
Trains, both toy and real, conjure up pleasant memories of days gone by. Bring a welcome touch of nostalgia to this year's holidays with a visit to these Christmas train rides and displays around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, 400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621
You and your family have loved the book and the movie. Now experience the magic in real life on The Polar Express™ Train Ride at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. Storytellers are on board to read the book as elves lead everyone in games, songs, and other activities. Refreshments include beverages and cookies made by Mrs. Claus. The train makes a stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa, who will visit with the kids during the return trip. Trains run Friday through Sunday on the first two weekends in December. Visit the website for times. Tickets range from $45-$80.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131
View this post on Instagram
Take in the winter beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley on your own North Pole Adventure™. Everyone can enjoy cookies and cocoa as kids write letters to Santa and take part in singing and dancing with elves. When the train stops at the North Pole to hand-deliver the letters, there's a good chance that a special guest will come on board. The train leaves the station at 7:30 p.m. daily through December 19. Tickets are $45-$92.
EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, OH 45069
Remember the joy you felt watching your new model train circle the Christmas tree? Share that delight with your own kids at Christmas at the Junction. In addition to being the home of the world's largest indoor train display, EnterTRAINment Junction is a family fun center revolving around a railroad theme. Christmas at the Junction features a number of holiday train displays along with dazzling decorations, lively activities, and a visit with Santa. Festivities take place through January 2. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors open at noon. Admission is $15.95 per person when purchased in advance on the website.
Zanesville & Scenic Western Railroad, 5705 SR-204, Mt. Perry, OH 43760
During the holidays, the Mt. Perry Scenic Train transforms into the Santa Train. The 40-minute ride follows the historic Glass Rock Spur, named for the days when the line transported silica sand from Central Silica Company in nearby Glenford. Santa, assisted by the conductor, will be handing out gifts and treats along the way. The Santa Train departs each hour between 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the second and third weekends of December. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for ages 3-13. Receive a discount with a donation of food or a new, unwrapped toy.
19201 Puritas Ave., Cleveland, OH 44135
For the 18th year, Puritas Nursery is treating the West Park community to their delightful holiday train display. Three separate train sets, each in a different size, are fascinating to watch for "kids" of all ages. As if that wasn't reason enough to visit Puritas Nursery, you can shop their great selection of mistletoe, wreaths, and holiday greenery, as well as a wide variety of gift items and stocking stuffers. View the trains during store hours, 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends through December 31.
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, OH 45764
View this post on Instagram
Over three decades, generations of families have made the Santa Christmas Train a part of their holiday tradition. Historic Hocking Valley makes a perfect seasonal backdrop for the two-hour trip to East Logan and back. Santa will be along for the ride to visit with each child and collect their wish lists. At the end of the journey, they will also receive a special candy cane treat. Trains run each weekend through December 19. Visit the website for departure times. Tickets are $21 for adults and $16 for ages 3-12.
751 N. Four Mile Run Rd., Austintown, OH 44515
Members of the Youngstown Model Railroad Association love to share their enthusiasm for their favorite hobby with others. One of their more popular activities is their holiday open house, which they have been conducting for more than 65 years. Held at the group's headquarters, the open house features one layout upstairs and another downstairs, with surrounding "towns" that include carnivals and other life-like details. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the first two weekends of December. A $5 donation is requested from all visitors over the age of 11.
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 County Rd. 99, Findlay, OH 45840
Real trains? Toy trains? No need to choose at North Pole Express. Quarter-scale trains are ready to take you through a glittering wonderland of trees and lights. Meanwhile, toy train displays await in the festively decorated museum and train barn. You never know when Santa and Mrs. Claus may pop in for a visit! Activities take place 5:30 - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. Sunday through January 2. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under.
Crocker Park, 172 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, OH 44145
View this post on Instagram
Are your little ones a bit young for an actual train ride? Crocker Park's Express Train provides a healthy dose of excitement for kids who might not be ready for a longer trip. The whole family will enjoy the sight of Crocker Park done up in all its holiday finery. Before or after, kids can visit with Santa and get their picture taken at Santa's Village. The Express Train runs daily through Christmas Eve. Visit the website for hours. Tickets are $4 per person.
In many parts of the world, trains are still a major form of transportation. What exotic location would you travel to by train?

There's nothing quite like enjoying a hot cup of hand-crafted cappuccino on a cold winter's day. When we heard that Cappuccino Day was coming up on November 8th, we decided to start celebrating early by visiting some of the best coffee shops in the Cincinnati area. Next time you're in the mood for a tasty brew, we recommend visiting one of these local hot spots.
24 W. 3rd St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
A downtown location with a cool, relaxed vibe, Lola's Coffee + Bar is a go-to spot for huge cups of super-smooth cappuccino and a variety of coffees, smoothies, beer, wine, and cocktails. The staff here is super friendly and attentive and their menu is full of unique options you won't find anywhere else. If you live, work, or play in the Hyde Park area, you'll definitely want to frequent this incredible location.
4181 Hamilton Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
View this post on Instagram
You'll love this trendy coffee shop located in the heart of Northside, right near Hamilton and Chase. Sidewinder Coffee is an independent neighborhood shop that has been pleasing both locals and visitors for over 15 years. Sourced from small farms worldwide, the coffee at Sidewinder is proudly roasted in-house.
The cappuccino at Sidewinders is top-notch and, if you're hungry, you can also enjoy a selection of food items. The menu features everything from baked goods and breakfast burritos to mac & cheese and black bean burgers.
824 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
For a perfectly made cappuccino and amazing pastries, you can't go wrong with a visit to blaCk Coffee Lounge. As soon as you walk in, you'll be amazed by the incredible scents and the selection of desserts that are so beautiful that you'll almost feel bad taking a bite.
This specialty coffee shop was inspired by both HipHop and the community. It's known as Cincinnati's number one coffee shop for culture. One visit here, and you'll quickly see why.
1215 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
A small but cute coffee shop located in the heart of the Over the Rhine neighborhood, 1215 Wine Bar & Coffee Lab is known around town for its upscale, trendy vibe and incredibly friendly baristas. You'll love their locally roasted coffees and delicious light bites. They also have a beautiful patio where patrons can relax and enjoy their coffee during the warmer months.
8 E. 4th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Founded in 2013, Sleepy Bee Cafe makes an excellent cup of cappuccino and also has a great menu with gluten-free and vegan options. We love the unique ambiance here and the fact that most everything is sourced from farmers and suppliers nearby.
More than just a cafe, this truly is a local gathering place. They also have three locations, so whether you're downtown, in Oakley, or in Blue Ash, you'll be able to pay them a visit.
6557 Gracely Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45233
View this post on Instagram
You'll love the warm and inviting atmosphere at Sayler Park Coffee. This locally owned independent coffee shop serves Deeper Roots Coffee, which is roasted just down the street in the West End neighborhood.
Not only is the cappuccino here delicious, but you'll also feel great about supporting this business. A full 100% of their profits go towards supporting organizations and projects that make a difference in the Sayler Park neighborhood. How awesome is it to know that your daily coffee habit can actually help strengthen the community?
1130 Broadway St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
This bright, multi-level cafe has been a staple in Cincinnati since 2013. They make an amazing cappuccino as well as a variety of other Italian coffee drinks. If you arrive hungry, you'll want to check out their small menu of delicious pastries, breakfast, and lunch items. They even sell peanut butter dog treats! Even better, they also use a portion of their resources to help local animal shelters.
If you love their coffee and want to take some with you, you'll be glad to know they also sell bags of coffee to go, monthly coffee subscriptions, and a selection of cool merch.
801 Mt. Hope Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45204
View this post on Instagram
This hip, art-filled coffee shop is a must-visit location! They make an excellent cup of cappuccino and have a delicious food menu that seems simple but tastes incredible. The upstairs area is also bright and beautiful, making it a great place to bring your laptop and get some work done.
BLOC stands for Believing and Living One Christ — it's based on an inner-city ministry with the same name that wanted to create a safe and welcoming place for people to gather. Since they opened 12 years ago, they've been constantly looking for ways to serve the local community. Every time you visit, you'll help support their mission.
Which of these incredible coffee shops will you try first?

Nothing warms the soul quite like a fresh bowl of pasta topped with your favorite sauce. While spaghetti, tortellini, and fettuccine are a few common favorites, there are actually over 600 different shapes of pasta. Because pasta is so versatile, it's no surprise that it has become such a popular dish all over the world.
Delicious pasta dishes paired with a glass of wine and a cozy, dimly-lit restaurant make for the ultimate dining experience. With World Pasta Day coming up October 25, there couldn't be a better opportunity to set out to find your new favorite dish around Cincinnati. To help, we pulled together a list of some of our favorite local restaurants for pasta.
118 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Enjoy delicious pasta dishes in this one-of-a-kind rustic basement dining room located in downtown Cincinnati. With dishes like Tortellini Con Formaggi, Penne Con Salsiccia, and many others, Sotto is truly a favorite for Ohio pasta lovers. Dinner is accompanied by an extensive cocktail menu, and dozens of wines are available by glass or bottle. You can also top off your meal was some decadent desserts and after-dinner drinks. If you're planning to visit on the weekend, be sure to make a reservation online.
1420 Sycamore St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
Delicious contemporary Italian dishes and a warm cozy atmosphere put this fantastic Over-the-Rhine restaurant near the top of our list. Nicola's Ristorante features a number of delicious pasta dishes all made in-house, as well as several traditional Italian entrees. With great food, a romantic atmosphere, and an extensive wine and bourbon list, Nicola's is a fantastic date night location. If you prefer to dine at home, you can easily order carryout online.
11525 Chester Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45246
Some of the best Italian dining in the area can be found at Vincenzo's, a family-owned-and-operated, classic Cincinnati restaurant. You can expect fantastic food and incredible service. This menu features a wide array of traditional Italian favorites and all of the classic pasta dishes made with fresh ingredients. Dozens of wines are available by the glass or by bottle. Vincenzo's also occasionally hosts live music. The restaurant is open for dinner at 5 pm Tuesday through Saturday.
1501 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
A casual Over-the-Rhine Italian restaurant with family-style dishes, Pepp & Dolores should be at the top of your list for pasta. This restaurant features two dining rooms: a classy, airy main room and a dimly lit, cozy basement dining room. The Beet & Goat Cheese and Duck Ragu are must-tries! The restaurant is open for dinner Monday through Thursday and lunch and dinner Friday through Sunday. You can also order carry out online.
810 Matson Pl, Cincinnati, OH 45204
If you're looking for a fine dining option with some of the best city views, Primavista is a must-try destination. The menu features an assortment of traditional Italian dishes, pastas, and both vegan and gluten-free options. Primavista is also known for its spectacular service, unique atmosphere, and delicious food. The dining room is open for dinner Tuesday through Sunday and reservations are recommended. The entire menu is also available for carryout.
3514 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
View this post on Instagram
Try the spicy Spaghettini Arrabbiata or the delicious Tagliatelle Bolognese at Forno Osteria a popular Italian restaurant in Hyde Park. In addition to pasta, you can also enjoy some firewood brick-oven pizzas and a wide variety of wine and cocktails. Enjoy your dinner in a cozy, unique rustic dining room. For dessert, you have to try the Citrus Semifreddo! Sit at the bar if you'd like to watch the chefs in action. The restaurant is open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday.
308 Ludlow Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45220
A quaint neighborhood bistro serves up a number of your favorite pasta dishes from Penne Boscaiola to Seafood Alfredo. Biagio's Bistro is a unique atmosphere: The chef prepares pasta dishes in a full view kitchen. Expect large portions, great service, and affordable prices. Wine and cocktails are also available. The food is delicious, and prices are affordable, so it's easy to see why this restaurant has become a Cincinnati staple.
520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
View this post on Instagram
Enjoy a fresh bowl of authentic pasta while overlooking Cincinnati's beautiful Fountain Square at Via Vite. This trendy Italian bar and restaurant has been a popular downtown destination since 2007. The Handmade Crispy Gnocchi and the Tagliatelle Bolognese are some of the most popular pasta dishes; however, the menu is constantly changing, so it's always worth stopping by and trying something new. Curbside and carryout are available. Reservations are recommended and can be made online.
600 Washington Ave, Newport, KY 41071
With authentic Italian pasta and some of the most delicious sauces around, it's no wonder Pompilios has been a local favorite since 1933. Not only is this a great place to eat, movie buffs will love the fact that scenes from Rain Man were filmed inside the restaurant. Build your own pasta dish with over 10 types of pasta and 10 homemade sauces. In addition to pasta, Pompilios offers an extensive bourbon, wine, and cocktail list. They also have some of the best Tiramisu in town. Stop-in Tuesday through Saturday or order takeout online.
2724 Erie Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45208
View this post on Instagram
Enjoy your favorite pasta dish in this upscale, elegant dining room. Alfio's Buon Cibo's is truly a romantic experience. The chef's pasta recipes date back several generations, and many entrees have an Argentinean twist, which makes this restaurant truly unique. Alfio's also have a reputation for having some of the best ravioli in town. With fantastic wine, cocktail, and dessert menus, you're sure to have a fantastic dinner. Dine-in Tuesday through Saturday or order carry out online.
Where will you enjoy pasta around Cincinnati this year?

Ever since the first fossils were discovered, they have fascinated people around the world by providing a glimpse into what life so many years ago. Our knowledge of the past has been shaped by the many fossils discovered around the world. With National Fossil Day coming up on the second Wednesday of October, now is the perfect time to discover the amazing world of fossils. Whether you're in Columbus, Northeast Ohio, or Cincinnati, there are tons of great places to explore fossils around Ohio.
1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203
Do your kids love dinosaurs? Trick question – of course, they do! The Cincinnati Museum Center is home to a variety of fascinating, family-friendly museums, including the Dinosaur Hall, where kids can learn all about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed Ohio. The Dinosaur Hall exhibit is home to 6 massive, nearly complete dinosaur skeletons, displayed in all of their glory. There are a variety of interactive elements that make it easy to learn more, and the museum showcases mostly specimens from the late Jurassic period. Many of the fossils on display here are part of ongoing scientific research, with new discoveries being made regularly.
11935 Tramway Dr., Sharonville, OH 45241
View this post on Instagram
Located just outside of Cincinnati, Trammel Fossil Park is one of the few places in Ohio where you can dig for your own fossils and take them home. The park is located in 10 acres of land, which has never been disturbed by development, and was donated by a local family. It's one of the safest, most accessible places in Ohio to dig for fossils, and there are tons of specimens in excellent condition to be found here. Trammel Fossil Park is a popular place for school field trips and a great place for families to visit anytime.
1267 E. Xenia Dr., Fairborn, OH 45234
With a central location between Columbus and Cincinnati, Oakes Quarry Park surrounds a historic limestone mine filled with natural beauty. The mining activities here helped expose many of the fossils that were once buried deep underground, and the entire park is filled with trails that make it easy to explore every corner. While you're searching for fossils, you're also likely to see a variety of birds and other wildlife in a thriving natural habitat. Just be sure to collect only fossils from designated fossil collection piles, which can be found throughout the park.
1 Wade Oval Dr., Cleveland, OH 44106
View this post on Instagram
For kids and adults alike, there are few better places to learn about ancient animals than the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. The museum has been celebrating historic finds for more than 100 years, with an extensive selection of exhibits on creatures from Ohio and points far beyond. Families with kids will love exploring the Smead Discovery Center, which has a variety of exhibits geared toward kids age 10 and under. The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is currently undergoing a large renovation, which will add new exhibits and re-imagine existing ones. But don't worry, the museum will be open throughout the construction project, and there's plenty to see no matter when you visit.
2080 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd., Copley, OH 44321
Just outside of Akron, you will find the Akron Fossils & Science Center, which was recently voted as the top children's museum in all of Northeast Ohio. There are two separate branches of the facility, one dedicated to hands-on science experiences for all ages and one focused on the creation of the universe. There's also an outdoor park with even more learning opportunities. Your admission grants access to all three areas, along with guided tours for each area. There are tons of opportunities to get hands-on with fossils while learning from a talented team of educators with a variety of backgrounds.
333 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
View this post on Instagram
Ever wonder what it would be like to see a young T. rex walking across the plains of Ohio? The Dinosaur Gallery at the Center of Science & Industry features a six-foot-long model of a T. rex that walks in place, and that's just the start of what you'll find here. There are exhibits on a wide variety of dinosaurs, featuring fossils that have been beautifully preserved and plenty of educational information on each fossil. There's also a full-size, climbable model of an ancient Oviraptor nest and a 100-million-year-old piece of fossilized amber, which has an ancient feather preserved inside.
8570 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068
One of the best places to dig for your own fossils in Ohio, the Caesar Creek State Park Spillway is home to a vast collection of fossils from the Ordovician period hundreds of millions of years ago. At that time, the entire area was covered by a large inland waterway and was home to a thriving coral reef filled with aquatic species. While the inland sea and reef are long gone, many of the fossils from that time period are still around to be discovered in the present day. Before you start hunting for fossils, make sure that you stop by the visitor's center to get a permit, which is available free of charge and comes with some handy guides for collecting and identifying fossils.
155 S. Oval Mall, Columbus, OH 43210
View this post on Instagram
The Orton Geological Museum is located on the historic Ohio State University campus, filled with fossils and other incredibly interesting exhibits. There are frequent talks from fossil experts from the Ohio State University faculty and other experts from around the world. If you can't make it to the museum in person, there are also some great digital programs available for free. This year, there's a unique digital exhibit on Ohio fossils, put together in honor of National Fossil Day. Best of all, the digital exhibits are free to view whenever you want to see them.
Ohio is one of the best states for fossil hunting. Which destination will you investigate first?

Fall has arrived, which means it's time for pumpkins, apples, and corn mazes. Getting lost in a corn maze can make for some great fall fun. Wondering whether you've turned the right way, feeling like you're going in circles, singing songs about the corn — it's all a part of the process. There are lots of great corn mazes in Ohio. Here are some of the mazes most worth visiting as the autumn leaves start to fall.
Derthick's Corn Maze is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through October 31, 2021. There are actually two mazes on-site. One is a bit shorter, and one is a bit longer. You can work your way through one or both, using clues found along the way to guide you.
In addition to a corn maze, this farm offers other fun activities like sunflower picking, a cow train, a petting zoo, and a zip line. There are often food trucks on-site so you can enjoy snacks or a tasty drink.
View this post on Instagram
If you're in the Northeast Ohio area, this is definitely one of the top corn mazes to visit. In 2018, it was voted the Best Corn Maze in the Nation by USA Today. Each year, the maze has a different theme. For 2021, the theme is Snow White.
Maze Craze will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31. There are a few special events throughout the season, including a Wine and Cider Adventure on October 7 and 14th. In addition to the corn maze, Maze Craze offers a hayride, corn hole games, a straw maze for little ones, and a tractor playground.
Regal Vineyards is primarily a winery, but each year, they also organize a top-notch corn maze. The maze stretches over 8 acres and is open Saturdays and Sundays through October 31. On Friday and Saturday nights from 7 - 10 pm, the corn maze becomes haunted for an even more intense experience!
In addition to the corn maze, Regal Vineyards offers lots of other fun family activities like duck races, hayrides, pumpkin bowling, and a jumping pillow. Concessions are available on-site, and there's a gift shop where you can buy various farm souvenirs.
View this post on Instagram
Lynd Fruit Farm offers one of the biggest corn mazes near Columbus. The theme this year is the 7 Seas. As you navigate the maze, you can pretend you are a pirate sailing on waves of corn and fighting off sea monsters. The maze is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the maze.
After navigating the maze, you can play Giant Jenga, take a wagon ride, or pick some apples. There's also a climbing wall for kids.
The Maize at Little Darby Creek is entering its 20th year, and it's shaping up to be a nice one. This year's 8-acre corn maze design honors Jack Nicklaus, an internationally renowned golfer from Ohio. It will be open to visitors Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31st.
Along with the price of admission, you also get to enjoy a petting zoo, laser tag, a low ropes course, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, and tetherball, along with other family-friendly activities.
View this post on Instagram
If you're looking for a quieter experience, then Hendren Farm Market is a great place to visit. They have an 8-acre corn maze behind the farm market. There are clues hidden throughout the maze to help you solve a mystery as you find your way through.
After going through the maze, you can shop for farm-grown goodies in the market. Along with pumpkins, apples, and other fall produce, you'll find cinnamon rolls, honey, syrup, and beef jerky.
Tom's Maze is open Thursday-Sunday through October 30. This is their 24th year of running the maze, and it's shaping up to be a good one. The maze stretches over 8 acres of cornfields. There are 12 different puzzles to solve along the way, each of which is found inside a colorful mailbox.
In addition to the typical corn maze experience, Tom's Maze offers private campfire packages. You can pay ahead to rent a campfire site for you and your family to enjoy. This can be a fun way to spend more time together after playing in the corn maze.
View this post on Instagram
Burwinkle Farms has been a staple in the Cincinnati area for 100 years. They operate several farm properties in the area, growing everything from strawberries to apples. In the fall, they transform their Ross farm into a Fall Extravaganza. The corn maze is a key attraction, but there is also a corn pool, haunted hayrides, and a Halloween scavenger hunt. There are lots of fun fall scenes where you can snap memorable photos of yourself and your family.
Burwinkle Farms also has a farm stand on-site. You can purchase sweet corn, melons, potatoes, and other locally grown goods to cook at home.
If you have kids, then Brown's Family Farm Market is a great place to enjoy a corn maze. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and you can go through the maze at your own pace. In addition to the maze, there's a miniature town where the kids can play. There's also a smaller straw maze that makes for a shorter maze experience.
The farm stand also sells pumpkins and Amish fry pies, which are a delicious fall treat. There's also a picnic area that you can reserve ahead of time if desired. You could go through the maze and then enjoy a picnic lunch together.
Which one of these corn mazes will you get lost in this fall? Let us know when you find your way out.