Posts with tag 'Things to do in Columbus'
23
9 Places to Find a Christmas Tree Around Ohio
Is heading to the Christmas tree farm or lot with the family to pick a perfect tree one of your favorite holiday traditions? Ohio offers so many great Christmas tree farms to choose from, whether you're from Columbus, live in Cincinnati, or are celebrating the holidays in Northeast Ohio. Start your search for the perfect tree with our guide to nine Christmas tree farms around Ohio and Northern Kentucky.
The Farms at Pine Tree Barn
4338 Shreve Rd., Wooster, OH 44691
One of Ohio's oldest and largest Christmas tree farms, The Farms at Pine Tree Barn is an excellent place to shop if you want to maximize your selection. There are more than 75,000 Christmas trees to choose from on this 150-acre farm, along with wreaths, boughs, roping, and swags. After you pick out your tree, be sure to check out the other activities, like rides on the Pine Tree Express, family holiday photo sessions, horse-drawn carriage rides, sledding, and dining at the Village Cafe.
Sugar Pines Farm
9500 Mulberry Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
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With both cut-your-own and pre-cut Christmas trees available, Sugar Pines Farm makes it easy to fit tree shopping into your busy schedule. Of course, you might want to leave some time to enjoy the other activities available during the holidays on this 100-acre farm. Take a ride around the scenic farm on the hay wagon, or settle in by the warm comfort of the fire with kettle corn, hot chocolate, and all sorts of other holiday treats. Santa will also be making appearances at Sugar Pines Farm on December 3 and 10 from 1 p.m. through 4 p.m.
Galehouse Tree Farm
11762 Coal Bank Rd., Doylestown, OH 44230
Whether you want a pre-cut tree, a cut-your-own-tree experience, or even wholesale-cut Christmas trees, the team at Galehouse Tree Farm has you covered. They're open every day from November 1 through December 23, with tons of ready-cut trees to browse at the Tree House Gift Shop for a convenient shopping experience. The Tree House is more than just a place to find your next tree. It's a shop filled with little holiday wonders to decorate your home, from ornaments to lights, figurines, and lovely, rustic country décor.
Cackler Family Farms
4971 Cackler Rd., Delaware, OH 43015
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Since 1989, Cackler Family Farms has been helping families in the Cincinnati area celebrate their favorite holiday traditions. The combination of an extensive selection, friendly, personalized service, and reasonable prices keeps many families coming back here year after year. If you're planning to shop here, be aware that reservations are required for the 2022 holiday season, and you can easily make your reservation on the Cackler Family Farms website.
HTH Christmas Tree Lot
2340 W. Dublin Granville Rd., Linworth, OH 43235
In addition to choosing from a wide selection of Fraser Fir, Scotch Pine, and Douglas Fir trees of all sizes, shopping at the HTH Christmas Tree Lot is also a way to support a good cause during the holiday season. The non-profit Hope Thru Housing organization operates this lot, and all proceeds are donated to the cause. While you're there, be sure to check out the selection of wreaths, garland, tree stands, and other items to help decorate your home.
Timbuk Farms Christmas Tree Farm
2030 Timbuk Rd., Granville, OH 43023
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For a full family tree shopping experience, it's tough to top what you'll find at the Timbuk Farms Christmas Tree Farm. Shop from a huge selection of locally grown trees, then check out fun holiday activities like Santas Sleigh, the photo fun park, an antique car collection, and a giant haystack for the kids to climb. Stop by the Timbuk Lodge to warm up by a crackling fire, shop for holiday gifts, and enjoy some delicious seasonal refreshments on the weekends.
John T. Nieman Nursery & Landscaping
3215 Hamilton New London Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013
For stress-free, professional service while Christmas tree shopping, the team at John T. Nieman Nursery & Landscaping has you covered. They've been in business for over 75 years, with over 60,000 trees currently growing on the 125-acre farm. Head to the fields to pick the perfect tree, then the team will help you cut, shake, haul, and secure your tree to your vehicle. The Christmas Barn is where you can shop for all of your other holiday decorating needs while enjoying complimentary hot chocolate and cookies.
Corsi Tree Farm
1651 Bolender Rd., Hamersville, OH 45130
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A convenient, hassle-free experience is what you can expect when you visit Corsi Tree Farm, where every tree, no matter the size, is priced at $75. Stop by on a chilly fall day to cut your own tree, then head to the Broken Stone lodge to warm up with a cup of hot chocolate and a bowl of authentic Italian chili. There's also a free petting zoo for the kids and live music on the weekends.
Tom Mitts Christmas Trees
625 Monmouth St., Newport, KY 41071
Serving Newport, KY, and the greater Cincinnati area for more than 50 years, Tom Mitts Christmas Trees offers an outstanding selection of trees from its convenient location in the heart of Newport. The shop is open every day from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. while supplies last, with trees ranging in size from 3 feet to over 14 feet. You can also pick up handy supplies like tree stands, nets, garland, and wreaths, along with free candy canes for the kids.
Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree
With so many great farms to choose from, where will you pick your own tree this year?
16
The Nutcracker: 8 Places to See It Around Ohio
People around the world love going out to see a performance of The Nutcracker at Christmastime. Whether it's a yearly tradition for your family or something you've always wanted to experience, you don't have to go far from home to see a performance of this classic ballet.
From high-production traditional versions to newer interpretations, there are so many places around Ohio where you can see a live performance of The Nutcracker this Christmas. Let's look at a few of the most popular in greater detail below.
The Nutcracker at the Ohio Theater
39 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Every year around Christmas, the Ohio Theater hosts the talented artists of Ohio's BalletMet for a series of performances of The Nutcracker. This year, shows will run from December 8 all the way up to Christmas Eve. This production is extremely well-crafted, boasting gorgeous sets and visual effects as well as world-class dancing from the BalletMet's company dancers and students. With more than two weeks' worth of performances in Columbus' premier theater, you're sure to be able to fit one into your busy holiday schedule.
My First Nutcracker at the Ohio Theater
39 East State Street, Columbus, OH 43215
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Yes, you read that right: The Ohio Theater offers an additional performance of The Nutcracker. This time, it's a special performance called My First Nutcracker, taking place on December 22 at 11 a.m. This show is a slightly abridged version of the full BalletMet version designed to make the experience better for families with young children and people with disabilities like autism. The shorter 1-hour performance time, smaller crowds, dimmed house lights, and quieter music all help make this version much easier for kids to sit through. If your kids do get antsy, audience members are invited to get up and move around during the performance or even leave the theatre if they need to.
The Nutty Nutcracker
182 South Main Street, Akron, OH 44308
Looking for a laugh or two this Christmas? On December 2 at 7 p.m., the Akron Civic Theatre will be hosting a performance of The Nutty Nutcracker, a parody version of the classic show. This production is an adults-only campy comedy that still showcases plenty of excellent ballet dancing. It turns the elegant timelessness of the original on its head in a way that veteran Nutcracker fans are sure to appreciate, and if nothing else, it's great for a fun, lighthearted night out during a hectic holiday season.
The Akron Nutcracker
198 Hill Street, Akron, OH 44325
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The University of Akron's Dance Institute is partnering with the Verb Ballet's company dancers for a repeat performance of last year's hit new show, The Akron Nutcracker. This adapted version of the original aims to tell the classic story within a recreation of the Akron of the 1930s, complete with iconic local landmarks like Polsky's Department Store and the Stan Hywet estate. This limited-run Northeast Ohio show is being performed Dec. 22 and 23 at 7:30 p.m. each evening, so it's a great family activity to help you build up to the big day.
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet
500 Lakeside Avenue East, Cleveland, OH 44114
If you want to see a world-class production of The Nutcracker right here in Ohio, check out this year's performance of Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet on Saturday, December 10 at the Cleveland Public Auditorium Music Hall. This year marks the 30th anniversary of this adaptation of the classic ballet, and its goals of spreading world peace and harmony are more important now than ever. Come see the artistry of some of Ukraine's top ballet dancers as they bring this dazzling show to life – it's an experience you'll never forget.
The Nutcracker at Cincinnati Music Hall
1241 Elm Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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A yearly staple at the Cincinnati Music Hall, The Nutcracker is arguably the most popular show performed by the Cincinnati Ballet. It's a great excuse to watch some of Ohio's most talented dancers practice their craft. And because it's so popular, you can expect high production values that will make the experience even more worthwhile. This year's performances run from December 15 all the way up to Christmas Eve, so find a free day on your calendar and book your tickets!
Nutcracker Hot Chocolate
650 Walnut Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telling a familiar story from a new perspective is a great way to make it feel fresh and current again. On December 9 and 10, the Aronoff Center for the Arts will be hosting Nutcracker Hot Chocolate, a modernized version of The Nutcracker that has been adapted to showcase African American performers and culture. Acclaimed dance icon Debbie Allen created the show in 2008 to help inspire young dancers of color to keep pursuing their dreams. It's won a bevy of awards since then and continues to be a favorite of families everywhere.
The Hip Hop Nutcracker
317 East 5th Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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The Nutcracker may be traditionally staged as a ballet, but who says it has to be? The Hip Hop Nutcracker reimagines this classic show as a thrilling hip-hop dance exhibition that is sure to make you think about Tchaikovsky's music in a whole new way. This touring performance will be stopping in Cincinnati for a show at the Taft Theatre on December 1 from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. The tour features rapper Kurtis Blow as the show's MC, as well as a full troupe of talented artists dancing on a set that recreates modern-day New York City with gorgeous graffiti lighting effects.
Dreaming of Christmas
Which of these exciting performances of The Nutcracker will you be seeing this holiday season?
2
8 Family Events to Get in the Holiday Spirit Around Ohio
The holiday season is fast approaching, and now is the perfect time to start planning for some enchanting family fun. With events like the Christmas Connection in Northeast Ohio, A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage in Columbus, A 19th Century Holiday Guided Tour near Cincinnati, and many more, you have tons of great options no matter which corner of Ohio you call home. Here are some events to look forward to as you plan for the holidays in Ohio.
A Motown Christmas
605 N. Market Ave., Canton, OH 44702
Featuring former members of The Temptations, The Miracles, and The Contours, A Motown Christmas puts a soulful spin on your favorite classic holiday tunes. This family-friendly performance will be held on November 17, 2022, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. at the gorgeous Canton Palace Theater, and is sure to have you dancing in the aisles. Bring the whole family for a memorable night of music, choreography, and fun surprises to kick off the holiday season in style.
Cirque Dreams Holidaze
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Settle in for an evening of holiday music, spectacular acrobatics, and unforgettable performances when you attend Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the Edwin J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall on the University of Akron campus. Featuring performers from around the world, a spectacular stage set, and an original score mixed with holiday classics, this show is sure to dazzle audience members of all ages. The show kicks off on December 6, 2022, at 7:30 p.m., with 20 unique acts leading you through an evening of holiday wonder, whimsy, and delight.
Holiday Cookie Camp with the Kids
250 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH 43215
Enjoy sweet, holiday-themed fun for the whole family when you attend Holiday Cookie Camp with the Kids at Mitchell Hall on the Columbus State Community College Campus. Learn how to dazzlingly decorate holiday treats from chocolate-dipped pretzel rods to sweet sugar cookies, then finish off the event by sampling some of your creations paired with a delicious mug of hot chocolate. The fun starts on December 10, 2022, at 11 a.m., with instruction from chef Shawnie Kelley.
Christmas Connection
1 I-X Center Dr., Cleveland, OH 44135
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Get a head start on your holiday shopping while enjoying plenty of attractions and activities for younger family members when you visit the Christmas Connection in Cleveland. The event will take place November 18-20, 2022, at the International Exposition Center, with hundreds of vendors selling gifts for even the hardest to shop for people on your list. The kids will love visiting Santa Land, where they can meet Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves. There's even a Sugar Plum Shoppe featuring thousands of pre-wrapped, affordable items perfect for kids with their own shopping lists.
A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage
34 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
Turn back the clock and enjoy a true holiday classic for all ages with A Charlie Brown Christmas: Live on Stage at the Palace Theater in Columbus. This new touring show brings A Charlie Brown Christmas to the theater stage with all of your favorite characters and songs. The show starts at 6 p.m. on November 27, 2022, the perfect family activity to wrap up Thanksgiving weekend this year.
Easton's Grand Illumination
160 Easton Town Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43219
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Get ready for a night of dazzling lights, shopping, entertainment, and family fun with Easton's Grand Illumination at the Easton Town Center. There will be live music, costumed characters, holiday decorations, and plenty of fun activities for the youngest members of the family. The evening is highlighted by the Grand Illumination at 7 p.m. when more than 2 million lights will be turned on simultaneously to light up Easton Town Center. Easton's Grand Illumination will take place on November 18, 2022, from 6-9 p.m.
The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays
650 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Prepare to be amazed by incredible illusions and marvelous magic for the whole family with The Illusionists – Magic of the Holidays at the Aronoff Center for the Arts in Cincinnati. This fun, fast-paced show has delighted audiences around the globe, featuring some of the world's most talented illusionists and magicians. The show starts at 7:30 PM on November 25, 2022, ideal for an evening of family fun after a day of Black Friday shopping.
A 19th Century Holiday Guided Tour
11500 Lebanon Rd., Sharonville, OH 45241
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The Heritage Village Museum is a living history museum that will transport your family to a different era, and the holiday season is an excellent time to visit. The museum will host A 19th Century Guided Holiday Tour, which will take your family throughout the historical Heritage Village to enjoy the sights and sounds of the season while learning how holiday traditions have evolved over centuries. Tours leave every hour on November 30 – December 3 and December 7-9, 2022, from 10 a.m. through 3 p.m.
Home for the Holidays
Where will you be celebrating the season in Ohio this year?
21
Sign Up for These 8 Fall Races Around Columbus
Are you ready to embrace fitness this fall and have a great time in the process? The fall season is a busy time for 5k races in Columbus and nearby communities, with events suited to every type of racer. Whether you're aiming to bring home awesome prizes while setting a personal best time, or you simply want to enjoy a fun run/walk while supporting charitable causes, there's a local race with your name on it. Start planning for fall fitness fun now with our guide to fall races around Columbus for you to enjoy this year.
Zoo "Run Run" 5K & Kids "Ele-Fun-Run"
4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065
Why not turn your next 5k adventure into a family day at the zoo? The Zoo "Run Run" 5K & Kids "Ele-Fun-Run" will be held at the Columbus Zoo on October 30, 2022. Start your day with a 5k run/walk for adults or the special quarter-mile "Ele-Fun-Run" for the kids. Then spend the rest of your day exploring all that the Columbus Zoo has to offer, with free admission to the zoo and free parking for race participants. All participants will also receive a fun, specially designed t-shirt, a finisher's medal, and refreshments after the race.
Gourdy's Pumpkin Run: Columbus
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The Gourdy's Pumpkin Run 5k series has become a popular fall event in many communities around the country, and the Columbus edition is no exception. Gourdy's Pumpkin Run: Columbus will be held on a street course that winds through downtown Columbus on November 5, 2022, and features plenty of fun perks to get you in the spirit of the fall season. Your registration fee includes a unique lightweight hoodie ideal for fall running, finisher's medal, and commemorative race bib. A free cup of apple cider will also be waiting for you at the finish line, along with a small pumpkin to take home as a souvenir.
Monster Dash 5K
9801 Hyland-Croy Rd., Plain City, OH 43064
Celebrate Halloween in style at the Monster Dash 5k, which supports the United Way of Union County and will take place at the scenic Glacier Ridge Metro Park on October 29, 2022. The entire event is geared toward families, with costumes encouraged and a "Little Gremlins" race for the youngest participants. Get all dressed up in your favorite Halloween costume, then compete to take home a truly unique, monster-themed medal. Every dollar raised through registration fees and donations supports the United Way.
Turkey Trails – Columbus
105 Park Dr., Columbus, OH 43209
The Turkey Trails series features locations around Ohio and beyond, with the Columbus event taking place on November 6, 2022, at Wolfe Park. This is a family-friendly event, with free, fun activities to enjoy before and after the race. During the race, track your progress with chip timing, live results, and awards. After the race, there will be some delicious food to enjoy, along with free photos and Thanksgiving-themed activities. Can't make it to Columbus on the day of the race? There will also be a virtual race that allows you to join the fun from anywhere.
United Way of Fairfield Annual 5k and 2-Mile Fun Walk
157 E. Fair Ave., Lancaster, OH 43130
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Raise money for a great cause and have some fun in the process when you participate in the United Way of Fairfield Annual 5k and 2-Mile Fun Walk at the Fairfield County Fairgrounds on November 12, 2022. This event has been a local favorite since the first race in 1997 and serves as an important annual fundraiser for the United Way of Fairfield. In addition to prizes for top finishers, there's a special trophy that goes to the local business which has the most participants in the race.
The Dash For Camp 5k Run/Walk
3800 Veterans Memorial Dr., Hilliard, OH 43026
Head to Roger A. Reynolds Municipal Park for The Dash For Camp 5k Run/Walk, taking place this year on November 12, 2022. This race serves as a key annual fundraiser for Camp Hamwi, a non-profit organization that provides services for Ohio kids and teens with diabetes. It also raises money for a variety of diabetes education programs around Central Ohio. There will be awards for the top finishers in each category and for the top fundraisers as well. After the race, stick around to enjoy a hot chocolate social with refreshments and family activities for all ages.
Candy Cane Course Columbus
303 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
We all enjoy indulging in some seasonal treats during the holidays, so why not get a head start on holiday season fitness with a fun event like the Candy Cane Course Columbus 5k and 10k races? The event kicks off on December 4, 2022, at Genoa Park in Columbus and features a free Kids Dash so you can involve the youngest members of the family in the fun. There will also be a costume contest, free race photos, outstanding post-race food, and fun, holiday-themed activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Delaware Turkey Trot
1000 Sunbury Rd., Delaware, OH 43015
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What better way to start Thanksgiving day than a healthy, fun 5k run before you settle in for a day of delicious dining with the family? The Delaware Turkey Trot kicks off on Thanksgiving morning, November 24, 2022, on a course that starts just behind the Designer Fashion Warehouse. There are three races to enjoy: a 5k run/walk, 2-mile run/walk, and Little Gobbler Kid's Fun Run. All proceeds from the Delaware Turkey Trot support the Autism Society of Central Ohio, with nearly $175,000 over its first 10 years of races.
Fall Fitness Adventures
Where will you cross your next finish line?
28
8 Places to Improve Your Golf Game Around Columbus
The game of golf has been played worldwide for centuries, if not longer. For some, it's a fun and relaxing way to spend the day. For others, it's a lifelong passion. If golf is something you can't get enough of, you'll be pleased to learn October 4 is National Golf Lovers Day! And what better way to celebrate than by playing a few holes? Fortunately, there are plenty of public courses where you can work on your game. Here are our favorite public golf courses in and around Columbus.
Wilson Road Golf Course
1900 N. Wilson Rd., Columbus, OH 43228
This 9-hole golf course is great for anyone looking for a quicker game. It features six par 3s and three par 4s and is a par-30 course overall. The fairway is lined with beautiful trees and has two small ponds and a creek running through it. They also have a special deal for weddings. If you bring your wedding party of eight or more people on the Saturday nearest your wedding, the bride or groom can play free!
Raymond Memorial Golf Course
3860 Trabue Rd., Columbus, OH 43228
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A Columbus fixture for nearly 70 years, this course features a unique twist: Each par-3 hole has an extra hole running parallel to it, with trees, greens, fairways, etc. These "twin holes" play host to a variety of junior golf programs in the summer months, making this an excellent course for young and beginner golfers to gain some experience. Though with 18 holes and a par 72, more experienced players will love the Raymond Memorial course as well. The large greens are sloped and contoured, with sand bunkers for each hole.
Champions Golf Course
3900 Westerville Rd., Columbus, OH 43224
If you really want to hone your golf skills, this is the course to play. Considered one of the most challenging courses in Central Ohio, its terrain features hills, dense trees, and more. It's not an easy course, but it is fun, with beautiful views. By far the oldest course on this list, Champions was first built in 1922, then redesigned in 1948 by Robert Trent Jones to be a full 18 holes. A classic course, it has stood the test of time and will likely continue to challenge golfers for many years to come.
Mentel Memorial Golf Course
6005 Alkire Rd., Galloway, OH 43119
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They say golf is a mental game, but in this case, it's a Mentel game. Originally opened in 1972 as Bolton Fields, the Mentel Memorial Golf Course in Galloway is a par-72 course that golfers have been coming to for nearly 50 years. It's every bit as comfortable and accommodating as a private club. Their 20,000-square-foot clubhouse features all the amenities, plus a banquet hall perfect for weddings and other events. But what about the game? With four sets of tees, the Mentel Memorial Course has something for everyone, from beginners to professionals. The grounds include three large lakes and 44 bunkers, along with wide fairways lined with trees.
Airport Golf Course
900 N. Hamilton Rd., Columbus, OH 43219
As its name implies, this golf course is next to John Glenn International Airport, allowing players to view the planes as they take off and land. First opened in 1966, the course received a full redesign in 2012, making it the beautiful, modern facility it is today. The Airport Course is gentle enough for beginners but includes a few fun challenges that will keep experts coming back for more. With a par 72, the ratings on this course range from 59.0 to 72.8, ensuring there's something for everyone. If you're looking for a course with a bit of variety to keep things interesting, even with regular visits, this is the course for you.
The Golf Depot
789 Science Blvd., Gahanna, OH 43230
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Located in nearby Gahanna, the Golf Depot is designed to train new golfers and help them hone their skills. In addition to its 18 holes, it has both a driving range and a wedge range for practice. They also have many on-site instructors who can be booked for private lessons. And the Hammond Golf Academy makes its home on the premises as well. The golf school trains kids and adults, amateurs and pros alike, providing them with the tools and skills they need to improve their game.
Turnberry Golf Course
1145 Clubhouse Ln., Pickerington, OH 43147
First built in 1991, this 18-hole course borders Blacklick Creek and features high fescue grass, several lakes, and several bunkers. Perfect for lessons or tournaments, it's a challenging but fun course for novices and experts alike. The tees range from 3,812 to 6,675 yards, and you can play par 72 or 73. There's also a driving range with 70 tee stations.
Westchester Golf Course
6300 Bent Grass Blvd., Canal Winchester, OH 43110
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Golfers have been coming to this course for over 25 years, and most of them rave about it. It features a course rating of 73.6 and a slope rating of 128. Several leagues play at Westchester, including a couples' league, a family league, a two-person team league, and a 9-hole senior league. The facility hosts events throughout the year and can be booked for weddings and other parties. You can also book private lessons at their practice facilities, and annual memberships are also available. And when you're done playing, check out the course's restaurant, Olive Branch Pizzeria!
Par for the Course
Where will you go to take a few strokes off your golf game this fall?
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