As summer winds down, many families look for one last memorable weekend before school schedules, football games, and fall routines take over. Across southern Ohio, one tradition continues to draw visitors looking for a slower pace, handcrafted quality, and a genuine small-town experience.

Nestled in the Amish countryside, Miller’s Furniture has become more than a destination to shop for furniture. For many families, it has become part of an annual summer tradition.

Unlike at large chain stores, where furniture often arrives flat-packed and mass-produced, visitors to Miller’s discover solid-wood craftsmanship built to last for generations. Dining tables become the center of holiday gatherings. Bedroom sets become family heirlooms. Rocking chairs become the place where grandparents tell stories to grandchildren. Every piece is designed with longevity in mind, offering an alternative to furniture that is replaced every few years.

Late summer is also an ideal time for homeowners to refresh both indoor and outdoor living spaces. Whether preparing for back-to-school organization, creating a welcoming guest room for holiday visitors, or adding comfortable seating around a backyard fire pit, many families find themselves thinking about the spaces where memories are made.

Outdoor living continues to be one of the biggest trends in home design. Adirondack chairs, porch furniture, gliders, and patio collections allow families to enjoy cooler evenings well into the fall season. Investing in quality outdoor furniture means those pieces can be enjoyed year after year rather than replaced after a few seasons.

Inside the showroom, visitors will find a wide variety of styles ranging from traditional Amish craftsmanship to clean, modern farmhouse designs and contemporary collections. Home accents, décor, and accessories help complete each room, making it easy to find inspiration whether furnishing an entire home or simply updating a favorite space.

For many visitors, the trip is about much more than furniture. The surrounding countryside offers a peaceful escape from busy schedules. Families often spend the day exploring local shops, enjoying homemade baked goods, browsing bulk foods, and taking in the scenic drive through one of Ohio’s most beautiful rural communities. It is a reminder that shopping can still be an experience instead of simply another online purchase.

That experience has helped build lasting relationships with customers from throughout Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and beyond. Many return year after year, bringing children and grandchildren who eventually begin furnishing their own homes.

As Labor Day approaches and thoughts turn toward fall gatherings and holiday entertaining, now is an excellent time to invest in furniture designed to last for decades rather than just seasons. Choosing quality craftsmanship today means creating spaces where future family memories will unfold for years to come.

For those looking to enjoy one final summer road trip before autumn arrives, a visit to Miller’s Furniture offers more than beautiful furniture. It offers an opportunity to slow down, experience authentic craftsmanship, and enjoy a destination that has welcomed families for generations.

Plan your day trip at Miller’s Furniture.

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The Ohio Foothills is one of the Midwest’s most compelling travel destinations, inviting visitors to wander freely while exploring a region rich in unique experiences for the whole family. The region is home to 10 counties in the Appalachian Foothills that showcase the heritage and creativity of the people who make it a hidden gem.

The Ohio Foothills region is filled with history! Come to hear stories of prehistoric peoples, of Revolutionary War battles, and of Civil War and modern-day heroes. Stories are told through theater, historic sites, museums, and festivals throughout the region. The Coshocton Flint Festival and Knap-In is a bi-annual gathering of prehistoric artifact collectors and knappers, or people who create flint arrowheads and points. Trumpet in the Land is Ohio’s longest-running outdoor drama, telling the story of Schoenbrunn, Ohio’s oldest Christian settlement, founded in 1772. Fort Laurens is the site of Ohio’s only Revolutionary War fort and battle. Fort Steuben was built in 1786 to protect surveyors of the Northwest Territories. The McCook House features information about the nine McCook brothers who served in the Union Army during the Civil War, five of whom were generals. The new Underground Railroad Museum Ohio Valley shares the history of America and its connection to the region by displaying more than 8,000 artifacts. Other stories told in the region include the arrival of religious groups from Europe. Zoar Village was founded in 1817 by German religious dissenters. Amish and Mennonites began arriving in the region in 1809.  Behalt Amish and Mennonite Center tells its story through a 10-by-226-foot cyclorama painting. Yoder’s Amish Home explains modern Amish traditions, as well as schooling, farming, and transportation.

Tales of the Ohio and Erie Canal are told at Historic Roscoe Village and aboard the Monticello III Horse-Drawn Canal Boat Ride. Veteran stories are honored at The Dennison Railroad Depot Museum and at The John and Annie Glenn Homestead, the childhood home of WWII veteran, astronaut and Senator John Glenn. Other notable Americans from the Ohio Foothills are honored with museums, murals, and monuments, including George Armstrong Custer, Zane Grey, Clark Gable, Woody Hayes, and Cy Young.

Arts and culture are an important part of life in The Ohio Foothills. Warm summer months are celebrated with court square concerts and multi-day music festivals, including Alive and Rock Coshocton. Venues like the Pritchard Laughlin Center and Performing Arts Center at Kent State Tuscarawas, along with many regional community theaters, present concerts and theatrical productions year-round. Pottery, glass, and sculpture are showcased at The Zanesville Art Museum, Alan Cottrill Studio and Gallery, Inn at Honey Run Outdoor Art Museum, and Mosser Glass, as well as many area shops, galleries, and antique malls. World-class carver Ernest “Mooney” Warther was born in the 1880’s and spent his free time carving intricately detailed scale models of steam engines. The Ernest Warther Museum features his work, along with an extensive Swiss garden and “Button House,” which showcases his wife Freida’s collection of beautifully displayed buttons. Mooney’s grandson, David, specializes in maritime carvings; his work is showcased in the David Warther Museum.

Unique festivals fill the calendar each year, giving guests an opportunity to sample the flavors and sounds of life in The Ohio Foothills. Agriculture is celebrated at area farm markets and at festivals, including the Bolivar Strawberry Festival, Barnesville Pumpkin Show, Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival, Paul Bunyan Show, and Coshocton Sunflower Festival. Special winter events fill towns with holiday light displays, live nativity scenes, life-sized nutcrackers, Charles Dickens characters, and tree-lighting ceremonies.

With its creative and welcoming people, the Ohio Foothills is the perfect place to explore history and culture. The ten Appalachian Ohio counties that comprise the region are Belmont, Carroll, Columbiana, Coshocton, Guernsey, Harrison, Holmes, Jefferson, Muskingum, and Tuscarawas. Defined by rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountain region, the region is filled with charming towns and cities nestled within the scenery of the region’s rivers, hills and valleys, and wooded areas. Learn more about all The Ohio Foothills has to offer at VisitOhioFoothills.com.

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in Marion, Ohio 

Crisp air, vibrant fall colors, fresh-picked apples, live music, and unforgettable festivals—autumn comes alive in Marion, Ohio. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a spontaneous day trip, Marion offers the perfect mix of small-town charm and big seasonal experiences. From family-friendly festivals and scenic trails to historic attractions and delicious local flavors, there’s no better place to celebrate the season.

Kick Off Fall at Lawrence Orchards 

Nothing says fall quite like a visit to Lawrence Orchards. Beginning August 29 and continuing through October 31, Harvest Saturdays bring a new adventure every weekend. From Dog Daze and Scarecrow Making to exciting Treasure Hunts, every visit offers something different for the whole family.

Spend the day picking your own apples, enjoy local food trucks from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and soak in the sights, smells, and flavors of the season. Then, circle September 26 on your calendar for Applefest—a full day of fall fun featuring Riverside Ice Cream, Remnant Coffee, Charlie’s Kettle Corn, a caramel apple bar, homemade apple pie, and so much more. It’s the ultimate autumn tradition you won’t want to miss.

Experience Marion’s Biggest Celebration 

If you love festivals, the Marion Popcorn Festival belongs at the top of your fall bucket list.

Held annually on the weekend after Labor Day, downtown Marion transforms into three unforgettable days of live entertainment, exciting rides, mouthwatering festival food, shopping, games, and nonstop fun. The festival runs Thursday through Saturday from 11 a.m. until midnight, giving visitors plenty of time to experience it all.

Music lovers will find something to cheer about every night with performances by SafeKept, Whitesnaked, Into The Blue, Steamtown Road, Cassadee Pope, Hard Drive, and Queensrÿche. Beyond the Main Stage, enjoy entertainment throughout the festival at the Poppin’ Party Stage, Community Showcase Stage, and the historic Marion Palace Theatre.

Of course, no festival is complete without incredible food. Grab crowd favorites like bourbon chicken, cheese on a stick, funnel cakes, and stromboli before taking on the midway rides and games. Whether you’re visiting for the music, the food, or the family fun, the Marion Popcorn Festival is an experience you’ll be talking about long after the leaves have fallen.

Explore the Colors of Fall 

When the leaves begin to change, Marion becomes a picture-perfect destination for outdoor adventure.

Take in the breathtaking scenery along the 12.4-mile Tallgrass Trail, a paved and wheelchair-accessible path perfect for walking, biking, or simply enjoying the beauty of the season. Looking to spend time on the water? Bring your canoe or kayak to Foundation Lake and experience the peaceful colors of autumn from a whole new perspective.

Feeling competitive? Challenge friends and family to a round of disc golf at OSUM or Sawyer Ludwig Park. Before Labor Day, finish your fun with miniature golf at Paradise Park before treating yourself to a scoop of ice cream, the perfect ending to a perfect fall day.

Discover Marion’s Rich History 

When the weather calls for an indoor adventure, Marion offers fascinating experiences for history lovers of all ages.

Step back in time at the Harding Presidential Library & Museum or tour the Harding Home to learn about America’s 29^th president. Explore the Huber Museum, where remarkable collections of early machinery showcase the innovation that helped build America. Railroad enthusiasts won’t want to miss Marion Union Station, where the city’s rich railroad heritage comes to life through exhibits and memorabilia.

Your Perfect Fall Getaway Starts Here 

This autumn, make Marion, Ohio your destination for unforgettable memories. Spend the morning picking apples, enjoy an afternoon festival filled with music and food, explore colorful trails, and discover the stories that shaped the community. However you choose to experience Marion, you’ll find warm hospitality, endless seasonal adventures, and the kind of small-town charm that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Come experience fall in Marion, Ohio—and make this season one to remember.

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Agritourism Adventures, Local Flavors, and Unforgettable Getaways

As crisp autumn air settles across Ohio, Wayne County emerges as one of the state’s most rewarding destinations for travelers seeking authentic rural experiences. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, scenic countryside, and welcoming small-town charm, Wayne County offers visitors the opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the best of Ohio’s harvest season.

For travelers who appreciate scenic drives, farm-fresh food, local wine, and memorable outdoor experiences, a fall getaway to Wayne County delivers the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.

One of the county’s signature fall destinations is Ramseyer Farms, a fifth-generation family farm that has become a tradition for generations of Ohio families. During the harvest season, visitors can spend an entire day exploring corn mazes, selecting pumpkins, taking wagon rides, and enjoying dozens of farm-themed activities.

Another must-visit stop is Hummingbird Hill Flower Farm in Shreve. Late summer and early fall bring vibrant displays of dahlias, zinnias, and seasonal blooms across six acres of beautifully maintained gardens. Guests can stroll through flower fields, participate in workshops, enjoy sunset events, or simply relax while taking in sweeping countryside views.

For those who enjoy gardens, nature, and lifelong learning, Secrest Arboretum at The Ohio State University Wooster Campus offers a spectacular autumn experience. Walking paths wind through extensive collections of trees, shrubs, and themed gardens, showcasing some of Northeast Ohio’s most impressive fall color.

No visit to Wayne County is complete without sampling the area’s thriving wine and cider scene. Lincoln Way Vineyards has become a favorite destination for visitors looking to pair beautiful countryside views with locally crafted wines and hard ciders. Guided vineyard tours, tasting experiences, live entertainment, and seasonal events provide guests with an enjoyable way to experience Ohio agriculture from vine to glass.

Just a short drive away, Bent Ladder Cider and Wine showcases estate-grown wines and handcrafted ciders in a picturesque rural setting. The vineyard and orchard create an inviting atmosphere where visitors can relax and savor the flavors of the season while overlooking the beautiful countryside.

Wayne County’s agricultural heritage is equally evident in its dining scene. The Pine Tree Barn combines fresh, locally inspired cuisine with panoramic views of the scenic Killbuck Valley. Housed within a beautifully restored historic barn, the restaurant offers a memorable dining experience that perfectly complements a day spent exploring the county’s farms and attractions.

For an elevated culinary experience, City Square Steakhouse in downtown Wooster showcases Ohio-raised products and seasonal ingredients in an elegant yet welcoming setting. Who doesn’t love a good steak dinner?

After a day of exploring, Wayne County offers unique lodging experiences that encourage visitors to stay a little longer. Sojourner’s Lodge & Log Cabin Suites provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by rolling farmland, wooded trails, and a picturesque pond. Situated on 30 acres in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country, the property features spacious suites with fireplaces, full kitchens, and private outdoor spaces.

Those looking for a one-of-a-kind outdoor getaway will find it at Roosevelt Glamping near Wooster. Located on 60 secluded acres, guests can choose between a cozy cabin or a safari-style glamping tent overlooking a creek. You will feel miles away the moment you enter the property.

For adults looking to rediscover the simple pleasures of the season, Wayne County offers more than a weekend getaway; it offers a chance to experience Ohio’s agricultural heritage firsthand. Whether savoring local wines, enjoying farm-to-table cuisine, wandering through flower fields, admiring autumn colors, or relaxing in a countryside retreat, visitors will find countless reasons to return year after year.

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Where One Experience Leads to Another

Some places are easy to sum up. You visit the landmark everyone talks about, enjoy a good meal, and head home feeling like you’ve seen it all. Chillicothe has a different way of introducing itself. What begins with one reason to visit often becomes several more, unfolding from ancient earthworks and scenic overlooks to lively evenings downtown, memorable meals, and experiences that linger long after the drive home.

For many, that first impression begins at Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, one of the eight sites that make up Ohio’s only UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking the sweeping geometric landscapes built nearly 2,000 years ago has a way of slowing the pace. It’s a place that invites quiet reflection while reminding visitors that some of the world’s most remarkable stories are found in unexpected places.

That sense of discovery doesn’t end there. Just a few minutes away, Adena Mansion & Gardens offers another window into Ohio’s past, where rolling hills frame the estate of Thomas Worthington, one of the state’s earliest leaders. Nearby, the Ross County Historical Society connects the people, places, and moments that shaped Chillicothe into the community it is today. Together, they tell a story that stretches across centuries, yet somehow never feel confined to history books.

Before long, those stories give way to another side of Chillicothe. Historic brick buildings line downtown streets where locally owned boutiques, specialty shops, galleries, and welcoming storefronts encourage visitors to wander without an agenda. One stop has a way of leading to another. A window display catches your eye. A bookstore invites a closer look. The aroma of fresh coffee or homemade pastries quietly changes afternoon plans, and suddenly there’s no hurry to head back to the car.

That unhurried feeling carries naturally into the city’s dining scene. Lunch might become an extended conversation over smoked barbecue at Old Canal Smokehouse, while dinner could mean sharing elevated comfort food at The Pour House at Machinery Hall, where a beautifully restored building adds its own character to the meal. Families looking for something sweet often make one last stop at Parkside Ice Creamery before continuing their stroll through downtown.

Just when it feels like the day has reached its natural conclusion, Chillicothe finds another way to surprise its guests. During the summer, the hills come alive with “Tecumseh!” Outdoor Drama, where the story of the legendary Shawnee leader unfolds beneath the night sky in one of Ohio’s most celebrated outdoor theatrical productions. With performances continuing through Labor Day weekend, August offers one of the last opportunities each year to experience this unforgettable tradition. At other times of the year, the historic Majestic Theatre fills evenings with concerts and live performances, proving that the city’s cultural scene continues long after the sun goes down.

Families can add another unexpected stop with the First Capital Hologram Zoo, where immersive holographic adventures transport visitors from prehistoric landscapes to underwater worlds without ever leaving downtown. It feels delightfully different, adding another layer to a weekend already filled with contrasts.

The next morning may call for fresh air instead of another museum. Great Seal State Park offers miles of wooded trails where each turn reveals another glimpse of southern Ohio’s rolling landscape. A short drive away, Earl H. Barnhart “Buzzard’s Roost” Nature Preserve rewards hikers with one of the region’s most breathtaking overlooks, where forested hills seem to stretch endlessly toward the horizon. Standing there, it’s easy to understand why so many visitors linger a little longer before turning back toward town.

Throughout the year, festivals and community celebrations add even more reasons to return. As summer gives way to autumn, colorful hillsides frame scenic drives, local festivals fill the calendar, and familiar streets take on an entirely different character. Each season seems to reveal another side of Chillicothe, ensuring that no two visits feel exactly alike.

Perhaps that’s what makes this corner of Ohio so memorable. It’s not simply the collection of attractions, but the way each experience naturally leads to the next. Visitors arrive with a plan, only to find themselves lingering over dinner, adding one more stop to the afternoon, or promising they’ll come back for the festival they just missed. Some places are easy to cross off a list. Chillicothe is the kind of place that quietly earns another weekend.

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At Niederman Family Farm

While America is celebrating 250 years, a small family farm in Southwest Ohio is also celebrating a large milestone—25 years of fall fun.

From humble beginnings, with the corn maze as the main attraction, to exciting growth over the years, the farm now features over 50 activities and attractions. At the heart of it all, though, remains the corn maze. The maze design is extra special this year. It’s a tribute to where it all began—honoring the very first corn maze the late owner Bob Niederman designed and planted 25 years ago—and a celebration of the country the Niederman Family is proud to call home as America marks its 250th birthday. This design is their way of celebrating the journey that brought them here: “A tribute to our roots, a celebration of today and excitement for the future!” Stated Bethann Niederman. This 4-acre maze features The Liberty Bell, and “2026” is the little sprout route for younger kids and field trips. Visit Niederman Family Farm’s website to learn more about the fall festival and how you can celebrate 25 years of fun.

Make a day of visiting the farm this fall and create memories that will last a lifetime. From wandering through the corn maze and taking a relaxing wagon ride to enjoying all the family-friendly activities in between, every moment is a chance to slow down, laugh together, and celebrate the simple joys of the season. Before you know it, the day will be filled with smiles, traditions, and the kind of fall memories you’ll cherish for years to come. The best part of a memory is making it, and the Niederman Family can’t wait to make a fall memory with you!

What else does the farm have going on in the fall? There are educational field trips for kids during the week. Learning about the pumpkin life cycle, taking a wagon ride, walking through the corn maze, and selecting their own tiny take-home pumpkin is all part of the field trip experience. Tuesdays and Wednesdays offer private rentals for groups and schools to enjoy the whole farm. Thursday – Sunday, the farm is open to the public for the fall festival along with bonfires and group rental spaces. Niederman Family Farm is a great location for church outings, a corporate fall outing, sports team outings, scout outings, birthday party celebrations, and friends looking for a reason to get together. Who doesn’t love sitting around a bonfire roasting a s’more on a chilly fall night?

And don’t forget about the food! Niederman Family Farm has all your fall favorites. From their famous vanilla cake donuts rolled in cinnamon sugar to fresh-dipped caramel apples and kettle corn, there are yummy treats all over the farm. Their market is your one-stop shop for fresh cider, pumpkins, apple butter, and fall decorations, so make sure you check that out! No admission is needed to visit the market.

Fall is a busy season that seems to fly by in the blink of an eye, so start planning your trip now to Niederman Family Farm! Buy admission tickets online and save, but also watch for promotions they will be running leading up to opening weekend on September 25th. If your weekends get too busy, check out the farm on a Thursday night when they offer 25% off admission in honor of season 25.

Click here for more details and bonfire rentals.

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Experience Greater Lima, Ohio

When the air turns crisp and the first leaves begin to glow in shades of gold and crimson, Greater Lima transforms into one of Ohio’s most inviting destinations for a seasonal getaway. Colorful festivals and scenic parks naturally transition to sparkling holiday lights and heritage traditions. Communities throughout Allen County offer countless reasons to embrace the best of fall before seamlessly welcoming the magic of the holiday season.

Autumn arrives with a spectacular display across Greater Lima’s more than 25 parks and recreation areas. Whether visitors prefer a leisurely afternoon walk, a peaceful hike through wooded trails, or simply a scenic drive, the region’s parks provide a front-row seat to Ohio’s vibrant fall colors. The Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District and Lima City Parks feature miles of trails where towering trees create canopies of brilliant reds, oranges, and yellows, making every outing feel like stepping into a postcard. Whether on bike or on foot, it’s the perfect time to slow down, breathe in the cool autumn air, and experience the natural beauty that surrounds Greater Lima.

As the season unfolds, communities throughout Allen County come alive with festivals that celebrate everything autumn. On September 26, one of the area’s most anticipated traditions returns with the Bluffton Fall Festival. The celebration fills downtown Bluffton with local artisans, family activities, seasonal treats, live entertainment, and the unmistakable charm of one of Ohio’s most welcoming small towns. The festivities extend beyond Main Street to the Swiss Community Historical Society’s Schumacher Homestead, where visitors can step back in time through historic demonstrations, heritage exhibits, and activities celebrating Bluffton’s rich Swiss roots. Together, these experiences create a full day of small-town charm, local culture, and autumn traditions that have made the Bluffton Fall Festival a favorite for generations.

On October 2 and 3, downtown Lima becomes the center of Ohio’s giant pumpkin season as Pumpkin Invasion brings together some of the region’s top pumpkin growers and talented carvers for a weekend of competition and celebration. Visitors can witness impressive pumpkin weigh-ins, watch incredible carving demonstrations as oversized gourds are transformed into works of art, and enjoy a full schedule of family-friendly activities. Delicious food, live entertainment, local shopping, and festive downtown energy create an unforgettable fall experience. Whether admiring record-breaking pumpkins or exploring the many attractions throughout the event, Pumpkin Invasion offers a uniquely Greater Lima experience that continues to grow each year.

The fall calendar continues with even more opportunities to experience the season. On October 3 and 4, Johnny Appleseed Park District through Lauer Historical Farm hosts its biennial Apple Festival, where the aroma of apple-themed treats fills the air alongside food trucks, artisan and craft vendors, baked goods, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities. It’s the kind of event that invites visitors to spend an afternoon browsing handmade goods, enjoying seasonal flavors, and celebrating one of autumn’s favorite harvests. Later in the season, from October 30 through November 1, history comes to life as Lauer Historical Farm hosts immersive World War II reenactments. Authentic military encampments, living history demonstrations, restored vehicles, and battle reenactments offer visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past while honoring the stories of those who served.

Beyond the festivals, autumn in Greater Lima invites visitors to linger a little longer. Local coffee shops become cozy retreats for warming up with a seasonal latte, restaurants feature comforting fall flavors, and downtown districts offer unique boutiques perfect for discovering one-of-a-kind gifts before the holiday shopping rush begins. The slower pace of the season encourages visitors to explore neighboring communities, uncover hidden gems, and experience the hospitality that makes Greater Lima more than simply a stop along Interstate 75. 

As November gives way to December, the region effortlessly shifts from harvest celebrations to holiday traditions. The Downtown Lima, Inc. Holiday Festival marks the beginning of the season with festive decorations, cheerful entertainment, visits from Santa, holiday shopping, and activities that bring families together in the heart of downtown. Just minutes away, the Allen County Museum’s Christmas Tree Festival invites visitors to stroll among more than 100 beautifully decorated Christmas trees and wreaths, each uniquely designed by local businesses and community organizations. Families can also enjoy holiday activities throughout the museum, including a visit with everyone’s favorite Evergreen, the Talking Tree. Twinkling lights line the streets while local businesses welcome visitors with seasonal specials and warm hospitality, creating the kind of hometown holiday experience that many travelers seek.

The celebration continues at Mercy Health’s Bright Nights at the Allen County Fairgrounds, where one of northwest Ohio’s most beloved holiday traditions illuminates the winter evenings. Visitors can drive through dazzling displays featuring thousands of lights that transform the fairgrounds into a festive wonderland. Families return year after year to experience the colorful displays, share holiday traditions, and create lasting memories together. It’s the perfect finale to a day spent exploring Greater Lima’s shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Every season tells a different story in Greater Lima, but fall and the holidays may be among its most memorable chapters. Vibrant foliage gives way to pumpkin-filled celebrations before sparkling holiday lights take center stage, creating months filled with opportunities to explore, celebrate, and reconnect with family and friends. Those looking for inspiration for their next Ohio getaway can discover upcoming events, attractions, and trip ideas by visiting visitgreaterlima.com and browsing the area’s event calendar.

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“Autumn leaves don’t fall; they fly. They take their time and wonder on this, their only chance to soar.” -Delia Owens.

Now is your time to take in these vibrant colors, breathe in that crisp fall air, and relax in the beauty of Mohican Country. Local farmers markets have pumpkins, mums and more, out and ready to sell. As the Camp & Canoe Capital of Ohio, canoeing is not over. What a treat to float down the Mohican State Scenic River under an arbor of color. Some of the canoe liveries are open through October. It is a perfect time to grab a camera with family and friends and enjoy the river’s serenity.

Stay in a treehouse, castle, resort, inn, historic bed and breakfast, or a choice of one of many private cabins. Several of the private cabins or cottages have hot tubs, spectacular views, all the amenities of home, and some are even pet-friendly.

Fall is full of activities that will keep everyone having fun while enjoying all there is to offer. Embrace the view at the Gorge overlook, climb the fire tower, or take a stroll across two covered bridges. September kicks off back-to-back events with the Large Cars Truck Show, Mohican Traditions Festival, Log Cabin Days, Mohican Pow-Wow, Mohican Bluegrass Festival, and the 2^nd annual Mohican Bigfoot Festival. Finishing the month with Oktoberfest at the Mill, Ohio Heritage Days and Prairie Peddler. Begin your October with Ghost Hikes at Malabar Farm State Park. Or spend your day playing games, riding rides or checking out the vendors and displays at the Loudonville Street Fair. Magnificent fall colors will be ablaze late fall for a drive-it-yourself fall foliage tour. Come November, lace up your racing shoes for the Mohican 5K or the Fuzzy Fandango.

Events and adventures are in no shortage at Mohican throughout the rest of the year! Check out DiscoverMohican.com for a complete list of events!

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Stroll through the historic Grove City Town Center, savor local eats, and explore miles of scenic trails, all just seven miles from downtown Columbus. From family-friendly festivals to unique local shops, Grove City promises not to bore. Whether you’re visiting or planting roots, you’ll find more than just a place; you’ll find your Altogether Adventure®.

Festival season spans the calendar in Grove City. For those with a taste for bourbon (and other spirits), put Grove City Town Center’s Bourbon and Spirits Festival on your calendar for August 8th. Tip: Grab event tickets in advance and skip the line at the ticket booth. Opt for VIP tickets to access premium-level tastes, the best swag bags, and the VIP lounge. Raise a glass and stay the night! Book through Visit Grove City to receive $25 off your VIP ticket, or choose a $10 Lyft credit or $20 dining credit for each night you stay. Learn more here.

September 18th through the 20th ushers in one of Grove City’s most beloved traditions with the Arts in the Alley and The Voice of Grove City. One of the largest art festivals in Columbus, Arts in the Alley celebrates its 46th year of art competitions, exhibitions, a vendor market, a parade, and even a singing competition called “The Voice of Grove City”. The festival is situated in the walkable Town Center, so you’ll want to book a stay and spend the weekend soaking up the arts, shopping at area boutiques, and trying the local flavors. Book here and earn a free $20 dining or experience gift card for each night you stay.

Step back in time at Century Village, a park home to eleven historical structures with a story to tell. The Southwest Franklin County Historical Society offers open houses on the fourth Saturday of the month, May through September, from 2pm – 4pm, or visit on October 4th for Old Time Harvest Day. During these events, buildings will be open and populated by characters from a bygone era. Visit the train depot, general store, one-room schoolhouse, and more!

When you need some respite from all of the excitement, escape to one of many area parks. See the bison at Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, the largest metro park in Ohio, or cross the suspension bridge at Scioto Grove Metro Park, where you can camp, climb the fire tower, or take flight with your drone on the designated drone field. If adrenaline-pumping adventure is more your speed, take aim at LVL UP Sports Paintball Park, home to the tallest paintball castle in the Midwest. Tip: Check out their calendar for glow-in-the-dark paintball nights! Get a workout while taking in the beauty of nature while you paddle your way down a national scenic river at Trapper John’s Canoe Livery.

After all of your adventures, you’re sure to work up an appetite. With breakfast pizza, Bavarian pizza, and many others to try, fuel up on the cheesiest adventure around on the Grove City Pizza Trail. Visit participating pizza shops and restaurants from August 27th to November 2nd, spend at least $5, and earn your way toward a prize!

Enjoy getting rewarded for eating and drinking? You won’t want to miss Visit Grove City’s Holiday Cocktail Trail! Kicking off November 19th and running through January 4th, try holiday-inspired libations from participating businesses and earn a free prize. Last year was a custom flask; what will this year be?

Grove City is home to 18 hotels/motels, and there is a place for everyone. Book your stay through Visit Grove City for the lowest rates – guaranteed – and score free gift cards for dining and attractions while you squeeze every last drop out of summer. The fun doesn’t end there; Grove City is filled to the brim with fall and holiday activities, sure to keep you coming back for more.

Grove City is up for fun and down-to-earth. Just seven miles from downtown Columbus, it’s an unexpected nature’s paradise that’s sure to help you get your heart rate up and let your spirit soar. Plan your trip today at VisitGroveCity.com or call 800-539-0405.

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Picture yourself in Medina County for some pop culture fun! The New Medina County Kids Guide offers a snapshot of how you can enjoy the best of the best for attractions, dining, shopping, lodging, and all-out fun around the county. From toy stores to putt-putt, this guide allows you to choose your own adventure and shares all the important details you’ll need to plan your getaway to Medina County. Download or request the Kids Guide here: VisitMedinaCounty.com/kids-guide/

Pop culture fun starts with Sweets and Geeks in Medina. This store boasts nostalgic candy, specialty sodas, and collectors’ favorites, and it aims to become the neighborhood’s favorite place for families and friends to spend time together. With puzzles and games alike, you can plan a day of entertainment in one of their public game spaces. If you’re a seasoned player or looking to start a new collectors’ game, Sweets and Geeks has staff readily available to help you trade, sell, or buy the trading cards and tools to help make you a winner! They also specialize in toys for building, Funko Pops, comic books and figurines of all shapes and sizes. Some customers have shared that they enjoy shopping there because it’s a “candy destination,” and that big-box stores and online shopping don’t come close to the enjoyment you can have in person at Sweets and Geeks!

Black Cat Books is another must-see destination for readers of all ages and for books of all genres. This immersive bookstore has two locations within steps of each other, but goes well beyond your traditional shelves, bringing reading to life. In their children’s section, you can find a whimsically decorated reading area for families. In their Fantasy and Sci Fi sections, you can find moody backdrops, lifelike trees and characters to set the tone for your book search adventure. But Black Cat goes beyond the shelf for readers and book lovers from all over the country. Their events, book signings, and community-boosting festivals have drawn attention, and they have become somewhat famous for their popularity in bringing visitors to Medina. Whether you’re looking for a chance to meet your favorite author and have them sign your books or you desire to enjoy bookish vendors all under one roof, Black Cat events are the perfect way to enhance your bookish enjoyment. They hold events throughout the year and each one holds magic!

Medina County is expecting you and your fellow travelers to plan your getaway for a pop-culture adventure. Come try everything there is to explore, or, if you’ve been here before, come back to find something new!

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At The Ohio River Sternwheel Festival

For 50 years, the Ohio River Sternwheel Festival has celebrated the rich heritage of river travel while welcoming visitors to Marietta for one of the region’s largest and most beloved festivals. What began as a community celebration has evolved into a nationally recognized event, attracting nearly 100,000 visitors each year to Ohio’s first city and the scenic banks of the Ohio River.

Held this year from Friday, September 11, through Sunday, September 13, the festival is preparing to celebrate its golden anniversary. Visitors can look forward to a weekend filled with the traditions they have come to love, along with exciting new attractions and expanded family entertainment.

The Ohio River Sternwheel Festival has long been known for its gathering of authentic sternwheel boats, a tribute to the vessels that once served as the lifeblood of commerce and transportation along America’s inland waterways. Seeing these majestic boats docked along Marietta’s riverfront is a highlight for many visitors, creating a scene that reflects the city’s deep connection to the Ohio River.

For those who want more than a view from shore, Marietta offers a unique opportunity to experience river travel firsthand. Visitors can board authentic sternwheel boats, including the Valley Gem Sternwheeler and the Major/Riviera, for memorable cruises along the Ohio and Muskingum rivers. These excursions provide a rare chance to experience the sights, sounds, and slower pace of traditional river travel while enjoying some of the most scenic views in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Information and tickets for riverboat cruises are available at ValleyGemSternwheeler.com.

While the boats remain at the heart of the festival, the event has grown into a full weekend celebration offering something for every age. Throughout the weekend, festival-goers can enjoy live entertainment featuring local, regional, and nationally known performers. Music fills the riverfront as families gather to enjoy delicious festival food, shopping, activities, and the welcoming atmosphere synonymous with the Sternwheel Festival.

One of the highlights of this year’s celebration will be the 50th Anniversary Sternwheel Fireworks Super Show on Saturday at 9:30 p.m. More than just a fireworks display, this spectacular production will feature aircraft, synchronized drones, lasers, special effects, and a breathtaking fireworks finale over the Ohio River, including a stunning waterfall display from the Williamstown Bridge. Widely regarded as one of the region’s premier fireworks events, this enhanced presentation promises to be an unforgettable centerpiece of the festival’s golden anniversary celebration.

Adding a new dimension to this year’s event is the inaugural Travel Showcase, taking place on Saturday, September 12, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Armory in downtown Marietta. The showcase will feature exhibitors from Ohio, West Virginia, and Indiana, offering visitors an opportunity to discover destinations, attractions, museums, parks, lodging, entertainment venues, and unique experiences throughout the tri-state region.

Whether planning a fall foliage getaway, a winter retreat, a family vacation, or next summer’s road trip, visitors will find plenty of inspiration and travel resources while enjoying one of the Midwest’s most celebrated festivals.

Families will also discover an expanded lineup of children’s activities throughout the weekend. Young festival-goers can enjoy bounce houses, face painting, coloring stations, outdoor games, tie-dye T-shirt activities, and appearances by the popular Highland Cows. Families won’t want to miss demonstrations by the High Performance Canines, showcasing incredible agility and obedience skills.

Designed especially for younger children, the Little Pioneer Zone provides a dedicated space with water play, sand activities, bubbles, and hands-on fun in a safe, engaging environment. A Mother & Children’s Tent will also be available throughout the weekend, offering families a comfortable place to nurse, change diapers, and care for little ones while enjoying the festival.

Additional Sunday attractions include the exciting Captain James E. Sands Memorial Boat Races, where powerful paddle boats take to the Ohio River in tribute to one of the festival’s longtime supporters. Car enthusiasts can also enjoy the Annual Car Show on Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., featuring a wide variety of classic, antique, and custom vehicles along the scenic riverfront.

The addition of these family-friendly attractions reflects the festival’s ongoing commitment to creating memorable experiences for visitors of every generation.

Beyond the entertainment and attractions, the Ohio River Sternwheel Festival remains a celebration of community. Generations of volunteers, sponsors, local businesses, and community leaders have contributed to its success, helping transform a hometown festival into a destination event recognized throughout the Midwest and beyond.

As Marietta welcomes visitors for this milestone year, the 50th Ohio River Sternwheel Festival promises to honor its rich history while creating new memories for generations to come. With authentic sternwheel boats, unforgettable river cruises, live entertainment all weekend, the spectacular 50th Anniversary Sternwheel Fireworks Super Show, the inaugural Travel Showcase, expanded children’s activities, the Captain James E. Sands Memorial Boat Races, the Sunday Car Show, and family-friendly experiences throughout the weekend, there has never been a better time to experience this iconic celebration on the banks of the Ohio River.

For festival schedules, event information, entertainment lineups, and updates, visit Sternwheel.org.

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Take a Minute to See a Giant Bigfoot in Celina, Ohio. 

Hi, I’m The OhioTraveler, Your Tour Guide to Fun.

Deep in the heart of Celina, Ohio… something big is watching.

The biggest Bigfoot in Ohio!

The giant Sasquatch is a 30-foot-tall wooden sculpture.

Ten out of ten would not challenge him to a footrace
or a staring contest.

He sits at the Mercer County Fairgrounds.

You can’t miss him, because this Bigfoot isn’t hiding
— he’s posing!

He’s not camera-shy…
in fact, he might be Celina’s biggest influencer.

Signs-Signs Everywhere Signs at the

American Sign Museum

NOW PLAYING
at the OhioTraveler Drive-In

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Take a Minute to See
Wegerzyn Gardens

The Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark features a boardwalk through rivers and forests. In addition, there is a Reception Lawn amidst a wall of pine trees and a nature trail, allowing people to see diverse plant life and wildlife. Families will love the Children’s Discovery Garden.

in Western Ohio

Late Summer and Fall excursions in Ohio are some of the best of the year. As the summer season starts to wind down, now is the time to begin planning your next getaway.

Located just 35 miles north of Dayton on I-75 is the City of Sidney. In and around Sidney, you can take a factory tour at Airstream, one of the best in the US, and visit their Heritage Center, which displays the foremost collection of Airstream memorabilia found anywhere.  Later, how about an afternoon curated wine tasting at the Austeria Wine Boutique in downtown Sidney? In addition to more than 900 varieties of domestic and imported wines, Austeria offers an incredible variety of small plates and charcuterie to enjoy while you sip. Their outdoor patio is an ideal space for recharging and relaxing.

Downtown Sidney is always a popular destination with a variety of quaint shops, locally owned restaurants, and lively bars. The Moonflower Effect and Ivy Garland are great gift shops to pick up something special for a friend or yourself. Murphy’s Craftbar + Kitchen and The New Rainbow Bar & Grill are always good choices. Murphy’s features locally sourced ingredients in their varied menu of tasty dishes along with 48 taps of your favorite beers. The New Rainbow is best known for great sandwiches, cold drinks, and craft cocktails. The walls of this downtown bistro are adorned with rock and country music memorabilia that Dave Shadoan, the owner, has collected over the years. Their outdoor tiki bar offers live music and a fun island vibe.

Another local favorite is The Bridge Restaurant. The Bridge offers a selection of steaks, chops, and fresh seafood in a lovely setting. Guests can dine in or “Al Fresco” on their beautiful outdoor covered patio. For lighter fare and a unique menu of healthy choices, Greenhaus Coffee is the place to go for delicious coffee and fresh, tasty breakfast and lunch bites.

Through October, Downtown Sidney hosts one of the best farmers markets you’ll find anywhere. Favorite selections include fresh veggies, jams and jellies, locally grown herbs, flowers & mums, homemade doughnuts, and more. Another attractive seasonal option is the Fall Harvest Festival at Lake Loramie State Park. Arts & crafts galore, great food, live entertainment, and power equipment displays make this a fun outing for all who want to get out and enjoy the early Autumn season.

Golfers take note… Shelby Oaks, the Sidney Moose Golf Course and Arrowhead Golf Club are outstanding choices. Some of the best golf of the year is played in September and early October. The greens are fast and the fairways lush. Before putting your clubs away for the season, how about one last round in Sidney?

For Autumn color, Tawawa Park in Sidney and Lake Loramie State Park in Minster are prime viewing locations. Both offer picturesque bike/hike trails, birding, and an abundance of cool, fresh air to rejuvenate your soul. Mid-October is typically THE best time for optimal viewing.

No kayak, no problem. Lake Loramie State Park offers serve-yourself kiosks where you can rent a kayak, paddle, & life jacket to undertake your next aqua adventure. Their all-abilities boat launch makes it easy for everyone to get out onto the water.

For additional Autumn fun, Crossway Farms, Vandemark Farm & the Land Corn Maze are excellent choices. Crossway Farms offers Fall on the Farm, where guests can enjoy seasonal fruits, vegetables, donuts, flowers, and much more. For the kids, Fall on the Farm is a BLAST with an abundance of fun, free activities. Vandemark Farm features a Corn Maze, Hayrides, Mini Golf, and more. Both are great Fall Fun for the entire family.

When planning your visit, spending a little time on the Sidney Visitors Bureau website will provide a comprehensive overview of all area attractions, lodging options, and an events calendar chock-full of local happenings, including community theater, seasonal festivals, and more. In addition, visitors can build their own travel itinerary on the site where a list of nearly 40 regional attractions and points of interest is published, each offering unique, memorable experiences all within a short drive of Sidney.

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In Belmont County

As summer winds down and school bells inch closer, there’s still time to squeeze in one last getaway—and for travelers seeking wide-open spaces, fresh air, and a mix of adventure and relaxation, Belmont County offers the perfect escape. Tucked into the rolling hills of eastern Ohio, this Appalachian gem is home to some of the state’s most underrated outdoor recreation, from tranquil lakes to towering forests.

For those who thrive in nature or simply need a break from the everyday routine, Belmont County invites visitors to choose their own adventure—no reservations or elaborate itineraries required. Just pack a cooler, grab some sunscreen, and hit the road.

For water lovers, few places rival the scenic serenity of Piedmont Lake. Known for its crystal-clear waters and record-breaking muskellunge fishing, Piedmont offers opportunities for both high-energy fun and quiet reflection. Families can spend the day cruising in a pontoon boat, casting lines from a fishing kayak, or swimming along the tree-lined shoreline.

The full-service marina makes it easy for spontaneous travelers to rent canoes, kayaks, and boats of all sizes—no gear required. Whether reeling in catfish or enjoying a sunset picnic on deck, Piedmont Lake captures the simple pleasures of summer.

Families with young explorers will find endless ways to connect with nature at Barkcamp State Park. Nestled in the Appalachian Plateau, this beloved park offers everything from rugged hiking trails to storybook paths designed just for kids. Visitors can paddleboard across the calm lake, fish for bluegill and trout, or simply relax at a shaded campsite or cozy cabin. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to spend a full weekend at Barkcamp and still feel like there’s more to discover.

Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Mail Pouch Barn inside Barkcamp—one of the featured stops on the America 250-Ohio Creativity Trail. Artist Harley Warrick, a Belmont County native, became an iconic figure in American folk art through his hand-painted Mail Pouch Tobacco barns. Over his 55-year career, Warrick painted or retouched more than 20,000 barns across 13 states, turning rural structures into treasured roadside Americana with the famous “Chew Mail Pouch Tobacco” slogan.

For those traveling with both thrill-seekers and laid-back loungers, Zion Retreat & RV Park in Flushing offers the best of both worlds. This hidden gem blends rustic charm with a splash of excitement. Adventurous guests can try the aqua zipline or bounce across the water trampoline, while others opt for fishing, soaking in a hot tub on the cabin deck, or simply enjoying a nap with a view. It’s an ideal spot for couples, families, or groups of friends looking to make the most of the season.

Those in search of solitude will find it in the serene beauty of Dysart Woods. This protected forest features trails winding through rare old-growth white oak, beech, and tulip trees—some over 300 years old. Each season brings new colors to the landscape, from wildflowers in spring to golden leaves in fall. Whether birdwatching, photographing nature, or simply enjoying a quiet hike, Dysart Woods offers a deep sense of peace and connection to the land.

What makes Belmont County especially appealing for a late-summer getaway is its accessibility and variety. Located along I-70 and the historic National Road, it’s a short drive from Pittsburgh, Columbus, or Wheeling—yet it feels worlds away. There’s no need to overplan or overspend; here, nature sets the itinerary.

Travelers can round out their visit with strolls through charming small towns, stops at local eateries and antique shops, or a visit to one of the area’s historic landmarks. And when the day winds down, there’s nothing like a quiet campfire or lakeside sunset to close out the summer season on a high note.

Summer might be slipping away, but the opportunity to explore Belmont County is wide open. Whether seeking one more family memory, a romantic weekend, or a chance to breathe deeply and reset, Belmont County has the space, scenery, and soul to make it happen.

So don’t wait—there’s still time to pack a bag, unplug, and answer the call of the great outdoors. Belmont County is ready when you are.

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in Ohio Amish Country

There is no better way to celebrate the last days of summer than with a trip to Ohio Amish Country.  Nestled in the Appalachian foothills, Ohio Amish Country provides visitors with breathtaking vistas and a retreat into a simpler pace.  Roads curve through fields that stretch beyond sight, where you’ll discover exciting new destinations, one-of-a-kind experiences, and renowned cultural attractions.

Immerse yourself in the Amish culture with a visit to Behalt, the Amish Mennonite Heritage Center, located in Berlin, Ohio, where you can learn about Amish heritage and explore an onsite barn and Amish schoolhouse.  Every journey to the area is an invitation to experience the unique culture and enjoy a world where life slows down and the rhythm of the day is marked by the sounds of the clip-clop of horse and buggies.

Enjoy field-to-table fresh produce and goods, a staple of the area, from u-pick adventures at Moreland Fruit Farm to locally grown produce at Harvey’s Farm Market to the 75 rolling acres at Hillcrest Orchard boasting 22 apple varieties, 12 peach varieties, fresh sweet apple cider, and a million-dollar view of the Mud Valley. Bring along a cooler, as Ohio Amish Country is home to some of the best cheese houses and butcher shops that will keep you well stocked into the fall season.

A visit to Ohio Amish Country provides a unique opportunity to meet the makers.  Stop in at Coblentz Leather, a third-generation family-owned business, to experience the beauty and talent of American-made leather craftsmanship.  A peek through the workshop viewing window provides a glimpse of the leather artistry that goes into each handbag, wallet, purse, and custom-made belt.  Nearby, you will find David Warther Carvings & Gift Shop, where you can experience a fascinating exhibit of intricate carvings and meet David Warther, the carver, as he works daily in his on-site workshop.  Don’t miss the opportunity to travel the National Scenic Amish Country Byway to Holmes County Pottery in Big Prairie, Ohio.  The drive will take you through the beautiful rolling hills of Ohio Amish Country, dotted with Amish homes and roadside stands, providing a truly authentic experience.  Cary Hulin, owner and Potter, can be found most days working on-site where he mixes his own clay and uses a wood-fired kiln, which is an extremely rare form of firing in the modern age.

Ohio Amish Country is not meant to be a rushed destination.  Sip, savor, and stay awhile. Home to several wineries, you can sip local vintages and enjoy a hearty Amish-inspired meal, then cozy up around a campfire.  There are endless options for lodging from scenic campsites to cabins and cottages, charming bed and breakfast inns, and full amenity hotels where modern comfort meets countryside tranquility.

Give yourself plenty of time to explore and don’t be afraid to travel the backroads.  The area offers 190 miles of National Scenic Byway, providing the perfect excuse to discover the most authentic experiences along the road less traveled.

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A Journey Aboard the USS Cod
By Andrew Lindner, Intern, OhioTraveler.com

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While visiting the U.S.S. Cod, not only was the historical prevalence important to me, but so was the effect the vessel had on my senses and the feelings that stemmed from those. Being docked in Cleveland, Ohio, this submarine offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover its history in an inviting way. Not only were the people working at the sub friendly and enthusiastic, but they were undoubtedly knowledgeable in the history of such a hidden Ohio gem.

When I first approached the Cod, I was overwhelmed by the mere size of the vessel and its impressive exterior structure. Being docked right in the waters of Lake Erie, I was immediately hit by the smell of the freshwater air. This aromatic smell, combined with the state of awe I was in, solidified a moment I will never forget. However, this wasn’t the only time the beauty of the sub took me back. Being the only World War II submarine left in its original condition without modern walkways, the Cod required me to climb aboard just as the original crew once did. This is when I smelled the metallic scent of the cool metal walls. Being completely inside the submarine, this particular smell wasn’t invasive or overwhelming, but more of a subtle scent of crisp seawater and steel. After a short time of adjusting to the smell, my next sense was triggered.

While exploring the front section of the Cod, I was pleasantly surprised to hear what I consider old-timey music playing throughout the room. This music made me feel as if I were a part of the crew working way back then. This wasn’t the only audio provided, though. Each section of the sub featured a compelling narration that explained the purpose of the room and its historical significance. This, along with the music, gave me a deeper insight into the sub and what it meant to work such a ship.

Because the submarine is kept unaltered, it doesn’t have any glass walls or fake walkways. This allowed me the chance to feel and discover every small bit of the Cod. When moving from room to room, I had to duck through narrow passageways, using only my hands for leverage. Although many people would overlook this aspect of touring the sub, I did not. Feeling the cool metal under my fingers as I hoisted myself through the opening made me feel like I was stepping into the daily life of a Cod crew member. I wasn’t only able to touch the walls, though, but also the furniture and any display pieces placed throughout the tour. Being able to sit in the kitchen dining booths, feel the beds they slept in, and even be right up close to the torpedo chambers elevated this tour above many others I have been on. The aspect of being able to feel the raw material of the sub is unlike any experience I’ve had, and I will never forget it.

The use of each of these senses contributed to how I viewed the U.S.S. Cod. While walking through the sub, I didn’t expect to see so many unique and diverse parts of the vessel. From rustic kitchens to dim, red-lit control rooms, no two parts were alike. This change in scenery aided in keeping my interest and showed what it was truly like to be aboard a World War II submarine. My eyes were drawn to every part of the craft. Reading every small vintage label, I never felt unsure of what each thing was. Being able to see everything up close made the historic legacy of the Cod a real and tangible experience.

For me, going on museum tours has always seemed uninteresting. Most of the time, I’m being shuttled from one room to the next with brief descriptions, all in an effort to move as many people in and out as possible. This, however, was not like the U.S.S. Cod. When touring it, I had free rein over which section of the Cod I wanted to visit and how long I wanted to explore each section. But this was all elevated when I walked off the Cod and was introduced to a cheerful worker who was beyond knowledgeable about the vessel.

Hearing and reading history are vastly different from living it, and when you have someone who has experienced it or something similar, the stories become all the more real. Listening to the worker describe and share moments from his past made me appreciate how my life compares to his. Not only did many men never return from underwater battles, but the living conditions and safety measures were far from what they are today. The U.S.S. Cod is credited with sinking more than a dozen enemy ships during its seven combat patrols in the Pacific, earning seven battle stars. When listening, I made a point to thank the worker for his contributions to this country and how his part made a big difference.

Touring the U.S.S. Cod Submarine was an experience that will never go unremembered. From its historical importance to its ability to spark my senses in unique ways, The Cod is unlike any museum I’ve visited. I highly recommend this experience to anyone seeking an immersive adventure and a memorable experience.

Here’s a video I narrated and produced of my tour of the Cod.

Plan your experience aboard the Cod.

By Andrew Lindner, OhioTraveler.com Intern, and Strategic Communications major at The Ohio State University. 

In September 2023, a collection of eight unique Native American sites in various locations in the State of Ohio were inscribed as World Heritage Sites. These sites include Fort Ancient in Oregonia, OH, two sites at the Newark Earthworks in Newark, OH, and five sites that are part of Hopewell Culture National Historical Park in Chillicothe, OH. Collectively, these five sites are known as the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks. None of the above sites are in Scioto County, but there are Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks and a rich Native American narrative that Portsmouth and Scioto County preserves.

Scioto County has been a prime location for human settlement since the end of the last Ice Age.  The Scioto and Ohio River Conflux provide a bounty of wild game, as well as edible plants, nuts, and berries.  These resources attracted Paleo-Indian Culture hunter/gatherers for thousands of years. The prehistoric Indigenous presence in Scioto County remains today in the form of monumental landscape architecture and artifacts left behind hundreds and even thousands of years in the past. Scioto County is home to what was once the largest prehistoric earthen mound complex in the entire world:  The Portsmouth Earthworks!  The majority of the complex is thought to have been created by the Hopewell Culture around 2,000 years ago.  The Portsmouth Earthworks were the largest of all Hopewell Culture constructions.

The footprint of the Portsmouth Earthworks covered over 25 square miles or over 50,000 acres!  These mounds occupied the cities and hilltop ridges of Portsmouth, West Portsmouth, Lucasville, Sciotoville, and Wheelersburg in Ohio, as well as South Portsmouth and South Shore in Kentucky. The center of the complex was the Twin Horseshoe Mounds Enclosure at Mound Park in Portsmouth.  Four sets of Parallel Earthen Embankments formed paths of the procession leading in the intermediate directions to the satellite elements of the complex.  The purpose of this massive construction is thought to have been ceremonial.

Though there are several burial mounds included in the Portsmouth Earthworks, many of the mounds were used for different purposes.  For example, no burials have ever been discovered at Mound Park.  There were never any burials reported to be associated with any of the four sets of Parallel Embankments. While some of the mounds served a mortuary purpose, it is thought that additional ceremonies were performed at some Portsmouth Earthworks sites.  Astronomical, directional, and seasonal alignments documented in the Portsmouth Earthworks suggest that some components may have functioned as a type of calendar.

A small number of Portsmouth Earthworks sites still exist today. Mound Park in Portsmouth features the East Twin Horseshoe Mound, the Mound Park Conical Mound, and the so-called Natural Elevation, which is also an earthwork.  Mound Park is open to the public with a playground, a paved pathway, and newly constructed pickleball courts built near the earthworks. Another Hopewell Earthwork, Tremper Mound, is in West Portsmouth and is still present in the modern landscape. This mound is famous for the discovery of around 60 Hopewell Culture effigy pipes carved in the images of local wildlife. Tremper Mound is now part of a nature preserve under the stewardship of the Arc of Appalachia, an Ohio archaeological and ecological conservancy.  The Arc of Appalachia has plans to open the Tremper Mound Nature Preserve to the public in September 2024.

The presence of Indigenous Cultures persisted in the area through the time when European explorers first contacted the people of the New World.  In the 18th century, the Shawnee Nation operated a popular trading post at Lower Shawnee Town in both Ohio and Kentucky.  The Shawnee are thought to have arrived in the area in the 1730s. Lower Shawnee Town was located in West Portsmouth, Ohio, in and around what is now Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park.  Repeated flooding drove the village to the opposite bank of the Ohio River in Kentucky in 1756.  By the time the Declaration of Independence was written in 1776, all the Shawnee were driven out of Lower Shawnee Town.

By the early 1800s, the Shawnee were removed from Ohio.  The last Native American tribe living in Ohio, the Wyandot, signed a treaty declaring their move to Oklahoma in 1842.  The Shawnee Nation is now three federally recognized tribes living on reservations in Oklahoma:  The Absentee-Shawnee Tribe, The Eastern Shawnee Tribe, and The Shawnee Tribe.

Visitors to Portsmouth-Scioto County can learn and explore these indigenous cultures further. The Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center houses a collection of over 10,000 prehistoric Native American artifacts, many discovered in and around the Portsmouth Earthworks.  This collection is displayed in the museum’s “Art of The Ancients” permanent exhibition.

Andrew Feight, Ph.D., Professor of History and Director of The Center of Public History at Shawnee State University, has created a tour of the Portsmouth Earthworks sites remaining in Ohio called the part of the Scioto Historical Portsmouth Earthworks Complex Tour. This tour is hosted on the Scioto Historical website and smartphone app and includes a virtual rendering of the Portsmouth Earthworks, as they are thought to have existed around 2,000 years ago.  Herb Roe, a visual artist and graduate of Portsmouth High School, created the virtual images of the Portsmouth Earthworks based on historic documentation and professional input. The scope of the Portsmouth Earthworks is so large that it is best witnessed from the air.  Herb Roe’s Virtual Flyover of the Portsmouth Earthworks Complex may be viewed on the Scioto Historical app or YouTube.

Evidence from Scioto County attests to the monumental and sophisticated prehistoric civilizations that once thrived in the region.  Scioto County remains a land of abundance, attracting modern-day visitors and residents for many of the same reasons prehistoric people chose to make this place their home. Visit the Portsmouth-Scioto County Visitors Bureau’s website for more information about visiting these sites and other attractions in the area.

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The WACO Air Museum to Celebrate
100 years of WACO in Troy, Ohio

Excerpt from the August 2023 Edition of OhioTraveler

In 1923, WACO Aircraft moved to Troy from Medina, OH. This was the Golden Age of Aviation. After moving to Troy, WACO became the number one civil aircraft manufacturer in the United States and remained in that first-place spot until shortly before World War II began.

During WWII, WACO employed 3,000 people and was the largest employer in a five-county area. Often entire families worked for WACO.  WACO was and continues to be very important to this area.  Today, WACO offers adventure as one of the few places someone can fly in an open cock-pit biplane and has an educational facility with available summer camps, aviation and S.T.E.A.M. education, and extracurricular learning opportunities.  The museum features the company’s history, artifacts, and WACO airplanes.

We invite you to celebrate this important anniversary during WACO’s annual fly-in.  The weekend’s highlight will be the WACO aircraft gathered at WACO Field.  The Troy factory built 100 UPF-7 models in 99 days as trainers for WW2. That was the only time in history that 100 WACOs were gathered in the same place at the same time. It seems only fitting to have the largest gathering of WACOs since that day, with a goal of 100, right back here in Troy… the birthplace of these beautiful biplanes.  WACOs will start arriving at the airfield Wednesday evening and throughout the remainder of the week.

The public events will kick off at WACO Field Friday at 9am, with a ribbon cutting ceremony at 3pm, before an evening car show featuring pre-war vehicles.  Live music will highlight local Jerry Mullins (4-6pm), Seth Canan and The Carriers (6-8pm), and Rusted Reserve (8-10pm). No event is complete without great food and drinks, so there will be a variety of food trucks and beer trailers to choose from.  The fun continues Saturday with the addition of kids’ activities, a local self-guided driving tour of historic WACO sites around Troy, and a chance for up-close viewing of these antique aircraft.  Talk to the pilots, learn about notable WACO founders, and test pilots with reenactors dressed in period clothing. Hear the roar of the radial engines as you view an in-air parade of planes from the flight line as these magnificent men and their flying machines pass by the runway. Top off your Saturday with an enjoyable catered meal and dance the night away as the seventeen-piece Tom Daugherty Orchestra recreate Glenn Miller’s Army Air Force Band, complete with the Andrew’s Sisters, all in full World War II uniforms! (Dance and dinner require additional tickets that can be purchased by calling the museum at 937-335-9226.)

For those at the field early Sunday morning, be a part of the Farewell to the WACOs. But this isn’t the end of the celebration. Sunday will feature flyovers, including the B25, the Grimes Flying Lab, an antique motorcycle show, and more! The radio-controlled group known as The Barnstormers, who make their home at WACO field, will be moving their popular RC air show and candy drop, a kid favorite, to the Sunday schedule. Children’s activities and food trucks will continue to be present. And, of course, bi-plane rides tickets will be available for purchase all weekend.

Sponsors and partners, including Chevrolet of Troy, the City of Troy, Hartzell Propeller, Jauqua’s Tent & Event, Miami County Visitors Bureau, National Aviation Heritage Area, The Troy Foundation, Tourism Ohio, and Wells Electric! There is still time to participate as a sponsor or volunteer for the event.  For more information, we invite you to contact the museum and watch for updated details on all these events and more at www.wacoairmuseum.org. For additional things to do in the area during your stay, visit www.homegrowngreat.com.

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Quench your thirst for adventure with this itinerary for fun in Tuscarawas County, located in the heart of Appalachia and Ohio’s Amish Country!

The weekend is calling and asking for a new adventure, including sunrise over the Appalachian Mountains’ foothills in beautiful Tuscarawas County, Ohio. Afterward, plan to enjoy a hike on one of many trails and then the serenity of a drive through Swiss and Amish cultural areas before delving into all the area offers. It sounds relaxing, doesn’t it? This three-day itinerary highlights a wide range of experiences, from historic landmarks to dining, theatre, and hiking. It’s time to pack your suitcase and dive into the weekend!

Day 1: Trains, a BIG clock, scenic sights, and wine and brew tastings!

Start your day at the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum to experience the world’s largest privately owned collection of steam engines housed in the first working roundhouse constructed in many generations. Located in Amish country, enjoy the sights and watch out for buggies!

Downtown Sugarcreek is home to the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock and the first to be included in the Guinness Book of World Records! Be certain to time (ha-ha) your visit to be there for the top or bottom of the hour to watch the Hilltoppers’ performance just for you! Enjoy visiting some local shops while you are here and seeing the Brick Wall Sculpture!

Visit the Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens next to experience the phenomenal talents of carver Mooney Warther. His passion for steam engines drove him to create exact replicas of these mighty trains.

Just a short drive southeast is the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, a National Historic Landmark. Located in an original train depot, it has a storied history as volunteers fed 1.3 million troops on trains during WWII while its engine was refilled with water.

Slow down at one of the county’s ten wineries or four breweries; each offers a distinctive flavor and flair.

With many lodging options, you will be certain to find the perfect clean, comfortable pillow in one of our numerous hotels!

Day 2: Ohio history, a millionaire, dinner, and an outdoor theatre production!

Begin with a tour of Schoenbrunn Village, where you will step inside the reconstructed first church and school buildings on the 1770s Ohio frontier and learn about life in the village at that time.

Historic Zoar Village is a National Landmark District and your next stop. Founded in 1817 by German Separatists seeking religious freedom, you will appreciate learning about their successful communal society spanning 80 years which gave suffrage to women first- decades before the rest of the nation as you walk upon brick sidewalks, tour original buildings and stroll through the large mediation garden.

J E Reeves is the first Tuscarawas County millionaire to earn his fortune in metal manufacturing. His home, the J. E. Reeves Victorian Home and Carriage House Museum showcases original furnishing and local history.

Ready for dinner? Local restaurants temp the palate with offerings from smoked meats, authentic Thai, Italian, Chinese, Amish style, and farm-to-table American cuisine, you will love eating at one of our favorite restaurant tables!

Cap off the day with a performance of “Trumpet in the Land,” Ohio’s first and finest outdoor theatre production, which brings to life the tragic yet inspiring story of David Zeisberger and his Christian Indian followers as they struggled to preserve their peaceful settlement despite the growing violence of the Revolutionary War. The production is set in the hills once traveled by those portrayed in the show. Watch the warm summer nights come alive with beautiful horses, brilliant fire dances, authentic-looking costumes, fiery battle pyrotechnic, and a lush natural setting. 

Day 3: Coffee, Canals, Lunch & More

Start your day like a local and visit one of the many local coffee shops or cafes for your favorite caffeine jolt. Choose from local donuts, classic dinners, Amish-style or traditional – you will enjoy your time savoring your relaxing morning!

Enjoy the great outdoors by hiking the Ohio and Erie Canalway Towpath. Begin your hike at the Fort Laurens trailhead in Bolivar, where you will find plenty of parking and restrooms. Hike south to explore the remains of several hand-constructed locks- remnants from the days 200 years ago when boats traversed the canal.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the area restaurants, Sublime Smoke or Canal Street Diner, each featuring local food and quality service!

Your drive home after lunch will be filled with chatter about your favorite sights and discoveries here in Tuscarawas County and happy memories!

For more information, please contact the Tuscarawas County Welcome Center at 800-527-3387 or www.traveltusc.com.

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Holmes County Ohio, otherwise known as the heart of Amish country, is known for its unique residents who live there and for the beautiful country landscapes. It’s the perfect place for a getaway weekend to just relax and explore. Amish country offers several different types of activities for its guests to take part in. One of the main focuses of the area is shopping.

Recently, I visited Berlin, one of the main focuses in the county, and found several places that are must-visit spots! As a recently graduated college student, I’m kind of broke, and I know I’m not the only one out there. My taste in style is also one that leans towards the unique things that not everyone may have. This is perfect considering this area is known for all the antique shopping spots. I wanted to use my day in Berlin to find the places that are great to visit but won’t necessarily break the bank.

The first spot I visited was Studio 4 Designs.

This shop is a bit hidden since it’s not right along the main street in town but it’s worth the visit! They have so many unique items and lots of vintage pieces. Kathy, the owner, even sews pillows, makes her own macrame pieces and her husband creates their furniture pieces. It’s the perfect place if you’re interested in cottage core or vintage vibes for your decorating! I’m always a sucker for cool statement pieces in my decorating and Studio 4 has them! From old typewriters to cameras, an older radio, and even vintage photographs they have such fun items! I would absolutely love to have one of these displayed in my home. (I would especially die for that black typewriter). There were lots of unique bottles and decorative art pieces to just add to a fun whimsical feel.

Their furniture pieces were also ones that I wish I had in my home. Several pieces would most definitely add character to any room! My personal favorite pieces were all the plant hangers that Kathy made and the green locker side table. Towards the back of the store is a room that I wish I could take and just have it in my own house. Imagine sitting at the desk to sew, write, paint, or just create some kind of art. It’s the perfect artist space and goals for the ultimate craft room.

Overall, I would highly suggest visiting here! After speaking with Kathy, who is very kind by the way, I’m excited to see new pieces that they’ll bring in and all of the one-of-a-kind items you can score for your own home.

My second stop was Kaufman’s Kountry Accents. The second you walk into this store; you’re cascaded in the delightful smell of butterscotch and a warm atmosphere. This store is just filled with rustic farmhouse decorations. If you’re interested in decorating with greenery and fun ways to display them then this store is great for you! I love having greenery in my decorating and love the pieces that they put together.

Who doesn’t want a snack in the midst of all your shopping? A super fun spot to visit would be MainStreet Fudge & Popcorn Co! In the mood for ice cream, cream sodas, taffy, popcorn, or fudge? This is the place for you! It’s such a fun little shop with so many different things to try. They have so many options for whatever mood you’re in! Even if you don’t get something in the store, it’s worth taking home some fudge or taffy as a souvenir. Plus, you can snack on them as you continue to shop around town!

Or if you’re more interested in a meal, there’s a coffee shop just down the road, Ginger House Coffee. Their wild berry smoothies are my favorite and I absolutely love their cranberry pecan salad. After getting my snacks, I continued to walk down the street to the Berlin Village Gift Barn where I was greeted with a Holmes County version of IKEA! If you walk all the way through the store to the bottom floor, you can then walk across the parking lot over to their garden section!

The Country Gatherings gardens have so many things to make your gardens fun and whimsical! You can get new plants there, decorations, pots, supplies, and even things to put together your own fairy garden. The best part is exploring through their plant selection and picking out something new and exciting to add to your own garden. Personally, I was thrilled to look through the succulents that they have!

One of my favorite spots to shop at ended up being the Berlin Antique Mall and Berlin Craft Mall. Both malls are located across from Hiland High School. They’re huge and filled with all sorts of fun finds! You get to look at furniture, decor, books, clothing, pottery, and more. It’s super fun to walk around and explore. Plus, you’ll never know what you find! I really like looking through glassware to search for quirky-shaped bottles!

Overall, Berlin is filled with all sorts of fun finds! I’m eager to go revisit some of these places in the future to see what new things they have or things that I may have missed.

Other places I’d love to visit sometimes include a candle shop, a Native American jewelry store, and a store that has a sign out front that says, “The Original Fairy Store”! They’ve all piqued my interest and I’d love to spend another day out-and-about in Berlin.

Plan your visit at https://www.visitamishcountry.com/.

By Shannon Carter

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With Four Generations of Dagers
and their Velvet Ice Cream

There’s just something warm and inviting about a family business that has grown to become a household name across the Midwest in four generations when the president of the company (great-granddaughter of the founder) is smiling and talking to visitors over the lunch counter.

Ye Olde Mill, the headquarters of Velvet Ice Cream in Utica, Ohio is a charming place to visit. The drive through the rolling hills and green space is therapeutic. And just when the airiness of the landscape draws deep inhale and slow exhale, the manufacturing complex of the company comes into sight. After rounding the bend, the modern facility fades into a 200-year-old postcard view of the historic mill and its mesmerizing water wheel. Visitors meander the park-like grounds which have ponds, pavilions, and grills. A sign reads “Catch and Release Allowed.”

From May to October, the doors of the historic mill are open. Inside is a lunch menu and oh so many choices of ice cream it may take a while to decide what to get. The rustic setting is just the beginning of the photo ops. An adjacent ice cream museum walks folks through the history of ice cream and the Dager family history of Velvet Ice Cream. Outside is a patio with a grand view of the waterwheel in motion. A welcome center also helps shape the story about this enchanted place and gathers people who want to take the tour of the manufacturing process to see just how ice cream is made (call to see when the tours resume). Although there are also hiking trails, the most beaten path is around the main pond that reflects the old mill in its pool of water. It is no wonder so many people get married here or host family reunions.

Velvet Ice Cream is an All-American family story that began at Ellis Island, New York in 1903. That’s when an unaccompanied 15-year-old immigrant from Lebanon, Joseph Dager, stepped off a boat to pursue his American dream. About a decade later, he produced his first ice cream in Utica, Ohio. That hand-churned batch was rich and creamy – smooth as velvet – so he called it Velvet Ice Cream.

During the Great Depression, Joseph’s sons Edward and Charles Dager took the growing business to the next level. They built a manufacturing plant to keep up with the demand from area restaurants and grocery stores.

In the 1950s, after Edward and Charles passed away, the third generation of Dagers – Joe and Mike – was put in leadership roles while still in high school and college. Over the next 30 years, they not only continued the expansion of distribution for their grandfather’s Velvet Ice Cream, but they also made their picturesque place in rural Central Ohio a tourist destination.

An 1817 grist mill with its iconic waterwheel became what is today called Ye Olde Mill, home of Velvet Ice Cream. Its restoration in the 1960s came complete with a turn of the century ice cream parlor. The mill used to be a gathering place for community events. The only thing that has changed since is the size of the gatherings. In the coming years, the restaurant, ice cream parlor, museum, and tours of the mill and manufacturing process would grow to attract more than 150,000 visitors per year. Today, more than five million gallons of Velvet Ice Cream’s 60+ flavors are produced annually.

Two of Joe Dager’s daughters, Luconda and Joanne, head up the company today. Although they oversee a big business in a very competitive industry, they haven’t forgotten the personal touch that their great grandfather instilled in the Velvet Ice Cream culture and family over 100 years ago.

By Frank Rocco Satullo, The OhioTraveler, Your Tour Guide to Fun!

Inside is a piece of the moon
and a dream come true at the
Armstrong Air & Space Museum

By Frank Rocco Satullo, The OhioTraveler

An imposing and peculiar looking dome is embedded in a western Ohio hillside. Passersby let their imaginations fly as they rocket along the freeway. Is it a secret military base or a nuclear weapon silo?

The answer is that it’s an interactive museum built in the mold of a futuristic moon base. The inside depicts perhaps the greatest dream come true – how a man came to walk on the moon! …Click here to read more.

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Small Town Museum Hails Worldly Artifacts

By Frank Rocco Satullo, The OhioTraveler

Two brothers traveled the globe to amass an eclectic collection of artifacts – some creating controversy and others considered to be the best of their kind – only to donate it to their childhood town of Coshocton, Ohio.

From the unusual Rothenstein Cache to the much-debated Newark Holy Stones, the Johnson-Humrickhouse Museum (JHM) attracts attention from professional archaeologists to busloads of travelers. These visitors are curious about the rare relics and infamous hoaxes that are one and all, human history. The two-story brick museum with its large pillars is nestled in the Historic Roscoe Village, a restored Ohio & Erie Canal town. JHM also has an important connection to the nearby Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, which have been nominated to be added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. This prestigious recognition would put these earthworks alongside the Pyramids of Giza, the Great Wall of China, and Stonehenge.

The journey began when the four Johnson brothers from one Coshocton family married the four Humrickhouse sisters from across town. …Click here to read more.

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Excerpt from a past edition of OhioTraveler

This Roaring 1920s Main Street is part of the Walk Through Time experience at Sauder Village.  This one-of-a-kind project replicates a portion of 1920s Main Street typical to Northwest Ohio. At this permanent addition to Sauder Village, guests can see how people worked and spent their hard-earned leisure time during the 1920s. Shops opening on the west side of Main Street include Fire Station #1, Wiederkehr Clothing, Hub Grocery Store, and theater. Guests will also enjoy exploring the new soda fountain/pharmacy, Main Street Confections, and The Broken Barrel Speakeasy (open for special events/experiences only). 

“Families visiting our 1920s Main Street can stop in for a Charleston Chew at the candy shop, enjoy a chocolate malt or milkshake at the soda fountain, get a sneak peek of a picture show at the theater and check out a vintage fire truck and antique automobiles,” Debbie added. “Sauder Village offers families a place to laugh, learn, and connect while making history of their very own!” 

In addition to the new buildings on the west side of Main Street, families will also enjoy experiencing the 1920s at shops along the Main Street’s east side including the depot, Okuley Barbershop, Stotzer Hardware Store, Farmers & Merchants State Bank and many others!

While at Sauder Village, guests will also enjoy a free train ride, meeting farm animals, and taking a “Walk Through Time” to experience life in Ohio from 1803 through the 1920s! There are also many beautiful gardens, craft shops, and unique shopping opportunities throughout the Village. 

A trip to Sauder Village would not be complete without delicious, home-style food from the Barn Restaurant and Doughbox Bakery. For those looking to extend their stay, the 98-room Heritage Inn has a spacious country inn atmosphere with many places for guests to relax and spend time together. The 87-site Sauder Village Campground is a great spot to enjoy fishing, sharing stories around the campfire, riding bikes around Little Lake Erie, or playing in the Splash Pad.  

Sauder Village is located at 22611 State Route 2 in Archbold – just minutes from Exit 25 of the Ohio Turnpike. The Historic Village is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.  The Village is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays this season. Admission is $20.00 for adults, $14.00 for students (6-16), and free for members and children 5 and under. 

Make history of your very own this summer with a trip to Sauder Village to experience the new 1920s Main Street! Hours of operation, safety practices, and answers to frequently asked questions are available on the Sauder Village website. For details about planning a memorable Sauder Village getaway call 800.590.9755, visit the Sauder Village website at www.saudervillage.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram.

The best hunting in Ohio is often found in Coshocton County, which is a huge hunting hub in the state. As a state leader in deer harvests each year (for over 10 years!), hunters from across the Midwest flock to Coshocton to be the first ones on the ground at the start of each season.

The most popular public hunting ground is Woodbury Wildlife Area, located about 10 miles west of the City of Coshocton, on OH-541. Access to the area is available on a number of state routes including OH-16, OH-36, and OH-60, as well. Woodbury is the largest public area in the state. At 19,050 acres, this area offers space for hunters, birders, fishermen, hikers, and all outdoor lovers!

Speaking of space, there are endless lodging options within the county for every kind of traveler! From cabins and campgrounds to hotels, motels, and bed-and-breakfasts, you’ll undoubtedly find your favorite. The Cabin at Woodbury is conveniently located just outside of the Woodbury Wildlife Area, and includes all the amenities needed for a private, comfortable stay. On the flip side, the Roscoe Hillside Cabins are just outside of Roscoe Village, within walking distance of shopping, dining, and historic attractions, for a fun-filled visit! Roscoe Village is a restored canal-era town, perfect for the whole family to enjoy! Coshocton Village Inn & Suites is just a half-mile over the new bridge from Roscoe Village and is one of the premier hotels in the area, as well.

For more information on outdoor recreation and lodging in Coshocton County, visit their website at www.visitcoshocton.com.

Also, Read
READY. AIM. COSHOCTON

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This article is from a past edition of OhioTraveler.com

 The Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau would like to announce the release of their new audio walking tours. Tours are available through iTourMobile, which is the company the bureau contracted with to host and distribute the tours through their mobile application. The iTourMobile app and Ross County audio walking tours are all free to download on your Apple and Android devices.

This initial launch features three audio tours of Ross County and Chillicothe which includes an overview of Ross County’s attractions, Architecture & History, and History & Mystery tours. For visitors, the overview allows them to hear about some of the great sites such as Adena Mansion & Gardens, Tecumseh Outdoor Drama, Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, Ross County Heritage Center, Bainbridge Historical Society, and many more.

Additionally, there are two audio walking tours that will display some of the historic buildings in downtown Chillicothe. The Architecture & History Tour will take you along the streets of downtown to learn some unique facts about the Ross County Courthouse, Carlisle, Canal Warehouse, Majestic Theatre, the Chillicothe Gazette and several more locations. The bureau would like to thank Kevin Coleman of Intrepid Heritage Services for providing the architecture and history content featured within this tour.

For those who enjoy history & mystery, the third tour provides listeners a walking tour that provides details of buildings’ history but also stories of the paranormal. These locations have been featured on the Ghost Walk over the years, and have plenty of mystery surrounding their existence. Some of the locations you’ll visit and hear about include the Majestic Theatre, Crosskeys Tavern, the Oddfellows

Lodge above Bernie & Max Stained Glass Studio and nine additional locations. The bureau would like to thank the League of Women Voters for sharing their stories from the Ghost Walk to be featured within this tour.

The audio walking tours were created by the bureau to provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about our local history and historic sites outside of the traditional museum hours. As with many destinations, this also allows the Ross Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau to utilize technology to provide convenient, on-demand tour options for visitors in our area.

For more information about these audio tours, or for additional printable walking tour options, visit the bureau’s website at VisitChillicotheOhio.com.