Posts with tag 'Family-Friendly Activities'
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Plan a Visit to These 9 County Fairs and Festivals Around Ohio
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.
Medina County Fair
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.
Lorain County Fair
23000 Fairgrounds Rd., Wellington, OH 44090
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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.
Great Geauga County Fair
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.
Hartford Fair
14028 Fairgrounds Rd., Croton, OH 43013
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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.
Delaware County Fair
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.
Hardin County Fair
14134 Letson Ave., Kenton, OH 43326
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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.
Hamilton County Fair
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.
Allen County Fair
2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, OH 45804
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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.
Champaign County Fair
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.
Good Eats
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?
16
Explore Ohio: 9 Small Towns to Visit this Summer
Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cleveland are noted for their vibrant urban settings and fast-paced lifestyles. When you want to slow down and get away from it all for a while, there's a whole new world just a short drive away. Spend a day or a weekend exploring some of these amazing small towns around Ohio.
Avon Lake
Waterfront towns may seem like summer-only destinations, but that's not the case with Avon Lake. The city itself measures only 11 square miles, but 220 acres of that area is covered with parks and other green spaces, making Avon Lake a visual splendor in any season. With its well-maintained boat launch and a fishing pier that's open year-round, Miller Road Park is a popular family-friendly spot for water activities, picnics, and relaxation. Stop in at Klingshern Winery, a local tradition since 1935, for an informal wine-tasting.
Medina
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Founded in 1818, Medina remains a picturesque representation of small-town America. Social, entertainment, and cultural activities still revolve around Main Street, lined with stunning Victorian-style architecture and delightful mom-and-pop stores. You'll find it hard to believe the region suffered not one but two debilitating fires in the 19th century. Learn more about Medina's history at the four museums located downtown. There's even a quaint town square park, highlighted by a gazebo that serves as the centerpiece of community events.
Hinckley Township
Hinckley Township, named for original proprietor Samuel Hinckley, is home to a famed seasonal tradition that rivals Groundhog Day. Every year on March 15, as many as 50,000 people gather to observe Buzzard Day, when the birds return like clockwork. The official event began in 1957, and residents consider Buzzard Day the beginning of spring. Festivities are held at Hinckley Reservation, a worthy attraction in its own right. This southernmost Cleveland Metropark is known for Worden's Ledges, a fascinating series of sandstone ledge carvings depicting elements of local history.
Bexley
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History and architecture are frequently entwined, with the town of Bexley being a prime example. The serene, tree-lined suburb of Columbus draws several visitors to view its impressive large houses and mansions. Jeffrey Park, a 40-acre natural woodland with a number of walking trails, is also the site of majestic Jeffrey Mansion, built in 1905 by a former mayor of Columbus. Northern Bexley is home to the official Governor's Mansion, a one-time private residence donated to the state in 1955. Just west of Bexley sits the Franklin Park Conservatory, a botanical garden featuring more than 400 species of plants along with a permanent collection of stunning glasswork by Dale Chihuly.
Delaware
Perhaps the town's own motto sums it up best: Delaware is "Hometown Living with a Modern Spirit." The parents of Rutherford B. Hayes, 19th president of the United States, were among the city's earliest settlers. In 1912, Delaware came within one vote of becoming the new capital of Ohio. The Historic Northwest District features an eclectic mix of architectural styles, from Federal and Queen Anne to Craftsman and Gothic Revival. More than 500 homes and carriage houses in the neighborhood are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nearby, the thriving downtown area includes the Strand, one of the 10 oldest movie theaters in the country.
Granville
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If Granville reminds you of a charming New England town, you wouldn't be far off. The village was settled by a group from Granville, MA, who named their new home after their original one. But indigenous people inhabited the area more than four hundred years before. One of the notable local landmarks is the Alligator Effigy Mound, used by people of the Fort Ancient culture as a ceremonial site and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Other popular sites include the Bryn Du Mansion, Dawes Arboretum, and Granville Inn. Immerse yourself in local history at the Denison Museum, Granville Historical Society, and Robbins Hunter Museum.
Yellow Springs
People often describe Yellow Springs as having a mellow, 1960s-type vibe. Fittingly, the village was founded in 1825 by a collection of 100 families hoping to create a utopian community. Yellow Springs takes its name from an actual natural spring with a yellowish tint due to high iron content. You can view this landmark at Glen Helen Nature Preserve, which features other stunning scenery such as wildflowers, 400-year-old trees, and limestone cliffs with waterfalls. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Clifton Mill, with its rustic setting that includes a classic red, covered bridge.
Lebanon
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In its earlier days, Lebanon was a designated stagecoach stop for north-bound travelers. With historic buildings that house businesses such as the Black Horse Tavern, it's not hard to visualize those times. Since 1803, the Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel, Ohio's oldest continuously operated business, has hosted notable figures such as Charles Dickens, Barbara Bush, Mark Twain, Charles Laughton, and Kesha. Right across the street sits a library funded by Andrew Carnegie. Lebanon has such an authentic small-town feel that it served as the filming location for Harper Valley PTA.
Rabbit Hash
From the name to the setting, Rabbit Hash is as quirky and lovable as you might expect. Originally known as Carlton, the town took on the name of its signature dish to avoid confusion with nearby Carrolton. A French bulldog named Wilbur currently presides as mayor, continuing a longstanding tradition. As with many small towns, the community center of Rabbit Hash is the legendary General Store. In a concession to the digital age, the store does maintain an online shop, but the actual shelves are full of antiques, hand-woven towels, collectibles, and other fascinating items. Both the General Store and the Rabbit Hash Historic District can be found on the National Register of Historic Places.
Small Town USA
Small towns have been a rich source of material for pop culture, from movies and books to country songs. What's your favorite story about a small town?
9
Train for These 9 Upcoming Ohio Road Races
Road races aren't just for serious, lifelong athletes. Most are welcoming to people at all levels of fitness. Training for a road race is a great way to improve your stamina and maybe even lose a few pounds this summer! Luckily, there are plenty of great road races coming up in Northeast Ohio. Here are a few to consider signing up for.
Hofbrauhaus Cleveland Half Marathon, 5K, and 10K
1550 Chester Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115
Scheduled for Sunday, August 8th, this race begins at Hofbrauhaus Cleveland. The half marathon begins at 7 am, and the 5K and 10K races begin at 8 am. You can pre-register online, and packet pickup takes place beginning at 6 am on race day.
The Hofbrauhaus half marathon course winds through the city of Cleveland, even passing through Rockefeller Park. The 5K and 10K racecourses take runners through the downtown area near Cleveland State University. All runners over the age of 21 get a free beer with registration, and runners of all ages get a free bratwurst and technical t-shirt.
Run for Recovery
3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109
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On August 14th, the Run for Recovery begins at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. There's also a One Mile Wellness Walk and a shorter kids' fun run. Proceeds from the race go to support charities that help those struggling with alcoholism, drug abuse, and other addictions.
This year, the organizers' goal is to raise $65,000 for charity. To help them reach this goal, you can register online for the race of your choice. Register for the 5K, and you'll also get a free pass to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Registrants for all races get a free t-shirt. You can raise even more money for the cause by fundraising with a team, which you can learn more about on the race website.
Love a Nurse RuN
6500 Cleveland Memorial Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44102
Nurses put so much love and care into their profession, especially over this past year. Scheduled for September 26th in Edgewater Park, this race is a good opportunity to show nurses how much you appreciate them. There's a 5K race and a 1-mile run/walk. You can pre-register online or register on race day for an extra $5.
After the race, there will be a ceremony to recognize all nurses who are present. Post-race refreshments will also be provided.
Oktoberfest Meiler Vier 4-Mile Run
717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211
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Scheduled for September 10th, this race begins at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus. It's a local tradition to honor Oktoberfest, and all participants get free sausage and beer. You can pre-register for the race online and pick your packet up at the local Fleet Feet the Wednesday or Thursday prior to the race.
All participants get a free t-shirt, and finishers get a medal. The race doesn't start until 6:15 pm, which is good news if you're not a morning person.
Big Bad Wolfe Run
105 Park Dr., Columbus, OH 43209
If you're looking for a unique race in Columbus, then the Big Bad Wolfe Run is a great choice. There's a fun backstory associated with the race name, which you can read on the signup page. You'll feel like Little Red Riding Hood as you run down the trail.
This race is scheduled for September 26th. There are 5K, 10-mile, and 20-mile options, and all courses begin in Wolfe Park and follow the Alum Creek Trail, which is asphalt paved. Every finisher gets a medal and a swag bag.
Dog Jog
303 W. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215
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Scheduled for October 3rd, the 31st annual Dog Jog is a fundraiser for the CHA Animal Shelter. All proceeds go toward caring for and finding homes for animals at the shelter.
The 5K race and 1-mile fun run begin in Genoa Park at 9 am. After the race, multiple vendor booths, games, and activities for participants and fans are available. There's also a virtual race option for anyone who doesn't feel comfortable participating in person.
Egghead 5K
7669 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227
If you'll be in Cincinnati in August and want to run a race while you're there, the Egghead 5K is definitely a top choice. It's scheduled for August 14th, 2021. At 4 pm, willing participants will shave their heads to show support for cancer patients and raise money for the Eggstrong Foundation. Then, at 5 pm, these eggheads will run the 5K race.
50 West Cycling Company is hosting this event. The course is an out and back route on the Little Miami Bike Trail. You can pre-register online, and race day registration is also available for an added fee. If you refer three friends to register, you can save $15 on your own registration. You do not have to shave your head to run the race!
Sophie's Angel Run
5924 Bridgetown Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248
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The 15th Annual Sophie's Angel Run is scheduled for September 26, 2021. This race starts at St. Jude Parish in Bridgetown, and the 5K course weaves through the local neighborhood. The 1 pm start time is great for late risers.
Sophie's Angel Run is a charity event to raise funds to support research into pediatric brain tumor diagnosis and treatment. If you pre-register online, you'll receive a free t-shirt. There's also a family plan registration option, which includes two adults and their children, plus shirts and goodie bags for all for $65.
Ice Cream 5K, 10K
705 E. Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Why not balance out your love for ice cream with some running? The Ice Cream 5K and 10K is scheduled for October 16th, 2021. This race begins at Sawyer Point Park. The 5K and 10K races begin at 8:45 am, and the kids' 1-mile fun run begins at 8 am. There's also a baby/toddler crawl at 10 am or whenever the 10K wraps up.
After the race, there will be a family-friendly party with face painting, dancing, and games. Of course, all participants get a free ice cream cone and t-shirt. Proceeds from the race and associated party go to benefit Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. You can register online. Details for packet pickup will be posted closer to race day.
These Shoes Were Made for Running
Which one of these Northeast Ohio road races do you plan on training for in 2021?
7
Catch a Sunset at These 9 Stunning Ohio Destinations
Musician Carlos Santana once said no sunsets are ever the same. Thanks to nature's infinite variety, sunset-watching is an endlessly fascinating activity that never grows old. The varied landscapes around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati provide these wonderful spots to see the sun go down.
Lorain Lighthouse
1 W. Breakwater, Lorain, OH 44052
Once you see Lorain Lighthouse at sunset, with a backdrop of cotton candy clouds, you'll understand why it's known as the "Jewel of the Port." Its iconic outline has come to symbolize the city, and reproductions have been featured on everything from paintings and postcards to sweatshirts and needlework projects. Celebrate a special occasion with a romantic sunset wine dinner, held each Tuesday from June 15 through September 14. Tours are available for $20 per person, including the boat ride to and from the lighthouse.
Edgewater Park
4101 Fulton Pkwy., Cleveland, OH 44144
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With 147 acres of land, including 9,000 feet of shoreline, you'll have little trouble finding your own sunset-viewing spot at Edgewater Park. As the westernmost location of the properties that make up the Lakefront Reservation, Edgewater Park affords majestic sightlines of the sunset as well as stunning views of Cleveland. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it by hiking or biking the all-purpose trails or taking Fido for a splash in the dog-friendly beach. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.
Ledges Overlook
405 Truxell Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264
Lake Erie may be Mother Nature's main event in Northeast Ohio, but she left a spectacular mark in several inland spots as well. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a popular destination because of features such as Ledges Overlook, a rock outcropping with unimpaired views of the western vista. Plan some extra time to hike the 2.2-mile loop trail to see the unusual rock formations. Many people love to visit Ledges Overlook during fall when the changing colors of the leaves and the pastel colors of the sunset make you feel as though you're in a painting. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open 24 hours, but Ledges Overlook closes from dusk until dawn. Admission is free.
Smale Riverfront Park
166 W. Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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A spot that was once nothing but parking lots between the two stadiums is now one of the most beloved locations in Cincinnati. Even though Smale Riverfront Park has been open only since 2012, many residents can't remember what Cincinnati was like without it. Sunset is considered the best time to visit the park when the fading rays cast a glow across the already impressive Roebling Suspension Bridge. Filled with walking and biking paths, a splash pad and playground, fountains, gardens, pergolas, and a carousel, Smale Riverfront Park has plenty of family-friendly attractions to keep you entertained as you wait for the sun to go down.
Primavista
810 Matson Place, Cincinnati, OH 45204
How many restaurants have a section on their website dedicated to their view? Even the name, Primavista, translates to, "first sight." Readers of Cincinnati Magazine voted Primavista as the city's best Italian restaurant, and the views are cited as frequently as the food. Dine on traditional Italian favorites such as veal Marsala and spaghetti and meatballs as you take in breathtaking views of the city, enhanced by the day's last rays of sunlight. Planning a romantic sunset dinner at a local park? Everything on the menu is available for carryout. Hours are 5 - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 5 - 10 p.m. Friday, 4:30 - 10 p.m. Saturday, and 4:30 - 8 p.m. Sunday. Reservations are recommended.
Ault Park
5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208
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A bronze plaque on the terrace of Ault Park pays tribute to the legacy of former park commissioner Levi Addison Ault, who donated the property in 1911. Adopt-A-Plot Garden, with 39 sections developed and tended by volunteers, has earned national awards and acclaim for its innovative concept. One of the more popular spots in the dog-friendly park is Heekin Overlook, where sweeping views of the Little Miami River make it a prime spot for sunset-watching. Ault Park is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.
Park of Roses
3923 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214
Park of Roses is like a scene out of a dream any time of day, but it reaches a greater level of grandeur at sunset. Founded in 1953, this 13-acre space within Whetstone Park is covered with 11,000 roses of more than 350 different types. The park features several individual gardens, including the Heritage Garden and the Herb Garden, that showcase specific variations. Visit the park in summertime to see the flowers in full bloom. Hours are dawn to dusk daily, and there is no charge to enter the park.
Scioto Mile
233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215
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Enjoy an urban sunset in the heart of the city at Scioto Mile. More than 175 acres of scenery are surrounded by the downtown skyline, resulting in a beautiful juxtaposition as the sun goes down. Scioto Mile is comprised of nine individual parks, each with its own attractions, so every visit is different. Admire the public artworks, do some bird watching, tackle a climbing wall, or just relax on one of the swinging benches. All parks along the Scioto Mile are open 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily and there is no admission fee.
Antrim Park
5800 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, OH 43085
A scenic quarried lake is the centerpiece of Antrim Park, named for the owner of the company that once quarried the 120 acres of property. Once a year, the waters are stocked with rainbow trout for fishing along the banks or off the dock. Bring your dog along for a brisk walk or run along the beautiful trails. Afterward, let your pet cool off with a swim in the lake. Antrim Park is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me
Experts say sunsets have a positive effect on mental and emotional well-being. What's your favorite reason to watch the sun go down?
5
9 Ohio Trails to See Wildflowers in Bloom
Spring is in the air, which means Ohio's wildflower season has just begun. In parks and preserves all over the Buckeye State, the first flowers of the year have already started to bloom.
But the great thing about wildflowers in Ohio is that they don't all appear at once. We get to experience a rainbow of color that changes with the seasons. These wildflower hikes offer opportunities to see a dazzling array of native wildflowers throughout the spring and well into summer.
California Woods Nature Preserve
5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230
Southern Ohio parks tend to see the state's earliest spring wildflower blooms, and California Woods Nature Preserve is a prime spot to see early spring flowers in Cincinnati. This Hamilton County preserve encompasses 113 acres of forests, with steep ravines and shady woods that harbor diverse spring bloomers. Visit in May to see Virginia spiderwort and fire-pink in bloom, along with the yellow blossoms of cinquefoil and trout lilies. California Woods is home to an extensive trail system, and the 1-mile Junction Loop is a great place to start. Stop back in summer to explore the preserve's butterfly and hummingbird garden!
Three Creeks Metropark
3860 Bixby Rd., Groveport, OH 43125
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One of the several picturesque Metroparks in the Columbus area, Three Creeks Metropark has a reputation as one of the most beautiful destinations for wildflower hikes in Central Ohio. This 1,053-acre park takes its name from the spot where Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks meet, and the area around the confluence of these three streams offers a diverse bounty of spring blooms. The 1-mile Confluence Trail meanders along the creek banks, and you may spy flowers including yellow and white trout lily, Dutchman's breeches and spring beauty, among others. The nearby Bluebell Trail abounds in its namesake flowers, and the small maroon blossoms of sessile trillium are also a common sight.
Wilson Nature Preserve
4082 OH-132, Batavia, OH 45103
Less than 30 minutes from Cincinnati in the small town of Batavia, OH, the James L. and Frances Wilson Nature Preserve spans 145 beautiful acres along the banks of the Little Miami River, including a 25-acre river island. Three miles of trails traverse this picturesque woodland, the ground often carpeted in spring wildflowers. Eagle-eyed hikers can spot several different species of trilliums here. Picnic areas and additional trails, including the aptly named half-mile Wildflower Trail, are available in the neighboring Sycamore Park.
Wildcat Hollow Trail (Wayne National Forest)
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Few places in Ohio offer a more immersive nature experience than Wayne National Forest, which spans a quarter of a million acres among the Appalachian foothills in the southeastern part of the state. There are endless wild experiences to be had here, but if spying spring and summer wildflowers is your goal, head to the Wildcat Hollow Trail. This 17.5-mile loop meanders through diverse woodland and meadow habitats, including carpets of the endangered running buffalo clover, and dense thickets of native rhododendrons in full bloom. The trail is about a 90-minute drive from Columbus, and worth every second of the journey.
North Kingsville Sand Barrens
A stone's throw from the shores of Lake Erie, the North Kingsville Sand Barrens represents a unique landscape of fossilized dunes that supports many plants and animals seen almost nowhere else in Ohio, including the endangered blue bead lily. The spectacular blooms of native blue lupine, which appear in late May and early June, are especially enchanting. This 174-acre property is managed by the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and offers some of the most spectacular wildflower blooms in Northeast Ohio.
Holden Arboretum
9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
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The Holden Arboretum is a 3,600-acre wonderland for anyone interested in unique plants and flowers. Home to diverse gardens, collections, and ecologically sensitive habitats, it's one of the largest arboreta in the state and home to a vast network of walking paths. Keep an eye out for native beauties like marsh marigolds, trilliums, and Virginia bluebells. Just 30 minutes from Cleveland, the arboretum is one of the best places to see native wildflowers in Northeast Ohio. They even have an annual plant sale in early May, where you can purchase native wildflowers reared at the arboretum to transplant into your own garden.
Edge of Appalachia Preserve
4274 Waggoner Riffle Rd., West Union, OH 45693
A 16,000-acre preserve dedicated to restoring Southern Ohio's Appalachian landscape, the Edge of Appalachia Preserve's dense forests and vibrant meadows are home to many plant species that are found almost nowhere else in the state. It's a truly unique and beautiful place to go looking for native wildflowers. Be sure to explore the Lynx Prairie Trail, which offers a glimpse at rare species like Indian paintbrush, western sunflower, and the endangered scaly blazing star.
Bigelow Cemetery State Nature Preserve
600 Rosedale Rd, Irwin, OH 43029
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Although it spans just half an acre, Bigelow Cemetery Nature Preserve is a unique and special place. This small park 30 minutes outside Columbus has never been grazed or plowed, a fact that becomes all the more striking when one looks out at the cultivated farmlands that surround it. This small plot of land was first used as a cemetery in pioneer times, and the grave markers dating back to the 1800s still stand among the tall prairie grasses and blooming wildflowers, giving it an almost dreamlike appearance. The blossoms are frequented by hummingbirds and butterflies and reach their peak in July and August.
Brecksville Reservation
9000 Chippewa Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141
The largest of Cleveland's 18 Metroparks, the Brecksville Reservation is home to the striking Chippewa Creek Gorge, as well as a section of the 1,400-mile Buckeye Trail, which forms a circular loop through the entire state of Ohio. The Brecksville Reservation is a great place for a spring wildflower hike, with prolific blooms of trout lily, great white trillium, marsh marigold, spring beauty, Jack-in-the-pulpit, and many other species. The 0.75-mile Wildflower Loop Trail packs a lot of great flora into a short, sweet hike.
Walk on the Wild Side
Ohio has hundreds of amazing parks and trails where you can see blooming wildflowers throughout the spring and summer months. If we forgot to mention your favorite place, be sure to let us know in the comments below!
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