
Itching to spend some time outdoors now that the weather is warming up again? So are we!
Thankfully, tons of springtime events and festivals are happening all over Ohio in the next few weeks. Whether you're in the Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati areas, you'll have no shortage of options. Why not fill in your calendar with a few of the best ones from our list below?
Geauga County Maple Festival is back in Chardon Square April 21 – 24 this year. This beloved local event offers fun for the whole family, including rides, games, and live entertainment from local musicians. Make sure you visit on an empty stomach—you'll love taking part in their pancake breakfasts and pancake eating competitions (with plenty of maple syrup, of course). When you're done, you can enjoy festivities like maple candy carving, the crowning of the Maple Queen, and a syrup-making competition for local aficionados. All syrups in the competition are raffled off as part of the festivities, and a selection of other delicious maple-flavored treats will be available for purchase as well.
980 Lincoln Ave., Steubenville, OH 43952
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2022's Great Steubenville Eggsibition begins April 15. This event is a local tradition begun by the artisans at Nelson's Fine Art and Gifts, who have crafted over 20 giant eggs for display around the neighborhood. Each egg features beautiful artwork that has been hand-painted by local artists. The eggs are hidden around the Steubenville business district to simulate a traditional Easter egg hunt. See how many you can find while strolling around Steubenville this spring!
3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842
The Mohican State Park's Mohican Wildlife Weekend April 22-24 is one of the most popular outdoor gatherings in Northeast Ohio. Some of the activities offered during this weekend include archery shooting, survival classes, gold panning, and a scavenger hunt. There are also several educational programs available at specific times, such as the Wings of Wonder Bird Presentation and a planetarium program where you can observe the movement of the stars. You'll need to reserve a spot for some activities in advance, so be sure to check out what's available and register before the event.
537 Jones Rd. NE, Granville, OH 43023
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The second annual Taste of Granville event, 5–8 pm April 30, will be hosted by the Granville Rotary at the Bryn Du Mansion. This fast-paced dining experience offers you the chance to sample beer, wine, liquor, and cider from local brewers and distilleries and food from local eateries, including Wild Things Sandwich Café. Dashing Diner, and Ray Ray's Hog Pit. General tickets are available for $35. VIP tables can be booked for $250 to $500, depending on the size of your party.
11339 Mt. Vernon Rd., Utica, OH 43080
The Sertoma Ice Cream Festival has taken place on the grounds of the Energy Cooperative and Velvet Ice Cream Company nearly every year since 1975. Guests will enjoy everything from pony rides and lawn games to a motorcycle and car show. If you're hungry, you can enjoy delicious local dishes like bratwurst, ham and beans, and gallons of premium ice cream. You can also browse a selection of crafts from dozens of local vendors. At just $5 admission per car, this is the perfect place to spend a pleasant spring afternoon with your family May 28-30.
3400 Vine St. Cincinnati, OH 45220
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The Cincinnati Zoo is always a great place for a fun weekend outing, but it's extra special during the spring Zoo Blooms event April 1-30. During the entire month of April, the zoo's abundant plant life blossoms into a full botanical garden. This period is also known as "Tulip Mania" for the incredible number of tulips on display, but you'll also find plenty of hyacinths and daffodils as well as a multitude of flowering trees and shrubs. There's no additional fee to visit the zoo during this time, so there's no better time for a visit.
96 S. Grant Ave., Columbus, OH 43215
Can't get enough of books and literature? The upcoming Ohioana Book Festival April 30 is the place for you. Held by the Ohioana Library in Columbus, this event offers readings and in-depth panel discussions and a book fair, fun educational activities for kids, and delicious snacks. This year's theme is "Celebrating Ohio's Authors," and over 100 of the state's best-known writers will be attending.
1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
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Every year, the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum celebrates Art and Earth Day, a special day that combines aspects of Arbor Day, Earth Day, and International Sculpture Day. Some of the activities available this year include bird and tree walks, a student art walk featuring works from the students at the University of Cincinnati, and a lively Happy Hour at the Grand Pavilion. Come take in some of the most impressive natural and manmade sights that Cincinnati has to offer from 9 am to 5 pm April 23.
100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
The 2022 Cincy on Tap Festival will take place at the Great American Ball Park 1–4 pm April 9. This event gathers over 60 local breweries for an unforgettable afternoon of beer tasting and fun. Many of the area's best food trucks will also be serving food on-site, and local cover bands will be playing live during the entire event. Tickets start at $50 and include up to 30 4-ounce samples of premium beers made by local breweries, as well as a complimentary ticket to the Reds vs. Cardinals baseball game happening on April 24 at the ballpark. This is a 21+ event, so be sure to bring your ID on the big day!
Which of these Ohio spring events will you be attending in the coming weeks?

When you think "bourbon," the first place that comes to mind is probably Kentucky. But with all due respect to our neighbors across the river, Ohio has plenty to offer when it comes to the most American of spirits. In every corner of the Buckeye State, you'll find great bourbon bars where you can sip your favorite whiskey neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a unique craft cocktail. Let's all raise a glass to the best bourbon bars in Ohio!
2767 Euclid Heights Blvd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
It's hard to imagine a better hangout for bourbon aficionados than the Whiskey Bar. With its straight-to-the-point name and welcoming speakeasy vibes, it's a perfect place to sit and sip awhile. And with over 400 varieties of whiskey on deck, it's unlikely you'll run out of spirits to sample. The Whiskey Bar also has a friendly, easy-going staff of bartenders who are always happy to help you find the perfect bourbon for any palate. This is definitely a hidden gem in the Cleveland area.
2063 E. 4th St., Cleveland, OH 44115
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Offering one of the best bourbon collections in Northeast Ohio, Society Lounge is a staple of the Cleveland bar scene. With its stylish interior and Roaring 20s-inspired atmosphere, drinking here almost feels like stepping back in time. Society lounge is best known for their expertly-mixed craft cocktails (bourbon fans should sample the 'Death in New York') and prohibition-era ambiance, but they also offer a huge selection of spirits. Expect to be able to choose from 30-plus bourbons at any given time, and with a healthy selection of rye, scotch, and gin to boot.
8003 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
The Bourbon Review named Oak & Embers one of the best bourbon bars in America in 2019, and they definitely know what they're talking about. This hole-in-the-wall in Chesterfield is all about the three B's: bourbon, barbecue, and beer. They serve an amazing selection of bourbon and craft beer to go with their smoky, savory pulled pork, beef brisket, and baby back ribs. And if you're in the mood for a cocktail, try one of their bourbon-centric signature mixed drinks. The "Follow the Smoke" is made with Makers Mark bourbon, Campari and Dolan sweet vermouth smoked with hickory.
36 E. Gay St., Columbus, OH 43215
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You'll find no shortage of great whiskey bars in Columbus, and the Buckeye Bourbon House is definitely one of the best. Their bourbon shelf is a thing of beauty, and they're always highlighting new and exciting bourbons, including a lot of small-batch spirits made right here in Ohio. They have over 50 whiskeys and bourbons to choose from, as well as crafty cocktails and a menu of elevated pub grub. They even offer bourbon flights for those who want to savor the different flavors. Buckeye Bourbon House also made Bourbon Review's ranking of the best bourbon bars in the Midwest for 2021.
843 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
Over 300 whiskeys are just waiting to be sampled at the Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge, a High Street hangout that might just offer the best bourbon selection in Columbus. This cozy, intimate space is the perfect place to enjoy drinks with friends and enjoy the Prohibition-themed decor. In addition to a deep roster of bourbons, the Alibi Bourbon & Cocktail Lounge offers an incredible array of signature cocktails that run the gamut from approachable and sweet to bitter and spirit-forward. You'll never run out of new flavors to try here, but if you want a basic Old Fashioned made just the way you like it, this is a great place for that too.
1380 W. 3rd Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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A beloved staple of Columbus' Grandview Heights neighborhood, Barrel & Taps has everything you need for a good time. They always have a well-curated selection of bourbon ready to pour and craft beer on tap, and the indoor bar and outdoor patio each invite guests to stay awhile and enjoy themselves. There's a good chance there will be a food truck or two on-site if you get a little hungry. And with regular events like trivia nights, live music, and yoga on the patio, there's pretty much always something fun going on at Barrel & Taps.
1051 Goodale Blvd., Columbus, OH 43212
Having been awarded Best Creative Cocktails two years running in 614's ColumBest poll, High Bank Distillery Co. takes drinks seriously. Bourbon is featured in cocktails such as the End of Anxiety, which pairs nicely with the restaurant's many shareables. We're partial to the Crispy Brussels with sweet chili glaze and Shrimp Tacos with adobo marinated shrimp. In addition to Grandview, the owners of this bar and eatery are scheduled to open a second location in the Gahanna/New Albany area this year.
3934 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
Cincinnati is just a stone's throw across the Ohio River from Kentucky, so it should come as no surprise that the city has a lot to offer bourbon aficionados. The Littlefield is a great example. This hip Northside hangout features an eclectic interior and a breezy patio space, along with a great bourbon selection and plenty of local craft beers on tap. They make great cocktails too, like "The Fergus," made with bourbon, balsamic vinaigrette, ginger beer, and basil simple syrup. The Littlefield is also known for their elevated pub fare and Sunday brunch, which always includes vegan and vegetarian options alongside staples like burgers and shrimp-and-grits
1201 Broadway St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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You might never have guessed that biscuits and bourbon went together, but you will after visiting Boomtown Biscuits & Whiskey. Their biscuit plates and biscuit sandwiches are to die for. Try the Rosewood—Korean fried chicken, house-made kimchi, and Gochujang BBQ between two golden, butter biscuits—and chase it with a house cocktail like the Boomtown Gold Rush or the Gold Fashioned. Boomtown always has around 50 varieties of bourbon, scotch, whiskey, and rye as well, and their whole vibe revolves around a creative take on classic American frontier food and drink.
251 Calhoun St., Cincinnati, OH 45219
Known for being a great happy hour hangout, Hop Scotch Craft Beer & Whiskey is the perfect place to grab a drink after work. They have a huge selection of bourbon and whiskey, along with plenty of excellent craft beer. The staff behind the bar is reliably friendly and knowledgeable, and weekly specials like karaoke and mix-and-match craft beer buckets, there's always a good time to be had. Hop Scotch has 100-plus varieties of whiskey and a menu of staple pub fare like wings and flatbread pizzas.
Ohio offers no shortage of great bourbon bars. What's your favorite watering hole?

Fizzy, often fruity, and just a little bit sweet, hard seltzer is quickly becoming a favorite drink among those who prefer a lighter flavor profile when indulging. Cincinnati seltzer lovers are in luck: The city is home to some of the most popular hard seltzer producers in the state, and many of its bars serve at least one brand. The following nine bars are some of the best places to enjoy a happy hour hard seltzer in and around Cincinnati.
18 W. 13th St., Over-the-Rhine, OH, 45202
Full of gleaming glass and sophisticated wood paneling, Sundry and Vice is a small old-fashioned bar with a classy, almost academic atmosphere. Its front window looks almost like a curio cabinet. Inside, patrons can sit atop the tall leather-covered bar stools and order drinks with captivating names like the Clover Club, the Jade Effect, and the Miracle Finnish.
In addition to their cocktail menu, Sundry and Vice also serves a pair of highballs made with classic New York Seltzer. You can choose from either mezcal mixed with Root Beer seltzer or vodka mixed with Peach Soda seltzer.
7885 E. Kemper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45249
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Named for the day Ohio was founded (March 1, 1803), the March First Brewery is extremely proud of their state and heritage. This company produces the locally beloved Astra Hard Seltzer line of products, which was named to celebrate Ohio's under-recognized contributions to the field of space exploration.
You can visit the brewery and stop by the on-site bar to sample a few flavors of Astra seltzer drinks, including Bomb Pop, Red Cream Soda, and Crush. March First also serves plenty of food to accompany their drinks, including sandwiches, chips, and delicious fresh pizzas straight from the stone ovens of their pizza kitchen.
2940 Highland Ave. #230, Cincinnati, OH 45212
Part bar and part bowling alley, Fowling Warehouse might just be the best place in Cincinnati for hard seltzer lovers. In spring 2021 they hosted Cincinnati's very first Seltzer Fest, a celebratory exhibition with nearly a hundred different types of hard seltzer from local and national brands on tap.
Fowling Warehouse also offers a wide selection of hard seltzer from local partners year-round. One particularly fun menu offering is their Mystery Seltzer, an order which will get you one random can of hard seltzer from a selection of over 30 flavors. This can be a fun way to get your hard seltzer fix without limiting yourself to the same old standby flavors you always go for.
27 W. 7th St., Covington, KY 41011
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Prefer to sip your drinks in the cool, refreshing night air? The Rooftop is an open-air bar that has recently opened on top of the Braxton Brewing Company building. With 5,000 square feet of space and plenty of on-site amenities to enjoy (including lounge-style seating, umbrellas and canopies, a grassy lawn area, and more), this establishment offers a relaxed setting and an incredible view of Cincinnati's skyline.
The Rooftop's extensive drink menu includes four flavors of VIVE hard seltzer, including Sunrise Punch and Southern Punch. The fruity profiles of these picks matches perfectly with the bar's breezy atmosphere. Be sure to visit when the weather is good for the best possible experience!
2800 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206
Woodburn Brewing is a modern bar with a deep respect for its historical roots. The company chose to use phoenix iconography in its branding to celebrate the resurgence of Ohio's brewing culture in recent years. Now, they have become an integral part of this thriving sub-culture. The owners have gone the extra mile to create a diverse entertainment experience to complement their enticing array of drinks. The bar regularly hosts events like trivia nights, live performances, and even yoga classes on the premises.
On top of their artisan beer, this bar also serves several flavors of Astra hard seltzer, including Pink Lemonade and Baja Blast. They also offer Blackberry Breeze hard seltzer from Ohio's own FigLeaf Brewing Company.
793 E. McMillian St., Cincinnati, OH 45206
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Thanks to its offbeat location, The Comfort Station is one of the most distinctive bars in the Cincinnati area. The building was originally built as a public restroom and bathhouse back in the early 1910s and was recently converted into a commercial bar space by the same team that founded Sundry and Vice, another bar on this list. Patrons still enter the bar using the original Women's room door, an excellent touch that makes your visit feel unique from the moment you walk in.
This bright and intimate bar is all about fostering connections, and patrons are encouraged to bring outside food and stay a while if they want to. As for drinks, most are handcrafted cocktails that you won't find anywhere else. For instance, the bar's signature Mass Communicatin' hard seltzer cocktail blends the fruity flavors of strawberry and citrus with more complex notes of ginger and amaro.
1727 Logan St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
The Samuel Adams Cincinnati Taproom is a relatively recent addition to the Samuel Adams Brewery, but it has already grown a considerable local following. With both indoor and outdoor spaces for mingling and a growing clientele, this is an up-and-coming social spot for the city's younger crowd.
The bar's menu is largely focused on promoting their fresh-brewed Samuel Adams beer, but they also offer some Truly Hard Seltzer (one of the other brands owned by their parent company, the Boston Beer Company) and other drinks. Try a few different options as you relax in one of their leather-upholstered armchairs or admire the rustic barrel wall that pulls together their dark wood décor.
2804 Woodburn Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45206
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Anjou is a very new bar that the owners decided to open after seeing so many of their favorite hangouts close during the 2020 pandemic. While it is still working to establish itself as a recreational venue, its bright, airy atmosphere gives it a unique appeal that should help it to stand out from the local competition.
Anjou serves Braxton Brewing's VIVE Dragonfruit and Mango hard seltzers as part of their lineup of local beers and spirits. The light fruity taste of these drinks goes perfectly with the cheery surroundings, but make sure you don't visit too late – the bar's doors close by midnight at the latest.
3210 Linwood Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
If you prefer a casual atmosphere while you're out on the town, Millions Café is the place for you. This modest-looking dive bar serves an impressive selection of hard seltzers from both local and national brands, including Astra, Truly, and White Claw.
You can sip your drink while listening to music from the live DJ, participating in the bar's weekly trivia night, or just chatting with your fellow patrons. This bar is known to be very laid-back, so it's a great hangout spot for people who don't usually spend much time in Cincinnati's nightlife scene.
Which Cincinnati bar will you be sipping hard seltzer at next Friday night?

If you enjoy spicy food, there's a very important holiday coming up. International Hot and Spicy Food Day is January 16, 2022! Get ready to sweat as you nosh on heat-packed favorites. Whether you prefer to calm the spice with a glass of milk, a slice of bread, or your own unique concoction, we have some incredible restaurants to recommend around Cincinnati.
213 W. McMillan St., Cincinnati, OH 45219
If you'd rather enjoy takeout, Thai Express is a great spot to visit for spicy cuisine. It's a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant, but they are known throughout the city for their tasty cuisine. They're only a little spicy, but the curry spring rolls are an incredible start to any meal.
Those with a high heat tolerance love the Red Curry at Thai Express. It packs a punch, but the sauce is really rich and flavorful. Other good, spicy choices include the Drunkard's Stir Fry, Panang Curry, and Holy Basil Stir Fry. If you prefer just a hint of spice, the Pad King is a good choice.
10400 Reading Rd. #205b, Cincinnati, OH 45241
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Sichuan Chili Chinese Restaurant has "chili" in the name, so you can bet the food will be spicy! This is a modern, inviting Chinese restaurant open for both lunch and dinner. They even offer online ordering, convenient if your schedule is packed.
One of the best spicy dishes at Sichuan Chili is the Sichuan Sizzling Beef. In typical Sichuan fashion, it's made with plenty of chili peppers, along with tender sirloin steak. Another favorite is the Red Dry Chili Fish Filets. And if you're on a vegetarian diet, the Kung Pao Tofu is hard to beat.
220 W. 12th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Zundo Ramen & Donburi is a unique Japanese restaurant with a simple, industrial vibe. The exposed ceiling and brick walls make for a fun dining experience. There's even a full bar where you can order a cocktail or a shot of sake as you wait for your meal. Zundo opened in 2017 and quickly became a favorite of ramen lovers in Cincinnati.
Not all Japanese food is spicy, which makes Zundo a good place to go if you're not sure everyone in your party is keen on heat. That being said, they do have some very good spicy dishes. The Spicy Miso Ramen is warm and satisfying on a cold January day. You may also want to try the Katsu Curry Rice or the Curry Udon Noodles.
26 W. Court St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Lalo Restaurant offers a unique fusion of Pan-Asian and Mexican cuisines. Their space is as artistic as their menu, using a combination of bold colors and patterned wall tile to surround you with wonder. In one corner, there's a statue of a man in a traditional Mexican hat. In another corner, there's traditional Japanese art.
If you're there for the spice, then you have to try Lalo's hot salsa as an appetizer. The Lalo Wings, which come with your choice of Thai sauce or spicy chipotle sauce, are well worth ordering for the table to share. You can't go wrong with any of the tacos. The Honey Chipotle Chicken Tacos offer a lovely balance of heat and sweetness, and the Fish Tempura Tacos get a mild dose of heat from Sriracha mayonnaise.
10736 Reading Rd. #2529, Cincinnati, OH 45241
Uncle Yip's is a casual restaurant serving authentic Chinese food. They have a small but welcoming dining room with a cozy atmosphere. Guests are served green tea in hand-painted Chinese teapots. Uncle Yip's does have a full bar where you can order cocktails, wine, and beer.
While not everything on the menu is spicy, Uncle Yip's offers plenty of choices suitable for International Hot and Spicy Food Day. The Stuffed Chili Peppers With Shrimp are a good choice if you're in the mood for dim sum. The Hong Kong Style Fish Filet is delicious, and of course, you can't go wrong with General Tso's Chicken.
8100 Blue Ash. Rd., Deer Park, OH 45236
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If you've never tried Venezuelan food before, this is the perfect opportunity. Arrechissimo Restaurant does a wonderful job of recreating the cuisine. They offer online ordering and delivery, but for the most authentic experience, you'll want to dine in.
Some of the best meals here are definitely the bowls. The Chicken Bowl comes with cilantro rice, sauteed chicken, fried yucca, pico de gallo salad, and sliced avocado. You can choose from spicy and mild cilantro sauces. The empanadas are also delicious. They're $6 apiece, and it's worth ordering a few for your table to enjoy.
2826 Short Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45219
You don't have to take a vacation to enjoy the flavors of the Caribbean. Island Frydays serves Jamaican favorites, including plenty of spicy specialties, right in Cincinnati. The restaurant was visited by Guy Fierri's show, Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, in 2014. Leo Morgan, the restaurant's founder, is a Jamaican native who attended the University of Cincinnati, Morgan.
One favorite at Island Frydays is the Jerk Chicken. It's juicy, tender, and well-seasoned with the restaurant's own jerk blend. The Beef Patty is also delicious with just a bit of spice. If you're in the mood for finger food, order the Jerk Wings and Fries. You'll leave smiling.
940 Pavillion St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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If you're in the mood for Mexican food on International Hot and Spicy Food Day, then El Barril Mexican Sports Bar & Grill is a good place to go. You can sit at the bar, watch the big game, and enjoy some margaritas and tacos with friends.
Start the meal off with an order of Jalapeno Rellenos, which pack quite a punch. The Elote, corn covered in mayo, chili powder, and cheese, is also delicious. Tacos are available a la carte, with options including carnitas and lengua, and guests also love the Fajitas Texanas and Shrimp Chimichangas.
Where will you get your spice on for International Hot and Spicy Food Day?

With signs of habitation dating back to 13,000 BC, Ohio has a rich and colorful past. No matter what you learned in history books, it can't compare to seeing it with your own eyes. Whether it's a castle in Northeast Ohio, a covered bridge near Columbus, or a library in Cincinnati, a visit to these incredible sites will give you a new appreciation of our state.
North Chagrin Reservation, 2844 River Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
If you're fascinated by the fictional royalty of Game of Thrones or real-life royalty of Queen Elizabeth and her family, don't miss Squire's Castle. Located at North Chagrin Reservation, Squire's Castle was built in the 1890s and patterned after German and English baronial castles. The gatehouse also serves as the trailhead for one of the North Chagrin's more scenic routes, and there's an adjacent picnic area that includes grills and seating. North Chagrin Reservation is open daily from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Case Western Reserve University, 1855 Ansel Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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The design and backstory of Maltz Performing Arts Center are as compelling as the events that take place inside it. Founded in 1850 as a temple for the local Reform Jewish congregation, the building has a unique heptagonal shape to fit the lot's odd configuration while approximating a circle, symbolizing unity. Thanks to the creative architecture and stunning interior, the building was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. A partnership between the Temple and Case Western Reserve University led to the creation of the Performing Arts Center, which hosts a number of concerts, lectures, and other cultural activities.
714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303
While many historical buildings bear the name of their original residents, that's not the case with Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term that translates to "stone quarry," which is a nod to the property's most prominent natural feature. The estate served as the home for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber, but they also generously opened their doors to the public for frequent community events. Hours are 10 a.m. - dusk Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults and $6 for ages 6-17.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
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Natural and man-made history combine to spectacular effect at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The 13-acre facility, located just two miles from downtown Columbus, is anchored by the John D. Wolfe Palm House. This glass greenhouse, which dates back to 1895, features 43 species of palms, including fiddle-leaf figs that were part of the original plantings. Seasonal and visiting exhibitions supplement the lush gardens and botanical biomes on permanent display. Franklin Park Conservatory is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.
145 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130
Do you think of art as something that requires specialized skill or talent? The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio has a mission to awaken the creative spirit in everyone. Programming includes themed exhibits, classes, workshops, and lectures aimed at making art accessible to all. Welcome the new year with the upcoming exhibit, "Hindsight: The Art of Looking Back," which is particularly appropriate for exploring the past. "Classrooms" are located in the Reese-Peters House, a Federal/Greek Revival-style home built in 1835 and widely acclaimed as the finest house in Lancaster. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 1 - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
Arney Run Park, 2340 Meister Rd. SW, Lancaster, OH 43130
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Covered bridges, once a common sight around the countryside, have become rare but treasured relics of the past. Only about one in 10 have survived to the present day, with Mink Hollow Covered Bridge being one of the more picturesque structures. At a length of 54 feet, this charming "house bridge" boasts the longest official name of any bridge in the country: Mink Hollow over Arney Run in Oil Mill Hollow near the Borcher's Mill Covered Bridge. Dog-friendly Arney Run Park is also a great spot for hiking, photography, bird-watching, and picnicking. Park hours are dawn till dusk, 365 days a year.
8070 Tylersville Rd., West Chester, OH 45069
Before social media and television, news and entertainment were transmitted across radio waves. The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting highlights the development and impact of radio technology, both locally and globally. Cincinnati native Powel Crosley Jr., once dubbed "the Henry Ford of radio," was the driving force behind the Bethany Relay Station, which broadcasted from the building that now houses the museum. Other attractions include displays of early wireless transmitters and a fully-equipped ham station where you can observe the workings of shortwave radio. The museum is open weekends from 1 - 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for everyone aged 16 and older.
414 Walnut St. #1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Established in 1835, the Mercantile Library is one of only about two dozen membership libraries that still exist in the country. Spread across the 11th and 12th floors of the building, the library holds more than 80,000 volumes on subjects ranging from contemporary fiction and poetry to travel and history. Harriet Beecher Stowe, Salman Rushdie, and Julia Child are just a few of the exciting guest lecturers who have appeared at the Mercantile. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.
1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409
Kitty Hawk may be the site of their first flights, but the dreams of the Wright Brothers first took hold in their hometown of Dayton. Carillon Historical Park shines a light on the Wright Brothers and other regional pioneers of transportation and industry. The 65-acre open-air museum includes displays such as the Wright Brothers National Museum, Great 1913 Flood Exhibit, and Heritage Center of Dayton Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship. Carillon Historical Park is open 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for ages 3-17.
What site in Ohio is associated with a significant memory from your own past?