Remember a world before AI and CGI films. One hundred years ago, Buster Keaton’s 1926 silent-film classic The General, filmmakers staged one of the most spectacular scenes of the silent era by sending a real steam locomotive across a burning trestle and crashing it into Oregon’s Row River near Cottage Grove. The stunt was filmed with six cameras, cost an estimated $42,000, and had to work on the first take. The wrecked locomotive remained in the river for nearly two decades before being salvaged for scrap during World War II. 

See it on the big screen once again at The Cleveland Silent Film Festival & Colloquium (CSFF), which will present its annual festival from September 15–20, 2026. The series includes six classic films from around the world, five of them released in 1926, as CSFF continues its tradition of spotlighting centennial films.

The festival opens Sept.15 with the 1923 comedy/drama East and West, the earliest surviving film from Yiddish theater star Molly Picon. “The film is an enormously important document of early Yiddish theater and of the talents of the incredible Molly Picon,” says Cleveland Silent Film Festival executive director Emily Laurance. Produced in Vienna, East and West was Picon’s second film, a blend of comedy, romance and cross-cultural collision in which an Americanized young Jewish woman (Picon) clashes with the traditions of her Eastern European relatives.

This special presentation features a live original score performed by acclaimed team of pianist Donald Sosin and klezmer violinist Alicia Svigals. Laurance says, “I have long wished to bring Donald Sosin and Alicia Svigals to Cleveland to perform one of their original scores to early Jewish-themed films. I have heard Sosin perform many times at the San Francisco Silent Film Festival, and I heard him collaborate with Svigals in their live performance for the film City Without Jews a few years ago. Their new score for the restoration of East and West is their first for a comedy.” Sept.15 at 7:30 p.m. at The Cinematheque at the Cleveland Institute of Art.

David Huffman, Director of the Cinematheque, said, “I am thrilled to continue the partnership between the Cinematheque at the Cleveland Institute of Art and CSFF. While the Cinematheque regularly presents silent films, this screening is extra special because CSFF is bringing in world-class musicians to perform live with the film. Showcasing our cinematic history and allowing audiences to have unique experiences is what the Cinematheque is all about.”

On Sept. 16, John Ford’s western 3 Bad Men (1926), screens at CMA’s Gartner Auditorium. Ford directed many silent Westerns; 3 Bad Men is among his best. The story follows three outlaws who inadvertently rescue a young woman (Olive Borden), and become her unlikely protectors after her father is killed. George O’Brien co-stars as a young settler drawn into their struggle against a corrupt sheriff.

Cleveland’s star pianist Jackie Warren (whose early career included accompanying melodramas in Colorado), will perform an original improvised score. Sept. 16, 2026, 7:00 pm, the Cleveland Museum of Art. Noted John Ford expert Grafton Nunes will speak about the film at 6:30 pm.

On Sept. 17, Buster Keaton’s beloved comedy The General (1926) screens at the Cleveland Grays Armory Museum in downtown Cleveland. A critical failure on its original release, The General is now regarded as one of Keaton’s greatest films. The film features two elaborate locomotive chases that include some of Keaton’s most daring and famous stuntwork, including, most famously, an actual train plummeting from a collapsing bridge into a gorge.

This special showing will feature theater organist Donnie Rankin, performing his score live on the Armory’s historic Wurlitzer, originally housed at Erie’s Warner Theater. Sept. 17, 2026, 7:30 pm, 1234 Bolivar Road.

“Kudos to the Cleveland Silent Film Festival for preserving this historical art form in such a magnificent way!,” says Rankin. “It’s an honor to be a part of this year’s lineup, and I’m doubly excited to help celebrate the centennial of The General. I look forward to weaving together themes on one of the mightiest Wurlitzers in Cleveland at Grays Armory.

Rankin continues: “A one-of-a-kind venue with its own ties to the period of the film? Check. One of the most celebrated films of the silent era accompanied as it would be 100 years ago? Check.”

On Sept. 18, The Johnstown Flood (1926) screens at CMA. Historian Robert A. Harris notes that “the importance of The Johnstown Flood to film history is difficult to overstate.” In 1889, the South Fork Dam above Johnstown, Pennsylvania, failed, causing the deadliest flash flood in American History. Thirty-seven years later, George O’Brien, Janet Gaynor and Florence Gilbert starred in director Irving Cummings’s dramatization. The film is noted for its innovative special effects.

The score for The Johnstown Flood, which was created expressly for the film, will be performed by a quintet led by noted silent film musician Rodney Sauer. Sept. 18, 2026, 7:30 pm, Gartner Auditorium, Cleveland Museum of Art.

Sept. 19 brings the Japanese classic A Page of Madness (1926) to CMA. Directed by Teinosuke Kinugasa in collaboration with artists of Japan’s experimental “School of New Perceptions,” A Page of Madness draws on German Expressionism, Noh theater, and melodrama. Set in a psychiatric hospital, the film follows a woman who has lost her mental bearings. This screening features an original score by James Praznik performed by a quintet drawn from No Exit New Music Ensemble. Sept. 19, 2026, 2:30 pm, Gartner Auditorium, Cleveland Museum of Art.

Tim Beyer, Artistic Director of No Exit New Music Ensemble, says, “James Praznik, who is a remarkable composer and pianist, is also a rather talented filmmaker in his own right. James has a long and storied history of creating original music to accompany silent films.”

The festival concludes on Sept. 20 with Beau Geste (1926). The story centers on the bond among three English brothers (played by Ronald Colman, Neil Hamilton, and Ralph Forbes) whose lives are disrupted by the disappearance of a precious family heirloom, leading them to the French Foreign Legion and the battlefields of North Africa. Paramount Pictures. Studio chief Jesse Lasky gave director Herbert Brenon resources to create a film that matches the novel’s epic scope.

Silent film music specialist Rodney Sauer will lead a quintet in a newly compiled score created for the film, combining period music with original improvisation to heighten its romance, suspense, and grandeur. Sept. 20, 2026, 2:30 pm, Gartner Auditorium, the Cleveland Museum of Art.

In addition to individual tickets, moviegoers can purchase a Festival Pass that includes admission to all six films at all three venues.

For more information, visit clevelandsilentfilmfestival.org.

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The Last of The Outsiders
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“These Grill Boys Are Cooked!”

The Last of The Outsiders is a humorous comic strip featuring outdoor adventures, mishaps, and antics, when growing up was largely done away from a handheld screen.

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and Still Going Strong
at Niederman Family Farm

A small family farm in Southwest Ohio is celebrating a large milestone- 25 years of fall fun.

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

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

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

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

Fall is a busy season that seems to fly by in the blink of an eye, so start planning your trip now to Niederman Family Farm! Buy admission tickets online and save, but also watch for promotions they will be running leading up to opening weekend on September 25th, 2026. Visit their website for more details and bonfire rentals. And if you love craft shows, visit their free craft show with over 115 local vendors taking place on September 19th and 20th!

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A Step Back in Time

Each fall, the quiet hills of West Portsmouth, Ohio, come alive with the sights, sounds, and sweet aroma of one of Appalachia’s most authentic cultural celebrations. The John Roger Simon Sorghum Festival, hosted by the Arc of Appalachia in partnership with the Simon family, takes place on the last full weekend of September (Sept. 26-27, 2026). Visitors can experience the complete process of making old-fashioned sorghum syrup, learn about Appalachian culture, and tour portions of the Simon Farm property, including a museum filled with historic farm tools that tell the story of rural life in southern Ohio.

Nestled along Pond Creek and surrounded by more than 650 acres of forested Appalachian hills, the Simon Farm remains one of Ohio’s best-preserved historic farmsteads. The two-story farmhouse, barns, and outbuildings were constructed with lumber milled at the family’s own water-powered sawmill and have remained remarkably unchanged for more than 160 years.

The festival’s centerpiece is the time-honored tradition of sorghum making—from harvesting the cane to bottling the finished product. Sorghum, a hardy grass cultivated throughout the world, became an important Appalachian crop in the 19th century. During the festival, freshly cut cane is pressed to extract its juice, which is then slowly cooked over a wood fire until it thickens into a rich, amber syrup. Visitors can watch every step of this labor-intensive process and even purchase fresh sorghum syrup to take home—a sweet reminder of a nearly forgotten agricultural tradition.

Throughout the weekend, the Simon Farm becomes a showcase of Appalachian heritage. Skilled artisans demonstrate traditional crafts such as quilting, wool spinning, soap making, and blacksmithing. These hands-on demonstrations celebrate the ingenuity and self-sufficiency that once defined everyday life throughout the region.

Music is also part of the festival experience, with spontaneous jam sessions where musicians gather with banjos, fiddles, mandolins, and guitars to play traditional Appalachian tunes. These informal performances create an atmosphere that feels less like a staged event and more like an old-fashioned community gathering.

Of course, being a festival centered around sorghum also means food plays an important role in the festivities. Visitors can enjoy hearty country favorites, including bean soup and cornbread, hot dogs topped with Bea’s homemade meat sauce, and an assortment of baked goods sweetened with locally made sorghum syrup. Fresh sorghum products and other handcrafted items are available for purchase from local artisans and volunteers throughout the weekend.

In an era when many festivals focus on commercial entertainment, the John Roger Simon Sorghum Festival remains refreshingly authentic. It invites visitors to slow down, watch skilled hands at work, listen to old-time music, and experience a way of life that continues to shape the identity of Appalachia. For families, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to experience genuine Appalachian culture, a visit to the John Roger Simon Sorghum Festival is more than a day trip—it’s a journey into the living heritage of southern Ohio.

While the festival is reason enough to visit, be sure to discover even more of what the region has to offer. From scenic outdoor adventures and fascinating historic sites to local restaurants, unique shops, and year-round events. Visit ExploreScioto.com to plan your visit to Portsmouth and Scioto County and make the most of your time in southern Ohio.

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Tasting the Fall Harvest One Family Farm at a Time

Wayne County, Ohio’s fall harvest is not something to only glimpse from a car window on the way to a pumpkin patch. It is something to taste, slowly, at a handful of farms, dairies and family-run kitchens where nearly every ingredient on the plate can be traced back to a specific farm, a specific herd, and a specific family who has been tending both for generations.

The story begins at Hartzler Family Dairy in Wooster, Ohio, a farm-to-table dairy built on a decision made decades before the phrase existed. In 1964, Harold Hartzler stopped using chemical pesticides and herbicides on the family farm after watching what runoff had done to a neighboring property, choosing instead to farm the way his own grandparents once had. That same philosophy still shapes Hartzler Family Dairy today, which bottles its own milk in glass and turns it into small-batch ice cream at its Wooster storefront, including a pumpkin flavor regulars watch for as soon as the leaves start to turn.

A few blocks away, Wooster’s newest dairy destination, The Milkhouse, opened this year inside a lovingly restored historic building that once served the town as a feed store and butcher shop. Its ice cream is made from milk sourced directly from Spring Hill Farm and Pine Tree Dairy in nearby Marshallville, and the blend of Jersey and Holstein milk gives every scoop a rich, golden creaminess that tastes distinctly of Ohio pasture.

Around the corner, Local Roots Market and Café has spent more than fifteen years turning that same farm-to-table spirit into a fully cooperative grocery. Carrying goods from more than 200 Ohio producers, each labeled by the farm or kitchen it came from, the market lets visitors shop the harvest by name, not just by season. Local Roots changes its lunch menu daily based on whatever is being picked that week, offering an honest, ever-changing window into what Wayne County’s farms are growing right now.

That same direct approach carries into Creston, where two very different businesses grew from the same rural roots. Whitefeather Meats has built a loyal following as a family-owned butcher shop specializing in locally sourced, sustainably raised meats, from grass-fed beef to bison, elk, and venison, all hand-cut and smoked on site with the kind of care that only comes from knowing exactly where the animal was raised.

Just down the road, Gasser’s Marketplace is run by a local dairy farming family and blends a bulk food store with a deli counter, offering made-to-order sandwiches alongside local honey and homemade preserves, a natural extension of the farm the family already tends each morning before the shop opens.

If you head south in the small village of Fredericksburg, Ohio, Salt Creek Cafe and Creamery closes the loop between field and cup. Salt Creek sources its dairy from local suppliers and its lettuce from nearby growers, pairing fair trade coffee with scratch-made bakery items and creamery offerings in a setting that still feels like the quiet, close-knit farm town it has always been.

What ties these Wayne County farm-to-table stops together is not proximity but philosophy. None of them are chasing a “farm-to-table” aesthetic; they are simply extensions of farms that already exist down the road, run by families who can name the herd, the field, or the neighbor behind what ends up on the plate.

For travelers exploring Wayne County, Ohio, this fall harvest season, that authenticity is the real draw: a trip that starts in a pumpkin patch and ends at a table where the food actually came from somewhere, and someone nearby.

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Why Autumn Is Ohio’s Amish Country at Its Best

There’s a particular kind of golden light that settles over Tuscarawas County every fall, catching on barn roofs, glinting off buggies, and setting whole hillsides of maples ablaze. Fall doesn’t just arrive here — it takes over. If you’re wondering whether a trip to this corner of Ohio’s Amish Country is worth planning around, the answer is simple: this is the season the county was made for.

Tuscarawas County sits in the rolling hills of Appalachian Ohio — terrain so reminiscent of the Alps that Swiss immigrants settled here in the 1800s and felt right at home. They planted dairy farms and built the cheesemaking tradition around Sugarcreek that Amish families still carry on today. That blend of Swiss heritage, Amish tradition, and small-town charm gives the county its own personality, and autumn shows it off best. Wander downtown Sugarcreek for its murals and the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock, chiming on the hour.

It’s no accident that neighboring Holmes County has been named by National Geographic as one of the world’s best places for fall foliage. Tuscarawas shares the same ridge-and-valley topography and hardwood forests that make the color show spectacular — with a quieter, less-crowded way to take it in.

Fall color here typically builds through late September, peaks in the second and third weeks of October, and lingers into early November in sheltered valleys. Because elevation shifts between river bottoms and ridgelines, the peak doesn’t happen everywhere at once — higher hills turn first, while river valleys hold their color longer. A trip planned for late September, mid-October, or early November can all reward you with a beautiful version of the season.

This county is made for an unhurried, windows-down drive. Back roads along the Tuscarawas River between New Philadelphia, Dover, and Zoar put you alongside working Amish farms, whitewashed fences, and hillsides layered in red and gold. The route toward Sugarcreek carries you through patchwork farmland into its Swiss-flavored downtown, and a loop to Zoar Village reveals historic brick-and-timber architecture framed by turning trees. Keep the camera close.

Fall is prime trail season here. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail offers a flat, tree-lined path perfect for biking or walking as leaves come down around you. Around Zoar and the river valley, quieter wooded trails offer a more intimate look at the season’s color. In downtown Dover, Riverfront Park is an easy, family-friendly stop with a scenic swing overlooking the water.

Beyond the scenery, fall here is a season to slow down and shop local. Roadside stands overflow with the last of the season’s produce, preserves, and baked goods. Downtown New Philadelphia offers boutiques, art galleries, a maker’s market, and specialty food shops. Dover’s downtown has friendly diners, a hand-crafted candy store, and a bookstore. Baltic pairs a winery inside a historic mill with a coffee roaster, a home-and-wardrobe shop, and a farmhouse-style restaurant.

The fall calendar gives you plenty of reasons to book. Downtown Sugarcreek hosts the Ohio Swiss Festival, October 1st–3rd, with wine, cheese, parades, music, and rides. History lovers can catch Schoenbrunn Village’s fall lantern tours, September 11 and 12, and theater fans can see 1776 at Trumpet in the Land September 11–13. Zoar Village runs ghost tours October 9–10, 16–17, 23–24, and 30–31, and the J.E. Reeves Victorian Home in Dover offers its own ghost tours October 16 and 17. Don’t miss the Falliday Train Rides in Dennison, October 17 and 18, or the Age of Steam Roundhouse’s fall lantern tours in Baltic, October 16–17 and 23–24. There’s rarely a fall weekend here without something worth building a trip around.

With just a weekend, start in Sugarcreek for the murals, cuckoo clock, and Alpine Hills Museum, then head to Zoar Village for its historic streets and reflection garden. Save an afternoon for Dover’s museum trio — the Warther Museum and Gardens, the J.E. Reeves Victorian Home, and the Famous Endings Museum — before wandering downtown New Philadelphia for dinner and shopping. Add a stop at Dennison’s Hallmark-worthy depot village, and if your dates line up with a festival, build your trip around it.

Ask locals what deserves more attention, and Dennison usually comes up first — this quiet, Hallmark-like village has a direct tie to a famous American song, told through the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. Staying overnight in the on-site Pullman Car Bed and Breakfast is a memorable, one-of-a-kind experience. Baltic is another under-the-radar stop, with its historic-mill winery and the Age of Steam Roundhouse’s engine collection. In Dover, the hand-carved detail inside the Warther Museum often turns a quick stop into an hour-long visit.

Because color, crowds, and event schedules shift through the season, check the calendar before you go and build in flexibility — an unplanned stop at a farm stand is often the best part of the trip. Weekdays tend to be quieter than weekends, especially during festivals. Layer your clothing, since fall mornings in the hills can be crisp, and give yourself time between stops — this is a county best experienced slowly.

From the first hint of color on the ridgelines to the last lantern of the season, Tuscarawas County is ready to welcome you. Whether you come for a single festival weekend or a longer stay, autumn here has a way of making visitors into repeat guests.

To learn more, view the complete events calendar, and explore overnight lodging options, visit https://traveltusc.com/, call 800-527-3387, or stop by the Welcome Center at 124 East High Ave, New Philadelphia.

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Nestled in the heart of Ohio Amish Country, Holmes County has become a beloved destination, inviting travelers to slow down, savor the season, and experience the simple beauty of fall. From scenic backroads lined with vibrant foliage to bustling farm markets overflowing with harvest bounty, autumn in Ohio Amish Country offers an unforgettable getaway for families, couples, and anyone longing for a peaceful retreat.

The fall season kicks off in Berlin with the annual Harvest Festival, Rib Cook-off and Parade.  Enjoy this year’s Harvest Festival on Friday, September 11^th and Saturday, September 12^th along Main Street in downtown Berlin, where locals and visitors come together to celebrate the flavors, sights and sounds of the season.

Another sign of the season is the annual Winesburg Fall Gathering, September 18–19, a beloved tradition filled with fun, fellowship, and a great cause! Enjoy a weekend packed with live music, delicious food, a benefit auction and raffle, 5K run, softball and pickleball tournaments, local history panels, and a spectacular fireworks display. This year’s event features more than $150,000 in raffle prizes, with every ticket helping support local families in need.

One of the greatest joys of visiting Ohio Amish Country in the fall is discovering the abundance of fresh seasonal produce throughout the countryside. Along winding backroads, roadside farm stands pop up in nearly every direction, offering a colorful display of pumpkins, squash, apples, and jars of homemade jams and honey. The region’s slower pace encourages travelers to take their time, enjoy the scenery, and connect with the agricultural traditions that define the area.

Few places capture the spirit of autumn better than Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery. A longtime favorite for visitors of all ages, Hershberger’s comes alive during the fall season with festive decorations, colorful mums, towering stacks of pumpkins, and the aroma of fresh-baked goods drifting from the bakery. Guests can climb aboard a wagon ride bound for the pumpkin patch, where children and adults alike will delight in selecting the perfect pumpkin to take home. Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery will host their Fall Late Nights event on Friday, October 2^nd and 16^th from 4pm-9pm.  Attendees will receive free admission to the animal petting area, free pony rides and a free wagon ride to the pumpkin patch.

Another highlight of the fall season is The Farm at Walnut Creek, where their annual Fall Festival weekends kick off September 25^th and run through October with family-friendly authentic rural experiences.

One of the most popular attractions is the horse-drawn wagon ride through the farm’s expansive grounds, where guests can feed more than 500 animals representing species from around the world. From giraffes and zebras to bison and exotic deer, the experience creates lasting memories while showcasing the beauty of the countryside in peak fall color.

The Farm at Walnut Creek, as well as Yoder’s Amish Home, offer self-guided tours of a traditional Amish home, giving guests an opportunity to learn more about Amish culture, customs, and daily life. Demonstrations throughout the festival weekends highlight traditional skills and hands-on experiences that connect visitors to the region’s rich heritage.

Apple season is another reason travelers flock to Ohio Amish Country each fall. U-pick opportunities throughout the area allow guests to experience the harvest firsthand while enjoying crisp autumn air and scenic orchard views. Hillcrest Orchard in Walnut Creek is a favorite stop for apple enthusiasts eager to fill baskets with freshly picked fruit.

Beyond the orchard itself, the market at Hillcrest Orchard features an impressive selection of fall produce, pumpkins, baked goods, jams, and seasonal decorations. Fresh pressed apple cider is a must-try fall tradition at Hillcrest Orchard, offering the perfect balance of sweetness and crisp flavor. Many seek out the orchard’s famous apple cider slushies, a refreshing seasonal treat enjoyed while taking in the colorful surroundings from the back deck overlooking the valley.

Outdoor enthusiasts looking to get in a little exercise can take in the fall colors while biking the Holmes County Trail or playing 18 holes on the greens.  The tree-lined Holmes County Trail offers miles of paved trail shared by bicyclists, Amish buggies, hikers and horseback riders. While the Black Diamond Golf Course and Fire Ridge Golf Course offer rolling fairways with breathtaking views of the countryside. Both provide a great way to reconnect with friends or family.

A day filled with outdoor adventure leads to a healthy appetite and there is no shortage of savory Amish-inspired meals waiting to satisfy your hunger.  Enjoy a traditional Amish buffet at Der Dutchman Restaurant in Walnut Creek, Berlin Farmstead in Berlin or Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen in Mt. Hope, where you can fill your plate with savory broasted chicken, mashed potatoes, freshly picked vegetables and dessert delights.  Looking at where the locals eat, stop in at Boyd & Wurthmann in Berlin or head to Rebecca’s Bistro in Walnut Creek for a delicious early breakfast.

Perhaps the greatest appeal of Ohio Amish Country is the opportunity to reconnect with simpler pleasures. Scenic drives along quiet backroads reveal horse-drawn buggies and rolling farmland painted in autumn color. As the leaves begin to change and the harvest season arrives, there may be no better place than Holmes County to experience the warmth and wonder of fall.  Plan your autumn adventure at visitamishcountry.com.

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of the Ohio Foothills

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

Native tribes like the Hopewell and Adena were successful in growing corn, beans and squash along the fertile river valleys of the region. Today, the Ohio Foothills is home to nearly 10,000 family-operated farms growing crops like corn, wheat and soybeans, which are visible throughout the region. These farms also produce fruits and vegetables along with beef & dairy, pork, poultry & eggs, sheep and goats. It’s no surprise that seasonal farm markets are in every county in the Ohio Foothills, making it easy for residents and guests to support small, local farms while buying fresh tomatoes, herbs, and corn; seasonal vegetables and homemade jams; local honey; sourdough bread; and traditional baked goods.

Exploring the Ohio Foothills can include a variety of culinary experiences, including meals prepared by restaurants that specialize in farm-to-table menus. The Brickhouse Market & Deli features fresh, scratch-made comfort food, stacked deli sandwiches, chef-inspired flatbreads and stocks unique goods from local community vendors.     63 Corks offers chef-driven dishes that bring an upscale twist to comfort food prepared with locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. (Reservations are recommended for dining in this intimate restaurant.) Christopher’s features rotating menus that highlight seasonal, local produce. Deli on the Square and East Main Kitchen are family-owned, full-service restaurants that specialize in high-quality sandwiches, salads and soups, bread and desserts made from scratch.

Beverage enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of unique locations throughout the region, with more than 20 family-owned wineries and 10 breweries. No one will go home thirsty! The Piccin family has been making wine for more than 100 years, with traditions passed down through the family from Vittorio Veneto, Italy.  Vino di Piccin Winery & Tasting House offers a relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Georgetown Vineyards & Tavern offers a full food and drink menu including pizza & slushies! Guests love the gorgeous patio view. Georgetown is pet- and kid-friendly, and has extras including 2 hiking trails, an Airbnb, tent camping, EV charging, and RV parking. For beer lovers, Wooly Pig Farm Brewery is not to be missed. It specializes in traditional German lagers, with 8-12 beers on tap in the tasting room and seasonal specialties year-round. The brewery is family- and pet-friendly, with plenty of outdoor seating and a fire pit, plus two historic barns and woolly pigs roaming the nearby pasture. Weasel Boy Brewing is a craft brewpub and music venue delivering award-winning beer and pizza made from scratch in a restored warehouse on the Muskingum River. For groups wanting to try a little bit of everything, Taste of Ohio Wine, Bourbon & Beer is the perfect destination for those 21 and over. Guests can use self-serve taps to taste Ohio wine, bourbon, beer, and spirits. The tavern also offers handcrafted mocktails, a full kitchen, live entertainment, an outdoor patio, and over 25 varieties of cigars.

Coffee lovers are also at home in the Ohio Foothills, where more than 20 coffee shops and 16 bakeries can be found. Missions Cafe and Chapman’s Coffee House offer breakfast along with a variety of baked goods and gourmet coffee and smoothies. Long-standing bakeries like Kennedy’s and Donald’s Delicious Donuts have served their communities delicious treats for decades. Several locations serve weekend brunch, including Killing Tree Winery, The Tavern at Hotel Millersburg, and The Blue Sky Cafe. Traditional diners are popular, too, including hometown favorites like The Nook on Heller, Scott’s Diner, and Theo’s, known for its “mile high” pie.

With its focus on locally owned small businesses, the Ohio Foothills is the perfect place to explore farm-to-table fare.  The ten Appalachian Ohio counties that comprise the region are Belmont, Carroll, Columbiana, Coshocton, Guernsey, Harrison, Holmes, Jefferson, Muskingum, and Tuscarawas. Defined by the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountain region, the area is filled with charming towns and cities nestled among rivers, hills, valleys, and wooded areas. Learn more about all that The Ohio Foothills has to offer at visitohiofoothills.com.

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Coshocton County has gone to the dogs–and not in a bad way! Many opportunities are available for those traveling with pets.

Bring the dog for a swim at Lake Park Aquatic Center’s annual Doggie Paddle Day on Tuesday, September 8, 4-7pm. Admission is $5 per dog or a donation of food, toys or cleaning supplies to benefit the Coshocton County Animal Shelter.

Saturday, September 19 is a day of celebration for pets and their owners. Bring the family and celebrate with your pets by running a 5K or attending a festival just for dogs! The first-ever K9-5K will begin at 8 AM in Historic Roscoe Village. The race course is on flat, paved surfaces, which are perfect for traditional runners looking to set a PR, families with kids and strollers who want to enjoy a fun walk, or people with their leashed pups! The Roscoe Village Business Association sponsors the race, and proceeds benefit the Coshocton County Animal Shelter. Registration is $25; participants may register here.

The annual Coshocton Dog Fest will be held on the Coshocton Court Square. This free event features a day filled with fun for pets and their people.  Attendees will enjoy food trucks and craft vendors along with special presentations from Ultimate Air Dogs Dock Diving and demonstrations from High-Performance Canines Frisbee Pitch & Catch and High Flying Fun. The Lure Course is free for all dogs to try. It is enclosed and features a moving flag, which inspires even the most pampered dogs to give chase. Coshocton also has a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), so adult beverages may be enjoyed throughout the day. Plenty of free parking is available. The Coshocton Dog Fest is sponsored by Good Boy Bakery and is a fundraiser for the Coshocton County Animal Shelter (HATA ), raising over $10,000 in its first two years.  Learn more at Coshoctondogfest.com.

Coshocton always welcomes families traveling with their pets, providing plenty of activities, lodging and dining options. The McWane River Walk is perfect for a long walk with your pet. The paved multi-use paths follow the Walhonding and Tuscarawas Rivers and safely connect Roscoe Village and Lake Park to the city of Coshocton. The walk features a new playground for kids of all ages, picnic shelters and river swings, with plenty of open spaces to explore. Lake Park’s trails now include free pet waste stations and a new dog water fountain! Clary Gardens, Eagle Ridge Disc Golf Course and Scarr Loop Trail are pet-friendly with trails and beautiful scenery. The Monticello III Horse Drawn Canal Boat Ride runs on weekends through mid-October and welcomes leashed pets.

Coshocton offers many pet-friendly lodging and dining options. McKenna Lodging offers apartments right in Historic Roscoe Village and Roscoe Hillside Cabins is a short distance away. For those who prefer a hotel, The Roscoe Boutique Motel is the perfect place to stay. The rooms are beautifully appointed and the surrounding yard has lots of space for walks. The hotel easily connects to Historic Roscoe Village, where most shops are dog-friendly. Dogs are also welcome campers at Coshocton KOA Campground and at Lake Park Campground. Great meals don’t have to be missed, as all four restaurants in Roscoe Village have outdoor seating available and welcome guests to dine with leashed pets. Good Boy Bakery specializes in all-natural treats, chews and pet toys for dogs and cats. Be sure to stop in for a free Woofle treat and belly rub (for dogs only, of course). Dogs are also welcome at Wooly Pig Farm Brewery, which specializes in German-style lagers. This laid-back brewery is both family- and pet-friendly with plenty of open space and seating, including private salettls (beer huts), a covered patio, picnic tables and a fire pit. Weekends also feature food trucks and annual events include a May Day celebration and Oktoberfest.

Coshocton is located within an easy drive of Columbus, Cleveland, and Pittsburgh and is the perfect place for a getaway with family or friends and their pets! VisitCoshocton.com has details on events, attractions, shopping, and dining.

Call today to request a free information package at (800) 338-4724.

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Every fall, the rolling hills of eastern Ohio come alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of one of the state’s most beloved traditions, the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival. For more than six decades, this charming town in Belmont County has welcomed thousands of visitors each September to celebrate the season in true small-town style. This year’s festival, taking place September 24–27, 2026, promises another unforgettable weekend filled with giant pumpkins, festive parades, delicious food, and family fun.

Founded in 1965, the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival began as a modest community gathering and has since blossomed into one of Ohio’s premier fall events. What makes it truly special is the way the entire town comes together to host the celebration. Barnesville’s historic downtown transforms into a lively festival ground, where visitors are greeted with a warm welcome and a contagious spirit of autumn joy.

The event is run entirely by volunteers, many of whom are second- or third-generation festival organizers. This deep sense of community pride keeps families returning year after year and helps first-time visitors feel at home instantly.

No trip to the festival would be complete without the Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off, held on Wednesday evening to kick off the festivities. Crowds gather in anticipation as colossal gourds are carefully lifted onto scales, vying for the honor of being crowned King Pumpkin.

In recent years, the weigh-off has drawn national attention. Just a few years ago, the winning pumpkin tipped the scales at an astounding 1,950 pounds and later sold at auction for $15,000. The year before, a record-breaking 2,405-pound pumpkin claimed the crown and set a new Pennsylvania state record—proof that growers take this competition seriously. Once announced, the King Pumpkin sits proudly on display for the rest of the festival, offering a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity for visitors.

The festival isn’t just about pumpkins on pedestals—it’s also about pumpkins on the plate. The streets are filled with the tempting aromas of autumn favorites, from pumpkin pie and pumpkin rolls to creamy pumpkin ice cream. Visitors can also enjoy hearty meals, home-baked goods, and regional specialties served up by local vendors and food trucks. Whether sweet or savory, the food is every bit as memorable as the giant gourds.

The Barnesville Pumpkin Festival is designed for all ages, offering activities that range from playful contests to cultural traditions. Popular events include:

• Pumpkin Pie-Eating Contest – A messy, fast-paced race to the finish for dessert lovers.
• Hog Calling & Beard/Mustache Contests – Quirky, crowd-pleasing competitions that highlight the festival’s fun-loving character.
• Pumpkin 5K Run/Walk – A refreshing way to enjoy the crisp fall air and the region’s scenic countryside.

On Saturday afternoon, the streets overflow with excitement during the Giant Pumpkin Parade, a weekend highlight featuring floats, marching bands, local organizations, and pumpkins of every shape and size. Then on Sunday, the Antique and Classic Car Show takes center stage, showcasing hundreds of beautifully restored vehicles from across the region—an annual favorite for car buffs and casual admirers alike.

Beyond pumpkins, parades, and pie, the event celebrates the heart of the community. Local artisans display handmade crafts, musicians provide live entertainment, and families reconnect in an atmosphere of small-town charm. For many, attending the Pumpkin Festival has become a cherished autumn tradition that signals the official start of fall. For newcomers, it’s a chance to discover why this event has captured hearts for over 60 years.

Whether you’re eager to see a record-setting pumpkin, indulge in seasonal treats, or soak up the atmosphere, the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival offers something for everyone. Best of all, admission is free, making it one of Ohio’s most accessible and enjoyable fall getaways.

The festival runs September 24–27, 2026, in downtown Barnesville, Ohio. For a full schedule of events and details, see Visit Belmont County.

So, mark your calendar, bring your appetite, and join the celebration of pumpkins, community, and autumnal delight. The Barnesville Pumpkin Festival is waiting to welcome you with small-town warmth and pumpkin-filled fun!

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Take a Minute to See a Fully Reconstructed 18th-century Fort in Steubenville, Ohio

Hi, I’m the OhioTraveler, your Tour Guide to Fun.

Welcome to the Historic Fort Steuben
in Steubenville, Ohio.

It’s a fully reconstructed 18th-century fort
on its original site overlooking the Ohio River.

It was first built in 1786 to protect government surveyors
during the early days of America’s westward expansion.

It delivers a vivid glimpse into frontier military life.
Walking through the wooden barracks and blockhouse,
I could almost hear the echo of soldiers preparing for duty.

There’s even an archaeological dig site
and a building displaying the finds.

It’s a must-see for anyone interested in American history.