Hometown Tourist

By Amy Hayden

As the weather gets warmer, people are ready to get outside and travel. If long road trips or expensive vacations aren’t in your budget, Greater Cincinnati has plenty of spots to explore.

For Thrill Seekers

Kings Island has 50 roller coasters and rides, an attached water park, and a variety of dining and entertainment options. You can even take a ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower for unmatched views of the park and surrounding landscape (pictured right).

Miami Valley Gaming is a harness racing track and casino between Monroe and Lebanon. It has seasonal live horse racing five days a week and live entertainment every weekend.

For History Buffs

Château Laroche, also known as the Loveland Castle, is a museum on the banks of the Little Miami River. This medieval-style castle took 50 years to build (pictured right). You can take a self-guided tour through the castle and gardens.

The Voice of America Museum in West Chester celebrates the legacy and global impact of the first international broadcasting station. It features exhibits about radio and wireless innovations.

Tucked in the Walnut Hills neighborhood is the William Howard Taft National Historic Site. The house was the birthplace of Taft, who was the 27th president of the United States and the 10th chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

For Nature Lovers

Sawyer Point has something for everyone—from tennis courts and water sprinklers to public art and walking trails. You can also relax on the Serpentine Wall and watch boats on the Ohio River.

Krohn Conservatory in Eden Park features rotating botanical exhibits and an indoor waterfall. It’s also home to the annual Butterfly Show, which gives visitors a chance to interact with the butterflies (pictured right).

Mitchell Memorial Forest in Cleves is home to Hamilton County’s first official mountain bike trail. It also has a pond for catch-and-release fishing and a trail perfect for spotting wildlife.

TruCare Provider Services’ annual Be My Valentine event was a special night for all. People who attended enjoyed food, beverages and fun activities. The evening included plenty of chances for creating connections and celebrating community. Be My Valentine was co-hosted by Diana Mairose, Steve Pelton, and Danae Riggs. Photos by A Ghra Photography LLC

Neighbors in Action and Hamilton County DD Services started a new tradition this year—giving back to the community. Volunteer Days take place every other month. These events are an opportunity for people with disabilities to spend time socializing while making a positive impact in the community. In January, the group made peanut butter & jelly sandwiches for Our Daily Bread soup kitchen. In March, they put together activity bags for St. Vincent De Paul. Photo by Ann Myres.

Nearly 40 people joined the first PigAbilities Meetup of the season on Feb. 25. The Flying Pig mascot also made a special appearance to cheer on athletes. People with disabilities and their supporters gather each week to train for PigAbilities, the one-mile event during Flying Pig weekend. This year’s PigAbilities is set for Saturday, May 4. Photos by Lisa Danford.