ohio's flora and fauna in two discovery rooms; countless opportunities to explore rich natural history resources in six thematic classrooms; and places for quiet reflection in observation rooms. A 200-seat auditorium provides space for meetings, conferences, wedding receptions, parties and other community events.
Aullwood's organic farm invites visitors to explore the century old bank barn, which is home to pigs, goats, horses and other livestock. The Farm Education Building features interactive exhibits, which interpret sustainable agriculture. Visitors may explore pastures, colorful herb and vegetable gardens, springhouse and croplands.
Eighteen environmental education programs are offered which meet the newly approved Ohio academic standards for science and social studies. Guided and self-guided tours are also available. Aullwood's Center for Lifelong Learning offers activities and classes for infants through seniors. Program fees vary. Call Aullwood for additional information 937-890-7360.
Open all year from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. Closed some major holidays. Admission is $4.00/adults and $2.00/child
(age 2 and under free). Friends of Aullwood and National Audubon Society members are FREE.
The Marie S. Aull Education Center is located at 1000 Aullwood Road and Aullwood Farm at 9101 Frederick Pike, Dayton, OH 45414. Both facilities are three miles west of the Dayton International Airport and a short 20-minute drive from downtown Dayton on Interstate 75 North. There is ample free parking. For more information call Aullwood at 937-890-7360 or visit our website at http://aullwood.center.audubon.org
Printout: Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm
Black Swamp Bird
Observatory Nature Center
Hours: All Year – Tuesdays 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM; Saturdays 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM; Sundays 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Open extended hours in the Spring and Fall. Please call for times.
Location: 13551 W. State Route 2, Oak Harbor, Ohio 43449, at the entrance to Magee Marsh State Wildlife Area
Phone: 419-898-4070
Located in the heart of the Lake Erie Marsh region, the Black Swamp Bird Observatory was founded in 1992 by five persons interested in bird conservation. An independent non-profit organization dedicated to wildlife research, conservation, and educational programming for the public, our mission is to develop and promote stewardship of avian and other wildlife resources through research and education.
Visitors to our Nature Center can enjoy a wildlife viewing area, shop in the gift shop, or take in an educational program before going for a walk on one of several nearby trails. Staff and volunteers are available at the office to answer questions about birds, migration, or other wildlife. Programs of the Observatory include Nature Tots (ages 3-5), Young Explorers (ages 6-11), Ohio Young Birders Club (ages 12-18), Bird Study (all ages), and the Third Saturday Lunch Lecture Series (all ages).
Printout:
Black Swamp Bird Observatory Nature Center
Brukner
Nature Center
is a privately funded,
nonprofit nature preserve dedicated to environmental education and
wildlife rehabilitation, located just five miles west of Troy, Ohio off
State Route 55. The 165 acre preserve, bounded by the Scenic Stillwater
River, is comprised of a variety of habitats including pine forest,
prairie, woodlands and wetland all traversed by over 6 miles of hiking
trails. Brukner Nature Center offers numerous educational programs for
school children, adults and families. Brukner cares for over 40 permanently
injured native Ohio wildlife that form the backbone of their educational
programming. They also operate a Wildlife Rehabilitation Unit, accepting
orphaned and injured native wildlife. Brukner's beautiful interpretive building
houses a nature shop, wild animal exhibits and hands-on displays and is
open Monday through Saturday from 9:00am – 5:00pm and Sunday from 12:30 –
5:00pm. Hiking trails are open from sunrise to sunset.
http://www.bruknernaturecenter.com/. Fee on Sunday: $1pp or $2/family.
Printout: Brukner Nature Center
Many people fantasize of one day hiking the distance of the Appalachian Trail. But, did you know that Ohio has its very own version of a marathon hiking exploration awaiting the modern day adventurer? The Buckeye Trail will take its hikers all round Ohio, literally, and expose hikers to all of Ohio’s habitats, including that of man. It cuts through urban streets and greenbelt areas, Hocking Hills known to some as “little Smokies” after the Smokey Mountains, scenic hills and waterfalls, rural waves of amber grain, a towpath along a 19th century canal, a beachhead at Lake Erie and so much more. However, be prepared if you seriously want to tackle this quest as the entire trail spans 1,300 miles of foot transportation.
The Web site listed above also provides information for shorter excursions covering portions of the Buckeye Trail with day-hikes and features hikes. It also provides a map of the entire trail and detailed maps of pieces of the trail. The Buckeye Trail is marked with blue blazes on poles and tree trunks so hikers can stay the course.
Printout:
The Buckeye Trail
The Canal Experience
At Providence Metropark
Ride an authentic, mule-drawn canal boat (tickets: $6 adults, $5 seniors 60 and over, $3 children 3 to 12). Free tours of historic Isaac Ludwig Mill. General Store.
Open Wednesday-Sunday, May-October
Location: Grand Rapids, Ohio
Phone: 419-407-9700
Travel back in time to the days when the smoothest way to go long distances was aboard boats towed by mules along manmade waterways. Board an authentic, mule-drawn canal boat named The Volunteer to experience what life was like during the canal era. Historical reenactors operate the boat, staying in character on the first half of the 45-minute cruise to spin tales of life in mid-1800s Ohio. Then tour an authentic, 1800s saw and gristmill where interpreters demonstrate how water power was used to saw wood and grind flour.
Printout: The Canal Experience
Okay, so this national natural landmark had nothing to do with nature connecting with man as the introduction implies – until man quarried away many other grooves during the 20th century. Today, these 18,000 year-old glacial grooves are “protected” and measure 400 feet long, 35-feet wide and 10-feet deep. Visitors can get up close for a good view and pictures of the grooves from an observation stairway/walkway. There are also marine-fossil remains in the limestone bedrock dating nearly 400 million-years-old.
Printout: Glacial Grooves at Kelly's Island
LAKE PARK -- Coshocton
City and County Park District
Open: Seasonal
Location: 23253 State Route 83 in Coshocton, OH 43812
Phone: 740-622-7528
Web Site: www.coshoctonlakepark.com Email: lakepark@clover.net
The Coshocton City and County Park District (Lake Park) is all about fun recreation and relaxation. Located just a half mile from Coshocton and Roscoe Village, this park offers many recreational opportunities for you and your family. From camping to hiking, golf to paddle boating, biking to swimming, and fishing to picnicking, the Lake Park area has it all in one place. Located in the center of all the activities is the Lake Park Pavilion. This restored 1920s big band dance hall hosts a variety of activities such as weddings, banquets and dances.
You'll also find paved walking and biking paths, a huge public playground, wooded hiking trails and an outdoor aquatic center complete with body and tube slides and a kiddie water play area. The horse-drawn Monticello III Canal Boat is also part of the Lake Park complex offering seasonal rides so visitors can experience what life was like on this form of 1830s era transportation. You'll find at the top of the park – Hilltop Golf Course. Entrance to the park is free. There is an admission to the aquatic center, canal boat, golf course and for camping.
Printout:
Lake Park
A plaque now marks the spot where Mingo tribe’s Chief Logan delivered a famous speech on Indian and “white-man” relations back in 1774. It was said to have taken place under the shade of a 65-foot tall Elm tree with a trunk measuring 24-feet around. Unfortunately, the tree died in 1964 due to storm damage. The park also has monuments representing other significant Native-Americans and settlers of Ohio.
Printout:
Logan Elm
Plan a visit to see Ohio’s “living and working history museum” – the world of the Amish. It is a great day trip to see and learn about the Amish way of life in splendid quality and simplicity. Let’s start with the three Ohio counties with significant Amish life bustling within.
In addition, free maps, visitors guide and video are available at www.gpubs.com/oac/index.html.
Printout: Ohio Amish Country featuring Holmes County, Tuscarawas County and Wayne County Amish Communities
Ohio & Erie Canalway
(Admission: Free)
Location: 5300 Tyner St. NW Canton OH 44708 c/o Stark County Parks
Phone: 330-477-3552
Web site:
www.OhioandErieCanalway.com
Before turnpikes, interstate highways and railroads, water was the easiest and
cheapest way to travel. When the Ohio & Erie Canal opened in 1827, it was the
first major canal west of the Appalachian Mountains. Today, the Ohio & Erie
Canalway is a National Heritage Area; a place to experience trails, trains and
scenic byways, canal towns and ethnic neighborhoods, working rivers and great
lakes, industrial landscapes and green spaces, as you explore our state's past,
present and future. The canalway provides a variety of outdoor adventures.
Visitors will encounter amazing museums, interesting historic sites, outstanding
recreational opportunities and places of natural beauty in four counties
stretching from Lake Erie's shoreline to the historic village of Zoar.
Printout: Ohio
& Erie Canalway
Stark County Park
District
(Admission: Free)
5300 Tyner St. NW
Canton, OH 44708
330-477-3552
Web site: starkparks.com
The Stark County Park District features 11 parks, four lakes, and nearly 60
miles of recreational trails, including 25 miles of the
historic Ohio & Erie National Heritage Canalway for hikers, bicycle riders,
equestrians and nature lovers of all ages. The park district runs two marinas
that feature motor boats, row boats, canoes, kayaks for rent by the hour.
Pontoon boat rides for up to 9 passengers are offered with two-week's advance
reservations. Picnic facilities available, as are nature education programs and
naturalist-guided hikes.
Printout: Stark County Parks
Disclosure: As a precaution, please call ahead to the venues you plan to visit to ensure that the hours, admittance and other data in this Web site have not changed. We assume no responsibility for omissions, inaccuracies or errors within the contents of this Web site. However, we will take into consideration, any comments that would better represent the venues within, and add them to our Web site.
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