Ohio Summer Festivals & Events
And other things to do
& places to go in Ohio…
New trail depicting the
first African American Professional Football Player
Charles W. Follis
the “Black Cyclone from Wooster”
The Wayne County Convention & Visitors Bureau is pleased to announce the opening of The Charles Follis Trail, named for local hero and First African American Professional Football Player, Charles Follis (1879-1910). The trail highlights important locations and milestones in Follis’s life including his boyhood home, church, family burial plot, and the Wooster High School Football Field that bears his name and where Follis earned the name the “Black Cyclone.” The Follis Family moved to Wooster from Cloverdale, Virginia when Charles was a young boy. He began his career as captain of the first Wooster High School Football team where he also starred in baseball and track. He went on to play baseball for Wooster University, later the College of Wooster. In 1902 the six-foot, 200-pound Follis signed with the Shelby Blues Football Club making $10.00 per game; that contract made him the first African Pro Football Player. On April 5, 1920, at the age of 31, Follis died from pneumonia. He is buried along with many of his family members at Wooster Cemetery. More information can be found at blackcyclone.org including information on the up-and-coming movie about his life and a map of the newly created trail.
Ohio Caverns was discovered in August of 1897. This August celebrates 125 years since the discovery.
Ohio Caverns has no natural opening and was unknown until 1897. In August of that year, a seventeen-year-old farmhand named Robert Noffsinger became curious about a small sinkhole. A sinkhole is an area where water erosion causes a depression in the ground. Noffsinger noticed that this area was often filled with water after heavy rains, but the water quickly drained into the ground. Curious to find out where the water was going, he began to dig. Several feet down, he encountered the limestone bedrock and noticed a small crevice. He worked his way into the crevice and became the first human being to set foot in Ohio Caverns.
Upon being notified of this discovery, the landowner decided to make some extra money by charging admission into the underground passages. Local farmers helped widen the crevice, and a building was constructed over the opening of what became known as Mt. Tabor Cave. These original “tours” were self-guided. For a small fee, visitors could rent lanterns from the landowner and were given only one restriction – they had to be out by nightfall. At the end of the day, the landowner counted his lanterns. If any were missing, he knew someone was still in the cavern, possibly lost or with a broken lantern. Someone would then go into the cavern to help the missing visitors find their way out.
Like all limestone caverns, Ohio Caverns was created by water. When the water receded to lower levels, it deposited sediment in the passageways. In some areas, the mud was only a few inches deep. In other areas, it was several feet deep. Visitors to Mt. Tabor Cave spent much of their time crawling rather than walking. With no guides, no restrictions, and limited knowledge about caves and caverns, this early exploration resulted in a significant amount of damage. Wanting souvenirs, the visitors broke off the small formations they encountered, thus destroying years of growth. They also wanted to prove how far they were able to progress through the passageways, so they often left what guides now call “historic graffiti” written or carved into the limestone. Many of the autographs provide the date, and some even include the visitor’s hometown. These markings provide evidence of the furthest points reached by the early visitors. Eventually, they all had to turn around; the sediment was so close to the ceiling, that the passageway was impassable.
In 1922, the landowner sold his property to Al and Ira Smith, two brothers from Dayton, Ohio. With the help of local farmers, the brothers began to remove the sediment from the passageways. Due to the narrow confines of the caverns, major excavating equipment was not practical. For more than three years, workers cleaned out the passages using nothing more than shovels and buckets. The excavation process created two new openings and led to the discovery of more than two miles of previously unknown passageways. The sediment that blocked these areas protected large displays of beautiful white formations. In 1925, the Smith brothers blocked the original opening, closed the area known as Mt. Tabor Cave, and began offering guided tours through the newly discovered passages under the name Ohio Caverns.
Since its opening in 1925, ownership of Ohio Caverns has passed from generation to generation of the Smith family. Many improvements have been made to the cavern tours in this time. One example is the lighting system within the caverns. The original bulb-and-wire electrical system was powered by two Fordson tractors. In the early 1930s, the system was upgraded when Ohio Caverns was able to connect to a rural electricity grid. A second upgrade came during the winter of 1988-1989 and remains in use today. The current lights are shaded, and the wires are hidden, the main line buried beneath the concrete path, which was poured in the 1970s.
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the discovery of the cavern, the area originally known as Mt. Tabor Cave was reopened to the public. Historic tours were offered during the summer months beginning in the summer of 1996. Unused since 1925, no improvements had been made to this area. To give visitors a more authentic and historic feel, only limited changes were made. Rather than pouring concrete, the muddy sediment was covered by gravel. Once again, the narrow confines of the passage limited the equipment available for the job. Workers carried more than several tons of gravel, one bucket at a time, and used rakes to spread it in the pathway. Also, a replica of the original bulb-and-wire lighting systems was used in place of the modern shaded system of the newer passages. These tours were offered for only three summers, and the historic area was once again closed to the general public in the fall of 1998.
To celebrate the 125th anniversary of the discovery a Lantern Tour is being offered through the Historic section of the caverns. This tour is offered through August and is by reservation only. There will be one tour a day at 9:10 am and will be for only 20 people. You can call 937-465-4017 between 9 am and 5 pm to reserve your spot on this limited available tour.
CLICK HERE
For an in-depth multimedia story about Ohio Caverns’ history, unique discoveries, and current offerings.
Summer is not over yet! There is still plenty of time to plan a getaway to Historic Roscoe Village. Roscoe had once been a bustling stop along the Ohio & Erie Canal, especially during the 1830s and 40s. Today the village is still filled with history and stories of what this Canal Town was like. Ever wonder how the canal started… when you take a self-guided Living History Tour, you will start off by watching The Ditches with Destiny, a short video of how the canal started and grew across Ohio. After the video, you will venture out into the village to see rugged village blacksmiths use traditional tools and fire to demonstrate forging techniques. Talk with a broom maker, visit a doctor’s office and the doctor’s house right next door, see how weavings were made on a traditional loom in the Craftsman’s house, and you can even take a school lesson in a one-room schoolhouse. If you would like to try your hand at some crafts, make sure to stop by the Hay Activity Building to weave, dip candles, design a quilt square and so much more! Visit www.roscoevillage.com for more information on Living History Tours.
Don’t forget when you are here to take a trip over to the canal boat the Monticello III and take a ride down a restored section of the canal being pulled by horses. When spending time in the Village, it is a must to visit the Shops of Roscoe. There are four delicious restaurants in the village; along with shops that offer handmade leather goods, home décor, women’s & children’s clothing, locally made food and wines, old-fashioned candy & soda, a specialty store just for dogs, American -made flags and so much more. For more information on the shops visit www.roscoevillageshops.com.
If you are visiting this fall look for the revamped “Spirit Tour.” This self-guided tour will take you through the village and tell you family-friendly spooky stories of past Roscoe residents. Speaking of fall, start planning now to come to the 51st Annual Apple Butter Festival being held Friday, October 21st – Sunday, October 23rd. This 3-day festival is one not to miss! Stroll down the street and enjoy the smell of fresh apple butter being made. You will enjoy more than 100 craft and food vendors, live music, free crafts for kids, and more. Purchase your tickets online at www.roscoevillage.com for Apple Butter and receive a discount for this event. It is also never too late to start thinking about Christmas. Start a family tradition or continue one by visiting during the first two Saturdays in December for the Annual Christmas tree lighting and Christmas tour. Enjoy Christmas carolers, homemade cookies, and hot apple cider. You will listen to a Christmas story and sing Silent Night, while the magic of Christmas is happening right in front of you.
Leave the hectic pace of the modern world behind and get away to Historic Roscoe Village today!
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
August & September are Hot, Hot, Hot in Sidney, Ohio
With the summer travel season in full swing, Sidney is the place to be for paddling, pedaling, living history, and unique dining experiences.
Sidney’s Paddles, Pedals, & Pints is a can’t-miss for those who enjoy the outdoors and malted beverages. This August 13th event will feature a Cycle Adventure, Kayak Adventure, and Craft Beer and Soda tastings. The paddle adventure includes a 90-minute guided float on the Great Miami River. Participants can bring their kayaks and gear or rent them. A choice of four morning and afternoon tour times are available. Those looking for a bicycle adventure will meet at Sidney’s beautiful Tawawa Park for a scenic ride beginning at 9:30 a.m. The pints adventure involves a craft beer and craft soda tasting to round out the day. All involved adventurers will receive a commemorative T-shirt and cup. If interested you have to act fast. Registration for this unique Paddle/Pedal Adventure closes soon!
September 17 and 18 return the Civil War Living History Weekend and Reenactment to Sidney. This Bi-Annual Civil War Living History Weekend will feature Union and Confederate reenactment soldiers, battle scenes, and military and civilian encampments staged in Sidney’s beautiful, 220-acre Tawawa Park. Scheduled hour-long major battles will be presented along with Union/Confederate skirmishes sporadically each day. Cannon and rifle fire will add to the realism and drama of these experiences. Also planned for the weekend is a series of living history educational programs that will feature first-person accounts of life during the Civil War era. Period-specific Catholic and Protestant church services are also planned for Sunday morning.
The Lake Loramie Fall Festival kicks off this year on September 16th and runs through the 18th at the Lake Loramie State Park. Always a family favorite, this year’s Fall Festival offers arts & crafts, live entertainment, a mountain man encampment, games for the kids, great food & cold drinks. The antique power show will feature a sawmill, tractors, barrel push and gas engines. New to the festival this year is the Barhorst Family Belgium horses and admission is free.
Those seeking a unique dining experience are sure to enjoy the Open Air Dinner on September 29th. The Ross Covered Bridge will serve as the host location for this extraordinary evening. A beautifully prepared farm-to-table dinner accompanied by great music and conversation will make this a memorable dining experience for all in attendance.
Those looking for a little less structure to the weekend will find a whole host of outdoor recreation ideas on the Sidney Visitors Bureau website. The weekend getaway page is sure to entice those seeking a nearby option “to get away from it all”, relax, unwind, and recharge.
While in Sidney might we suggest lunch at an iconic diner, The Spot. First established in 1907 as a lunch wagon operated by Spot Miller, today The Spot is an art deco-style diner loved by locals for its fresh-ground hamburgers, crispy onion rings, thick malts, and homemade pies. Dine in or order carryout and picnic like a pro across the street in the shade of the old-growth oak trees on the Shelby County Courthouse lawn.
Family-owned Italian pizza shop Amelio’s Pizzeria is serving up years of family heritage and Italian culture. Husband and wife Rob and Toni Thorne named the restaurant after Toni’s great-grandfather, Giuseppe Amelio Cecere, who came to America from Italy in 1920 and opened a pizza shop in his garage.
Yet another dinner option is The Bridge Restaurant, serving upscale eats like steak and seafood prepared fresh in-house daily, or Tavolo, offering modern Italian fare. Before calling it a night, be sure to check out what’s on tap at Murphy’s Craftbar + Kitchen. This trendy bistro boasts 48 taps featuring a wide selection of Ohio brews and craft cocktails.
Come see why Sidney is hot, hot, hot, not only in August and September but year-round. Sidney Ohio. A spirit we share.
Step up to Medina County for end-of-summer and fall fun. Come and enjoy the many great festivals and events offered all year long, especially in the late summer and fall.
The month of August starts off with the Medina County Fair where families can come see farm animals, 4-H programs, bands, antique tractors, a rodeo, motocross, demo derbies, rides, and of course great fair food. Fun for the whole family. If crafts are your thing stop in Medina Square on the second Sunday in August for Affair on the Square Craft Show. Throughout August concerts are held all over the county. Some are free while others will have a charge to attend, but all will be live music you can relax and enjoy. The concerts are tribute bands, jazz, country rock & pop. Contact the visitor’s bureau to see what concerts are planned throughout August & September. On August 27 and September 24 plan a family night out at Buckin Ohio for a rodeo and barrel racing. Call ahead for tickets.
When in town on a Saturday morning stop at a local farmers’ market for fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, frozen meat, bread, and specialty foods. Markets are in Seville, Wadsworth, and Medina, while Brunswick holds theirs on Sunday mornings.
For rail enthusiasts, the Northern Ohio Railway Museum is open on Saturdays. Walk around and in their collection of trolleys, all in different states of renovation. On August 13th & on the 27th take a short trolley ride weather permitting. Check out www.northernohiorailwaymuseum.org for updates and ticket prices.
Medina County Parks are fun places to get out and enjoy the outdoors. The parks offer biking and hiking trails, fishing in some of the lakes, and great programs and activities all year long. See www.medinacountyparks.com. for all the great programs in August and September.
There are spectacular shopping opportunities at the Historic Medina Square, town centers, and out in the country. Unique stores like the Log Cabin Shop cater to the reenactors but have a great used book collection and a small museum showing an early American Kitchen and how it worked. Hollo’s Paper Craft is a great stop for scrapbooking enthusiasts and those looking for great prices on paper, envelopes, and other paper supplies. The Alpaca Boutique offers items specialty items made from Alpaca wool. Root Candles has been a Medina County business for over 150 years, where they have their flagship store offering their candles and home decoration sold from their original factory. The candles are known for burning longer, cleaner, and with fabulous fragrances.
No trip to Medina County is complete without a stop at Castle Noel the World’s largest Christmas Entertainment complex. Open weekends all year long they have thousands of props set pieces and costumes from Christmas movies. They also have New York City Department store Christmas windows, and toys from the 40s-90s. A second business in the lower section of the building is Alien Vacation Freaky 3-D blacklight Mini Golf. Always a great family entertainment. Speaking of family entertainment Foundry Social offers games such as bowling, corn hole, ping pong, pool, and arcade games. It has a brewery and food with High Voltage Karting attached. Brunswick’s Scene 75 has arcade games, indoor carting, indoor mini golf, and laser tag. For food, while enjoying the games there is a food truck alley with three food trucks available for meals and snacks. Medina County is a great place to bring family and friends.
Plan your getaway at https://www.visitmedinacounty.com/.
Summer is nearly over, but nothing is slowing down in Coshocton County! There are tours to do, places to visit, and events to experience. Enjoy some downtime before school begins again with a lovely, gorgeous trip to Coshocton.
The self-guided Living History Tour in Historic Roscoe Village is one can’t-miss attraction while visiting. Tickets are available for purchase at the Historic Roscoe Village Visitors Center. It supplies the group with a key that accesses each building, allowing for opportunities to stop in shops, sit down at a restaurant to eat, or even take time to explore each historic site fully! Enjoy the videos at each stop along the way to learn the historical significance of each building. Visitors can make crafts at the Hay Activity Building, such as making candles or ropes or learning how to weave on a loom. Keep the historic feel rolling with a 45-minute canal ride as visitors learn about life during canal days. The Monticello III runs until mid-October on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 1 P.M., 2 P.M., 3 P.M., and 4 P.M., weather permitting. One final thing on the road to preparing for back-to-school is school shopping. While everyone understands the appeal of going to department stores for things such as pens, notebooks, and binders–save the rest of the list for small, independently owned shops. Coshocton is home to many unique and charming shops, which can be found here.
An annual fan favorite in Coshocton is the Sunflower Festival at Coshocton’s KOA! It’s held every year in August, with the Sippin’ on Sunshine being the event that kicks off the festival on August 6, 2022, and it allows for patrons to sample different wines and beers throughout the sunflower field. There are dates to explore the field with everyone in mind, with the main festival being August 12-14 and the Final Flowers weekend being August 20-21. These weekends will all have live music, food trucks, craft vendors, and a cash bar. There are also Early Weekdays and Late Weekdays for those who want time to enjoy the fields and take pictures quietly. These events do not offer live music or food trucks, but they do have refreshments and merchandise available. Also, every ticket purchased in the duration of the entire festival allows the ticket holder to receive one sunflower of their choosing–with dozens of varieties to select from. To purchase tickets ahead of time or learn more about the festival, check out www.coshoctonsunflowerfestival.com!
Coshocton is a busy place that offers unique events every season. For more information on planning an amazing trip, please visit Coshocton Visitors Bureau’s website to keep an eye on events and attractions!
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!
“Where does your food come from?”
“The grocery store.”
Unfortunately, most American’s are so far removed from what was once the lifeblood of our way of life that this question and answer is more a norm than a joke.
Niederman Family Farm is a working farm that invites everyone in to see just what the now popular phrase “Farm-to-Table” truly means. The story they tell is generations in the making. And although the agricultural scene in this country has changed drastically, one thing remains constant: as soon as a child touches the fur or feathers of a farm animal, magic happens.
And that is what the Niedermans bring to the table – farm magic! And some dirt under the fingernails.
Every year, Bethann and her family dream up something new to offer. Already they feature farm tours for groups and schools which include touching and learning about the farm animals and crops, a 60-foot-long bouncy pillow under a barn on stilts, a farm store, elaborate paintball courses, and special events throughout the year. Their fall festivities are incredibly popular.
Birthday (and all) parties are unforgettable. The Niederman’s built a play area that features a variety of massive playsets and activities like water duck races, and more. But still, most kids just love running around the mountain of dirt. Were dirty fingernails mentioned yet? No worries, those hands will come clean before the group of 20 or 300 reconvene in the pavilion. Do not worry about details. That is what farmhands are for. And they help ensure an unusual and remarkable experience.
Playdates are also popular on the farm. Reserve time to partake in the fun activities at the many play areas across the farm. Fly a kite, use the ball zones, jump on the pillow, climb in the new play barn, use the tractor play area, and enjoy the sunshine with a small snack and drink included!
Meeting and event planners long for fresh sites away from stodgy hotels and floating walls. Whether it is a corporate picnic, business function, wedding, reunion, or party, the Niedermans know how to grow memorable experiences in unusual ways. A renovated 1890s climate-controlled barn can accommodate 200 people. Just outside is a vast deck, perfect for a roast, picnic, or hors d’oeuvres and entertainment. It is designed to connect indoor and outdoor activities. The meeting options are as diverse as the fun!
“We thrive on bringing a disappearing culture back to America in unique ways,” said Bethann Niederman. “we have fun helping families and groups harvest their own memories on our farm.”
By far, the biggest pastime on the farm is to run around the woods and fields chasing friends, family, classmates, or even co-workers trying to splat paint on their gluteus maximus. Again, you do not need to bring a thing – the Niedermans provide everything paintball for the first-timer to the seasoned pro. There are smaller speedball courses with bunkers and barriers. For those seeking more strategy and who want to cover vast areas of woods and streams, there are the woods fields.
The fun can last into the evening, so barn rentals and bonfire pits are there to bring everyone close. Stargaze, roast marshmallows, and have fireside chats and storytelling. But most of all, laugh. That is the deep cleanse everyone wants to walk away with after playing on a farm for a day.
Niederman Family Farm is known for adapting to the wants and needs of its visitors. So, it was in that spirit that they decided to create a Farm Market.
“We started this because people called on the phone to ask about our farm-to-table apple butter, jellies, jams, and other items,” said Bethann Niederman.
The farm store is a pop-up shop of sorts. It is not always open. But follow Niederman Family Farm on social media and look for the alerts. It is because of the limited availability and high demand for quality and hard-to-get items that make pop-up shops like the Niederman Farm Market wildly popular.
The Niederman family continues to adapt, educate, entertain, and grow memories for its guests every year. They simply take pleasure in offering insight to today’s farms as well as a nostalgic look back at farming in America. But most of all, they grow fun!
Niederman Family Farm is located at 5110 LeSourdsville-West Chester Road in Liberty Township, Ohio between Cincinnati and Dayton. Reservations are required. Call 513-779-6184 or visit NiedermanFamilyFarm.com if you want to run around care-free for a day or evening. Hey, if it is going to be outside, it might as well be at Niederman Family Farm.
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.
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.
Ohio Stretch is in its New Glory Days
By Frank Rocco Satullo, your tour guide to fun!
The Ohio Lincoln Highway BuyWay Sale is in mid-August every year! Enjoy roadside bargains along the Ohio stretch of America’s first road to connect the east and west coasts. Click here for more information.
Point that hood ornament toward America’s first road trip. Take a joyride on the original coast-to-coast byway – the Lincoln Highway!
This “Main Street Across America” as it was known ushered in the freedom of the road era that helped spawn other legendary treks across the United States. But this seminal road was the very first transcontinental automobile route. It connected Times Square in New York City to Lincoln Park in San Francisco along with 3,389 miles of drive-over country. Wanderlust carried Ford’s Model T, the Maxwell, Franklin, Hupmobile and Studebaker to distances never before dared.
Until recently, this historic road was forgotten in a flurry of inventions that ignited progress, everyone looking forward. Nobody bothered to look in the rearview mirror. And when they did, much of the original road had been buried or rerouted. But across Wayne County, Ohio, it pretty much is as it was. So as the fascinating story of the Lincoln Highway resurfaced in recent years, this sweet spot has steadily gained momentum and leisure traffic once again. The experiential traveler can see, hear, touch, smell, and taste the lure of this nostalgic stretch of pavement that leads to the crossroads of Pastime and modern times. …Read More…
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.
Shelby County is steeped in Americana. Founded in 1819, Shelby County received its name to honor Kentucky’s governor and officer in the Revolutionary War, General Isaac Shelby. The County is home to one city, eight villages, and fourteen townships. Originally part of the Northwest Territory with the Greenville Treaty Line dividing the pioneers from the Native American settlements, Shelby County has a history that goes much deeper than its roots in agriculture and manufacturing.
A mobile app was developed to showcase county-wide points of interest. With the app downloaded to either Apple or Android devices, users can take a self-guided driving or bicycling tour of Shelby County to visit over 300 interesting and historic sites.
The app offers users the opportunity to plan their tour by Township, by Town, or by Category. Available categories include Churches, Architecture, Geological, Historic Sites, Monuments, the Miami-Erie Canal, Schools, and One-Room Schoolhouses. GPS enabled, the mobile app will guide users to their specific locations of interest, and, upon arrival, users can read or listen to a brief overview that describes the significance of each site.
All 411 square miles of Shelby County Ohio’s unique history is now available at your fingertips! For a true one-of-a-kind experience, download the Discover Shelby County History app today at the App Store or Google Play.
For every recreation preference, the possibilities are many in Sidney and Shelby County. In addition to the Discover Shelby County History app, visitors can select from seven carefully prepared travel itineraries or build their own from a long list of things to see and do while in the area. Additional information about local attractions, restaurants, shopping, and lodging in west-central Ohio can be found on the website of the Sidney Visitors Bureau at www.VisitSidneyShelby.com (“Sidney Ohio… We’re waiting for you.”).
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
At Lake Erie Shores & Islands
The “dog days of summer” in the Midwest means temperatures soaring into the 80’s, 90’s, and have even been known to top 100 degrees.
When the heat needs beat, head to Lake Erie Shores & Islands to enjoy the following options to cool down.
Break away to the beach: With more than 27 Lake Erie beach destinations, wade in the shallow water and feel the cool coastal breezes while sinking toes into the sand. There are rentals at several beaches so people don’t have to “sweat” lugging their beach stuff. Some beaches also allow pets.
Take a ferry ride to an island: Enjoy the wind combing hair while standing on the deck on the way to Kelleys Island, Middle Bass Island, or Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island. Sure, the Lake Erie islands are great destinations in themselves, but getting there is half the fun! Lake transportation may include indoor or outdoor seating, scenic views. Some offer narrated tours of the surrounding sites.
Watery thrills: Experience an adrenaline rush while cooling down! Zoom across the surface of Lake Erie with a Jet Ski or waverunner rental from Put-in-Bay Watercraft Rentals, Erie Shore Wave Runners in Vermilion, or North Coast Parasail & Water Sports in Sandusky – where you can also parasail high above the lake.
Two words – Ice Cream: Toft Dairy is famous for their mega-portion ice cream cones. Over 50 flavors are offered at their scooping parlors. The Lake Erie Cookie Island Monster is a favorite. It features a mix of blue cake batter ice cream blended with cookie dough chunks, drops of chocolate chips, and chocolate cookies and cream. Yum! Other great spots for a tasty ice cream treat include Granny Joe’s Ice Creamatorium, Milan Village Drive-Thru, DQ Grill & Chill, Dairy Isle, Bay Bell Snack Shack, Brown Dog Gelato Co., as well as others.
Splash the day away at a water park: Enjoy Ohio’s waterpark capital for the ultimate getaway at Kalahari Resorts for indoor and outdoor watery fun, complete with thrills from mild to wild. Add in a huge arcade, Safari Outdoor Adventure Park, Spa Kalahari and Salon, and so much more, Kalahari goes beyond your expectations. Other water park options include Great Wolf Lodge, Castaway Bay, and Cedar Point Shores.
Sip a frozen drink: There’s nothing like a refreshing drink to cool off on a hot summer day. Try the famous Brandy Alexander from the Village Pump on Kelleys Island – a local favorite. The Keys at Put-in-Bay features the famous “Fat Tuesday” frozen drinks; best enjoyed at a waterfront table. If you happen to be in Sandusky for sunset, don’t miss the “Freighter in the Bay” drink special at Dockside Café – a yummy rum punch concocted whenever someone spots a freighter coming into Sandusky Bay.
Paddle Lake Erie: Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddle boarding have grown in popularity among local water recreation activities. Check out Portage River Paddling Co. in Port Clinton and Oak Harbor, Lakeside Chautauqua Watercraft Rentals, Kelleys Island Kayak Rentals, Put-in-Bay Watercraft Rentals, or West River Paddle Sports in Vermilion.
Sip a cold one at a brewery: Ahhh! A freshly-brewed craft beer can be especially refreshing. Grab a cold one at one of these local hot spots: Twin Oast Brewing, Bait House Brewery, Kelleys Island Brewery, and Put-in-Bay Brewery & Distillery. You can even enjoy a cold Lake Erie Love brew from Catawba Island Brewing Company!
A place like no other: Sometimes, the best way to cool off is by screaming at the top of your lungs while plummeting down a 300-foot-tall hill at speeds exceeding 90 mph. Cedar Point Amusement Park featuring some of the tallest and fastest rides and roller coasters in the world. In addition, it offers water rides, great live entertainment (in air-conditioned theatres!) and more. This place offers a wide variety of chills and thrills.
Cool Culture: Check out the museums. There’s the Liberty Aviation Museum and Thomas Edison Birthplace, among others. Or catch a performance at the Sandusky State Theatre.
Whenever the temps climb closer to three digits, be sure to take frequent breaks and relax in the shade or someplace cool, and remember to keep hydrated!
Ride out the heat wave(s) ahead and chill out at SHORESandISLANDS.com.
Every experienced traveler wants to know where the locals love to eat. Coshocton’s top-ten locally-loved restaurants will have you coming back for more.
Amici’s Pizza: No matter how you slice it, Amici’s is a local fan-favorite for pizza in Coshocton! The owners of this establishment are huge supporters of the local football team, The Ridgewood Generals, and you can see an old scoreboard gracing their front yard upon arrival.
Tip: Amici’s delivers to Wooly Pig Farm Brewery – because beer and pizza is the perfect combo.
Earl’s Dari Drive-In: Here’s the inside scoop into Coshocton’s favorite ice cream stop. With sandwiches, fried comfort foods, and ice cream, Earl’s is one-of-a-kind and will have you coming back for more. Travel back to a simpler time with an old-fashioned hand-dipped ice cream cone or sundae. They are a seasonal shop, so the whole town goes bananas during opening week each spring. *Be sure to bring your wallet, because they only accept cash or check*
Tip: Get two spoons with the Old-fashioned Banana Split — It’s big enough to share.
English Ivy:You cannot go wrong with the English Ivy, right in the heart of Coshocton. This casual, cozy restaurant will make you feel like you’re in the comfort of your home. They have something for everyone… meaning their pie selection is outstanding! Open for lunch Tuesday – Saturday from 10:30am – 2:30pm, and dinner on Fridays & Saturdays, 5 – 8pm.
Tip: Some fan-favorites include their blackened salmon salad, broccoli cheddar soup & Cuban sandwich.
Hannah Marie’s: Make your morning perfect with a hot latte and fresh baked treat from Hannah Marie’s! Whether you’re on the go or have time to lounge with friends, Hannah Marie’s is always a ‘brew-tiful’ way to start your day. This adorable bakery also specializes in custom cupcakes, cookies, and cakes for all types of celebrations.
Tip: The outdoor patio is dog friendly, so you can enjoy a cup of coffee with your best buddy.
Lava Rock Grill – Unusual Junction Diner: Located at The Unusual Junction in a restored 19th century railroad station, this 1950s inspired diner is unforgettable. They offer classic and innovative meals (see: The Cuban Reuban, below.) While you’re there, check out the original Bob Barker’s Price is Right sign that hangs inside.
Tip: Order the tater tots – that’s it. That’s the tip. Do it.
McKenna’s Market: This local deli is much more than you can imagine! Not only do they offer made-to-order subs and salads, they use all local produce, meat, & cheese. They are also your stop for all-Ohio wines and beers! They have #OhioPride!
Tip: Try the homemade frozen custard and caramel corn. Maybe at the same time.
Roberta’s Diner: Roberta’s is a classic in Coshocton County! Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a cozy atmosphere. The whole town waits for her white-board-written daily specials to be posted on her Facebook page, so you can see that Roberta’s is truly a fan-favorite.
Tip: Prime Rib nights are a must.
Sorrell’s on the Square: The newest restaurant in Coshocton has quickly turned into a local favorite! The farmhouse-esque interior is classic, comfortable, and clean. Their full bar is open and inviting! Have a drink with your buds before sitting down for a delicious American-style meal (Can you say wings & burgers?).
Tip: Order the cheesecake. Locals say it is the best!
Warehouse Steak n’ Stein: What used to be the Roscoe Village Post Office is now a favorite to the locals and visitors alike! The Warehouse hosts live music and offers seating on a spacious, shady, outdoor patio – great for parties and celebrations.
Tip: Try their famous onion rings.
Yucatan: If you wanna ‘taco’ bout a favorite, the Yucatan is it! For nearly 20 years, this bright and casual restaurant has been serving authentic and delicious Mexican food. Their delightful staff will make you feel like old friends; the full bar and top-notch margaritas will really give your night out an extra kick.
Tip: Enjoy their newly-added outside seating.
Get Social with these “Locals” and tag your photos #VisitCoshocton.
And for some after-dinner fun, try…
Legacy Lanes and Lounge: This is a locally-loved watering hole among 21 – 30 year olds. Their full bar and dedicated bartender, Marley, will really give your night the umph it needs! Play giant jenga, classic arcade games, rock out with the jukebox (or request a song from Marley), & bowl a game or two! They also serve delicious food, from full meals, to pizza, to light snacks.
Tip: Whatever menu item or new cocktail Marley suggests, get it. He has never steered anyone wrong.
You cannot miss out on Wooly Pig Farm Brewery. Open late on the weekends, this is such a fun experience. See actual wooly pigs on an actual farm. Peek into the brewery through their floor-to-ceiling windows.
Tip: Take some snacks, a deck of cards, a few friends, and enjoy relaxing outdoors.
There’s a lot more to share about these favorite local eateries in Coshocton. For complete information to plan your do-it-yourself food trail, click here.
EnterTRAINment Junction May Have Found Them
at One of the Largest Marble Exhibits in the World
You’ve got your bonkers, mashers, thumpers, plumpers, bumbos, hoggers and toe-breakers. Know what they are? They are all nicknames for… marbles!
If you knew that, you must be a marble afficianado, and if you are a marble fan you don’t want to miss one of most unique and complete marble collections in the world at EnterTRAINment Junction in West Chester, Ohio. The incredible marble exhibit “A Marbleous Life” has just been added as a permanent exhibit.
This collection was donated to EnterTRAINment Junction by Larry and Cathy Svacina of Kansas City, Missouri, two of the nation’s most esteemed collectors and experts in all things marbles. Cathy Svacina is known worldwide as “The Marble Lady” and she and her husband and their collection have been featured in People Magazine, USA Today, Women’s World Magazine, Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, and U.S. News and World Report. Their marbles also have even been featured on the Discovery Channel and the Travel Channel and even in Hollywood films such as “Goonies,” “Hook,” and “Home Alone.”
The new permanent marble display at EnterTRAINment Junction will be both fun and educational for families. Visitors can see all the different styles and color of marbles, learn marble history and trivia, play marble games and see an amazing kinetic marble sculpture.
No one really knows where marbles originated. They’ve been found in the ashes of Pompeii and in the tombs of ancient Egyptians, and they were played with by Native American tribes. For centuries artisans made marbles by hand from clay, stone, or glass. Mass production became possible in 1884, when Sam Dyke of Akron, Ohio, used a manufacturing method to make marbles by machines.
The game of Marbles may be the oldest game on earth. Marbles can be used for a variety of games called marbles.
Marbles are even popular in today’s computer, internet and video games such as Marble Madness, Marble Blast Gold, Kororinpa and Marble Drop. Other games that use marbles include Marble Solitaire, Aggravation, Chinese Checkers, Hungry Hungry Hippos and Ker Plunk.
The “Marble Lady” Cathy Svacina is known around the globe. She has made marble presentations for groups of all ages both in the US and Canada, as well as in Europe, Japan and Mexico. She is often called upon to identify and/or appraise marbles for museums, archaeologists, and auctioneers. She is author of the book, “Knuckles Down! A Fun Guide to Marble Play,” and has also participated and been a referee at city, state, national and world marble championship tournaments.
The new marble exhibit at EnterTRAINment Junction is in the family entertainment center’s large Expo Center. The exhibit is free to the public.
EnterTRAINment Junction, winner of numerous tourist attraction awards, is home to the world’s largest indoor model train display, the Amaze-N-FunHouse, an incredible replica of old Coney Island, and much more. To plan your visit, go to www.entertrainmentjunction.com.
Central Ohio is an easy, one-tank trip from nearly anywhere in Ohio. Just 30 miles northeast of Columbus, Licking County has much to offer visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and spend some unplugged quality time. Here, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse in art, history, culture, and the outdoors.
Here are seven things to see and do before summer wraps up!
Granville may be one of the most charming towns in Ohio! The New England-style town is filled with distinctive architecture, great local shops, restaurants and more. Visitors can stroll the Granville Farmer’s Market for local eats on Saturday mornings and wind down in the evening with a craft brew at Three Tigers Brewing Company.
A few unique lodging options include the Welsh Hills Inn, a consistently top-rated bed and breakfast in the nation and world. The Granville Inn and the Buxton Inn are also highly recognized, charming stays. And for those interested in a spookier stays, there are guest rooms that have had haunted experiences reported. Glamping accommodations are available at the Orchard House.
Licking County boasts more local breweries per capita than even Columbus and recently launched a beer trail where visitors can visit all 10 breweries, collect stamps, and claim a prize at the Licking County Visitors Bureau. Also, a new wine trail recently opened. From Three Oaks Vineyard in Granville to Sand Hollow Winery in Heath, wine lovers enjoy sipping their favorite vinos in beautiful surroundings.
Outdoor activities abound throughout the county. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking, camping or glamping. Explore Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve, pitch a tent at Lazy River at Granville, or float the river at the Riverview Park and Canoe Launch.
Ohiolina Bluegrass Festival combines the sounds of Ohio, North Carolina, and places in between. Celebrate the region’s unique traditions including folk and bluegrass. Also enjoy the local culinary movements. The festival takes place in Granville every September.
The Newark Earthworks are the largest set of geometric earthen enclosures in the world. Already a National Historic Landmark, in 2006, the State of Ohio designated the Newark Earthworks as “the official prehistoric monument of the state.” Built by people of the ancient Hopewell Culture between 100 B.C. and 500 A.D., this architectural wonder of ancient America was part cathedral, part cemetery, and part astronomical observatory.
Dawes Arboretum, founded in 1929 by Beman and Bertie Dawes, was inspired by the couple’s love of trees and nature. Today, they remain dedicated to the mission of providing exceptional educational programs and events as well as maintaining incredible horticulture collections on nearly 2,000 acres of beautiful grounds.
So close your summer in Licking County with nearby trips to experience art, history, culture, and the outdoors. Your family will thank you.
Frequent visitors to African Safari Wildlife Park will notice some familiar faces that have returned to the Walk-Thru Safari.
“We are excited to announce that our Red River Hog and Warthog are back on exhibit in the Walk-Thru Safari,” said General Manager, Josh Adkins. “A lot of effort, planning, and thought has gone into these new exhibits and we’re happy to see the hogs are enjoying their new homes in the Walk-Thru.”
African Safari fans and previous guests will remember the hogs being exhibited in the middle of the Walk-Thru Safari near the Park’s playground. Their previous exhibit is now home to the park’s collection of tortoises. Many exhibits in the Walk-Thru Safari were transformed in early 2019 to allow for the new Zoo-It-All Experience. With the Zoo-It-All Pass, guests may feed and interact with African crested porcupines, tortoises, rabbits, parakeets, and red kangaroos, and wallaby.
The Red River Hog and Warthog exhibits feature a barrier-free viewing experience, a concept that the park is embracing throughout the Walk-Thru Safari with its exhibits. A large “mud wallow” at the front of each exhibit can also be seen by guests. The wallows allow the hogs to demonstrate natural behaviors such as swimming and rooting.
Fun and interesting facts about the red river hog and warthog are incorporated into the park’s HogWILD Experience Program that runs daily in the Walk-Thru Safari. After each program, guests are encouraged to see the hogs in their new exhibits.
All animals at African Safari Wildlife Park can be seen daily from 9am to 7pm. The last automobile is admitted into the Park at 6pm.
Feature of the Month
THE CHILLICOTHE AREA
This month’s feature video showcases
Chillicothe, Ohio and Ross County
historical attractions, family adventures and fun!
Enjoy the show.
Safari Golf Club at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has achieved designation as a “Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary” through the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses. Ted Hunker, Golf Course Superintendent, led the effort over the last three years to obtain sanctuary designation on the property and is being recognized for Environmental Stewardship by Audubon International. Less than 2 percent of the 910 golf courses in Ohio and only 2.7 percent of the 33,000 golf courses worldwide have achieved the distinction of holding the title of Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary.
“Safari Golf Club at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has shown a strong commitment to its environmental program. They are to be commended for their efforts to provide a sanctuary for wildlife on the golf course property,” said Christine Kane, executive director at Audubon International.
“To reach certification, a course must demonstrate that they are maintaining a high degree of environmental quality in a number of areas,” explained Kane. These categories include: Environmental Planning, Wildlife and Habitat Management, Outreach and Education, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, and Water Quality Management.
“We are absolutely pleased and honored to receive this designation from Audubon International,” said Columbus Zoo President and CEO Tom Stalf. “Our team at Safari Golf Club has worked tirelessly to ensure the course has a positive impact on both the environment and our guests. Thanks to their dedication to this cause and the resulting designation from Audubon International, Safari Golf Club is situated as a leader both in the sport and in sustainability.”
The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses, endorsed by the United States Golf Association, provides information and guidance to help golf courses preserve and enhance wildlife habitat and protect natural resources. Golf courses from the United States, Africa, Australia, Canada, Central America, Europe, New Zealand and Southeast Asia have achieved certification in the program.
Safari Golf Club is an 18-hole, 140-acre, mature golf course located adjacent to the Columbus Zoo. The par 72 course provides a challenge for players of all skill levels and boasts a modern layout, including five world-class holes designed by course architect, Dr. Michael Hurdzan. Safari Golf Club is also a premier event destination for golf outings, business meetings, graduation parties and more. New this year, The Events Center at Safari Golf Club offers a full-service, climate controlled meeting and event space that can accommodate 30-200 guests.
Since 2013, up to six acres have been made “native areas” by removing invasive non-native vegetation and managing for or planting native species. There are expanded areas that are managed without chemicals or pesticides. All golf carts are electric, minimizing the carbon footprint. Additionally, Safari Golf Club has a butterfly garden that is used by monarchs during their annual migration. In 2017, 81 bluebirds and 147 purple martins fledged from nest boxes and rigs (artificial nest cavities) constructed just outside the fairway. Safari Golf Club has fledged 563 purple martins and 452 bluebirds since the program began in 2008. Managers at Safari Golf Club continue to work closely with partners, including Preservation Parks of Delaware County and Nest Watch Ambassador, Darlene Sillick, who has monitored birds on the course for more than 25 years.
In addition to the sustainability programs that resulted in the Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary designation from Audubon International, Safari Golf Club supports the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds’ conservation initiatives. When patrons choose Safari Golf Club, they are making a positive impact on wildlife both locally and globally. Each of the 18 holes are also named after a species that benefits from some of the 70 conservation projects in 30 countries that the Columbus Zoo and The Wilds support annually. For more information about the conservation initiatives at Safari Golf Club, visit safarigolf.columbuszoo.org/.
About the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
Home to more than 10,000 animals representing over 600 species from around the globe, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium leads and inspires by connecting people and wildlife. The Zoo complex is a recreational and education destination that includes the 22-acre Zoombezi Bay water park and 18-hole Safari Golf Course. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium also operates The Wilds, a 10,000-acre conservation center and safari park located in southeastern Ohio. The Zoo is a regional attraction with global impact; annually contributing more than $4 million of privately raised funds to support conservation projects worldwide. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Columbus Zoo has earned Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating.
About Audubon International
Audubon International is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Troy, NY. In addition to golf courses, Audubon International also provides programs for businesses, schools, communities, and new developments with the purpose of delivering high-quality environmental education and facilitating the sustainable management of natural resources. For more information, call Audubon International at 1-844-767-9051 or visit www.auduboninternational.org.
Great Lakes Burning River Festival Returns
to the Coast Guard Station in August
Cleveland Metroparks joined Great Lakes Brewing Company and the Foundry to announce the completion of phase one in the restoration of Cleveland’s historic former United States Coast Guard Station. The restoration by Cleveland Metroparks, which began in Spring 2016, reached a new milestone with the recent completed interior restoration of the Main Building that formerly housed U.S. Coast Guard sleeping quarters, captain’s quarters, kitchen and more. The main building also features the 75 foot tower that offers a unique perspective of the Cleveland skyline and Lake Erie.
This most recent work was funded with proceeds from Great Lakes Brewing Company’s Burning River Fest, which will once again be held at the Station on August 17th and 18th. This year marks the tenth time that the event will build public awareness and support for the historic site. Funds raised benefit clean water initiatives such as this restoration through the Burning River Foundation.
Cleveland Metroparks is restoring the property with several partners including the City of Cleveland, Cleveland Foundation, The Gund Foundation, Burning River Foundation, Sherwin Williams, PNC Bank, Oswald Companies, ArcelorMittal, Kent H. Smith Charitable Trust and O’Neill Brothers Foundation.
The Foundry, Cleveland’s community rowing and sailing center, has also been a significant partner and installed new boat docks at the historic former Coast Guard Station in September 2017. Since then, the Foundry has hosted high school and collegiate sailing team practices as well as regattas out of the Station.
This month, Cleveland Metroparks offers a sailing program out of the historic former Coast Guard Station, “Try-Its”, under the guidance of a certified sailing instructor. The Station is being incorporated into additional outdoor recreational opportunities including Wendy Park Wednesdays that feature kayaking and stand up paddleboarding.
Restorations complete to date include exterior concrete restoration, restoration of the historic flag pole, new roofs on the Boat House and Main Building by City of Cleveland, new roof to Garage building, as well as painting, new and restored windows and garage doors, and new boat docks installed by the Foundry. Additional restorations are ongoing and will take place in a phased approach.
Where Every Day is an Adventure
With every chirping bird, splashing fish and ray of sunshine, the Ohio summer is begging for you to come out and play. Nestled just a few turns off of I-75 just south of Tipp City, Adventures on the Great Miami is a great place for you and your family to plan your fun both on and off the river.
“We’ve been operating on the Great Miami River for about 8 years now,” Chris Jackson, Owner of Adventures on the Great Miami said. “It started out pretty modestly with the money and knowhow from my concrete business. We just kept adding to the grounds each and every year. Things have really been taking off in the last few, though. It’s an exciting time for sure.”
With a fleet of kayaks, canoes, rafts, tubes and stand up paddleboards available to rent, sunscreen and dressing for the possibility of getting wet is all you really need to worry about. From the launch point and 5-miles back to the property is a nice and easy stretch of river, accommodating to paddlers of any skill levels.
“It’s great seeing all of the different people we get coming through,” Brian Johnson, Marketing Manager said. “You don’t need to worry about much besides the basic skills and safety that we share before seeing you off. The only time I’ve really been concerned about anyone getting on the river is seeing some of the nice shoes they wear.”
Adventures on the Great Miami’s 17-acre grounds also include 10 primitive camping sites, a finished cabin and soon a pair of teepees, so the fun in the sun can continue on into the night.
“It’s really set up for any level of comfort in camping,” Jackson said. “The cabin is fully furnished, the teepees provide your shelter and the camp sites are set up right next to the river or tucked nicely in the woods.”
Throughout the year, Adventures on the Great Miami also hosts a number of unique events. This June they hosted Southwest Ohio’s first ever river race with The Great Miami 12 Mile River Race and Fun Float.
“It’s our first year but we’ve been talking about this for a while so it’s great to see all of the planning come together,” Johnson said. “It’s not just a race either. The fun float is going to have a costume and team flag contest and we’ve got prizes for the team who’s able to collect the most trash on their way down.”
Jackson’s ambitions are no longer limited to his own 17-acres either as Adventures on the Great Miami has started offering boat rental at Troy’s recently remodeled Treasure Island Marina.
“The city’s done a great job in remodeling Treasure Island and I’m thrilled to be a part of what they’re doing,” Jackson said. “Right now we’re doing rentals and trying to host a few classes to get people comfortable on the river. I’ve got some big plans though. Like I’d love to see us hosting an airboat rally there by next summer.”
For hours, location and other information about Adventures on the Great Miami, call 937-266-6252 or visit https://greatmiami.net/.
Photo of American Sign Museum by Alias Imaging
The American Sign Museum is all about signs—signs—everywhere signs …and from every era, too. This one-of-a-kind destination features the rich tradition of sign design and displays vintage signs from 1900 to the present. Venture through time and see old wooden, handmade signs turn to gold leaf and glass, light bulbs to neon lights, and other techniques that advertise a bygone age. The museum has five main sections dedicated to the different eras of this artistic craft and includes an indoor main street with full-size storefronts and a canopy of captivating signs everywhere you look. To visit, get details here.
This award recognizes Ohio’s standouts in tourism. More details about the award and all award recipients are at ohiotraveler.com/standouts-in-ohio-tourism/.
This article is from a past edition of OhioTraveler.com
Downtown Dayton is full of adventure in August. First Friday has special offerings as it coincides with Downtown Adventure Night. Whether you are looking for art – music – entertainment – food & drink – or shopping, there’s a fun-filled evening awaiting you in downtown Dayton.
Art
The Collaboratory, 33 N Main St.: Step into one of the most wickedly imaginative minds in Dayton. See the world from a new perspective. Collaborate, as attendees are invited to bring their own found objects or trinkets to add to the installation. Featuring “Crystal City,” an installation-in-progress by Dayton street artist Bobby Blackstone. Also featuring, “The Art Truck” by Street Artist, Robin Dakin, known for his “What’s in Your Hood” paintings on old car and truck hoods will be live painting a “Downtown” Hood, which will be raffled off at the end of the evening.
Dayton Visual Arts Center, 118 N Jefferson St.: Enjoy Remnants and Resonate, an exhibition showcasing the creative ways in which four artists, Christina Pereyma, Susan Byrnes, Kate Kern and Francis Schanberger, find new purpose for life’s left-overs by creating new works out of objects, memories, and dreams once cast aside. Call 224-3822.
Front Street Gallery, 1001 E 2nd St.: This month the Divisible Gallery will hosting a special art events that will display the works of artists from China, Australia, Montreal, NYC, Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. Call 266-3491.
Music
Blind Bob’s, 430 E. Fifth St.: Featuring happy hour from 4 to 8 p.m., $1 off well drinks. Live music by Enkiridian, Grey Host, Caustic Casanova, and Close the Hatch. Call 938-6405.
De’Lish Café, 139 N. Main St.: Featuring Friday Nights Unplugged with live soul, jazz and R&B music from 9-11 p.m. with no cover charge, plus $5 drink specials all night. Call 461-2233.
Dublin Pub, 300 Wayne Ave.: Featuring Irish First Fridays, with a happy hour from 3-6 along with a performance by Miami Valley Pipes and Drums at 7 p.m.and live music by Lost Celts, an Irish Rock/ American Acoustic/British Folk music band now touring the Midwest starting at 9 p.m. Call 224-7822.
Gilly’s, 132 S. Jefferson St.: Old Skool Groove Night from 8 p.m. to midnight, $5 admission charge. Call 228-8414.
RiverScape MetroPark, 111 E. Monument Ave.: Pickin’ in the Park returns with free, live music by Sawgrass and Old Salt Union. Beer and food available for purchase on-site. Call 274-0126.
Trolley Stop, 530 E. Fifth St.: Live music by Cherry Lee starting at 9:30 p.m.Call 461-1101.
Entertainment
The Black Box Improv Theatre, 518 E. Third St.: Audience members share their social media profiles and watch a whole improvised show devoted to those stories. BYOB. Call for ticket prices and availability. Call 369-0747.
Courthouse Square, N Main St.: Watch adventure seekers rappel down 27 stories in support of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Miami Valley at the Over the Edge VIP ‘Drop Party’ from 5 pm – 8 pm. Enjoy craft beer, wine, food and entertainment inside the Big Brothers Big Sisters VIP ‘Drop Party’ tent. Admission $10. All proceeds benefit BBBSGMV’s mentoring mission. Call 641-6803.
Club Masque, 34 N Jefferson St.: Club Masque has their famous Ab Fab Friday on the first floor showcasing the Masque Men on stage and on the bar with a fantastic Drag Show. Show begins at 11 p. m. Arrive early for seats. On the second floor is Friday Night Lights with music and dancing all night long. Open at5 p.m. with no cover charge in celebration of Downtown Adventure Night. Regular cover charge of $7 21+ and $10 18+ begins at 9 pm. Call 228-2582.
Dayton Chess Club, 18 W. Fifth St.: Dayton Chess Club hosts a Quick tournament for US Chess Federation members. Games are perfect for club chess players and those experienced with online chess games who would like to test their skill over the board. The club opens at 6:30 p.m. and registration ends at7:25 p.m. The first of four games begins at 7:30. Visit daytonchessclub.com for more details. Call 461-6283.
Don Crawford Plaza, Fifth Third Field: Courteous Mass Dayton and Bike Miami Valley are teaming up to present a bike parade as part of Adventure Night! This police-escorted group ride will showcase activities that are part of the special event. Call 496-3825.
MJ’s on Jefferson, 20 N Jefferson St.: Head over to MJ’s for the Mr, King, and Miss Gem City Gay Pride Pageant. An official prelim to the Ohio Gay Pride Pageants featuring the Ohio Gay Pride Royalty and more! Pageant starts at10:30 p.m. $5 for 21+, $7 for 18-20. Call 223-3259.
The Neon, 130 E 5th St.: The Neon will be screening two hit movies, “Absolutely Fabulous,” the hysterical big-screen adaptation of the hit British television show, and “Café Society,” Woody Allen’s latest film set in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Call for show times and ticket prices, 222-7469.
Nucleus CoShare, 411 W. Fifth St.: First Friday means it’s time for another Free Workday! From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., visitors can experience what a co-shared office environment is like, and get a preview of the benefits a membership to Nucleus CoShare provides. No time in the day to visit? Stop by their open house from 5- 9 p.m. Call 259-4686.
The Old Courthouse, N Main St.: Old Case Files, this year’s murder trial reenactment is the 1896 case of Albert Frantz, accused of shooting his lover, Bessie Little, on the Ridge Avenue Bridge. One of Dayton’s most notorious court cases, audience members will learn what law and order was like in the Gem City at the turn of the 20th century. Dayton History Members: $12, Non-Members: $15, refreshments and memorabilia available for purchase. Space is limited, starts at 7:30 p.m. For more information, call 293-2841 Ext. 127.
Omega Music, 318 E 5th St.: Celebrate Omega Music’s 33 1/3 birthday from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., enjoy in-store live music and great company. Special merchandise available for purchase. Call 275-9949.
RiverScape MetroPark, 111 E. Monument Ave.: Try your hand at mountain bike skill elements, slacklining, disc golf and more during Urban Outdoor Experience from 5-8 p.m. Call 274-0126.
Spaghetti Warehouse, 36 W 5th St.: Enjoy an interactive mystery show in which one person vanishes and all must work together to untangle the puzzle. Can you put two and two together? $25.95 per person for dinner and interactive mystery show. Show starts at 7 p.m. Reservations Required. Call 461-3913.
Visit http://www.mayhemmystery.us for information.
Victoria Theatre Association, 138 N Main St.: Cool film series- Special Disney Weekend. Enjoy a weekend celebration of Disney films. Invitation only. Get your invitation by registering online. Show starts at 7 p.m. Call 225-7591.
Wiley’s Comedy Joint, 101 Pine St.: Featuring comedian Steve Hofstetter, tickets are $15 with a two-item minimum. Shows starts at 7:15 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Call 224-5653.
Food and Drink
Deaf Monty’s Wine, 22 Brown St.: $2-$3 tastings of select wines. Call 225-9463.
Fifth Street Brewpub, 1600 E. Fifth St.: Pub grub specials from 4-5 p.m. and happy hour ($1 off all draft beer and wine and $1 off all sharing plates) from 4-6 p.m. Call 443-0919.
Shopping
Epic Life Fitness, 118 N. Jefferson St.: Patrons can stop by between 4-8 p.m.to schedule a free assessment and receive 20% off their first package with the purchase of four sessions or more. Call 371-8258.
Clash Dayton, 521 E. Fifth St.: It’s the fifth anniversary for Clash, a boutique shop offering authentic and inspired vintage clothing, plus locally made apparel, jewelry, and accessories. Check out the latest art exhibit while shopping. Call 241-9434.
Salon J Ladner & Spa, 45 S St. Clair St.: Join Salon J Ladner and Spa for Tresses and Dresses and do some easy shopping featuring clothing from LuLaRoe! These beautiful clothing items range from sizes XXS to 3XL. Cash (exact change only) and credit are accepted. Shop from 5:30-7 p.m. Call 220-9441.
Sew Dayton, 261 Wayne Ave.: First Fridays feature the free Stitch n’ Sip event. Bring your own beverage and sewing project and make new sewing friends! The fun starts at 5 p.m. Call 234-7398.
The Downtown Dayton Partnership’s website has a complete list of downtown’s arts and cultural amenities, as well as a dining guide, parking map and much more.
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.
Ohio is popping with history but in Marion, that history tastes delicious with an added touch of butter – or salt – or caramel – or…
Welcome to the big top, literally. Step right up folks, the world’s largest popcorn museum is inside a circus tent inside a historic building.
Before you see anything, you smell it! MM-mmm-mm! Freshly roasted popcorn. Just before you catch yourself drooling, your eyes will turn as wide as saucers when the giant red, white and blue circus tent comes into view.
The main attraction is the world-famous Wyandot Popcorn Museum. It’s the largest on the planet and only one of two in the country. It just so happens that the other one is also in Ohio. Go figure.
The bright and colorful circus tent puts everyone in a festive mood. Then you see these fascinating nickel-plated contraptions that look more like priceless pieces of art. But its art that moves. Careful, the intricate interlinking parts of these unique machines will mesmerize you. So will the craftsmanship.
Imagine steam whistleblowing.
Here you don’t have to imagine it because you’ll hear it – for real. But for safety purposes, the steam whistles on these polished like new relics are now generated by air compressors.
Timeout for a trivia question: What are non-popped kernels called?
Answer: Old Maids.
Okay, back to the story.
This creative and interactive museum features more than 50 popcorn machines – many doubled as peanut roasters (5 or 6 peanut roasting only machines). The collection features a few horse drawn carts, a 1927 Ford Model TT Concession Wagon, 1911 Dunbar Wagon, Cretors 1899 No. 1 Popcorn Cart, 1896 Kingery steam-driven wagon, and 1892 Olson store-type dry popper.
Here’s a side note about that 1911 Dunbar Wagon. The museum founder, George Brown, son of the Wyandot Popcorn Company founder, William “Hoover” Brown, decided to drive over to the Mid-Ohio Raceway one day in the early 1980s. Native Ohioan and famed Hollywood actor, Paul Newman, was there with his race team. George and Paul struck up a conversation about popcorn of all things. George grew up in the business and Paul wanted to launch a line of popcorn for his Newman’s Own brand. But he needed the right supplier. That day he found one. They shook hands and next, the Brown family found themselves in New York’s Central Park with Newman and his business partner Al Hutchner launching their line of jarred popcorn in 1984. George’s wife, Millie, posed for a photograph with Paul Newman with a perfect vintage 1911 Dunbar Wagon as a backdrop. That wagon is in the Wyandot Popcorn Museum today.
The museum teaches all kinds of interesting things about popcorn history and Wyandot Popcorn Company’s part in that. For example, in 1948 an archaeological dig in “Bat Cave”, New Mexico turned up what many believe to be the oldest ears of popcorn ever found, dating well over a thousand years old. Popcorn was originally prepared by Native Americans using a bowl containing sand and placing the bowl over fire. The sand heated the kernels and when they popped, they popped to the top of the sand.
Now let’s fast forward to modern history and the early movie theaters. Movie theater popcorn started when street vendors began setting up in front of movie houses. At first, theater owners chased the vendors away. But when they saw how much moviegoers loved the popped corn, theater owners saw dollar signs and invited the vendors inside. Then they realized they don’t need the vendors, just the machines. So the movie theater snack bar was born. In 1948, Popped Right Corn Company became a subsidiary of Wyandot Popcorn Company to supply theater chains with popped popcorn.
But the Wyandot story and how it contributed to the history of popcorn began during The Great Depression. That’s when William “Hoover” Brown decided to plant 100 acres of popcorn to see how things would go. Well, things went well. And that’s how Wyandot Popcorn Company got its start in 1936. Years later, Golden Crisp and Caramel Corn were named by Ava Brown, “Hoover’s” wife, for the Shirk Candy Company which is still open in Marion, Ohio today.
“Hoover” and Ava’s son, George, gained interest in the popcorn industry, naturally, and in the 1970s, he wanted to write a book about it.
His passion brought him to auctions where he acquired old broken-down popcorn machines and peanut roasters. He then found a superb restorer in Bob Pearson of Kansas to transform the vintage machines to their original condition. They looked brand new again. Other restorers over the years included Roy Arrington in Las Vegas, NV and several of Wyandot’s own restoring experts. And although George never wrote his book, he became a treasure trove of information and thus a reliable source for others who wrote books about the popcorn industry.
George’s private collection grew so big, he decided to open a museum in 1982 at the Wyandot Popcorn Company’s headquarters in Marion. The museum grew more and found new homes for the public to come marvel at the colorful history of popcorn and experience it firsthand. Locations included the Southland Mall. After that, the collection was pieced out to multiple locations like the old COSI (Center of Science & Industry) museum building in Columbus, Ohio to feature displays.
Finally, in 1989, The Wyandot Popcorn Museum found a permanent home at Heritage Hall – the old 1910 Marion post office building – along with the Marion County Historical Society Museum. The Wyandot Popcorn Museum is inside what used as a sizeable mail sorting room in the 1930s which is now transformed by the big top circus tent.
Today Wyandot Popcorn Company in Marion, Ohio creates popcorn for a major brand to private label. Who that company is shall remain a secret.
Not only is Marion, Ohio home to the largest popcorn museum in the world, it hosts the largest popcorn festival in the world. The American Bus Association previously named The Marion Popcorn Festival one of the top-100 events in North America. The festival is always held during the weekend after Labor Day and attracts about a quarter-million people annually.
Wyandot Popcorn Museum is open from 1pm – 4pm on weekends except in January and February and major holidays. It is located at 169 E. Church Street in Marion, Ohio. Admission is $4/adult, $3/senior, $1.50 for school-age kids and free for preschoolers. For more information, call 740-387-4255.
One more thing – everyone leaves the museum with a FREE box of popcorn! Now, get to Marion, Ohio and see what’s poppin’ for you.
By Frank R. Satullo, The OhioTraveler
Allen County Fair in Lima
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Wood County Fair in Bowling Green
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and don’t forget the
OHIO STATE FAIR
in Columbus
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By Rocco Satullo, your tour guide to fun!
All history is local. If you are traveling the modern streets of Rome, look to one side or another and you may see over a railing down to an excavation revealing what the community looked like thousands of years ago. The contrast is such that you lose yourself for a moment in wonder. So too is it – albeit on a smaller scale – when you drive through a small town in America and suddenly there’s a downtown within a downtown, both hundreds of years apart.
With globalization we have learned so much about so many things on a grand scale, we yearn for new discoveries. Adventurous minds have made remarkable finds in the nooks and crannies of history, often unearthing a vein of gold in the form of fascinating stories that capture the imagination at a local level. ….Read More….