
Lazy rivers, coursing streams, meandering creeks – Ohio has a lot to offer when it comes to great paddling water. If you're in search of a place for your next kayak adventure in the Buckeye State, then you're in luck! These nine Ohio rivers flow through landscapes ranging from remote countryside to urban centers, but they all have one thing in common: they're great places to explore by kayak.
320 Victor Stier Dr., Milford, OH 45150
One of Ohio's best paddling streams flows right through Cincinnati and its outlying suburbs. The Little Miami River is a picturesque, meandering stream that traverses an ever-changing landscape ranging from open countryside and secluded forests to small towns and urban communities. It also has some of the cleanest water in the state, and in 1973 was designated Ohio's first National Scenic River. There are dozens of great access points along the way, but the Little Miami River Access site in Milford, OH is a great place to start. Scenic River Canoe Excursions also offers guided trips in the area.
View this post on Instagram
The Cuyahoga River winds through the heart of Northeast Ohio. It begins as barely a trickle but grows steadily until it becomes a broad, mighty watercourse when it enters Lake Erie in Cleveland. One of the best places to explore the Cuyahoga by kayak is the Kent, OH area, where the river tumbles between rock walls and is shaded by a canopy of trees that hide it from the suburbs beyond. John Brown Tannery Park is a great launch site in Kent and also serves as a hub for Crooked River Adventures, which offers guided river trips. This section of the Cuyahoga River can be challenging during full spring flow, but by summer, the waters are typically slow and easily navigable.
5172 Jackson Pike, Grove City, OH 43123
The Scioto River is the longest river that lies entirely within the state of Ohio. It traverses 231 miles through the heart of the state, passing through Columbus on its way to meet the Ohio River at the state line. There are a lot of great kayaking opportunities along the Scioto's course. Paddlers in the Columbus area are fond of Scioto Grove Metro Park, a beautiful 620-acre urban oasis in the city that offers two launch sites – one at either end of the park – for easy put-in and take-out. The Scioto River is also known for great catfish and smallmouth bass fishing, so you might want to pack a rod and reel.
1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway, OH 43119
View this post on Instagram
The charming Big Darby Creek is like a magnet to canoe and kayak enthusiasts in the Columbus area. The creek flows 84 miles through Union and Madison Counties, eventually feeding the Scioto River. Along the way are numerous places to launch a kayak, Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park being a local favorite. Darby Creek is surprisingly wild considering its proximity to the city. It's not uncommon to see beaver cuttings along the shoreline and turtles sunning themselves on rocks and trees near the bank. The park's official put-in site is just off Alkire Road, near the confluence of Big Darby Creek and Little Darby Creek.
3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842
The Mohican River flows through a landscape of secluded forests that looks as though it has been virtually unchanged since the first pioneers settled Ohio. Located about halfway between Columbus and Cleveland, Mohican State Park is a great place to explore the river. The park marks the spot where the Clear Fork Mohican River and the Black Fork Mohican River meet to form the river's main stem, and there are abundant kayaking opportunities in the area. It's a truly charming corner of the state. In addition to the state park, nearby Mohican Adventures Canoe Livery and River Zen Campground & Launch offer launch sites and camping.
1122 Harpersfield Rd., Geneva, OH 44041
View this post on Instagram
The Grand River meanders through 102 miles of Northeast Ohio's Trumbull, Ashtabula, and Lake counties, passing through mostly picturesque rural communities on its way toward Lake Erie. It's a broad and tranquil river in summer and fall, perfect for paddling. Harpersfield Covered Bridge Metro Park is a popular place to put in, and launching here provides an opportunity to paddle under one of Ohio's oldest and longest covered bridges. From here, it's about 8 miles downriver to Hidden Valley Metro Park, and this section includes a scenic river gorge. Guided trips are available through Grand River Canoe Livery.
316 W. North Bend Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45216
Offering a great stretch of urban paddling, Mill Creek flows through the heart of Cincinnati and is accessible at several spots along the way. It's a beautiful stream that offers a unique perspective of the city that few ever see. A local organization of paddling enthusiasts known as the Mill Creek Yacht Club helps maintain the stream and organizes group kayaking events. Put-in at the Playground at Caldwell Nature Center for a float trip through the city down to the next take-out at Millcreek Road, or continue down to Evans Recreation Area, the last stop before the Mill Creek Barrier Dam.
75 N. Leavitt Rd. NW, Leavittsburg, OH 44430
View this post on Instagram
Drifting lazily through Northeast Ohio (and a bit of Western Pennsylvania), the Mahoning River snakes through tranquil forests, open farmland, quiet communities, and industrial landscapes alike. It's become an increasingly popular paddling stream in recent years, and the aptly named Canoe City Metro Park in Leavittsburg is an ideal place to get on the water. The park includes an easily accessible public launch and is a starting point for guided trips through Mahoning River Adventures. Wetlands along the river are popular for bird watching as well.
2000 US-40, Vandalia, OH 45377
Crisscrossing Southwestern Ohio for 160 miles before emptying into the Ohio River west of Cincinnati, the Great Miami River offers some of the best kayak water in the Cincy area. The river offers an established paddling route, known as the Great Miami River Water Trail, including numerous parks, access areas, and various put-ins and take-out spots along this beautiful, slow-rolling river. Taylorsville Metro Park and Island Metro Park – both in the Dayton area – offer excellent kayak launch sites that are part of the water trail, as well as riverside campsites that are open to paddlers.
Ohio has a lot of great paddling spots, including some we may have missed. Let us know your favorites in the comments section below!

Do you love classic cars and fun community events that the whole family can enjoy? September is the perfect time to start rolling into fall and is one of the biggest months of the year for classic car shows in Northeast Ohio and beyond. There are also tons of great car shows to enjoy in Columbus and Cincinnati, where you can show off your own ride or spend the day exploring classic cars restored by members of the community. Find the wheels of your dreams at any of these 9 classic car shows taking place throughout Ohio this September.
2495 Romig Rd., Akron, OH 44320
Stop by Beanhead Brothers Coffee every Saturday in September from 9 AM to 2 PM for a car show featuring classic cars, exotic cars, and custom builds. Weekly car shows are a great option because they allow you to get to know the community and see new cars every week. During the event, you can enjoy some fantastic coffee, sandwiches, and tasty desserts from the coffee shop while you check out some of Akron's most impressive classic cars.
2610 Easton St. NE, Canton, OH 44721
View this post on Instagram
Bring some fun to your Monday with a stop at the Oakwood Square Plaza Cruise-in, which takes place every Monday evening in September from 5 PM to 8 PM. Check out the beautiful Oakwood Square Plaza and explore a new collection of classic cars every week. There will be a live DJ playing hits from yesterday and today, along with the usual activities at the park for family members of all ages to enjoy. You will also find many great local businesses around Oakwood Square Plaza to explore before and after the show.
111 E. Park St., Chardon, OH 44024
This year marks the 11th Annual Chardon Area Chamber of Commerce Car & Bike Show, with the 2021 edition taking place on September 19 from 10 AM to 2 PM at Chardon's Heritage House. Local vendors will be serving excellent food throughout the day, and you can enjoy some live music while you check out some of the most impressive classic and custom cars in Northeast Ohio. There will also be a 50/50 raffle and an auction with some very special items that you can bid to take home.
1 N. High St., Dublin, OH 43017
Celebrate Labor Day Weekend in style when you visit the second annual Dublin AM Rotary Classic Car Show on September 5 from 9 AM through 3 PM. In addition to all of the usual prizes, this event has a special award for cars worked on by high school students. Any student with a valid high school student ID can enter a car of any make or model for free, so this is a great opportunity to get young car enthusiasts involved with the show.
60 W. Castle Rd., Columbus, OH 43207
View this post on Instagram
The Shamrock Club of Columbus Classic Car Show is back for another exciting year, with classic cars, great prizes, and live music to enjoy all day. This year's event takes place on September 26 from 11 AM to 4 PM at the Shamrock Club. There will be tons of trophies for the best cars, trucks, and bikes, as well as some great door prizes that everyone who shows up is eligible to win. Registration starts in the morning, and prizes will be announced at the end of the show.
131 State Rt. 3, Sunbury, OH 43074
A long-time event returns with the 32nd Annual Country Cruise-In, presented by the Sunbury Ohio Lions Club on September 26 starting at 9 AM. This is always one of the biggest car shows in the Columbus area, with tons of classic cars and trucks to see all day long. Online registration is available for the first time this year, making it easier than ever to register your own car for the show.
671 Old State Rt. 74, Cincinnati, OH 45245
Get ready for some family fun at the Sunset Cruise-In, which you can enjoy every Tuesday evening from 7 PM to 9 PM all September long. This is a family-friendly event and a great place to bring your own classic car project to get input from a friendly, knowledgeable community. Every week also features a different local food truck on-site and a DJ playing music to set the stage for family fun.
6375 Harrison Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45247
View this post on Instagram
The annual Green Township Car show is coming up on September 11 from 9 AM to 3 PM at the Diamond Oaks Career Campus, with a full day of fun for the whole family. All makes and models are welcome in this show, so there will be something to enjoy for every classic car enthusiast. There will be live music, delicious food, and tons of prizes to win even if you don't enter a car into the show. The fun starts in the morning, and trophies will be awarded later in the afternoon.
301 Wessel Dr., Fairfield, OH 45014
One of Fairfield's favorite family events, the annual Village Green Car Show, returns to Village Green Park on September 11 from 3:30 PM to 10 PM. Check out a diverse collection of classic cars and motorcycles, then set up a chair on the lawn to enjoy some live music on the big stage. There will be more than 50 trophies handed out for the best vehicles in the show, along with 75 kids-choice ribbons that allow younger visitors to get involved in the show.
Which classic car show will you cruise in to enjoy this September?

Disc golf is a fun sport that groups of all ages can play together while enjoying the outdoors and getting some exercise. It costs very little to get started, and most courses are free or cost just a few dollars to play, and a three-pack of discs that's good for beginners costs about $20. Although you could technically play with a Frisbee, discs made specifically for the sport are smaller and heavier, so you can throw them for much longer distances. If you become more serious about disc golf, you can buy more discs of different types and at a higher price level if you'd like.
Whether you're an experienced disc golfer or you've never played before, you'll have plenty of fun courses to play on around Ohio. Each has its own unique layout and characteristics, and you'll soon develop a list of your favorites.
Check out the following disc golf courses around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
1592 N. Crater Ave., Dover, OH 44622
Beautiful scenery and many hills make for an enjoyable yet challenging play at this 18-hole course in Dover. The course is well-maintained, and every hole offers three distinct tees. More seasoned players will appreciate the added difficulty of wooded areas. Be sure to bring plenty of water as this course requires a good amount of walking to complete.
1097-1219 Goodyear Park Blvd., Mogadore, OH 44260
View this post on Instagram
In addition to several picnic shelters, paved trails, and ball courts, Wingfoot Lake is home to an 18-hole disc golf course. When you're done playing this challenging par 3 course, be sure to take a stroll to the nature center, have a picnic lunch, and let the kids have fun on the playground. Wingfoot also features the Storybook Trail, which includes views of the pond, trees, and Wingfoot Lake as you take in a storybook along the way.
If you're a disc golf novice, you might want to start with the 9-hole course at Osborne Park in Willoughby. While trees or steep hills make some holes more challenging, beginners will appreciate a nice mix of different lengths and difficulty. All players will appreciate the beautiful water views of Lake Erie. The course begins at the rear parking lot.
2933 Riverside Dr., Columbus, OH 43221
The disc golf course at Griggs Reservoir Park is made up of 18 holes with large concrete tee pads. Most of the course is long and narrow with lots of mature trees, although some are open. You'll play through some creative features like boulders and bunkers as you make your way through the course, which runs parallel to the Scioto River. On holes 8, 17, and 18, the river factors into play, making the course more interesting. And if you need to buy some discs, you can find them nearby at the Disc Golf Mart.
4151 Central College Rd., Westerville, OH 43081
View this post on Instagram
This 18-hole course is a good mix of flat areas as well as hilly ones and has some nice scenic views. It can often be windy, so you may want to bring along a jacket when the weather's cooler. On the back 9, the course has thick trees and a lot of blind holes. It has multiple tees and pin positions, and tees are concrete. The course is also the home of an annual tournament in honor of Brent Hambrick, a local disc golfer who passed away from leukemia.
1950 Walnut Hill Blvd, Columbus, OH 43232
The old Walnut Hill traditional golf course has found new life as a disc golf course. It's designed to be a putt and approach practice course that the whole family can enjoy. Property owned by individuals is located next to the course, so take care to avoid sailing an errant disc onto private property.
3251 Brookline Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220
The Burnet Woods course is located across from the University of Cincinnati's campus. It's a short course with 9 holes and has dirt tees with wooden planks to indicate tees. It's generally rated as a good course that has some added difficulty due to mature trees, elevation, and challenging pin placements.
4800 Lodge Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45233
View this post on Instagram
This course is considered to be pro-caliber, having hosted several world tournaments in the past. The layout is 20 holes, having grown from just 9 holes when the course was opened. You'll find distinct fairways, thick rough, and many elevation changes as you make your way through the course.
7950 Bridle Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45244
Beginners and advanced players alike will enjoy the Johnson Hills Park course, as it serves as a good challenge for beginners and a fun practice course for those with more experience You'll be able to catch some nice shade on hot, sunny days as you play your way through long, open holes and wooded technical holes on Johnson Hill Park's rolling hills.
Do you have a favorite disc golf course in or around Ohio? Let us know!

With a charming mix of carnival rides, farm animals, and tasty food treats, county fairs are an iconic part of Midwest summers. In Ohio, these lively events date back literally hundreds of years. Mark your calendar for these must-see county fairs in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
735 W. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256
Better late than never! After a year off, the Medina County Fair is celebrating its 175th anniversary during its 176th year. Traditional events, such as the popular livestock shows and bull riding contest, pay tribute to the fair's past. Live concerts, drag racing, and motocross are some of the entertainment options that highlight Medina's present. Kids can show off their creativity in coloring, art, writing, and hay bale decorating contests. The Medina County Fair runs from Monday, August 2 through Sunday, August 8. Admission is $7 for everyone 12 and over and $3 for kids aged 2-11.
23000 Fairgrounds Rd., Wellington, OH 44090
View this post on Instagram
Another Northeast Ohio tradition observes a milestone as the Lorain County Fair, second largest in the state, reaches its 175th year. Each summer, people head to the fair for one last celebration before Labor Day leads into fall. One of the event's goals is to educate the public about animals with showings of horses, sheep, and poultry, along with auctions and skill demonstrations. Evening entertainment includes live music, derbies, and a rodeo. Enjoy thrilling midway rides for only $1 each or $20 for unlimited rides. Gates open at 8 a.m. each day from Sunday, August 22 to Sunday, August 29. Admission is $6, with no charge for kids aged 8 and under. A $30 season pass is good for seven admissions.
14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton, OH 44021
The Great Geauga County Fair is just shy of two centuries, but it's twice as much fun as fairs half its age. Founded in 1823, the Great Geauga is the oldest continuous county fair in the state as well as one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the United States. There's fun for the whole family at the Natural Resource Area, which features demonstrations and activities centered around wildlife and environmental awareness. And what's a fair without an apple pie-eating contest? If you're feeling lucky, try your hand at the other family-friendly competitions, including Diaper Dash, Kiddie Tractor Pull, and 4-H 5K. The fair takes place Thursday, September 2 through Monday, September 6. Admission is $10 for ages 7 and above. Buy advance tickets online to save $2 and avoid the lines.
14028 Fairgrounds Rd., Croton, OH 43013
View this post on Instagram
Billed as the "Biggest Little Fair in the World," the Hartford Fair encompasses Licking County along with portions of Delaware and Knox counties. The fair also has a reputation as a reunion spot, as families use the occasion for annual gatherings of relatives from across the distance. Fans of motorsports are in seventh heaven with truck and tractor pulls, autocross, demolition derbies, and monster truck rallies. Even during the fair's earlier days, racing was the main attraction, including a foot race when Maggie McComb beat out William Lane. Fair days run from Sunday, August 8 through Saturday, August 14. Admission is $8 for ages 8 and above.
236 Pennsylvania Ave., Delaware, OH 43015
Who says the outdoor fun has to end with summer? Enjoy some post-Labor Day delights at the Delaware County Fair. Horses are the main event here, starting with the parade that kicks off the festivities and right up to the Little Brown Jug, the fair's signature harness race. The impressive motorsports complex is the site of demolition derbies, truck pulls, and even school bus races. With a wide range of activities from eating contests and putt-putt golf to scavenger hunts and kids' crafts, there's something for everyone. This year's fair is scheduled for Saturday, September 18 through Saturday, September 25.
14134 Letson Ave., Kenton, OH 43326
View this post on Instagram
September means back to school, and kids won't need any encouragement to attend the "classroom" at the Hardin County Fair. One of the top activities is COSI on Wheels, a traveling outreach program that offers a variety of dynamic interactive experiments. A petting zoo and Columbus Zoo exhibit provide opportunities to get up close and personal with some fascinating animals and birds. Eli the Magician stars in two shows a day and strolls the grounds, delighting fairgoers with amazing tricks. These activities are all included in fair admission, which is $10 for everyone aged 9 and older. Fair dates are Tuesday, September 7 through Sunday, September 12.
7700 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45216
Situated on 30 acres just north of Cincinnati, the Hamilton County Fair creates an interesting juxtaposition of agricultural and urban landscapes. City slickers get to learn about life on the farm, including a chance to try their hand at milking a cow. This year's grandstand events include go-kart racing and a soccer mom derby. Fire up your oven and prepare your best pies, cookies, breads, and cakes for the baking competitions. The Hamilton County Fair runs from Thursday, August 12 through Sunday, August 15. Admission is $10 per person, which includes all rides.
2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, OH 45804
View this post on Instagram
On October 21, 1851, it was reported that a "vast throng" attended the first Allen County Fair at Faurot Farm. Today, more than 200,000 visitors attend the annual event, making it one of the top fairs in the state. One of the biggest draws is the top-name entertainment that takes the main stage each year. Vince Gill, Def Leppard, Alabama, and Reba McEntire are just a few of the stars who have appeared at the Allen County Fair. 2021 is no exception, with Brad Paisley as the headliner. Fair days are Friday, August 20 through Saturday, August 28. Admission is $7 for ages 7 and up.
384 Park Ave., Urbana, OH 43078
The Champaign County Fair includes livestock shows, craft exhibits, and other traditional fair activities, but this year's event will also be a classic rock lover's dream. Opening night features a three-hour extravaganza with Beatles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute bands. Fair dates are Friday, August 6 through Friday, August 13. Admission of $8 includes rides, while tickets for Rock the Fair are an additional $10.
Fair food is so popular that it has its own show on Food Network. What's the most memorable food you've eaten at a fair?

It's almost time to celebrate the Fourth of July in Ohio, and many of your favorite events will be returning for Independence Day in 2021. Whether you're interested in fireworks, music, educational family fun, fantastic food, or all of the above, you're sure to find the perfect celebration in one of Ohio's many vibrant communities. We don't want you to miss any of the action on the biggest holiday of the summer, so we've put together a guide to some of the best Fourth of July events in the Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati areas that offer something for every member of the family to enjoy.
Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica Boardwalk – 2014 Sycamore St., Cleveland, OH 44113
The annual Light Up the Lake fireworks celebration can be viewed from a variety of great destinations throughout downtown Cleveland, including the beautiful Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica Boardwalk. This event is always a favorite for Northeast Ohio residents, with plenty of activities to enjoy downtown before the fireworks and festivities begin. As an open-air amphitheater with abundant lawn seating that's perfect for a Fourth of July picnic, Jacobs Pavilion is a great place to take in the sights of the evening. But if you have another favorite location, it's easy to see the fireworks display from anywhere downtown.
View this post on Instagram
Get ready for a full day of family fun in downtown Wadsworth with the First Friday: Celebrate America event for the Fourth of July. Enjoy specials and activities at more than 30 local businesses in downtown Wadsworth, then be sure to save room for dinner! There will be various great food trucks on-site serving all of your favorite dishes from Ohio and beyond. After dinner, settle in for one of Ohio's best fireworks shows, with fantastic views available from a variety of scenic locations downtown.
Sippo Lake Park – 5712 12th St. NW, Canton, OH 44708
Looking for a fun, unique way to keep younger members of the family entertained before the big fireworks shows on the Fourth of July? Kids are sure to love exploring the exciting, educational Red, White, & Blue Flag Avenue at Sippo Lake Park. Walk through the scenic park lined with flags as your kids learn all about the different red, white, and blue species of animals that call Ohio home, then wrap up your trip with a visit to the Wildlife Conservation Center. This event is available to be enjoyed every day during park hours for the two weeks around the Fourth of July holiday.
Thomas Worthington High School – 300 W. Dublin Granville Rd., Worthington, OH 43085
While Worthington's annual Rotary Family Picnic is delayed until Labor Day this year, you can still enjoy a festive fireworks display. The Thomas Worthington High School grounds will give viewers plenty of room to watch the annual celebration of the nation's independence. In addition to the stadium, the front lawn and other areas surrounding the venue will be available to attendees. In case of severe weather, the fireworks will be rescheduled with a rain date of Sept. 5th.
New Albany Middle School Greenspace – 6600 E. Dublin Granville Rd., New Albany, OH 43054
View this post on Instagram
The New Albany Independence Day Parade & Festival has a special theme this year, with frontline healthcare workers and first responders being honored throughout the day. After the parade, head to New Albany Middle School for a family-friendly festival that includes games for kids, costumed characters, live music, and food from some of Ohio's best food trucks.
Dublin Community Recreation Center – 5600 Post Rd., Dublin, OH 43017
The City of Dublin Independence Day Celebration features a full day of fun and special events around the city. Whether you're watching or participating, the annual Shem Sheldon Fishing Derby is the perfect way to spend your morning. The Fourth of July Parade is up next, with a parade route that runs throughout downtown Dublin. After the parade, there will be more than five hours of live music from a diverse selection of bands before the evening wraps up with Dublin's annual fireworks display.
705 E. Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
If you love live music, you won't want to miss the Sawyer Point Summer Concert Series Fourth of July Celebration this year. The fun starts in the afternoon, with live performances from four different bands that will last well into the evening. There will be plenty of delicious food and drink to enjoy throughout, with a fantastic fireworks display set to follow all of the live music.
6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
View this post on Instagram
Enjoy a family evening out at the amusement park on July 3 and experience one of the more unique Cincinnati Fourth of July celebrations at the Coney Island Park Balloon Glow. The show starts with over a dozen colorful, well-lit hot air balloons taking to the sky above the amusement park, which you can enjoy while experiencing all of the attractions that the park has to offer. After the balloons, there will be a spectacular fireworks finale to cap off an evening of family fun at the amusement park.
4200 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45251
Get ready for a night of amazing live music and a fantastic fireworks display at the Colerain Township Fourth of July Spectacular. This event is free for everyone to enjoy, and the fun starts with an evening of music from the Classic Rock Experience. They'll be playing all of the hits from the '70s and '80s in an outdoor concert, providing the perfect way to get warmed up for the grand finale. After the concert, the skies will light up with a dazzling display of fireworks to close out the evening.
Independence Day celebrations are back with a bang for 2021! Which one will you attend?