Steve Burgess
Posts from April 20th, 2017
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April
20
20
11 Columbus Date Night Ideas that Don't Involve Going to a Restaurant
The weekend has finally arrived, so it's time to plan date night! While there is no shortage of fantastic restaurants in the Columbus area, maybe the time has come to shake up your traditional dinner and a movie routine. Whether you're on a first date or going out on the town with your sweetheart of 20 years, there are plenty of fun activities in our beloved town that are sure to provide a good time and even better memories.
We've rounded up some of our best date night ideas, from letting your inner child soar at a bounce park, to romantic sunset picnics. All you have to do is choose what to try first!
Pack your picnic basket with the essentials (wine and cheese, of course), and head out to Schiller Park to catch sunset. There's nothing quite as romantic as sharing a picnic on a blanket in a beautiful park. Schiller, nestled in the famed German Village, is certainly one of the prettiest around, but also has an interesting history. The 23.5-acre park was established in 1857, originally dubbed Stewart's Grove. In 1891 however, the park was renamed for the famous German poet, Friedrich Von Schiller, who is forever commemorated by his statue in the center of the park. In World War I, when American sentiment was anti-German, the park was named after Washington (along with several nearby streets), but luckily the change didn't last long. Due to the poetic nature of this Columbus gem, it is only fitting it is named after an artist! Enjoy your packed meal here among the trees and beautiful scenery, and hit a nearby pub for cocktails in the German Village afterward.
Fly High at Sky Zone
Love is in the air (literally) at Sky Zone. While trampoline parks are now common, Sky Zone in Columbus was the first indoor bounce park in the nation, and is filled from wall-to-wall with massive floor trampolines. Flit and fly across the floor, and then flip into a foam pit filled with 10,000 cubes. If you're feeling competitive, position yourself across from your date on the trampoline dodgeball court. It's a workout like you've never experienced, and your inner child will be grateful for the gigglin' good time.Catch a Concert at EXPRESS LIVE!
Located in the Arena District, EXPRESS LIVE! is Columbus's most desirable venue for nationally renowned acts, offering both indoor and outdoor accommodations as well as state-of-the-art acoustics. There are more than 100 events to choose from every year, so check out the schedule and pick a night to experience the sound with your beloved! There's sure to be an artist you both love on the agenda.Picnic in Schiller Park
Pack your picnic basket with the essentials (wine and cheese, of course), and head out to Schiller Park to catch sunset. There's nothing quite as romantic as sharing a picnic on a blanket in a beautiful park. Schiller, nestled in the famed German Village, is certainly one of the prettiest around, but also has an interesting history. The 23.5-acre park was established in 1857, originally dubbed Stewart's Grove. In 1891 however, the park was renamed for the famous German poet, Friedrich Von Schiller, who is forever commemorated by his statue in the center of the park. In World War I, when American sentiment was anti-German, the park was named after Washington (along with several nearby streets), but luckily the change didn't last long. Due to the poetic nature of this Columbus gem, it is only fitting it is named after an artist! Enjoy your packed meal here among the trees and beautiful scenery, and hit a nearby pub for cocktails in the German Village afterward.
Cheer on The Columbus Clippers
Photo courtesy of Joe Santry via the Columbus Clippers
When the weather gets warmer, buy yourself some peanuts and cracker jacks and take yourself out to the ballgame! The Columbus Clippers play on summer evenings at Huntington Park, which has been named the best ballpark in the nation. Root, root, root for the home team alongside your sweetheart. This is a great opportunity to see where his or her loyalties truly lie. Go Clippers!Go Rock Climbing at Vertical Adventures
Photo courtesy of Cooper Fenske Photography via Vertical Adventures
Rock climbing is a fun and challenging way to work your mind and your body at the same time, and it's even more fun when you take your honey along with you! Whether you're belaying or bouldering (no ropes), you will work together to help each other complete problems and reach the top. And bringing a plus one means you'll always have a partner to hold the ropes. Just don't tick them off while you're on the wall — your life is in their hands. On your first visit to Vertical Adventures, you have the option to start bouldering right away, or take Rope 101: Intro to Climbing. This class is $39 a person, but includes your lesson, equipment, and a two week trial at the gym.Watch a Blue Jackets Game at Arena District
No list would be complete without Columbus's beloved Blue Jackets, which play during the winter months in the Arena District. Don your red, white and blue apparel, and get ready to hoot and holler along to what is bound to be a thrilling game — the Blue Jackets always put on a show for their fans.Bowl in Style at Star Lanes Polaris
Photo courtesy of Star Lanes Polaris
We see you rolling your eyes — bowling is nothing new. But when you reserve a lane at Star Lanes Polaris, you can count on a party. It's bowling like you've never seen it before. Grab a bite and cocktails at the Point Bar & Grill before hitting the pins. Far from typical bowling food, the cuisine here is contemporary, made fresh to order, and delicious as heck. Then grab your shoes, pick out a ball, and aim for the pins in a black-lit setting with private suites and quirky decor.See a Drive-in Movie
Make movie night a bit more interesting by hitting the drive-in theatre. You'll be able to catch the latest hits from the comfort of your own car, enjoying a picnic dinner and your choice of bevvie in the front seats or from a blanket. If you have the time, you can stay and enjoy two movies for just over $9 a person — well worth it for a fun and cozy night out with your plus one.Go Wine Tasting at Wine on High
Photo courtesy of Wine on High
Ready to wind down with a glass or two of your favorite label? Or looking to try something new? This locally-owned shop is home to more than 300 varieties of wine, all of which are available to enjoy by the glass, in a tasting, or in a bottle that you can take home with you. Kick back with your sweetheart and take in the upscale atmosphere while you sip and savor to your heart's content. We recommend pairing your choice with a charcuterie board, filled with artisan cheeses and meats.Create a Work of Art at Wine & Canvas
What's better than drinking a glass of wine with your sweetheart? Sipping that wine while creating an awesome work of art to hang in your lovely home! At Wine & Canvas, you'll find all of your supplies waiting for you before you sit down, and learn to paint the featured piece while an instructor patiently guides your strokes. You'll have some liquid courage from the wine, so go ahead — paint the town red!Catch a Performance at Shadowbox Live
Photo courtesy of Tommy Fiesel Shadowbox Live
The Shadowbox Live troupe produces a wide variety of theatrical shows each year, ranging from rock operas and traditional musicals to contemporary dances and comedy shows. Currently Columbus residents can catch the popular sketch comedy, the Lunchbox on select Fridays, Evolutionaries (the stories of Prince and Bowie) through June 22, and so much more.Have a Great Date!
April
20
20
The 15 Best Places to Go Camping in Ohio
The summer months are finally upon us, bringing with them a break from school and the opportunity to bring the family together for a weekend under the stars — that's right, it's camping time. May through September are the best months for pitching a tent and enjoying the beautiful sunshine in Ohio, and with so little time and so many stunning places across the state, it can be tough to land on a location.
Whether you're into a luxe cabin retreat, a simple tent excursion, a dog-friendly spot or an RV trip, we've compiled a list of our favorite camping spots in Ohio to get you started. Break out the marshmallows and the graham crackers, because these gorgeous campgrounds will leave you wanting s'more time off from work.
Hocking Hills
Photo courtesy of Hocking Hills
The Hocking Hills region, with its beautiful scenery and entertaining attractions, is a popular spot to visit year-round. But in the warmer months, the campgrounds are bustling with Ohio locals and travelers alike, anxious to soak in all that the area has to offer. Choose to stay in a traditional Sioux-style tipi (perfect for a romantic weekend) or settle down at a spot near the famed Old Man's Cave and hike around the stunning waterfalls and sandstone formations by day.Alum Creek State Park
Located just minutes from Ohio's capital city, Alum Creek State Park offers endless opportunities for fun under the sun — be it horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, fishing, boating or water skiing. The recreational area spans more than 4,630 acres in addition to the large lake, and there are 286 campsites at the main campground, each with electricity, water, and even WiFi (but we doubt you'll need that when you're surrounded by such beautiful scenery). There are also eight cabins to rent within the park, and a number of primitive campgrounds for those who like to rough it.Lake Loramie State Park
This 407-acre state park north of Dayton offers a quiet retreat in rural Ohio. Stay the night in a shady campsite by the lake, and enjoy swimming or boating in the lazy waters of Loramie Lake all weekend long. The park is dog-friendly, so bring man's best friend along for the ride.Wolf Creek Park
Photo courtesy of Sandusky Park District County
Wolf Creek Park is nestled along the scenic Sandusky River just south of Fremont, and provides a natural oasis for locals looking for a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of it all. The Buckeye Trail (a renowned statewide trail) runs straight through the park, but campers can also enjoy canoeing or fishing on the river, and cooking dinner on the community grills.Tappan Lake Park
With beautiful scenery, live music on the weekends, basketball and volleyball courts, and endless activities on and off the water, it's not tough to see why this park is so popular. The 200 camping sites go quickly during the summer, so make sure to reserve your spot in advance.Kelleys Island State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
Kelleys Island is the most popular camping destination of the Erie Islands, known as the "Emerald Isle." It's a great retreat for nature enthusiasts, offering access to unique geological, ecological and archaeological features. Enjoy the stunning scenery and views of the great lake while engaging in activities such as swimming, hiking, boating and fishing. Plus, the ferry ride from Marblehead to get there is an adventure in itself!Leith Run Campground, Wayne National Forest
Photo courtesy of Recreation.gov
Grassy, shaded campsites and picnic areas are the name of the game at this quiet, picturesque retreat on the Ohio River. Hike a short distance from the site on the Camping Bridge Scenic Byway, which will take you over four historic covered bridges and offer romantic views of the surrounding countryside. Don't forget to make a wish as you cross each bridge — it's tradition.Hueston Woods State Park
This gigantic state park spans nearly 3,000 acres of land, and surrounds the picturesque Acton Lake. With campsites, cabins for rent, and even a luxurious resort lodge, the opportunities for enjoying this little slice of heaven are endless. Activities include horseback riding, swimming, picnicking in the shade, hiking, miniature golf and so much more.John Bryan State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
Arguably the prettiest park in western Ohio, this 752-acre park attracts visitors from all across the state. Its claim to fame is the stunning limestone gorge cut by the Little Miami River, part of which is designated as a national landmark. Bring the whole family (even the dog) to take in the beauty and enjoy the countless activities the park has to offer.Shawnee State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
Nestled in Shawnee State Forest and along the banks of the Ohio River is the picturesque Shawnee State Park Campground. This area was once the hunting grounds of the Shawnee Indians, but now offers a secluded retreat for campers. Enjoy boating, hiking, fishing (the works), or just sit back and admire the beautiful carved valleys and wooded hills that are famously known as "The Little Smokies."Mohican State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
25 cabins and 118 campsites dot the rugged but beautiful landscape of Mohican State Park. Take your pick of lodging options (make sure to make a reservation) and get ready for a weekend of fun on the Mohican River, which is known as one of the finest kayaking locations in Ohio. If biking is more your thing, the Mohican mountain biking trail traverses 24.5 miles and has been named the #1 mountain bike trail in Ohio according to Mountain Bike Action Magazine.Indian Lake State Park
Photo courtesy of the Ohio Division of State Parks and Watercraft
This gem in southwestern Ohio offers a beachside camping experience. Enjoy eating s'mores with the family under the shade of the large trees, letting the kids play at one of the playgrounds, and renting paddle boats.Five Rivers MetroParks
Photo courtesy of Five Rivers MetroParks
What better spot to enjoy nature than at your local MetroPark? These places feel like a different world, but are conveniently located just minutes from your door. There are four metroparks that welcome camping and are popular across the state, including Possum Creek, Twin Creek, Englewood and Germantown. Take your pick and pitch your tent for a weekend under the stars!William H. Harsha Lake
Located on the East Fork of the Little Miami River and 22 miles from Cincinnati, William H. Harsha Lake is a fantastic location for all outdoor recreation activities. The park is protected by the Army Corps of Engineers, and is the site of two abandoned gold mines (although we don't think you'll find much of the rare metal lying around). Enjoy the 40 miles of shoreline, and settle down at one of the many surrounding campsites.Mosquito Lake State Park
Photo courtesy of Reserve America
Don't let the name scare you away — there are no more mosquitos at this lake than at any other campground in Ohio. Instead, you'll find families, couples and solo adventurers alike enjoying the summertime activities lakeside. It's not the best spot for swimming, but fishing and boating is rumored to be spectacular. Plus, your furry friend is invited to join in the festivities!Regardless of where you choose to pitch your tent, make sure to be a happy camper!
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