Posts with tag 'Things to do in Columbus'

Going on a picnic with either a significant other or your family is a tried-and-true tradition that's become a national pastime throughout the ages. There are plenty of great parks in the Columbus area where you lay out a blanket or sit at a table for a nice meal and even nicer company. Here are some of our favorite picnic hotspots for National Picnic Day April 23.

Scioto Grove Metro Park

5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123

You could spend nearly the entire day at Scioto Grove Metro Park because there are so many things to do. In addition to picnic shelters that will keep you off the ground, you can burn off some calories with a nice walk along one of its eight trails. You'll also find a sizable event space, archery ranges, disc golf course, and beautiful river views.

Topiary Garden Park

480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Situated next to the Columbus Metropolitan Library's main branch, Topiary Garden Park is a wonderful place to enjoy a picnic with friends or family. The spot is also unique because it's home to the only existing topiary interpretation of a painting. This makes it great for art lovers or people looking to snap a cool picture for their Instagram.

Franklin Park Adventure Center

1755 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

As one of the many iconic parks in Columbus, Franklin Park Adventure Center is perfect for couples and families who are interested in having a picnic or simply spending time together. After your feast, feel free to head over to the conservatory where you can explore several types of environments and plants. You'll need to purchase admission, but it's a small charge and worth every penny.

Columbus Park of Roses

3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

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As you can probably guess from the name, the Columbus Park of Roses is an absolutely gorgeous spot for a picnic. This 13-acre park is also known as Whetstone Park and the landscape changes throughout the seasons depending on which flowers are in bloom. Every park on our list is beautiful and unique, but this is arguably the most romantic in the Columbus area.

Scioto Audubon Metro Park

400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215

Whether you're in the mood for a gorgeous view of the city or prefer a river view, Scioto Audubon Metro Park has more than enough options. In addition to a healthy amount of picnic tables, you'll find a dog park, rock climbing area, obstacle course, picturesque water tower, and more. There's even a playground for kids of all ages and a mister to keep them cool on hot days.

Goodale Park

120 W. Goodale St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Perhaps one of the greatest things about Goodale Park—Columbus' first public park—is that it's situated near quite a few restaurants, which means you can grab food at one of those instead of cooking yourself. While you're there, you'll surely be enthralled by the architecture of Victorian Village homes and can find plenty of things to do between the park's pond, tennis courts, baseball diamonds, and playground.

Hoover Reservoir Park

7701 Sunbury Rd, Westerville, OH 43081

With more than 4700 acres, Hoover Reservoir Park has many great spots to enjoy a picnic. There's wildlife in many areas of the park to enjoy. If you're lucky, you may even spot a bald eagle. There are also many types of water sports available and families often spend some time on the water before returning to land for a picnic.

Genoa Park

303 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215

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For fans of skylines, Genoa Park is the place you want to be because you'll get some stunning views of Downtown Columbus. The first things most visitors will notice, however, are the humanized deer sculptures that are enjoying a day at the park just as you will be. This park is also home to an amphitheater that holds concerts and other events throughout the year.

McFerson Commons Park

218 West St., Columbus, OH 43215

Often referred to as Arch Park thanks to the iconic Union Station Arch that's found there, McFerson Commons Park is what you might consider an urban oasis. Surrounded by a wall of trees that provides plenty of shade, this is a popular spot for annual festivals, 5K races, casual sports leagues, and more. 

Life is a Picnic

What picturesque surroundings will make your Columbus picnic-perfect?

Itching to spend some time outdoors now that the weather is warming up again? So are we!

Thankfully, tons of springtime events and festivals are happening all over Ohio in the next few weeks. Whether you're in the Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati areas, you'll have no shortage of options. Why not fill in your calendar with a few of the best ones from our list below?

Geauga County Maple Festival

Chardon, OH 44024

Geauga County Maple Festival is back in Chardon Square April 21 – 24 this year. This beloved local event offers fun for the whole family, including rides, games, and live entertainment from local musicians. Make sure you visit on an empty stomach—you'll love taking part in their pancake breakfasts and pancake eating competitions (with plenty of maple syrup, of course). When you're done, you can enjoy festivities like maple candy carving, the crowning of the Maple Queen, and a syrup-making competition for local aficionados. All syrups in the competition are raffled off as part of the festivities, and a selection of other delicious maple-flavored treats will be available for purchase as well. 

The Great Steubenville Eggsibition

980 Lincoln Ave., Steubenville, OH 43952 

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2022's Great Steubenville Eggsibition begins April 15. This event is a local tradition begun by the artisans at Nelson's Fine Art and Gifts, who have crafted over 20 giant eggs for display around the neighborhood. Each egg features beautiful artwork that has been hand-painted by local artists. The eggs are hidden around the Steubenville business district to simulate a traditional Easter egg hunt. See how many you can find while strolling around Steubenville this spring! 

Mohican Wildlife Weekend

3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842

The Mohican State Park's Mohican Wildlife Weekend April 22-24 is one of the most popular outdoor gatherings in Northeast Ohio. Some of the activities offered during this weekend include archery shooting, survival classes, gold panning, and a scavenger hunt. There are also several educational programs available at specific times, such as the Wings of Wonder Bird Presentation and a planetarium program where you can observe the movement of the stars. You'll need to reserve a spot for some activities in advance, so be sure to check out what's available and register before the event.

Taste of Granville

537 Jones Rd. NE, Granville, OH 43023

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The second annual Taste of Granville event, 5–8 pm April 30, will be hosted by the Granville Rotary at the Bryn Du Mansion. This fast-paced dining experience offers you the chance to sample beer, wine, liquor, and cider from local brewers and distilleries and food from local eateries, including Wild Things Sandwich Café. Dashing Diner, and Ray Ray's Hog Pit. General tickets are available for $35. VIP tables can be booked for $250 to $500, depending on the size of your party.

Sertoma Ice Cream Festival

11339 Mt. Vernon Rd., Utica, OH 43080

The Sertoma Ice Cream Festival has taken place on the grounds of the Energy Cooperative and Velvet Ice Cream Company nearly every year since 1975. Guests will enjoy everything from pony rides and lawn games to a motorcycle and car show. If you're hungry, you can enjoy delicious local dishes like bratwurst, ham and beans, and gallons of premium ice cream. You can also browse a selection of crafts from dozens of local vendors. At just $5 admission per car, this is the perfect place to spend a pleasant spring afternoon with your family May 28-30.

Cincinnati Zoo Blooms

3400 Vine St. Cincinnati, OH 45220

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The Cincinnati Zoo is always a great place for a fun weekend outing, but it's extra special during the spring Zoo Blooms event April 1-30. During the entire month of April, the zoo's abundant plant life blossoms into a full botanical garden. This period is also known as "Tulip Mania" for the incredible number of tulips on display, but you'll also find plenty of hyacinths and daffodils as well as a multitude of flowering trees and shrubs. There's no additional fee to visit the zoo during this time, so there's no better time for a visit.

Ohioana Book Festival

96 S. Grant Ave., Columbus, OH 43215

Can't get enough of books and literature? The upcoming Ohioana Book Festival April 30 is the place for you. Held by the Ohioana Library in Columbus, this event offers readings and in-depth panel discussions and a book fair, fun educational activities for kids, and delicious snacks. This year's theme is "Celebrating Ohio's Authors," and over 100 of the state's best-known writers will be attending.

Art and Earth Day

1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013

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Every year, the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum celebrates Art and Earth Day, a special day that combines aspects of Arbor Day, Earth Day, and International Sculpture Day. Some of the activities available this year include bird and tree walks, a student art walk featuring works from the students at the University of Cincinnati, and a lively Happy Hour at the Grand Pavilion. Come take in some of the most impressive natural and manmade sights that Cincinnati has to offer from 9 am to 5 pm April 23.   

Cincy on Tap Festival

100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

The 2022 Cincy on Tap Festival will take place at the Great American Ball Park 1–4 pm April 9. This event gathers over 60 local breweries for an unforgettable afternoon of beer tasting and fun. Many of the area's best food trucks will also be serving food on-site, and local cover bands will be playing live during the entire event. Tickets start at $50 and include up to 30 4-ounce samples of premium beers made by local breweries, as well as a complimentary ticket to the Reds vs. Cardinals baseball game happening on April 24 at the ballpark. This is a 21+ event, so be sure to bring your ID on the big day! 

Ring in the Spring Season 

Which of these Ohio spring events will you be attending in the coming weeks? 

When you think "bourbon," the first place that comes to mind is probably Kentucky. But with all due respect to our neighbors across the river, Ohio has plenty to offer when it comes to the most American of spirits. In every corner of the Buckeye State, you'll find great bourbon bars where you can sip your favorite whiskey neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a unique craft cocktail. Let's all raise a glass to the best bourbon bars in Ohio!

The Whiskey Bar

2767 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44106

It's hard to imagine a better hangout for bourbon aficionados than the Whiskey Bar. With its straight-to-the-point name and welcoming speakeasy vibes, it's a perfect place to sit and sip awhile. And with over 400 varieties of whiskey on deck, it's unlikely you'll run out of spirits to sample. The Whiskey Bar also has a friendly, easy-going staff of bartenders who are always happy to help you find the perfect bourbon for any palate. This is definitely a hidden gem in the Cleveland area. 

Society Lounge

2063 E. 4th St., Cleveland, OH 44115

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Offering one of the best bourbon collections in Northeast Ohio, Society Lounge is a staple of the Cleveland bar scene. With its stylish interior and Roaring 20s-inspired atmosphere, drinking here almost feels like stepping back in time. Society lounge is best known for their expertly-mixed craft cocktails (bourbon fans should sample the 'Death in New York') and prohibition-era ambiance, but they also offer a huge selection of spirits. Expect to be able to choose from 30-plus bourbons at any given time, and with a healthy selection of rye, scotch, and gin to boot. 

Oak and Embers Tavern

8003 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

The Bourbon Review named Oak & Embers one of the best bourbon bars in America in 2019, and they definitely know what they're talking about. This hole-in-the-wall in Chesterfield is all about the three B's: bourbon, barbecue, and beer. They serve an amazing selection of bourbon and craft beer to go with their smoky, savory pulled pork, beef brisket, and baby back ribs. And if you're in the mood for a cocktail, try one of their bourbon-centric signature mixed drinks. The "Follow the Smoke" is made with Makers Mark bourbon, Campari and Dolan sweet vermouth smoked with hickory.

Buckeye Bourbon House

36 E. Gay St., Columbus, OH 43215

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You'll find no shortage of great whiskey bars in Columbus, and the Buckeye Bourbon House is definitely one of the best. Their bourbon shelf is a thing of beauty, and they're always highlighting new and exciting bourbons, including a lot of small-batch spirits made right here in Ohio. They have over 50 whiskeys and bourbons to choose from, as well as crafty cocktails and a menu of elevated pub grub. They even offer bourbon flights for those who want to savor the different flavors. Buckeye Bourbon House also made Bourbon Review's ranking of the best bourbon bars in the Midwest for 2021.

The Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge

843 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

Over 300 whiskeys are just waiting to be sampled at the Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge, a High Street hangout that might just offer the best bourbon selection in Columbus. This cozy, intimate space is the perfect place to enjoy drinks with friends and enjoy the Prohibition-themed decor. In addition to a deep roster of bourbons, the Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge offers an incredible array of signature cocktails that run the gamut from approachable and sweet to bitter and spirit-forward. You'll never run out of new flavors to try here, but if you want a basic Old Fashioned made just the way you like it, this is a great place for that too.

Barrel & Taps

1380 W. 3rd Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

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A beloved staple of Columbus' Grandview Heights neighborhood, Barrel & Taps has everything you need for a good time. They always have a well-curated selection of bourbon ready to pour and craft beer on tap, and the indoor bar and outdoor patio each invite guests to stay awhile and enjoy themselves. There's a good chance there will be a food truck or two on-site if you get a little hungry. And with regular events like trivia nights, live music, and yoga on the patio, there's pretty much always something fun going on at Barrel & Taps.

High Bank Distillery Co.

1051 Goodale Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212

Having been awarded Best Creative Cocktails two years running in 614's ColumBest poll, High Bank Distillery Co. takes drinks seriously. Bourbon is featured in cocktails such as the End of Anxiety, which pairs nicely with the restaurant's many shareables. We're partial to the Crispy Brussels with sweet chili glaze and Shrimp Tacos with adobo marinated shrimp. In addition to Grandview, the owners of this bar and eatery are scheduled to open a second location in the Gahanna/New Albany area this year.

The Littlefield

3934 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223

Cincinnati is just a stone's throw across the Ohio River from Kentucky, so it should come as no surprise that the city has a lot to offer bourbon aficionados. The Littlefield is a great example. This hip Northside hangout features an eclectic interior and a breezy patio space, along with a great bourbon selection and plenty of local craft beers on tap. They make great cocktails too, like "The Fergus," made with bourbon, balsamic vinaigrette, ginger beer, and basil simple syrup. The Littlefield is also known for their elevated pub fare and Sunday brunch, which always includes vegan and vegetarian options alongside staples like burgers and shrimp-and-grits 

Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey

1201 Broadway St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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You might never have guessed that biscuits and bourbon went together, but you will after visiting Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey. Their biscuit plates and biscuit sandwiches are to die for. Try the Rosewood—Korean fried chicken, house-made kimchi, and Gochujang BBQ between two golden, butter biscuits—and chase it with a house cocktail like the Boomtown Gold Rush or the Gold Fashioned. Boomtown always has around 50 varieties of bourbon, scotch, whiskey, and rye as well, and their whole vibe revolves around a creative take on classic American frontier food and drink.

Hop Scotch Craft Beer & Whiskey

251 Calhoun St., Cincinnati, OH 45219

Known for being a great happy hour hangout, Hop Scotch Craft Beer & Whiskey is the perfect place to grab a drink after work. They have a huge selection of bourbon and whiskey, along with plenty of excellent craft beer. The staff behind the bar is reliably friendly and knowledgeable, and weekly specials like karaoke and mix-and-match craft beer buckets, there's always a good time to be had. Hop Scotch has 100-plus varieties of whiskey and a menu of staple pub fare like wings and flatbread pizzas. 

Another Round

Ohio offers no shortage of great bourbon bars. What's your favorite watering hole?

While many people out there may think that most live performances are limited to entertainment hubs like Los Angeles and New York, the truth is that Columbus has become of the greatest cities for all types of artists. If you're thinking about moving to the area or are already living here, rest assured that there are plenty of wonderful venues to choose from—and to get you started, we've put together a list of some of our favorites.

Shadowbox Live

503 S. Front St. #260, Columbus OH 43215

If you've never been to Shadowbox Live because you're new to the area or just haven't taken the time, then it's time to give it a try. This amazing performance arts venue and cafe consists of the United States' largest full-time resident theatre ensemble. This award-winning, non-profit performance troupe features everything from rock operas and cabaret to sketch comedy and dance. Over the past 25 years, thousands upon thousands of people have also enjoyed the food, but it's the people and their performances that truly make this a special place.

Actors' Theatre

1000 City Park Ave., Columbus OH 43206

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Another mainstay of art performance in Columbus has been the Actors' Theatre located in Schiller Park. In recent years, they've brought to life the works of William Shakespeare, Mary Shelley, T.S. Eliot, and many more all year round, but they're best known for their summer performances. These outdoor events bring people from all over and create a relaxing atmosphere where you can pull up a blanket and have a picnic while enjoying delightful entertainment. Outside of the summer months, residents are especially fond of their monthly Shakespeare Underground and Drunken Underground events.

Columbus Children's Theatre

177 E. Naghten St., Columbus OH 43215

As the name suggests, Columbus Children's Theatre concentrates on providing family-friendly entertainment. Founded in 1963, they've spent nearly 60 years honing and perfecting their crafts. They've done everything from The Lion, the Witch, & the Wardrobe and Annie to the upcoming Crawls, Flies, and Squirms, and their newest addition, Think Spring. Some of their most notable features include programs tailored for kids under the age of 6 called the Theatre for the Very Young, the hosting of plays put on by local schools, educational programs, and sensory-friendly performances for families with special needs.

Ohio Theatre

39 E. State St., Columbus OH 43215

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Although demolished in 1969 after 40 years of providing entertainment to the community, the Ohio Theatre was restored by the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA). The successfully loyal restoration to the original Spanish-Baroque design, along with the velvet seats, velvet curtains, gilded ceilings, and giant chandelier, is an incredible sight to behold. With performances that range from classical music to modern dance, not to mention popular Broadway shows like Wicked and The Lion King, there's a little something for everyone to be found here.

Short North Stage

1187 N. High St., Columbus OH 43201

Spanning an incredible 90 years of entertainment, the Short North Stage has been everything from a vaudeville venue and movie emporium to a strip club and adult film theater. Taken over years ago by the Greater Columbus Arts Council, they've shed the notorious past and now specialize in reproducing Broadway and off-Broadway productions. Each year, you can find audience favorites such as Hair, Dreamgirls, Little Shop of Horrors, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and Altar Boyz, in addition to everything from puppet shows to concerts. You can also enjoy small productions at their Green Room Stage and food and drink at a speakeasy-style cocktail bar called Ethel's Lounge.

Palace Theatre

34 W. Broad St., Columbus OH 43215

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Aside from its delightful design, the first thing you'll notice about this original vaudeville house very well could be the excellent acoustics. The Palace Theatre was designed at a time when performers needed to be heard by everyone without the use of electronic amplifiers—and it certainly shows. Coupled with the fancy style that includes a grand staircase, fountains, chandeliers, and elegant ceilings, their performances of Broadway shows and symphony orchestras will bring you back time and time again.

MadLab

227 N. 3rd St., Columbus OH 43215

If you've been on the lookout for live improv, sketch comedy, or original plays, this venue is definitely worth checking out. Over the years, MadLab has helped breathe artistic life into the city of Columbus by providing performance artists a place at which to experiment with their craft. Perhaps the greatest thing about this particular venue is that they're constantly producing short plays, often having close to two dozen cast at once. And if you're a performer by chance or would like to dip your toe in the water, you could always stop by during one of their open stage nights.

Southern Theatre

21 E. Main St., Columbus OH 43215

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Okay—hang on to your hats! The Southern Theatre has been around since 1896! This makes it the oldest surviving theater in all of Central Ohio. Somewhat early in its history, it spent some time as an opera house, followed by a full-time movie house, but was restored by (you probably guessed it!) the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts and transformed into a live performance entertainment hub. This venue has a very heavy focus on music including performances ranging from Henry Rollins to the Brentano String Quartet.

Wexner Center for the Arts

1871 N. High St., Columbus OH 43210

The Wexner Center for the Arts has hosted everything from visual art exhibitions and film screenings to live theatre and dance performances. This amazing hotspot features two stages that allow for both small, intimate performances and much larger productions. You'll find a wide variety of live performances that include everyone from singular artists to full production companies from around the world. There's always something going on, so feel free to stop by anytime and see for yourself.

Incredible Performances

Which Columbus theater will you visit next?

With signs of habitation dating back to 13,000 BC, Ohio has a rich and colorful past. No matter what you learned in history books, it can't compare to seeing it with your own eyes. Whether it's a castle in Northeast Ohio, a covered bridge near Columbus, or a library in Cincinnati, a visit to these incredible sites will give you a new appreciation of our state.

Squire's Castle

North Chagrin Reservation, 2844 River Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094

If you're fascinated by the fictional royalty of Game of Thrones or real-life royalty of Queen Elizabeth and her family, don't miss Squire's Castle. Located at North Chagrin Reservation, Squire's Castle was built in the 1890s and patterned after German and English baronial castles. The gatehouse also serves as the trailhead for one of the North Chagrin's more scenic routes, and there's an adjacent picnic area that includes grills and seating. North Chagrin Reservation is open daily from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Maltz Performing Arts Center

Case Western Reserve University, 1855 Ansel Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

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The design and backstory of Maltz Performing Arts Center are as compelling as the events that take place inside it. Founded in 1850 as a temple for the local Reform Jewish congregation, the building has a unique heptagonal shape to fit the lot's odd configuration while approximating a circle, symbolizing unity. Thanks to the creative architecture and stunning interior, the building was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. A partnership between the Temple and Case Western Reserve University led to the creation of the Performing Arts Center, which hosts a number of concerts, lectures, and other cultural activities.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303

While many historical buildings bear the name of their original residents, that's not the case with Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term that translates to "stone quarry," which is a nod to the property's most prominent natural feature. The estate served as the home for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber, but they also generously opened their doors to the public for frequent community events. Hours are 10 a.m. - dusk Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults and $6 for ages 6-17.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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Natural and man-made history combine to spectacular effect at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The 13-acre facility, located just two miles from downtown Columbus, is anchored by the John D. Wolfe Palm House. This glass greenhouse, which dates back to 1895, features 43 species of palms, including fiddle-leaf figs that were part of the original plantings. Seasonal and visiting exhibitions supplement the lush gardens and botanical biomes on permanent display. Franklin Park Conservatory is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.

Decorative Arts Center of Ohio

145 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130

Do you think of art as something that requires specialized skill or talent? The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio has a mission to awaken the creative spirit in everyone. Programming includes themed exhibits, classes, workshops, and lectures aimed at making art accessible to all. Welcome the new year with the upcoming exhibit, "Hindsight: The Art of Looking Back," which is particularly appropriate for exploring the past. "Classrooms" are located in the Reese-Peters House, a Federal/Greek Revival-style home built in 1835 and widely acclaimed as the finest house in Lancaster. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 1 - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Mink Hollow Covered Bridge

Arney Run Park, 2340 Meister Rd. SW, Lancaster, OH 43130

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Covered bridges, once a common sight around the countryside, have become rare but treasured relics of the past. Only about one in 10 have survived to the present day, with Mink Hollow Covered Bridge being one of the more picturesque structures. At a length of 54 feet, this charming "house bridge" boasts the longest official name of any bridge in the country: Mink Hollow over Arney Run in Oil Mill Hollow near the Borcher's Mill Covered Bridge. Dog-friendly Arney Run Park is also a great spot for hiking, photography, bird-watching, and picnicking. Park hours are dawn till dusk, 365 days a year. 

National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting

8070 Tylersville Rd., West Chester, OH 45069

Before social media and television, news and entertainment were transmitted across radio waves. The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting highlights the development and impact of radio technology, both locally and globally. Cincinnati native Powel Crosley Jr., once dubbed "the Henry Ford of radio," was the driving force behind the Bethany Relay Station, which broadcasted from the building that now houses the museum. Other attractions include displays of early wireless transmitters and a fully-equipped ham station where you can observe the workings of shortwave radio. The museum is open weekends from 1 - 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for everyone aged 16 and older. 

The Mercantile Library

414 Walnut St. #1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Established in 1835, the Mercantile Library is one of only about two dozen membership libraries that still exist in the country. Spread across the 11th and 12th floors of the building, the library holds more than 80,000 volumes on subjects ranging from contemporary fiction and poetry to travel and history. Harriet Beecher Stowe, Salman Rushdie, and Julia Child are just a few of the exciting guest lecturers who have appeared at the Mercantile. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.

Carillon Historical Park

1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409

Kitty Hawk may be the site of their first flights, but the dreams of the Wright Brothers first took hold in their hometown of Dayton. Carillon Historical Park shines a light on the Wright Brothers and other regional pioneers of transportation and industry. The 65-acre open-air museum includes displays such as the Wright Brothers National Museum, Great 1913 Flood Exhibit, and Heritage Center of Dayton Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship. Carillon Historical Park is open 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for ages 3-17.

Yesterday Is History, Tomorrow Is a Mystery

What site in Ohio is associated with a significant memory from your own past?