Posts from April 2017
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April
28
28
Things to do in Cleveland and on Lake Erie Over Memorial Day Weekend
Memorial Day is nearly upon us. This time to remember and pay respect to our country's fallen soldiers warrants a day off from school and work (and rightfully so), and many also consider it the beginning of summer. If the warm weather and beach-goers haven't convinced you to get outside and celebrate, we're sure we can tempt you with some of the summery events happening over the weekend in Cleveland and on the shores of Lake Erie.
We've rounded up some of our favorites below, so don your white pants and your swimsuit, and get ready to make this the best Memorial Day yet.
Memorial Day weekend also marks the beginning of Sandusky's Ohio Bike Week. Even if thundering motorcycles aren't really your thing, you'll enjoy marveling at the displays of gleaming metal and impressive beards that will set Sandusky apart during the week. There will also be exciting live performances, a great selection of activities, and plenty of food to keep you entertained.
Blossom Time Festival
May 25-28
Photo courtesy of Blossom Time Festival
Celebrate the beginning of summer with one of the most colorful parties in the area. The annual Blossom Time Festival takes place in downtown Chagrin Falls, and includes carnival rides, a hot air balloon glow, a pie-eating contest, and plenty of other family-friendly activities. Additionally, guests are invited to get a taste of Chagrin, with more than 20 food trucks and local vendors serving up bites and sips throughout the weekend.Berea's National Rib Cook-off
May 26-29
Photo courtesy of Berea's National Rib Cook-off
For the 19th year in a row, barbecue connoisseurs, meat lovers and ribbing experts will come together to celebrate the carnivore's favorite entrée: ribs. Meander through the fairgrounds at Berea's National Rib Cook-off, snacking on a tasty morsel from tens of local vendors while enjoying live music and family-friendly games and activities. There's no doubt about it — this event is finger lickin' good.Tremont Greek Festival
May 26-29 While you don't have to be Greek to enjoy the Tremont Greek Festival, you do have to enjoy Greek food, Greek bevvies and Greek dancing. Somehow, we don't think that will be a problem! Visit Cleveland's historic Tremont neighborhood for a taste of all the above, and enjoy a variety of Greek performances and shopping from local vendors. Can you say "Opa?"Memorial Day Weekend at Put-in-Bay
May 26-29 Memorial Day Weekend is one of the most popular weekends at Put-in-Bay, welcoming visitors from all over the Great Lakes region. Whether you hop on the ferry for a day trip or reserve a hotel for the weekend, there are plenty of activities to take part in — especially on Saturday! While you're not basking in the sun and taking in all this island has to offer, enjoy performances from popular entertainers, a gorgeous Memorial Day service at Perry's Victory, and a grand parade on monday featuring antique cars.Main Street Port Clinton Walleye Festival
May 25-29
Photo courtesy of the Main Street Port Clinton Walleye Festival
The annual Main Street Port Clinton Walleye Festival is one of the most anticipated events in the area, and it's easy to see why! For its 37th year, the event will invite locals and visitors alike (including over 100 vendors from around the nation) to take part in an array of free live concerts, tasty food and beverages, and outdoor activities on the picturesque shores of Lake Erie. Highlights will include a kids fishing derby, a grand parade and the Walleye 5K race.Ohio Bike Week at Sandusky
May 26-June 4
Memorial Day weekend also marks the beginning of Sandusky's Ohio Bike Week. Even if thundering motorcycles aren't really your thing, you'll enjoy marveling at the displays of gleaming metal and impressive beards that will set Sandusky apart during the week. There will also be exciting live performances, a great selection of activities, and plenty of food to keep you entertained.
Cedar Point Shores Opening Weekend
May 26-28 This lakeside amusement park is known as the roller coaster capital of the world, but it also has one heck of a water park. Cedar Point Shores will open on Memorial Day Weekend, offering a swimmin' good time to fun-loving Ohioans of all ages, plus four new water attractions! Get a first look at the new waterslides, Point Plummet and the Portside Plunge, or enjoy some family fun at Lemmy's Lagoon and Lakeside Landing. The beginning of summer means it's beach season, so celebrate by taking a dip!
April
27
27
Cleveland Restaurants Featured on Diners, Drive ins and Dives
Guy Fieri made a name for himself back in 2007, when he starred in the first episode of Diners, Drive-ins and Dives. Since then he has continued on a career path that can only be defined as a dream job, traveling across the country to sample the greasiest, tastiest, most satisfying cuisine America can offer. If anyone has watched this show while hungry, you know what a mistake that can be.
Luckily, we're here to satisfy those cravings. Cleveland is home to more than a few spots that were deemed worthy by Fieri himself, including a grilled cheese mecca, a farm-to-table breakfast joint offering legendary biscuits and gravy, and a chic modern Mexican cafe with six guacamoles. We've gathered them here for you so you can get a true taste of Cleveland comfort food. Enjoy!
Melt Bar & Grilled
(Aired 2/08/2010) Craving a grilled cheese? Of course you are. Look no further than Cleveland's Melt Bar & Grilled, which serves everything from a gooey, crispy classic grilled cheese to the Wake & Bacon (with an egg and hickory bacon), and the Mighty Macaroni (with creamy, homemade macaroni battered and deep fried). Hankering for something with a bit more substance? Opt for the Korean War Big, with Korean BBQ pulled pork, seared pork belly, kimchi slaw, pear onion cilantro relish, and muenster cheese. Regardless of your choice, we're sure your sandwich will leave you cheesin' with joy. Melt Bar & Grilled also chooses a different charity to donate to each month — and what's better than eating for charity? The beloved grilled cheese joint in Cleveland was featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives on February 8, 2010, and has since expanded to include 12 locations across Ohio. Look for a new location in Cedar Point opening this Memorial Day Weekend!Lucky's Cafe
(Aired 10/12/2009)
Photos courtesy of Lucky's Cafe
This coffee shop turned restaurant in Tremont has truly redefined the meaning of "cooking from scratch." Here, you'll find the epitome of comfort food, including fluffy cheddar scallion biscuits topped with sausage gravy and a classic reuben with house-brined corned beef. The beloved cafe sources as much as it can from local farmers and vendors, grows its veggies in the garden out back, and makes all of the breads and pastries in house. Can breakfast get any better than that? We think not. Bonus: Lucky's Cafe was featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives in October, 2009, but soon after, Iron Chef's Michael Simon stopped in to try the biscuits and gravy, which he deemed "soul-satisfying."Parkview Nite Club
(Aired 10/26/2009) This self-proclaimed "cool place for shady people" is steeped in history. The now nightclub was actually established in 1898 as L. Schlater Brewing Company, and went on to become a speakeasy in the '20s, and a working man's bar in the 50's before it found its current owners in 1993. Parkview is popular for lunch, during which it serves up home-style entrées like the honey chipotle pork tacos, or the ever-satisfying smoked salmon BLT. Swing by on a crowded weekend evening, you'll be treated to energetic live performances from local and national acts. There's no doubt about it — Parkview is the spot for a laid-back good time with great food.Geraci's Restaurant
(Aired 1/16/2009)
Photo courtesy of Geraci's Restaurant
This old-school pizza joint has been family-owned for more than 60 years, perfecting age-old recipes that have been passed from generation to generation. The daughters of the original owners still run the place, and you'll find them meandering the dining room, making conversation with loyal customers. Locals flock for mainstays like the no-frills pepperoni pizza, assembled with dough that's made fresh several times a day. The meatballs are nothing to scoff at either, made from a recipe developed in Sicily that has been unchanged since. Regardless of what you choose, you'll be able to taste the history and the love that went into the menu. Make sure to bring cash — credit cards are a no-go here.Sterle's Slovenian Country House
(Aired 1/11/2010)
Photo courtesy of Alex Pogrebinsky via Sterle's Slovenian Country House
It's not just the amazing food that makes Sterle's Slovenian Country House stand out — the friendly atmosphere and family-style dining experience make every visit to this beloved standby memorable. A meal is $24 per person, and it'll come with heaping portions of pickles and pretzels, pork schnitzel, beer-braised sausage, pierogies and much more cooked up by acclaimed chef Natasha Pogrebinsky. Additionally, you'll be treated to some of the best brews around in Szemerszky's Bier Garden, and lively performances from accordian-bearing polka bands several nights a week.Momocho
(Aired 3/22/2010)
Photos courtesy of Momocho
Guy Fieri stopped by this small, modern Mexican cafe for the guacamole served six ways (goat cheese, crab, pineapple, pecorino, smoked trout, etc.), but there's so much more to Momocho than the beloved appetizer. The small dining room means the chefs can make everything fresh to order, doing away with the freezers and heat lamps that accompany so many other Mexican restaurants. Stand out items include the Dos Equis-braised beef short rib tamales with red & green mole sauces and crema, or the crab and smoked trout tostadas with tomatillo verde, black beans, queso mixto and a fried egg to top it all off. You really can't go wrong here, as long as you're willing to chase down your choice with a house-made margarita (or a sampler of three flavors).Bon Appetît!
Now, please excuse us as we eat ourselves into a stupor.
April
20
20
11 Columbus Date Night Ideas that Don't Involve Going to a Restaurant
The weekend has finally arrived, so it's time to plan date night! While there is no shortage of fantastic restaurants in the Columbus area, maybe the time has come to shake up your traditional dinner and a movie routine. Whether you're on a first date or going out on the town with your sweetheart of 20 years, there are plenty of fun activities in our beloved town that are sure to provide a good time and even better memories.
We've rounded up some of our best date night ideas, from letting your inner child soar at a bounce park, to romantic sunset picnics. All you have to do is choose what to try first!
Pack your picnic basket with the essentials (wine and cheese, of course), and head out to Schiller Park to catch sunset. There's nothing quite as romantic as sharing a picnic on a blanket in a beautiful park. Schiller, nestled in the famed German Village, is certainly one of the prettiest around, but also has an interesting history. The 23.5-acre park was established in 1857, originally dubbed Stewart's Grove. In 1891 however, the park was renamed for the famous German poet, Friedrich Von Schiller, who is forever commemorated by his statue in the center of the park. In World War I, when American sentiment was anti-German, the park was named after Washington (along with several nearby streets), but luckily the change didn't last long. Due to the poetic nature of this Columbus gem, it is only fitting it is named after an artist! Enjoy your packed meal here among the trees and beautiful scenery, and hit a nearby pub for cocktails in the German Village afterward.
Fly High at Sky Zone
Love is in the air (literally) at Sky Zone. While trampoline parks are now common, Sky Zone in Columbus was the first indoor bounce park in the nation, and is filled from wall-to-wall with massive floor trampolines. Flit and fly across the floor, and then flip into a foam pit filled with 10,000 cubes. If you're feeling competitive, position yourself across from your date on the trampoline dodgeball court. It's a workout like you've never experienced, and your inner child will be grateful for the gigglin' good time.Catch a Concert at EXPRESS LIVE!
Located in the Arena District, EXPRESS LIVE! is Columbus's most desirable venue for nationally renowned acts, offering both indoor and outdoor accommodations as well as state-of-the-art acoustics. There are more than 100 events to choose from every year, so check out the schedule and pick a night to experience the sound with your beloved! There's sure to be an artist you both love on the agenda.Picnic in Schiller Park
Pack your picnic basket with the essentials (wine and cheese, of course), and head out to Schiller Park to catch sunset. There's nothing quite as romantic as sharing a picnic on a blanket in a beautiful park. Schiller, nestled in the famed German Village, is certainly one of the prettiest around, but also has an interesting history. The 23.5-acre park was established in 1857, originally dubbed Stewart's Grove. In 1891 however, the park was renamed for the famous German poet, Friedrich Von Schiller, who is forever commemorated by his statue in the center of the park. In World War I, when American sentiment was anti-German, the park was named after Washington (along with several nearby streets), but luckily the change didn't last long. Due to the poetic nature of this Columbus gem, it is only fitting it is named after an artist! Enjoy your packed meal here among the trees and beautiful scenery, and hit a nearby pub for cocktails in the German Village afterward.
Cheer on The Columbus Clippers
Photo courtesy of Joe Santry via the Columbus Clippers
When the weather gets warmer, buy yourself some peanuts and cracker jacks and take yourself out to the ballgame! The Columbus Clippers play on summer evenings at Huntington Park, which has been named the best ballpark in the nation. Root, root, root for the home team alongside your sweetheart. This is a great opportunity to see where his or her loyalties truly lie. Go Clippers!Go Rock Climbing at Vertical Adventures
Photo courtesy of Cooper Fenske Photography via Vertical Adventures
Rock climbing is a fun and challenging way to work your mind and your body at the same time, and it's even more fun when you take your honey along with you! Whether you're belaying or bouldering (no ropes), you will work together to help each other complete problems and reach the top. And bringing a plus one means you'll always have a partner to hold the ropes. Just don't tick them off while you're on the wall — your life is in their hands. On your first visit to Vertical Adventures, you have the option to start bouldering right away, or take Rope 101: Intro to Climbing. This class is $39 a person, but includes your lesson, equipment, and a two week trial at the gym.Watch a Blue Jackets Game at Arena District
No list would be complete without Columbus's beloved Blue Jackets, which play during the winter months in the Arena District. Don your red, white and blue apparel, and get ready to hoot and holler along to what is bound to be a thrilling game — the Blue Jackets always put on a show for their fans.Bowl in Style at Star Lanes Polaris
Photo courtesy of Star Lanes Polaris
We see you rolling your eyes — bowling is nothing new. But when you reserve a lane at Star Lanes Polaris, you can count on a party. It's bowling like you've never seen it before. Grab a bite and cocktails at the Point Bar & Grill before hitting the pins. Far from typical bowling food, the cuisine here is contemporary, made fresh to order, and delicious as heck. Then grab your shoes, pick out a ball, and aim for the pins in a black-lit setting with private suites and quirky decor.See a Drive-in Movie
Make movie night a bit more interesting by hitting the drive-in theatre. You'll be able to catch the latest hits from the comfort of your own car, enjoying a picnic dinner and your choice of bevvie in the front seats or from a blanket. If you have the time, you can stay and enjoy two movies for just over $9 a person — well worth it for a fun and cozy night out with your plus one.Go Wine Tasting at Wine on High
Photo courtesy of Wine on High
Ready to wind down with a glass or two of your favorite label? Or looking to try something new? This locally-owned shop is home to more than 300 varieties of wine, all of which are available to enjoy by the glass, in a tasting, or in a bottle that you can take home with you. Kick back with your sweetheart and take in the upscale atmosphere while you sip and savor to your heart's content. We recommend pairing your choice with a charcuterie board, filled with artisan cheeses and meats.Create a Work of Art at Wine & Canvas
What's better than drinking a glass of wine with your sweetheart? Sipping that wine while creating an awesome work of art to hang in your lovely home! At Wine & Canvas, you'll find all of your supplies waiting for you before you sit down, and learn to paint the featured piece while an instructor patiently guides your strokes. You'll have some liquid courage from the wine, so go ahead — paint the town red!Catch a Performance at Shadowbox Live
Photo courtesy of Tommy Fiesel Shadowbox Live
The Shadowbox Live troupe produces a wide variety of theatrical shows each year, ranging from rock operas and traditional musicals to contemporary dances and comedy shows. Currently Columbus residents can catch the popular sketch comedy, the Lunchbox on select Fridays, Evolutionaries (the stories of Prince and Bowie) through June 22, and so much more.Have a Great Date!
April
20
20
The 15 Best Places to Go Camping in Ohio
The summer months are finally upon us, bringing with them a break from school and the opportunity to bring the family together for a weekend under the stars — that's right, it's camping time. May through September are the best months for pitching a tent and enjoying the beautiful sunshine in Ohio, and with so little time and so many stunning places across the state, it can be tough to land on a location.
Whether you're into a luxe cabin retreat, a simple tent excursion, a dog-friendly spot or an RV trip, we've compiled a list of our favorite camping spots in Ohio to get you started. Break out the marshmallows and the graham crackers, because these gorgeous campgrounds will leave you wanting s'more time off from work.
Hocking Hills
Photo courtesy of Hocking Hills
The Hocking Hills region, with its beautiful scenery and entertaining attractions, is a popular spot to visit year-round. But in the warmer months, the campgrounds are bustling with Ohio locals and travelers alike, anxious to soak in all that the area has to offer. Choose to stay in a traditional Sioux-style tipi (perfect for a romantic weekend) or settle down at a spot near the famed Old Man's Cave and hike around the stunning waterfalls and sandstone formations by day.Alum Creek State Park
Located just minutes from Ohio's capital city, Alum Creek State Park offers endless opportunities for fun under the sun — be it horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, fishing, boating or water skiing. The recreational area spans more than 4,630 acres in addition to the large lake, and there are 286 campsites at the main campground, each with electricity, water, and even WiFi (but we doubt you'll need that when you're surrounded by such beautiful scenery). There are also eight cabins to rent within the park, and a number of primitive campgrounds for those who like to rough it.Lake Loramie State Park
This 407-acre state park north of Dayton offers a quiet retreat in rural Ohio. Stay the night in a shady campsite by the lake, and enjoy swimming or boating in the lazy waters of Loramie Lake all weekend long. The park is dog-friendly, so bring man's best friend along for the ride.Wolf Creek Park
Photo courtesy of Sandusky Park District County
Wolf Creek Park is nestled along the scenic Sandusky River just south of Fremont, and provides a natural oasis for locals looking for a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of it all. The Buckeye Trail (a renowned statewide trail) runs straight through the park, but campers can also enjoy canoeing or fishing on the river, and cooking dinner on the community grills.Tappan Lake Park
With beautiful scenery, live music on the weekends, basketball and volleyball courts, and endless activities on and off the water, it's not tough to see why this park is so popular. The 200 camping sites go quickly during the summer, so make sure to reserve your spot in advance.Kelleys Island State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
Kelleys Island is the most popular camping destination of the Erie Islands, known as the "Emerald Isle." It's a great retreat for nature enthusiasts, offering access to unique geological, ecological and archaeological features. Enjoy the stunning scenery and views of the great lake while engaging in activities such as swimming, hiking, boating and fishing. Plus, the ferry ride from Marblehead to get there is an adventure in itself!Leith Run Campground, Wayne National Forest
Photo courtesy of Recreation.gov
Grassy, shaded campsites and picnic areas are the name of the game at this quiet, picturesque retreat on the Ohio River. Hike a short distance from the site on the Camping Bridge Scenic Byway, which will take you over four historic covered bridges and offer romantic views of the surrounding countryside. Don't forget to make a wish as you cross each bridge — it's tradition.Hueston Woods State Park
This gigantic state park spans nearly 3,000 acres of land, and surrounds the picturesque Acton Lake. With campsites, cabins for rent, and even a luxurious resort lodge, the opportunities for enjoying this little slice of heaven are endless. Activities include horseback riding, swimming, picnicking in the shade, hiking, miniature golf and so much more.John Bryan State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
Arguably the prettiest park in western Ohio, this 752-acre park attracts visitors from all across the state. Its claim to fame is the stunning limestone gorge cut by the Little Miami River, part of which is designated as a national landmark. Bring the whole family (even the dog) to take in the beauty and enjoy the countless activities the park has to offer.Shawnee State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
Nestled in Shawnee State Forest and along the banks of the Ohio River is the picturesque Shawnee State Park Campground. This area was once the hunting grounds of the Shawnee Indians, but now offers a secluded retreat for campers. Enjoy boating, hiking, fishing (the works), or just sit back and admire the beautiful carved valleys and wooded hills that are famously known as "The Little Smokies."Mohican State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
25 cabins and 118 campsites dot the rugged but beautiful landscape of Mohican State Park. Take your pick of lodging options (make sure to make a reservation) and get ready for a weekend of fun on the Mohican River, which is known as one of the finest kayaking locations in Ohio. If biking is more your thing, the Mohican mountain biking trail traverses 24.5 miles and has been named the #1 mountain bike trail in Ohio according to Mountain Bike Action Magazine.Indian Lake State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
This gem in southwestern Ohio offers a beachside camping experience. Enjoy eating s'mores with the family under the shade of the large trees, letting the kids play at one of the playgrounds, and renting paddle boats.Five Rivers MetroParks
Photo courtesy of Five Rivers MetroParks
What better spot to enjoy nature than at your local MetroPark? These places feel like a different world, but are conveniently located just minutes from your door. There are four metroparks that welcome camping and are popular across the state, including Possum Creek, Twin Creek, Englewood and Germantown. Take your pick and pitch your tent for a weekend under the stars!William H. Harsha Lake
Located on the East Fork of the Little Miami River and 22 miles from Cincinnati, William H. Harsha Lake is a fantastic location for all outdoor recreation activities. The park is protected by the Army Corps of Engineers, and is the site of two abandoned gold mines (although we don't think you'll find much of the rare metal lying around). Enjoy the 40 miles of shoreline, and settle down at one of the many surrounding campsites.Mosquito Lake State Park
Photo courtesy of Reserve America
Don't let the name scare you away — there are no more mosquitos at this lake than at any other campground in Ohio. Instead, you'll find families, couples and solo adventurers alike enjoying the summertime activities lakeside. It's not the best spot for swimming, but fishing and boating is rumored to be spectacular. Plus, your furry friend is invited to join in the festivities!Regardless of where you choose to pitch your tent, make sure to be a happy camper!
April
14
14
The 7 Best Spots to Get a Margarita in Cincinnati
When happy hour rolls around, there's one drink that stands above the rest. Made with freshly squeezed lime juice, tequila and the orange liqueur of your choice, the margarita offers a refreshing and flavorful end to any work day, be it frozen, on the rocks or strawberry.
And while these popular bevvies come in all shapes and sizes, creating the perfect one, with the ideal tequila to flavor ratio, is certainly an art. We've put together a list of some of our favorites in Cincinnati — because we believe these limey, salt-rimmed sippers deserve to be celebrated every day of the week.
Cactus Pear
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