June Archives

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Let the OhioTraveler tell you a Lake Erie island story.
You may want to travel right now but can’t.
So sit back and listen to your Tour Guide to Fun.
And we’ll have an adventure, together.

Steubenville and Jefferson County are ready to welcome you to explore history as you take a break from staying safe at home and begin your summer adventures. For those who don’t want to stray too far, a visit to Steubenville, one of the oldest cities in Ohio, offers the opportunity to step back in time and experience life in early America.

Begin at Historic Fort Steuben, a completely reconstructed 18th-century military fort on its original site overlooking the Ohio River. The eight wooden buildings, guardhouse, and palisade – laid out according to maps and letters preserved at the Clemens Library at the University of Michigan – present a glimpse of the skills, creativity, and hardships of the 150 men who inhabited the Fort in 1786-1787. Self-guided tours allow visitors to explore at their own pace, or visitors can arrange in advance to have a knowledgeable tour guide present the stories of the soldiers and surveyors for whom the Fort was a temporary home. An active archaeological dig is a reminder that the area had been occupied by Native American people over 500 years ago and still unearths artifacts from the past two centuries. The Fort Steuben Visitor Center houses an Exhibit Hall with seasonal displays and programs as well as a Museum Shop with books, toys, maps, and souvenirs. Visitors can find travel and tourism information there as well. As with other historic and tourism sites, the Fort and Visitor Center follow strict sanitary protocols to guarantee a safe and pleasant visit.

Adjacent to the Fort is the original log structure, the First Federal Land Office of the Northwest Territory, established in 1800. This historic building has a tale of its own to tell as it was hidden and then uncovered and then moved at least five times! It is now open and displayed as a 19^th century home office where the registrar sold and documented deeds to the new land in Ohio open to settlement.

Located on the beautiful Ohio River, the city of Steubenville quickly grew around the site of the original fort and became an industrial giant in the 20^th century. The history of the city and its citizens are portrayed in larger-than-life murals displayed on buildings throughout the downtown and central shopping districts. From the earliest days of horse-pulled fire engines to the celebration of modern heroes such as the Tuskegee Airmen, the City of Murals allows viewers to enjoy art while easily social-distancing. Brochures and information on the murals can be obtained at the Fort Steuben Visitor Center.

Historic North Fourth Street showcases the stately homes of those early industrialists as well as unique shops and eateries that can be found on a stroll along the avenue. The downtown area is home to more than a dozen historic churches that boast rich stained-glass windows and stunning architecture.

More history can be found driving through Jefferson County and visiting Historic Mount Pleasant, a major hub for the Underground Railroad and home of important abolitionists of the 19^th century. The Historical Society of Mount Pleasant owns six historic buildings, each one a museum in itself. Additionally, the Ohio Yearly Meeting House – an amazing Quaker structure –  is included in their tours. At this time, tours and buildings are open by appointment only, however, there is a complimentary walking tour available on Trover.com.

After taking a walk through history, try a walk on one of the trails in Jefferson County. Check out the Birding Trail at Friendship Park or the Beatty Park Trail in Steubenville.

As Ohio recovers from Covid19, there will be many other sites and events where travelers can be educated, refreshed, and entertained all within a few hours’ drive. Check the website www.visitsteubenville.com or the Facebook page to find up-to-date information. In the meantime, the folks here in Jefferson County wish you to stay safe and enjoy the summer!

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Sidney’s Tawawa Park 

Located on I-75 just 30 miles north of Dayton, Ohio you will find a wonderful variety of outdoor recreation sure to satisfy every travel preference. Among the best is Sidney’s Tawawa Park. The park itself consists of 220 wooded acres, two picturesque lakes, and a meandering creek. Tawawa Park was deeded to the City of Sidney in 1956, but its origins trace back much, much further.

After the “Big Four” Railroad was relocated in the early 1920s the abandoned railroad bed became a popular hiking trail, especially to the lake to fish and to visit Big Rock. Walking along the canal towpath was a favorite pastime in the spring and fall of the year. Today, Tawawa Park continues as a tranquil respite and features amenities found only in the country’s premier civic parklands.

Bicycling and hiking enthusiasts are sure to enjoy the miles of trails stretching through densely wooden areas, along streams, and scenic overlooks. Old-growth trees and wildflowers adorn the landscape. Be sure to pack a picnic lunch and don’t forget your camera. You’re sure to find an abundance of photo ops while on your Tawawa adventure.

For those who enjoy fishing, Tawawa Park features two lakes and a stream.  The lakes are freshly stocked annually and host a variety of species that are always fun to catch. Fishing licenses are required and all fishing in the lakes and streams is from the bank.

Have you heard of Big Rock? Arguably Tawawa’s most iconic natural feature, Big Rock is twelve feet high at its tallest point and weighs 103 tons. According to geologists, the granite boulder came to what would become Sidney about 15,000 years ago. It was carried by glacial ice from its native land estimated to be 700 miles to the northeast. Big Rock is a must-see and a great place to rest for a bit before your exploration continues.

The Ross Bridge is yet another not-to-be-missed photo stop at Tawawa Park. The bridge closely resembles several covered bridges constructed in Central Ohio by pioneer bridge designer and builder, Rueben L. Partridge (1823 to 1900).

For the kids, you will find ample playground equipment, soccer and baseball fields, and shallow creeks to wade when the water levels are safe to do so. Constructed just last year, the all-inclusive play area is an ideal spot to spend some time while the kids take turns on the toys there.

A number of attractive shelter houses with tables are also on the property for picnics, family reunions, and friendly get-togethers. For those wanting to plan ahead, these ideal gathering sites can be reserved in advance at no charge.

Throughout the year special events are organized at the park that includes a popular Cruise-In car show in June and Civil War Reenactment in September.  Those interested in learning more about these and the other organized events at Tawawa Park are encouraged to view the Sidney Visitors Bureau events calendar for specific dates and times.

Downtown Sidney is an easy bike ride or a short walk from the park and offers a nice variety of restaurants, bistros, and charming shops. Craft beer aplenty paired with everything from juicy burgers to delicious entrees, the eateries in downtown Sidney are sure to satisfy and will have you excitedly planning your next visit while enjoying your meal.

Tawawa Park is good for the soul.  Travelers from near and far rate Tawawa Park at nearly five stars on Trip Advisor. Says one guest, “Tawawa is, hands down, one of the most amazing city parks I’ve been to. A true hidden gem is little old Sidney, Ohio. Love to run, bike, and hike here. There’s even a small (but obscure) mountain bike trail! Lots of playgrounds for kids, the hiking trails transport you to what feels like another state, lots of places to picnic or have a kid’s birthday party or family reunion. If you come, be sure to explore! You’ll be amazed!”

Stretch your legs. Get back to nature. Take in the fresh air. Tawawa Park’s natural beauty and tranquility will rejuvenate your spirit.

For every recreation interest, the possibilities are many in Sidney. Visitors can select from 8 carefully prepared travel itineraries or build their own from a long list of things to see and do. Additional information about the many fine attractions in west-central Ohio can be found on the website of the Sidney Visitors Bureau at www.VisitSidneyShelby.com.

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Come visit Marion, Ohio

An old-fashioned root beer stand with carhops, a multi-generation apple orchard, the home of a president, a cozy café in an historic downtown. These are the things that make memories.

Come visit us in Marion and find out why we say you will “Find Your Place at Your Pace.” Enjoy some nightlife at one of our local gastro pubs or live entertainment on the historic stage at the Palace Theatre. Tour the newly restored home of our 29^th President. Then take in the sights and smells of the past at the country’s largest popcorn museum.

Still hungry? Pick up a copy of our Eaterarian Trail guide to discover our famous and not-so-famous unique eateries. Or perhaps you would like to hit the links for a round of golf with friends, or maybe do some shopping downtown to pick up a unique gift crafted by our local artisans.

The outdoors more your style? The Marion Tallgrass Trail is waiting with 12 miles of paved enjoyment through prairie, woods, and fields, or you can get your nature on at Big Island Wildlife Area to watch some birds, as well as its other residents.

Throw in some great events like the Blues & BBQ Festival, Marion Popcorn Festival, and the Wings & Wheels vintage plane/auto show and you just might have to come back for a second weekend.

Whatever your idea of a perfect weekend getaway, you’ll find it in Marion where the people are friendly, the traffic is nonexistent, and the pace is comfortable and relaxing.

Find your place, at your pace, in Marion! VisitMarionOhio.com.

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Try Geocaching along the Scarr Loop Trail, a moderate, 2-mile hiking trail. But please practice your social distancing to be courteous to others on the trail.  

Geocaching is defined as “a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location,” according to the official website (www.geocaching.com).

To take part in this treasure hunt, users just need a GPS-enabled device (like any SmartPhone)! There is a specific app to download called, you guessed it, Geocaching® (Anything you need to know about Geocaching is at www.geocaching.com). From there, users create a free account and start caching. There are millions of geocaches all over the world! Geocachers simply enter in their zip code to begin finding caches near them. Anyone can make one and publish it to the app for others to find! Each location is associated with longitude and latitude coordinates to enter into the app and follow along. At each cache site, there will be a container with some small treasure, placed there by the creator in a (preferably) waterproof container. Other geocachers may take it and replace it with something of their own! Sometimes there is a bad apple that will take the cache without leaving something. Don’t be that guy.

With that said, the Geocaching community is one to be a part of! When a new trail launches, geocachers are notified and a reception is held near the trail site. Geocachers come from all over the world to find new caches. Once a trail is complete, collectible geocoins can be earned! This is beneficial for the cachers, the communities, and tourism in general! Generally, Geocachers don’t congregate; it is very much an individual/small group activity – ideal for this time of social distancing.

The Coshocton Crow Geotrail caches are updated and managed frequently. Explore Coshocton County when you escape to the outdoors. Geotrails are a fun activity and good exercise.

Click here to download/print the Coshocton Crow Geotrail Passport (it lists all of the coordinates users will need!).

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In celebration of the variety of wineries and breweries that have sprung up throughout Delaware County in recent years, Destination Delaware County Ohio has unveiled their new Vine & Bine Trail. The trail, a collaboration of 10 local wine and ale makers, takes visitors on a trip across the county and allows them to sample some of the best locally-produced wine and beer in the region.

“Delaware County has some of the finest wines and craft beers in Ohio, and the Vine & Bine Trail is a terrific way to recognize and celebrate the county’s booming wineries and breweries,” said Joan Ayscue, communications assistant for Destination Delaware County Ohio. “Spanning from downtown Delaware to Powell, this trail is an easy way to sample these innovative wines and ales, while also exploring the region.”

The trail, cleverly named after the stems that grow a wine’s grapes and a beer’s hops, brings awareness to the robust wine and beer scene the county has developed. It also recognizes the local ingredients used to make several of the region’s award-winning beverages.

“Many of the wineries and breweries use local ingredients in their winemaking and brewing processes,” Ayscue added. “The impact of these businesses goes beyond the patrons who frequent these establishments. It truly is a county-wide collaborative effort between the vintners/brewers and the farmers.”

Delaware County has four wineries and six breweries in the region that boast award-winning wine and craft ales. Wines on the trail range from full-bodied reds, to fruity whites, to dessert wines and more. Some of the different beers featured on the trail include names like: Pandora’s Juice Box; Powell! Right in the Kisser; Whetstone Lager; Beta Flash New England IPA; Wildcat Sally (Saison Farmhouse Ale); and Smelly Pirate (Rum Raisin Belgian Quad).

“When people think of craft wine and beer, they may not initially think of Delaware County,” Ayscue said. “However, we have some of the best wineries and breweries in the Midwest here. This trail is a fantastic way to position Delaware County as a leader in the craft beverage scene, and attract wine and beer enthusiasts to the area.”

To learn more about the Vine & Bine Trail or view a detailed map of the trail, visit https://www.visitdelohio.com/. Visitors of the trail also are encouraged to share their experiences on social media and use the hashtags #visitdelohio and #vineandbinedelco.

Troy Main Street and its partners have championed a variety of extraordinary art exhibits to the downtown Troy area. It all started with a vision of curating an exhibit of life-size sculptures by Seward Johnson. From this, Sculptures on the Square was formed, and its mission continues as it introduces outdoor art to residents and visitors. Beginning June 14, 2019, you can witness the excitement for yourself.

As visitors begin their journey around Troy’s downtown area, they will come upon kids playing Frisbee or a couple drinking coffee. They will venture upon someone enjoying the outdoors while reading a book or they may see a lovely woman carrying a picnic basket. But they’re not real. Instead…they’re beautiful sculptures created by a master sculptor, Seward Johnson. These expressions of reality are easy to imagine, the sculptures are so lifelike.

The Sculptures on the Square committee, led by Troy Main Street, along with many enthusiastic committee members, welcomes Seward Johnson’s “Celebrating the Familiar”. Back by popular demand, these incredible works of art depict life-like people performing day-to-day activities. Two additional sculptures will be from Seward Johnson’s “Beyond the Frame” series. These finely detailed vignettes allow visitors to step into the painting and stroll amid the life scale bronze figures, becoming part of the scene. And finally, we will be introduced to a few of his “Icons Revisited”. In this series, Johnson explores what makes an image stick with us; become something more than its one moment in time. As they adorn the downtown streets as if frozen in dance, you may find the sculptures are both lyrical and fluid and can be perceived as engaged with those who visit.

A more local spin to this exhibit will include a series of additional public art displays and interactive workshops and activities for folks, young and old. Many of these works of art will be displayed in businesses throughout the summer. This exciting addition has been made possible by Premier Health/Upper Valley Medical Center.

The twenty-one selected sculptures will be available for public viewing on June 14^th and will be unveiled at a public opening on Prouty Plaza. Live music will follow and will surely kick off this monumental three-month celebration of the arts in downtown Troy. The Sculptures on the Square event has been made possible by a generous grant from the Troy Foundation and the “Beyond the Frame” series is sponsored by Kettering Health Network.

Troy Main Street, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 organization. The Mission of the organization is to create a charming, prosperous, and interactive downtown Troy through strong economic development, planned historic preservation, continued enhancements, and exceptional programming. For more information, visit troymainstreet.org.

Excerpt from a past edition of OhioTraveler

We know, nobody NEEDS a new reason to enjoy the amazing activities and summer fun at Ohio’s Lake Erie Shores & Islands! But whether you’re a regular visitor or a newbie just learning the ropes of all the fun there is to be had, everyone enjoys learning about the exciting, new things available.

Here are just a few of the new attractions offered this year:

Monster Jam® Thunder Alley roars into Cedar Point this summer, ONLY through June 30! Get up close, sit in, and even ride in some of your favorite Monster Jam trucks at this all-new, limitedime experience. Monster Jam Thunder Alley includes four adrenaline-charged experiences included with park admission. Forbidden Frontier on Adventure Island also makes its debut at the park. The new attraction is described as an interactive experience, where you are challenged both mentally and physically to solve the mystery surrounding the Forbidden Frontier. It is said every experience has a different ending, determined by the player and the secrets unlocked.

Skydive Put-in-Bay offers a unique new way to experience island thrills. Tandem jumps are available with island-based air service, Island Air Taxi, in conjunction with instructor JR Piosek, with over 20 years of experience and more than 19,000 jumps. Jumps include hand cam video to document your one-of-a-kind adventure.

The Lake Erie Shores & Islands Cheers Trail is a fun way to explore area wineries, breweries, and distilleries. With 18 locations to discover, this new trail offers a reward to those who visit five locations. Pick up a brochure at one of the Lake Erie Shores & Islands welcome centers, get stickers when you make a qualifying purchase at participating locations, and return your trail map with five stickers to receive a free gift. Complete the entire trail, and you can be entered to win a future getaway!

The Marketplace at the Cooke is a new indoor retail and restaurant space in downtown Sandusky, part of a $6 million renovation of the iconic Cooke Building at the corner of Columbus Ave. and Market St. Businesses within the marketplace include a Sandusky Children’s Museum, Noble Axes axe-throwing, Fancy Me Boutique, Bake Erie specialty sweets, Doughin’ Crazy edible cookie dough and ice cream, Derrick Jr’s barbecue and soul food, and Sandusky Bell and Deli. The marketplace will also host pop-up-shops from various local artisans.

Port Clinton offers a brand new, four-story Fairfield Inn and Suites, which recently opened at a beautiful waterfront location. The new 85-room hotel features lakeside views and large suites along with Marriott Hotel amenities such as fast Wi-Fi, continental breakfast, fitness center, and indoor pool.

New this year at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions are two escape room attractions for families. Families will love these new “Out of This World” escape rooms. The adventures are perfect for all experience levels. Check out this two-part mission and book the Desert of Time where you’ll be transported into space, then finish out your journey as you Escape from Planet Obscura on a quest back to planet Earth.

Lakeside Chautauqua dedicated to nurturing mind, body, and spirit. Lago Coastal Café The brand-new Pickleball Center opens this summer and the Lakeside Chautauqua organization recently introduced a new app which offers program and schedule information on mobile devices. The Lakeside Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of new music director and conductor Daniel Meyer, will add a Pops concert and two new matinee youth concerts to its schedule.

Erie Shore Wave Runners is now open at Captain’s Corner Marina in Vermilion. In addition to wave runner rentals, the business offers guided tours through the Vermilion Lagoons, Vermilion River, and the nearby coastline via personal watercraft.

These are just a few of the new and notable attractions coming online this summer. Discover more at https://www.shoresandislands.com/. What will you add to your summer Shores & Islands bucket list?

Excerpt from a past edition of OhioTraveler

At Gervasi Vineyard

The Casa at Gervasi Vineyard (“casa” translates to the word “house” in Italian) is a single-story 18,000 sq. ft. hotel that houses 24 luxury individual suites. The new hotel is located behind the destination’s new distillery, The Still House, on the southwest quadrant of the 55-acre estate adjacent to the south vineyard.

The structure complements the Tuscan paradise with the same mission décor including off-white stucco with a dark roof, wood accents and wrought iron. Wall niches and Italian tile inlays adorn both the interior and exterior of the guest rooms. Italian tile floors include wood accents; rustic beams and wood ceiling details crown the Tuscan-inspired look. The hotel features a grand entrance lobby with spectacular details offering a shared social space for guests. In addition, beautifully decorated side-lobbies and niches are offered as a cozy hideaway.

“We are proud to have grown the Gervasi brand and continue to build Gervasi Village from our Italian heritage”, said Ted Swaldo, Proprietor, GV Destinations. “The Tuscan-mission style structure of the new boutique hotel wraps around a beautiful European-landscaped courtyard to complement the Italian landscape design of Gervasi Vineyard, but is unique in its own way.”

Each guest suite features a beautiful covered veranda with a view and access to a private courtyard and pond featuring lush gardens. Inside, the lavish suites offer a tastefully styled 375 sq. ft. space featuring high-end amenities including a luxury king-sized bed, fireplace, two club chairs, a walk-up bar with glassware for both wine and spirits, heated tile floors, spacious bathroom with walk-in shower and heated towel bars, in-room refrigerator offering select beverages, Keurig brewing system with Gervasi Caffé K-cups, robe and slippers, as well as other deluxe amenities.

Overnight guests are offered a selection of five Italian-style gourmet continental breakfasts delivered to their rooms each morning. Deluxe in-room spa services are available for overnight guests including manicures, pedicures, facials, individual and couples massages, and in-room yoga with advance request. Gervasi wines, spirits, specialty foods, and flowers may also be ordered for delivery to guest suites.

“Our exciting nine year journey of the expansion culminates with the opening of our high end boutique hotel. This spectacular addition to Gervasi Vineyard really solidifies us a unique and upscale destination resort, and is the capstone to our 55-acre estate. We couldn’t be more proud and excited to share it with our community and the region,” said Scott Swaldo, General Manager, GV Destinations.

The hotel features an exercise room and laundry facilities for all guests that stay overnight on the property. The destination resort now offers a total of 48 luxury suites between The Casa and The Villas at Gervasi Vineyard. In addition, The Farmhouse (the original residence on the property, circa 1820) also offers accommodations for up to eight guests in four bedrooms, complete with a modern kitchen, large dining room and quaint wrap-around porch facing the spring-fed lake. 

Gervasi Vineyard is a unique Tuscan-inspired, upscale destination winery resort featuring award-winning wines, distilled spirits, craft beer, and fabulous cuisine. The 55-acre estate offers breathtaking views of a spring-fed lake, vineyards and picturesque landscaping. Gervasi offers an exceptional wine portfolio featuring over 30 varietals with a focus on classical European varieties and includes three premier estate-grown North American hybrids.

Dine in three distinct restaurants, featuring exceptional house made cuisine made with only the freshest ingredients. The Italian Bistro, located in an historic barn, features rustic upscale dining. The Crush House Wine Bar & Eatery offers a casual setting featuring a contemporary flair. The seasonal outdoor venue, The Piazza patio, features traditional, yet casual menu for dining al fresco by the lake. The new distillery, The Still House features craft cocktails in a lounge-like setting, and serves as a coffeehouse by day.

Boutique shopping is offered in the Marketplace Gift Shop and features Gervasi Wines, Gervasi Spirits, imported Italian oils, specialty items, jewelry and collectibles. Luxury accommodations featuring 48 suites in The Villas and the new Casa boutique hotel offer high end amenities.

Special events include complimentary winery and distillery tours, wine and food pairings, seasonal vineyard tours, Cucina cooking classes, live music, educational classes, festivals and more.

Gervasi Vineyard is Gervasi Vineyard is rated by AAA as a Four-Diamond property for accommodations. It’s located at 1700 55th Street NE in Canton, Ohio. For more information about Gervasi Vineyard and GV Destinations, visit www.gervasivineyard.com.

The McKinley Presidential Library & Museum’s new Keller Gallery exhibition Stark County Food: From Early Farming to Modern Meals will open on June 13, 2019 at 6pm with a free opening reception featuring food from Canton restaurants.  The exhibition is based on the themes in Kim Kenney and Barb Abbott’s new book of the same name, which explores what Stark County residents have eaten over the past 200 years.  The exhibition is sponsored by the Stark County Farm Bureau.

Stark County Food is part of Project EAT!, a countywide celebration of all things food.  Partners across the community have joined together to bring Stark County residents a full schedule of food-related events and programs in 2019.  From June 22 through July 21, three area museums will have food-themed exhibitions on view.  The Canton Museum of Art’s exhibition Food for Thought, featuring food-themed artwork from their permanent collection, is on view now through July 21.  A Heritage of Harvest:  The Industry of Agriculture in Western Stark County opens at the Massillon Museum on June 22.

There’s also a Foodie Bus Tour on Friday June 28 from 8:15am – 3pm.  The trip includes breakfast at the Museum catered by Deli Ohio, a visit to a working dairy farm, and an afternoon Canton Food Tour, featuring a series of small plates at several of Canton’s finest restaurants. There will be walking and standing involved so guests should dress accordingly. The cost is $80 for museum members, $85 for non-members.  RESERVATION DEADLINE IS JUNE 7. Pre-paid reservations required, and space is limited. Tickets may be purchased at www.mckinleymuseum.org or call Chris at 330-455-7043.

Stark County Food begins with a look at farming in the region, which includes a large cash register that was used at Harry Ink’s Aplink Orchard in the early 20^th century.  Other sections include grocery stores, wholesale food companies, restaurants, cookbooks, rationing, ethnic influences, bakeries, dairies, legacy families, community organizations, and culinary tourism.  A special section will feature the evolution of kitchen appliances over time, including an early refrigerator, an apartment-sized electric stove, and a microwave with so much chrome, it rivals a 1950s automobile.

“This exhibition has been so much fun to put together,” said Kim Kenney, executive director of the Museum and curator of this exhibition.  “We searched our permanent collection for artifacts that demonstrate the ways in which we have eaten over time.  We have everything from cast iron pans to refrigerators, and everything in between.”

The exhibition includes video clips from the Project EAT! Oral History Project, based on interviews that were conducted in 2017 and 2018 by Carmella Cadusale, an AmeriCorps volunteer.  Intern Rose Stull reviewed many hours of interviews in order to find the best clips to share in the exhibition.

“There are five people featured in the video,” said Kenney.  “They share their own memories of what their families cooked when they were little, and what restaurants and grocery stores they remember.  Ernie Schott from Taggart’s explains how the famous Bittner was invented, too.  The clips we have selected provide an interesting snapshot of our community’s foodways over time.”

The exhibition includes a section of carefully curated nutrition handouts sponsored by Canton Food Tours.  Topics include Be a Healthy Role Model, How to Read the Nutrition Label, Kid Friendly Fruits and Veggies, and Make Better Food Choices.

There is also a panel that highlights the organizations who are fighting food insecurity in Stark County.  “An estimated 15.3% of Stark County’s population and 23.8% of children are food insecure,” said Kenney.  “We wanted the exhibition to include that information, to inspire our visitors to donate food, money, or their time to these organizations.  The need continues to increase.  The number of people seeking food assistance from the Stark County Hunger Task Force has swelled from 3000 people per month in 1981 to 30,000 people per month in 2017.  We have invited leaders from these organizations to speak about their work before many of our Project EAT! programs.  We are also running a series of drives for food, gardening tools, and pots and pans throughout the exhibition’s run to benefit food pantries and StarkFresh.  Visitors will receive $1 off admission during each of the drives.”

Stark County Food also includes a binder featuring more than 75 reproduction menus from local restaurants and banquets.  The ephemeral nature of menus means that the collection is by no means complete.  “You aren’t supposed to take the menu home with you when you eat out,” said Kenney.  “But the program from a special event, that happens to include the evening’s menu, was designed as a keepsake.” As a result, the Museum’s archival collection includes many more banquet menus than restaurant menus.

The Museum is approaching the collection of visitor responses a bit differently for this exhibition. “Instead of the traditional guest book, we have purchased a 1950s metal kitchen table and chairs,” said Kenney.  “We invite our visitors to have a seat at our table to record their own food memories, which can be posted on a large bulletin board near the table.  There are also coloring and activity sheets for kids.”

“One of my favorite parts of the exhibition is a handout I made that includes strange recipes from old Stark County cookbooks,” said Kenney.  “Recipes include Hot Lettuce Sandwiches, Frozen Tomato Salad, Pork Cake, and Banana Soup.  We want to encourage our visitors to try some of the recipes at home and tag us on social media for a chance to win a copy of my new book with co-author Barb Abbott Stark County Food:  From Early Farming to Modern Meals.”

Stark County Food will be on view through January 5, 2020.

The McKinley Presidential Library & Museum is located at 800 McKinley Monument Dr. NW in Canton, Ohio.  The Keller Gallery is the Museum’s temporary exhibition space and features a variety of topics each year.  The Museum also includes the McKinley National Memorial, McKinley Gallery, Street of Shops, The Stark County Story, Discover World, and the Hoover-Price Planetarium.  The Museum is open Monday – Saturday from 9am – 4pm and Sunday from 2-4pm.

Excerpt from a past edition of OhioTraveler

The Threat Posed

Perpetually hungry, loves sleeping, and hates Monday.

I just described a popular cartoon cat named Garfield, but you surely aren’t alone if you related to that description a bit more than you wanted to. It’s this relatability that sprung Garfield into fame in 1978 and allows him to remain a household name over 40 years later.

One of his most universally relatable traits is the last one: His hatred of Monday. This is a commonly shared sentiment, as for most people it symbolizes our fleeting 48 hours of freedom halting to a grim end.

However, what may seem like a harmless, relatable joke in a cat comic actually points to an increasingly prevalent societal issue; something I like to call The Garfield Effect. This refers to the steady decline of the weekend as we know it, as it creeps closer and closer to oblivion.

That may sound dramatic, and that’s because it is. In theory, a two day break should rejuvenate us, making us feel more refreshed and ready than ever to work; yet most people feel just the opposite. This is due to The Garfield Effect. Rather than use the weekend as it was designed—for relaxation and leisure—people frequently use it to catch up on work, leaving them tired and ill-equipped to deal with the full work week ahead. This is why Garfield is far from alone when he says “I hate Monday.”

Fully understanding this epidemic first requires an understanding of its history, which actually begins long before the more recent conception of the weekend.

The Ancient Work Day

In ancient civilizations, including those of the Mayans and the Hopi, time was perceived as cyclical rather than linear, operating as a kind of wheel. This was a reflection of the world that the ancients observed around them, bound by cycles of predictable patterns. Accordingly, work also followed this natural ebb and flow of time. Tasks were correlated with the organic cycles that defined them: Farmers worked in accordance with the seasons, and fishermen in accordance with the tides.

This approach to work persisted for a long time. Contrary to popular belief, medieval peasants experienced a plethora of free time compared to the modern worker. For them, the day began at dawn, ended at dusk, and included plenty of breaks. It wasn’t until the 18th century, just over 200 years ago, that this changed.

The First Shift

A number of factors caused this shift, most of which revolved around the Industrial Revolution. Tasks were no longer correlated to natural events, but rather to the artificially contrived “work day.” Time was something to be exploited by corporate interests, and accordingly, this is when the phrase “time is money” accelerated in its usage (which can be seen using Google Ngram Viewer).

This new approach inevitably caused issues, and eventually spiraled into a working landscape that included grueling hours and harsh conditions. People worked between 14 and 16 hours per day for six days a week. Factories were full of dust and smoke. Deformities and diseases developed in workers, especially children. Accidents were frequent. It was far from ideal.

The Birth of the Weekend

This ghastly landscape created a dire need for protection of workers’ rights, which prompted the labor movement. In 1886, on what became known as May Day, hundreds of thousands of workers went on strike in demand of an eight hour work day. This was the first of many efforts to win this right. There was still a long fight ahead.

It wasn’t until 1926, when Henry Ford adopted a five-day work week, that this less aggressive approach was given much thought. Ford’s argument was that people with more free time would require more transportation, and hence, would buy more cars. Finally, in 1938, the Fair Labor Standards Act was signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, which cemented the 40-hour, 5-day work week. The weekend had been born.

The Second Shift

Not long after this pivotal policy was enacted, another shift began to occur. This one revolved around the advent of modern technology; most notably, the internet.

Artificial light had already made it easy to stay up past dark and wake up before light, but devices such as computers and smartphones caused an even greater disturbance in our general working hours. People are now constantly “on the clock,” expected to keep up with work demands at every hour of the day, every day of the week. Being perpetually plugged-in leaves workers feeling anxious and stressed, inhibiting their ability to properly wind down.

The Emergence of The Garfield Effect

Weekends were introduced partially as a way of protecting leisure, which is a necessary ingredient in the recipe for productivity. Without this, the risk for eventual job burnout increases drastically.

Despite the obvious benefits of leisure, people are opting for a more work-oriented weekend, with a state of constant “busy-ness” becoming a sort of status symbol. Perceived success is now—incorrectly—associated with how busy someone is.

This is getting in the way of people enjoying the weekend as it should be enjoyed, and according to the American Time Use Survey conducted by the U.S. Census Bureau, people now spend less than one hour socializing on the weekend. Furthermore, According to a global Harris Poll, the United States reported the longest hours second only to Mexico. These reports may not even include tasks such as checking email or going overtime to meet a deadline.

As a result, the “typical” 40 hour work week is better described as “atypical.” An outlier. The weekend as we know it is disappearing, and we’re letting it.

A Call to Action

The fight for the weekend took centuries to win, so reclaim our leisure and once again fill our parks with good company and conversation. Battle against The Garfield Effect, and plan a picnic!

By Cara Satullo

A Trendy Entertainment District 

One of the most charming downtown shopping and dining destinations, Historic Downtown Delaware attracts visitors from many states and countries beyond Ohio. Visitors signing the guest book in Destination Delaware County Ohio’s welcome center came from Ohio and 16 other states. The center also welcomed visitors from Argentina, Australia, Cameroon, Canada, Ecuador, England, Finland, France, India, Italy, Japan, The Netherlands, Switzerland, and Uganda. “Love it here, friendly, full of charm, and so wonderful,” are words most used to describe their Delaware experience.

The numerous non-chain restaurants make Downtown Delaware a fun eating adventure. A popular and diverse dining destination, food options include American, Italian, Mexican, Asian, Cajun, BBQ, and Greek. Fine dining, giant juicy burgers, small plates, chicken and waffles, hand-dipped milkshakes, made-from-scratch pizza and craft brews and wines are just a sample of what visitors like most about eating downtown. Coffee shops, outdoor cafes, mouth-watering chocolates, frozen custard, delicious baked goods, fresh made gelato and ice cream, gourmet cheeses, and olive oils and vinegars on tap are also part of the downtown Delaware foodie experience.

Collectors enjoy browsing for antiques and collectibles along Sandusky Street. Vintage items are also abundant in the shops and bring back bygone days for many as they browse for antique and nostalgic toys and treasures. Other popular boutiques offer children’s books, chalk-painted furniture and home décor, vinyl records, pottery painting, consignment clothing, and unique gift items.

Although Downtown Delaware is a family-friendly environment, it is also a place to enjoy award-winning brews. Two Micro Breweries and other establishments offering a variety of craft brews on tap enhance the experience. And, a beautiful new winery featuring hand-crafted wines is also a draw.

Located just north of Columbus, Ohio’s capital city, those who visit Delaware do not have to fight big city traffic to be inspired by the arts. Delaware is home to the highly-esteemed Central Ohio Symphony. The Symphony offers season tickets and performs at least five outstanding concerts each year, including a free Independence Day concert on the lawn at Ohio Wesleyan University, which is followed by fireworks.

One of the premier liberal arts colleges in the country, Ohio Wesleyan offers live music, theater and dance performances. The University’s Richard M. Ross Art Museum, Delaware Cultural Arts Center (AKA the Arts Castle), and Gallery 22 are all unique places to enjoy visual art exhibits. And, the weekend following Mother’s Day, over 150 venders fill the downtown streets for the annual Delaware Arts Festival.

Fun events in Historic Downtown Delaware also include Main Street Delaware’s Frist Fridays. The first Friday of each month draws big crowds downtown to shop, dine, participate in themed activities, and go to the movies at the Historic 1916 Strand Theatre. Appreciating local farm-to-table opportunities, downtown farmers’ markets take place Wednesday afternoons and Saturday mornings, May through October.

The Internationally renowned Little Brown Jug Grand Circuit harness race takes place each September during the Delaware County Fair. A week prior to the Fair, the All-Horse Parade, one of the largest non-motorized parades east of the Mississippi, clip clops through Historic Downtown Delaware. And, it would be remiss not to mention the annual classic car show that completely fills four downtown blocks each summer.

Delaware also offers a variety of places to golf, hike, bike, explore, and play in the water. During travel season, many people coming to Delaware also come to play outdoors.

Check out the Destination Delaware County Ohio website when planning an adventure in Delaware.

History, Art, Music, Cuisine and More – Only Steps Away

Located just 35 miles southwest of Cleveland and 11 miles from Lake Erie, Oberlin is the perfect place for day-trippers and travelers who like to explore and enjoy interesting sights, tastes, and sounds. With a lively downtown, captivating history, and picturesque landscape it is no surprise that this small community of 8,000 was named a Distinctive Destination by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.  Whether you are seeking a refreshing weekend away, visiting friends and family, or checking out Oberlin College and Conservatory, Oberlin has something for you.

History lovers will enjoy learning about Oberlin’s nationally-significant history by touring three beautifully preserved buildings at the Oberlin Heritage Center or signing up for a themed history walk through downtown neighborhoods. Hear stories about the first women in the nation to attend college and the assumptions they had to prove false. Ponder whether you could follow the same rules as the earliest settlers. (No tea or coffee?!) Listen to powerful stories about Oberlin’s national impact on the anti-slavery movement and people who traveled through Oberlin on their journey to freedom. Guests can also explore at their own pace through a variety of self-guided tours and by visiting dozens of historic monuments and markers located throughout the city, honoring scientists, Tuskegee Airmen, freedom seekers, historic trail blazers, and more.

Stretch your legs and spend time wandering Oberlin’s downtown and the Oberlin College campus to see architectural gems by notable designers like Cass Gilbert, Minoru Yamasaki, and Wallace Harrison. Immerse yourself among ancient artifacts and world-class art by masters such as Monet, Matisse, Picasso, Oldenburg, and Calder in the Allen Memorial Art Museum, Oberlin College’s free art museum. The art museum also maintains and offers tours of the Weltzheimer/Johnson House, a Usonian house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and located just over a mile from downtown.

Those ready for rest and a recharge can choose from a variety of coffee houses, bakeries, sandwich shops, ice cream parlors, cafés, and restaurants, several of which serve locally sourced foods. Stop in at unique shops to browse through antiques, beads, jewelry, art supplies, books, gifts, art, hardware, vintage clothing, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. If it gets too hot outside, step into the cool air conditioning of the historic Apollo Theatre and watch a new release on the big screen (at little expense). Beyond the town center are reservoirs and parks to traverse, a rail-trail bike path, historic Westwood Cemetery, Splash Zone Metro Park, and canopy tours at Common Ground retreat and renewal center.

Those who crave a more festive atmosphere should watch community and college calendars for events like the annual Juneteenth Celebration (June 16), Chalk Walk (June 23; pictured above), Family Fun Fair and Car Show (August 4), outdoor summer concert series, Oberlin Summer Theater Festival, and more world-class musical and theatrical performances year-round. When it’s time to retire for the night, Oberlin offers a variety of accommodations, including the downtown Hotel at Oberlin and numerous Bed and Breakfast hosts.

The Oberlin Heritage Center is a great place to start your visit to Oberlin, learn more about the history of this spirited community, and pick up maps, information, and calendars. The parking lot of the Heritage Center is located at 20 West Vine Street and OHC is open year-round, Tuesday through Saturday, from 10:00 to 3:00 with extended hours during special event weekends.

For more information, visit www.oberlinheritagecenter.org or call 440-774-1700

& Jefferson County!

Gas prices may be rising, but you can save money and mileage by staying close to home in eastern Ohio where you will be surprised by the many attractions, events and activities in and near Steubenville!

One of the oldest cities in Ohio, Steubenville boasts historic churches, a frontier fort, 22 larger-than life murals depicting the area’s heritage and the Ohio River Scenic Byway Visitor Center.

Be sure to plan a visit in June – the month of community festivities. Beginning June 1^st, First Fridays on Fourth is an evening street fair featuring food trucks, breweries, live music, artisans and local performers. Every First Friday through November, North Fourth Street is closed from 7-10pm to offer a celebration of culture and the arts.

Mark your calendar for Ohio Valley Frontier Days on June 2 & 3 when Historic Fort Steuben swarms with soldier, settler, surveyor and Native American reenactors who vividly bring the early American frontier to life. Music, games, dance, crafts and food add to the fun. Enjoy music by Ohio Artist of the Year Steve Free, try your hand at the Tomahawk Toss, visit the archaeology dig, sit inside a tipi or let your little ones take a pony ride. Located on its original site overlooking the Ohio River, Historic Fort Steuben is a reconstructed 18^th century military fort with displays and artifacts in all its eight buildings. The adjacent First Federal Land Office is also open for tours as an example of a 19^th century home office. The fort is open daily through October. Find more details about the Fort and its events at www.oldfortsteuben.com.

From June 12 to 15, the city celebrates all things Greek at the annual Holy Trinity Greek Food Festival on S. 4^th Street. Don’t let the title fool you – there’s more than food at this festival. Music, dancing, tours of the church and an outdoor Taverna add to the delicious treats offered here. Take a stroll through downtown Steubenville to visit the unique shops: Adam’s Antiques, the Antique Warehouse, Drosselmeyer’s Nutcracker Shoppe, Steubenville Popcorn Company, Leonardo’s Coffee Shop and Bookmarx Bookstore.

Steubenville is the hometown of iconic crooner Dean Martin and his life and music is remembered every year at the Dean Martin Festival at the Spot Bar (June 14-16) culminating in the Dean Martin Hometown Celebration on North 4^th Street (June 16).  The Dino Dash 5K, live entertainment and impersonators, a swing dance and a Dean Martin Memorabilia Museum are just some of the activities to honor the city’s native son.

Often called “The City of Murals”, Steubenville has 22 artful presentations of important as well as everyday events and people of the city’s history that are painted on buildings throughout the downtown. A self-guided tour can be obtained at the Visitor Center. One of the most photographed is an enormous mural of Dean Martin along with some of his Rat Pack buddies. Another features Abraham Lincoln with his Secretary of War Edwin Stanton and telegrapher David Homer Bates (both from Steubenville).

Music fills the air on Thursday evenings through the summer in Steubenville. The Fort Steuben Summer Concert Series offers a variety of genres each week in the Berkman Amphitheater at 6:30pm. Bring a blanket and picnic basket to enjoy free concerts by the Ohio River.

A ride in the country is a pleasant addition to your itinerary. It’s only a few minutes down St. Rt. 7 along the Ohio River before you find rolling green hills and rural back roads. Of particular historic interest is the village of Mount Pleasant, heavily involved with the Underground Railroad and the anti-slavery activities in the 19th century. The village contains a National Historic District which includes the Friends (Quakers) Yearly Meeting House, built in 1814, and the Free Labor Store, which refused to sell products made by slave labor. An annual open house and garden tour is held there the first weekend in August.

After strolling the quaint streets of Mount Pleasant, you should be ready for a hearty meal at the nearby Farm Restaurant in Adena which features delicious food as well as charming décor. Or maybe you would like to stop by Black Sheep Vineyard to enjoy a glass of their hand-crafted wine in a cozy country setting.

Are you looking to camp out for a week or two? Check out Austin Lake RV Park & Cabins, just 20 minutes from downtown Steubenville. The 1300-acre park with an 80-acre lake offers camping, cabins, hiking trails, pontoon rentals, kayaking, fishing, hiking and picnicking as well as planned activities all summer.

For more information on these, other attractions, dining and lodging in Steubenville and Jefferson County, visit www.visitsteubenville.com or call 866-301-1787.

Mohican has long been considered the Camping & Canoeing Capital of Ohio.

This hot spot for Ohio travel and tourism is casual. Wearing shorts, tennis shoes, hiking boots, jeans and a tee shirt are pretty much all you need to wear even at area restaurants. Mohican has plenty of casual eateries that offer dining inside or out. The Mohican State Park Lodge’s, Bromfield’s Restaurant; Malabar Farm Restaurant; and the Copper Mug Bar & Grille at Landoll’s Mohican Castle all offer deck or patio options.

If you are looking for some great hiking options, many places on the bike trail are good. The stretch from the Discovery Forest to the covered bridge is probably the best part of that trail. Some places off of the horse trails lead to abandoned homesteads. If a horse or mountain biker is on the trail, please safely step off to the side and allow them to pass. For more information about hiking in Mohican, call the Mohican Visitors Bureau at 419-994-2519.

Most visitors make a weekend or week of their Mohican adventure. DiscoverMohican.com has a lot of options to consider. Some overnights offer year-round discounts. A number of the vacation rentals use VRBO.com or AirBnB.com. If the owner’s number is available, don’t hesitate to call with any questions about packages, etc. Some lodging facilities even offer movie discounts for shows playing locally at The Ohio Theatre.

Mohican isn’t just about the outdoors. Downtown Loudonville is small town America at its finest offering a variety of little shops as well as the Loudonville Public Library. It may be a small town, but the library has a lot of activities that are free and open to the public.

Some other sites to trek are The Cleo Redd Fisher Museum and Wolf Creek Grist Mill, which is one of the oldest working mills in Ohio. Memorial Shrine features the names of Ohio Veterans, who made the ultimate sacrifice, handwritten in the books on display. Another interesting stop is the Discovery Forest Exhibit in the Mohican-Memorial State Forest. On a hot summer day you may want to take a swim at the Mohican State Park Lodge. Programs offered by the naturalist and the Live Birds of Prey programs are free and open to the public.

Here is a list of the top-5, free activities for the whole family to enjoy while staying in Mohican Country:

1. Parks and trails:  Mohican State Park and Mohican-Memorial State Forest have free entry. This enables the family to enjoy the hiking trails, mountain bike trails and horse trails. There are over 100 miles of trails available to everyone in Mohican.
2. Nature programs: The Mohican State Park naturalist provides weekly programs and hikes. They are free and open to the public. Learn about the diversity of life that is native to Mohican, while having fun at the same time.
3. Take a trip down memory lane at the The Cleo Redd Fisher Museum. It offers free admission to explore Mohican area’s unique history and individuals who helped put Mohican on the map.
4. Year-round events & festivals: Yes, the majority of the Mohican events are free. This includes the award winning Loudonville Car Show and fireworks for the 4^th of July weekend.  Pleasant Hill Lake Park throughout the summer will offer free canoe and kayaking on Pleasant Hill Lake. In fall, return for the Free Loudonville Street Fair, Fall Foliage Drive-It-Yourself Tour and more. Visit DiscoverMohican.com for a full calendar of events.
5. Mohican State Park Lodge:  It doesn’t matter if you are paying to stay the night or not, the Mohican State Park Lodge is open to the public all year. Several programs are offered at the Mohican Lodge that are free and open to everyone. See the Live Birds of Prey program every Saturday, now through October. See the birds up close and personal while learning about their diets and more.

All of those free activities allows room to choose that perfect place to stay, eat and of course, spend a day floating down the ultimate lazy river. Whether at a castle, lodge, campground, inn, or private rental there is something for everyone.

Find your summer adventure in Mohican and Discover Why Mohican Rocks!

This excerpt is from a past edition of OhioTraveler

Zoombezi Bay became the first water park in America to feature an outdoor slide with built-in light shows and a personalized sound system when it revealed the SoundSurfer.

Dubbed “The King of Beats,” the SoundSurfer is a modified version of Zoombezi Bay’s longest slide, formerly known as the Tahitian Twister. Now, thrill-seekers can enjoy 512 feet of acceleration drops and vortex loops while soaked in a kaleidoscope of colors and while jamming out to Beyoncé, Skrillex, Florida Georgia Line, Ellie Goulding, Johnny Cash and other popular artists. Riders have an opportunity to select their preferred musical genres from a push button panel.

“Being the first slide in the country to deliver a personalized light show and jam session, the SoundSurfer takes the water park experience to a whole new level,” said John Gannon, senior vice president of guest services and business strategy. “People aren’t just going along for the ride anymore, they are truly becoming sound surfers.”

The slide accommodates two to five people per ride, and offers eight musical options of the riders’ choosing. The genres include:

• Rockin Rafts: Featuring AC/DC, Iron Maiden, Kid Rock, Motley Crue and Metallica
• PopParadise: Featuring Taylor Swift, DNCE, Ellie Goulding, Michael Jackson, Lady Gaga
• New Wave Country: Featuring Florida Georgia Line, Sam Hunt, Jason Aldean, Miranda Lambert, Kenny Chesney
• Rave Rider: Featuring Skrillex, LMFAO, Martin Garrix, Galantis, DJ Snake/LilJohn
• Hip Hop Drop: Featuring House of Pain, Mark Ronson/Bruno Mars, Beastie Boys, Will Smith/DJ Jazzy Jeff, Beyoncé
• Beach Party: Featuring The Surfaris, The Beach Boys, The Trashmen, Jimmy Buffet
• Random Beats: Featuring Republica, Rage Against the Machine, Tag Team, Johnny Cash, Ozzy Osbourne
• Tahitian Twister: Featuring storm, wind and wave sound effects

Riders must be 48 inches tall to ride, or 42 inches tall if accompanied by an adult. The SoundSurfer is included in admittance into the water park. Gold Memberships and Season Passes are available for purchase online, and include free parking and entry for the 2016 season. All tickets to Zoombezi Bay include free entry into the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.

Zoombezi Bay is a 22.7 acre water park that features a new multi-level play structure, 17 state of the art water slides, a wave pool, an action river, a lazy river, private cabanas, a kiddie play pool and more.

For more information about Zoombezi Bay, please visit www.zoombezibay.com.

Duck Tape Festival is perhaps the most genius idea for Fathers’ Day weekend that ever dawned on man. Avon, Ohio showcases Duck® brand duct tape in all forms including art, sculptures, fashion and more.  It is a celebration for all of the wacky and fun uses one could imagine for using duct tape. The festival honors the history and heritage of the city that is proclaimed the “Duct Tape Capital of the world”, home of Duck® brand duct tape.  Rides, games and food are a part of this free annual event which kicks off with a duct tape parade! Complete information is available at http://www.ducktapefestival.com/.  

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/.

When was the last time you got the whole gang together?  Whether family or friends there’s a good chance everyone is spread across the map.  This will be a great year for a road trip reunion.

Ever since John Belushi shouted those famous words “Road Trip!” in “Animal House” the very idea congers up images of escape, adventure and maybe a little mischief.  Southeast Ohio’s Hocking Hills is the perfect destination for the quintessential reunion road trip.

Located within a day’s drive of more than sixty percent of the U.S. population, the Hocking Hills region is internationally recognized as the best “Under-the-Radar” destination in all of North America by Buzzfeed.com stating that, “Hocking Hills State Park is a must for nature lovers, filled with cliffs, gorges, and waterfalls.”

The region is best known for world-class hiking and cozy cabins.  The Hocking Hills is also the Canopy Tour Capital of the Midwest with more than fifty ziplines.  This is the place to bring your bucket list.  Get a bird’s eye view from the tree canopy.  Fly like Buck Rogers with Jet Pack Water Adventures.  Anglers are in for a whole new experience with Ohio Belly Boat Fishing.

Whether your bucket list wish is to say so-long to your schedule, disconnect from all the electronic gadgets or an adrenaline filled, high-flying weekend with your alma mater pals, the Hocking Hills is just the ticket.  Outdoor recreation, family friendly festivals, museums, performing arts, tours and much more will keep everyone entertained.

After an activity filled day it’s time to relax and what could be more relaxing than your own private resort.  Luxurious lodges are designed to provide privacy, plenty of room for everyone and all the comforts of home.  Go for a swim in your private pool.  Chill out in a hot tub while gazing at the star-filled sky.  Toast marshmallows over an open fire while stories of the day and laughter lingers in the evening air.

Plan your road rip reunion around one of the region’s signature festivals.  The Washboard Music Festival brings bluegrass, zydeco, rock, country, folk and gospel music together for a celebration of the washboard’s melodic tones in historic downtown Logan (June).  Lilyfest is the “un-festival”.  There are no deep fried foods, Ferris wheels or fireworks, just flowers, art and music wafting on a breeze throughout the Bishop Educational Gardens (July).

The Laurelville Fireman’s Old Time Festival in July is just what you would expect.  The nightly fish fry is legendary.  The Midway delights kids of all ages.  When was the last time you took a spin on a Tilt-a-Whirl?  The highlight of the festival is Ohio’s most expensive cake auction.

Everyone loves a parade so, naturally, everyone loves Nelsonville’s Parade of the Hills featuring three parades beginning with the Main Street Welcome Home Parade on Wednesday followed by the Bicycle Parade on Thursday and the pièce de résistance, the Grande Parade on Saturday.  Add Queen contests, the Ohio State Fiddling Contest, Pie Contest & Auction and a 5k Run For The Hills (just in case you eat too much pie)and you’ve got one great festival.  Evening musical entertainment includes Hard Days Night (Beatles Tribute Band) on Wednesday, Ohio’s own McGuffey Lane on Thursday, Mr. Speed (KISS Tribute Band) on Friday and Stadium 11 in August.

So fire off those emails, tweets, posts, shares.  This is the summer for a road trip reunion and your destination is the Hocking Hills.

Historic Roscoe Village is a Standout in Ohio Tourism

Historic Roscoe Village: This historic Ohio canal town is a standout in a variety of experiences. The canal boat ride, living history tours, unique shopping, dining and special events make this a favorite destination for tens of thousands year round. Get lost in the architecture and the tales from costumed guides and you’ll feel what it’s like to be living in the 1800s. The general store, blacksmith, schoolhouse, doctor’s office and so much more add to the authenticity of this time capsule. Throughout the year, amazing seasonal events add to the bustling village and its history, creating family memories for all. Discover all that Historic Roscoe Village has to offer at http://www.roscoevillage.com/.

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/.

Excerpt from a past edition of OhioTraveler

Ross County and Chillicothe, Ohio offers visitors not only the opportunity to explore Ohio’s heritage but also provides a beautiful setting for outdoor recreation. Located in southern Ohio, Ross County is part of Ohio’s Appalachian Country that consists of many of the counties throughout eastern and southern Ohio.

Chillicothe was the first capital of Ohio and contains lots of historical sites that allow each visitor to learn more about the heritage of the area and life in different eras. Learn facts about Ross County from the prehistoric, Hopewell Culture to the view from Thomas Worthington’s estate that became the background to the Great Seal of Ohio.

Step back in time at Adena Mansion & Gardens with a tour of the home and grounds of Thomas Worthington, who was known as the “Father of Statehood.” The guided tours take you on a journey through the mansion to learn about life in that era. Relive the life of Shawnee leader, Tecumseh, at the Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, home of “Tecumseh” Outdoor Drama. Visitors will witness the epic life story of Tecumseh as he struggles to defend his sacred homelands in the Ohio country during the late 1700s. Guided tours of the Ross County Heritage Center provides visitors with the opportunity to learn more about the history of Chillicothe and Ohio, knowledge about Native Americans in the area, the military training center known as Camp Sherman, and much more!

Travel even farther back in time to 200 BC at Ross County’s National Park. Discover the Hopewell Culture and learn about the ceremonial earthworks that these natives had created. At Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, you can get a ranger led tour through the earthworks to uncover more facts about this culture. This location is currently nominated as a World Heritage Inscription site for the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks.

Another treasure for Chillicothe is the 160 year old continuously operating, Majestic Theatre. This theater is not only a historical site but continues to offer entertainment to the area. It hosts over 100 events each year that feature a variety of musical performances, plays, and workshops.

If you enjoy being outdoors, Ross County is definitely where to be! Ross County is fortunate to be able to offer visitors five State Parks with beautiful scenery and many trails for walking or biking. Many of the State Parks also offer a variety of activities which include beach areas for swimming, boating, and fishing. If you enjoy biking, Ross County is part of the Tri-County Triangle Trail that contains over 32 miles of paved trails. If you prefer to be on the water, visitors can relax and enjoy nature by traveling down Paint Creek by canoe or kayak at one of the canoe liveries.

For visitors who enjoy festivals, Ross County hosts several annual festivals throughout the year. Each festival offers its own unique touch to complement the community and its heritage from the Native American heritage to the beautiful autumn colors of Southern Ohio. Some of the most notable festivals include the Feast of the Flowering Moon, International Sunflower Festival, Salt Creek Valley Festival, Southern Ohio Storytelling Festival and the Fall Festival of Leaves.

Don’t miss out on some of Chillicothe’s best local flavors! Visit restaurants in downtown Chillicothe for a variety of great food and fun atmosphere. You can also spend the afternoon browsing through the unique shops that make up the downtown area and then spend some time in Yoctangee Park.

Whether visitors are looking for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, Chillicothe and Ross County can provide them with something fun to do while learning about its heritage. With many more historical sites and special events, there is never a shortage of activities. You can find more information about the area by visiting the Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau’s website at www.VisitChillicotheOhio.com.