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September Edition ©
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Ohio tourism guide to free &
affordable attractions on roads less traveled
The Crossroads
of
Pop Culture and Real American Strength
Whether it’s the gleeful home to America’s most popular high school or to the can-do American industrial spirit symbolized by Rosie the Riveter, Lima blends flair with substance.
The debut of the hit TV show, Glee, put Lima, Ohio on the map as the hometown of a fictional high school. But it’s not the first time Lima was in the national spotlight. The storied town in Northwest Ohio was a major stop on the Vaudeville circuit. One of the most renowned attractions of Lima’s past was The Faurot Opera House. It was regarded as the best theater between New York and Denver.
Lima still hosts a myriad of activities and attractions, remaining a notable stop on the entertainment circuit. Crouse Performance Hall is frequented by Broadway shows and is home of the Lima Symphony Orchestra. This venue has put famous talent on the stage, including Jerry Seinfeld and Larry the Cable Guy. Other performers hosted by Lima and the surrounding Allen County include Lynyrd Skynyrd, Martina McBride, Uncle Kracker and Brett Michaels. There is also Jazz at the Greenhouse and the Pickles Blues Extravaganza.
But one of the biggest national headlines involving Lima was when the infamous gangster, John Dillinger, broke from the Lima jail when six men raided the place in October 1933. It led to one of the FBI’s biggest manhunts in history. Lima’s Allen County Museum has a great John Dillinger collection detailing this fascinating story.
Another piece of Lima’s past rests outside the entrance of this nationally acclaimed museum. It’s a bell from the second courthouse built in 1842. It used to toll for every birth in the town. The enormous glass wall uniquely designed at the front of the building serves as a literal window to the past, for on the other side is a full-size, historic steam engine signaling the town’s rich railway heritage.
Today, Lima is bustling with entertainment and activity sure to satisfy a wide variety of interests. In fact, it’s become a prominent Ohio retail center since the 1970’s. Lima and Allen County was number one in Ohio for retail sales and purchases, according to The Lima News, in fall of 1992.
Combining Lima’s present day entertainment draws with its still strong shopping options, downtown is often abuzz with foot traffic. Visitors fill the park-like downtown setting when ArtSpace/Lima’s Rallies in the Square take place. Art shows and competitions bring smiles to the sidewalks, around the fountain and gazebo, relaxing on benches or outside the coffee shop. Grab a bite at the many restaurants offering a variety of cuisines.
Much of Lima’s growth and diversity enjoyed today was built on the back of its booming industrial heritage.
In 1885, oil was discovered in Lima. This helped spark the "Oil Boom of Northwest Ohio." A year earlier, a nearby town was discovered to have what seemed an endless supply of natural gas. So, Benjamin C. Faurot of Lima, owner of the Lima Paper Mill, decided to drill in Lima but instead of striking gas, he struck black gold. He quickly formed the Trenton Rock Oil Company. This attracted John D. Rockefeller’s attention so Standard Oil of Cleveland decided to build a refinery in Lima. From 1887 to 1905, the Lima Oil Field was a world-class producer, yielding some 300 million barrels of crude.
Lima’s industrial expansion roared through the 1920’s. Lima Locomotive Works built the Lima A-1, becoming the prototype for the modern steam locomotive. By the end of the decade, eight railroad companies operated in Lima. In addition, Superior Coach Company began in Lima, becoming the world's top producer of school buses and funeral coaches. Lima's industrial production grew again in the 1950’s during the Korean War. This is when the Lima Tank Depot was called to resume its manufacturing. Today, Ford Motor Company has a Lima plant employing 1,600 people and the state-of-the-art convention center and theatre play host to numerous business functions and conferences throughout the year.
But if the past isn’t something that fuels your tank, there’s plenty to rev your engine in the present. Lima features stock, midget and sprint car races at the local speedway and motor sports park on a regular basis. Sporting events are a big part of Lima. ESPN and a variety of other television coverage have featured motorsports racing, with NASCAR drivers participating during some events. The town even has the facilities to host championships including monster trucks, motorcycle races, equestrian and similar events such as barrel racing, classic car shows.
Other activities feature Dances in the Park, Movies in the Park, the Lima Symphony Orchestra, Mozart by Candlelight programs and Extraordinary Music in Unexpected Spaces. Old Victorian homes, a children’s garden, golf courses and museums abound. Don’t miss the haunted historical tours given every autumn.
All and all, past to present, Lima sends its visitors home feeling one word – Glee!
To map your visit to the crossroads of pop culture and real American strength, call 419-222-6075 or 888-222-6075 or log onto www.lima-allencvb.com.
By Frank R. Satullo, The OhioTraveler
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ALWAYS
REMEMBERED,
NEVER FORGOTTEN
An All-American Farm’s
Tribute to 9-11 Anniversary
Niederman Family Farm’s 22-acre corn field will have the Twin Towers cut into it with the words, “Always Remembered, Never Forgotten!
“We were all affected by 9-11, but our lives had to go on,” said Bethann Niederman. “For 10 years our country has had to live with the effects of that day. And during that time, we have tried to do our part to bring smiles back to the faces of so many.”
And so it is with that spirit of rising again that Niederman Family Farm has grown into Southwest Ohio’s premiere autumn fun farm. The 210-acre farm offers a stable of thrills ranging from its 10th annual corn maze, pumpkin patch and hay rides to the downright unbelievable featuring pig races and a giant jumping pillow beneath a barn on stilts!
The innovative barn is 70’ X 120’ and the mountainous 40’ X 60’ jumping pillow inside will make anyone feel good again. The engineering of the building allows for a natural breeze to cool its jumpers and provides shelter so that the fun never ends. It even has lighting to allow people of all ages to be kids late into the night. One of the amenities includes a 24’ X 70’ observation deck complete with PA system throughout to efficiently host parties.
Corn maze and giant jumping pillow aside, the fall activities at Niederman Family Farm continue to astound and abound. Perhaps the most unusual offering is pig racing. There are two pig pens and a long track connecting them. When the bell rings and doors open, the pigs know it’s feeding time and hustle from pen-A to pen-B in no-time flat. Although the pigs are separated from the public, anyone can cheer their favorite to the finish line.
Other favorites are the old-time horse-drawn hayrides out to the pumpkin patch to pick your own pumpkin. A widespread playground allows kids to run through giant tubes, swing aboard a huge wooden pirate ship, play inside large doll houses among other fun options. Adjacent to the play area is a picnic pavilion for adults to relax in shade, grab refreshments and watch. There’s even the popular train made from 55-gallon barrels offering rides to all. The more adventurous may want to try their survival skills on the numerous paintball courses on the other side of the farm. There’s something for everyone, including livestock galore, tours, games and plenty of food.
Come nightfall, bon fire pits are lit, flashlights flicker throughout the corn maze and the laughter continues to pour out from under the barn on stilts. Inevitably, everyone in the group, large or small, gather around the fire. There, they cozy up with family and friends for stories, have a weenie roast and s’ mores. Visitors can even take home fresh kettle-corn, cotton candy, caramel apples and plenty other fall treats.
Niederman Family Farm is conveniently located near I-75 between Cincinnati and Dayton at 5110 LeSourdesville-West Chester Road in Liberty Township, Ohio. Call 513-779-6184 or visit www.niedermanfamilyfarm.com for more information.
By Frank R. Satullo, The OhioTraveler
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IF YOU QUILT IT, THEY WILL COME
Nearly 70 Barn Quilt Squares
Piece Together A Unique Heritage Tour
A trip to Miami County, Ohio will bring visitors an opportunity to journey back in time with a new trend for the heritage travelers – the Barn Quilt Tour, a program of the Miami County Visitors & Convention Bureau.
A colorful array of traditional quilt patterns, hand painted on barns, decorate the scenic countryside. These true folk art renditions celebrate the historic, rural and agricultural experience while connecting the lovely historic downtown communities with the beautiful landscapes of Miami County. As visitors travel from town to farm, they won’t have to travel far to see over 67 barns adorned with unique patterns. Leaving the fast lane behind, this unusual driving tour takes the traveler off the beaten path and away from the major highways where they can enjoy a peaceful, leisurely drive on country roads that criss-cross all parts of Miami County.
Sprinkled throughout the county, most of the patterns are 8 X 8 foot squares and can be viewed up close by driving into the farm lanes or driveways, where some of the owners may even personally welcome their visitors. As an added bonus, many of the farms have a wide assortment of horses, cows, goats, sheep, llamas, donkeys, roosters, and more – all waiting to greet you in their own special way.
The concept of the barn quilts had its origin in 2001 in Adams County, Ohio. It was the inspiration of one woman who wanted to honor her mother’s enthusiasm for the craft of quilting and to highlight the shared cultural heritage of the Appalachian region. It quickly spread to other counties in Ohio and other states as well, creating a rich network of quilt barns, while also creating a boost for rural tourism.
The Miami County Visitors and Convention Bureau offers a map brochure for this tour which is self guided, available year round, and free to the public. There is no set trail and visitors can create their own trail, striking out in any direction to see all 67 barn quilts, or just select a few. No two are alike. Besides the beauty of the barn quilts, the tour provides a connection to the region’s rural heritage and the still very important role of the barns today, helping to preserve a piece of American heritage. It also recognizes the traditional art of quilting, which in recent years has made a huge comeback. The patterns themselves pay tribute to crafts, nature, occupations, politics, events, various states and almost anything that inspires a connection with community and family. The barns and quilt patterns seem to be a natural partnership, linked in the rural fabric of American history.
Plan your travels to allow time to visit other sites. Along the way, scenic parks and preserves such as Brukner Nature Center, Charleston Falls Preserve, Historic Eldean Bridge, Piqua Historical Area/Canal Boat Ride and the Stillwater Prairie Reserve will beckon you to stop and explore, or share a picnic lunch in a lovely natural setting where wildlife, wildflowers, covered bridges, glistening streams and waterfalls will welcome everyone. It’s a perfect way to experience the outdoors and see things you don’t normally find in the city. Visitors are encouraged to make it a 2-day, overnight tour. Visits to historic communities could include Piqua, Tipp City, Troy, Covington and others, each featuring their own quaint downtowns that are blessed with unique shopping, exhibits, local artisans, dining experiences, country stores, farmer’s markets, friendly folks everywhere, as well as historical and heritage attractions, and quality accommodations.
Day trips are also a perfect way to visit local county attractions, like the barn quilt trail, without the investment of a lot of time and money, and not too far from your own backyard. Remember the “Sunday Drive” – that grand tradition where families and friends piled in the car and took off on excursions to no place in particular? The Barn Quilt Tour is tailor made for this type of activity. We suggest you “take the road less traveled, and journey back in time” in Miami County, Ohio. And, don’t forget to bring the camera!
Group tours are welcome, and best viewing would be spring through fall. For more information on the Miami County Barn Quilt Tour and other attractions in Miami County, visit www.VisitMiamiCounty.org or call 800-348-8993.
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Visit Historical Ohio
Visit Historical Ohio, “Ohio’s Historic West” the State Designated Heritage Area located in Auglaize, Champaign, Darke, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Shelby and Van Wert counties. It’s truly a patchwork of diverse places with many historic, cultural, scenic and agricultural attractions.
The
second annual Civil War at the Fort will take place at Ambassador Park in
Fort Recovery, Ohio from September 9th – 11th, 2011.
There will be living history and reenactments that have skirmishing and
battles on all three days. Live artillery demonstrations, a period cooking
contest, night fire, military ball, payroll, parlor games, ladies tea and
a Saturday baseball game are just a few of the other events that will take
place throughout the weekend. Visitors are encouraged to walk about the
park from campsite to campsite and interact with the re-enactors between
events. For a detailed schedule of events and other information go to
www.fortpull.com.
We’re still talking fish, flight and a little Bluegrass in Champaign County, where you’ll find the county seat, Urbana, named the Best Hometown of Southwest Ohio for 2011! The 10th Annual Ohio Fish & Shrimp Festival is set for September 16th-18th at Freshwater Farms of Ohio – Ohio’s largest indoor fish hatchery. If flying is more your thing, visit the Mid-Eastern Regional Fly-In September 10th and 11th. We’ve given you the Fish and the Flight – here’s the Bluegrass, September 16th-18th Goshen Memorial Park will host the Hylo Brown Bluegrass Festival a three day festival with primitive camping. For more information on this event and many others in Champaign County visit us at www.champaignoh.com.
Maybe ghosts are more what you’re looking for? If so, you surely want to plan a trip to Sidney on October 19th and 20th. The Shelby County Historical Society invites you to spend the evening with them touring many of the historic locations in Downtown Sidney where ghostly tales and eerie stories have been known to originate. Beginning at the Ross Historical Center, you will be lead into the night in search of spirits and haunted buildings. Special surprises and several new stops are planned for this year’s tour. For more information, contact the Shelby County Historical Society at 937.498.1653 or www.shelbycountyhistory.org.
Prairie Days are planned in Darke County – enjoy pioneer crafts and demonstrations, historic reenactments at a reconstructed log house, Re-enactor’s Encampment, games for the young and young-at-heart, crafts and activities, 19th century foods, nature exhibits, prairie walks, live performances, horse-drawn wagon rides, apple butter and cider making as well as a baking contest and performance by the folk band “Elixer” on Saturday.
Beginning
on September 24th and running until October 1st, the
Greenville Art Guild Annual Art Show will take place indoors at the Nature
Center. Guild members will offer a children’s art craft on September 24th
& 25th. Expanded food choices will be available. Free family
fun! Shawnee Prairie Preserve, 4267 State Route 502, Greenville, Ohio
937.548.0165
www.darkcountyparks.org.
How about the 49th Annual Ohio Gourd Show?! Also on September 24th & 25th, the show brings together many of the finest gourd artists, craftspeople and gourd growers from across the nation. Their specimens will be exhibited in a 145 class competition – all vying for that coveted blue ribbon. Junior gourd enthusiasts also have their own competitive contest. For those who wish to gain a new skill in gourd crafting there will be a wide variety of workshops taught by well-qualified instructors. The little folks may take part in children’s activities both days. Spread out in the outdoor area will be thousands of dry gourds just waiting to be purchased and turned into a “one-of-a-kind” masterpiece. The large trade show offers crafted gourds, paints, tools and seeds – just about anything a “gourder” could want and of course, lots of good food! The event is $3 at the Darke County Fairgrounds. Visit americangourdsociety.org/ohiochapter/ for more info.
Make plans to explore all eight counties of Ohio’s Historic West today, including Auglaize, Champaign, Darke, Logan, Mercer, Miami, Shelby and Van Wert. Check us out on the web at www.OhiosHistoricWest.com or call 800-860-4726 to request a brochure map.
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Fall into
the Autumn Activities in Butler County
Fall Festivals & Halloween Events in The BC
Experience the comforts of your hometown with the adventures of an autumn getaway in Butler County! Our pumpkins are ready for harvesting, we’ve put on the warm apple cider, and our park’s leaves are turning rich shades of orange and red, so don’t miss fall in The BC. Spend time with your family and friends at a number of harvest events, seasonal shopping, and Halloween themed attractions.
Fall fun awaits you and the whole family at the Niederman Family Farm in Liberty Township! This working family farm features a winding 17-acre corn maze, hayrides, pumpkin patch, barnyard animals, a bon fire pit for roasting s'mores, shopping, and more. While you’re there check out Paintball Country, the Gregory Creek Inn Bed & Breakfast, farm livestock, barn rentals, take farm tours, and appreciate farm life in The BC.
Pick up some fresh produce, Amish baked goods, cheese and jellies, fresh and dried floral arrangements, and a variety of other comfort items for fall at Barn-n-Bunk Farm Market in Trenton. This family-owned business, established in 1992, features gift items from 65 local crafters who specialize in woods, fabrics, candles, framed prints, potpourris, furniture, and more.
If you're spending a weekend visiting Miami University, head over to the Butterfield Farm Market in Oxford to spice up your autumn season. This family-run farm market started selling sweet corn at a market back in 1925. Guests will enjoy the 5-acre corn maze, pumpkin patches, hayrides, mums for sale, seasonal goods and snacks, wagon rides, and more.
If Halloween is one of your favorite holidays, then The BC is the right place for you! EnterTRAINment Junction is hosting the Jack O’Lantern Junction event September 24-October 31. You’ll walk through the trick or treat maze and see kid friendly ghosts and skeletons, stop to color, see Halloweenville the miniature animated display, and enjoy the area’s only indoor Pumpkin Patch where kids get a free mini pumpkin. Also open this year are two outdoor kid’s train rides themed for the Halloween season.
Glow in the dark mini golf? Yes, please! Take the kids and your friends out to Monster Mini Golf in West Chester for some Halloween fun. Open all year round, Monster Mini Golf features a 10,000 sq. ft. 18-hole monster-themed miniature golf course, state-of-the-art arcade games, glow air hockey, great music, and so much more.
The Land of Illusion in Middletown will scare your pants off! Test your courage in the Temple of Terror, with the 3-D Killer Klowns, in the Voodoo Bayou, in the Field of Screams, in the Middletown Haunted Trail, or Dr. Psycho's Haunted Estate. And, boogie down to some dark beats at Club Zombie!
The Butler County Visitors Bureau is dedicate to promoting tourism across Butler County through sporting events, group tour, tourist events, and attractions. The BCVB is located at 8750 Union Centre Boulevard in West Chester, Ohio.
For more information or to request a FREE Visitor’s Guide, visit www.gettothebc.com or call 888-462-2282.
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The Great Mohican
POW-WOW!
Some
claim to be the greatest show on (planet) Earth. This is the greatest
show, literally, on earth (soil). The Great Mohican Indian Pow-Wow has
been named in the past as one
the top 100 shows in North America by the American Bus Association.
In a word – mesmerizing!
If you have never experienced the cultural phenomenon known as Pow-Wow, then the perfect opportunity is in Loudonville, Ohio from September 16-18, 2011 for The Great Mohican Pow-Wow. This is no hobbyist show. It’s the real-deal in all its grand splendor. It features the best from around the country, whether it is storytellers, flutists, singers, drumming, hoop dancing or the brilliant colors adorned by tribal traditionalists.
And that’s just for starters.
The backdrop of the wooded valley and hills of the Mohican Reservation makes the setting vivid in every detail. Look around and you may feel like the land has not changed since Indians lived there. Well, at least until you hear the superb sound system that sends drum beats, music and singing straight to your soul. In fact, the audio-visual will make every fiber of your being come alive.
The Great Mohican Pow-Wow features powerful storytelling, world champion hoop dancing, tomahawk throwing, fire starting, and a variety of music, dancing, artisans and customary food. This year, it features a Woodland Indian Educational Program.
Famous performers from around the country will highlight the 3-day celebration, including Douglas Blue Feather (flutist), Lance White Eagle (storyteller), Gichi Nodin (tomahawk thrower), Coyote Dog (fire starter), Daniel Tamper (hoop dancer) and Malkuri (Music of the Andes Mountains). In addition, there will be the Grand Entry and Opening honoring veterans, inter-tribal dancing and much more. The MC throughout the celebration will be Robert White Eagle.
Visitors will experience first-hand, the historic life-ways of 12 northeast tribal cultures. Pow-Wows are celebrations that last for days and are remembered for a lifetime. It is the coming together of Native tribes to honor ancestors and renew their traditions and heritage. They feature custom dancing, colorful ceremonial dress, and passing down of songs, sharing foods and storytelling. All of which are critical to the survival of a culture. One of the most spectacular sights at an authentic Pow-Wow is the palate of color woven throughout the festivities. Dazzling color empowers the soul with energy and excitement.
This remarkable annual celebration seeks to provide the best talent and widest variety of festivities ever. It is a real cultural presentation emphasizing lifestyles, fellowship and competition among tribes. In addition to the Native foods, stories, music, dancing and drum competitions, there are original Native American creations by more than 40 traders, artisans and crafters. Wares on display and for sales include pottery, bead working, knife making, quill working, antler works, fur trading, wood and bone carving, leather work, basket weaving, paintings and jewelry.
The Great Mohican Indian Pow-Wow will be hosted by Mohican Reservation Campgrounds located at 23270 Wally Road South in Loudonville, Ohio 44842. Show dates are September 16-18, 2011. Admission is $8/adult, $14 for a 2-day pass, $21 for a three day pass. Kids’ admission, ages 6-12, is $4/child, $6 for a 2-day pass, $9 for a three day pass. Special discounts are available to colleges, groups, scouts, teachers, seniors and veterans. For complete information or directions, phone 1-800-766-CAMP (2267) or visit www.mohicanpowwow.com.
By Frank R. Satullo, The OhioTraveler
Sponsored Content
Get a Second Chance at Summer
in the Hocking Hills
Everyone deserves a second chance, especially at a summer vacation. This September the Hocking Hills, located in southeast Ohio, has great “Second Summer Specials”. Even if you missed the chance to take a summer vacation between Memorial Day and Labor Day, you get a second chance in September.
The kids are back in school but summer is far from over in the Hocking Hills. The best part of a September getaway to the Hocking Hills is the beautiful weather and the relaxed pace. Add to that great getaway deals and you’ve got a summer vacation that can’t be beat.
It’s still summer in this natural wonderland. The days are warm and the nights a little cooler. The trails are uncrowded. The Hocking River is the perfect place for a leisurely canoe or kayak trip.
Have an ‘old west’ experience as you ride on horseback to a Cowboy Cookout. Did you know the Hocking Hills bridle trails are ranked among the top ten in the world?
Drop a line in Lake Logan and spend less time with your inbox and more time with your tackle box. Point your eyes to the sky and you’ll hear the original “tweets” because Hocking Hills is home to hundreds of varieties of birds. http://www.birdhocking.com.
Feel the need to take to the sky like a bird? Get your adrenalin pumping on the Midwest’s premiere canopy zipline tour. View the spectacular Hocking Hills region from the air with Hocking Hills Scenic Air Tours. Float above it all in a hot air balloon with Hocking Hills Hot Air Ballooning.
Once your feet are back on terra firma how about a round of golf? The scenery is so dazzling you won’t care how many strokes you take. Reintroduce yourself to your inner kid with a round of mini golf. You’ll be amazed at just how challenging a putt-putt course can be.
September weather is the perfect weather for bringing out the toys. Hop on your Harley or drop the top on your convertible and head for the Hills. State Route 56 is where Ford brings their muscle cars for a test drive. Tuesday night is Bike Night at the Millstone BBQ with live entertainment and great Southern Style BBQ. Everyday is Biker day at JimBo’s Bar & Diner which also enjoys the reputation of having the best burger on the planet!
Whether you’re in the mood for an Amish style buffet or gourmet creations from an award winning chef, it’s easy to satisfy your appetite. You can even have the chef come to you. That’s right - the Traveling Chef will come to your cabin and prepare a gourmet feast for you.
Continue that pampering with a massage in the comfort of your cabin with a traveling massage therapist. After a gourmet meal and a massage it’s time to soak in the privacy of the hot tub on the deck of your Hocking Hills cabin.
Finally, gaze at the stars filling the night sky. The Hocking Hills’ sky is the darkest in Ohio as dazzling diamonds dance overhead. Now dream about all you’ll do tomorrow. There’s shopping, museums, galleries, a scenic railroad, rock climbing and rappelling, more hiking, and zzzzzzzz. Sweet dreams!
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ONE LAST HURRAH – WITHOUT KIDS!
Lake Erie Shores and Islands® is Ohio’s summer hot spot but now that the kids are back in school and the weather warms to a more comfortable level, it’s time for the adults to come out and play!
September and October are ideal for an Ohio coastal getaway, especially for empty-nesters, young couples, girlfriend getaways and male bonding.
It’s an invitation to blaze a wine trail that leaves a sweet sense lingering in the tantalizing coastal breeze or to embark on a harvest spree at a variety of farmers markets and pick-your-own orchards. If you seek activities, Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores and Islands is festival-rich in the fall and nearly every summer attraction is still open! Plus, all this fun comes with specials galore on lodging, dining, shopping, you name it. This and more await at Lake Erie Shores and Islands – the getaway that’s not far away.
Choose from more than a dozen beaches to sink your toes into. The days are still hot, the water’s just right and the tranquility surrounds an abundance of options.
Fire-up a grill and barbecue. Lounge around picnic tables or in the shade of a pavilion. Go fishing! Get your blood flowing by playing a game of tennis, softball or basketball. For some, a good walk will do. And nothing satisfies a walk more than gorgeous surroundings. So take a stroll along the water’s edge, on a trail through wetlands or in the woods.
One of the more unique strolls you can take is to several historic lighthouses in the area. It’ll be the last time of the year you can tour the picturesque Marblehead Lighthouse. It is the oldest continually operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes dating back to 1822. Guided lighthouse tours are available on the second Saturday of each month until October from 10 am-2:45 pm. The Marblehead Lighthouse Historical Society Museum, located on site, is open during the same hours.
If you really need to relax, pick from a bunch of award-winning wineries in the area.
Choose your own route as you tour parts of Northern Ohio wine country in search of the perfect taste you can take home in a bottle. Winery locales range from a historic harbor town to rolling farmland and everything in-between, the diverse settings include woodland trails, countryside bursting with hues of autumn, harbor activity and of course, sprawling vineyards ripe with just the right combination to please even the most discerning sensory examination.
Tasting rooms feature selections ranging from French varietals to American and hybrid wines, including regional and viniferous wines. Behind the scenes tours share the wine-making process. To go with your wine are great menu selections from light appetizers to a picnic basket full of goodies to enjoy on the lush lawn of an old estate, colorful garden or along a pine grove. Don’t miss the fall Island Wine Festival at Put-In-Bay. Representatives from wineries across the U.S. will be on hand for festival goers to sample more than 250 of their wines. If you prefer the brew to the bubbly, you’ll want to visit Milan on for their annual beer tasting event featuring Ohio-brewed beers.
Speaking of festivals and other events, late summer and early fall along Lake Erie Shores and Islands is loaded with fun to pique anyone’s interest.
Let’s start with the biggies. The biggest one-day festival in Ohio is the legendary Woollybear Festival. The biggest in-water boat show on the Great Lakes is the North American In-Water Boat Show. Perhaps the biggest catch comes with the annual ESPN Toyota Tundra Bassmaster Weekend Series Tournament.
One of the most unique activities anywhere is when Monarch butterflies move through the area on their way to Mexico. Several events are centered on fall migrating patterns, including the Butterfly Festival, Great Black-backed Gull Watch and the Feathers and Foliage Bird Fest. Other outdoor fun comes with the Sunset Hike, Full Moon Night Hike and Full Moon Canoe Float.
Foodies can sink their teeth into a melon fest, apple fest, clam bake, lobsterfest, chili cook-off and farmers markets galore. Sample fresh produce for your kitchen, or let someone else do the prep and enjoy a gourmet meal at one of the area’s fine restaurants.
History buffs can venture into Historic Weekend for muskets and cannons or experience the 1700-1800’s at Historic Lyme Village’s Pioneer Days. Commemorate the sesquicentennial of the Civil War with a live reenactment at the Hayes Presidential Center. If you want to take in nine innings of America’s greatest pastime, watch an old-fashioned ballgame between the Ohio Historical Society Muffins and the Mossbacks. If your historical interests are more in-line with classic cars, checkout Cruisin’ by the Bay. And to really get the wheels turning, motor over to the MSA & Sandusky Speedway Championship.
Fall fun wouldn’t be complete without true seasonal staples such as Oktoberfest. Other October events come by names such as Boo at the Bay, OcTogaWeen Pub Crawl, and Enchante Cabaret: Witches Brew.
Get one last hurrah at the greatest amusement park on Earth during HalloWeekends! Enjoy live shows, haunted attractions, a daily Monster Midway Celebration parade and, of course, rides, including more roller coasters than any park in the world. There’s a reason Cedar Point was voted the "World's Best Amusement Park" 13 years running. If some of these roller-coasters scared you in broad daylight, wait ‘til the night comes alive during HalloWeekends.
Dates, locations and every detail you need to know to plan a visit to all of these attractions, festivals and events are found at www.SHORESandISLANDS.com. In addition, you will find savings and lodging specials highlighted there.
Sponsored Content
-
Columbus Farm-to-Table Package with overnight
accommodations at the Crowne Plaza Columbus Downtown or The Lofts Hotel: In all
instances, the guest is offered a savings of over $50.00! It includes
admission for two to Franklin Park Conservatory’s new Hungry Planet Exhibit and
4-acre Scotts Miracle-Gro Community Garden Campus, two tickets to a culinary
tour by Columbus Food Adventures, and breakfast for two the following morning
at Max and Erma’s on the Boulevard. Call
(614) 461-2642 for availability, further
details and restrictions.
-
Keim Family (Amish) Market in Southwest Ohio is now offering 20% off all
children's play sets currently on display. Free delivery of barns if within 100
miles and free delivery and set-up of gazebos within 50 miles! http://www.ohiotraveler.com/keim_family_market.htm
-
Kelton House Museum & Garden: Say you read it on OhioTraveler.com and you'll
get 2 Admissions for the price of 1. Good for audio or docent-led tours Monday
through Friday, 10 am to 3 pm or Sundays from 1 - 4 pm (Not applicable to
special events). Good through June 30, 2012.
keltonhouse@cs.com
-
More Reds fun at ½ the price! Book your hotel online at www.CincinnatiUSA.com/reds and order your Reds home game tickets at ½ price. The last regular season game is September 21, so book your package today.
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Cincinnati Zoo Vacation Package. Treat your family to one of the nation’s top zoos and experience more animals and more fun! Package includes: Accommodations at a Cincinnati USA hotel and general admission to the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Book your package today at www.CincinnatiUSA.com/
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Ride and Roar Family Vacation. Your three-day Ride and Roar Getaway includes, 4 tickets to Kings Island, 4 tickets to the Cincinnati Zoo, 2-nights lodging with FREE Breakfast at one of four exclusive hotels, FREE money-saving coupons and discounts to local merchants and restaurants. Book now and Save at www.rideandroar.com.
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Thank you for visiting OhioTraveler.com.
Ohio travel and tourism guide to Ohio tourist attractions and Ohio vacation destinations in Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati and all Ohio featuring Ohio travel information on festivals and events, tours, museums, arts, restaurants, lodging, wineries, parks, historic sites, outdoor activities, recreation and leisure activities and entertainment coupons, discounts and other travel deals along Ohio's roads less traveled.
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PUMPKINFEST
Where can you find pumpkin pancakes, pumpkin ale, pumpkin pie and giant pumpkins tipping the scales at over 1,000 pounds? New Bremen, Ohio is the place, September 23 & 24 the dates for Pumpkinfest 2011. The Giant Pumpkin Growers of New Bremen host this delicious, fun filled event every fall at the Crown Pavilion, along the banks of the Miami & Erie Canal.
While they take the growing of giant pumpkins seriously, when Pumpkinfest rolls around it is time for some fun with the huge orange fruit. In past years giant pumpkins have served as boats and cars in races, they have been dropped from tall heights and the group has been certified by the Guinness Book of World Records for baking the world’s largest pumpkin pie. That pastry weighed in at more than 2000 pounds and was delicious! This year it will be Monster Truck Mayhem as the public is invited to come out and watch as Cyclone, driven by Chuck Sisson, is challenged by the giant pumpkins. Will they become pumpkin purée or will the monster truck meet its match in this machine versus giant pumpkin showdown?
The celebration of all things pumpkin is planned with the whole family in mind. Some of the highlights include a 5K run, pumpkin pie eating contest, inflatable rides, pancake breakfast, OSU football on the big screen, a pumpkin pie bake-off , a poker run, the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off and great music from the Cracker Jax Band, Flight Risk and Reaganomics. There will also be pumpkin go-kart racing and the area mayors will take to the water in the Mayor’s Challenge Pumpkin Regatta. Crazy fun!
The New Bremen Pumpkinfest 2011 is a must for your fall fun calendar. There is no admission charge and parking is free. You can check out a complete schedule of events and see photos and videos of the celebration at GrowGiants.com.
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COVERED BRIDGE FESTIVAL
Looking for an appealing driving experience? Attend the 4th Annual Union County Covered Bridge Festival in Union County, Ohio on Saturday, September 10, 2011.
Enjoy a daylong celebration of the covered bridges. Marysville and Union County villages along the Darby Plains Scenic Byway offer family friendly acities. The bridges may be enjoyed “drive it yourself” style or guests may jump on a bus at Court and Sixth Streets in Marysville for a guided bus tour. Guided tours of all of the bridges (except the new Thompson Road Bridge) begin at 9 am and are offered every 30 minutes. Adult tours are $8 per ticket and children 12 and under are charged $5 each. Listen to the Black Diamond Bluegrass Band on Court Street from 10 am to 2 pm. Guided bus tours of the new Thompson Road Bridge are offered separately due to its remote location. Tours for this new bridge are offered every hour in the afternoon from noon to 3 pm. These tours also leave from Court and Sixth Streets in Uptown Marysville. Adult tours are $5 and children 12 and under pay $3. While at the Thompson Road Bridge, listen to the dulcimers play from noon to 4 pm. Nearby villages, including Milford Center, Plain City and North Lewisburg offer additional activities and live entertainment. For a complete event schedule, go to www.unioncountycvb.org.
Planning to travel to the Festival by motorcycle? C&A Harley-Davidson in Plain City is hosting a motorcycle ride through Union County’s covered bridges. To register, e-mail Melissa at Melissa@ca-hd.com.
While at the Festival, start your Christmas shopping early this year, by enjoying another annual tradition, Festifair Arts & Crafts Show. Shop along Main, Fifth and Court Streets in Uptown Marysville from 9 am to 4 pm to browse items from over 140 crafters. These crafters offer a variety of custom and handmade items including artwork, clothing, jelry, outdoor ornaments, children’s items, holiday decorations and much more! In addition, food vendors, live music and performances are offered throughout the day at Festifair.
Are you a history buff? The Union County Historical Society opens their museum and historic log cabin from 9 am to 4 pm on Saturday with costumed interpreters and butter churning demonstrations in historic Uptown Marysville. A new display of local items in honor of the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War will be showcased. Try a cool treat during the ice cream social beginning at 11 am.
Drive down a day early to catch Friday Nights Uptown in Marysville, where Agent 99 will play live music from 6-10 pm.
Additional activities during the
Festival weekend include the Rotary 5k Run/Walk at Mill Valley in Marysville.
Registration begins at 8 am and the run/walk begins at 9 am. To register, go to
http://rotaryclubofunioncounty.
webs.com/5kevent.htm.
For a complete event schedule or for lodging information, go to www.unioncountycvb.org or call
800-642-0087. For questions about Festifair, e-mail Kim at Festifair@yahoo.com.
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With Fall comes pumpkins, Halloween, football and
…Chili!
A growing community event, the 7th Annual French City Chili Fest will take place in the Gallipolis City Park on Saturday, October 1, 2011 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Chili Cooks from all over the region will arrive early that morning to start preparing their secret recipes in the hopes of taking home the title of Best Chili! There are two categories, Individual and Business, with prizes for the top three in each category. Visitors also have a say as to who they think has the best chili, with the People’s Choice Award.
Next to the beverage tent, one is sure to find a group of people glued to the two 46 inch LCD televisions, cheering on their favorite football team!
Picking a great name is almost as important as finding the right recipe. In the past, competitors included Flamin’ Grilled Chili, the Pink Ladies, Team Redneck, Fire on the River and Lady Marmalade Creole Swamp Chili.
In addition, there will be Inflatables for the Kids and a hotdog eating contest!
Think you have the winning Chili recipe? Call 740-446-0596 for a registration form. The cost is $25 for individuals and $50 for businesses.
Are you a runner? Then join the Gallipolis Lions Club in their Annual Chili Chase the morning of Chili Fest. Taking place on a mostly flat course through the beautiful French City of Gallipolis that includes the City and residential streets, as well as the O.O. McIntyre Hike and Bike Trail, all proceeds go directly to the Gallipolis Lions Club to fight against eye-related complications from Diabetes.
Admission to the Chili Fest is free. Small cups can be purchased to sample each of the contestant’s chili, as well as bowls when you find your favorite one. Can’t wait for the contestant chili? The food tent will also have hotdogs and chili for sale.
Don’t miss this hot event! Please visit www.facebook.com/frenchcitychilifest for more information. For other events going on this fall, visit the Gallia County Convention and Visitors Center’s web site at www.visitgallia.com or call us at 740.446.6882. Make plans now to attend the annual Bob Evans Farm Festival October 14, 15 and 16th. Exciting things are happening at the farm in preparation for this year’s event.
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Getaway to
Coshocton This Fall
Looking for some relaxation and fun just a short drive away from home this season? Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a girlfriend's retreat or a fun family escape, Coshocton County has numerous options sure to fit your desires and budget.
From full-service hotels to bed and breakfasts, luxury cabins, cottages, guest houses and hunters’ cabins, you'll find just the right place to enjoy your getaway. There are several ready-made packages available throughout the year – such as the Wine Tasting Suite Escape, Grab Your Girlfriends and Go Package, or the River Romance Package. Or you can Create-Your-Own Affordable Getaway by selecting your lodging, dining and entertainment options.
You’ll find lots to do in Coshocton with Historic Roscoe Village, Unusual Junction, Antique Shops, Monticello III Horse-Drawn Canal Boat, quaint shops and unique dining options. Plus, this fall you can enjoy events such as the Coshocton County Fair September 30 – October 6, Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival October 14-16, Fall Harvest Big Band Dance October 15, and the Fall Foliage Tour October 15 & 16. You can also meet Wanda Brunstetter, award-wining author or Amish-themed books, in Coshocton this September.
Going on now through October 8, you will find an awesome Civil War Exhibit at the Johnson-Humrickhouse Museum featuring Civil War items including a surgeon’s medical kit, Civil War Medal of Honor, Civil War presentation sword, a Remington 44 army revolver, letters, and much more.
Did you know Coshocton was also home to five wineries? You can easily spend a couple of days following Coshocton’s Three Rivers Wine Trail visiting Rainbow Hills, Yellow Butterfly, Shawnee Springs, Raven’s Glenn and Heritage Vineyards wineries. While staying in Coshocton, you are also centrally located 30 minutes from Amish Country and Longaberger Baskets.
Discover how simple and affordable it is to create your own Getaway Package to Coshocton. Find all this and more at www.VisitCoshocton.com or call 1-800-338-4724.
By Jan Myers
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