TRAVEL
WORDS BY KAREN RING
Let’s Go “Across the Border”! Tons of fun awaits just over the state line Travel is not about the distance; it is about the destination – and there are a whole lot of fun family adventures to be found by just crossing a state line or two. Here are a few of our favorite places to visit in our neighboring states. ILLINOIS Giant City State Park Located in the Shawnee National Forest in the southeastern corner of the state, Giant City State Park is a nature lover’s dream. The park, named for the massive sandstone structures that dot the area, has a prehistoric vibe with lush ferns, moss and more than 75 varieties of towering trees. Enjoy horseback riding, hiking, rock climbing/rappelling and more. For an overnight stay, pitch a tent at one of the area’s well-kept campgrounds or opt for the rustic beauty of the Giant City Lodge. Learn more about all the area has to offer at www.dnr.illinois.gov/Parks/ Pages/GiantCity.aspx.
Chicago ABOVE MILLENNIUM PARK, CHICAGO BOTTOM COSI, COLUMBUS RIGHT KINGS ISLAND, CINCINNATI
16 INDYSCHILD.COM April 2018
The Windy City is chock-full of big city fun for the whole family. Spend a day at Museum Campus, a 57-acre park on the shores of Lake Michigan that houses three notable museums: Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum of Natural History. Immerse yourself in the shadows of the skyline with a stroll along the Magnificent Mile or get a unique perspective of the city’s architecture with a
ride on a Chicago Water Taxi. Of course, no trip to Chicago would be complete without a stop at Millennium Park, home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, aka The Bean. For hotel stays and more, visit www.choosechicago.com.
OHIO Warren County Just 30 minutes north of downtown Cincinnati, Warren County is fondly known as Ohio’s Largest Playground. Take a covered wagon ride at Bonnybrook Farms, check out the waterfalls at Caesar Creek State Park or take one of the monthly themed train rides aboard the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad. Thrill seekers of all ages will find what they are after at Kings Island, which boasts 9.2 miles of roller coaster track and tons of fun for little ones at Planet Snoopy. Find more things to do and places to stay at www.ohioslargestplayground.com.
Columbus Columbus’ population is booming – and so is its entertainment scene. Kids of all ages will have fun exploring the interactive science exhibits at COSI, including the newly opened Dinosaur Gallery. Or blow your kids’ minds by taking them on a tour of the American Whistle Company where they can witness their favorite noisemaker being made from start to finish. For an outdoor adventure like no other, head to the Scioto Mile, an urban oasis comprised of more than 175 acres along the riverfront featuring a stunning interactive fountain and the country’s largest free outdoor climbing wall. For more Columbus fun, visit www.experiencecolumbus.com.