Posts with tag 'Things to do in Cincinnati'

June is Great Outdoors Month, and Ohio is a particularly beautiful place to spend some time outside in June. In every corner of the Buckeye State, an endless array of parks, lakes, rivers, and trails are just waiting to be explored. If you're looking for an outdoor adventure this month, be sure to check out these wild destinations in Ohio!

Geneva State Park

4499 Padanarum Rd., Geneva, OH 44041

Overlooking the vast expanse of Lake Erie in Northeast Ohio, Geneva State Park is one of the state's true gems when it comes to summer fun and relaxation. Geneva State Park includes a sandy swimming beach, beautiful picnic areas, and a campground with nearly 100 sites for tents and RVs. But one of the park's greatest attractions is fishing. Lake Erie provides some of the best fishing in America for walleye, perch, smallmouth bass, and other species. You'll find a marina and boat launch facilities along with a fishing pier and ample open shoreline in Geneva State Park.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

5793 Boston Mills Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264

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Cuyahoga Valley National Park feels worlds away from civilization despite being less than an hour from major cities like Cleveland and Akron. It is, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular outdoor attractions in Northeast Ohio. Spanning more than 50 square miles, the park follows the course of the Cuyahoga River through its namesake valley, providing a haven for native plants and wildlife. You can explore more than 125 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails within the park, including the beautiful Towpath Trail, which follows the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal. If you're experiencing Cuyahoga Valley National Park for the first time, the Boston Mills Visitor Center is a great place to start.

Rocky River Reservation

Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, OH 44070

One of 18 reservations that make up Cleveland's extensive Metroparks system, Rocky River Reservation is a long, narrow park that follows the meandering course of the Rocky River. Trails and other attractions draw visitors to both sides of the river, which is a prime waterway for fishing and paddling. But what makes the Rocky River Reservation really stand out is its equestrian trails, which stretch for miles through the riverside forests. It's one of the best destinations in Northeast Ohio for horseback riding. Rocky River Stables offers riding lessons and guided horseback riding trips.  

Alum Creek State Park

3305 S. Old State Rd., Delaware, OH 43015

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A popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports of all kinds, Alum Creek Lake is one of Ohio's largest reservoirs and is located just minutes from Columbus. The lake is long and narrow, making it ideal for water skiing and personal watercraft, but it also has plenty of secluded coves and shorelines perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Campgrounds, picnic areas, fishing access, and a swimming beach are located within Alum Creek State Park. Alum Creek Lake can get a little busy on summer weekends, so it's always a good idea to visit mid-week if you want to beat the crowds. 

ZipZone Outdoor Adventures

7925 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43235

We hope you aren't afraid of heights! ZipZone Outdoor Adventures offers one of the most thrilling, adrenaline-fueled outdoor adventures in Ohio, and you can experience it all without leaving the Columbus city limits. ZipZone provides a wide range of aerial thrills, including zip line tours high in the forest canopy, and an exciting treetop obstacle course with five routes and over 60 challenge elements. There's a ground-level kids' park as well, making ZipZone a great option for the entire family.

Hocking Hills State Park

19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138

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The entire Hocking Hills region has a reputation as one of Ohio's great outdoor playgrounds, a haven for everything from hiking and paddling to camping and fishing. Hocking Hills State Park, just over an hour southeast of Columbus, is one of the region's great destinations to enjoy all of the above. The park's rugged landscape includes towering cliffs, tumbling waterfalls, and dense, shady groves of hemlock trees crisscrossed by hiking trails. Campsites and cabins are available too. 

Little Miami National Scenic River Trail

211 Railroad Ave., Loveland, OH 45140

Flowing between Dayton and Cincinnati, the Little Miami River was one of the first streams in America to be designated a National Scenic River. It's one of Ohio's most beautiful paddling destinations, meandering through mile after mile of forests and farmland. The community of Loveland, OH is a popular place to begin paddling trips on the river. Guided trips and gear rentals are available through Loveland Canoe & Kayak. For anyone who prefers to stay on dry land, the river is paralleled by the 78-mile Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220

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Always one of Cincinnati's biggest summer attractions, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is operated with a commitment to inspiring visitors and helping preserve wildlife. One of the oldest zoos in the U.S., it's been open since 1873 and is currently home to the world-famous hippo Fiona. The adjoining botanical gardens are just as impressive, displaying a spectacular variety of Ohio native plants and trees, as well as non-native plants from around the world. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is frequently ranked among the best Zoos in America, although the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium gives it a run for its money! 

Mt. Airy Forest

5083 Colerain Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223

At 1,500 acres. Mt. Airy Forest is Cincinnati's largest park. It was also, at the time of its establishment in 1911, one of the earliest urban reforestation projects in U.S. history. Today, the park offers some of the best opportunities for Cincinnati residents to get off the grid and enjoy some time in the great outdoors. Mt. Airy forest is home to many miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as picnic areas, playgrounds, a dog park, disc golf course, and Ohio's only wheelchair-accessible public treehouse. 

Share Your Adventure

Ohio is filled with incredible destinations where you can immerse yourself in the natural world. Be sure to tell us all about your Great Outdoors Month adventures in the comments section!

One of the many advantages of living in Ohio is the abundance of unique shops in our area. When you're enjoying a Girls' Day Out and want to browse and buy some new clothes, or even an entire outfit, you'll have your choice of many unique boutiques, each with their own local flavor. Plan your day with a visit to some of these 9 Ohio boutiques:

Northeast Ohio

Allie M Designs Boutique 

2299 W. Market St., Akron, OH 43313  

Allie M Designs Boutique makes it easy to create an entire head-to-toe outfit, including chic clothing, jewelry, shoes, and accessories like handbags, scarves, and even face masks. You'll be able to find outfits perfect for a night out or comfy and casual clothes if you're staying in and relaxing. In addition to their new items, the boutique has a special section called Allie's Closet with pre-owned items. And if you're shopping for a gift, or love monogrammed items for yourself, you'll be able to find handbags, sweaters, and more that fit the bill. Hours are 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Tuesday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Friday, and 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday.

Evie Lou  

2509 Professor Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113

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If you like your clothes to be comfortable but don't want to sacrifice style, you'll find what you're looking for at Evie Lou. Shop for clothing, shoes, and accessories by popular designers including Cynthia Ashby, Rundholz, and My Soul. The shop can also help you select items that flatter your particular body type, whether you're long and lean, short and curvy, or somewhere in between. Hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, and noon-4 p.m. Sunday.

Jacklyn Wild Boutique

5892 Fulton Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718 

Jacklyn Wild Boutique was created for modern women who prefer creating their own trends rather than following others. The shop has a curated selection of women's clothing from independent designers who combine bohemian flair with retro style. And if you're one of the many women who have been working from home, you'll find recommended items that allow you to look appropriately chic while still being comfortable. In addition to clothing items, you'll also find home goods, baby clothing, pet products, and more at Jacklyn Wild Boutique. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday.

Columbus

THREAD

1110 Chambers Rd. Suite B, Columbus, OH 43212

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THREAD brings a "big city" mindset to Columbus, and when you walk into the store, you'll see a gorgeous space that reflects the store's mission of being accessible and inviting. You're welcome to enjoy a complimentary espresso or glass of wine and relax on the back patio if you'd like to. Whether you're looking for clothing from established designers or want to check out lines from designers who may be in their first season, you'll have a wide variety of items to choose from. In addition to clothing and accessories, the boutique also carries home and gift items including candles, kitchen items, and more. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, along with private shopping appointments available from 10 a.m.-noon and 5-6 p.m.

Ladybird  

716 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215   

Located in the heart of Columbus' Short North Arts District, Ladybird aims to offer a relaxed shopping experience while you shop for pieces that combine modern elegance with casual cool. Clothing items are fashion-forward creations by emerging designers, and they can be perfectly combined with the shop's vintage accessories. Hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4 p.m. Sunday, or by appointment.

Happy Go Lucky Home & Her

962 and 964 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

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Happy Go Lucky Home & Her is a combination of two boutiques in adjoining spaces, with one carrying women's apparel and the other offering lifestyle items. In the apparel boutique, you'll find stylish items from brands like Comfy USA and Johnny Was not usually offered in this area and in sizes ranging from 2 to 16. In the lifestyle shop, you'll be able to choose items such as custom upholstered furniture, wall art, and gifts. Hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday.

Cincinnati

Idlewild

1230 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

Located in Cincinnati's vibrant Over-the-Rhine district, Idlewood is owned by a family of three women who love art, design, and fashion. Each has her own unique perspective and talents, ranging from jewelry creation to photography to fashion design, and you'll be able to find some of their creations in the boutique. Hours are 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Sunday.

Soho Boutique

2757 Observatory Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208

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Shop for contemporary clothing and accessories that are practical yet sophisticated at Soho Boutique. Most of their pieces are created by female designers, and they've been handpicked by the shop's buyers. The owner and manager are happy to discuss styles and trends and help you find the right fit for the best version of yourself. From sunglasses to dresses to swimwear, you'll be able to find a wide variety of items you'll need to create a distinctive wardrobe. Hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Thursday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday, and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday.

Sloane Boutique

1216 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

Sloane Boutique was the first women's clothing store in Cincinnati's OTR and mixes edgy styles with touches of modern femininity. The shop offers pieces in a range of prices, aiming to provide items that are effortlessly chic and unique yet still affordable. You'll find items that are sourced from talented designers from throughout the world as well as those who call Cincinnati home. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday, and noon-6 p.m. Thursday-Saturday.

Shop 'Til You Drop

What are some of your favorite boutiques to explore when your wardrobe needs an update? 

From improving your mood to strengthening your immune system, there are many benefits of going outside and taking a walk. The Cincinnati area is full of parks and outdoor areas perfect for everyone, from hardcore hikers to casual dog walkers. 

Next time you want to get some exercise and enjoy the great outdoors, consider visiting one of these eight beautiful parks. 

Buttercup Valley Preserve

1558 Stanford Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45223

Located in Cincinnati's Northside neighborhood, Buttercup Valley Preserve is a great option for avid nature hikers. The trails are very wooded, with steep inclines that will offer you a bit of a challenge. This trail is nestled in the middle of some of the city's best neighborhoods and is an excellent getaway that will make you forget that you're still in the city. 

You'll find lots of flora and fauna in the preserve, including some trees that are over 200 years old. There are multiple walking and hiking trails here, including one that will provide a memorable view of Spring Grove Cemetery. 

Ault Park

5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208

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As the highest point in Hyde Park, Ault park offers stunning views of the city. It's home to a 1.4-mile walking, hiking, and mountain biking trail that is one of the city's best-kept secrets. 

This trail is hilly and will offer a bit of a challenge. However, once you get through it, you'll find that the beautiful views, scenery, and wildlife are well worth the effort. Many residents and visitors agree that this is one of the most beautiful parks in the Cincinnati area. 

Ohio River Trail

Riverside Dr. & Corbin St., Cincinnati, OH 45226

You can't beat the views on the Ohio River Trail. Once it's complete, this 23-mile trail will span along the north bank of the river. It runs from Coney Island through downtown to Sayler Park. While areas are still under construction, you can still enjoy 10 miles of it now. When it's completed, it will connect downtown to the Little Miami Scenic Trail and eventually extend all the way to Lake Erie. 

There are many fun things to do here, including swinging on the 2-3 person swings, splashing in the interactive fountain, and riding the carousel. This family-friendly series of trails are ideal for running, walking, and biking. It's perfect for people of all ages and fitness levels. 

Red Bird Hollow Trail

6168 Given Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243

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An easy urban trail with a lot of foot traffic, Red Bird Hollow Trail offers a nice walk near the river with plenty to see. It's a 3-mile in-and-out trail that's popular for running, hiking, and nature walks. We recommend starting at the top of the trail where you'll find plenty of parking spots. 

This trail is also dog-friendly, although you must keep your furry friend on a leash while your walk. Generally, it's safest and most pleasant to use this trail between April and October. 

French Park

3012 Section Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45237

One of the area's most underrated parks, French Park offers several looping trails that are good for walkers of all skill levels. Some areas offer a moderate challenge and a few inclines that might even qualify as strenuous. 

This is an excellent kid-friendly trail. Little ones especially love heading down by the creek to explore. When you finish your walk, plan to drive to the top of the park to enjoy a beautiful view and a picnic lunch.

Mt. Airy Forest

5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223

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The 1,459-acre Mt. Airy Forest is Cincinnati's largest park. It offers miles of hiking trails, a multi-use mountain biking trail, and bridle trails for horseback riders. It also has an enclosed dog park, disc golf, and Ohio's only wheelchair-accessible public treehouse. There are also picnic tables, charcoal grills, and swing sets, so you and the family can relax and spend an entire day exploring the park and taking in the beautiful scenery. 

Mill Creek Greenway Trail 

Mill Creek Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45233

The multi-use Mill Creek Greenway Trail currently spans just three and a half miles along the historic Mill Creek. However, plans are in the works to someday extend it to run over 50 miles and link to the Ohio River Trail. 

There's a lot of cool stuff to see, including the Freedom Tree Edible Garden, where you're free to pick an apple or a pear and enjoy a tasty snack. You'll also want to visit the trail after dark so you can check out the 3/4-mile Space Walk, a 3.5-billion-to-one scale model of the solar system. Whether you prefer to walk, run, or bike, you'll want to add this trail to your list of "must-visit" sites.

California Woods Nature Preserve

5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230

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The 113-acre California Woods Nature Preserve features more than 200 species of plants and 53 species of trees. Lick Run Creek also runs through the preserve. Here you'll find small fish, kingfishers, snapping turtles, beavers, ducks, and more.

There's also a hummingbird and butterfly garden in front of the nature center. If you keep your eyes peeled, you might see some woodpeckers and great horned owls as well. When you hike these trails, there's a good chance you'll get so caught up in the scenery that you'll forget you're also exercising. 

These Shoes Were Made for Walking

Which walk-worthy park will you visit first?

There's never a wrong day to enjoy a great slice of pizza! Just in case you needed an excuse though, you'll be glad to know that National Pizza Day is right around the corner. 

We are lucky to have so many dining incredible options in Cincinnati. From high-end restaurants with gourmet pies to mom-and-pop pizza joints with some of the best slices of town — there's something for every taste. Not sure where to start? Here are a few of our favorites. 

Goodfellas Pizzeria

1211 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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If you love authentic, NY-style pizza, you're going to love Goodfella's Pizzeria. Their menu features all of the classics, build-your-own pizzas and calzones, and some great specialty pizzas. Feeling adventurous? Try the "Fuhgetaboutit" — a pizza topped with every available topping!

While you're there, make sure you plan to visit their Wiseguy Lounge, a 1920s prohibition-style bar where you'll find craft cocktails, high-end bourbons, rich leather sofas, and knowledgable, well-dress bartenders who are ready and willing to create the perfect craft cocktail to satisfy your cravings. 

Adriatico's

113 W. McMillan Ave. Cincinnati, OH 45219

Another excellent option for NY-style pizza, Adriatico's offers hand-tossed, extra-think, and deep-dish Sicilian pizzas. The restaurant has been voted "best pizza" according to several publications, including Cincinnati Magazine and City Beat. Build your own pizza or try some of their specialty pies like the Hawaiian, Chicken Bacon Ranch, or the "Inflation Fighter" with mushrooms, onions, peppers, olives, sausage, ham, beef, and pepperoni. 

If you enjoy desserts, you're in luck. They also have 12 rotating flavors of gelato, with pints available for carryout and delivery. 

TAGLIO Columbia Tusculum

3531 Columbia Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45226

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If you haven't tried the incredible Detroit deep-dish gourmet pizzas at TAGLIO yet, you're missing out! With flavors like Prosciutto Artichoke, Greek Veggie, and Pepperoni + Hot Honey, there's so much to love. They also carry all the traditional pizza flavors including Spicy Italian, Bianco, and the "Old Schooler." Don't forget to add some crust dips. With flavors like Garlic + EVOO, Spicy Garlic, and Creamy Gorgonzola, they're well worth the extra dollar. 

Ramundo's Pizzeria

3166 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208

Ramundo's Pizzeria has been pleasing local customers for over 20 years. They've also been voted "Best Pizza Sauce in the City" by Cincinnati Magazine. 

Choose a slice of traditional NY-style pizza or one of their specialty pies. One of their most popular pizzas is the Prosciutto, Lettuce, and Tomato (PLT) pizza. It's made with garlic-infused olive oil, prosciutto, mozzarella, and provolone. After it's baked, it's topped with romaine lettuce, tomato, salt, pepper, and a drizzle of mayo. Don't be scared; it's one of the best pizzas you'll ever eat!

Looking for something more traditional? You can't go wrong with "Uncle Frank's Special," made with homemade Italian sausage, homemade meatballs, and fresh sliced garlic. 

Trio Bistro

7565 Kenwood Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45236

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For a more upscale pizza experience, you'll want to visit Trio Bistro. It's been one of the area's premier dining destinations for over 20 years. Guests love the restaurant's excellent food, attentive staff, and casual charm. 

They offer traditional and Margherita flatbreads and pizzas. However, we recommend some of their more exciting options. Other pizza flavors on the menu include Mexican, BBQ, Mediterranean, Thai, and Smoked Salmon! 

Catch-a-Fire Pizza

3301 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209

Catch-a-Fire Pizza prides itself on making creative, delicious wood-fired cuisine using fresh ingredients that are locally sourced whenever possible. It's located inside the taproom Madtree Brewing so you can enjoy this incredible pizza alongside some of the best beer the city has to offer. The menu features Classic Italian and Classic American pizzas with a variety of interesting topping combinations. On weekends, you can also enjoy brunch pizzas in flavors like Green Eggs & Ham, Tequila Sunrise, and Hangover Pie. 

Looking for an adventure? Head over to their Blue Ash location and book one of their heated igloos. This one of the most exciting dining experiences you'll ever have! The igloos seat up to eight guests and even have Bluetooth speakers so you and your friends can enjoy your favorite tunes while you eat. 

Werkhaus Pizza

3637 Werk Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248

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A west side tradition for over 20 years, Werkhaus Pizza serves traditional and stuffed pizzas. The latter is made with two light layers of dough stuffed with fresh ingredients and topped with their house sauce. 

If you like pizza with a pan-fried crust and plenty of cheese, this family-owned Italian restaurant is soon going to become one of your favorites.   

Trotta's Pizza & Drive Thru

3501 Werk Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248

Well-known for the generous toppings and incredible crust, Trotta's Pizza is another Cincinnati favorite. They offer traditional, Sicilian, and extra-thin crusts and a huge variety of toppings. Build your own or try some of their amazing specialty pizzas in flavors like Hot Wing, Chili Dip, Taco, BLT, Hawaiian, Steak, Ricotta Cheese, and Salami Roll-Up. 

They offer a convenient drive-thru and also carry a wide selection of beers. 

Bub's Pizza Bar Mt. Lookout

3200 Linwood Ave. Suite #2, Cincinnati, OH 45226

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When you get a late-night pizza craving, look no further than Bub's Pizza Bar. They're open until 2 am during the week and 3:30 am on Friday and Saturday nights. Not only is the pizza delicious, but the portions are huge, giving you a great value for the money. Flavorful and filling, it's everything you want after a night out on the town. 

Choose a traditional pizza or some of their exciting flavors like Pesto and Goat Cheese, Goetta and Onion, and Extreme Pepperoni. They also offer a Vegan Pizza with a soy-free, dairy-free crust, marinara sauce, vegan cheese, and up to five veggie toppings.

Mac's Pizza Pub

205 W. McMillan St., Cincinnati, OH 45219

Known for their cold beer, hot pizza, and happy customers, Mac's Pizza Pub is the ultimate laid-back pizza joint. Everything here is fresh-made, including the dough that's made in-house daily and the pizza sauce. They also grind their own cheese, slice all of their own vegetables, have their sausage fresh-ground, and use local ingredients whenever they can.  

Stick with a traditional pizza or choose some of their fun specialties like the Pesto Primavera, Flying Pig, French Fry Pie, or Nashville Hot. 

Not to Be Cheesy, But... 

Which of these great pizza restaurants will steal your heart? 

Did you know the Center of the World is in Ohio? Yes, there actually is an unincorporated community by that name near Youngstown, not far from the Pennsylvania state line.

But there are a number of truly compelling reasons why one of the state's slogans is, "Center of the Universe." If you're looking for a new home in 2021, here are a dozen fascinating features that make a great case for finding it in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati.

1. Cleveland Rocks!
    
   

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   America's musical legacy includes genres from country to gospel, but none is more deeply entrenched in our country's spirit than rock and roll. Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed coined that iconic term, so it's only fitting that the city was chosen to be the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Designed by legendary architect I.M. Pei, the Hall was dedicated in 1995 and includes 338 inductees. 
   
   
2. Marching to a Different Drum
   
   Most big cities have a number of first-class historical, scientific, and art museums, and Cleveland is no exception. But if you prefer exploring culture that's a little offbeat, you're in luck. Cleveland features several delightfully quirky collections that pay tribute to the weirder side of life. Start your journey by checking out the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and the Dittrick Museum of Medical History.
   
   
3. Thrills, Chills, and Spills
   
   

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   Lake Erie's shoreline is also the site of another type of rockin' and rollin'. Cedar Point in Sandusky proudly bears the title of "Roller Coaster Capital of the World." With its world-record 71 rides, 17 of which are roller coasters, the park has been an annual summer tradition for countless families. As the second-oldest amusement park in the United States, Cedar Point's humble beginnings date back to 1870, when it consisted of a public beach, beer garden, and dance floor.
   
   
4. Dotting the "I"
   
   More than 60,000 students can't be wrong: Ohio State University is one of the largest and most prestigious institutes of higher learning in the country. OSU's top academic programs are matched by collegiate sports teams that frequently sit atop the national rankings. The marching band's halftime performance of Script Ohio, with a sousaphone player dotting the "i," has become one of the most enduring and beloved traditions of Saturday afternoon football games at the "Horseshoe."
   
   
5. I Triple-Dog Dare Ya!
   
   

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   Warm, witty, and relatable, A Christmas Story has become a holiday classic for all ages. Reenact your favorite scenes at the actual house that served as the Parker family home, located in Cleveland's historic and elegant Tremont neighborhood. Right across the street is the companion museum, where you can view memorabilia such as Randy's snowsuit and purchase your very own "fra-gee-lay" leg lamp.  
   
   
6. Prost!
   
   With the rise of microbreweries, domestic beers began to rival imports in terms of variety and quality. Hipster towns such as Denver, Seattle, and Portland are often considered leaders in this movement, but did you know that Columbus ranks in the top five U.S. cities for craft beer production?  Untappd, an app focusing on all things beer-related, gives high marks to local favorites Hoof Hearted, Pretentious Barrel House, and Columbus Brewing Company.
   
   
7. All Roads Lead to Columbus
   
   

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   Do you enjoy having family and friends come to visit? It's a little-known and astonishing fact that 48 percent of the U.S. population lives within a 500-mile radius of Columbus. Major urban centers such as Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. are no more than a day's drive away. Toronto and Ottawa are also within that radius, adding some international flair.
   
   
8. Fast Food Nation
   
   As the birthplace of Wendy's and Buffalo Wild Wings and the headquarters of White Castle, Columbus has plenty of fast food cred. That's just one of the reasons why the city has become well-known as Test Market, USA. Thrillist, Business Insider, and other sources have long noted that Columbus is the go-to for Starbucks, Burger King, and other national brands testing new products. The city's diverse demographics are valued as an ideal cross-section of the national population.
   
   
9. Living on the Square in Cincinnati
   
   

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   Fans of classic sitcoms immediately recognize Fountain Square from its cameo in the opening credits of WKRP in Cincinnati. As downtown's shopping, entertainment, and cultural hub, Fountain Square is truly the heart and soul of this vibrant city.
   
   
10. Crossing the Line
    
    Cincinnati's fabulousness can't be contained by just one state. The metropolitan area spills across the Ohio River into Kentucky, incorporating such charming cities as Florence, Union, and Walton. Cross the historic, Brooklyn Bridge-esque John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge to travel from Cincinnati to Covington, which is the actual home of the Cincinnati International Airport.
     
11. It's All About the Chili
    
    

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    Chili is a dish that lends itself to a wide range of ingredients and preparations. But Cincinnati still managed to put itself on the culinary map with a unique version that keeps people coming back for more. More of a sauce than a stew or soup, Cincinnati chili is almost always served on top of hot dogs or spaghetti noodles. Unexpected seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate give the chili a Mediterranean flavor. Order it 3-way topped with cheddar cheese, add onions or beans to make it 4-way, or go for the works with 5-way. 
    
    
12. The Color Purple
    
    Get a good workout or embrace eco-friendly forms of transportation with a brisk walk across the Newport Southbank Bridge. The span, familiarly known as the Purple People Bridge due to its distinctive color, is a half-mile-long pedestrian bridge connecting Cincinnati and Newport, KY. 

The Three Cs

Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati: which one is the perfect fit for you?