Ohio Magazine - June 2024

Why Walleye Fishing on Lake Erie Is Better Than Ever

Ohio’s National Park Marks a Milestone

10 SPOTS TO VISIT THIS SEASON

SAN DIEGO THE BRONX COLUMBUS

As a twice-ranked best zoo in the U. S ., it’s time to add a little wild to your summer at experiencecolumbus.com/summer.

From

Our National Park

In

Sun Bent Studio brings rainbows into the home, and nature documentarian Alex Goetz talks wildlife.

The Canton Museum of Art features imagined landscapes, and Gahanna hosts blues and jazz.

Farm & Table

Dig in at Pickle Bill’s

Lobster House in Grand River, and grab a pint at Jackie O’s on Fourth in Columbus.

60 Lake Erie Fishing

Walleye

27 Ohio Wine Month

The start of summer is a perfect time for exploring Ohio’s wineries. Here are four to get you started. 42 LiveWell

Check out tips for creating family time outside, and a naturalist offers advice on staying safe in the outdoors.

128 Milestones

On June 4, 1976, the transcontinental Bicentennial

Train made

stop in the Ohio town of Richfield.

PHOTO BY RICK BUCHANAN

CONNECT

outdoor Adventures

Whether it’s hitting the trails, riding along a bike path, spending time on the water or gazing up at the stars, many of our greatest moments and memories are tied to the outdoors.

We share the same passion that resonates with many Ohioans and invite you to subscribe to our new Outdoor Adventures newsletter, dedicated to those who like to feel the sun on their face and the ground under foot.

We’ll be sharing some of the state’s best hiking trails and places to kayak, canoe and paddleboard as well as where you can pedal the day away on a bicycle or hit the gas on an all-terrain vehicle. We’ll guide you to great places to camp and boat and help you make the most of all things outdoors in our state.

We hope our Outdoor Adventures newsletter inspires you to get out and explore. Sign up for free today at ohiomagazine.com/newsletters.

In This Issue:

Canton, p. 11

Columbus, p. 6, 9, 25, 71

Cortland, p. 12

Dayton, p. 5, 81

Gahanna, p. 12

Grand River, p. 24

Norwalk, p. 30

Pomeroy, p. 12

Put-In-Bay, p. 12

Richfield, p. 128

Toledo, p. 8

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTIONS

stargazing: Engage in one of humanity’s oldest hobbies this summer by searching the Ohio skies for constellations. Our stargazing guide highlights 13 great spots in the Buckeye State for exploring the night sky — including the state’s first international dark sky park — and offers tips for taking night-sky photos with your smartphone. ohiomagazine.com/stargazing

33 OHIO WINES

Your guide to all things wine in the Buckeye State.

77 HILLIARD

Explore the wealth of attractions in this Columbus suburb.

87 SHORES & ISLANDS

Experience shopping, dining and tons of fun on Lake Erie.

97 FAMILY FIELD TRIPS

Plan the perfect family trip with these exciting destinations.

Are you receiving our email newsletters? Learn about fun experiences throughout the state, get great food and drink ideas or plan for your next weekend getaway. Sign up at ohiomagazine.com/newsletters

Ohio Magazine encourages you to recycle this magazine. Great Lakes Publishing supports the use of paper milled from replanted forests as a renewable resource and purchases paper from Sustainable Forestry Initiativecertified sources when available. We have also taken steps to reduce the amount of plastic used when mailing issues to subscribers.

Chairman Lute Harmon Sr.

President

& Publisher Lute Harmon Jr.

EDITORIAL

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Editor Jim Vickers

Associate Editors Erin Finan, Gracie Metz

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Digital Content Assistant Kelly Powell

Editorial Interns Sean Eifert, Brynn Meisse

Art Director Rachael Jirousek

Contributing Artists Rick Barge, Laura Watilo Blake, Rick Buchanan, Kathleen Colan, Jessa Hendershot, Nick Hoeller, Sel James, Gabe Leidy, Rayanne Medford, Charlee Ottersberg, Adam David Wagner

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Chief Financial Officer George Sedlak

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Go With the Flow

Afew years ago, I was checking in at a place to stay in the Hocking Hills, and the innkeeper — putting the most positive spin possible on the buckets of rain that had dropped in previous days — reported that the good news from all of this weather was that the region’s waterfalls had been “recharged.” I chuckled at the time, having just sprinted up from my car to the front door, but the glass-half-full observation carried plenty of truth.

When we set out to Old Man’s Cave the next day, the raindrops were still falling, but the two most well-known waterfalls in the area were rushing. The crowds were light too, which made the experience even more memorable.

There is something about waterfalls that enchants us, no matter our age, life experiences or background. The flowing water never stops, and depending on how much rain we’ve had, it can be a roaring torrent or a nearly silent trickle. You never know exactly what you’re going to find until you get there, and that’s part of the fun.

This month, we share incredible images from photographers who capture Ohio’s waterfalls in beautiful and unexpected ways. You can see them starting on page 44 with photographer Gabe Leidy’s image of Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s Brandywine Falls just as the sun peeks up beyond the rim of Brandywine Gorge.

Because our June issue is also our Outdoor Issue, our other features, as well as departments throughout the magazine, have a focus on nature and spending time outside. In addition to exploring waterfalls, we also delve into the history of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio’s only national park. In 1974, Congress voted to set aside land along the Cuyahoga River as Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area. In 2000, it finally received its national park designation.

This issue also examines Lake Erie’s reputation as the Walleye Capital of the World and why casting a line for the fish is better than it has been in years. We also share how you can experience fishing on our Great Lake for yourself.

If all this talk about spending time outside has you lacing up your hiking boots or getting your tacklebox in order, we encourage you to check out our new Outdoor Adventures newsletter. Those already subscribed to our newsletters will get a first look at it this month. If you aren’t signed up yet, follow us for plenty of outdoor inspiration this summer and beyond.

Accounts Payable Coordinator Geli Valli Ohio Magazine is not responsible for the care and/or return of unsolicited photographs, illustrations, manuscripts, books or any other material submitted for possible publication. All photographs are courtesy of the event or organization listed, unless otherwise credited.

JIM VICKERS

GREATER AKRON

Create your own adventure in Greater Akron! Visit Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, the former home of Goodyear Tire & Rubber cofounder F.A. Seiberling and the largest historical estate in Ohio. While you’re in Summit County, explore and take advantage of all there is to do. Sightsee, tour museums and enjoy the delicious food scene. Start planning your trip today!

VISITAKRON-SUMMIT.ORG

“GINNY RUFFNER: REFORESTATION OF THE IMAGINATION”

EXPERIENCE

OHIO AMISH COUNTRY

Handcrafted experiences meet modern comfort in the scenic hills of Ohio Amish Country. Sample local food and wine, visit our shops and boutiques and encounter a culture all its own.

VISITAMISHCOUNTRY.COM

Canton Museum of Art’s Spring/Summer exhibitions are on view now through July 28 and include the featured exhibit “Ginny Ruffner: Reforestation of the Imagination.” Ruffner is among a vibrant group of artists bringing augmented reality to museum installations. By using this medium, she transforms visitor experiences. Don’t miss this incredible, multidimensional exhibition that is sure to wow. CANTONART.ORG

ROADMAP

Experience, explore and enjoy Streetsboro! Discover over 60 nearby attractions, 50-plus restaurants, eight affordable hotels, two serene campgrounds, an abundance of outdoor activities, shopping and a variety of special events year-round. It’s time to get ready for a memorable trip to Streetsboro — northeast Ohio’s best vacation value.

STREETSBOROVCB.COM

OHIO WINE PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION

Celebrate the 29th year of the Vintage Ohio Wine Festival, the state’s premier wine, music and food festival happening Aug. 2-3 just east of Cleveland. Enjoy samplings from 20 wineries, including dry, sweet and fruit wines, craft ciders, scores of vendors, multiple music stages, a new VIP area with nationally acclaimed wines, cooking demonstrations, hotel and transportation packages, pre- and post-event winery tours and more. OHIOWINES.ORG

Troll Tales

Meet Bodil, one of three towering wooden creatures who have a permanent home at Dayton’s Aullwood Audubon. Bodil, along with friends Bo and Bibbi, are part of Aullwood’s outdoor art installation, “The Troll That Hatched an Egg,” which was created by world-renowned sculptor Thomas Dambo. As with many of Dambo’s projects, the trolls are made from repurposed and recycled materials, helping spread the message of conservation and the importance of protecting the natural beauty that surrounds us. The trolls (and their giant nest) are located at various sites throughout the park and can be visited year-round. 1000 Aullwood Rd., Dayton 45414, 937/890-7360, aullwood.audubon.org

Here Comes Sunshine: Inspired by her love of rainbows, Columbus-based artist Nicole Derifield-West creates and sells delicate, beautifully made suncatchers.

Bog Days: Urbana’s Cedar Bog State Nature Preserve is the oldest of its kind in Ohio, and it serves as a home for some of the state’s rarest plant and animal species.

Here Comes Sunshine

Nicole Derifield-West harnesses the power of light and spreads the joy of rainbows with her delicate metal and crystal creations.

Columbus-based artist Nicole Derifield-West has dabbled in various artistic mediums throughout her life, from drawing and painting in high school to jewelry making in her late twenties. She eventually settled into metalsmithing to make suncatchers, which she now does professionally under the name Sun Bent Studio.

Derifield-West says her attraction to suncatchers comes from memories of window crystals at her grandmother’s home. She was mesmerized by the movement of the rainbows as they danced across the walls. Soon after, she sought a supplier for plain brass rods that she could use to make her own.

“It’s really cathartic to take something that’s straight and seems pretty rigid and move it into something new and different and oneof-a-kind,” she says.

Derifield-West acts instinctively when creating each design. She pays attention to what the highest point will be, where she needs to put the next bend or add another curve, how the crystals will balance and what type of crystals she needs to get a specific visual effect.

The resulting rainbows in the finished product are determined by the number of facets, or flat sides, each crystal has. For example, disco ball-shaped crystals create many small rainbows, while long, skinny pieces — also known as “wizard hats” — create fewer but larger rainbow projections.

“I try to combine the shapes, so you get a little bit of twinkly, baby rainbows, and you get some big, ooey-gooey rainbows,” Derifield-West says. “No matter what the sun is doing or where it’s hanging, you kind of get a little bit of everything.”

She has recently started experimenting with using sheets of brass in place of rods. This involves finishing with a patina, a chemical process used on various metals to create a range of hues. The result is more color appearing on an already vibrant piece.

“I stop in my tracks for rainbows,” Derifield-West says. “They’re just special and they’re magical and they’re fleeting. … They’re gone until they’re back again. I just think that’s kind of lovely.” — Kelly Powell

For more information, visit etsy.com/shop/sunbentstudio.

Bog Days

Ohio’s oldest nature preserve, Cedar Bog, boasts some of the most diverse plant and animal life in the state.

Cedar Bog covers 446 acres in Urbana, and the land has remained unchanged since it was formed thousands of years ago when enormous glaciers flattened the area. In 1942, the state of Ohio purchased and set aside the land for the preserve’s first 100 acres, and it has since been added to and designated a National Natural Landmark, one of just 23 in the state.

“Some people don’t see natural areas as important,” says Madison Brown, preserve manager at Cedar Bog. “They like to go see old houses or statues or museums. It’s a landmark for a reason. Nobody has touched it. It’s exactly as it has been.”

The preservation of the natural landscape is the area’s biggest draw, in addition to its multitude of diverse species. The name Cedar Bog is a misnomer, as the preserve better constitutes the makings of a fen, allowing water to flow freely through it and creating an area that is more conducive for unique and diverse plant species to thrive.

Cedar Bog contains representation from 30 to 40 percent of Ohio’s native plant population and 40 percent of its rare and endangered plant species, including both the largest and smallest orchid species in North America. The preserve also provides an oasis to endangered animal species, such as the eastern massasauga rattlesnake and the elfin skimmer dragonfly.

Visitors to Cedar Bog can hope to see some of these species, as well as other native flora and fauna, during a walk along the preserve’s 1.1-mile boardwalk and short prairie trail. (Guided tours with a volunteer naturalist are also available but by special request only.) Additionally, Cedar Bog’s on-site nature center is open year-round, Wednesday through Saturday, and offers exhibits and educational programs.

“No other place is going to have the exact plants that we have, and we have most,” Brown says. “I’ve always known Ohio to be cornfields and soybeans. ... Then you walk through Cedar Bog and it’s like you’re walking through time.” — Sean Eifert

980 Woodburn Rd., Urbana 43078, 937/484-3744, cedarbognp.org

Decorated with a

Taking their name from “tole peinte” (the French term for painted sheet metal), toleware items came from an attempt to mimic a glossy Japanese-style lacquer that was used to decorate tinware

This style, also known as “Japanning,” took off in Wales in the early 18th century, and demand for the colorful, quality kitchenware soon spread to the rest of Europe. After the Revolutionary War, the demand for toleware rose in the United States as well, and the decorative motifs were applied to everything from breadboxes to caddies.

The patterns would be traced onto large, flat sheets of tin, cut out with heavy shears and bent into the desired form. The piece would then be soldered, polished and painted. German immigrants in Ohio and Pennsylvania often borrowed designs from northern European traditions and color schemes, decorating the toleware with beautiful flowers and glowing fruits in bright, cheerful reds, yellows and greens.

This piece lived in an Ohio collection for decades and was found by an Ohio antiques dealer in the Upper Ohio Valley, where these pieces were made in bulk for trade along the river. — Hollie Davis $960 SOLD

Hollie Davis is a co-owner of Meander Auctions in Whipple, Ohio.

Cedar Bog’s 1.1-mile boardwalk offers a closer look at plant and animal life.

TOLEWARE TIN COFFEE POT

floral design

Start your weekend with

Where are you going?

Use Ohio Magazine’s event search to learn what’s happening near you and across Ohio.

Wild Life

Nature documentarian Alex Goetz shares how a career in filmmaking has taken him around the world and allowed him to share stories from Ohio.

Filming blue penguins on the Australian island state of Tasmania is just another day at the office for Alex Goetz. His physical office might be in Toledo, but his conservation stories have taken him all over the world.

Raised in Cleveland, Goetz studied film and environmental science at Bowling Green State University. He later co-founded his Toledo-based media group, Running Wild Media, with classmate and fellow Ohioan Justin Grubb, who lives in Missouri. Since then, Goetz’s documentaries have appeared on National Geographic, PBS, CNN and other networks.

“I grew up watching Animal Planet,” Goetz says. “I knew at a young age that’s what I wanted to do.”

Trekking the globe for exotic animals is part of the job, but Goetz’s work at home is equally impressive. His films for Metroparks Toledo and Summit Metro Parks illuminate Ohio’s wildlife. For his next Ohio-based project, Goetz is planning to document the state’s ecologically significant Oak Openings Region. We talked with Goetz about some of his favorite places, the filming process and his upcoming documentary. — Sarah Miller

Where did your favorite Running Wild projects take you?

A: We spent six weeks filming in the Badlands for the first season of “America’s National Parks.” I didn’t expect to find so many interesting wildlife behaviors like the animated prairie dogs and the bighorn sheep. Another favorite was Turks and Caicos, a barely populated desert island, where we filmed these little charismatic lizards.

Can you share a story that shows what goes into creating a nature documentary?

A: A company hired us to film a red fox sequence. After about four weeks in the Grand Tetons, we didn’t get any fox behavior until the last three days. It was like minus 20 degrees, and we laid in the snow for hours watching a fox nap. Some amazing wolf stuff was happening, but we had to just drive by and wave sadly at the other photographers getting this great footage because we were hired to film foxes. Once the fox mousing behavior started happening, I was so excited because that was a behavior I’d always wanted to film.

Your next documentary is about Ohio’s Oak Openings Region. What is it about the area that intrigues you?

A: The Oak Openings Region is a globally rare ecosystem, designated one of the last 200 unique places in the world by The Nature Conservancy. … All these unique things are going on there — sand dunes, rare oak savanna and wildflower prairies. The plan is to essentially live in Oak Openings for the next two years and document it all.

Start your search at ohiomagazine.com/events.

For more information visit runningwild.media.

Alex Goetz has traveled the globe to share stories of conservation. His latest work is bringing him back to where it all began.

DATEBOOK

Columbus Arts Festival

June 7-9: Columbus

Browse work from more than 250 artists along Columbus’ riverfront during this annual event put on by the Greater Columbus Arts Council. This year’s festival includes pieces from more than 75 Ohio artists, as well as dance and spoken-word performances, children’s activities and a kids and teens art gallery. The three-day event also features live music from Ohio performers. Bring home an original creation from the festival’s Big Local Arts Village, which showcases over 60 artisans selling works ranging from paintings to pottery. columbusartsfestival.org

Calendar of Events: Your summer plans start here. Check out our guide to exhibitions, shows and other happenings scheduled between now and the end of July.

Brave New Worlds: Columbus artist Laine Bachman’s depictions of imagined planets brimming with life are featured in an exhibition at the Canton Museum of Art.

DATEBOOK

“NEBULA”

Brave New Worlds

Columbus artist Laine Bachman’s depictions of imagined planets brimming with life are featured in an exhibition at the Canton Museum of Art this summer.

By Ilona Westfall

An orb made of tropical foliage and brightly colored flowers floats in space with the blue and purple clouds of a nebula behind it. Look closer, and an assortment of insects and animals, including a toucan, frogs and birds, becomes visible. The painting, aptly titled “Nebula,” by Columbus artist Laine Bachman was the first created for her series of surreal planets, which depicts real plants and animals with fantastical flora and fauna of her own creation mixed in.

The series is on display in the exhibition “Beyond Worlds: Paintings by Laine Bachman” at the Canton Museum of Art (running through July 28). The 19 acrylic paintings in the collection feature Bachman’s imagined planets as well as a handful of landscapes in what the artist refers to as her signature “magical realism” style.

“I always like to combine something that’s real with something that’s unreal, so you get this surrealism,” Bachman explains.

The result is beautifully strange planets, each with a different theme, set against starry backdrops. Motifs include wildflowers, butterflies, mushrooms, ferns and a Paleo planet with trilobites and prehistoric creatures. A standout is “Neopelagic Moon,” depicting a trash planet consisting of discarded bottles and plastic with striped fish swimming throughout. The piece was inspired by the Great Pacific Garbage Patch,

a floating mass of trash in the Pacific Ocean that sea creatures have started living in.

The inspiration for painting themes of nature as planets rather than more straightforward depictions evolved from Bachman’s earlier paintings of floral bouquets.

“I was really loving the foliage and putting creatures inside of it,” she says. “I decided ‘let’s toss the base away and create these planets.’ So, it’s kind of like a floating bouquet in space.”

Bachman’s process for creating her paintings starts with a theme. She intensely researches it and uses photo references from field guides, encyclopedias and sometimes

even her own backyard garden to draw sketches. Then, she may add in fantastical versions of plants and animals based on real ones found in nature. It creates a complex piece of art that invites close examination to find each hidden creature or plant among the masses. It also makes viewers wonder which are real and which aren’t.

“I want these to be like undiscovered worlds,” she says. “I’m creating these worlds that are based on things that I find fascinating and important in our own world.”

1001 Market Ave. N., Canton 44702, 330/453-7666, cantonart.org

“SKY PAVILION”

DATEBOOK

Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival

June 14–16: Gahanna

The wail of bluesy guitars and bright horns fill four blocks of the Columbus suburb of Gahanna each year during the Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival. Celebrating its 25th year in 2024, the event draws up to 25,000 summer visitors to the city’s Creekside District, and the festival has grown into a destination music event known beyond central Ohio.

Over the course of its three days, the festival hosts more than 30 acts across three stages: a jazz stage where attendees can see the likes of New York City’s horn-driven Huntertones, a blues stage that hosts acts such as Lil’ Ed & the Blues Imperials (a Chicago band that has been together for over 30 years) and a community stage for local musicians.

“People [have] come to expect a high level of musi-

cian entertainment, and for a relatively inexpensive ticket price, you can see multiple bands and some bands you didn’t even know existed,” says Lori Kappes, director of the Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival.

Other acts on the 2024 bill include Jason Ricci & the Bad Kind, Urban Jazz Coalition, Dave Powers Trio, MojoFlo, Sammy DeLeon y Su Orquesta, Midwest Modern Jazz Quartet, Blue Spectrum and many more. While music is the focus, works for sale by local artisans complete the festival feel, as does the wealth of food and drink available. Gahanna’s Creekside District is brimming with locally owned restaurants and bars.

The diverse mix of music draws out-of-towners, many of whom were not previously familiar with the community, according to Kappes.

“A lot of people who attend the festival are not from Gahanna,” she says. “Last year we had people from 27 different states and pretty much every city around Ohio.” — Brynn Meisse

117 Mill St., Gahanna 43230, 614/418-9114, creeksidebluesandjazz.com

Festival

Appalachian Summer Solstice

June 20–23: Pomeroy

Celebrate the arrival of summer and the longest day of the year at Wisteria Event Site and Campground. For four days around the summer solstice, enjoy nightly drum and fire circles as well as tea-dance demonstrations, swimming at the pond and a faerie ball. wisteria.org/ summer-solstice

Festival

Ohio Viking Festival

June 21–23: Cortland

Pyrate Fest June 28–30: Put-in-Bay

Dress in your best buccaneer gear and head to South Bass Island for this free annual swashbuckling celebration. For three days, downtown Put-in-Bay’s DeRivera Park transforms into a pirate history hub with cannon demonstrations and costumed reenactors. The event kicks off on Friday as pirates descend on the island and raise their flag. Kids can participate in foam sword fights, while evenings bring the Pyrate Bar Crawl for the adults. The whole family can enjoy a pirate costume contest and a parade topping off the weekend. visitputinbay.org

Step back in time at this annual Trumbull County festival where the 2024 theme is “Year of the Artisans.” The three-day event highlights the arts of the Viking age and also features live music, a kids water balloon battle, combat and blacksmithing demonstrations and more. While showing up in Viking attire is not required, it is encouraged. ohio vikingfestival.com

festival

CALENDAR

FOR A COMPREHENSIVE LIST OF EVENTS ACROSS OHIO, VISIT OHIOMAGAZINE.COM/EVENTS.

JUNE Central Festivals

JUNE 7–9

Columbus Arts Festival

This capital city welcome-to-summer event pairs the finest visual artists from around the country with four stages of entertainment, activities for all ages and great food along the city’s stunning downtown riverfront. Scioto Riverfront, 200 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, 614/224-2606. columbusartsfestival.org. Fri. 11 a.m.–10 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–10 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

JUNE 15–16

Worthington Arts Festival

Come to one of central Ohio’s premier community fine art and craft shows. This creatively driven weekend event has annually drawn 20,000 visitors to the city’s Village Green Park and has been ranked one of the top 200 art festivals in the country by Sunshine Artist magazine. Worthington Village Green, High Street, Worthington, 614/431-0329. worthingtonartsfestival.com. Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

JUNE 22

Japanese Garden Festival

Celebrate this beloved garden with food trucks, calligraphy, origami and more. Take part in a guided meditation and Qigong with Granville Yoga, grab food from Kona Ice, Iron Grill and Chef Shack, or learn about the history of the garden from available staff members. The Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd., Newark, 740/323-2355. dawesarb.org. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Visit website for prices.

JUNE 29

Family Fun on the Farm Festival

Head to this free annual event featuring handson children’s activities centered around natural resources and learning about where food comes from. Shoot a bow and arrow, take a wagon ride or plant a seedling. Plus, make sure to enjoy eats from one of several food trucks. Malabar Farm State Park, 4050 Bromfield Rd., Lucas, 419/747-8685. richlandswcd.net Noon–4 p.m. Free.

Museums + Exhibits

THRU AUG 18

Robin F. Williams: We’ve Been Expecting You View the first solo institutional exhibition featuring works from this Columbus-born, Brooklyn-based artist. The exhibition spans a 17-year time frame, showcasing themes of gender and identity, digital trends, folklore and the body. Columbus Museum of Art, 480 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/221-6801. columbusmuseum. org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU AUG 25

Mod: Visual, Social, Cultural Renaissance of the 1960s

Take a retrospective journey through this decade’s cultural revolutions. The exhibition includes prints, record albums, furniture and clothing. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, 145 E. Main St., Lancaster, 740/681-1423. decartsohio. org. Visit website for times. Free.

Music + Theater

JUNE 4

Bleachers

Jam out with this American rock group fronted by songwriter and producer Jack Antonoff. The band’s sound is influenced by music of the late ’80s and early ’90s. KEMBA Live!, 405 Neil Ave., Columbus, 614/461-5483. promowestlive.com. 6:30 p.m. Visit website for prices.

JUNE 15

Generation Radio with Jason Scheff and Jay DeMarcus

Enjoy the sounds of Generation Radio, featuring members Jason Scheff and Jay DeMarcus, as they perform classic rock and country hits from Journey, Tom Petty and more. Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St., Columbus, 614/4690939. columbussymphony.com. 8–10 p.m. Adults $35, kids under 12 $10, kids under 2 free.

JUNE 18

Gregory Alan Isakov with Special Guest Mon Rovîa

Enjoy the music of this South African-born American singer and songwriter, whose music favors indie and folk sounds. Isakov is joined by Tennessee-based artist Mon Rovîa. KEMBA Live!, 405 Neil Ave., Columbus, 614/461-5483. promowestlive.com. 6 p.m. $39.50–$99.

State Regions

Because dates, times and locations are subject to change, please call ahead to confirm all details before traveling. For a more complete listing of events, visit ohiomagazine.com/events.

To submit event information, visit ohiomagazine.com/submit. Events must be submitted at least 8 weeks in advance. Include the date, time, cost, address, phone number, website and brief description of the event. (Events that do not meet our requirements may be deleted.) Print events are published on a space-available basis. Events submitted 8 weeks in advance appear on ohiomagazine.com/events.

Listings with photos are paid for by advertisers. For more information on enhanced listings, email us at adsales@ohiomagazine.com.

JUNE 21–22

Buckeye Country Superfest Pre-Party

Featuring Wyatt Flores

Check out one of two pre-parties for Columbus’ premier country music event. Friday night brings Bo Staloch, while Saturday night brings Alex Lambert. Newport Music Hall, 1722 N. High St., Columbus, 614/461-5483. promowestlive. com. Visit website for times and prices.

JUNE 22

Violent Femmes

Platinum-selling, folk rock band Violent Femmes joins the Columbus Symphony to celebrate their groundbreaking sound and cult classic hits like “Add it Up,” “Blister in the Sun” and “Kiss Off.” Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony. com. 8–10 p.m. Adults $45, kids under 12 $15, kids under 2 free.

JUNE 29

Patriotic Pops: A Gershwin Celebration

The Columbus Symphony celebrates Independence Day with a tribute to George Gershwin’s hits, including a special performance of “Rhapsody in Blue.” Enjoy your favorite patriotic melodies, an appearance by a U.S. Color Guard and fireworks. Columbus Commons, 160 S. High St., Columbus, 614/469-0939. columbussymphony. com. 8–10 p.m. Adults $35, kids under 12 $10, kids under 2 free.

Other Events

THRU SEPT

Thursdays at The Yard

Easton Town Center welcomes you to eat, drink, move and groove Thursdays this summer at The Yard. From funk to acoustic and Americana to rock, enjoy free live music from local artists all season long. Grab a drink on a patio overlooking The Yard, or pop out your favorite lawn chair right in front of the stage. The Yard, 160 Easton Town Center, Columbus, 6–9 p.m. Free.

JUNE 2

Bexley House & Garden Tour

Join the Bexley Women’s Club to see amazing historical homes and raise money for the club’s scholarships. Downtown Bexley, East Broad Street, Bexley, 614/236-4500. bexleywomen. org. Visit website for times. $25–$30.

JUNE 20

Cocktails at the Conservatory: Camp Conservatory

Join this adult summer camp featuring acoustic tunes from Drew Allen Music, log rolling and inflatable ax throwing challenges as well as a DIY friendship bracelet station. Plus, take part in giant checkers, lawn games or a round of bar bingo. Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/715-8000. fpconservatory.org. 5:30–9:30 p.m. Non-members $35, members $30.

JUNE 20 & JULY 18

Third Thursdays in Downtown Marion

Join us at Founders Park for live music, vendors, and food trucks. Stroll Downtown Marion’s DORA. Explore public art, boutiques, retail spaces, and unique eateries and drinkeries. Third Thursdays in Marion. Downtown Marion, 164 S. Main St., Marion, 740/802-7329. downtownmarion.com. 6–9 p.m. Free.

JUNE 22

Zoofari: A Wild Celebration for Conservation Champion animal conservation at this event featuring art, comedy and music at various locations around the zoo. Enjoy unlimited drinks and delicious food as well as after-hours activities, such as exploring Adventure Cove, Asia Quest

and Shores regions. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, 4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, 614/645-3400. columbuszoo.org. 7 p.m. $250.

JUNE 28–29

Cottage and Garden Tour

Listen to live music, view gardens on display, take tours of cottages and see historic buildings. Plus, peruse plant sales, hear from gardening speakers, take the little ones to kids activities and shop from vendors. The Lancaster Campground, 2150 W. Fair Ave., Lancaster, 740/6532119. lancastercampground.org. Fri. 5–8:30 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

Northeast

Festivals

JUNE 6–8

Bolivar Strawberry Festival

Dig into this area gathering boasting carnival rides, live entertainment, a singing competition and arts and crafts vendors. Come for the festival’s namesake fruit, as well as a strawberry-eating contest, beer tent and delicious local concessions. Downtown Bolivar, Park Avenue SE, Bolivar, 330/933-5426. villageofbolivar.com. Visit website for times. Free.

JUNE 6–8

Canton Greek Fest

For 40 years, this annual celebration has showcased Greek culture in Canton through delicious food, traditional folk dancing and so much more. Plus, be sure to stick around for the fireworks display on Saturday night. St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, 251 25th St. NW, Canton, 330/454-7278. cantongreekfest.com. Thurs.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Free.

JUNE 6–8

Coshocton Hot Air Balloon Festival

Have high-flying fun at this event that has been celebrated for over 40 years. Enjoy food trucks, craft vendors, rides, entertainment, a night glow and fireworks. Coshocton County Fairgrounds, 707 Kenilworth Ave., Coshocton, 740/622-4877. coshoctonhotairballoonfestival.com. 4–11 p.m. Free.

JUNE 27–29

Ashland Ohio Balloonfest

Go up, up and away at this colorful gathering all about balloons. Plus, participate in a cornhole tournament, listen to live music and dig into local food. Freer Field, 1264 Center St., Ashland, 877/581-2345. ashlandohioballoonfest.com. Visit website for times. Free.

JUNE 28–29

Monster Fest

Prepare for a fright at this annual event featuring a panel, guest Q&A, vendors and, most notably, a Small Town Monsters film premiere. Canton Palace Theatre, 605 Market Ave. N., Canton, 330/722-5502. smalltownmonsters.com. Visit website for times. Adults $20.50–$25, children 12 and under free.

JUNE 28–30

Cy Young Days Festival

Celebrate this Ohio-born Major League Baseball pitcher with a parade, run, car show, vintage baseball games and more. Downtown Newcomerstown, East State Street, Newcomerstown, 740/227-1544. cyyoungdaysfestival. com. Visit website for times. Free.

Museums + Exhibits

THRU JULY 14

Marilyn Stafford: A Life in Photography

See the work of this northeast Ohio photographer who lived a fascinating, vibrant life and has the photos to prove it. The exhibition highlights the work, people and issues important to Stafford, providing a reflective look at significant events of the 20th century. Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron, 330/376-9186. akronart museum.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU JULY 28

A Material World: Janice Jakielski’s Impossible Objects

This insightful exhibition highlights the casting and manipulation of ultra-thin porcelain sheets into beautiful objects. The meticulous work coaxes audiences to draw near to each piece, closing the gap between viewer and form. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton, 330/453-7666. cantonart.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU JULY 28

Ginny Ruffner: Reforestation of the Imagination

Head to this traveling exhibition from the Smithsonian American Art Museum, which features the work of one artist who combines traditional sculpture and augmented reality technology. Canton Museum of Art, 1001 Market Ave. N., Canton, 330/453-7666. cantonart.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU AUG 11

Monet in Focus

View five stellar paintings by this renowned French Impressionist, featuring three special loans from the Musée Marmottan Monet in Paris. These works were created during the latter half of Monet’s life and reveal his full immersion into capturing momentary light and atmosphere. Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216/421-7350. clevelandart.org. Visit website for times. Free.

THRU SEPT 8

Fairy Tales and Fables: Illustration and Storytelling in Art

Explore the history of book illustration through many rarely seen works from the museum’s collection. View images from artist Arthur Rackman, who is said to have helped shaped fantasy art

as we know it today. Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216/421-7350. clevelandart.org. Visit website for times. Free.

Music + Theater

THRU NOV 9

“Ruth:” An Original Sight & Sound Theatres Production

Don’t miss the unforgettable biblical story of “Ruth” as it unfolds on the stage of the Ohio Star Theater in Sugarcreek. Using the script and score created by Sight & Sound Theatres, Ohio Star Theater has produced the musical in their own way, with their own cast and crew. Ohio Star Theater, 1387 Old Route 39 NE, Sugarcreek, 855/344-7547. dhgroup.com/theaters/the-ohiostar-theater. 1 & 7 p.m. $49–$64.

JUNE 1

Jazz Under the Stars: The Dan Zola Orchestra

Enjoy opening night of this year’s “Jazz under the Stars” concert series with a performance by the Dan Zola Orchestra. Musical Director Eric Dregne will lead the high-energy act in an evening of classic performances. In the event of rain, the concert will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Medina. Uptown Park, 79-89 Public Square, Medina, 419/853-6016. ormaco. org. 7–9 p.m. Free.

JUNE 9

Hichem Ferrah, Guitar: Algerian-Inspired Music

Attend this “Live at the Library” performance by Hichem Ferrah, a North Ridgeville-based musician. Ferrah will play instrumental tunes inspired by traditional Algerian music, and afterward, he will be available to answer questions about Algerian culture and song. Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., Wadsworth, 419/8536016. ormaco.org. 2–3 p.m. Free.

JUNE 13

3 Heath Brothers

Experience an unforgettable evening with the 3 Heath Brothers as they perform re-envisioned Christian music. Choose to add a preshow meal with dessert to enjoy in the cozy dining room. Hartville Kitchen Restaurant, 1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-9353. hartvillekitchen. com/events. 7 p.m. $30–$62.50.

JUNE 20

Elvis

Renowned Elvis tribute artist Lonnie Jay Freeman comes to Hartville to dazzle audiences with captivating portrayals of Elvis’s early life, comeback and Las Vegas-era in a spectacular matinee performance. Hartville Kitchen Restaurant, 1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville, 330/877-9353. hartvillekitchen.com/events. 1 p.m. $30–$62.50.

JUNE 20

Vino Musica at The Cave at Gervasi Vineyard

At Vino Musica, guests can enjoy an elegant wine tasting in The Cave at Gervasi, accompanied by music selections performed by Rolando. This artful experience includes four wines to sample and a small bite. Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330/4971000. gervasivineyard.com. 6:30 p.m. $34.

JUNE 21

Erin Nicole Neal & The Chill Factors

Enjoy this installment of the “Music at the Arboretum” concert series with Cleveland-based band Erin Nicole Neal & The Chill Factors. The eclectic group will perform variations of blues, rock, pop, soul, jazz and funk. In the event of rain, the concert will be held at Fisher Auditorium in Wooster. John Streeter Garden Amphitheater, 2122 Williams Rd., Wooster, 419/853-6016. ormaco.org. 6:30–8 p.m. Free.

JUNE 25

Dave Matthews Band

Embrace tradition as the iconic rock band takes this outdoor stage for a special live performance as part of their extensive summer tour across the country. Jam out to some of the group’s biggest hits, including “Ants Marching” and “Crash Into Me,” as well as new songs from their latest album, “Walk Around the Moon.” Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 330/920-8040. livenation.com 7:30 p.m. $68–$628.

JUNE 29–30

Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark Relive the magic of this film that introduced one of the most iconic movie heroes of all time. Watch the archaeologist and treasure hunter expertly escape peril on the big screen as the

Cleveland Orchestra performs John Williams’ treasured score live. Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 330/920-8040. clevelandamphitheater.com. 7–11 p.m. Visit website for prices.

OTHER EVENTS

JUNE 1–2

Ohio Valley Frontier Days

Step back in time and experience life on the Ohio frontier with the soldiers, settlers and surveyors who began the westward movement. While you’re there, take part in music, crafts, activities and fun for all. Historic Fort Steuben, 120 S. Third St., Steubenville, 866/301-1787. oldfortsteuben.com. Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Visit website for prices.

JUNE 13

Journey Through Italy: Gervasi Vineyard’s Pavilion Dinner

Head to Gervasi for an unforgettable culinary journey. Indulge in an exquisite five-course dinner complete with wine pairings that has been meticulously curated by chef Ryan Bowen in order to showcase the diverse flavors of Italy’s renowned regions. Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, 330-497-1000. gervasivineyard.com. 6:30 p.m. $140.

JUNE 15

Berlin Summer Spectacular: A Family Fun Day

From unique art to mouthwatering treats, there’s something for everyone at this event held in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country. Enjoy a day of family-friendly festivities, shopping from local artisans, food trucks and more. Berlin Main Street, St. Rte. 39, Berlin, 330/231-0964. visitberlinohio. com. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

Tribute Artist Lonnie Jay Freeman

JUNE 22

720 MKT in Massillon

Enjoy open-air, artisan shopping in Massillon’s Duncan Plaza with the makers, bakers, brewers and growers of 720 Market. Find live music, food trucks, coffee and craft beer at this family-friendly event. Duncan Plaza, 2 James Duncan Plaza, Massillon, 330/571-0367. eventsby720.com. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

Northwest Festivals

JUNE 7–8

Pork Rind Heritage Festival

Pig out at this weekend event packed with family fun, entertainment and Rudolph Foods’ famous popped pork rinds. The event features food vendors, a cruise-in car show, parade and more. Downtown Harrod, South Main Street, Harrod, 419/234-6056. porkrindfest.com. Fri. 6 p.m.–midnight, Sat. 9 p.m.–midnight. Free.

JUNE 22

Farmer Jones Farm Market’s Strawberry Festival Indulge in the sweet celebration of summer, and delight your taste buds with a baking contest as you savor delectable treats from a food truck and groove to live music. With activities for all ages, the festival promises a “berry” good time for everyone in attendance. Farmer Jones Farm Market, 1517 Scheid Rd., Huron, 567/623-9260. farmerjonesfarm.com. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

JUNE 22

Ohio’s Island Wine Fest

Head to Put-In-Bay for the second celebration of Ohio’s Island Wine Festival at Heineman’s Winery. Taste Ohio’s finest wines provided by a variety of regional producers as you enjoy good food, shop from vendors and sit back for an afternoon of live musical entertainment courtesy of local musician Lucas Guy on the lawn of the winery. DeRivera Park, Bayview Avenue, Put-In-Bay, 419/285-2832. visitputinbay.com. 11–5 p.m. Gate price $37, pre-sale tickets $32, non-wine drinkers $10.

JUNE 28–30

Put-In-Bay Pyrate Festival

Calling all pirates and their families to attend the 16th year of the Put-in-Bay Pyrate Festival. On Saturday and Sunday, take part in this free, family-friendly event that features vendors, treasure hunts, pirates and much more. DeRivera Park, Bayview Avenue, Put-In-Bay, 419/285-2832. visitputinbay.com. 11–5 p.m. Free.

Museums + Exhibits

THRU SEPT 1

Beth Lipman: ReGift

See this sculptural installation that features a three-quarter-scale replica of the parlor of Edward and Florence Libbey’s Old West End home. Toledo Museum of Art, 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, 419/255-8000. toledomuseum.org. Visit website for times. Free.

THRU DEC 31

Chasing Totality: The History and Science of Eclipses

Explore the story of humanity’s fascination with

eclipses at this exhibit that looks at the science and the history of astronomy’s attempts to understand them. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419/332-2081. rbhayes.org. Visit website for times and prices.

Music + Theater

JUNE 12

Verandah Concert Series

Enjoy tunes from the Lake Plains Barbershop Chorus on this property’s expansive, shady lawn. Make sure to bring your own chairs or blankets — plus money for ice cream. Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, Spiegel Grove, Fremont, 419/332-2081. rbhayes.org. 7 p.m. Free.

JUNE 25

Bonnie Raitt: “Just Like That…” Tour

Listen to the hits of this famed American blues singer, including “I Can’t Make You Love Me” and “Something to Talk About.” Raitt is touring with opening act James Hunter. Stranahan Theater, 4645 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, 419/381-8851. stranahantheater.com. 7:30 p.m. $50.50–$136.

Other Events

THRU AUG 9

Limaland Motorsport Park Races

Visit “northwest Ohio’s quarter-mile of thunder,” a 40-acre facility and racetrack for motor events, every Friday night in May through mid-August.

Limaland Motorsports Park, 1500 Dutch Hollow Rd., Lima, 419/998-3199. limaland.com. 7:30–10:30 p.m. Adults $12, children $6.

JUNE 22

Tractors, Tractors, Tractors

Get an up-close look at farming machines, including historic tractors dating from the 1920s through the 1960s. View International Harvesters, Farmalls, Silver Kings, Molines, John Deere tractors and more. Sauder Village, 22611 St. Rte. 2, Archbold, 800/590-9755. saudervillage. org. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Southeast

Festivals

JUNE 1

Chillicothe BrewFest

Raise a glass to this interactive annual festival. Talk with nationally recognized Ohio-based brewers, sample beer from local breweries and listen to live music. Downtown Chillicothe, North Paint Street, Chillicothe, downtownchillicothe. com. 1:30–7 p.m. $20–$50.

JUNE 13–15

Logan Washboard Arts & Music Festival

See the streets of downtown Logan come alive during this celebration of one of our country’s most unique musical instruments. Enjoy a spectacular musical lineup, peruse a car show and arts and crafts displays and bring the kids

for free children’s activities. Plus, tour the last manufacturing washboard factory in the nation. Downtown Logan, N. Mulberry St., Logan, 740/385-9706. explorehockinghills.com. Visit website for times. Free.

JUNE 14–15

Art on the Square

Head to historic downtown Caldwell for this event showcasing local crafters and artists. Peruse a wide selection of heritage works, home furnishings, quilts and paintings while enjoying artist demonstrations, live music, food and more. Downtown Caldwell, 419 West St., Caldwell, 740/732-5288. visitnoblecountyohio.com. Fri. 5–9 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

JUNE 15

Kenworth Truck Parade

Celebrate the third year of this lively event showcasing over 50 new, classic and customized Kenworth semi-trucks, most of which were made in Chillicothe. Downtown Chillicothe, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, kenworth.com. 8:30–10 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

THRU JUNE 9

The Wizard of Oz Immerse yourself in the classic story of young Dorothy Gale as she is swept away by a tornado from her Kansas farm to the magical land of Oz. Join her as she encounters a host of whimsical characters from good witches and bad witches to animals that talk and scarecrows that walk. Cambridge Performing Arts Center, 642 Wheeling Ave., Cambridge, 740/785-1400. cambridgetheater.org. Fri.–Sat. 7–9:30 p.m., Sun. 3–5:30 p.m. $12.

JUNE 8

Chillicothe Jazz, Funk & Blues Concert

Enjoy this one-night performance featuring five bands: Yoctangee Fire, YOLO Band, Thump Daddy Funk Band, Urban Jazz Coalition and the Hitman Blues Band. Majestic Theatre, 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, 740/772-2041. majesticchillicothe.net. 6–10 p.m. $40.

JUNE 14–SEPT 1

Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama

Witness action-packed battle scenes, heart-pounding drama and the timeless legacy of the legendary Shawnee leader, Tecumseh, as the outdoor drama comes alive on the Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre stage. Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, 5988 Marietta Rd., Chillicothe, 866/775-0700. tecumsehdrama. com. 8 p.m. $30–$55.

JUNE 20–23

Hipp-Stage Productions Presents: Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

See this musical telling the journey of Joseph, son of Jacob and one of twelve brothers, and his famous coat. A lively and colorful journey from Canaan to Egypt, this show follows the story of Joseph, his 11 brothers, their wives, the people they encounter and the coat of many colors. Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 740/371-5152. peoplesbanktheatre.com. 8 p.m. Adults $30, children $20.

JUNE 27

Trace Adkins Somewhere in America Tour

Grab a ticket to this live performance from multiplatinum country music artist Trace Adkins, a man with a booming baritone and a commanding stage presence. Peoples Bank Theatre, 222 Putnam St., Marietta, 740/371-5152. peoplesbanktheatre.com. 8 p.m. $99–$264.

Other Events

JUNE 1

Adena Worthingtons vs. Ohio Village Muffins

Watch the Adena Worthingtons challenge the

Ohio Village Muffins in a doubleheader exhibition of vintage baseball played with 19th-century rules. Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 740/772-1500. adenamansion. com. 2–4 p.m. Free.

JUNE 6–8

Southern Ohio Forest Rally

Rev your engines, and head to the Southern Ohio Forest Rally for a high-speed, all-terrain, extreme motor sport display. Watch rally cars compete in exciting timed sprints on various roads. Yoctangee Park, 1 Enderlin Circle, Chillicothe, southernohioforestrally.com. Tues.–Thurs. 3–7 p.m., Fri.–Sat. 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Free.

JUNE 9

The Impact of World Heritage in Our Community with Melody Young Learn from the executive director of Visit Chillicothe as she discusses the impact the World Heritage designation of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks will have on the community. Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 800/319-7248. adenamansion.com. 2–3 p.m. Free.

Southwest Festivals

JUNE 1–2

Ohio Valley Indigenous Music Festival

Attend a lively weekend of award-winning Native American flute music. Shop from vendors selling Native American flutes, crafts and food. Patricia Allyn Park, 7266 St. Rte. 48, Springboro, 937/657-5466. facebook.com/theohiovalley indigenousmusicfestival. Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Free.

JUNE 1–2

Troy Strawberry Festival

Have a sweet time at this event jam-packed with strawberry-themed food and drink, delicious doughnuts, children’s activities and a number of local arts and crafts vendors. Miami County Fairgrounds, 650 N. County Rd., Troy, 937/3397714. troystrawberryfest.com. Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Free.

JUNE 15

Celtic Fest Ohio

Listen to live music, drink a Guinness and enjoy Celtic shopping at this lively festival. Plus, sample Irish cuisine, participate in “Shamrock Shenanigans,” attend a whiskey tasting and watch the 42nd Royal Highland Regiment Encampment. Renaissance Park, 10542 E. St. Rte. 73, Waynesville, 513/897-7000. celticfestohio. com. 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Free.

JUNE 19

Juneteenth

Celebrate freedom at this family-friendly event featuring local vendors, food trucks, children’s crafts and live music. Dayton-based, reggae-infused, funk and soul band Luv Locz Experiment will play all evening. Fraze Pavilion, 695 Lincoln Park Blvd., Kettering, 937/296-3300. fraze.com. 5–8 p.m. Free.

Museums + Exhibits

THRU JULY 28

Mounds, Moon and Stars: The Legacy of Ohio’s Magnificent Earthworks

Learn more about the presence of the visionary people of the Hopewell culture. Today, residents are still discovering the depth of their engineering expertise, artistic brilliance and influential, spiritual worldview. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, 513/868-8336. pyramidhill.org. Noon–5 p.m. Free with park admission.

THRU AUG 18

From Shanghai to Ohio: Woo Chong Yung View works from this highly accomplished Chinese painter, calligrapher and poet who operated at the center of China’s cultural world nearly a decade ago. Yung came to Columbus in the 1960s and is considered a legend in Ohio’s capital city. This exhibition features nearly 100 pieces of his works, including calligraphy, carved seals and a Taiji sword. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, 513/721-2787. cincinnatiartmuseum.org. Visit website for times. Free.

THRU SEPT 15

Moment in Time: A Legacy of Photographs

See more than 100 photographs dating from the art form’s advent in the 1830s to the mid-20th century. View works from renowned artists, including Henri Cartier-Bresson, Ansel Adams and Dorothea Lange. Taft Museum of Art, 316 Pike St., Cincinnati, 513/241-0343. taftmuseum. org. Wed.–Mon. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $12, seniors $10, members, military and children under 18 free.

THRU SEPT 22

Captivating Clay: Contemporary Japanese Ceramics from the Horvitz Collection

View ceramic pieces collected from across eight decades at this exhibit highlighting the many ways in which clay can be used. The exhibition includes over 30 works from innovative pioneers in the 20th century as well as emerging artists. Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N., Dayton, 937/223-4278. daytonartinstitute. org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU SEPT 22

Hand-Colored Photographs

View this exhibition featuring portrait, landscape, still life and advertising photos printed in black and white and hand-colored. Those who worked with this art form, which saw a decline around the 1960s due to reliable color photography, ranged from professionals to amateurs. Dayton Art Institute, 456 Belmonte Park N., Dayton, 937/223-4278. daytonartinstitute.org. Visit website for times and prices.

THRU SEPT 29

The Culture: Hip Hop and Contemporary Art in the 21st Century

Enjoy this exhibition exploring hip hop’s groundbreaking influence on society. See over 90 works from celebrated artists like Carrie Mae Weems, William Cordova and Hassan Hajjaj. Cincinnati Art Museum, 953 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, 513/721-2787. cincinnatiartmuseum.

org. Tues.–Wed. & Fri.–Sun. 11 a.m.–5 p.m., Thurs. 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

JUNE 15

Joey Fatone & AJ McLean

Party all night with an evening of pop music from original performers of *NSYNC and Backstreet Boys fame. Fraze Pavilion, 695 Lincoln Park Blvd., Kettering, 937/296-3300. fraze.com. 8 p.m. $55–$85.

Other Events

THRU JULY 26

Summer Series for Kids

From creating artwork to meeting critters, these summer art and nature workshops provide kids ages 5 to 12 with hands-on learning experiences in the great outdoors. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, 513/868-8336. pyramidhill.org. 1 p.m. Non-members $15, members $5.

JUNE 22

Moth Night

Learn about the various species of moths that inhabit this Ohio preserve. Bring a flashlight and camera and hope the moths say “cheese.” The night is led by naturalists Jim Lemon and Jim McCormac. Cedar Bog Nature Preserve, 980 Woodburn Rd., Urbana, 937/484-3744. ohiohistory.org. 9:30–11 p.m. Free.

JULY

Central

Festivals

JULY 13–14

Columbus Book Festival

This free festival held at Main Library and Topiary Park features 200-plus authors, author talks, panel discussions and book signings. Check out the Festival Marketplace with Indie Author Alley, retailers, entertainment and delicious food. Columbus Metropolitan Library, 96 S. Grant Ave., Columbus, 614/645-2275. columbusbookfestival.org. Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

JULY 19–21

Columbus Jazz and Rib Fest

Dig into delicious food and concessions while listening to several local musicians. This highly anticipated summertime tradition offers the area’s finest in both music and barbecue. Scioto

Mile, 233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, hotribscooljazz.org. Fri.–Sat. 11 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

JULY 4

Central Ohio Symphony: July 4th Concert

Join the Columbus Symphony for this July 4th concert, featuring bombastic patriotic music, including the “1812 Overture” complete with cannon blasts. Be sure to stay for the fireworks following the concert. This event is a great way for families to celebrate the holiday, and seating on the lawn is free. OWU Phillips Glen, 61 S. Sandusky St., Delaware, 740/362-1799. centralohiosymphony.org. 7:30 p.m. Reserved chairs $10, all others free.

JULY 6–14

MTVarts: Footloose The Musical

MTVarts presents “Footloose: The Musical” at the historic Woodward Opera House. This retelling of a beloved classic celebrates the wisdom of listening to young people while guiding them with a warm heart and open mind. Woodward Opera House, 107 S. Main St., Mt. Vernon, 740/830-6040. mtvarts.com/2024-season/ footloose. Visit website for times and prices.

JULY 26

Rain: A Tribute to the Beatles

Experience an electrifying concert celebrating music’s fab four. Hear note-for-note precision as you travel back to the Magical Mystery Tour era. The band dresses in vibrant costumes while playing your favorite hits in front of a backdrop of psychedelic visuals. KEMBA Live!, 405 Neil Ave., Columbus, 614/461-5483. promowestlive. com. 6 p.m. $25–$65.

Other Events

JULY 14

Community Volunteer Day: Preserving Native Plants

Join the arboretum team in rescuing native plants and restoring habitats at Red Barn Reserve. This important work promotes biodiversity in the area. Dawes Arboretum, 7770 Jacksontown Rd., Newark, 740/323-2355. dawesarb. org. 9 a.m.–noon. Visit website for prices.

JULY 18

Cocktails at the Conservatory: Reds, Whites & Boozed

Spend the evening in sophistication by relaxing in comfortable lounge seating and listening to soulful jazz tunes. Line up to take a picture in the 360-degree photo booth, and take time to color images of plants, wine glasses and more while enjoying selections from local wineries. Franklin

Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, 614/715-8000. fpconservatory.org. 5:30–9:30 p.m. Nonmembers $35, members $30.

Northeast Festivals

JULY 13

Maple Splash Festival

Enjoy food, beer, wine, live music and games at this evening celebration. Join in on a raffle with a grand prize of a 2023 Chevy Silverado. Century Village Museum, 14653 E. Park St., Burton, 440/834-1492. centuryvillagemuseum.org. 4–9 p.m. Free.

JULY 20

Willoughby Arts Fest

Peruse the art-filled streets of this historic downtown as you shop from local boutiques. Customers can also stop in at an abundance of area restaurants. Downtown Willoughby, Erie Street, Willoughby, 440/942-1632. willoughbyartsfest.com. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

JULY 26–28

Wine & Walleye Festival

Spend the weekend at this jam-packed event, which includes a street fair, fish tent, wine tent, live entertainment, a dock party and tours. Plus, take part in a fishing tournament, watch a lighted boat parade, enjoy a fireworks cruise and participate in a 5K race. Historic Ashtabula Harbor, 1003 Bridge St., Ashtabula, wineandwalleye festival.com. Fri. 3–9 p.m., Sat. 6:15 a.m.–9:30 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

Museums + Exhibits

JULY 21–JAN 5

Picturing the Border

View photographs from the United StatesMexico borderlands spanning from the 1970s to present day. Works have been created by border residents and outsiders and show varied subject matter, including domestic portraits, migration narratives and political demonstrations. Cleveland Museum of Art, 11150 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216/421-7350. clevelandart.org. Tues., Thurs. & Sat.–Sun. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Wed. & Fri. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

JULY 6

Jazz Under the Stars: Carol Leslie

Enjoy a summer night with Carol Leslie, a Scottish jazz vocalist from northeast Ohio. The concert will showcase jazz, blues, R&B, gospel and contemporary music. Uptown Park, Public Square, Medina, 419/853-6016. ormaco.org. 7–8:30 p.m. Free.

JULY 7

Tina Bergmann & Bryan Thomas: World Folk Music for Hammered Dulcimer & Bass

Spend the afternoon watching this “Live at the Library” performance showcasing American old-time, Celtic and South American tunes on

hammered dulcimer and bass. Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., Wadsworth, 419/8536016. ormaco.org. 2–3 p.m. Free.

JULY 16

Earth, Wind and Fire & Chicago

Dance the night away and take a trip back in time as these two musical giants perform some of their biggest hits, such as “Boogie Wonderland,” “September,” “If You Leave Me Now” and “You’re the Inspiration.” Blossom Music Center, 1145 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, 330/920-8040. clevelandamphitheater.com. 7:30 p.m. $42–$556.

JULY 19

Rachel Brown & The Beatnik Playboys

Spend the evening at this “Music at the Arboretum” performance. Be carried away by powerful vocals as the band performs country, oldies, rock and blues. In the event of rain, the concert will be held at Fisher Auditorium in Wooster. John Streeter Garden Amphitheater, 2122 Williams Rd., Wooster, 419/853-6016. ormaco.org. 6:30–9:30 p.m. Free.

JULY 25–28

9 to 5 The Musical

Watch this hilarious story of friendship and revenge that takes place in the Rolodex era unfold. Three unlikely friends take control of their office and learn there is nothing they can’t do — even in a man’s world. Lorain Performing Arts Center, 2600 Ashland Ave., Lorain, 440/2338487. loraincommunitymusictheater.org. Tues.–Sat. 7:30–10 p.m., Sun. 2–4:30 p.m. Adults $18, children and seniors $16.

Northwest

Festivals

JULY 13

All Washed Up Driftwood Art Festival

View numerous pieces of driftwood art created by professional and amateur artists at this festival held in Vermilion. Craft your own driftwood entries or purchase some to take home. Exchange Park, 641 Main St., Vermilion, mainstreetvermilion.org/driftwood. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Free.

JULY 16–21

Summer Moon Festival

Honor Neil Armstrong’s journey to the moon in the famed astronaut’s hometown. Enjoy live music, local vendors, several contests and things to see and do at the museum, among other activities. Armstrong Air & Space Museum, 500 Apollo Dr., Wapakoneta, 419/738-8811. armstrongmuseum.org. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Visit website for prices.

JULY 25

National Merry-Go-Round Day

Celebrate this whimsical holiday with discounted museum admission and one ride on the destination’s beloved carousel. Merry-GoRound Museum, 301 Jackson St., Sandusky, 419/626-6111. merrygoroundmuseum.org. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Visit website for prices.

JULY 26–28

Celina Lake Festival

Make a splash at this festival held along the banks of Grand Lake St. Marys, Ohio’s largest manmade inland lake. Guests can enjoy a variety of rides, food and drink options, art and craft shows, live musical entertainment, a fireworks display, a parade, a classic car show and much more. Lake Shore Drive, Celina, celinalakefest. com. Visit website for times and prices.

JULY 26–28

Northwest Ohio Rib Off

Dig into this delicious event promising live music, a cornhole tournament and local and national competitors hoping to be crowned Rib Off Champions. Adults can enjoy a plate of local ribs alongside a cold beer, while kids can take part in face painting, inflatables and more. Lucas County Fairgrounds, 1406 Key St., Maumee, 419/893-2127. nworiboff.com. Visit website for times. $10–$59.50.

JULY 27

Flair on the Square

Spend the day at this juried fine arts festival full of live entertainment, delicious culinary treats and local, fresh market goods. The event’s goal is to cultivate, encourage and develop public appreciation and support of the visual arts for the enjoyment of the citizens of Bryan and the surrounding tristate communities. Downtown Bryan, 138 S. Lynn St., Bryan, 419/636-2247. flaironthesquare.com. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

JULY 13

Hotel California

After forming in the 1980s and continuing to tour to this day, this Eagles cover band embraces the easy-going warmth of the original group and exemplifies the sweet sound of southern California of yore. Centennial Terrace, 5773 Centennial Rd. , Sylvania, 419/885-7106. centennialterrace. org. 8 p.m. $21–$34.

Other Events

JULY 4

Star Spangled Spectacular & Fireworks

Celebrate the fourth in downtown Lima. Run or walk the Freedom 5K, enjoy a car cruise, participate in a youth fishing derby and soak up the sounds of the Lima Area Concert Band. The night ends with a fireworks show. Woodlawn Avenue and Collett Street, Lima, 419/223-1010. lima4th.com. 9 a.m.–11:15 p.m. Free

Southeast Festivals

JULY 5–6

Ohio JeepFest

Whether you’re a seasoned Jeep enthusiast or just curious about Jeep culture, head to this event honoring the beloved brand. Explore a wide range of Jeep models, meet fellow Jeep lovers and enjoy thrilling off-road adventures. Ross County Fairgrounds, 344 Fairgrounds Rd.,

Chillicothe, 740/775-5083. ohiojeepfest.com. Noon–11:30 p.m. Free–$400.

JULY 7

19th Century Independence Day Celebration

Celebrate Independence Day in 1800s fashion as you witness a reading of a portion of the Declaration of Independence, a rundown of patriotic poems, a presentation of the flag and a toast to George Washington. Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 740/7721500. adenamansion.com. 2–2:30 p.m. Free.

JULY 12–14

Lilyfest

Immerse yourself in plants for the premier outdoor education and gardening event of the year. Walk on hiking trails, enjoy a Viking village and visit a forest friends exhibition for children of all ages. Look at work from over 60 fine artists and craftspeople specializing in pottery, jewelry, glasswork and more. Plus, enjoy Chef Moe’s On-the-Go sandwiches, salads and special desserts. Bishop Educational Gardens, 13200 Little Cola Rd., Rockbridge, 740/969-2873. lilyfest.com. Fri. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Sun. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free.

JULY 19

ArtWalk

Join in on downtown Lancaster’s most popular night. Stroll through the beautiful historic city and enjoy the juried exhibitions of local and regional artists. Plus, enjoy live music on stage and from talented street performers. Downtown Lancaster, 128 N. Broad St., Lancaster, 740/277-6607. destinationdowntownlancaster.com. 6–9 p.m. Free.

AUG 2–3

Hocking Hills Bigfoot Festival

Join the community for this lively weekend dedicated to this mythical cryptid. Hear from several speakers, listen to live music, participate in Bigfoot-themed activities, peruse local art, go on a night hike and enjoy Hocking Hills’ vibrant culture. Downtown Logan, N. Mulberry St., Logan, 740/385-9706. explorehockinghills.com. Fri.–Sat. 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Free.

Music + Theater

JULY 2

Open Mic Night

Sign up for a 15-minute slot and perform in this venue’s grand lobby. Songwriters, musicians, poets and writers are welcome to join and share their talents in a low-stakes, supportive environment. Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, 740/753-1924. stuartsoperahouse. org. 7–9 p.m. Visit website for prices.

JULY 10

Old Time Jam Night

Play and listen as instructor Joe Burdock leads attendees in learning a fiddle tune. Just bring your instrument and a musical spirit. For those who don’t play, enjoy listening to other musicians while enjoying a drink from the bar. Feel free to stay late for the open jam session. Stuart’s Opera House, 52 Public Square, Nelsonville, 740/753-1924. stuartsoperahouse.org. 6:30–8:30 p.m. Free.

JULY 26–28

Nelsonville Music Festival

This three-day festival in the Appalachian foothills features 40-plus artists, including headlining acts Killer Mike, Courtney Barnett and Thee Sacred Souls. Enjoy camping, kids activities, artisan vendors, local food and more. Snow Fork Event Center, 685 Happy Hollow Rd., Nelsonville, 740/753-1924. nelsonvillefest.org. 9 a.m.–11:30 p.m. $160 and up.

Other Events

JULY 11–13

Pottery Lovers Show and Sale

Calling all art pottery enthusiasts to Zanesville, the “Pottery Capital of the World” to participate in this weekend event. Shop for rare art pottery at the Holiday Inn Express and see beautiful art pottery at the Zanesville Museum of Art. Holiday Inn Express Zanesville and Zanesville Museum of Art, 1101 Spring St. and 620 Military Rd., Zanesville, 740/452-0741. potterylovers.org, zanesvilleart.org. Free.

JULY 14

Ladies of the House

Join local Worthington family historian Mary Anne Brown for a discussion about the ladies of the Adena Mansion. Adena Mansion & Gardens, 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, 740/772-1500. adenamansion.com. 2–3 p.m. Free.

Southwest Festivals

JULY 13

Kickin’ Chicken Wing Fest 2024

Make your way to this sizzling-hot event packed with live music and mouthwatering chicken. Fraze Pavilion, 695 Lincoln Park Blvd., Kettering, 937/296-3300. fraze.com. 3–10 p.m. Free.

JULY 25–27

Cincinnati Music Festival

Head to the Queen City to hear the sounds of some of your favorite artists, with a star-studded lineup including Ne-Yo, Fantasia, Kem and

Coco Jones. Paycor Stadium, 1 Paycor Stadium, Cincinnati, cincymusicfestival.com. Visit website for times and prices.

JULY 26–28

Annie Oakley Festival

Honor “Little Sure Shot” during this lively weekend that hosts an Annie’s Memorial Shoot contest, car show, kiddie tractor pull and other participatory activities. Plus, enjoy musical entertainment, historic bus tours, a parade and a western arts showcase. Darke County Fairgrounds, 800 Sweitzer St., Greenville, 937/5648060. annieoakleyfestival.org. Fri.–Sat. 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Free.

JULY 26–28

United Irish of Dayton Celtic Fest

Enjoy three days of Irish entertainment, including several lively bands like JigJam, Gaelic Storm and The Fitzgeralds. Shop at the marketplace, run or walk a 5K or 10K and dig into delicious Irish eats. Choose from 20 food vendors, including Irish Whiskey Chops, Dublin Pub, Bessie’s Noodles and The Hamburger Wagon. RiverScape MetroPark, 237 E. Monument Ave., Dayton, daytoncelticfestival.com. Fri. 5:30–11 p.m., Sat. 11:30 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun. 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Free.

AUG 3

Ohio River Paddlefest

Head to the nation’s largest paddling celebration that sees an estimated 2,000 participants traveling the Ohio River through downtown Cincinnati and northern Kentucky in canoes, kayaks and other human-powered craft. The event was established in 2001 and benefits Adventure Crew, a Cincinnati-based nature organization serving teenagers. Schmidt Recreation Complex, 2944 Humbert Ave., Cincinnati, ohioriverpaddlefest.org. 7 a.m.–2 p.m. Adults $50–$75, children $25.

Music + Theater

JULY 10

Norah Jones: Visions Tour 2024 Touring for her latest album, “Visions,” Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter and pianist Norah Jones, accompanied by Mavis Staples, is making a stop in Huber Heights. “Visions” represents a stark departure from Jones’ previous album, “Pick Me Up Off the Floor,” exploring themes of freedom, acceptance and positivity. Rose Music Center, 6800 Executive Blvd., Huber Heights, 937/610-0288. rosemusiccenter. com. 7:30 p.m. Visit website for prices.

Other Events

AUG 2

Outdoors for All Expo

Celebrate all things outdoors at this expo where you can peruse booths from over 50 exhibitors, including local parks, outdoor outfitters, adventure experts and environmentally minded organizations. Take part in hands-on demos, listen to live music by local bands, participate in raffles and enjoy beer and food truck fare. Schmidt Recreation Complex, 2944 Humbert Ave., Cincinnati, ohioriverpaddlefest.org. 4–9:30 p.m. Free.

FARM & TABLE

Air Time: These outdoor dining experiences are perennial summer favorites. If you’re too late for this year, set a reminder to buy tickets for 2025.

Pickle Bill’s Lobster House in Grand River serves up a side of kitsch with its popular lineup of seafood, all-you-can-eat options and famous fried pickles. »

of outdoor seating and a continued dedication to sustainability.

Jackie O’s on Fourth: This favorite southeast Ohio brewery opened a Columbus taproom with plenty

FARM & TABLE Air TIME

Step inside Pickle Bill’s Lobster House, look in any direction and you’ll be overwhelmed by the dozens of knickknacks and tchotchkes that fill the space, most of which were collected by the restaurant’s late founder, Jerry Powell. There’s a realistic-looking alligator and taxidermized forest critters in a nature tableau, while overhead, a tightrope walker stands suspended next to an 8-foot-long shark.

“My husband was a great collector,” says Marianne Powell, Jerry’s wife and owner of the Lake County restaurant. “Everywhere we went, he always collected something as we traveled. And we also had a lot of customers that would either donate or want to sell things that they had.”

Not only is this restaurant along the Grand River a joy to walk through, but it has a menu that matches the fun and eclectic atmosphere. The food ranges from soups and salads to seafood platters and seasonal specials like red snapper, but the eatery’s claim to fame is its all-you-can-eat dishes, which range from fried scallops to prime rib. Diners can even opt for the all-you-can-eat whole Maine lobster, which goes for $199.99.

“We put that on as a kind of … kitschy thing on the menu that people would just laugh about and think is funny,” Powell says. “Well, last week we sold seven or eight allyou-can-eat lobster.”

Menu highlights here include the ever-popular Alaskan snow crab (which can also be ordered all-you-can-eat-style), Lake Erie perch and walleye, fried dough with honey cinnamon butter and, of course, Pickle Bill’s famous fried pickles, which come with a side of ranch and Cleveland Ketchup Co.’s garlic dill ketchup.

Pickle Bill’s Lobster House has a seating capacity of nearly 700 people across its eight dining spaces, a far cry from when it opened in the village of Grand River in 1982 and only had seating for about 30. (The restaurant started in The Flats in Cleveland before moving east to Lake County 15 years later.)

On the main floor, visitors can dine on the covered patio or in the large interior space. During the summer, a dockside barge is brought out to provide additional seating. On the second floor, diners will find the tiki lounge and accompanying rooftop bar, each fitted with a stage for live performances throughout the summer.

“Being on the water is such a draw for people,” Powell says. “And the location [is] conducive to having boats pull up. … We even had somebody come by seaplane one time.” — Erin Finan

101 River St., Grand River 44045, 800/352-6343, picklebills.com

These outdoor dining experiences are perennial summer favorites. They sell out quickly, so if you’re too late for this year, set a reminder to buy tickets for 2025. — Sean Eifert

Plated Landscape Dinners

Chef Ben Bebenroth’s Spice Hospitality Group serves its Plated Landscape dinners in scenic northeast Ohio settings. One location is Spice Acres Farm, which Bebenroth operates within Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The dinners there feature a multicourse meal of seasonal produce with a selection of wine pairings. spiceheadquarters.com

The Witten Farm Market

Washington County’s family-owned Witten Farm Market hosts outdoor dinners featuring the farm’s produce. Chef Katie Wainright-Tucker, owner of southeast Ohio-based mobile eatery Big Food Little Kitchen, prepares meals that are paired with wines, and guests dine just steps from where their food was grown. wittenfarm.com

Dine on a Covered Bridge

These dining events start at a local winery or brewery and include a trolly tour of four Union County covered bridges, including the Pottersburg Covered Bridge, where a meal awaits. Lunches feature foods from Marysville’s Amish Heritage Country Market, while dinners are catered by downtown Bellefontaine’s The Syndicate and feature local ingredients dineonacoveredbridge.com

BILL’S

Jackie O’s on Fourth

This favorite southeast Ohio brewery opened a Columbus taproom with plenty of outdoor seating and a continued dedication to its longstanding sustainability efforts.

Jackie O’s Brewery has long been a fixture in the college town of Athens, churning out creations like Chomolunga brown ale and Mystic Mama IPA. Owner Art Oestrike founded the brewery after buying and converting O’Hooley’s bar in 2005.

He named the business after his mother, and over the years Jackie O’s grew to include a public house and brewpub as well as a taproom and production facility in Athens. In 2023, Jackie O’s expanded once again, this time with a location in downtown Columbus. Oestrike says Ohio’s capital city has long been on his radar for expansion.

“There are more OU Bobcats living in Greater Columbus than there are humans of drinking age in Athens County,” he says with a laugh. “Columbus has always been one of our home markets. We’ve gotten more support [there] than any other city outside of Athens.”

Dubbed Jackie O’s on Fourth, the Columbus outpost is housed in the former Elevator

Brewery production facility. Jackie O’s converted the interior into an airy 6,000-squarefoot space with booths, tables, a concrete bar, bottle shop and upstairs event space.

The outside can accommodate even more as the brewery took over former parking spaces to add 8,000 square feet of patio space spread over two levels. There is a mezzanine strung with lights, a pair of firepits, a collection of picnic tables, small tables in concrete alcoves and even porch swings.

The Columbus taproom serves roughly 25 Jackie O’s brews and offers a full cocktail menu. For food, the brewery rounded up a trio of Columbus restaurateurs to create Goood Friends, a pop-up that serves overthe-top Midwest-inspired sandwiches for dinner and weekend brunch.

Jackie O’s has been lauded for its sustainability efforts, and the brewery has continued those endeavors in Columbus. The taproom’s roof is lined with 32 solar panels, and a retired fermentation tank on the mezzanine collects rainwater for the patio’s greenery.

“There’s also a plethora of plants, trees, shrubs and vines adorning the entire location,” Oestrike says. “I’m very excited to see where they go this year.” — Nicholas Dekker

171 N. Fourth St., Columbus 43215, 614/929-5265, jackieos.com

Wild for Wine

BY HOPE DUFFY | Unwind this summer with new animal friends as you sip your new favorite wine at these Ohio wineries.

Black Sheep Vineyard in Adena is a great place for animal lovers. There’s not sheep on the land anymore, but you can get to know their dogs and cat as you sip on one of their wines, such as Hair of the Dog, a semi-sweet red, or Bonnie, a sweet catawba wine. Want to try more of their offerings? For $6 you can taste 12 different wines to find your perfect match.

Say hi to the resident goats, ducks and chickens at Kelley’s Island Wine Co. on Kelleys Island. Cool off with a glass of Glacial White, a semidry white, or Sunset Pink, a sweet blush with tropical undertones. With the grounds serving as a family farm, the owners incorporate their homegrown vegetables and herbs into both dishes and wine at their winery and at their restaurant, The KI Cantina.

Harmony Hill Vineyards & Estate Winery in Bethel has been certified as a National Wildlife Federation Remote Wildlife Habitat since 2006 and the owner has been a purple martin landlord since 1995. Say hello to their miniature donkeys and look to the sky for the purple martins, who fledge over 100 chicks each summer. You may also catch a glimpse of deer and other wildlife as you stroll the walking trails with a glass of their semi-sweet Aria Rosé or Courante black currant dessert wine.

Yellow Butterfly Winery in Newcomerstown houses several beautiful alpacas that you can pet as they come up to the deck. At the winery’s gift shop, The Nook, visitors can often find scarves, socks, headbands, hats and gloves made from their alpaca wool. Take home a bottle of their semi-sweet Country Rose or their sweet Strawberry Fields.

Black Sheep Vineyard

Yellow Butterfly Winery

OHIO WINE MONTH

The start of summer means celebrating our winemakers. Here are four spots that provide a flavor of our state’s offerings and a directory to help plan your travels. By Ruth Corradi Beach

LINCOLN WAY VINEYARDS

OHIO WINE MONTH

Lincoln Way Vineyards | Wooster

Lincoln Way Vineyards’ slogan, “Find Your Wine Time,” is a phrase that partly draws on the sentiment of “it’s five o’clock somewhere,” but it also has a more literal meaning for owners Sherri and Jim Borton.

“Analog clocks were always sold [in stores] set at 10:10 because it looks like a smile,” says Sherri. “We combined the ‘L’ in our name with that idea, and our wine names are all times [when] the hands make an ‘L.’”

Each “time” is offered in a red, rose, and white, with 12:45 being the sparkling varieties because it’s the closest “L” to midnight.

Lincoln Way grows its grapes on a 10-acre vineyard, and everything else used in making the wine is sourced from within the state, from the blackberries used in the blackberry wine to the apples used in the dry-hopped hard cider (a kind of beer-cider hybrid).

Jim and Sherri’s children, daughter Ari and son Alex, work at the vineyard now, which is a big part of Lincoln Way’s mission. Alex recently constructed a shuttle wagon to give visitors the option to tour the property on nice days.

During the day, the atmosphere of the tasting room is laid-back, with people talking

and playing games, while Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings in the summer incorporate food trucks and live music. The family-friendly environment is suitable for kids, which the Bortons made a priority.

“As we planned our vineyards, we went to a lot of [wineries] and brought our kids,” Jim says. “We appreciated the places that welcomed us with open arms.” 9050 W. Old Lincoln Way, Wooster 44691, 330/804-9463, lincolnwayvineyards.com

Dutch Creek Winery | Athens

Cynthia and Paul Freedman, founders and owners of Dutch Creek Winery, are beekeepers first and foremost. After finding success keeping bees and making products from their honey like baked goods and ice cream, the couple moved into the realm of fruit wine and honey wine, also known as mead.

Fruit wines are sometimes referred to as country wines, and this 27-acre farm located about 8 miles from Ohio University embraces that idea with its beekeeping operation, fruit orchard, tasting room, covered porch and picnic grove.

“We’re a little nontraditional, and I relish that,” Paul says. “Our goal is to change the

Dutch Creek Winery in Athens (this page); Caesar Creek Winery in Xenia (opposite page)

accepted definition of wine by changing people’s minds about meads and country wines.”

One of the winery’s most popular offerings is its strawberry-Cayuga grape hybrid, which Paul describes as “sweet but with a bit of a tang.” Another bestseller is the bourbon-barrel honey wine made from homemade honey. It contains hints of the local florals that bees visit on the farm and is aged with wood from Kentucky bourbon barrels.

“It’s bourbon without the burn,” Paul says, “great for low-proof cocktails and as a substitute for bourbon.”

In the tasting room, there are four sweet ciders on tap (including a mint julep house cider) and one dry New England-style cider. There are local beers available too, including two served on tap that are made exclusively for Dutch Creek using the winery’s own honey and hops.

An Airbnb owned by the Freedmans is located nearby. Housed in a renovated train caboose, it makes a great place for vineyard visitors to retreat to after an evening at the winery. 12157 St. Rte. 690, Athens 45701, 740/818-4699, dutchcreekwinery.com

Caesar Creek Vineyards | Xenia

A visit to Caesar Creek Vineyards can feel a little like hanging out on your own property, if your property is a 200-acre farm growing 6 acres of grapes.

Although visitors are welcome to explore much of the vineyard’s outdoor space, the primary setting is a covered patio attached to the winery and tasting room. People can take their wine anywhere on the farm to enjoy it, however, including on the front porch of an old house on the property.

“You could even pretend you’re sitting on your own front porch,” says Charles Edwards, Caesar Creek’s manager and principal winemaker.

He began working part-time at the vineyard in 2012 before Walter Borda, the winery’s owner, offered him the opportunity to take online classes through Kent State University to learn about winemaking,

Edwards has run with the position, creating a variety of wines made from the Minnesota grapes grown on the property, and he takes pride in being able to craft wines using Ohio-grown grapes.

“I like making something that comes from the ground and represents our part of Ohio,” Edwards adds.

Caesar Creek Vineyards invites guests to bring their own food such as a picnic or piz-

OHIO WINE MONTH

za, and there’s even a grill on the property they can use during their visit. The communal feel is an aspect of the winery that Edwards truly appreciates.

“People interact with each other here, and it’s like an escape from the city or from work. You can hear the birds chirp, and it’s a great place to watch the sun set,” he says. “At the bar, everyone is talking and getting to know each other.” 962 Long Rd., Xenia 45385, 937/952-9388, caesarcreekvineyards.com

Norwalk’s Sandy Ridge Vineyards is located on a 30-acre property.

fact that] wine can bring out the best of certain dishes.”

When asked about the vineyards’ bestseller, the cabernet Franc, McFadden is quick to pair it with a dish at the restaurant.

“It’s a classic old-world style with soft, dark fruit, not tannic,” he says. “It pairs well with short rib tacos and is soft enough that it can be enjoyed with a charcuterie platter.”

Sandy Ridge Vineyards | Norwalk

Jamie McFadden is a chef by trade who has long been involved in the wine industry. As the owner of Sandy Ridge Vineyards, he is eager to offer guests specially curated foodand-wine pairings, which have been a driving force for the business since it opened.

“I want to help people make decisions and not feel intimidated …” McFadden says. “For me personally, it’s [sharing the

EXPLORE yours to

Sandy Ridge Vineyards is situated on a 30-acre property and features a barn that was built in the late 1800s. It has room for about 100 guests inside and on the terrace. In the 1960s, a family planted apple trees and other produce on the property. McFadden himself recalls picking strawberries there in the early 1980s, eventually moving to picking apples and pressing them for cider. The building was empty for two decades before McFadden bought it and opened Sandy Ridge.

“I wanted people to experience what I experienced as a child” he says. “When I walk by tables, people share their memories of the place with me. It’s a much more impactful experience than I ever thought it would be.”

180 St. Rte. 61 E., Norwalk 44857, 419/5048884, sandyridgevineyards.com

Raise a glass to the perfect lakeside escape

Located in the heart of Ohio Wine Country, The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake offers hotel and cottage lodging along with convenient winery tours. READY TO GO?

EXPERIENCE EASTON

A GETAWAY FOR TWO IN JEFFERSON COUNTY

27. Fayette County Travel & Tourism Bureau

28. Ferrante Winery & Ristorante

29. Fiona’s Coffee Bar & Bakery

30. French Ridge Vineyards

31. Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa

32. Grand Lake Visitors Region

33. Greater Parkersburg CVB (WV)

34. Guggisberg Inn, Winery & Riding Stables

35. Hale Farm & Village

36. Historic Downtown Millersburg

37. Hocking Hills Tourism Association

38. Holiday Valley

39. Homestead Furniture

40. Jefferson County West Virginia CVB

41. Kingwood Center Gardens

42. Knox County CVB

43. Lake County Visitors Bureau

44. Laurello Vineyards

45. Laurentia Vineyard & Winery

46. Le Petit Chevalier

47. Lehman’s

48. Lilyfest

49. Lost Trail Winery and Vineyard

50. Manchester Hill

51. Marion Area CVB

52. Medina County Convention & Visitors Bureau

53. Merry Family Winery

54. Miami County VCB

55. Mickey’s Ice Cream & Sandwich Shop

56. Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District

57. National Comedy Center and the Lucy Desi Museum

58. National Heisey Glass Museum

59. Nora’s Public House

60. Ohio Amish County | Holmes County Chamber & Tourism Bureau

61. Ohio Grape Industries

62. Ohio Wine Producers Association

63. OHLA - Greater Akron Lodging Council / StayInAkron.com

64. Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery

65. Orchard Culinary & Hospitality Group

66. Plum Run Winery

67. Rabbit Run Theater

68. Relish, Inc.

69. Reynoldsburg VB

70. Ross Chillicothe CVB

71. Sage Karma Kitchen

72. Shores & Islands Ohio

73. Sol

74. Standing Rock Farms

75. Steubenville Visitor Center

76. Stonegait Winery

77. Streetsboro Visitors & Convention Bureau

78. Sunny Slope Winery

79. Swiss Heritage Winery

80. Tecumseh/The Scioto Society, Inc

81. The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake

82. The Wild Goose

83. The Winery at Spring Hill

84. Travel Butler County, OH

85. Trumbull County Tourism Bureau

86. Valley View Hills Winery LLC

87. Visit Bowling Green (Ohio)

88. Visit Canton

89. Visit Cincy

90. Visit Dublin Ohio

91. Visit Findlay (Hancock County CVB)

92. Visit Greater Lima

93. Visit Grove City (Grove City Area CVB)

94. Wayne County Convention & Visitors Bureau

95. Wyandotte Winery

96. Yellow Springs Brewery

97. Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce

98. Youngstown Live | Mahoning County Convention & Visitors Bureau

99. Zanesville/Muskingum County CVB

Please enjoy Ohio Wines responsibly.

Ohio’s National Wine Areas

Due to Ohio’s distinct growing areas, the state is home to five nationally recognized American Viticultural Areas (AVAs), grapegrowing regions with specific geographic or climatic features that distinguish them and affect how grapes grow. The five AVAs are shown on the Ohio map, and wineries found within each AVA are denoted in the listings by the following abbreviations:

Winery listing information was correct as of January 2024. Please call the wineries directly for additional information, including hours. For more detailed maps and directions, visit findohiowines.com.

OHIO RIVER VALLEY AVA

LORAMIE CREEK AVA

ISLE ST. GEORGE AVA

GRAND RIVER VALLEY AVA

LAKE ERIE AVA

1. 58 West

58 W. Second St., Logan, OH 43138 (740) 216-5360, 58west.com

58 West provides the region with a friendly gathering place for visitors to enjoy the company of their friends and family, experiencing family-produced, quality beverages that will endure for generations to come.

2. Athens West End Ciderhouse

234 W. Washington St., Athens, OH 45701 (740) 590-5364, athenswestend.com/ciderhouse

A full-service bar featuring our Ohio-made ciders and spirits from our sister company, Athens West End Distillery. We offer popular local cheeses, nuts, crackers and cured meats for snacks. Customers can order food from local providers or bring their own to enjoy with our beverages.

3. Athens West End Ciderworks & Distillery

237 W. State St., Athens, OH 45701 (740) 416-6380, athenswestend.com

Proudly offering ciders, wines and spirits crafted from 100% Ohio-grown and wild harvested grains, fruits, herbs and roots.

4. Bethany Ridge Winery

6176 Bethany Ridge Rd., Guysville, OH 45735 (740) 517-1678, bethanyridgewinery.com

A family-owned business committed to producing quality wines for your enjoyment. Come see us.

5. Black Sheep Vineyard

1454 U.S. Rte. 250, Adena, OH 43901 (740) 546-3741, blacksheepvineyard.com

Located on a scenic, eastern Ohio farm. Tasting room and outside deck in an antique peg and beam barn. Vineyard to bottle choices.

6. Brewery 33 & Winery Hocking Hills 12684 College Prospect Dr., Logan, OH 43138 (740) 385-6033, brewery33.com

Brewery 33 offers beer, cider, seltzer and wine — all house-made. Our wines vary from red, white, fruity, dry and sweet.

7. Dutch Creek Winery

12157 St. Rte. 690, Athens, OH 45701 (740) 818-4699, dutchcreekwinery.com

Specializing in grape and fruit wines, ciders and meads made from bee to bottle right on the farm. Now serving beer and pizza.

8. French Ridge Vineyards

2586 Twp. Rd. 34, Killbuck, OH 44637 (330) 377-4962, frenchridgevineyards.com

Enjoy estate-grown wines in the hills of Holmes County. Spend the night in a cabin overlooking the vineyards.

9. Georgetown Vineyards

62920 Georgetown Rd., Cambridge, OH 43725 (740) 435-3222, georgetowntavern.com Winery and restaurant with scenic vineyard views.

Merry Family Winery

10. Headley Inn Winery & Vineyard 5345 W. Pike, Zanesville, OH 43701 (740) 487-1446, headleyinn.com

Experience historic charm in our unique tasting room while sipping a glass of handcrafted wine.

11. Heritage Vineyard

27561 Twp. Rd. 45, Warsaw, OH 43844 (740) 824-4314, heritagevineyardwinery.com

Family-owned and -operated winery and vineyard. Complete your visit with an overnight stay in our guest house.

12. Hocking Hills Winery

30402 Freeman Rd., Logan, OH 43138 (740) 385-7117, hockinghillswinery.com

Family-owned. We provide a friendly gathering place to enjoy the company of friends and family.

13. Killing Tree Winery 16688 Co. Rd. 4, Dresden, OH 43821 (740) 327-6100

Enjoy our deck or patio, or sit around the fire pits.

14. Le Petit Chevalier Farm Winery

26328 Locust Grove Rd., Creola, OH 45622 (740) 988-6150, lepetitchev.com

A real working farm with acres of grapes and 50 miles of elbow room. We are one of the largest growers in the region and just minutes away from Hocking Hills. Enjoy handcrafted wines and breathtaking views, or spend the night in our winery loft.

15. Marietta Wine Cellars

211 2nd St., Marietta, OH 45750 (740) 373-9463, mariettawinecellars.com

Now making more than 25 wines; carrying winemaking supplies and gifts. We also have a deli and a lounge/restaurant complete with a full bar and entertainment.

16. Merry Family Winery

2376 St. Rte. 850, Bidwell, OH 45614 (740) 245-9463, merryfamilywinery.com

Come wine in the countryside at Gallia County’s first winery and craft brewery. Sample wines in our charming tasting room. Relax on the spacious patio or stroll in the vineyard. Food Trucks Fri.–Sat.

17. Na zdravie Vineyard and Winery

13414 Marietta Rd., Kingston, OH 45644 (740) 655-3500, facebook.com/nazwinery

Conveniently located near Hocking Hills State Park, Chillicothe and Circleville. Offering weddings, events and woodfired pizza, as well as beer and cocktails. Outdoor fire pit and fireplace.

18. Pleasant Hill Vineyards 5015 Pleasant Hill Rd., Athens, OH 45701 (740) 502-3525, pleasanthillvineyardsllc.com

Located on a beautiful ridge outside Athens. Boutique winery inside an 1840s original log cabin. Decks and picnic area.

19. Rainbow Hills Winery, Brewery & Pizzeria 26349 Twp. Rd. 251, Newcomerstown, OH 43832 (740) 545-9305, rainbowhillswinery.com

We are moving in 2024. Please see website or Facebook for new address.

20. Raven’s Glenn Winery 56183 Co. Rd. 143, West Lafayette, OH 43845 (740) 545-1000, ravensglenn.com

Whether for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, Raven’s Glenn is your perfect destination for the celebration of good food, good wine and good friends.

21. Revolution Rockbridge Wine Co. 26557 Miller Rd., Rockbridge, OH 43149 (740) 819-2524, rxrwinery.com

Experience our unique craft winery with over 25 handcrafted artisan wines located in the scenic Hocking Hills.

22. Shade Winery 401 Gilkey Ridge Rd., Shade, OH 45776 (740) 696-1323, shadewinery.com

Enjoy estate-grown and other in-house produced wines. Restaurant now serving lunch and dinner. Beer available.

23. Stone Crest Vineyard 10310 O’Dell Rd., Frazeysburg, OH 43822 (740) 828-9463, stonecrestwinery.com

Relax in a country setting and enjoy our wonderful wines and view of our waterfall. Visit our website for food events.

24. Twisted Vine Family Vineyard 1375 Carter Rd., Patriot, OH 45658 (740) 256-1923, twistedvine.wine

Wine and nature unite, a magical experience; Ohio native wildflowers “pre-settlement” (circa 1750); fields buzzing with pollinators, ponds, forests, wildlife and trails.

25. Unicorn Wine Guild 1816 Washington Blvd., Belpre, OH 45714 (740) 423-1300, unicornwineguild.com

Urban winery with 50 wines, tea room, wine/beer supplies, events, gifts, classes, u-vin and gourmet teas/coffees. Ohiosourced foods/gifts. Friendly atmosphere.

26. Valley View Hills Winery 29176 Klump Rd., Sugar Grove, OH 43155 (740) 746-8704, valleyviewhillswinery.com

We are here to help you discover the perfect wine and create unforgettable memories at Valley View Hills Winery.

27. Vino di Piccin Winery & Tasting House 55155 National Rd., Lansing, OH 43934 (740) 738-0261, vinodipiccin.com

Family-owned winery making delicious wines for all palates from the best grapes. Serving superior quality charcuterie and cheeses.

28. Wellstone Winery 28945 Riley Rd., Freeport, OH 43973 (330) 432-3029, wellstonewinery.com

Charming tasting room, inviting fire patio and covered, stone-adorned terrace are all designed to promote warm, welcoming experiences.

29. White Eyes Creek Winery 9065 Clay Pike, Chandlersville, OH 43727 (740) 221-2546

Enjoy our vineyard and selection of wines. Located off Zane Grey Road in the rolling hills of east Central Ohio.

30. Wolftree 13526 Swett Hollow Rd., Millfield, OH 45761 (740) 448-3009, wolftreewinery.com

Producing mead, fruit mead, fruit wines, ciders, pyment and other unusual wines. You may bring food.

31. Yellow Butterfly Winery 11661 Blue Ridge Rd., Newcomerstown, OH 43832 (740) 492-1216, yellowbutterflywinery.com

The Yellow Butterfly is nestled in the foothills of Southeast Ohio. Join us for great wine, music and Saturday barbecue dinners.

32. YOLO Winery 16286 St. Rte. 93, Kimbolton, OH 43749 (740) 545-0766, yolowinery.com

Coshocton County country setting with lots of outdoor seating. Pet friendly; come wine with us.

1. 1875 Winery + Restaurant

109 St. Rte. 44, Hartville, OH 44632 (330) 935-2100, 1875ohiowinery.com

Adult-only winery boasting a full-service restaurant and bar with seven varieties of wine and slushies.

2. Baltic Mill Winery

111 E. Main St., Baltic, OH 43804 (330) 365-0524, balticmillwinery.com

Unique winery located in a 100-plus-year-old historic flour mill. Handcrafted wines in the heart of Amish country. Building tours.

3. Bent Ladder Cider and Wine 13550 Mt. Eaton Rd., Doylestown, OH 44230 (330) 485-1089, bentladder.com

Handcrafted hard ciders and wines from premium estategrown fruit served in a rustic-chic setting overlooking mother nature’s best scenery.

4. Blue Barn Winery

4407 Columbus Rd., Wooster, OH 44691 (330) 575-1028, bluebarnwinery.com

Located in a beautifully restored Civil War era barn, this winery hosts great live music all summer long.

5. Breitenbach Wine Cellar & Vineyards

5934 Old St. Rte. 39 N.W., Dover, OH 44622 (330) 343-3603, breitenbachwine.com

The best of Amish Country with 40 years of excellence. Enjoy an outdoor ampitheater, port aging cellar, wedding venue, guest houses and trails. Check our website for festivals and events.

6. Cana Valley Winery, LLC 5665 Waterloo Rd., Atwater, OH 44201 (330) 596-3017, canavalleywinery.com

Check us out on Facebook for any updates and specials.

7. Carso Rosso Winery

19583 Hunt Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136 (440) 879-1099, carsorossowinery.com

Private events available by emailing carsorossoprivateoccasions@gmail.com (up to 50 guests). Featuring cheese from Grandpa’s Cheese Barn.

8. Casella Winery & Distillery 1039 Roxford Church Rd. S.E., Dennison, OH 44621 (330) 440-7444, casellawinery.com

Beer, food, wine, music and park. Rent our 1918 one-room schoolhouse for events at roxfordpark.com.

9. Cherry Road Winery

1133 27th St. N.W., Massillon, OH 44647 (330) 265-5807, cherryroadwinery.com

Massillon’s west-side winery featuring wines reflective of Ohio’s grape regions and Massillon’s rich culture and past.

10. Crafted Artisan Meadery 1292 Waterloo Rd., Mogadore, OH 44260 (330) 628-4444, craftedmead.com

Located in a restored 1880s church, you will experience our internationally award-winning mead that is sold by retailers around the country. Enjoy local guest craft brews, honeyinspired cocktails and our full pizza kitchen with shareables and salads at our 100% family friendly historic space!

11. Das Weinhaus 3232 Erhart Rd., Litchfield, OH 44253 (330) 391-9400

Come visit our scenic country winery sitting by a lake and enjoy our large selection of wines.

12. Doughty Glen Winery

5025 St. Rte. 557, Millersburg, OH 44654 (330) 893-3600, guggisbergswissinn.com

Award-winning winery in Amish country. Live entertainment Fri.–Sat. evenings. On-premise lodging. Horseback riding by appointment.

13. Dragonfly Winery

215 Market St. W., Canal Fulton, OH 44614 (330) 854-4832, dragonflyontheriver.com

Located along the Tuscarawas River in historic Canal Fulton. Enjoy delicious food while sampling our wide variety of wines.

14. Feisty Brood Meadery

145 W. Aurora Rd., Ste. B, Northfield, OH 44067 (440) 590-6909, feistymead.com

A small family-run meadery that specializes in award-winning honey wines with tours and tastings by appointment.

15. Filia Cellars

3059 Greenwich Rd., Wadsworth, OH 44281 (330) 331-7522, filiacellars.com

Family-owned winery in a restored Victorian specializing in local Ohio/dry California wines. Dog-friendly outdoors and live music. Picnics are welcome.

PHOTO BY MEGAN LEIGH BARNARD

16. Gervasi Vineyard

1700 55th St. N.E., Canton, OH 44721 (330) 497-1000, gervasivineyard.com

Experience an upscale winery resort featuring overnight suites, spa and wine cave, award-winning wines and spirits, a coffeehouse and cocktail lounge, along with exceptional cuisine in three restaurants.

17. Grape & Granary

915 Home Ave., Akron, OH 44310 (330) 633-7223, akronwine.com

A very Italian winery and distillery. Many wines and spirits to sample and buy. Complimentary olive oil, spices and Italian bread. Come in as a customer and leave as famiglia.

18. Holy Moley Brewing Company

306 Grant St., Dennison, OH 44621 (330) 904-9371, holymoleybrewing.com

Visit historic downtown Dennison “Dreamsville” and enjoy wines from the comfort of our beautiful 19th century church.

19. It’s Your Winery

1484 Medina Rd., Ste. 113, Medina, OH 44256 (330) 784-9463, itsyourwinery.com

Enjoy the unique experience of creating your own wine at It’s Your Winery tasting room and retail sales.

20. JC Wine Cellars

8306 St. Rte. 43, East Springfield, OH 43925 (740) 543-4200

Family-operated winery featuring exceptional handcrafted wines, an award-winning restaurant with cozy fireplaces and an outdoor courtyard for summer dining.

21. Lake Milton Brewery Ltd. 17762 Mahoning Ave., Lake Milton, OH 44429 (330) 612-6196

Enjoy a red, white or fruit wine at the lake. Games inside and out including our regulation pickle ball court.

22. LaPorte Winery

10655 Williams Rd., Diamond, OH 44412 (330) 618-5477, Facebook - LaPorte Winery

A unique boutique winery with a nice selection of handcrafted wines.

23. Liebe Wein

530 E. State St., Salem, OH 44460 (330) 831-7081

A local favorite with a warm and cozy vibe. Come be our guest. Liebe Wein translation = Love Wine.

24. Lincoln Way Vineyards

9050 W. Old Lincoln Way, Wooster, OH 44691 (330) 804-9463, lincolnwayvineyards.com

“Find Your Wine Time”®. Award-winning wines from estate and Ohio-grown grapes. Live music and food truck every weekend.

25. Lost Trail Winery

5228 State St. N.E., Canton, OH 44721 (330) 754-9643, losttrailwinery.com

An adirondack-inspired, USMC veteran-owned boutique farm winery offering handcrafted, small batch wines with food trucks.

26. L’uva Bella Winery

6450 Center Rd., Lowellville, OH 44436 (330) 536-6450, luvabella.com

L’uva Bella Winery believes in crafting high quality, unique wines for the everyday consumer.

27. Maize Valley Winery

6193 Edison St. N.E., Hartville, OH 44632 (330) 877-8344, maizevalley.com

Visit Maize Valley Winery, craft brewery and gourmet market. Open six days a week.

28. Mastropietro Winery

14558 Ellsworth Rd., Berlin Center, OH 44401 (330) 547-2151, mastropietrowinery.com

Visit our website for information regarding winery and sports bar hours, music, food and events.

29. Michael Angelo’s Winery

5515 Broadview Rd., Richfield, OH 44286 (440) 552-2815, michaelangelosbakery.com

Overall “Best of Show” winner 2021 Ohio Wine Competition. Come see our amazing winery, offering a full menu of food, bakery and wine.

30. Nauti Vine Winery

3950 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44319 (330) 644-5444, nautivinewine.com

Nestled on the shores of the Portage Lakes, Nauti Vine offers the ultimate in wine tasting experience.

31. Rohr’s Wine Room LLC

28 Charles Ave. S.E., Massillon, OH 44646 (330) 620-9757

We are a little city winery located in downtown Massillon. Live music Friday and Saturday nights. Come check us out!

32. Sarah’s Vineyard

1204 W. Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223 (330) 929-8057, sarahsvineyardwinery.com

Situated in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the main tasting room is located in an 1840s hand-hewn post and beam barn. Enjoy wine tastings, several food options and wood-fired pizzas weekly after 4 p.m.

33. School House Winery

455 Schneiders Crossing Rd. N.W., Dover, OH 44622 (330) 602-9463, schoolhousewine.com/building6wine.com Boutique winery located in a renovated 1886 one-room schoolhouse. Home of “Building 6” wines.

34. Silver Moon Winery

4915 Old Rte. 39 N.W., Dover, OH 44662 (330) 602-6040, silvermoonwinery.com

Sample all of our wines daily. All wines now served on tap!

35. Silver Run Vineyard & Winery

376 Eastern Rd., Doylestown, OH 44230 (330) 671-1115, silverrunwinery.com

Sip award-winning, handcrafted wine and relax by the fireplace in our cozy tasting room or on our covered porch in a peaceful country setting.

36. Sunny Slope Winery

12245 St. Rte. 39, Big Prairie, OH 44611 (330) 378-4722, sunnyslopewinery.com

Mom-and-pop winery nestled between Berlin and Mohican in the heart of Amish country. Come enjoy good times and bright wines.

37. Swiss Heritage Winery

6011 Old Rte. 39 N.W., Dover, OH 44622 (330) 343-4108, broadruncheese.com

Browse through our gift shop, deli and boutique, then come up to Hans’ Place and sample our wines and have lunch or dinner on our patio or wooded decks.

38. Tipsy Farmer Winery

32849 Speidel Rd., Hanoverton, OH 44423 (330) 222-9737, facebook.com/paynter.us

We are a small, country winery that specializes in sweet wines.

39. Troutman Vineyards and Winery

4243 Columbus Rd., Wooster, OH 44691 (330) 263-4345, troutmanvineyards.com

Charming winery featuring handcrafted, premium wines grown in our backyard. Gift shop and live music.

40. Ugly Bunny Winery

16104 St. Rte. 39, Loudonville, OH 44842 (419) 994-0587, uglybunnywinery.com

Nestled in the outskirts of Holmes County, Ugly Bunny Winery is a beautiful destination for anyone.

41. The Vineyards at Pine Lake 14101 Market St., Columbiana, OH 44408 (234) 759-3980, vineyardsatpinelake.com

Our expansive patio has a beautiful view of Pine Lake. Full-service restaurant featuring wine tastings and on-site brewery.

42. West Main St. Winery & Brewery

234 W. Main St., Ravenna, OH 44266 (330) 839-8042, wmswinery.com

Where yesteryear meets today. Enjoy our wines, beers and ciders — all made in the basement of our 150-year-old building — inside our tasting room or on our patio, weather permitting.

43. Weymouth Farms & Orchard, Winery 2398 Weymouth Rd., Hinckley, OH 44233 (330) 460-4565, weymouthfarms.com Farm winery, 100% grown, double-gold and gold medal award-winning wines.

44. Wine Makers Headquarters

3622 Belmont Ave., Ste. 6, Youngstown, OH 44505 (330) 501-8774, winemakersheadquarters.com

Mahoning Valley’s premier supplier of premium wine and beer making kits, winemaking on-premises, wine sales and much more.

45. The Winery at Wolf Creek

2637 S. Cleveland-Massillon Rd., Barberton, OH 44203 (330) 666-9285, wineryatwolfcreek.com

The Winery at Wolf Creek is one of Ohio’s oldest wineries that continues to please patrons all over the country with its breathtaking views and friendly farm animals. Our private rental space, The Great Room, offers a full bar, prep kitchen, fireplace and private outside deck overlooking the property. The Winery at Wolf Creek is perfect for family, friends and romance.

46. Winetagous

540 Belden Pkwy., Sugarcreek, OH 44681 (330) 852-6016

A small winery inspired by faith and the friendship of four friends whose hobby is making wine together.

47. Woodland Cellars

212 N. Main St., Hubbard, OH 44425 (330) 536-9988, woodlandcellars.com

Using the freshest fruits and juices, along with locally sourced honey, each bottle of our wine and mead is handcrafted and produced to meet only the highest expectations. We also produce cider and beer.

Bent Ladder Cider & Wine

PHOTO BY MATT SHIFFLER

Blue Barn Winery

PHOTO BY LAURA WATILO BLAKE

1. 1285 Winery

1285 W. Hanley Rd., Mansfield, OH 44904 (419) 884-1797, 1285winery.com

Full menu including wood-fired pizzas and full wine list. Large space for events. Wine available daily. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

2. Bear Vine Winery & Brewery

15617 St. Rte. 273, Ridgeway, OH 43345 (937) 363-2662, Facebook – Bear Vine Winery LLC

We don’t serve food or snacks, but you can bring your own. Indoor and outdoor seating.

3. Blend of Seven Winery

1400 Stratford Rd., Delaware, OH 43015 (740) 417-4286, blendofsevenwinery.com

Voted Delaware’s “Best Winery” since 2018. We strive everyday to offer a warm, inviting atmosphere and great tasting and unique wines. Wine, beer, ciders, bourbon and scotch. Check website for hours, wine list, food menu and events.

4. Bokes Creek Winery

26211 St. Rte. 31, Raymond, OH 43067 (937) 358-2401, bokescreekwinery.com

Award-winning wines made from Ohio estate grapes and fruits. First Friday live music. Bring your food, no beer. Closed each January.

5. Brothers Drake Meadery

26 E. 5th Ave., Columbus, OH 43201 (614) 388-8765, brothersdrake.com

We are an Ohio-based meadery that focuses on using approachable ingredients in its simplest form. Produced as local as we can find and handmade with love.

6. Buckeye Lake Winery

13750 Rosewood Rd. N.E., Thornville, OH 43076 (740) 246-5665, buckeyelakewinery.com

Buckeye Lake Winery is committed to producing premium wine by bringing the Napa Valley experience home.

Zen Bee Meadery

7. Buckeye Winery

25 N. 3rd St., Newark, OH 43055 (740) 788-9463, buckeyewinery.com

Select from over 50 wines with tastings daily. Enjoy our wines by the glass, bottle or make your own custom batch of wine with personalized labels. Homemade pizzas, paninis and other menu items. Visit website for events and more.

8. Bunker’s Mill Winery

102 E. Main St., Cardington, OH 43338 (419) 560-9854, bunkersmillwinery.com

An urban winery set in the quaint country village of Cardington. Enjoy locally crafted wines made from fresh grapes, juices and juice concentrates from California and Ohio.

9. Clearcreek Country Winery

9214 Westfall Rd. S.W., Amanda, OH 43102 (740) 969-1308, clearcreek.wine

Beautiful country setting. Food trucks some Saturdays. Bring your own food. Event rental. Grape and fruit wines.

10. Cote Winery

5102 U.S. Hwy. 42, Mt. Gilead, OH 43338 (419) 210-3639, cotewinery.com

Cote’s [côté] namesake pays homage to the Italian roots of our wine juice and translates to Whetstone, the orginal name of Mount Gilead. Enjoy nearly 10 acres of land and an on-site art gallery.

11. Cypress Hill Winery

51 E. Fourth St., Mansfield, OH 44902 (419) 513-5151

Urban winery with full-service restaurant featuring wine made on-site and aged approximately 30 ft. underground in historic caverns.

12. Dalton Union Winery & Brewery

21100 Shirk Rd., Marysville, OH 43040 (937) 645-5889, daltonunion.com

Enjoy a quaint, country atmosphere and a selection of wines, beer, cider and mead for every palate. All items are handcrafted on-premises and are available for tasting prior to purchase. Just a short drive from Columbus, and we have live music and various food trucks every weekend!

13. Dragonfly Vineyard and Wine Cellar

710 W. Herr Rd., Urbana, OH 43078 (937) 653-4377

Our countryside wine cellar is located in the Mad River Valley, Champaign County. Enjoy our estate wines with a scrumptious sandwich while seated on the patio overlooking the 4-acre vineyard or in front of the warm fireplace.

14. Folck Winery

6843 N. Urbana-Lisbon Rd. (St. Rte. 54), Mechanicsburg, OH 43044 (937) 869-2240, folckfamilyfarm.net

Dry and sweet estate wines made from handpicked berries on this historical Buck Creek Valley family farm with an expansive patio. Valley view for all occasions.

15. Good Vibes Winery

2 S. State St., Westerville, OH 43081 (614) 392-2202, goodvibeswinery.com

This urban winery offers a large selection of dry and sweet wines and edible delights to pair with them.

16. KnoxView Farm Winery LLC 7524 Phillips Rd., Fredericktown, OH 43019 (740) 694-4019

Ohio farm winery featuring estate-grown grapes and fruit. Outside food welcome. Food trucks also visit. Check Facebook for schedule.

17. Manchester Hill Winery & Vineyard 13160 Tarlton Rd., Circleville, OH 43113 (845) 893-8724, manchesterhill.com

Handcrafting national and international award-winning wines and hard ciders from local fruit. Family-owned and -operated since 2011.

18. Mirabelle Farm & Vineyard

800 Winchester Southern Rd., Ashville, OH 43103 (614) 908-0202, mirabellewines.com

We feature a friendly and relaxing gathering space to enjoy German style wines.

19. National Road Winery LLC 13047 National Rd., Thornville, OH 43076 (740) 973-8171

A quiet, relaxing winery in a country setting located right on the historic National Rd.

20. Our Kitchen Window Winery + Home Goods

223 N. Main St., Urbana, OH 43078 (937) 653-7627

He makes wine. She makes soap. They have a shop.

21. Plum Run Winery and Brewery 3946 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123 (614) 991-0338, plumrunwinery.com

Conveniently located in downtown Grove City, just minutes from Columbus. Check website for our handcrafted wines, hours and special events.

22. Ravenhurst Champagne Cellars 34477 Shertzer Rd., Mt. Victory, OH 43340 (937) 354-5151

Award-winning winemakers dedicated to traditional méthode champenoise champagne and handcrafted dry wines made from estate-grown Vinifera grapes.

23. Retreat 21 11433 Industrial Pkwy., Marysville, OH 43040 (614) 321-1713, retreat21.com

From intimate dinner gatherings to corporate retreats, as well as inclusive weekend packages, Retreat 21 is a place to adventure, unwine and celebrate thoughtfully.

24. Rhetoric Brewing Co.

25420 Claibourne Rd., Richwood, OH 43344 (614) 400-7588, rhetoricbrewingco.com

A winery-brewery located in rural Union County that specializes in handcrafted small-batch wine, mead, cider and beer.

25. Rockside Winery & Vineyards

2363 Lancaster-Newark Rd. N.E. (St. Rte. 37), Lancaster, OH 43130 (740) 687-4414, rocksidewinery.com

First winery in Lancaster, est. 2011. Enjoy estate-grown wine, brick oven pizzas, gourmet wine cakes, local honey and lavender, local craft brews, local bourbon, live music, happy hours, vineyard tours and wine club. Voted “Best of CBUS.”

26. Shamrock Vineyard

111 Co. Rd. 25 (Rengert Rd.), Waldo, OH 43356 (740) 726-2883, shamrockvineyard.com

Small vineyard winery with a 40-year history of delicious wines and welcoming hospitality. Home of the original Buckeye Red.

27. Slate Run Vineyard

1900 Winchester-Southern Rd., Canal Winchester, OH 43110 (614) 834-8577, slaterunwine.com

Winery is set amidst 4 acres of vineyard. Craft traditional-style wines from our vineyard and select Ohio orchards and vineyards.

28. Three Oaks Vineyard 1591 Crosley Rd., Granville, OH 43023 (740) 535-6257, threeoaksvineyard.com

A beautiful vineyard, small orchard and good wines crafted with care. Enjoy a relaxing visit with wine and friends.

29. Vineyard at Porter Central 8290 Porter Central Rd., Sunbury, OH 43074 (419) 571-6618, woolandvine.com

Providing you with an agritourism experience featuring locally made wines and hard ciders in a relaxed rural setting.

30. White Barn Vineyard

6480 Woolard Rd. N.E., Pleasantville, OH 43148 (740) 243-8434, whitebarnvineyard.wixsite.com/ whitebarnvineyard

Picturesque farm winery and vineyard with an original 1800s barn. Our small batches are grown, produced and sold on-site only.

31. The Winemaker’s Shop

3517 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214 (614) 263-1744, winemakersshop.com

Promoting winemaking with high quality juices from all over the world. Also, winemaking on-premise. Come taste/make wine here.

32. Wishmaker House B&B, Winery and Restaurant

116 Main St., Bellville, OH 44813 (419) 886-9463, wishmakerhouse.com

We have it all — B&B, restaurant and winery. Something for everyone in a beautiful small-town setting.

33. Wyandotte Winery

4640 Wyandotte Dr., Columbus, OH 43230 (614) 476-3624, wyandottewinery.com

First winery in Central Ohio, est. 1977, minutes from Easton Town Center. Award-winning wines for every palate. Brick oven pizzas, light bites, wine cakes, live music and wine club. Voted “Best of CBUS.”

34. Zen Bee Meadery

480 E. Wilson Bridge Rd., Ste. F, Worthington, OH 43085 (614) 526-4626, zenbeemeadery.com

Drink the experience of now. Come enjoy our honey wine.

Cote Winery

PHOTO BY ELATED LIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO PROVIDED BY ZEN BEE MEADERY

lake erie shores islands & vino

1. Chateau Winery & Vineyard

525 St. Rte. 635, Helena, OH 43435 (419) 638-5411, 419wine.com

Experience our French chateau featuring a wide selection of wines, food and weekend entertainment. Walk the vineyards, sit by the koi pond or relax by the fireplace.

2. Crooked Tree Vineyard

715 E. Lakeshore Dr., Kelleys Island, OH 43438 (419) 746-2200, crookedtreevineyard.com

Small family-owned and -operated winery. Come enjoy the 3 acres of vineyards and wines produced on-site. LE

3. D&D Smith Winery

401 W. Main St., Norwalk, OH 44857 (419) 577-0242, ddsmithwinery.com

Visit this 1870 house-turned-winery. Taste 45-plus wines made on-site and enjoy brick oven pizza, music and much more. LE

4. Firelands Winery 917 Bardshar Rd., Sandusky, OH 44870 (419) 625-5474, firelandswinery.com

Enjoy tastings, wines by the glass, our restaurant and outdoor patio. LE

5. Gar-Nay’s Winery, LLC

1846 Wells Rd., Collins, OH 44826 (419) 706-9020, garnayswinery.com

Small, inviting family-run winery specializing in unique and fruit/berry wines. Walk in a visitor, leave feeling like family. LE

6. Gideon Owen Wine Company

3845 E. Wine Cellar Rd., Port Clinton, OH 43452 (419) 797-4445, gideonowenwine.com

Historic winery and restaurant with indoor and outdoor seating, wine tastings and a full menu. Offering weddings, events and tours. LE

7. Heron Creek Wine/ Brady Vineyards of Ohio 52185 W. Griggs Rd., Wellington, OH 44090 (440) 506-7022, heroncreekwine.com

Family-owned 14-acre vineyard producing wines from our vines. Located in the Lake Erie region of North Central Ohio.

8. Heineman Winery

978 Catawba Ave., Put-In-Bay, OH 43456 (419) 285-2811, heinemanswinery.com

Take a ferry boat to this island winery serving up to 25 different wines and grape juice. Tour the winery and Crystal Cave — one of the largest geodes in the world. LE

9. Jilbert Winery and Brewery 1496 Columbia Rd., Valley City, OH 44280 (216) 618-5749, ohiohoneywine.com

Established in 1999, we are a family-owned and -operated boutique winery specializing in the production of Ohio grape and honey-based wines.

10. The Kelley’s Island Wine Co. 418 Woodford Rd., Kelleys Island, OH 43438 (419) 746-2678, kelleysislandwineco.com

Run by three generations of family on 3 acres with winery, restaurant, gift shop, barnyard animals and cantina. LE

11. Klingshirn Winery

REGION REGION

33050 Webber Rd., Avon Lake, OH 44012 (440) 933-6666, klingshirnwine.com

Klingshirn is a third-generation family farm in existence since 1935. A wide selection of wines from Viniferas to Pink Catawba assures a taste for everyone. LE

12. La Famiglia Winery

26095 Nichols Rd. BSMT, Columbia Station, OH 44028 (440) 236-8700, lafamiglia.wine

Introducing The Cellar @ La Famiglia Winery: Your cozy, familyowned escape. Experience a speakeasy feel in comfort.

13. Matus Winery

15674 Gore Orphanage Rd., Wakeman, OH 44889 (440) 774-9463, matuswinery.com

More than 18 wines produced on-site. Beer, wine slushies and bands every weekend year-round. Voted best in county and region last two years. LE

14. Monarch Winery

604 Division St., Kelleys Island, OH 43438 (419) 746-2899, monarchki.com

Monarch Winery is a working winery that specializes in fruit wines produced on-site. We also offer several wine slushies. LE

15. Paper Moon Vineyards

2008 State Rd., Vermilion, OH 44089 (440) 967-2500, papermoonvineyards.com

Located in the historic harbor town of Vermilion, Paper Moon Vineyards is tucked away in the woods and provides an environment where guests can “escape from the same.” Newly-expanded outdoor seating with fire pit. Harvest Host participating location. LE

16. Quarry Hill Winery

8403 Mason Rd. #2, Berlin Heights, OH 44814 (419) 588-3179, quarryhillwinery.com

Estate-grown grapes and fruit wine from the pinnacle of Berlin Heights. LE

17. Rocky Point Winery

111 W. Main St., Marblehead, OH 43440 rockypointwinery.com

Rocky Point is located steps away from Lake Erie and the Marblehead Lighthouse. We are open year-round with an inn too! LE

18. Vermilion Valley Vineyards 11005 Gore Orphanage Rd., Wakeman, OH 44889 (440) 965-5202, vermilion-valleyvineyards.com World-class, sustainably-farmed wines that pay homage to our Vermilion River watershed. Visit our website for weekly events. LE

19. Vino Veritas Cellars Winery 4103 Memphis Ave., Cleveland, OH 44109 (216) 650-9877, vinoveritascellarswinery.com

20. White Stag Winery 2381 Co. Rd. 38, Gibsonburg, OH 43431 (419) 559-7153, whitestagwine.com

Small winery producing unique wines inspired by brave adventurers of the past. For those seeking something new and looking to blaze their own trail.

21. The Winerie 6413 Hayes Ave., Sandusky, OH 44870 (419) 502-1290, thewinerie.com

1. American Winery/American Brewery

15119 U.S. Rte. 20A, Wauseon, OH 43567 (419) 212-1014, americanwineryohio.com

American Winery/American Brewery, where there is a “unique experience in every glass.” Small-batch wines and beer made for everyone from the connoisseur to the first taster. Enjoy our vineyard, deck or inside atmosphere.

2. Five Vines Winery LLC

12179 Buckland-Holden Rd., Wapakoneta, OH 45895 (419) 657-2675, fivevineswinerywapak.com

Picturesque winery and vineyard with 100-year-old barn. Estate-grown grape wines, seasonal and fruit wines available.

3. Gillig Winery

1720 Northridge Rd., Findlay, OH 45840 (419) 408-3230, gilligwinery.com

Wines produced and bottled on-site. Bistro food menu available. Conveniently located on Northridge Road a half-mile west of I-75.

4. GR8 Vines Winery

325 E. Spring St., St. Marys, OH 45885 (419) 778-7291, gr8vineswinery.com

A veteran-owned family winery.

5. Knotty Vines Farm & Winery

2920 Co. Rd. 19, Wauseon, OH 43567 (419) 446-9463, knottyvineswinery.com

Enjoy our unique wines in our guest areas overlooking the vineyard. Call ahead for groups larger than 10.

6. Leisure Time Winery

16982 Co. Rd. M2, Napoleon, OH 43545 (419) 758-3442, leisuretimewinery.com

Enjoy relaxing surroundings, good wine, beer and food. Live music every Saturday night. Come visit us soon.

7. The Lumberyard Winery & Supply

118 W. Front St., Napoleon, OH 43545 (419) 599-9463, thelumberyardwinery.com

Offering a variety of wines and appetizers in a historic lumberyard with a large covered patio.

8. Majestic Oak Winery

13554 Mohler Rd., Grand Rapids, OH 43522 (419) 875-6474, majesticoakwinery.com

Come see our majestic oak, sit among the vines and enjoy a glass. Located in Providence Twp. near Neapolis.

9. Michindoh Winery

3850 Co. Rd. 7, Edgerton, OH 43517 (419) 799-2097, michindohwinery.com

A tribute to our aquifer, Michindoh Winery has a unique country setting located in the far northwest corner of Ohio, minutes from Michigan and Indiana.

10. Myla Marcus Winery

133 S. Main St., Bowling Green, OH 43402 (419) 352-9463, mylamarcus.com

Located in vibrant downtown Bowling Green, our brand new family-owned and -operated winery produces and bottles our wine and juice on-site. Come visit our gorgeous tasting room for sampling.

11. Stoney Ridge Winery 7144 Co. Rd. 16, Bryan, OH 43506 (419) 636-3500, stoneyridgewinery.com

Beautiful setting with a 13-acre vineyard. Offering estate wines, hard cider, beer and cocktails. Weekend pizza menu and live music. Open all year.

12. Sycamore Lake Wine Co. 9660 Mayberry Rd., Columbus Grove, OH 45830 (419) 233-1581, sycamorelakewine.com

Enjoy a glass of wine in our winery, on our patio or while strolling through our 3-acre vineyard surrounded by a 17-acre lake with a covered bridge.

13. Urban Pine Winery & Eatery 3415 Briarfield Blvd., Maumee, OH 43537 (567) 703-1281, urbanpinewinery.com

Producing wines from all over the world on-site! Sample a flight, order by the glass or bottle and enjoy the relaxing vibe. Offering ciders, local beers on draft, limited liquors, private parties and a lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch menu.

14. Vine2Wine – Custom Winery of Toledo 7105 W. Central Ave., Toledo, OH 43617 (419) 720-3322

Visit our custom winery to discover different wines and create something new!

15. Vineyard at Evergreen Farm 4249 Siegrist-Jutte Rd., Coldwater, OH 45828 (419) 678-8027, evergreenwinery.com

Small batch, unique varieties. Please check our Facebook or website for details. Members of Harvest Host. Newly renovated tasting room and patio.

Gillig Winery

PHOTO BY LISA CORY PHOTOGRAPHY

Gideon Owen Wine Company

PHOTO BY KEVIN KOPANSKI

Located in a beautiful and tranquil country setting, Brandeberry Winery has a large variety of handcrafted wines ranging from sweet to dry. Enjoy the pet-friendly outdoor patio or Tuscaninspired tasting room. We offer wine tastings, wine slushies, appetizers, food trucks and live music on weekends throughout the year. 5118 W. Jackson Rd., Enon, OH 937-767-9103, brandeberrywinery.com

Located just outside the Hocking Hills, this farm winery invites guests to sample wine flights and charcuteries surrounded by rolling hills, farmland and acres of vineyards. Catch a glimpse of farm life with border collies and sheep, enjoy picnicking and lodging accommodations and, as a fun bonus, wine slushie weekends.

26328 Locust Grove Rd., Creola, OH 740-988-6150, lepetitchev.com

Enjoy a true taste of Holmes County. Visit our winery overlooking the vineyards in the scenic hills. Come for a taste and stay in our cozy cabins. 2586 Township Rd. 34, Killbuck, OH 330-377-4962, frenchridgevineyards.com

Wine and dine at this family-owned-and-operated winery. Enjoy handcrafted fine wines made with juices from the Napa Valley in a peaceful, breathtaking setting. Enjoy wine tastings, live music, large patio spaces and a pavilion. Plus, take advantage of the opportunity to rent for private events, weddings and overnight stays. 29176 Klump Rd., Sugar Grove, OH 740-746-8704, valleyviewhillswinery.com

Visit Preble County’s first winery, located in a 19thcentury one-room brick schoolhouse. Experience the beautiful tasting room featuring internationally award-winning wines made on-site. With over 30 carefully crafted wines available, there’s sure to be a bottle to satisfy every palate. Unwind on the large outdoor patio and enjoy live music. 152 St. Rte. 726, Eaton, OH 937-472-9463, oshwinery.com

Established in 2011, Manchester Hill is a familyowned-and-operated winery and vineyard that handcrafts nationally and internationally award-winning wines and hard ciders made from local fruit. All products are fermented, created, bottled, corked and labeled on-site along with the estate vineyard grapes. Take in the atmosphere and enjoy. 13160 Tarlton Rd., Circleville, OH 845-893-8724, manchesterhill.com

Come sip, sit and relax at Gallia County’s first winery and brewery. Take in the picturesque views of the countryside during a stroll through the vineyard. Sample handcrafted wines and beers and try our homemade root beer soda. With so many great varieties to choose from you are sure to find something to love! 2376 St. Rte. 850, Bidwell, OH 740-245-9463, merryfamilywinery.com

At Lost Tail Winery and Vineyard, we believe life is better lived outdoors and wine enjoyed in handcrafted, small batches. We are open year-round and offer live music, The Hungry Hiker food trailer (new in 2024), book club, workshops, BrewGroup meetings, trivia games, makers markets/ festivals and more. 5228 State St. NE, Canton, OH 330-754-9643, losttrailwinery.com

Laurentia Vineyard and Winery

Laurentia Vineyard and Winery is located within the Grand River Valley. Situated upon 48 acres of estate vineyards, Laurentia’s awardwinning wines, such as the Double Gold Stoltz Block Cabernet, may be perfectly paired with a variety of boards, shared plates and artisan flatbreads.

4599 S. Madison Rd., Madison, OH 440-296-9175, laurentiawinery.com

The Winery at Spring Hill

We are an upscale, country winery with a friendly, relaxing atmosphere. We offer dry Vinifera wines, sweet Labrusca and fruit wines, hard ciders, craft beers and cocktails. Enjoy food from our kitchen and patio, and new in 2024 bring your dogs to experience our new “Barking Lot” dog park.

6062 S. Ridge Rd. W., Geneva, OH 440-466-0626, thewineryatspringhill.com

Dutch Creek Winery

Dutch Creek Winery crafts the best artisanal, smallbatch fruit and honey wines, ciders and family-friendly, non-alcoholic honey sodas. Enjoy tastings, local beers, charcuterie boards and great pizza either inside on our covered patio and pavilion or outside in our picnic grove. Please check our website for current hours and specials.

12157 St. Rte. 690, Athens, OH 740-818-4699, dutchcreekwinery.com

Three Rivers Wine Trail

Wyandotte Winery

Enjoy the wide-open spaces of the Appalachian foothills and explore the eclectic mix of seven unique wineries and a craft brewery, all within a short drive of one another in beautiful Coshocton County.

It’s the perfect romantic getaway or girls’ weekend adventure. Free Passport Program and hotel packages are available.

432 N. Whitewoman St., Coshocton, OH 740-622-4877, threeriverswinetrailohio.com

Since 1977, Wyandotte Winery, central Ohio’s pioneer, beckons with handcrafted wines in a charming neighborhood. Live music sets the stage every Friday and Saturday, enhancing the experience of savoring a diverse selection. From luscious reds to crisp whites, sweet to dry, traditional grape to fruity blends, Wyandotte invites all to drink what you like!

4640 Wyandotte Dr., Columbus, OH 614-476-3624, wyandottewinery.com

Laurello Vineyards is a family-owned winery providing hand-crafted, award-winning wines and specially prepared foods as well as beer on tap. Laurello’s offers premium, vinifera wines in addition to unique blends and delicious ice wines. We invite you to stop by to experience our boutique winery.

4573 St. Rte. 307 E., Geneva, OH 440-415-0661, laurellovineyards.com

This locally owned boutique winery in the heart of downtown Grove City features 22 varieties of house wines and ciders, 40 taps of artfully crafted beers, as well as a full, from-scratch kitchen and large pet-friendly patio. The beautiful venue also makes a great space for meetings and private events .

3946 Broadway, Grove City, OH 614-991-0338, plumrunwinery.com

Stonegait Winery is a familyowned winery, featuring estate and American wines all crafted on-site. We offer a full menu showcasing our wood fired pizzas, appetizers, sandwiches and more. Along with our large wine selection, we have beers on tap, bourbons and specialty drinks. We invite you in to enjoy our beautiful patio and relaxing atmosphere. 4275 Bates Rd., Madison, OH 440-307-9571, stonegaitwinery.com

Plum Run Winery

Stonegait Winery

Laurello Vineyards

ohio river valley vines wines &

1. A.R. Winery

3564 Gordon Landis Rd., Arcanum, OH 45304 (937) 417-0565, arwinery.com

Come taste unique, award-winning wines on the farm and wood-fired, brick-oven pizzas. Check website for events.

2. Bent Tree Winery

7405 Industrial Row Rd., Mason, OH 45040 (513) 204-6060, benttreewinery.com

Handcrafted, small-batch wines. Tastings 7–9 p.m. on the third Saturday of each month. Call for reservations. ORV

3. Bock Family Brewing

8150 Washington Village Dr., Dayton, OH 45458 (937) 813-2000, bockfamilybrewing.com

Bock Family Brewing makes handcrafted mead and cider, including traditional and a variety of flavors.

4. Brandeberry Winery

5118 W. Jackson Rd., Enon, OH 45323 (937) 767-9103, brandeberrywinery.com

Boutique winery that produces a wine for every palate. Offering wine tastings, appetizers, slushies and live music every weekend. Located between Springfield and Dayton. Check website for events and hours.

5. Burnet Ridge

6721 Richard Ave., North College Hill, OH 45224 (513) 522-4203, burnetridge.com

Family-owned winery specializing in high-quality, dry table wines with grapes from northern California and Ohio. ORV

6. Caesar Creek Vineyards LLC

962 Long Rd., Xenia, OH 45385 (937) 952-9388, caesar-creek.com

Excellent estate wines and cider produced near the headwaters of historic Caesar Creek on a beautiful site with gorgeous vistas near Columbus, Dayton and Cincinnati. Occasional music (ASCAP).

7. Chateau Tüken

15725 Eaton Pike, West Alexandria, OH 45381 (937) 687-3848, Facebook - Tuken’s Orchard & Farm Market

Chateau Tüken specializes in pure fruit wines with no added sugar or flavorings. The fruit is sourced from our 20-acre orchard and fermented on-premise following our eastern European family tradition.

8. Fulton Grove Winery

3834 Fulton Grove Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45245 (513) 444-6020, thefultongrovewinery.com

Usually open Saturdays from 1–4 p.m. and by appointment for small events. Check Facebook and website for details. ORV

9. Hanover Winery

2165 Morman Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013 (513) 863-3119, hanoverwinery.com

Come visit us in Southwest Ohio, just far enough to feel like you’ve gone somewhere! Wine, brews, bourbon and woodfired pizza. Thursdays are pet friendly.

10. Harmony Hill Vineyards & Estate Winery

2534 Swings Corner Point Isabel Rd., Bethel, OH 45106 (513) 734-3548, hhwines.com

Boutique winery featuring award-winning wines, underground barrel cave, “Hill Center Stage” entertainment and bring-your-own picnic. ORV

11. Indian Spring Winery

10862 Fite Hauck Rd., Sardinia, OH 45171 (937) 446-9463, indianspringwinery.com

Family-owned and -operated winery and vineyard located in rural Brown County featuring live music on the weekends. Family and pet friendly. ORV

12. JWs Wine Cellar 724 E. Main St., Trotwood, OH 45426 (937) 529-4739, jwswinecellar.com

Urban winery located in the heart of Trotwood.

13. Living Wright Wines

741 Greenlee Rd., Seaman, OH 45679 (937) 213-0633, livingwrightwines.godaddysites.com

Family friendly atmosphere where when you stop by, you will see why our motto is, “We’re not fancy, we’re fun!”

14. Meranda-Nixon Winery

6517 Laycock Rd., Ripley, OH 45167 (248) 891-0935, meranda-nixonwinery.com

Savor estate-grown wines in a scenic tasting room with vineyard views. Enjoy monthly steak and salmon dinner (advance reservation recommended). Please call first when bringing your furry friend. ORV

15. Old Mason Winery & Vineyard

4199 S. Iddings Rd., West Milton, OH 45383 (937) 698-1122, oldmason.com

Enjoy Old Mason’s quality wines in our cozy tasting room or while relaxing on our patio with a vineyard view.

16. Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery

152 St. Rte. 726, Eaton, OH 45320 (937) 472-9463, oshwinery.com

Come visit Preble County’s first winery located in an original, one-room, brick schoolhouse. Experience the beautiful tasting room featuring international award-winning wines made on-site.

17. Seven Mile Winery, LLC

3526 Somerville Jacksonburg Rd., Middletown, OH 45042 (513) 212-1092, sevenmilewinery.com

Located in the heart of Butler County, the Mortenson Family is proud to have built a community around the sharing of wine.

18. The Skeleton Root

38 W. McMicken Ave., Over-the-Rhine, OH 45202 (513) 918-3015, skeletonroot.com

Working winery located in downtown Cincinnati specializing in dry, minimal intervention wines. ORV

19. Twenty One Barrels

9717 Horatio-Harris Creek Rd., Bradford, OH 45308 (937) 467-4498, 21barrels.com

Relax in our peaceful country setting. Specializing in smallbatch hard ciders and wine sure to please any palate.

20. Valley Vineyards

2276 E. U.S. Rtes. 22 and 3, Morrow, OH 45152 (513) 899-2485, valleyvineyards.com ORV

21. Vinoklet Winery

11069 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45252 (513) 385-9309, vinokletwines.com

Atop picturesque rolling hills, providing a panoramic view of surrounding vineyards and lakes, Vinoklet has a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere. ORV

22. The Winery at Versailles 6572 St. Rte. 47, Versailles, OH 45380 (937) 526-3232, wineryatversailles.com

Family-owned winery in a rural country setting established in 2002. Indoor and outdoor seating with light appetizers and gourmet pizzas. Open year round, six days a week.

23. Woodstone Creek Winery & Distillery

4712 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45217 (513) 569-0300, woodstonecreek.com

Grape varietal and fruit wines dry to sweet. Mead, port and craft distillates. Ohio’s first microdistillery. Art gallery. Groups (10–20) by appointment. ORV

1. Baci Winery

7800 Warner Rd., Madison, OH 44057 (440) 307-2224, baciwinery.com

Italian-inspired seasonal menu to pair with our wines. Craft cocktails and beer available. Live music and special events.

2. Bari Beauty & Health Plus Grapes

637 E. 185th St., Euclid, OH 44119 (216) 242-9087, baribh.com

We offer Liddell’s wine in Concord, Moscato, Peach, Strawberry and Merlot. LE

3. Benny Vino Urban Winery

834 S. County Line Rd., Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 361-3049, bennyvinourbanwinery.com

Stop in to our new location and visit the only tasting room located directly on the Grand River. GRV, LE

4. The Blind Squirrel Winery

7918 Pettibone Rd., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023 (216) 210-4946, theblindsquirrelwinery.com

Come visit our casual, rustic setting with good friends and fine wines, Thurs.–Sat. 4–9 p.m.

5. Buccia Vineyard

518 Gore Rd., Conneaut, OH 44030 (440) 593-5976, bucciavineyard.com

Buccia offers fine wines, a laid-back tasting room, live music, casually elegant lodging with vineyard views, weddings and special events. LE

6. Cask 307

7259 Warner Rd., Madison, OH 44057 (440) 307-9586, cask307.com

Newer boutique winery features storytelling design with a timber frame building and covered deck. Deli known for impressive charcuterie and gourmet flatbreads. Craft beer and featured cocktails. GRV, LE

7. CLE Urban Winery

2180B Lee Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 (216) 417-8313

A working winery and tasting room in the craft brewery style producing Cleveland-branded wines from West Coast grapes. LE

8. Country Porch Winery

2282 Wilson Sharpsville Rd. (St. Rte. 305), Cortland, OH 44410 (330) 638-0000, countryporchwinery.com

Friends gather here in this comfortable country atmosphere with indoor/outdoor seating. Serving a variety of handcrafted wines made on-premise, locally crafted beer and specialty drinks. Located a quarter-mile from the lake.

9. Crooked River Wine

13200 York-Delta Dr., North Royalton, OH 44133 (440) 628-9900, crookedriverwine.com

Established in 2020, specializing in the production of Ohio grape-based wines. Also, the home of Cleveland Jam. LE

10. Debonné Vineyards

7840 Doty Rd., Madison, OH 44057 (440) 466-3485, debonne.com

Ohio’s largest estate winery featuring award-winnning wines and an on-site brewery, plus a great appetizer and sandwich menu. Special events and live entertainment year-round. GRV, LE

11. Emerine Estates Winery 5689 Loveland Rd., Jefferson, OH 44047 (440) 293-8199, emerineestates.com

Come taste the excellence of a 100% all-natural, handcrafted fruit and traditional wine.

12. Ferrante Winery & Ristorante 5585 N. River Rd. W., Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 466-8466, ferrantewinery.com

One of Ohio’s premier estate-grown wineries in the Grand River Valley. Live weekend entertainment. Tasting room and restaurant open all year. GRV, LE

13. Grand River Cellars Winery & Restaurant

5750 Madison Rd. (St. Rte. 528), Madison, OH 44057 (440) 298-9838, grandrivercellars.com

Nestled into the woods, GRC offers a selection of quality wines from the region, locally crafted beers and a large menu. Live music Thurs.–Sun. GRV, LE

14. Greene Eagle Winery & Brew Pub 2576 Davis Peck Rd., Cortland, OH 44410 (330) 583-9463, greeneeagle.com

Enjoy the handcrafted wines and craft beer in our replica 18th-century post and beam Cape Cod winery. Take a sip back in time. Food available.

The Skeleton Root

PHOTO BY THE SKELETON ROOT

Kosicek Vineyards

15. Harpersfield Vineyard

6387 N. River Rd., Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 466-4739, harpersfield.com

Enjoy estate-bottled wines such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris in a European-inspired tasting room. GRV, LE

16. Hartford Hill Winery

3864 Bushnell Campbell Rd., Fowler, OH 44418 (330) 772-8040, hartfordhillwinery.com

Visit our barn winery from the 1800s with seating for 300 and entertainment Fri.–Sun. We host large parties, bridal showers, baby showers and other special events.

17. Hundley Cellars

6451 N. River Rd., Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 361-3088, hundleycellars.com

Uncork and unwind in this beautiful lodge-style winery. Enjoy expansive vineyard views, gourmet plates and delicious wines. GRV, LE

18. It’s Sloe Good

15118 Sperry Rd., Novelty, OH 44072 (440) 759-7959

It’s Sloe Good, “a checkered past winery” where you can enjoy wine with cars and experience the event center. Book your next event today.

19. Kosicek Vineyards

636 St. Rte. 534 S., Harpersfield, OH 44041 (440) 361-4573, kosicekvineyards.com

A third-generation vineyard founded in 1929. Our wines include locally-grown vintages produced right here in our winery. GRV, LE

20. The Lakehouse Inn Winery

5653 Lake Rd. E., Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH 44041 (440) 466-8668, thelakehouseinn.com

A boutique winery producing hand-crafted, small-batch wines. Our wines are exclusively available to guests staying at the inn or visiting the spa or restaurant. LE

21. Laleure Vineyards

17335 Nash Rd. (St. Rte. 88), Parkman, OH 44080 (440) 548-5120, laleurevineyards.com

This small winery produces quality wines made primarily from Vinifera grapes grown on the property. For GPS, use Middlefield, OH 44062.

22. Laurello Vineyards LLC

4573 St. Rte. 307 E., Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 415-0661, laurellovineyards.com

Boutique winery nestled in the heart of the Grand River Valley. Enjoy homemade limited food menu and handcrafted awardwinning wines. GRV, LE

23. Laurentia Vineyard and Winery

4599 S. Madison Rd., Madison, OH 44057 (440) 296-9175, laurentiawinery.com

Laurentia’s award-winning wines may be perfectly paired with a variety of boards, shaped plates and artisan flatbreads. GRV, LE

24. M Cellars

6193 S. River Rd. W., Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 361-4104, mcellars.com

At M Cellars, our mission is to provide an unparalleled guest experience, cultivate pristine vineyards and produce worldclass estate-grown wines. GRV, LE

25. Maple Ridge Vineyard

6326 Dewey Rd., Madison, OH 44057 (440) 487-6187

Boutique winery specializing in European-style wines with Ohio terroir. Enjoy a bottle of our wine in our pavilion. Appointment only. In January and February, we are closed. LE

26. Markko Vineyards

4500 S. Ridge Rd. W., Conneaut, OH 44030 (440) 593-3197, markko.com

Founded by Arnie Esterer, the beloved winemaker, mentor, friend and leader to so many in Ohio’s wine industry. “If we don’t grow it, we don’t make it. The wines speak for themselves.” Enjoy estate wines from the Conneaut Creek and Lake Erie region. LE

27. Mentor Brewing Company 9528 Diamond Centre Dr., Mentor, OH 44060 (440) 951-2739, mentorbrewingcompany.com

Make your own wine on-premise. GRV, LE

28. North Coast Wine Club

30700 Bainbridge Rd., Solon, OH 44139 (440) 821-4822, northcoastwineclub.net

Boutique winery specializing in handcrafted dry wines from all over the world. Stop by and enjoy. LE

29. Old Firehouse Winery 5499 Lake Rd. E., Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH 44041 (440) 466-9300, oldfirehousewinery.com

This quaint winery and restaurant is located on the Lake Erie shoreline in the village’s first fire station. Open seven days a week. LE

30. Rosabella Winery

3951 St. Rte. 307, Austinburg, OH 44010 (440) 275-5218, rosabellawinery.com

Award-winning wines, dog-friendly outdoor patios, wine tastings, pizzas, sandwiches, small bites, cheesecake flights, wine floats, sangrias and wine slushies. GRV, LE

31. Seven Brothers Distilling Co.

6527 N. River Rd. W., Harpersfield Twp., OH 44041 (216) 930-4330, sevenbrothersdistillingco.com

Visit our new tasting room and experience cocktails skillfully crafted from our award-winning bourbons, vodkas, rums and brandies. GRV, LE

32. Sharon James Cellars

11303 Kinsman Rd., Newbury, OH 44065 (440) 739-4065, sharonjamescellars.com

Our winery is an inviting atmosphere in which to enjoy fine wines, appetizers, pizzas and weekly specials. Live entertainment on Fri.–Sat. evenings.

33. Silver Crest Cellars 4511 Bates Rd., Madison, OH 44057 (440) 428-0677

We grow and specialize in dry red wines including Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Dornfelder and Meritage blends. We also grow Riesling, Chardonnay and other historical varieties and blends. GRV, LE

34. South River Winery & Red Eagle Distillery 6062 S. River Rd., Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 466-6676, southrivervineyard.com

Historic, picturesque winery building. Vineyards surround the tasting room and stretch as far as the eye can see. GRV, LE

35. Stable Winery 5961 St. Rte. 7, Andover, OH 44003 (440) 965-6900, stablewinery.com

A family-owned winery offering locally sourced wines and craft beers, bourbon, food and entertainment.

36. Stonegait Winery 4275 Bates Rd., Madison, OH 44057 (440) 307-9571, stonegaitwinery.com GRV, LE

37. Susec Chalet and Winery 1841 Barnum Rd., Geneva, OH 44041 (614) 678-6177, susecchaletandwinery.com

Open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Check website for other dates and private events. GRV, LE

38. Virant Family Winery 541 Atkins Rd., Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 466-6279 GRV, LE

39. Winery at Château Hough 1650 E. 66th St., Cleveland, OH 44103 (216) 438-0964, chateauhough.com

Urban winery with adjacent .75-acre vineyard and a visitor capacity of eight–10 indoors and 50+ outdoors (weather dependent), both by appointment. Service pets only. LE

40. The Winery at Spring Hill & Spring Hill Cider Works 6062 S. Ridge Rd. W., Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 466-0626, thewineryatspringhill.com

Located in the Grand River and Lake Erie wine regions and making more than 25 wines and hard ciders. Tastings available. GRV, LE

PHOTO BY DAVID DIEFFENBACHER

PHOTO BY KEVIN KOPANSKI

LIVEWell

Play Time

June 8 is Family Health and Fitness Day, which promotes the importance of parks and recreation. Here is how to make outdoor time together part of your life.

Much like setting aside time for a game night together, finding ways to get outdoors as a family deepens connections along with delivering the benefits of exercise. Plus, there is plenty of fresh air.

“Exercising together and developing healthy habits expands on family time and is important for the dynamic,” explains Dr. Matthew Lyman of Kettering Health Medical Group Primary Care, located in Centerville. “These early lifestyle modifications build habits to prevent health problems later in life.”

June 8 is Family Health and Fitness Day, which is dedicated to promoting the importance of parks and recreation as a staple for healthy, active families. Here is how to make it part of your routine.

Kristen Hampshire

Set a Game Plan. With work, childcare and a loaded calendar, adding family fitness to the

schedule might seem like mission impossible.

“Set a time, like when you get home from work, [to] take a short walk together. Build small habits,” Lyman suggests.

Aim for 150. Clocking 150 minutes of movement every week might sound like a feat. “But it’s three days of walking for a half hour and an hourlong hike on the weekend,” Lyman says. Plus, everyone will sleep better afterward. “That can be a motivator for parents when it comes to bedtime.”

Mix It Up. Brainstorm activities as a family and take turns choosing fun outings like visiting a local playground or trail and make a list of activities to try such as kayaking. Remember to include easy wins like bike rides, backyard games or a stroll at a nearby park. “Many local parks are geared toward kids with nature presentations they can read along trails,” Lyman says.

Happy Trails

Hiking is fun, but being prepared will make sure your trek is a smooth one. An Ohio Department of Natural Resources naturalist shares pointers for exploring our state parks.

Nature is good medicine for restoring the spirit, but logging miles by way of low-impact trail walking also offers the physical benefits of movement. Above all, hiking in nature spurs a sense of wonder and stimulates the senses in ways other activities don’t.

There’s also history and a sense of mystery to a good trail hike, which Ohio Department of Natural Resources naturalist Jeff Large enjoys sharing on tours through Hocking Hills State Park, where he takes visitors to landmarks like Old Man’s Cave. We asked Large for his advice on safely exploring the trails that wind throughout Ohio’s state parks. —Kristen Hampshire

Map a Course. Before your hike, access a trail map online or stop by a park visitor center. “Know what route you want to take and find spots along the route where you can take a breather,” Large says. Also, share your plan with others. “Cell service can be spotty out here, so let someone know where you plan to go.”

Be Realistic. When plotting a course, keep in mind, mileage doesn’t factor in rigor. “You hear 1 mile and think, ‘that’s easy,’ but if you are going up and down hills … it’s rougher than you think,” Large says. Trails that pro-

vide multiple exits can shorten a hike and offer flexibility in case plans change. “Also, if you pull a muscle, know how to get off the trail sooner,” Large advises.

Safety First. Keep an eye out for trail markings and hazards, and always stay on course. “[In the Hocking Hills,] we have a lot of hills and cliff edges, so the trails are for visitors’ safety and for the surrounding plant life,” Large says, relating that preservation of the natural environment is a park priority.

Tote Some Supplies. Pack what you need without getting weighed down. Necessities include a simple first-aid kit that contains bandages, gauze dressings, antibiotic cream, scissors, tweezers and gloves. Be sure to tuck your driver’s license and an extra pair of socks in too. “Bring more water than you think you’ll need,” Large says. “People usually underestimate.” Also, pack some healthy snacks and take the trash out with you.

Lace Up. “Many of the injuries we see on trails are caused by improper footwear,” Large says. Be mindful of conditions such as mud, slick rock, gravel and uneven terrain. If you invest in hiking boots, be sure to break them in at home before hitting the trails.

Try a Tour. Guided hiking tours led by state naturalists can open your eyes to aspects of the trail that you might otherwise overlook, including historical markers, plants and wildlife. Check the calendar on the ODNR website. “We also do free kayaking demos, fishing [and] archery,” Large says. “All of these activities and the tours are free.”

For more information, visit ohiodnr.gov.

Find road trip inspiration, learn about giveaways and events, and connect with the beauty, the adventure and the fun of Ohio.

These 10 flowing cascades exemplify the beauty of Ohio. We talked with the photographers who love to capture them and share how you can check out these sights for yourself. By Gracie Metz

Brandywine Falls

Though the sun had just begun to rise over Cuyahoga Valley National Park, photographer Gabe Leidy had already been sitting alongside Brandywine falls for hours, ready to craft the image he had dreamed up. Leidy has been exploring the roughly 33,000-acre national park since he was a child, growing up just 25 minutes away in the city of Parma. The photo, billed by Leidy as “Here Comes the Sun,” is in fact a compilation of 54 individual photos, all cut together to make one breathtaking image that captures the beauty found in Ohio’s only national park. “I knew the sun was going to rise over that lip of the waterfall and what angle and what time,” says Leidy, who has spent much time photographing landscapes in the park. The 60-foot-tall waterfall can be seen along the 1.5-mile Brandywine Gorge Loop. Summer visitors can descend the wooden stairs to get a close-up view of the falls.

LOCATION: Trailhead: 8176

Brandywine Rd., Sagamore Hills 44607

gabe_leidyphoto

Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave

The allure of Hocking Hills is nearly impossible to resist, and the region’s natural beauty is what keeps drawing Rick Buchanan from his home in Columbus to take photos here. Crystal clear waters appear to turn emerald green as they spill over the blackhand sandstone rocks and fall 20 feet to the pool below. Buchanan stood alone along the edge of the water to capture this early spring morning shot of the falls. Although there is no bad season to see Hocking Hills’ waterfalls, Buchanan says spring is a good time to visit. “The thing that keeps me going back there, in addition to being so close, is that it changes so often over the course of the seasons,” he says. “Every time you go, you encounter a different atmosphere and different environment and different way of looking at it.”

LOCATION: Old Man’s Cave Parking Area: 19988 St. Rte. 664 Scenic, Logan 43138 rickbuchananphotography

Cedar Falls

This 50-foot waterfall is the largest by volume within the Hocking Hills region as well as the state of Ohio. Another of the waterfalls Rick Buchanan likes to photograph during his trips to this part of southeast Ohio, Cedar Falls can be found along the half-mile Cedar Falls Trail. Hocking Hills State Park’s Cedar Falls, Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave are all destinations along the 6-mile Grandma Gatewood Trail, which is also part of the statewide Buckeye Trail as well as the national North Country Scenic and America’s Discovery trails. “There’s a lot of hidden beauty in Ohio,” says Buchanan, who has been a full-time photographer since 2004 and is drawn back to this part of southeast Ohio year after year. “You just have to get out there and look for it, find it and know where it is.

LOCATION: Cedar Falls Trailhead: 21724 St. Rte. 374, Logan 43138

rickbuchananphotography

Lower Falls at Old Man’s Cave

Another waterfall found near Hocking Hills’ Old Man’s Cave that Rick Buchanan captured in the spring was the Lower Falls. He created this image just as day broke over the woods and the waters were flowing strong after a storm. This side shot of the falls captures the details in both the water and rock formations, which sets it apart from head-on shots of the falls. When it comes to Lower Falls, this angle is the one most accessible to photographers too. “I find Lower Falls a little bit more difficult to photograph because of the way it falls and where you can access it,” Buchanan says. “So going to the side gives it a little more drama. It makes the waterfall seem a little bit larger and seem more imposing and more significant.”

LOCATION:

Old Man’s Cave Parking Area: 19988 St. Rte. 664 Scenic, Logan 43138

rickbuchananphotography

West Milton Cascades

Plenty of visitors to downtown West Milton explore the cascades that are found in the village center. Down a short set of stairs, the 20-foot falls spill over, and the gentle flow welcomes explorers to walk along the waters. For photographer Adam David Wagner, being out among the falls is about more than getting the perfect shot, it is also a chance to mindfully get out in nature. Wagner pops his earbuds in and walks the site for about 20 minutes, angling the camera and looking for different ways to set up the scene, just like this one that captures the waterfall’s multiple tiers. “It’s the coolest looking waterfall that I’ve seen in Ohio yet, and I think I’ve seen most of them,” Wagner says. “Going there and taking that shot has probably been my favorite [image] that I have as a photographer.”

LOCATION:

Accessible through West Milton Municipal Park: 249 E. Tipp Pike, West Milton 45383 adamdavidwagner

Hayden Falls

By looking at photos of the 35-foot-tall Hayden Falls, you might guess that it is found in a remote area of a state park, but it’s actually located down a quarter-mile trail in the city of Dublin’s Hayden Falls Park, a natural space nestled among the bustle of the suburbs. Photographer Rick Barge loves to discover new waterfalls but says that he has known about the beauty of this location for years. “I used to buy waterfall books, but now with the internet, I belong to an Ohio waterfalls group, [and] I get a lot of new ones off that group that I haven’t known about,” he says. Although the area is touted for its shopping and dining opportunities, the falls are the only thing that brought Barge to Dublin the day he created this photograph, traveling about two hours from home in Butler County to capture this image in summer 2018.

LOCATION: 4326 Hayden Run Rd., Dublin 43017 bargephotography

Ludlow Falls

Located near the town post office and firehouse, Ludlow Falls is the namesake of the Miami County village where it resides, and Adam David Wagner paid a visit on his day off with a friend to get the perfect shot. The pair had to be a bit adventurous to find the best way to capture an image of the 15-foot waterfall. It spills into Stillwater River, and although there is a viewing platform for the falls, that was not where Wagner felt the best photos would come from. “We decided to get our gear and go hiking down through these woods, and there was a huge — I don’t know if it was manmade or a beaver — dam down there and we set up on the dam for a little bit and took a couple pictures.” This photo was ultimately taken from the banks of the river, but the behind-the-lens story of that day has stuck with Wagner over the years.

LOCATION: 11 Greenville Ave., Ludlow Falls 45339

adamdavidwagner

Charleston Falls

Rick Barge is on a quest to visit every waterfall in Ohio, although the one he always comes back to is Charleston Falls in Tipp City. Located near his Butler County home in Liberty Township, this waterfall in Charleston Falls Preserve is the one closest to Barge, and the beauty of the 37-foottall cascade rewards photographers who make repeat trips. Barge says he has been to 106 waterfalls in the state of Ohio, but this was one of the first he visited. He has been shooting landscape photography here since the 1990s. “I’ve been up there I don’t even know how many times,” he says. “That’s kind of a short walk, it might be a little over a mile to get to that falls, so maybe a couple miles round-trip ”

LOCATION:

2535 Ross Rd., Tipp City 45371 bargephotography

Chagrin Falls

Nick Hoeller and his wife, Isabella, explored Chagrin Falls for the first time in 2019, having dinner in the quaint northeast Ohio town before taking a stroll to see the village’s namesake. Night was about to fall, and the streetlamps had kicked on, so Hoeller walked down to the base of the falls to capture a dusk shot of the rushing Chagrin River. “Since it was a dusk shot, definitely a longer exposure was being used on this one,” says Hoeller, who has been a freelance photographer since 2020. “That gives you that really nice, silky look of the water.” The golden glow of the lamps bouncing off the cascade made for a unique shot of the falls, which spills from a rocky outcropping under the North Main Street Bridge.

LOCATION: Access stairs near Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop: 53 N. Main St., Chagrin Falls 44022 nickhoeller

Big Lyons Falls

The larger of two waterfalls located within Loudonville’s 1,100-acre Mohican State Park, Big Lyons Falls is not a rushing torrent. But standing 80 feet tall, the long drop from the top makes its magnitude feel much greater. The rocky walls of Clearfork Gorge extend toward the sky, wrapping guests in the serenity of this part of the park. Photographer Rick Barge stood at the top of a set of wooden stairs out of the gorge to catch the cascade in motion. This waterfall requires a hefty rainfall to get flowing, and Barge had visited the park three times before, hoping to get a shot of the falls. It had eluded him until spring 2019. “I’m trying to go back again when [there is] even more flow,” he says. “I do kind of watch the weather when I see major storms up there.”

LOCATION: Big Lyons Falls Trailhead: 1041 County Rd. 3006, Perrysville 44864 bargephotography

national treasure

In 1974, the federal government protected a serene stretch of nature now known as Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It was part of a movement to bring parks to people, an idea that took hold five decades ago and set in motion work that continues today.

By Vince Guerrieri

In the spring of 1974, U.S. Rep. John F. Seiberling appeared before the House Subcommittee on National Parks and Recreation to make an impassioned argument for the preservation of a portion of the Cuyahoga River Valley, and he knew time was not on his side.

Seiberling, a member of the family that founded Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. and a Democrat first elected to Congress in 1970, represented a Summit County district that was still largely rural but was also quickly being reshaped by the rise of commercial centers and suburban sprawl. As Seiberling addressed the Congressional hearing on March 1, 1974, construction was already underway for a new sports arena in Richfield, with Cleveland Cavaliers owner Nick Mileti seeing the area’s potential for growth. The Richfield Coliseum opened several months later with Frank Sinatra taking the stage.

Despite the progress heralded by such a project, Seiberling hoped to illustrate how much stood to be lost. For untold generations, the Cuyahoga River and the land in the valley it runs through had been a vital natural resource. Indigenous people relied on the river for drinking water and crop irrigation.

“It’s been remarkable to me to watch the evolution of the community and the visitors and how much they appreciate this place. We did not fit the mold of a national park. We were a different kind of park, and we still are.”

— Cuyahoga Valley National Park superintendent Lisa Petit

As time went on, the river became vital to economic development, first as canals opened the interior of the state to trade and later as the rise of industry saw factories being built along the banks of the river. By the latter half of the 20th century, Seiberling feared that the valley’s identity as a place of natural beauty was in danger of being decimated.

“With its magnificent cliffs and woods, waterfalls and meadows, it is a pastoral wonder, a quiet haven away from the nearby bustling cities,” Seiberling said in the statement he presented to the House subcommittee. “It is also a historic treasure, a reminder of our cultural roots and the earth which brought us forth. Truly it is an experience that must be saved, and shared, for future generations.”

The idea was met with resistance from some local officials who were unhappy about a park taking land off the tax rolls, but Congress passed the bill creating what was to be called the Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area — 32,000 acres along 22 miles of the Cuyahoga River — in December 1974. Despite his own objections, President Gerald Ford signed the bill into law just before the end of the year.

That foresight forever changed the trajectory of Summit County by creating what is today its most notable and accessible natural attraction. In 2000, Republican Congressman Ralph Regula, who had been instrumental in the original effort to garner federal protection for the land, shepherded through a name change for Cuyahoga Valley National Recreation Area.

The newly christened Cuyahoga Valley National Park was now in the company of destinations like Yosemite and Yellowstone, some of the first places in the United States set aside for the enjoyment of all. It was also the start of a new story about what the land contained within Ohio’s only national park can and should be.

Artifacts found in the Cuyahoga Valley indicate that humans were living there not long after the glaciers that carved out the Great Lakes receded around 10,000 years ago. Over the generations, these Indigenous people advanced from nomadic hunter-gatherers to farmers who used water from the Cuyahoga River to irrigate their crops.

“The Cuyahoga is one of the biggest riversheds in northern Ohio,” says Brian Redmond, an archaeologist and emeritus curator of archaeology at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. “It’s a flood plain, and flood-plain soils are really rich for agriculture.”

Around 1650, Redmond says, Indigenous people began mov ing out, and in the 1700s, other Native American tribes such as the Wyandot and Ottawa moved in. The valley containing the Cuyahoga River ultimately became part of the Northwest Territory for the new United States and, in 1803, part of Ohio.

Seven years later, Johnathan Hale, a brickmaker from Connecticut,

Top to bottom: Fisherman at Pinery Dam in 1895; Brecksville Station in the 1920s; Civilian Conservation Corps workers at Kendall Lake in the 1930s; 1970s photo of the river valley

bought 500 acres of land sight unseen from the Connecticut Land Co., which had sold many spots throughout the valley as part of the Connecticut Western Reserve. That property remained in the Hale family until 1956 when it was bequeathed to the Western Reserve Historical Society, which today operates Hale Farm & Village there. Contained entirely within the boundaries of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, the living-history destination includes eight historic structures built by the Hale family and another two dozen moved to the property in order to preserve them.

In 1825, the same year the Erie Canal opened in New York as a connector between the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes, the Ohio legislature authorized the construction of the Ohio & Erie Canal, linking the Ohio River in Portsmouth to Lake Erie. Traveling 308 miles, it ran through the middle of what is now Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Visitors can learn about that era at the Canal Exploration Center in Valley View. Those who want to explore the historic route on foot or by bicycle can do so on the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail that stretches nearly 100 miles from downtown Cleveland and traverses the length of the national park before continuing to its current end point in Dover.

By the 1880s, the railroads that were diminishing the canal’s role began offering excursion trips for urban residents to come out and enjoy the natural beauty of the Cuyahoga River Valley, connecting city dwellers with the outdoors. (The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic

Railroad offers similar sightseeing excursions today.)

African Americans who moved north to work in the region’s mills and warehouses in the early to mid-20th century enjoyed evenings out at the Drift Inn/Cabin Club, Stonibrook and Lake Glen, all of which operated in the Cuyahoga Valley.

When the Cleveland Orchestra needed a summer home in the 1960s, it built an amphitheater not far from Riverview Road that was completed in 1967. Today, Blossom Music Center is contained within Cuyahoga Valley National Park and still hosts the orchestra’s summer series as well as a slate of nationally touring musical acts.

Taking in the stillness of Beaver Marsh or the roar of Brandywine Falls on a summer morning, it is still tough to imagine that a place like Cuyahoga Valley National Park exists in the shadow of two cities known for tires and steel more than peace and quiet.

Wildlife abounds here, from the beavers that have found a new home in a marsh that was once the site of a salvage yard to the great blue herons that build their enormous nests in treetops along Ira Road to the turtles that sun themselves on logs in pools of water that collect along the route of the Ohio & Erie Canal.

Since the Cuyahoga Valley received its designation as a national park in 2000, an ever-increasing number of travelers have found their way to it, many on a quest to visit the 63 national parks that dot the

The great blue heron is one of the many bird species found in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

United States from the coast of Maine to the mountains of Alaska. But the true impact of Cuyahoga Valley National Park and where it still holds more promise to be realized is with those who live closest to its now approximately 33,000 acres.

“It’s been remarkable to me to watch the evolution of the community and the visitors and how much they appreciate this place,” says Lisa Petit, who has been with the park since 2000 and was named superintendent of Cuyahoga Valley National Park in 2021. “We did not fit the mold of a national park. We were a different kind of park, and we still are.”

It was the region’s proximity to Akron and Cleveland that inspired its preservation in the first place. The effort was born as part of the Parks to People movement of the early 1970s, aimed at establishing parks in or near urban areas for people who might not be able to travel to the large national parks in America’s west. Federally protected recreation areas were also established in the New York metro area and in San Francisco.

Although the national park federal designation it received in 2000 increased the visibility of the Cuyahoga Valley, there is still work to be done in making it a resource for all, according to Deb Yandala, CEO of the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The organization is one of the largest groups of its kind for a national park, with a budget of $8 million, a membership of 4,000 and a staff of 100.

“Our visitation isn’t completely reflective of the region,” Yandala says. “The park is close to the city but doesn’t connect with urban residents as much as it should, and we’re working on that.”

The park remains a work in progress ecologically too. Today, the Cuyahoga River is touted as an environmental success story, but when Petit started at the park, things were different.

“We were Cuyahoga Valley National Park along the Cuyahoga River, and we did everything we could to discourage people from even touching the river,” Petit says.

These days, it’s not uncommon to see kayakers paddling on the river and efforts in recent years, including the removal of the Brecksville Diversion Dam near the Station Road Bridge, have been aimed at further returning the river to a more natural state.

In 1985, the park purchased the Krejci Dump, a former auto yard that required a massive cleanup, which was completed in 2020. The park faces similar issues with the Brandywine Golf Course in Peninsula, which closed in 2018. The conservancy purchased the course in 2022, keeping it from potential redevelopment, and later formally sold most of the land to the park.

“Most every old golf course before the EPA existed used things that you don’t want in the soil,” Yandala says. “It’s quite a process. We’ve had many, many, many truckloads of soil taken away.”

The park and conservancy are now seeking input for the best use of the golf course property. Petit says that these projects also provide an opportunity to revisit the park’s mission after a half century of existence and bring it closer to the spirit of the 1970s movement that aided in it being set aside in the first place.

“We have a fairly big hurdle to jump still,” Petit says. “We were put here between Akron and Cleveland for a reason, and we still haven’t reached those inner cities, especially in Cleveland. … One of our primary goals is to make good on our promise. We’re a park to some people, but we need to be accessible to all people.”

The Cuyahoga River, once a waterway that was polluted and not fit for recreation, is now a place for paddlers (left). Cuyahoga Valley National Park is also a destination for hikers and offers more than 125 miles of trails to explore (above).

Greetings From the Walleye Capital of the World

Lake Erie is a great place to cast a line for freshwater fish species such as perch and bass, but it is also teeming with more walleye than it has been in years.

Here is why that is happening and how you can be part of it. By Kristina Smith

Peg VanVleet’s earliest memories are of fishing on Lake Erie with her parents and grandparents. Most weekends during the spring and summer, they’d drive up to the lake, hop on their boat and head out in search of some of the lake’s prized walleye, perch and smallmouth bass.

After bringing home their haul, her parents, grandparents and their buddies would start cleaning the fish, and her grandmother would fry them up for dinner. Getting out on the water, enjoying being in nature and then cooking and eating the catch of the day was a special ritual that helped shape who VanVleet is today.

“It became a part of me,” she says. “When I was in my late 40s, I decided I wanted to share my love of the lake with people who didn’t have the opportunity to do that. So I took a sea tech marine class, took the test and got my captain’s license.”

For the next 25 years, VanVleet worked as a Lake Erie charter captain. She retired in summer 2023, but she still helps the crew at her former company, Blue Sky Charters, out of Port Clinton. She also continues to organize a fleet of charter captains who take legislators, tourism officials, media members and other guests fishing during the annual Governor’s Fish Ohio Day, during which participants experience firsthand why Lake Erie has long been referred to as the Walleye Capital of the World and is known as an excellent fishery for a variety of species.

Peg VanVleet, photographed here with a fish as a child, grew up to be a Lake Erie charter boat captain. She says her earliest memories are tied to fishing on Lake Erie.

During Fish Ohio Day last year, VanVleet was excited that Gov. Mike DeWine and his wife, Fran, brought their 6-year-old grandson, Desi, along on her boat. She spent the day helping Desi fish, and the pair challenged DeWine to see who could catch the most. Desi won with 11 fish — one more than his grandpa caught.

“My most favorite thing is to take young kids and teach them,” says VanVleet, who is known around the lake as Captain Peg. “We’ve had kids who have never fished before and never held a fishing pole in their hand. They are our future, and if we don’t hook them now, we won’t get them hooked.”

Fostering a connection to the lake and its wildlife in people of all ages and raising awareness of the importance of protecting those resources is what drives VanVleet and many of the 954 licensed charter captains from Ohio operating on Lake Erie.

And now is the perfect time to do it. Lake Erie’s walleye fishing is better than ever, thanks to great walleye hatches — including the biggest on record — in recent years, says Travis Hartman, Lake Erie Fisheries program administrator for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Wildlife.

“There’s no doubt these are the good old days,” Hartman says of the fishing. “We’re living in them.”

isn’t known, but the city of Port Clinton, which also claims the walleye capital moniker, solidified it in 1997 by launching a New Year’s Eve tradition of dropping a giant fiberglass walleye from a crane at midnight.

When I was in my late 40s, I decided I wanted to share my love of the lake with people who didn’t have the opportunity to do that. So I

took a sea tech marine class,

took the test and got my captain’s license.

Peg VanVleet

Since the 1980s, Lake Erie has been called the Walleye Capital of the World. Exactly how that name came about

Years of excellent fishing for walleye, which are big and prized for their tasty fillets, earned the lake that title though. Most walleye caught on Lake Erie are between 18 and 28 inches long.

“There are more of them here than just about anywhere else,” says Tory Gabriel, extension program leader and fisheries educator for Ohio State University’s Ohio Sea Grant and Stone Laboratory. “They’re fun to catch. It’s kind of the thrill of the hunt. They can be difficult to catch sometimes in certain conditions. So, when you do catch one, it’s kind of a rewarding experience.”

Although anglers enjoy targeting other species of fish

that are prevalent on the lake, walleye tend to be the prize.

“They want to catch that top predator fish,” VanVleet says. “People are just excited to see that fish come out of the water with all those teeth.”

The prevalence of the catch has gone up and down over the years, depending on the size of spring walleye hatches and environmental conditions of the lake. The 1980s were astounding fishing years because results of the Clean Water Act passed in 1972 had improved the ecosystem, Hartman says.

“There was lots of interest in fishing and a recovering walleye population,” he explains. “A lot of things aligned at the right time to really put Lake Erie on the map as the Walleye Capital of World.”

By the 1990s, invasive zebra mussels and other non-native species got into the lake and negatively impacted the food chain. Then in the 2000s, harmful algal blooms, which can produce toxins and have been a problem each summer since, also had a negative impact. The booming catch of the 1980s was long over, although Hartman points out that even in down years, there were still millions of walleye in the lake and good fishing to be had.

A massive, unexpected walleye hatch in 2003 got anglers through the next decade, but the hatches that followed in later years were disappointing. Biologists long believed that hard winters with good ice cover on Lake Erie were a key piece to getting a good walleye hatch, and the lake rarely freezes for extended periods anymore. Another potential key to good hatches — at least in the 1980s — was high water levels. Levels had been low for many years until the late 2010s. Those higher water levels could be why in 2018, Lake Erie suddenly began producing booming walleye hatches.

Ohio and the Canadian province of Ontario measure the hatches by trawling for fish at sites in Lake Erie’s Western Basin each August. They then take the numbers from these trawl surveys to determine the number of walleye hatched, and they measure them by the number of fish caught per hectare, which is a metric measurement equivalent to about 2.4 acres.

The 2018 and 2019 hatches were excellent, with 256 and 225 walleye per hectare respectively, and the 2021 class is the largest on record with 346 fish per hectare, Hartman says. The 2023 class was also above average with 132 fish per hectare.

“After ’03, we thought, ‘We’ll never see that again.’ And in the past six years we’ve gotten three year classes bigger than ’03,” he says. “The last five years have had higher harvest rates than any year in the ’80s.”

Although harmful algal blooms are still a major issue for Lake Erie, they have not kept walleye from thriving, Gabriel points out.

Usually, fish from a great hatch year will become large enough to be legally kept after two years, and they will be catchable in large numbers for the next decade. With three phenomenal hatches in recent years, Hartman says he is confident Lake Erie fishing will be good for the next decade.

Peg VanVleet and Gov. Mike DeWine on a Governor’s Fish Ohio Day outing (opposite page top left); Gov. James A. Rhodes started the tradition in 1979.

Go Fish!

Want to cast a line on Lake Erie? Here are resources that can help you get out on the water.

Ohio Sea Grant offers threeday fishing workshops each year (opposite page top right). A fishing tournament at the Huron Boat Basin (opposite page bottom right)

Anyone above the age of 16 who wants to fish in public waters needs a current Ohio fishing license that can be obtained online at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website, ohiodnr.gov.

Ohio State University’s Stone Laboratory on Gibraltar Island offers a three-day fishing workshop each year that covers the basics of fishing. Stone Lab also offers a weeklong fishing course for college credit, although it is open to anyone interested. (To enroll in the fishing class, participants must have completed a one-year high school biology course.) For more information on the workshop or class, visit ohioseagrant.osu.edu.

There are numerous charter boats and head boats available on Lake Erie. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Wildlife keeps a list of licensed charter captains, and there are various charter associations on Lake Erie, including the Lake Erie Charter Boat Association (lecba.net), Sandusky Charter Boat Association (fishingcharterscba.com) and West Sister Charter Fleet (wscba.com).

Walleye Hatch

The 2023 Lake Erie Western Basin walleye hatch trawl index was 132 fish per hectare (a standard measure of catch per area) — well above the average of 56 and the fifth largest in the survey’s 36-year history. Youngof-year means all fish of a species under one year of age. Source: Ohio Division of Wildlife

“In Lake Erie, there are so many [walleye] right now, so when you get on a school of them, it can be pretty quick catching,” Gabriel adds. “That’s not usual walleye fishing. That’s kind of unique to Lake Erie.”

Walleye might be king, but plenty of anglers come to Lake Erie for other types of fish. Depending on the time of year, the smaller yellow perch are extremely popular. They are another tasty fish and frequently ordered in restaurants around the lake.

Smallmouth bass are probably the third-most targeted fish, VanVleet says. They are a large species that is fun to catch because they put up quite a fight when reeling them in. More anglers are trying to catch largemouth bass (another large species that prefers warmer water) because climate change is warming the lake and creating more nearshore warm spots to find them in. Professional tournaments for walleye and bass take place on the lake each year.

Charter services that specialize in targeting catfish (an aspect of the business that is relatively new on Lake Erie) are popping up on the Sandusky Bay. White bass are also heavily fished during their spring run on the Sandusky River, as well as in certain spots on the lake.

Yellow perch populations in the Western Basin of the lake — around the islands — are doing well, but the Ohio Department of Natural Resources is concerned about declining yellow perch in the Central Basin, which stretches from Sandusky to Conneaut. Smallmouth and largemouth bass populations are stable, and catch rates are good. Catfish populations are strong, and catfishing on the Sandusky Bay is “literally world class,” Hartman says.

might catch a big perch, a big catfish, a big sheepshead. Our lake provides that variety of fish.”

Gabriel connects both beginning and seasoned anglers to Lake Erie’s fish and where to find them each summer during a workshop and a weeklong fishing class he teaches at Ohio State University’s Stone Laboratory on Gibraltar Island, just offshore from Put-in-Bay.

During the class, students make their own lures that they use to fish. They learn about fish habitats and how to fish for everything from bluegill to white bass to catfish to walleye. They also learn about Lake Erie ecology, invasive species and their impacts, and how to clean and prepare their fish for eating.

“It’s super fun to create your own lure and catch your fish on it and keep it and eat it,” says Gabriel, who has been teaching the class since 2008. “Obviously when somebody has never caught a fish before or a certain species, that’s really, really cool.”

For Gabriel, working with these upstart anglers and helping them develop a connection to and love for fishing on Lake Erie is very rewarding.

If you’ve never done it before, fishing is just a really good way to have an experience in nature and really get a lot out of it, more than just the fish.”

Tory Gabriel

“I think that’s why people like our lake so much,” VanVleet says. “Even though you’re targeting walleye, you

“It’s my favorite thing to do in the job,” he says. “It’s allowing people to interact with the environment in this way. If you’ve never done it before, fishing is just a really good way to have an experience in nature and really get a lot out of it, more than just the fish.”

For those who have never fished Lake Erie, Gabriel, VanVleet and Hartman recommend going on a charter boat with a captain or a head boat, which is a walkon boat with numerous anglers and crew who can help them or try fishing from shore. VanVleet has fished for redfish and sea trout in the south, walleye in Canada and blue marlin in Hawaii. Yet, she keeps coming back to Lake Erie.

“Lake Erie is by far the best place to go fishing,” she says. “Lake Erie is in my blood.”

LAKE COUNTY

This northeast Ohio county may be the smallest in the state, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in lakefront fun, small-town experiences and one-of-a-kind wineries. By Erin Finan

DOWNTOWN WILLOUGHBY

LAKE COUNTY

Fairport Harbor

With 31 miles of shoreline along Lake Erie, Lake County is home to some of the best beaches in the state. Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park is the second-most visited park in the Lake Metroparks system, with summertime drawing thousands to the beach and nearby village of Fairport Harbor.

The neatly groomed park spans 1,200 feet of sand beach, making it a great place to lounge and soak up some rays or hop in the lake for a quick cooldown. During the summer, visitors can take advantage of the park’s amenities such as kayak and paddleboard rentals, a boardwalk and concession stand.

A new addition to the experience is the Lakefront Trail, an ADA-accessible path right along the lake that will eventually bridge the 2.5-mile span between the beach and Painesville Township Park, something Lake Metroparks executive director Paul Palagyi is looking forward to.

“There are a lot of lakefront trails throughout the Great Lakes. Some are lon-

ger than this one, but very few are directly on the lake like this,” he says. “It has beautiful views of sunsets to the west, Fairport Harbor and the lighthouse. It’s really a beautiful setting.”

Phase one of the project was completed in March 2024, with a half mile of the trail

being constructed at Painesville Township Park, and phase two is set to begin this summer.

Further inland, the village of Fairport Harbor has plenty of fun to offer visitors as well. Refresh on a hot day with homemade ice cream from Fairport Harbor Cream-

RAISE A GLASS

LAKE COUNTY

2024 Season

ery, which also serves up boozy varieties for the 21-and-up crowd. Sit down for a meal at The Pompadour, a trendy smallplates restaurant and cocktail bar, or explore the Fairport Harbor Marine Museum and Lighthouse, which houses a collection of Great Lakes artifacts in a historic, two-story keeper’s house.

While you’re in the area, head less than a mile west and you’ll encounter another of the region’s great beaches (the largest in Ohio, in fact), Headlands Beach State Park. The 35-acre park offers excellent opportunities for swimming, sunbathing and even beach-glass hunting.

Downtown Willoughby

The city of Willoughby offers a vibrant hub of small-town living. Filled with opportunities for shopping, dining and drinks, outdoor fun and more, it is a perfect place to spend time in the peak of summer.

One of the newest additions to the downtown dining scene is Tricky Tortoise Brewing Co. Opened in spring 2024, the brewery is housed in the city’s old trolley-repair facility (which more recently housed the Willoughby Brewing Co.). Spearheading the building’s revival is Bobby Ehasz, whose goal is to modernize the space without forsaking the history or industrial charm.

Clue: On Stage

“We’ve tried to just keep in mind that this is the community’s property, the community’s place to come hang out, smile, drink and have fun, and we want to give that back,” he says. “When I saw this building dark and dilapidated, it struck something in me where I wanted to get in there and fix it and bring it back again, and it’s been very, very satisfying to see it come together.”

The food menu leans toward American-comfort fare, although the brewery itself is more drink-focused, serving housemade craft beers, seltzers, ciders and sangria.

Another spot to check out in the summer is The Yard on 3rd, a seasonally operating food truck bar located just off the city’s main drag of Erie Street. As the name suggests, the venue is set outdoors with a centralized shaded bar area and faux turf covering the ground, as well as plenty of room for giant versions of tabletop games like Connect 4 and Jenga. Cocktails are fu-

eled by the Columbus-based Simple Times Mixers, while all other drinks come in cans, adding to the backyard vibe.

“We’re unique because we’re the only outdoor seasonal venue in Willoughby,” says general manager and operating partner Katie Uminski. “We’re the only truck park in Willoughby … and we’re very Instagram-worthy.”

For summertime shopping, head down Erie Street, and you’ll spot local businesses Etc. on Erie and Yogi’s Closet. Etc. on Erie specializes in versatile home decor, while Yogi’s Closet offers boutique clothing, women’s activewear and locally made products like lotions and greeting cards.

Taco Nirvana

Returning with over 20 locations this year, the Lake County Taco Trail offers a fun way to experience the many authentic taquerias and Mexican restaurants throughout Lake County. Download the passport on your mobile phone, grab some friends and family and visit locations to earn prizes. tourlakecounty. com/taco-trail

Wineries

The unique qualities of Ohio’s Grand River Valley region are what make it one of the best places in the state to grow grapes and produce wine. Many businesses have taken advantage of the blend of rich soil and warm air that make this area so fruitful, and today, over 30 wineries can be found here.

One vineyard known for its idyllic location in the Grand River Valley is South River Vineyard. Founded with the purchase of 140 acres of farmland in 1995, South River seamlessly blends updated, optimized winemaking with a beautiful setting and a touch of history on a sprawling property, as owner Gene Sigel is eager to point out.

“The appeal of South River vineyard is just the customers’ ability to picnic outside and walk between the buildings and lawns and find that quiet location…” he says. “The distillery is an old timber-frame barn that was built in 1885. It’s been restored to be the distillery and the taproom … so we have a creative reuse of existing historical buildings.”

Another area winery (and one of the region’s oldest) is Debonné Vineyards. Lo-

SOL

Sol brings unique, vibrant fusion food and cocktails to downtown Willoughby. Explore tastes from all over the world in a large eclectic space.

38257 Glenn Ave. | 440-918-1596 solwilloughby.com

THE WILD GOOSE

This locally owned sports bar features awardwinning stone oven pizza and craft beer and was voted a top 25 sports bar in Cleveland by cleveland.com. 4144 Erie St. | 440- 951-6644 wildgoosewlby.com

NÓRA’S PUBLIC HOUSE

This family-owned Irish pub brings you the best in Irish and American fare, craft beer and live music. Be sure to head outside to check out downtown Willoughby’s favorite patio. 4054 Erie St. | 440-571-4640 noraspublichouse.net

FIONA’S COFFEE BAR & BAKERY

This family-owned coffee shop offers bagels and mini donuts that are made fresh daily. Stop by for lunch or grab a quick coffee or espresso drink to go. 4148 Erie St. | 440-571-4226 fionascoffeebar.com

food and produce from our scratch kitchen. 4051 Erie St. | 440-946-2300 sagekarmakitchens.com

MICKEY’S ICE CREAM

Mickey’s has been scooping up happiness in downtown Willoughby since 2022. Stop by and grab yourself some locally sourced ice cream, jumbo hot dogs

South River Vineyard encourages its visitors to explore (above). Tricky Tortoise Brewing Co. opened in Willoughby (opposite page).

LAKE COUNTY

cated on a family-owned century farm in Madison, this winery has been making a name for itself in the Grand River Valley since 1972. With 175-plus acres of vines, Debonné produces over 85,000 gallons of wine each year, including many award-winning creations such as the pinot grigio and unoaked chardonnay.

“We are the largest grower of grapes in the state of Ohio, which makes our products somewhat unique,” says owner Tony Debevc Jr. “It’s because of the soil in our area and the climate here on the south shore of Lake Erie; that’s what makes our wines

so unique and different from other parts of the world.”

Venturing through just a handful of this region’s wineries can be a full-day affair, so end your trip with an overnight at nearby Standing Rock Farms. Spanning a total of 350 acres, the property contains nine renovated cabins available for rent as well as a variety of on-site activities. The property contains a 6-acre, catch-and-release fishing lake, hiking trails, and a farm with 25 acres of commercial flower fields and a herd of Scottish Highland cattle that guests can visit at their leisure.

WHEN YOU GO

For more information about these and other destinations in Lake County, visit tourlakecounty.com.

Debonné Vineyards debonne.com

Etc. on Erie facebook.com/etc.on.erie

Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park lakemetroparks.com

Headlands Beach State Park ohiodnr.gov

South River Vineyard southrivervineyard.com

Standing Rock Farms standingrockfarms.com

Tricky Tortoise Brewing Co. trickytortoisebrewingcompany.com

The Yard on 3rd theyardon3rd.com

Yogi’s Closet yogisclosetboutique.com

A WINE FOR EVERY PALATE

STANDING ROCK FARMS

COLUMBUS

Summer in our capital city means access to many free-to-visit destinations and events, from music and movies to art museums to a wealth of public parks. By Emma Shinker

TOPIARY PARK

COLUMBUS

Art & Museums

Experiencing Columbus’ art scene can be done without spending a dime. The Wexner Center for the Arts, for example, has galleries and public programs that are free to visit year-round. From June 1 through Aug. 21, visitors can see artist Jonas N.T. Becker’s “A Hole is not a Void.” The exhibition includes prints, photographs, sculptures and two short films that explore issues of land, labor and environmental injustice in Appalachia.

Also on view, from June 1 to Aug. 21, is Tanya Lukin Linklater’s “Inner blades of grass.” Fusing visual and performing arts, the exhibition is inspired by Linklater’s Indigenous heritage and features sculpture, prints and improvisational open dance rehearsals.

“The cool thing about the Wex is that there’s always something new on view,” says Emily Haidet, curator of public programs. “You may have been here a few months ago when there was one exhibition, and then you decide to come a couple months from now and it looks completely

different because we’re highlighting new artists, we’re featuring new work — it’s always changing.”

The Wex also hosts a variety of free programs and film screenings, so keep an eye on the museum’s website for updates. Staffers at parking services will even provide a discounted, $2 parking validation; just stop by their desk on your way into the museum.

The free museum experiences in our capital city go beyond The Wex. The Billy

Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum, also on the campus of Ohio State University, has exhibitions curated from the largest collection of cartoon and comic-related materials in the world. The Ohio Craft Museum opens its doors for travelers to view its permanent collection of works organized by medium, from clay to glass to fiber. And don’t forget about the Columbus Museum of Art, which features free admission to its permanent-collection galleries on Sundays.

FASHION, FOOD, FUN. FIND IT AT EASTON.

Offering more than 250+ premier local and national retail, entertainment, and dining experiences.

COMING SOON

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ALLBIRDS • ALO • ANTHROPOLOGIE • ARITZIA • BUCK MASON • BRASSICA • CLEAN ORIGIN • CRIMSON • DR. MARTENS FORBIDDEN ROOT • GUCCI • INDOCHINO • IVAN KANE’S FORTY DEUCE • JO MALONE LONDON • KENDRA SCOTT

LEGOLAND • LEVI’S • LOUIS VUITTON • MACY’S • NORDSTROM • PARACHUTE • PBR COWBOY BAR + SMOKEHOUSE

PSYCHO BUNNY • RH COLUMBUS, THE GALLERY AT EASTON TOWN CENTER • SEPHORA • THE ESCAPE GAME TORY BURCH • TIFFANY & CO. • TRUE FOOD KITCHEN • VANS • WARBY PARKER • ZARA

MARION

COLUMBUS

Music & Movies

Columbus boasts an impressive lineup of free movie nights and concerts. Returning this year to the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons is a free, family-friendly movie series that features animated favorites such as “The Secret Life of Pets” (June 21), “Ratatouille” (July 12) and “Coco” (Sept. 7). All movies also include free popcorn while supplies last, and attendees are welcome to bring blankets and chairs. For grown-ups, they also host a new free series called Sunset Cinema, in partnership with CAPA, which takes place every Thursday in September and includes a happy hour prior to the film screening.

“It’s a great place to watch a movie under the stars, with the downtown skyline surrounding you,” says Ashley Myers, director of Columbus Commons. She also notes the abundant parking near the location.

Free movie nights will also take place at Topiary Park this summer, with monthly showings from May to October including “Rent” (June 28), “National Treasure” (July 26) and “Barbie” (Aug. 23). Movies begin at 9 p.m. or sunset, and those who arrive an hour early can enjoy trivia, games and food trucks.

For fans of live music, Columbus Commons also hosts concerts, including the Local + Live series. The five themed performances are free to attend and take place on Thursday evenings throughout August. The series kicks off with a Throwback Thursday tribute to The Beatles and a special performance by the East High School Marching Band on Aug. 1.

Grandview Heights Public Library’s summer concert also returns this summer. The 38th annual Music on the Lawn series kicks off in July and runs through August on the library’s new outdoor stage.

Parks and Nature

Those searching for a slice of nature can also find it in our capital city, from an extensive roster of Metro Parks to one of the largest public rose gardens in the country.

With five themed gardens spread across 13 acres, the Columbus Park of Roses is a beautiful place to spend a summer day. True to its name, the park contains a Formal Rose Garden with 8,000 rosebushes and 350 varieties of flowers, as well as a Heritage Rose Garden brimming with garden rose varieties that were commonly grown prior to 1867. The rose gardens are joined by

Movie night at Columbus Commons returns this summer (top). Columbus’ Park of Roses offers beautiful gardens to explore (above).

Festivals Free

Plan your visit around these events happening this summer.

COLUMBUS ARTS FESTIVAL

JUNE 7–9

This annual event featuring over 250 visual artists and four stages of entertainment returns to the downtown riverfront along the Scioto Mile. The festival features artist tents, caricaturists, face painters and local food vendors. columbusartsfestival.org

COLUMBUS BOOK FESTIVAL

JULY 13–14

Calling all bookworms, this two-day festival brings over 200 authors to downtown’s historic main library for panels, author talks and book signings. When attendees are done inside, they can head outside where vendors and entertainment await. columbusbookfestival.org

JAZZ AND RIB FEST

JULY 19–21

Savor great music and food galore during this festival at Bicentennial and West Bank parks that features 17 barbecue vendors as well as jazz acts such as Chris Botti, Stephanie Mills, Norman Brown and The Soul Rebels. hotribscooljazz.org

MAIN LIBRARY / 96 S. GRANT AVE. & TOPIARY PARK

BY Saturday, July 13 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday, July 14 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

columbusbookfestival.org

Discover the Magic of HEISEY GLASS!

Discover the industry, artistry and remarkable history of one of America’s legendary glassware producers.

The National Heisey Glass Museum 169 West Church Street, Newark, Ohio 43055 (740) 345-2932

The National Heisey Glass Museum in Newark, Ohio features 8,500 pieces of elegant Heisey Glass. Afterwards, visit our glass shop and purchase a piece of history to take home for your very own! WWW.HEISEYMUSEUM.ORG HEISEY GLASS SHOW and SALE: Saturday, June 13 2024 11 to 3 The Skylight, 85 E. Main Street, Newark, OH

COLUMBUS

the Perennial Garden, Herb Garden and Backyard Garden, the latter of which contains a variety of common plants to inspire visitors to cultivate their own gardens.

Nancy Walsh, development officer for the Columbus Park of Roses Foundation, emphasizes that it “is a garden for all seasons,” from the first fragrant blooms of the Heritage Rose Garden in mid-June to the Formal Rose Garden’s second bloom in September.

“One section of the garden might be more beautiful one month, and then the next month, the beauty is more in the next garden,” she says. “But to me, the whole thing is [always beautiful].”

The Park of Roses is located within Whetstone Park, which also has a playground, fishing pond, picnic tables and more to make an afternoon out of the trip.

In the heart of downtown, visitors can admire a living re-creation of artist Georges Seurat’s 1884 painting, “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte” at the Topiary Park. Local artist James Mason created the garden in

1989 at what was formerly known as Deaf School Park.

Nearby at Scioto Audubon Metro Park, adventurers can tackle the climbing wall, walk along the Scioto River and learn about local birds at the Grange Insurance Audubon Center. Visitors to Quarry Trails Metro Park can participate in free kayak, canoe and stand-up paddleboard programs (check website for dates), ride the mountain bike course and check out the park’s waterfall.

WHEN YOU GO

For more information about these and other destinations in Columbus, visit experiencecolumbus.com.

Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum library.osu.edu/biclm

Columbus Commons columbuscommons.org

Columbus Museum of Art columbusmuseum.org

Ohio Craft Museum ohiocraft.org

Quarry Trails Metro Park metroparks.net

Scioto Audubon Metro Park metroparks.net

Topiary Park columbus.gov

Wexner Center for the Arts wexarts.org

Visitors to Quarry Trails Metro Park can attend paddling programs, hit the mountain bike trail and check out a waterfall (above).

There’s always something exciting happening in Hilliard! Time your visit to check out events like the Sip & Shops, Celebration at the Station, and Freedom Fest featuring country duo Big & Rich, or explore local businesses and eateries at your own pace. See for yourself what makes this welcoming community special.

Celebration at the Station

Hop the Shops

Sip & Shop

Once the site of a train station, Old Hilliard is once again a lively hub of activity and a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. That festive community vibe is present today with an eclectic collection of shops and eateries, plus a full calendar of events all-year round — including Destination Hilliard’s Sip & Shops.

Downtown Hilliard offers boutique shopping all year round. Check out unique furniture pieces made by Ohio crafters, stunning home décor, boutique fashions for men and women, and healthy living goods at The Shoppes by Westwood’s MAK Home Furnishings, The Urban Market, Birch Tree Home, and alive614. Snag comfy and stylish women’s fashions in sizes small through 3X at The Happy Closet Boutique. Pay a visit to Brewing Intuition for organic herbs and teas, crystals, and other whimsical gifts. Pick out a floral arrangement or a thoughtful gift of candy, books, candles, or holiday décor for a special occasion at Hilliard Floral Design. Dive into magical, outrageous, and adventure-filled worlds at Packrat Comics, loaded with colorful comics, graphic novels, collectibles, and more.

Celebrate Christmas in July in Downtown Hilliard on July 27. Businesses will host family-friendly activities in the morning, and a new sip and shop event will be featured later in the day. Much like December’s Sip & Shop, the event features live entertainment, great deals, and unique gifts from local merchants. Plus, you can chow down on scrumptious small plates. Come back to sip on seasonal cocktails in December when Sip, Shop & Stroll returns for its third year — you can take them to go thanks to Hilliard’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA)

Don’t forget to pick up a Shop

Local Passport at a participating business or download one from DestinationHilliard.org. Fill your passport as you visit hometown shops and eateries to earn special prizes and raffle entries. Many shops will even be punching passports in the days leading up to the events.

Coffee Connections

Urban Market

MAK Home Furnishings

Unwind & Dine

Come for a meal and stay a while since Hilliard’s DORA operates daily from noon to 9 p.m. Among the eateries within the DORA boundaries is Starliner Diner, a local favorite featuring Cuban cuisine — don’t miss the breakfast burritos and plantains with shareable salsa dressing. Next door, HillGarten is a German-leaning restaurant that offers up hearty bratwursts and locally brewed beers year-round. Enjoy the beautifully decorated heated tent or rent a heated “snow globe” dining igloo during the colder months. In the heart of Center Street Market, try some house-made brews at Crooked Can Brewing Company among a variety of quick eateries with options to satisfy any craving, and stroll down Franklin Street to feast on tasty tacos and margaritas at Yabo’s Tacos. If you’re looking for barbecue, Legacy Smokehouse brings a bit of Texas to central Ohio with brisket, pulled pork, and more. Then, head upstairs to the bourbon bar for a craft cocktail or a bourbon slushy. Sexton’s Pizza and their pies quickly rose to Hilliard fame after receiving an 8.1 rating from Dave Portnoy’s “One Bite Pizza Reviews.” Teas Your Spirits, a new arrival to Downtown Hilliard, offers specialty teas as well as botanical and herbal fusions you can enjoy at home. Gather a group of friends and savor a classic or seasonal coffee paired with a breakfast sandwich at Coffee Connections on Main Street.

TOP: Sip on local craft beer at Crooked Can Brewing Company. BOTTOM: Feast on smoked meat and a variety of sides at Legacy Smokehouse.

Legacy Smokehouse

Celebration at the Station

Upcoming Events

From family-friendly fun to festive celebrations, Hilliard has a wide variety of events to keep the fun going all year long.

Thursdays beginning June 6 • The City of Hilliard closes Main Street in Downtown Hilliard for an opportunity to enjoy live music, dining, and shopping.

Freedom Fest

July 4 • On Thursday, July 4, Hilliard’s Freedom Fest is back at Roger A. Reynolds Municipal Park. This popular patriotic celebration is complete with live music by American country music duo Big & Rich, food trucks, a Kids Zone, chalk art, fireworks, and an Independence Day parade hosted by the Franklin County Agricultural Society.

Franklin County Fair

July 15–21 • Farm animals, magic, music, amusement rides, the Cincinnati Circus, and more provide entertainment for the entire family.

Christmas in July Sip, Shop & Stroll

July 27 • Get in the holiday spirit early at the Christmas in July-themed Sip, Shop & Stroll in Downtown Hilliard. Enjoy family events in the morning, and the fun continues with the Sip & Shop in the afternoon.

Columbus Food Truck Festival — Hilliard Edition

Aug. 17 • Located at the Franklin County Fairgrounds, the festival showcases flavors and fare of over 50 gourmet food trucks from Ohio and across the Midwest. Beyond cuisine, the festival also includes over two dozen artisans, a full lineup of live music throughout the day, and the Columbus Vintage Exchange.

For the Love of Hilliard

Sept. 7 • Experience the best of Hilliard with dining, art, music, and shopping, complete with vendor pop-ups and special deals from local businesses. Fill our your passport for a chance to win an ultimate Hilliard prize!

Columbus Coffee Festival

Oct. 5–6 • The 9th annual Columbus Coffee Festival is finding a new home at the Franklin County Fairgrounds this year! Sample coffees from over 40 roasters and tea vendors throughout the Midwest, accompanied by live music and poetry readings, craft vendors, and food trucks. Take home a collectable mug as a souvenir.

Music to Your Ears

Music fills the streets of Hilliard. From Beef ‘O’ Brady’s and Ten Pin Alley to Crooked Can, HillGarten, and Hilliard’s Station Park, you can always find a place to enjoy live music. Teen Open Mic night, occurring the second Tuesday of every month at Coffee Connections on Main Street, has also become a local favorite event where you can listen to young musicians, lyricists, and poets share their art. Scan the QR code for the full calendar of live music offerings.

Freedom Fest

DAYTON

Whether you’re looking to plan a visit around summer events, aviation history or travel-worthy restaurants, here are ideas for building your trip to this storied city. By Damaine Vonada

DAYTON

Festivals & Events

Brothers Orville and Wilbur Wright not only invented the airplane but also launched the world’s first flying school and airplane factory in Dayton. The city’s Birthplace of Aviation heritage is unsurpassed, and the annual air show at Dayton International Airport ranks among the oldest and most respected exhibitions of aviation skills and thrills.

“Dayton is known as a flagship show for both performers and spectators,” says Kevin Franklin, executive director of the CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show, which happens this year June 22 and 23. “It’s always an impressive and exciting experience that builds enthusiasm for aviation.”

While the Air Show attracts upwards of 82,000 people from around the globe, 2024 promises to be bigger and better than ever because the event is celebrating its 50th anniversary with an impressive lineup of military and civilian acts. Its headliner is the United States Navy Blue Angels, an iconic squadron that smokes the sky with precision aerobatic maneuvers in supersonic F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets. Other featured performances include the high-flying U.S. Air Force F-16 Viper Demonstration Team; the elite skydiving soldiers of the U.S. Army Golden Knights; and Tora! Tora! Tora!, an

WHEN YOU GO

For more information about events and destinations in the Dayton area, visit daytoncvb.com.

FESTIVALS & EVENTS

CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show daytonairshow.com

United Irish of Dayton Celtic Festival daytoncelticfestival.com

Germanfest Picnic germanfestdayton.com

Art on the Commons playkettering.org

explosively realistic reenactment of the Pearl Harbor attack by World War II warbirds. Plus, the show boasts a decidedly Dayton attraction: a replica of the first airplane manufactured at the Wright brothers’ factory — the 1910 Wright “B” Flyer.

Heritage celebration events are also a hallmark of summer in Dayton. From Irish jigs and Highland bagpipes to Welsh cakes and a Parade of Kilts, the United Irish of Dayton Celtic Festival (July 26-28) celebrates all things Celtic at RiverScape MetroPark. Later in the season, savor homemade schnitzel, drink a beer and delight in the Victorian houses and rich heritage of the city’s St. Anne’s Hill Historic District during the Germanfest Picnic (Aug. 9-11).

The Dayton area’s favorite fine arts and crafts festival, Art on the Commons (Aug. 11) showcases works by 100 top artists from across the country at a picturesque neighborhood park. For those who love music, the region has a range of options. Bring a chair, bring a friend, but never buy tickets for the free outdoor concerts presented at Levitt Pavilion Dayton. Check out Lyle Lovett, Travis Tritt, Alice Cooper, Norah Jones and other nationally touring artists at Rose Music Center in Huber Heights, or visit Fraze Pavilion in Kettering to see Ringo Starr and others this season.

Levitt Pavilion Dayton levittdayton.org

Rose Music Center

rosemusiccenter.com

Fraze Pavilion fraze.com

DINING

The Pine Club thepineclub.com

Est! Est!! Est!!! estestestdayton.com

Manna mannauptown.com

El Meson elmeson.net

ATTRACTIONS

Aviation Trail aviationtrailinc.org

Dayton Dragons Baseball milb.com/dayton

Dayton Art Institute daytonartinstitute.org

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery boonshoft.org

The CenterPoint Energy Dayton Air Show returns June 22 and 23 (above). The United Irish of Dayton Celtic Festival is set for July 26 through 28 (right).

DAYTON

Dining Finds

Nationally acclaimed and locally beloved, The Pine Club is a classic American steakhouse that’s legendary for both its old-school atmosphere and superb house-cut meats.

“People constantly tell us that our steaks are the best they’ve ever had,” says manager Karen Watkins.

With its cozy red booths, retro chrome barstools and knotty-pine paneling, the restaurant’s decor has remained virtually unchanged since it opened in 1947. So has its menu of timeless dinner fare — think shrimp cocktail, sauteed mushrooms and asparagus with hollandaise. The Pine Club’s famous stewed tomatoes perfectly complement a filet mignon or porterhouse, while the Red & Bleu French dressing with cheese is a house favorite that elevates any salad.

Since The Pine Club doesn’t accept credit cards, bring cash or a check. It also never takes reservations. In fact, the firstcome, first-served policy is so entrenched that even President George Bush and his

wife, Barbara, had to wait their turn for a table.

Ensconced in downtown Dayton’s historic Arcade complex, Est! Est!! Est!!! has a casually modern interior and classic Italian food. Its homemade pizzas are baked in an imported brick oven, and the street-corner patio is a perfect spot for enjoying a Rosemary Old Fashioned, a customer favorite made with Woodford bourbon.

Elegance meets originality at Manna, a sophisticated suburban spot in Centerville

where plush banquettes and sparkling chandeliers set the stage for a singular culinary experience featuring classic French and Peruvian dishes. The eclectic cocktail selection includes a refreshing Watermelon Cosmo and the handsome patio provides alfresco dining.

The Pine Club is a landmark Dayton restaurant (above). The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery offers three different experiences under one roof (opposite page).

The Perfect Blend of

Drawing on their Colombian roots and zest for experiencing international cultures and cuisine, the Castro family created one of Dayton’s largest — and certainly most colorful — restaurants. El Meson specializes in Latin American dishes like its signature Chilean salmon stack, and its outdoor dining area has an oven specially designed for baking Argentinian empanadas.

Attractions

Explore Dayton’s history of flight along the Aviation Trail. This self-guided driving tour highlights Ohio’s incomparable aerospace legacy, and its far-reaching array of stops delivers a unique adventure that extends from Dayton to the moon.

“We have 60 different sites ranging from nationally known destinations to a backyard where the first emergency freefall parachute jump ended,” says Aviation Trail president Stephen Brown.

Begin the trail at the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park, home to the Aviation Trail Visitor Center, where you’ll find maps and information. Visit the Wright Cycle Co., where the Wright

Brothers first applied their knowledge of building bicycles to building airplanes. Then, check out other must-sees like the world’s first practical airplane — the 1905 Wright Flyer III — at Carillon Historical Park; the Memphis Belle and presidential airplanes at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force; and the Armstrong Air & Space Museum, where exhibits salute Ohioan Neil Armstrong’s history-making walk on the moon.

While you’re in town, spend an evening with the family at a Dayton Dragons baseball game. The Cincinnati Reds farm team set a record for consecutive home-game sellouts and have produced major leaguers such as Joey Votto and Jay Bruce. Day Air Ballpark delivers all-star fun, from letting kids run the bases to fireworks following night games.

Another standout attraction in the city is the Dayton Art Institute. When it opened in 1919, the institution gave the city a masterpiece of Italian Renaissance architecture. Today, the museum’s collections range from the ancient to the avant-garde, but its ever-popular first acquisition — Harriet Whitney Frishmuth’s “Joy of the

Waters” sculpture — is still displayed in the American wing.

Brimming with fun, educational activities, the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery combines three different experiences: a children’s museum, a zoo and a science and technology center into one family-friendly destination. Touch a starfish, learn about the night sky’s constellations and observe paleontologists reconstructing the skeleton of a hadrosaur.

CRAFTING TRUTH TO POWER

Exceptional craft beer served in an artistic and mindful environment.

BARREL ROOM

Things to Do on a 7

We all have experienced your typical beach day – lounge by the shore, toes in the sand, kids build sand castles, splash in the water to cool off, and have an all-around enjoyable and relaxing day by the lake. But there are so many different and fun ways to enjoy our beaches. What else can you do at a Shores & Islands Ohio beach? Here we break down some other beach options and where you can enjoy the fun!

Fun and Games

While building sandcastles can be a blast, a bit of friendly competition can add a spark of fun to your day. At Nickle Plate Beach in Huron there are sand volleyball courts, permanent corn hole boards, and ping-pong tables (rent bean bags and paddles from the Paddle Shack, or bring your own.) Paddle Shack also rents active group games such as Spikeball, Kan-Jam, Ladder Golf, Giant Yard Pong, beach darts, sports balls, and more. At Cedar Point Beach, from July 19-August 18, 2024 enjoy nightly activities as part of Boardwalk Nights. When the sun goes down, the Cedar Point Beach and The Boardwalk area of the park electrify with larger-than-life entertainment, over-the-top food and drink, games for the entire family, music and dancing, lights and sounds that inspire the best summertime dance moves, and more.

Reel in the Big One

Or, tell tall tales about “the one that got away.” There are several local beach areas where fishing from shore is encouraged and many with dedicated fishing piers. So, grab some bait and cast off. Beaches with fishing piers include Catawba Island State Park, Kelleys Island State Park, Mazurik Access, South Bass Island State Park, Lions Park, and Nokomis Park. Visitors can even borrow fishing poles and gear from the Ritter Library in Vermilion and then head to Main Street Beach to try their hand at making a big catch.

Hunt for Treasure

Lake Erie’s greatest treasure, besides yellow perch and walleye, is beach glass. Sometimes known as sea glass, beach glass hunters especially enjoy hitting the beach in search of rare, weathered glass washed ashore by the lake current. Treasure-seekers often hit these beaches after a storm or particularly windy day. In addition to glass, hunters look out for marbles, pottery pieces, shells, and lucky stones (the ear bone of the freshwater drum, or sheephead fish). Beaches known as hot spots for glass hunting include Magee Marsh, Scheeff East Point, and North Pond State Nature Preserve.

Take a Hike

Many beaches are in state parks or nature areas which feature miles of hiking trails. Or, you can take a nice gentle walk on a paved path or boardwalk nearby or leading to the beach. East Harbor State Park offers plenty of hiking and biking trails throughout its expansive park, many adjacent to the beach. Sherod Park and Lakeside Beach also offer paved walking trails near the beach. Sometimes, the reward of a good hike can be the views. If you want a nice walk with a payoff of a beautiful, secluded (non-swimming) beach area, consider Sheldon Marsh or North Pond.

Kiddie Paradise

What is more awesome for a kiddo then an amazing playground to climb and play on, accompanied by miles of sand box for digging and building? Many of the area’s beaches also feature play equipment or adjacent parks which can keep little ones entertained for hours. Beaches with playgrounds/parks include Lake Front Park, Bettinger Park/Lakeside Beach, Nickel Plate Beach, Port Clinton City Beach (across from Lakeview Park), and Sherod Park.

Splash with Fido

A number of beaches offer pet-friendly areas or allow dogs on a leash. If you’ve got a pupper who loves frolicking in the waves, take that furry babe to East Harbor State Park, Wakefield MetroPark (adjacent to Main Street Beach), Kelleys Island State Park, Lake Front Park, or Port Clinton City Beach. Don’t forget to bring fresh water for drinking!

Advanced Water Play

Experienced swimmers can do the doggie paddle or float on their back, but advanced beach-goers know the fun of Lake Erie is enhanced with various watercraft rentals. Zoom around on a jet ski, paddle along the shoreline in a kayak or stand-up paddle board (some paddle boards even hold a whole group!), let the wind in your sails with a sunfish sailboat, or take a power boat out for a day on the lake. Jet ski rentals are offered at Cedar Point (North Coast Parasail) and South Bass Island State Park. Jet skis can also be rented from Bayview Watercraft Rentals and taken out to the sand bars in Sandusky Bay or customers are allowed to enjoy their private beach. Kayaks and paddle boards can be rented at Lakeside Beach, Cedar Point, Kelleys Island State Park, Nickle Plate Beach, and South Bass Island State Park. Extralarge paddle boards are offered at South Bass Island State Park and Nickle Plate. Sunfish sailboats are offered at Lakeside Beach and power boats can be rented at South Bass Island State Park or Cedar Point. Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the beach with a parasail from North Coast Parasail at Cedar Point.

With so many fun ways to make the most out of your day at the beach, shouldn’t you start planning your getaway now? Check out all of the Shores & Islands Ohio area beaches at SHORESandISLANDS.com. The lake is calling....

What’s New...

OUR SHORES

Get revved up for Top Thrill 2TM at Cedar Point

The world’s tallest and fastest triple-launch strata coaster will debut at Cedar Point Amusement Park this season, Top Thrill 2TM will feature not one, but two, 420-ft.-tall track towers. Riders will launch forward at 74 mph, racing towards the sky and up the original tower. After experiencing weightlessness, the train will “rollback” and launch in reverse, reaching speeds of 101 mph. Riders will then speed backward at a 90° angle up a new 420-ft. tower. After a second moment of weightlessness, the train then shifts into its third launch at a top speed of 120 mph, which will propel riders over the top hat tower, before descending a 270° spiral towards the finish line.

Cedar Point Sports Center debuts state-of-the-art

Cedar Point Esports facility

The new facility is a 1,000 sq. ft. gaming hall which includes 32 stations, each equipped with 24-inch, 165Hz gaming monitors and the latest hardware. Cedar Point Esports aims to establish a hub for gaming enthusiasts and competitive gamers, offering a world-class platform to develop their gaming. Cedar Point Esports will bring competitive gaming events as well as planned public programming.

Explore the Lake Erie region with a new tour company

Experience the Peninsula is coming in 2024 and will offer a customized day of fun for groups from 6 to 18 people. Adventure tours of 2-, 4-, or 6-hours are offered for ages 8 and older, 10 and older, and 21 and older. Tour options can include a variety of activities put together, as a build-your-own adventure. Examples include beach days, water recreation days, museum tours, shopping adventures, golf, and craft beverage tasting tours. Groups will travel in safety and comfort with Swig Ohio Shuttles.

New coffee and snack experiences in Marblehead

Rocky Point Winery recently added Red Bicycle Coffee to the winery. Named after the red bike that hangs over the backyard, the coffee shop features coffee, espresso, cocktails, and baked goods. A little further down the Marblehead Peninsula, the popular Marblehead Soap Company will open Hot Dogs to Go, a hot dog and soup shop, located across from the Kelleys Island Ferry dock.

20 years of winning big and supporting maritime history

The main fundraiser for the Maritime Museum of Sandusky, the Big Splash Raffle celebrates its 20th anniversary this year! This phenomenal August event features a full interactive day of lottery-style winning number drawings with major cash prizes and the chance to win automobiles, motorcycles, and more (prizes vary by year). The event also features food trucks, a beer tent, several side raffles and 50/50 drawings, and the Bash Before the Splash pre-party.

Sandusky State Theatre update

The curtain will rise again in 2024 at the region’s cultural heart, Sandusky State Theatre, reopening after being partially destroyed by a storm in mid-2020. New theatre features include an art gallery and adjacent pub, Frohman’s, named after Sandusky native and early 1900s theater producer and manager, Charles Frohman. By naming the pub in his honor, the theatre celebrates Sandusky’s influence on the performing arts. Stay tuned for exciting information about 2024-2025 performances.

Thomas Edison Birthplace addition

In memory of late Edison aficionado and local educator, Don Gfell, a capital fundraising campaign is underway to support the creation of the [Don Gfell Education Center] at the birthplace museum. Gfell loved captivating students with hands-on Edison exhibits and had amassed a priceless collection of Edison inventions. The museum hopes to display these items and interactive exhibits, including sound recording, playback, and electrical experiments. A spark of electricity is in the air.

New boutique motel opens in Sandusky

Explorer Rest & Relaxation is a haven for families and groups, offering multi-bunk rooms as well as indulgent King rooms for couples. The motel features a retro design and a sprawling outdoor space filled with fire pits and yard games, as well as a food truck park.

New RV resort opening Spring 2024

The all-new Sandusky RV Resort, operated by RVC Outdoor, features over 200 pull-through and back-in spaces, which are big-rig friendly, along with fullyfurnished family cottages. All sites include full hook-ups with Wi-Fi, and cable TV. The resort also includes pickleball courts, children’s playground, fitness room, fishing ponds, swimming pool, golf cart rentals, and a dog park.

New facility for sportsmen

A new world-class indoor shooting complex opened recently in Milan and features 25- and 100-yard shooting lanes paired with a revolutionary indoor trap and skeet shooting experience. Lake Erie Arms also offers a café, virtual firearms simulator, media room, defensive training, event space, and more. Memberships are available, but the public is welcome!

Love Conquering Trails?

Cheers! Relax & Sip

No matter what the perfect getaway to Shores & Islands Ohio looks like, you’re bound to get a thirst for local flavor. Looking for your next favorite beverage? A fun way to sample the winery and beverage scene is through the self-guided Shores & Islands Ohio Cheers Trail, featuring over 20 locations with palatepleasing craft experiences delivering a taste of the local culture and, often, the region’s agricultural history. Download our free Cheers Trail pass, then visit, check-in, and earn points for prizes yearround. We’re always in season!

Roots To Be Proud Of

Heritage pride runs deep in Shores & Islands Ohio. Go back in time and reconnect to a bygone age as you explore the Shores & Islands Ohio Heritage Trail, featuring a wide variety of the region's historical sites and museums. This trail takes you on a fascinating journey through the history of our area. Delve into the past as you uncover hidden tales, forgotten anecdotes, and remarkable events that have shaped the very fabric of our communities. Download our free Heritage Trail pass, then visit, check-in, and earn points year-round.

Fore! Head to the Shore

Did you know that throughout the region there exists secluded, peaceful adventure spots, perfect for enjoying a competitive edge? That’s right; the area is home to several beautiful and challenging golf courses! Whether you’re looking to tee off with a view of the lake, searching for a test with a course designed by the legendary Tom Fazio, or seeking local flair from a charming family-owned business, find it on the Shores & Islands Ohio Golf Trail

Download our free Golf Trail pass, check in and earn points for prizes.

Inspired by our Farm

Ørchard is the perfect gathering spot for both locals and visitors alike, featuring a steak and seafood restaurant, farm stand café, premium spirits chicken coop bar, private event space, and an upscale farm market with local seasonal produce, bakery, homewares, and kitchen goods, all nestled within 24 lush acres of fruit orchards, vineyards, gardens, and beehives.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, 7 days a week.

Always in Season? IT’S A SHORE THING

Immerse yourself in culture through a variety of diverse community events. Indulge in local cuisine, from upscale to casual, even dine lakeside. Take a ferry ride to a Lake Erie island, explore miles of natural beaches and trails, enjoy quaint downtowns and museums, and experience the beauty of the changing seasons in Shores & Islands Ohio

Make memories that’ll last a lifetime. Find your Lake Erie Love year-round at SHORESandISLANDS.com.

ERIE, PA WESTERN NY

Explore Presque Isle State Park, visit the Chautauqua Institution for its 150th anniversary and celebrate laughter in the hometown of a comedy legend. By Sean Eifert

ERIE, PA / WESTERN NY

Explore Presque Isle

As the only Great Lakes city in the state of Pennsylvania, Erie offers serenity and beauty for visitors looking for picturesque views, summer breezes and opportunities for exploration. One of the main attractions here is Presque Isle State Park, a 3,200-acre peninsula that juts out into Lake Erie about 4 miles west of the city center. Translated to

“almost an island” in French, Presque Isle welcomes roughly 4 million visitors each year to drive its 13 miles of roads, hike its 21 miles of trails and make a splash in the park’s 7 miles of beaches. From pontoon boats and kayaking to fishing and birding, opportunities for outdoor fun abound.

“Erie is experiencing a renaissance of sorts,” says Jon DeMarco, executive director of Presque Isle Partnership. “There’s a

WHEN YOU GO

For more information about destinations in Erie, Pennsylvania, go to visiterie.com.

Presque Isle State Park dcnr.pa.gov/stateparks

Waldameer Park & Water

World waldameer.com

Erie Zoological Society eriezoo.org

Erie Maritime Museum eriemaritimemuseum.org

lot happening, and I think the secret is just starting to get out.”

Head to the state park near the end of July to take part in Discover Presque Isle (July 22 through 28), an event that provides a new way to experience the peninsula. In addition to birding and opportunities to cast a line with the local fishing group Sons of Lake Erie, the event features a sandcastle competition, craft and food truck festivals,

a pancake breakfast and more. Visitors also have the option to take a biking or boating tour or climb to the top of the historic Presque Isle Lighthouse.

After a visit to Presque Isle, travelers should take time to explore more of what Erie has to offer, including the free-to-enter Waldameer Park & Water World, the fifth-oldest continuously operating amusement park in the nation. Other favorites include the Erie Zoological Society and the Erie Maritime Museum.

Experience the Chautauqua Institution

Forty miles east of Erie, Pennsylvania, the beauty and tranquility of New York’s Chautauqua Lake has been drawing travelers to its shores each summer for generations. Since 1874, the Chautauqua Institution has been a pillar of that experience, welcoming visitors to take part in a tradition that encourages activities focused on body, mind and spirit. These activities range from fishing and sailing to lectures by notable people to stirring live music performances.

WARM WEATHER FUN

The Chautauqua Institution hosts various family-friendly events throughout the summer as well, including the opportunity for visitors to learn more about Chautauqua through its Pillar Talks programs, where former leaders of the institution talk about four programmatic areas of focus. Guests can also tour the 140-year-old Athenaeum Hotel, built just after the founding of the institution and the Miller Edison Cottage, which belonged to inventor Thomas Edison.

“Every single day is an embarrassment of riches,” says Emily Morris, chief brand officer at the Chautauqua Institution. “You could schedule yourself to be busy from the time you opened your eyes until the time you close them at night. That’s one of the things that’s unique and special about Chautauqua.”

A trolley system is available to transport visitors to various places throughout Chautauqua County, including down to Jamestown, north to the beaches on Lake Erie or throughout Lake Erie wine country. The latter, which covers a 50-mile stretch, consists of 20 different wineries along the coast of Lake Erie, some of which are just a quick drive from Chautauqua. 1 Ames Ave., Chautauqua, New York 14722, 800/836-2787, chq.org

IN ELLICOTTVILLE, NY FOR EVERYONE

Waldameer Park & Water World in Erie, Pennsylvania (opposite page); Miller Bell Tower at New York’s Chautauqua Institution (above)

the Farm Bell Basket Barn

Come in - Browse our selection of wicker furniture, Lee Middleton Dolls, Chautauqua Tees & sweatshirts, Minnetonka moccasins, antiques, new & vintage jewelry. Our baskets make unique gifts.

We have a barn full of ways to tell someone you care.

Open 10-5 daily thru Labor Day. Call for winter hours.

5252 Rte. 430 Dewittville, NY 14728 716-386-4033 farmbell@hotmail.com

ERIE PA, WESTERN NY

Laugh It Up in Jamestown

Chautauqua County is home to a variety of communities nestled along the lake’s shoreline, but one of the most popular destinations is Jamestown, which sits about a 20-minute drive south. The city has museums, restaurants and shops, but it may be best known for its attractions and festival that celebrate the art of making people laugh.

Lucille Ball, star of the popular 1950s sitcom series “I Love Lucy,” grew up in Jamestown, and she is celebrated during the annual Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, which always takes place around her birthday in August (Aug. 1 through 4). Jamestown is also home to the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, an attraction dedicated to the stars of “I Love Lucy,” who were also a real-life couple. See props and sets from the show and learn more about the stars’ lives, careers and ongoing legacy.

When first approached by the city of Jamestown about building a museum dedicated to her, Ball advocated for a center that would showcase all of comedy, not just her contributions to the art form. That dream wasn’t realized in Ball’s lifetime, but

WHEN YOU GO

For more information about events in Jamestown and Chautauqua County, go to tourchautauqua.com.

Lucille Ball Comedy Festival comedycenter.org/festival

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum lucydesi.com

National Comedy Center comedycenter.org

Jamestown’s National Comedy Center opened in 2018, providing a state-of-the-art experience that uses technology to shape each visitor’s experience based on their personal comedy tastes.

The National Comedy Center also hosts more than 50 individual events throughout town during the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival, with past festival headliners including Jerry Seinfeld, Joan Rivers, John Mulaney, Amy Schumer and Jim Gaffigan.

“It’s a great way to spend a weekend,” says Gary Hahn, vice president of the National Comedy Center, “just laughing nonstop.”

The National Comedy Center in Jamestown celebrates laughter.

HOLIDAY VALLEY

Just an hour east of Chautauqua lies Holiday Valley, a ski resort in Ellicottville that travelers seek out for snowy slopes in the winter. But it’s also a huge draw when summer hits, with the resort having a pool, golf course, an aerial adventure park and a mountain coaster that cater to warm-weather visitors.

The Double Black Diamond golf course provides a unique challenge to even the most experienced golfer, with a long front nine and a back nine that winds through rolling hills. Sky High Adventure Park, the resort’s ropes course, takes brave visitors through 5 acres of woods and challenges those of all ages to conquer their fear of heights.

The Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster provides another thrilling experience as it whips riders along 4,805 feet of track installed around the natural curvature of the wooded landscape. In addition to the many permanent attractions, the resort also hosts special events during the summer. The most notable event is the Holiday Valley Mudslide, which is comprised of two different, muddy trail runs. 6557 Holiday Valley Rd., Ellicottville, New York 14731, 716/699-2345, holidayvalley.com

HEAD HILLS

Need a change of scenery? Head for the Hills, the Hocking Hills. You’ll find pet-friendly cabins, lodges and inns surrounded by the new colors of spring. This is the place for fresh air, sparkling waterfalls, outdoor adventures, spas, galleries, small town charm and a much needed break. Revive your mind, body and soul in the Hocking Hills, Ohio’s Natural Crown Jewels

Call or click for your free Visitor’s Guide: 1-800-Hocking | ExploreHockingHills.com

FAMILY FIELD TRIPS

When making your summer getaway plans, check out these destinations that promise plenty of fun and unique experiences for all ages.

Akron and Summit County

From the natural beauty of Ohio’s only national park to a vibrant arts scene to history and adventure around every corner, there’s an abundance of fun and family-friendly activities to discover in Greater Akron and Summit County.

The Akron Zoo is a great place to spend a day. Kids can explore the zoo’s various habitats and themed areas while learning about the animals that live there. Summertime also brings a variety of events, including wildlife spotlights and more.

The grounds at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens offer a variety of outdoor spaces to explore, each providing a unique sense of enchantment. Families can tour the property’s interior spaces as well, such as the grand Manor House, the Carriage House and the Corbin Conservatory.

Families looking to tap into the area’s history can head to Hale Farm and Village, an outdoor living-history museum that allows visitors to explore 19th-century life through the property’s 32 historic structures, craft and trade demonstrations, farm animals and interactions with reenactors.

The parks in the area invite exploration, adventure and appreciation for the natural world. Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which spans 33,000 acres between Cleveland and Akron, provides opportunities for families to go on a biking or hiking excursion together, take part in the Junior Ranger program, learn about the region’s past at the visitor center and much more. For more information, go to visitakron-summit.org.

Snook’s Dream Cars

Ohio Pawpaw Festival

The Ohio Pawpaw Festival, held annually in Albany, embraces family-friendly activities and fosters a sense of community and fun for all ages. From the welcoming atmosphere to the diverse range of engaging events, this festival offers something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the key family-friendly aspects of the festival is its emphasis on nature and outdoor activities. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Ohio’s countryside, families can explore the beauty of the region through guided nature walks, educational exhibits and outdoor workshops. Children can learn about local flora and fauna, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.

The festival also boasts a variety of interactive experiences tailored specifically for younger attendees. From arts-and-crafts stations to storytelling sessions, kids are encouraged to unleash their creativity and imagination in a safe and supportive environment. Additionally, families can enjoy live performances featuring music suitable for all ages, creating a lively and inclusive atmosphere for everyone to experience together.

The Ohio Pawpaw Festival prides itself on its commitment to wholesome, locally sourced food and beverages, ensuring that families can

indulge in delicious treats while supporting the local community. With a focus on family-friendly entertainment, education and creative culinary delights, this festival promises a memorable experience for families seeking to create lasting memories together in the heart of Ohio’s countryside. For more information, visit ohiopawpawfest.com.

Explore Cuyahoga

Dickinson Cattle Co.

Located in Belmont County, just along Interstate 70, the Dickinson Cattle Co. invites families to visit the 5,000-acre ranch that is home to more than 400 Texas longhorn cattle.

Head to Dickinson Cattle Co. this summer for one of their Longhorns Head to Tail tours, where groups of 10 or more can take a 75-minute journey through Ohio’s Appalachian foothills. Marvel at the beauty of Buelingo, Texas longhorn and African Watusi cattle herds that live just 4 miles north of Barnesville. Make sure to bring your cameras to capture moments of the young ones feeding cattle with special cow candy available for purchase. While you’re there, pick up some longhorn lean beef, jerky, beef sticks and more mouthwatering souvenirs from the Longhorns Head to Tail Store.

If you’re itching to cast a line, make a reservation and wander over to one of 11 lakes located on Dickinson’s land, which are fully stocked with fish and just waiting for you to visit. After a long day of gazing at grazing cattle or reeling in the latest catch, feast on a catered meal with longhorn burgers, brisket or prime rib. (Make sure to reach out ahead of time to get the details squared away.) Nothing beats tired kids, full stomachs and a day packed with adventure. For more information, go to visitbelmontcounty.com.

Your mobile resource for all that is great about hotel & lodging in Akron. Find, explore and book your adventure, learn about local partner experiences and take part in events. Find out more information about lodging options in Akron and Summit County online at StayInAkron.com.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Take a tour of Belmont County’s Dickinson Cattle Co., where more than 400 Texas longhorns graze.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

www.halefarm.org Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Make Cuyahoga Valley National Park your front porch with a stay at historic Stanford House. Let breathtaking scenery and nearby Brandywine Falls complement your relaxing visit. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, kayaking and more. www.forcvnp.org/stanfordhouse The City of Cuyahoga Falls

Cuyahoga Falls has something for everyone: a historic downtown, unique shops and eateries, craft breweries, and outdoor recreational opportunities for all levels. We invite you to plan your next adventure with us and see why Life is Better Here! www.cityofcf.com

Located in Northeast Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers scenic train rides through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Yet we are so much more. From elegant dinner trains to family fun activities, CVSR has an excursion for everyone. Come explore all we have to offer!

www.cvsr.org Hale Farm & Village

Join us at Hale Farm & Village, a living history museum nestled in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Explore 19thcentury life with 32 historic structures, craft demos, farm animals, and gardens. Costumed interpreters offer insights into daily farm life. Discover old favorites and new experiences.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Bowling Green

This hospitable and welcoming community in northwest Ohio has plenty to offer both visitors and locals seeking family-friendly fun. Bowling Green provides clean and affordable lodging, public art, parks and green spaces, pools and a waterpark, museums, an all-inclusive playground, shops and boutiques, popular local eateries, weekly events and festivals and more.

History buffs will find a lot to love in Bowling Green, and at Snook’s Dream Cars, kids can find something to entertain themselves too. This classic car museum contains a re-created 1940s-era gas station as well as a showroom displaying car models from the 1930s through the 1970s. There is also a collection of memorabilia that includes toy cars, coin-operated machines and games, pedal cars and more.

When it’s time for the kids to let off some steam, take them to one of Bowling Green’s many parks and green spaces. The Carter Historic Farm is a working farm and living-history attraction that invites families to explore what agricultural life looked like in the early 20th century. Kids will love seeing the farm animals as well as hiking the property’s various trails.

Make time to check out Otsego Park, Wood County’s oldest park property. The 21-acre park contains playgrounds, a river walk, boat launch, fishing spots and a beautiful view of the Maumee River. For more information, go to visitbgohio.org.

Miami County

For those seeking family-friendly fun, head to Miami County, where you’ll find a beautiful convergence of history, community and natural wonder. From vibrant city life to small-town charm, there are a variety of opportunities to explore together.

Located in Troy, the Brukner Nature Center has 6 miles of nature trails that wind through woodland, wetland and prairie, offering families the chance to search for different kinds of wildlife as they walk. After a hike, grab a pair of binoculars and head to the Tree-Top Bird Vista and try to spot birds as they rest on the feeders.

Also in Troy is the WACO Air Museum & Learning Center, where families can learn about the role that WACO played in aviation history through vintage aircraft and displays. The museum’s learning center is committed to preserving aviation’s past and to help navigate its future through hands-on teaching opportunities and engaging projects.

Head just 15 minutes north and you’ll find the Johnston Farm & Indian Agency, a 200-acre living-history site that celebrates Ohio’s heritage, ranging from the Indigenous cultures who once

called this region home to the canal era. (You can even take a canal-boat ride.) Visitors can explore the property’s museum, historic buildings and earthwork sites to gain insight into what life was like here at various moments throughout history. For more information, visit homegrowngreat.com.

Make a splash in Bowling Green this summer (opposite page). Take an authentic canal-boat ride at Johnston Farm & Indian Agency in Miami County (above).

Pennsylvania’s Columbia & Montour Counties

Nestled in central Pennsylvania, Columbia and Montour counties make up an area renowned for its rural beauty and outstanding adventure opportunities. The quaint countryside setting also offers a trove of local history and culture.

At Ricketts Glen State Park, located in the northeast corner of Columbia County, hikers can enjoy a vast network of trails that take them past more than 20 stunning waterfalls.

Head less than an hour southwest and you’ll find the Montour Preserve. With a 165-acre lake, it’s a perfect destination for fishing and boating. Outdoor enthusiasts can also appreciate the wildlife observation blinds and plenty of great hiking trails. For history buffs, a 1-acre Mahantango shale pit is open for finders-keepers fossil hunting.

Revive old memories and make new ones with the family at the free-to-enter Knoebels Amusement Resort, where kids can experience the joy of old-fashioned roller coasters. Amusement park enthusiasts from across the country come to enjoy Knoebels’ iconic wooden coasters, like the Phoenix, or newer thrill rides like Flying Turns — the world’s only wooden bobsled coaster.

For those looking to rest and renew, the counties offer plenty of lodging accommodations that are sure to make you want to extend your stay. From the blossoms of spring to the last leaves of autumn, these counties have no shortage of fairs, festivals, carnivals and parades. For more information, visit itourcolumbiamontour.com.

WHAT’S ON YOUR Summer BUCKET LIST?

Make your plans in Findlay

o Attend an Award-Winning Festival

o Try Ohio’s Best Ice Cream

o Luxuriate in an Overnight Stay

o Experience a Meal to Remember

o Visit a One-of-a-Kind Museum

o Strike a Pose along the Mural Trail

o Treat Yourself to a Shopping Spree

The opportunities for fun in Findlay are limitless. Make your summer bucket list and check off every item in picturesque Findlay, Ohio. Go to VisitFindlay.com to plan your summer adventures right now.

Connect with us!

Drive through the scenic countryside and enjoy the pastoral vistas of Columbia and Montour counties in Pennsylvania.

MARGIE

Chillicothe

As the summer sun casts its warm glow over Chillicothe, families eagerly embrace the season with a variety of activities that celebrate both the region’s rich history and its vibrant present. Nestled in the rolling hills and lush landscapes of the Appalachian foothills, Chillicothe offers a tapestry of experiences that cater to all ages and interests.

For those seeking a taste of adventure and culture, the “Tecumseh!” Outdoor Drama stands as a beacon, drawing visitors into the action-filled tale of the legendary Shawnee leader’s struggle to defend his native homelands. Set against the backdrop of Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, this immersive production brings history to life under the starlit skies.

Families can witness the awe-inspiring ancient earthworks at Hopewell Culture National Historical Park. Part of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, this is Ohio’s first and only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk within these earthen complexes that were constructed by early Native Americans over 2,000 years ago.

Downtown Chillicothe beckons with its charming array of sweet indulgences, from a quaint candy shop to artisanal bakeries serving up delectable treats that are sure to satisfy. As summer unfolds, the streets come alive with festivals and events, offering plenty of opportunities for families to create cherished memories. In Chillicothe, summer is not just a season — it’s a celebration of community, culture and the boundless joy of shared experiences. For more information, go to visitchillicotheohio.com.

Hartville

A trip to Hartville is something the entire family can enjoy. Located between Cleveland and Amish Country, Experience Hartville’s 200-acre campus offers outdoor and indoor flea market shopping, a celebrated restaurant featuring classic homestyle cooking and baked goods, and America’s largest hardware store. Regardless of your style, budget and interests, it’s worth the trip.

Begin your adventure indoors at the Hartville MarketPlace, where 3 acres of unique shopping opportunities await under one roof. For outdoor enthusiasts and bargain hunters, the large outdoor flea market (open on Monday, Thursday and Saturday) offers a range of items, including vintage and antique treasures. The farmers market that coincides with flea market days offers fresh local produce and outdoor plants.

Hartville Hardware & Lumber is a must-visit for home-improvement specialists, DIY enthusiasts and those with a passion for household projects. With an impressive footprint exceeding 305,000 square feet, Hartville Hardware proudly holds the title of America’s largest hardware store.

Indulge in homestyle cooking and freshly made delights at the Hartville Kitchen Restaurant & Bakery. With seating for over 400, the restaurant is designed

for family togetherness. Don’t miss out on a visit to the bakery for a selection of fresh-baked goods.

In addition to fantastic shops and flavorful food, Experience Hartville hosts year-round concerts, shows and family-friendly events, promising entertainment for all ages and the chance to make lasting memories with family and friends. For more information, visit experiencehartville.com.

More than buggies

Celebrate heritage and history with the family in Chillicothe (opposite page). Make a stop at Hartville MarketPlace to enjoy the outdoor flea market (above).

Savor life’s simple pleasures at the scenic wineries of Ohio Amish Country. Here, every sip of handcrafted wine is a reminder to appreciate the beautiful landscapes, local culture, and the company of good friends. Plan your trip today, and discover the perfect pour to delight your senses.

Living life simply. Holmes County & beyond.

Toast to tradition in Ohio Amish Country

Defiance

Escape the ordinary and embark on unforgettable adventures in Defiance. Take the family to explore the awe-inspiring landscapes of Independence Dam State Park, Oxbow Lake and the Penny Nature Center, where nature’s beauty can be found at every turn. Unleash your inner adventurer with thrilling outdoor activities like hiking, fishing and picnicking.

Discover the rich history of Defiance as you journey through its storied past. Multiple story walks highlight a unique blend of literary adventure and outdoor exploration. Nestled within the area’s picturesque parks and nature trails, you will find innovative installations that combine the joys of reading with the beauty of nature. As you stroll along designated paths, you will encounter pages from beloved children’s books placed at intervals throughout the walk.

Defiance also offers an array of aquatic fun for the family with its splash parks and pools. Defiance Splash Park features fountains, sprayers and water jets, and entertainment for children of all ages. Located within the expansive Kingsbury Park, the Kingsbury Pool offers a refreshing retreat from the summer heat. Whether you’re zooming down thrilling water slides or simply wading in the shallows, this outdoor swimming facility has something for everyone.

Create memories that will last a lifetime on a family field trip to Defiance. Book your adventure today and unlock endless possibilities for fun, learning and togetherness. For more information, go to visitdefianceohio.com.

Medina County located in Northeast Ohio is packed with postcard-perfect communities where everyone feels like they are home. Each town is filled with one-of-a-kind attractions, timeless shopping experiences, and adventures for both the indoor and outdoor enthusiasts. Top this off with the world’s melting pot of flavors, from our variety of tantalizing dining options to our array of spirits, you will find yourself transported every meal!

What is stopping you from booking your next trip to Medina County?

Timeless Charm with a Vibrant Spirit

Greater Parkersburg, West Virginia

West Virginia’s Greater Parkersburg area is a fantastic family destination. Excitement abounds at attractions like Discovery World on Market, a new state-of-the-art children’s museum dedicated to fun and adventure for little learners. Discovery World houses 30,000 square feet of interactive, STEAM-focused exhibits, perfect for kids ages 1 through 10.

Take an unforgettable sternwheel riverboat ride down the Ohio River and to beautiful Blennerhassett Island State Park. While there, you can tour the reconstructed Blennerhassett Mansion or explore the island from the comfort of a horse-drawn wagon pulled by draft horses. Tour guides will accompany you on your trip to share information about the sites along the way.

If your family enjoys outdoor adventure, North Bend State Park is just a short drive east from Parkersburg. You can book a cozy stay at the park’s recently renovated lodge or cabins, or if you prefer roughing it in the great outdoors, rent a site in the well-maintained campgrounds. North Bend offers outdoor experiences like hiking, kayaking on the lake, riding bikes on the gentle grade of the North

VOTED BEST DESTINATION

Bend Rail Trail or participating in the family-friendly programs provided by park staff. With a variety of quality lodging options and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets, everything you need to plan and enjoy a memorable multiday family getaway can be found in Greater Parkersburg. For more information, visit greaterparkersburg.com.

Cool off at the Kingsbury Pool in Defiance (opposite page). Bike the North Bend Rail Trail in Greater Parkersburg (above).

Hocking Hills

The Hocking Hills region is known for its beautiful natural landscapes and exciting recreational opportunities, making it a wonderful place for fun in the great outdoors.

The Hocking Hills Butterfly Trail is a perfect place to start your journey. There are a total of 14 stops along the way, where kids can learn more about different butterfly species. They can track their progress along the trail with a passport and get creative with a butterfly coloring book.

When it’s time for kid-friendly hikes, families can walk the paved trail to Ash Cave. The entire trail spans half a mile, which makes it perfect for tiny travelers. Similarly, the Lower Trail at Conkles Hollow is a paved, three-quarter-mile route.

When you visit the area, be sure to pick up a kids activity packet at the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. It contains a variety of fun projects that can be completed while hiking in the park or in your own backyard.

Also be sure to head to downtown Logan to visit the Hocking Hills Children’s Museum. Opened in 2024, this interactive destination inspires kids to learn, discover and explore. Littles ones can play in the sand pit, go “fishing” for pond critters, experiment with play machinery and more. For the youngest guests, there’s also a soft play area called The Honeycombs. For more information visit explorehockinghills.com.

Lehman’s

Located in Kidron, Lehman’s is a one-of-a-kind retail store selling a range of non-electric items that help people embrace a simpler way of living. The store was founded by the late Jay Lehman in 1955 to serve the local Amish community. Since then, the business has grown into a tourist destination that promises fun for the whole family.

At Lehman’s, you can find retro toys and games for the little ones or check out the pantry fully stocked with locally made sweets and treats. There’s also gardening tools and supplies, oil lamps and candles, all-natural cleaning products and much more. The store’s housewares department has also recently been remodeled and contains even more of the things you need to bake, cook and preserve your food.

Adjacent to the store, visitors will find the newly unveiled Tiny House, a 200-square-foot home that represents simple, homestead-style living. The house is filled with practical touches such as upcycled furniture, a rain barrel and a homestead garden.

Lehman’s also hosts family-friendly events almost every weekend throughout the year, including the popular Christmas in July event, happening this year on July 13.

A visit to Lehman’s is like going to a museum and going shopping at the same time, and there is something for everyone to enjoy, from the young to the young at heart. For more information, visit lehmans.com.

(above). Go for a family hike in the Hocking Hills to spots like Upper Falls at Old Man’s Cave (left).

HARTVILLE: LAURA WATILO BLAKE

Huntington, West Virginia

Huntington, West Virginia, is redefining fun in Cabell and Wayne counties with the Huntington Area Fun Pass, which offers discounts to a select number of the area’s best attractions.

Since its founding in 1996, Heritage Farm has celebrated the ingenuity of the Appalachian region. In that spirit, the farm has new adventure experiences that promise fun for the whole family. There is the TalithaKoum, a four-story aerial adventure course built on the mountain overlooking the village; Red Tail Racers, a dual zip-lining course; and Tree Rock Challenge, a multi-level course suitable for all ages.

The 26-acre Camden Park opened in 1903 and is one of only 13 trolley parks in the United States. It is West Virginia’s only amusement park and home to more than 30 rides and attractions, including the iconic Big Dipper, a traditional wooden roller coaster, as well as several other vintage rides loved by both kids and adults.

If your family’s tastes lean more toward arts and culture, take advantage of the Huntington Area Fun Pass for discounted admission to the Huntington Museum of Art, a world-class art museum.

Beech Fork State Park is another great place for relaxation or adventure. The 3,144-acre park offers hundreds of campsites, miles of hiking trails and plenty of exciting activities. The sprawling lake has 31 miles of shoreline where you can cast a line. For more information, go to visithuntingtonwv.org.

spark curiousitheir

Canton

Family fun is found around every corner in Canton this season. Be sure to stop by the Pro Football Hall of Fame for the Class of 2024 Enshrinement and Festival. Enshrinement weekend kicks off on Aug. 1 and includes events like the Grand Parade and Balloon Classic. The hall is also beginning a Hall of Famer Residency Program this season, which will bring various Hall of Famers to town each week through November to engage with museum guests and interact with the community.

The football fun doesn’t end there, with the NFL Flag Championships coming to town July 19 through 21. This inaugural championship game features over 280 youth NFL Flag regional winners from 32 clubs across the country. Bring the whole family to town on July 26 and 27 for the Women’s Football Alliance National Championship. This league is the world’s longest-running competitive women’s tackle football league and is made up of more than 60 teams.

Outdoor movie nights at Play Action Plaza return to Hall of Fame Village this summer with free, family-friendly sports-themed films on Thursdays from June 13 to July 25. Free outdoor movies will also be shown during the Centennial Plaza Summer Movie series in downtown Canton on Wednesdays between June 5 and Aug. 13, where you can enjoy family favorites like “Elemental” and “Cars.” For more information, go to visitcanton.com.

Take a ride at West Virginia’s only amusement park (opposite page). Learn about legends at the Pro Football Hall of Fame (above).

Another Time

From exploring historic neighborhoods to famous stories of intrigue, you can discover the past right here in Greater Parkersburg.

Ride the Island Belle sternwheeler down the Ohio River to Blennerhassett Island and tour the reconstructed mansion. Tour Victorian-era homes within the Julia-Ann Square Historic District, the state’s largest and oldest residential historic district. Visit one of America’s finest and most complete historic mansions at Henderson Hall and learn how oil and gas fueled the industrial revolution at the Oil & Gas Museum

Ohio Amish Country

Heirloom experiences are built in Ohio Amish Country. For generations, families have visited Ohio Amish Country and Holmes County to create lasting memories while learning about a simpler way of life. There is no better place to learn about Amish culture than Behalt — also known as the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center — where a 265-foot cyclorama tells the story of the Amish, from the Christian Reformation to today.

Children of all ages can enjoy buggy or wagon rides, observe life on the farm and sample traditional sweets and homemade bakery items at Yoder’s Amish Home, Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery or the Farm at Walnut Creek.

Families can try their hand at hatchet throwing or ninja stars at The Hatchet Club. (Soft targets are provided for young ones.) For more family fun, Country Acres in Berlin offers an 18-hole mini golf adventure that can be topped off with ice cream or a pretzel. Cabin Creek Golf offers batting cages, a driving range and sand volleyball.

A backroads tour of the area led by a local guide or taken independently offers a deeper glimpse into the old-fashioned values and family-centered way of life in this beautiful region of Ohio. Family-friendly entertainment and lodging and dining options complete a multi-generational educational journey in Ohio Amish Country. For more information, go to visitamishcountry.com.

Play a round of mini golf at Country Acres in Berlin (above). Visit Atwood and Tappan Lake parks for outdoor fun (opposite page).

Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District

One of the best ways to experience the wonders and respite of nature is through camping. The Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District’s many lake-based campgrounds offer a unique landscape to explore, whether you want to get away for a night or an entire season.

For those who want to take the family out camping for the weekend, but don’t own a camper or RV, MWCD has you covered at Atwood and Tappan Lake parks. Each park features two RVs available for rent on campsites featuring full electrical hookups and plenty of amenities to make every stay comfortable. Guests must book for a minimum of two nights, and each RV includes a private bedroom with a queen bed, bunk beds and a dinette table as well as a TV, coffee pot, outdoor kitchen and cookware. To complete the stay, guests need only bring items such as linens, firewood, outdoor seating, coffee filters, dish soap and paper towels.

Once you get settled in, enjoy on-the-water adventures such as kayaking, or head to the marina to rent a boat for fishing. Take a hike along the well-maintained trails at each park, and afterward, head to one of the swimming beaches for a dip in the lake. Be sure to check out activities and events during your stay too, including guided kayak tours, nature hikes and kids camps. For more information and to make a reservation, visit mwcd.org.

2024

With a vibrant arts scene, rich history, outdoor recreation and other entertaining attractions, Huntington is fun for everyone. Get your free 2023 Fun Pass for a 20% discount at some of the area’s best attractions good through October. Scan below or visit our website to sign up.

Representing Cabell & Wayne Counties, West Virginia

Representing Cabell & Wayne Counties, West Virginia

Akron Zoo

Take the family for a walk on the wild side this summer at the Akron Zoo, where various family-friendly events are in store for the season. Catch the end of Wildlife Illuminated, the new nighttime event running through June 1 that uses art and light to showcase the animals in a new way.

Looking for a way to get outside with the family on Father’s Day? Head to the zoo on June 16 when fathers and grandfathers will enjoy free admission to the zoo’s eight themed exhibit areas including Grizzly Ridge, Pride of Africa and Penguin Point.

Discover not only facts about animals from around the globe but also the cultures that shape our planet during Multicultural Day on June 22. Visitors can learn more about other parts of the world through art demonstrations. Get ready for a day of adventure and imagination at Princess and Pirate Day, making a grand return to the zoo on July 20. Young explorers are encouraged to dress up as their favorite pirates or princesses and capture memorable moments with costumed characters.

The lure of ice cream is impossible to resist in the summer, and Chillin’ at the Zoo is the perfect way to get your family outside and enjoy the sweet treat. On July 27, for an additional cost, zoogoers can enjoy six ice cream samples, family-friendly activities, and visits from the zoo’s animal ambassadors. For more information, visit akronzoo.org.

Paddling Adventures

If you’re looking for a little adventure but still want to keep it relaxed, the Susquehanna River makes Columbia & Montour Counties a prime kayaking destination. The river’s north branch flows directly through the counties on its way to the Chesapeake Bay. With its wide, shallow riverbed and slow current, the river is ideal for beginner and intermediate paddlers. Ample boat launches and nearby outfitters make it simple for families of all ages to enjoy some quality river time.

Wildlife is abundant on the river - don’t be surprised if you take a paddle break and see a bald eagle soaring overhead! Learn more at iTourColumbiaMontour.com or scan the QR code!

Grand Lake Region

Plan a family getaway in Ohio’s Grand Lake Region. Covering 13,500 acres, Grand Lake St. Marys is the state’s largest manmade inland lake and provides opportunities for boating, fishing and kayaking. Start the adventure at Grand Lake St. Marys State Park, which offers 52 miles of shoreline as well as boat rentals at its marina. Those looking for a place to stay can reserve a spot at the state park’s 208-acre campground.

If you want to stay in an environment packed with tropical vibes, book a townhome or cottage at Boardwalk Village. The colorful abodes offer a beach-vacation feel, complete with a swimming pool, sand volleyball and palm trees. There are also pickleball courts and places set aside for the kids to play. Boardwalk Grill is just a short walk away, providing a place to grab lunch or dinner.

While you’re here, visit one of several museums in the Grand Lake Region. Take the family to visit the Armstrong Air & Space Museum in Wapakoneta and follow in the footsteps of the first man to step foot on the surface of the moon. Inside the museum, you’ll find the actual Gemini VIII that Armstrong piloted in space, lunar samples that were brought back from the Apollo mission, and Armstrong’s spacesuits. You can also head to New Bremen to visit the Bicycle Museum of America, one of the largest collections of bicycles on display in the country. For more information, visit seemore.org.

First Fridays on 4th

June 1-2, Ohio Valley Frontier Days

June 12-14, Holy Trinity Greek Fest

June 13-15, Dean Martin Festival

July 1-September 1, Catfish Crawl

Fort Steuben Park

Get up-close with animals and enjoy special events at the Akron Zoo (opposite page). Indulge in lake life and book a stay along Ohio’s largest manmade inland lake (above).

Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama

Returning to the Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre for its 51st year, “Tecumseh!” tells the epic life story of the legendary Shawnee leader as he struggles to defend his sacred homelands in the Ohio country during the late 1700s.

This outdoor drama has become an Ohio summer tradition, with actors telling this captivating story using the starry night sky as their backdrop. Listen to the thundering sounds of horses as they gallop across the scene and the boom of a military cannon. Battle sequences complete the drama and bring this rich history to life.

“Tecumseh!” Is an affordable family experience that kids of all ages can enjoy. Visit on Tuesdays for family night and purchase the family four-pack of tickets. This deal lasts for the entire show season, which runs from June 14 through Sept. 1, and includes four tickets for just $50. Shows run Tuesday through Saturday (plus an additional show on Sunday, Sept. 1) and begin at 8 p.m.

Extend the experience at Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre with pre-show attractions the whole family can enjoy, like tomahawk throwing and the Sugarloaf Mountain Prospecting Co. Kids can check out rocks and gems in the shop before panning for treasures of their own to take home. Right before showtime, be sure to stop off at The Kenton House Food and Ale on-site at the amphitheater to share a fresh pizza. For more information, visit tecumsehdrama.com.

EXPLORE our wild side

EXPLORE our wild side

Belmont County has fun for the whole family. Watch Longhorn cattle roam or camp under the stars - creating family memories that will last a lifetime!

OH

LONGHORN TOURS,

CATTLE

Youngstown & Mahoning County

Find outdoor family activities this season at Mill Creek MetroParks. With 45 miles of hiking trails, lakes where families can rent pedal boats and kayaks, and historic Lanterman’s Mill to explore, the opportunities for outdoor adventure are plentiful.

The 12-acre Fellows Riverside Gardens is one of Ohio’s finest public gardens, offering beautiful and colorful displays alongside scenic vistas. Visitors can also hit the 11-mile Bikeway, try the disc golf course and head out to the MetroParks Farm to meet some of the animals. Speaking of our furry friends, be sure to plan a visit to Noah’s Lost Ark Exotic Animal Sanctuary. A permanent haven for unwanted and abused exotic animals, the animal sanctuary cares for these magnificent creatures as they live out the rest of their lives in a safe environment. It houses lions, tigers, leopards, zebras, bears, primates and more.

Nearly 1,700 acres of recreational waters await at Lake Milton State Park. Cast a line, rent a boat at the marina on the lake’s east side and go swimming at the 600-foot beach. Kids will love the Storybook Trail where they follow childsize storyboards with activities on this half-mile paved trail located near the beach. An 18-hole disc golf course and a great mountain bike trail add to the family fun to be discovered in this corner of northeast Ohio. For more information, visit youngstownlive.com.

Plan Your

See “Tecumseh!” in Chillicothe (opposite page). Visit Noah’s Lost Ark Exotic Animal Sanctuary in Mahoning County (above).

Steubenville

Known for its annual displays of whimsically oversized artworks and accompanying arts scene, Steubenville has recently added catfish to its collection of public art exhibitions. Created by the Steubenville Cultural Trust, which also launched the Steubenville Nutcracker Village, the Catfish Crawl spans a collection of 5-foottall fiberglass catfish uniquely painted by local artists and placed throughout downtown. The 10 decorated statues will be available to view from July 1 through Sept. 1.

Each catfish is designed around a theme and features details that people will be asked to find as part of a contest. Maps and information as well as some tasty treats will be available at Leonardo’s Coffeehouse.

This summer, the city also welcomes a new commemorative mural that will be added to its existing 23. The mural, designed by noted artist Kyle Holbrook, celebrates the expedition of Lewis and Clark. Aspiring artists will enjoy a visit to downtown’s new Spyridon Pottery Studio, which offers a selection of classes, artist memberships and retail.

Check out 7 Ranges Entertainment, a new addition to downtown that features over 150 arcade games, 12 state-of-theart bowling lanes, eight lanes of axe throwing and an adventure through a blacklight mini golf course.

Don’t forget to include a visit to Historic Fort Steuben, the Antique Warehouse, Beatty Park and Austin Lake to make memories with the family. For more information, go to visitsteubenville.com.

Findlay

History runs deep in Findlay. In addition to being known as “Flag City, USA,” this northwest Ohio community is teeming with history, arts and plenty of exciting destinations to discover. A trip to Findlay is sure to delight young and old alike with a wide variety of destinations that promote creativity and education.

Established in 1998, the Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Museum encourages a deeper understanding of America’s railroad history and the importance of its preservation through handson learning. One of the museum’s highlights is an operational, quarter-scale steam locomotive that offers rides to visitors both young and old on a loop that traverses the Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation campus.

Additionally, the museum hosts Family Fun days throughout the summer, inviting parents and young ones to enjoy train rides, a bounce house and other family-friendly activities and events for a small admission price.

Another fun, family-friendly destination in Findlay is the Mazza Museum. Located on the University of Findlay’s campus, this museum celebrates the art of children’s picture books through a collection that contains over 13,000 original works. Kids can immerse

themselves in the whimsical and youthful nature of the pieces and may even recognize a few from some of their favorite books. The museum also offers plenty of enrichment activities for kids such as educational tours, story-time sessions, young artists workshops and more. For more information, go to visitfindlay.com.

has a new public art exhibit this summer (opposite page). Explore railroad history in Findlay (above).

Steubenville

Pea Ohana Watersports

Explore the scenic beauty found along the Licking and Muskingum rivers in Zanesville with a visit to Pea Ohana Watersports. Bear and Marissa Davis brought Pea Ohana — meaning “Bear Family” in Hawaiian — to Zanesville so that avid adventurers and novice explorers alike can enjoy an on-the-water experience. Excursions begin at Dillon Falls on the Licking River. Kayakers can settle in for either the 4-mile trip or the 8-mile guided paddle, while tubers enjoy a 2-mile or 4-mile float. Along the way, enjoy scenic views in the Appalachian countryside as well as the urban sites of Zanesville at the confluence of the Licking and Muskingum rivers. As adventurers make their way downriver, they encounter rapids, adding to the sense of adventure. Kayakers and tubers also travel beneath the historic Y-Bridge before ending at either the Pea Ohana Boat House (4-mile and 2-mile trips) or the Sunkin Barge Social Club (8-mile trip).

Each trip includes safety gear, equipment rental and a wristband good for local restaurant discounts at places like Weasel Boy Brewing Co., which is located above the boathouse. Excursions are open to ages 8 and up, making this the perfect day trip for the whole family. After returning your gear, be sure to take advantage of the shops and restaurants located in the Putnam Entertainment District. For more information, visit peaohana.com.

Medina County

Northeast Ohio’s Medina County invites travelers to explore charming city streets and scenic countryside. Whether you’re seeking shopping opportunities, outdoor adventure or family fun, you’re sure to find it all in Medina County.

Discover a world of literary whimsy at Black Cat Books. This bookshop located in downtown Medina offers genres for all ages as well as themed reading areas to match. Young readers will love the Secret Garden room, which is filled with nature-inspired decor and plenty of picture books. The Phantom’s Passage invites slightly older readers to explore and find a thrilling mystery or YA novel.

Those looking to get outside, can visit Whipps Ledges. Part of the Cleveland Metroparks system, it offers hiking trails as well as spots to picnic or leisurely explore nature.

A trip to Medina wouldn’t be complete without exploring the area’s agricultural side. At Richardson’s Farm, you’ll find a greenhouse growing crops and herbs that are sold at the farm’s market stand as well as an orchard offering pick-your-own apples and peaches. During a visit, kids will be eager to see the farm’s cows, chickens, turkeys and pigs.

For more animal encounters, head to Majestic Meadows Alpacas, an animal farm that is home to over 70 alpacas and other critters. Hand-feed the animals and get to know both the domestic and more exotic species that reside there. For more information, go to visitmedinacounty.com. ●

Paddle on the Licking and Muskingum rivers with Pea Ohana Watersports (left). Browse a book shop, pick your own peaches and feed alpacas in Medina County (above).

MILESTONES

Bicentennial Wagon Train Visits Richfield

On June 4, 1976, the transcontinental Bicentennial Wagon Train stopped in northeast Ohio during its trek to reach Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, in time for Independence Day.

Made up of dozens of wagons traversing seven different routes from starting points across the United States, the Bicentennial Wagon Train served as a celebration that paid tribute to the indomitable spirit of America’s early pioneers. While those cross-continent travelers moved westward in covered wagons across the Allegheny Mountains to new opportunity, the 1976 celebration was done in reverse, moving west to east.

The Bicentennial Wagon Train rolled into the Summit County community of Richfield on June 4, 1976, just one month before it was scheduled to arrive in Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, to officially conclude the pilgrimage.

“The Bicentennial Wagon Train, 43 wagons strong, plodded into this pastoral community Friday afternoon amid much flag waving, cheering and whooping,” Akron Beacon

Journal staff writer Peggy Rader reported in the June 5, 1976, edition of the newspaper.

Jessie Schaures made the trek from Oregon with his wife, Faye, in their covered wagon, Rader reported.

“We’ve come 3,400 miles or so from the northwest corner of our state. It is just a great way to celebrate this birthday,” he said.

The Richfield stop also provided an opportunity for Mayor Paul Wulff to conduct a marriage ceremony for Gale McMasters and Jeffrey Boggs, participants in the wagon train. Both were originally from this area of Ohio but didn’t meet until they joined the wagon train in Arizona, the Akron Beacon Journal reported. Richfield was one of 15 stops along the Great Lakes Route that the Bicentennial Wagon Train was scheduled to make in Ohio on its way to Pennsylvania.

An official program for the Bicentennial Wagon Train in the collection of the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Museum in Michigan notes that a Bicentennial Wagon Train was a fitting way to celebrate America’s 200th birthday, paying tribute to the throngs of settlers that risked their lives for a chance at opportunity in the new American west.

“The settlers were drawn by a compelling belief in the unalienable rights of man, of liberty, of justice and of freedom — the principles upon which our nation was founded.”

— Nathan Havenner

Richfield in Summit County was one of 15 stops on the Bicentennial Wagon Train’s Great Lakes Route.