Steve Burgess
Posts with tag 'Columbus OH'
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April
13
13
The 12 Best Summer Getaways in Ohio
When summer rolls around, travel becomes a much higher priority for many Ohioans. The long days and warm sunshine tempt us all to escape somewhere to soak it all in — but believe it or not, you don't have to book a flight to enjoy a fun-filled summer vacation. There are plenty of getaway destinations right here in Ohio that are worthy of a romantic excursion with your sweetheart or a family adventure.
Pack those bags and put in your time-off notice, because we rounded up some of the most summer-worthy escapes in the state, ranging from sunny beachside lodges to bustling city getaways. Have fun!
Hocking Hills State Park
Photo courtesy of the Hocking Hills Tourism Association
What to Do: Spanning 2,356 acres, Hocking Hills State Park is a premier destination for outdoor adventurers. Here, you'll find an abundance of hiking and biking trails, a large lake for water sports, breathtaking cliffs and waterfalls, and forestland as far as the eye can see. The natural beauty of the park is accented by the unique wildlife and historical remnants of Ohio's ice age, and visitors from all over Ohio come to experience it all. Admission to the park is free, but we highly recommend extending your stay! There is far too much to see in just one day. Where to Stay: The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls allows its guests to fully immerse themselves in their natural surroundings, providing yurts, cabins, and cottages for rent — all with stunning views. After a long day of hiking, retreat to the full-service spa, or cozy up next to the fire with your sweetheart. This spot landed on our list of the best romantic winter getaways in Ohio — but it's perfect for summer, too!Lakeside Chautauqua
Photo courtesy of Lakeside Chautauqua
What to Do: Lakeside Chautauqua welcomes visitors from all over the region to take part in the summertime, waterside experience. During the summer, the town hosts a 10-week programming session complete with concerts, art displays, recreational activities and more — which makes it a popular time frame for tourists. The gorgeous 19th-century summer cottages, colorful gardens and friendly atmosphere of the town landed it on Coastal Living's list of the 10 best beach towns on the Great Lakes. Where to Stay: Built in 1875, the Historic Hotel Lakeside is not just a lovely place to rest your head at night — it's also a notable National Historic Landmark. The hotel is filled with gorgeous Victorian-era decor and includes 79 unique rooms. The hotel is open seasonally from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, so summer is the perfect time to visit! Make a reservation here.Marietta
What to Do: The town of Marietta is built around Ohio's riverboat heritage, so it's a dream getaway for history buffs. The best time to visit is during the Ohio River Sternwheel Festival, an annual event held the weekend after Labor Day, that features plenty of riverboats and fun, family-friendly activities. But regardless of when you visit, you can always take a sightseeing cruise on board the Valley Gem Sternwheeler, peruse the Ohio River Museum, explore the local shops and restaurants, or walk the trail on the riverfront. Where to Stay: The Lafayette Hotel sits in the heart of Marietta and definitely captures the soul of the town. Each room is decorated in a charming, antique fashion (complete with artifacts and historic photos), and guests will enjoy exquisite food and service.Mohican
Photo courtesy of the Mohicans
What to Do: This area is known as the Camp and Canoe Capital of Ohio, and definitely lives up to its name. We listed it as one of the best places to go camping in the state, but there are plenty of other reasons to visit — including two state parks, scenic lakes, historic landmarks and the charming shops in downtown Loudonville. You can experience the area through one of the summer festivals or concerts, or a fun-filled vacation with the whole family. While you're here, don't miss a three-hour zip line adventure with Tree Frog Canopy Tours. Where to Stay: If you're lucky enough to snag a reservation at the the Treehouses at the Mohicans, you will remember the experience for the rest of your life. The property houses six incredible, custom-built accommodations that will put the treehouses of your childhood to shame. Take the Little Red Treehouse for instance — which features stained glass windows and a rustic chic vibe. Or maybe consider the luxurious Nest Treehouse, which is straight out of a fairytale.The venue is typically booked for weddings on most weekends throughout the summer, but it does open the schedule for visitors on select dates! Call for availability.Gervasi Vineyard
What to Do: Gervasi Vineyard is (first and foremost) a highly acclaimed winery near Akron, so you can count on wine tasting to be a main item on the itinerary. In fact, we named it as one of the absolute best wineries in the region! When you're not sipping vino or touring the vineyard, Gervasi Vineyard offers a bounty of other activities to fill the weekend. Enjoy romantic horse-drawn carriage rides, cooking classes, in-room yoga, golf and so much more! Where to Stay: While Gervasi Vineyard is an excellent spot for a drop-in or a romantic dinner, we would also recommend staying onsite at the vineyard. The owners have designed it to be a full weekend getaway experience, and that includes its luxury accommodations!Amish Country
Photo courtesy of Amish Country, Ohio
What to Do: There's a little slice of heaven in the heart of Ohio called Amish Country. Tucked between Cleveland and Columbus, this region boasts gently rolling hills, colorful sunsets, charming farms, friendly people, farm-to-table restaurants and so much more. With so much to do, see and eat, it's the perfect place for a weekend getaway. Where to Stay: The Inn at Honey Run offers a romantic escape in the heart of Amish Country complete with fireplaces, jacuzzis, and spectacular views of the lush scenery. If you choose one of the two private cottages onsite (which we highly recommend), you can snuggle up next to your sweetheart by your in-room fireplace, or look up at the stars in the private outdoor hot tub.Columbus
Photo courtesy of Zoey Duan via the Short North Alliance
What to Do: Columbus is Ohio's largest city, and the perfect summer getaway for those who prefer a quicker pace and a high level of excitement. Spend your days watching sporting events in the arena district, indulging in an Instagram-worthy meal, escaping to German Village, shopping at the best boutiques, meandering down the Scioto Mile, or exploring the immensely popular Short North Arts District. Here are the six best neighborhoods to explore while you're there. Where to Stay: Hotel LeVeque is an iconic piece of the Columbus skyline, but also one of the best places to stay in the city. Feel like you're gazing up at the stars from the comfort of your own room, which features light projections and art deco-styled furnishings.Kelleys Island
What to Do: This relaxing oasis offers a little something for everyone — beautiful, crystal-clear waters, excellent restaurants, and opportunities for endless outdoor adventuring. No wonder it's at the top of our list for summer getaways! To get there, you'll have to take the Kelleys Island ferry from Marblehead (which departs every hour) or the Jet Express from Sandusky. Once you arrive, popular activities include boating and water sports, fishing, hiking, biking and kayaking, and there are 127 gorgeous camping sites available on the island for those who enjoy sleeping under the stars. In fact, it's one of 15 best camping destinations in Ohio! Where to Stay: A Water's Edge Retreat boasts stunning views of Lake Erie and a private beach, and has been featured on NBC TODAY for its charming ambience and luxury accommodations. Lounge lazily on the veranda, walk on the beach, enjoy breakfast in the parlor, or borrow a bike to explore the island.The Wilds
Photo courtesy of Grahm S. Jones via the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
What to Do: The Wilds, owned and operated by the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, is a fantastic safari-like getaway that allows you to see animals in a much more natural environment. Embark on a specialty tour, which could include wine and rhinos, a comprehensive fishing experience, or a horseback sunset safari. And don't miss out on the zipline tour, which allows you to see it all from the canopy! Where to Stay: Book one of the private Yurts at Nomad Ridge in order to get the full Wilds experience. This is one of the most unique and luxe getaways an adventurous couple could ask for, located directly on the grounds of the safari park. And though it feels like you've escaped to the middle of nowhere, the yurts are actually quite lavish, complete with bamboo floors and a spa-like bathroom. After exploring the park, retreat to your yurt and relax on the private porch, catching views of the wildlife off in the distance.Put-in-Bay
What to Do: Located on South Bass Island just off the coast of northern Ohio, Put-in-Bay is a beloved summer getaway for people from all over the state! The town draws nearly two million visitors every year, all of whom enjoy shopping in the charming stores, fishing for perch and walleye, dining at the excellent restaurants, and dancing the night away in local dive bars. To get there, grab the Jet Express from Sandusky or Port Clinton. Bonus: Amusement park enthusiasts should make sure to check out Cedar Point before or after their trip. This park is consistently ranked among the best in America. Where to Stay: The Island Club provides rental properties for couples, families and friend groups alike. Choose between a charming cottage or a waterfront condo depending on your preference.Salt Fork State Park
What to Do: Salt Fork State Park Lodge is tucked away in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, just a short drive from Cambridge. And once kids (or kids at heart) experience it, they will ask to come back every summer. This is Ohio's ultimate summer destination, offering a crystal-clear lake for water skiing, swimming and inner tubing, an abundance of horseback riding trails, a gigantic swimming pool, and lit campfires by night. After all, what kind of summer getaway would it be without s'mores for dessert? Where to Stay: Salt Fork Lodge offers a wide variety of guest rooms and two-bedroom cabins to house you during your stay, each equipped with exceptional views, upscale amenities, and easy access to the lake and pool. Plus, there are several pet-friendly options available so your four-legged friend doesn't get left behind!Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Photo courtesy of Cuyahoga Valley National Park
What do Do: Cuyahoga Valley National Park has long been lauded as a bucket-list destination not just for Ohioans, but for people from all over the country. The park boasts lush foliage, cascading waterfalls, interesting rock formations, bountiful wildlife, and plenty of hiking and biking trails to experience it all. In fact, a segment of the trail within the park is part of the National B&B Bike Trail, which connects small B&Bs across the country. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad allows you to enjoy views of the breathtaking scenery from a train car, and there are even a few themed excursions throughout the year if you're looking for something non-traditional. Where to Stay: The charming town of Peninsula, located within the park, is a worthy destination on its own. There are a variety of unique accommodations in the area (including camping), but we recommend the Inn at Brandywine Falls. Overlooking the Brandywine Waterfall, the inn was built in 1848 and is on the National Register of Historic Places. Though it has been fully renovated, it hasn't lost an ounce of its historic charm.Enjoy your summer vacation!
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out these 11 incredible road trip destinations within a six-hour drive of Columbus.
March
31
31
11 Things to do in Columbus in Spring 2018 | Festivals, Music + More!
The weather is warm, the flowers are blooming, and everything looks just a little more bright and colorful. Spring is in full swing in Columbus, and while we're tackling our latest spring cleaning chores and getting some sun on our faces, we're also looking forward to exploring our town during this gorgeous season.
From concerts and productions to foodie events and floral showcases, there is so much going on in the area. So get out of the house and put a little spring in your step with these local events and seasonal attractions.
Skip ahead to your preferred activity:
March
29
29
Ohio-Based 16-Bit Bar + Arcade is a Dream Destination for Any Kid at Heart
Fun and silliness don't have to end after childhood — and 16-Bit proves that 100 times over. The bar, currently located in Columbus, Cleveland and Cincinnati, caters to all children at heart, gamers and science fiction fanatics with its immersive arcade experience. It goes above and beyond your typical themed bar, inviting locals and visitors alike to escape into a new world.
Every weekend, the team celebrates something different in pop culture, whether it's something special that happened historically on a certain day or something happening currently, and molds the entire bar around that event. For instance, on Winona Ryder's...
Every weekend, the team celebrates something different in pop culture, whether it's something special that happened historically on a certain day or something happening currently, and molds the entire bar around that event. For instance, on Winona Ryder's...
March
29
29
The Best Things to Do, Eat and Drink in the Short North Neighborhood
Photo courtesy Zoey Duan via the Short North Arts District Facebook page
Affectionately known as the "art and soul of Columbus," the Short North neighborhood is undoubtedly one of the most popular city destinations for locals and visitors alike. The area boasts a high concentration of galleries, delicious restaurants, craft breweries and theaters — in fact, there are so many things to see, explore and taste, it can be difficult to decide what to experience first! We rounded up a list of the best things to do, the best things to eat and drink, and the best places to live in the Short North. Whether you're just stopping by for a short trip (no pun intended), or you're a local looking to experience something new in the area, make sure to check a few of these off of your list!JUMP AHEAD:
What to Do | Where to Eat | Where to Drink | Where to Live
What to Do
See a Show with Short North Stage
Photo courtesy of Zeek Creative via Short North Stage
The Short North isn't just famous for its physical works of art — performing arts thrive in the neighborhood, too! Short North Stage, for instance, produces and performs shows weekly, ranging from Broadway classics to edgy musicals, and progressive one-act plays to cabarets. Find them at the Green Room, Ethel's Lounge or the Garden Theater. Picnic in Goodale Park Surrounded by the charming, 19th century homes of Victorian Village, Goodale Park is the oldest park in Columbus and among the oldest in the United States. The 40-acre space provides a haven for those looking to soak in the sunshine, play a little frisbee or enjoy a picnic, and you'll also find a playground, tennis courts, a park shelter and a pond-side gazebo. Take a Self-Guided Tour of the Public Art
Photo courtesy Zoey Duan via the Short North Arts District Facebook page
The Short North is filled with interesting sculptures, mixed media pieces and giant murals — including the famed Short North Gothic mural. Can you find them all? Take a peek at this guide to public artwork in the area. Take a Foodie Tour with Columbus Food Adventures There's no better way to see (and taste) the neighborhood! Take a leisurely stroll with a guide, who will take you to sample the flavors of the Short North at six to seven of its restaurants. Together, the tastings make up a complete lunch, and along the way, you will learn the colorful history of the area. Book a Pedal Wagon If you're familiar with the Short North (or any other downtown area, for that matter), you've probably seen the large, open-air pedal buses blasting fun music and rolling down the street. Groups of 15 people pedal the vehicle around the neighborhood, visiting the Short North's most notable landmarks, restaurants and local establishments. Go Shopping at a Boutique
Photo courtesy of Artisan Deluxe
Of Columbus' most notable boutiques, many of them are in the Short North neighborhood! Check out shops like Artisan Deluxe, Ladybird, Rowe Boutique, Kiln Mercantile, Red Giraffe Designs and Tigertree, and view our list of the 16 best boutiques in Columbus for additional shop-spiration. Embark on the Short North Gallery Tour The Short North is known for its art galleries, and this is the perfect chance to see them. On the first Saturday of every month, all of the local galleries open their doors to the public after hours, and the streets explode with performers, special events, food, drinks and fun. It's Columbus' favorite night of the month to celebrate art! Note: If you can't make it on the first Saturday, make sure to give yourself a self-guided tour of the local galleries — it's worth it.Where to Eat
For Breakfast: Tasi Cafe Tasi Cafe is open for lunch and dinner (both delicious), but the all-day breakfast menu is what really draws us in the door. The menu features grab 'n' go items like croissant sandwiches, bagels and breakfast burritos, but you'll also find fancier items like biscuits and sausage gravy, cinnamon challah French toast and a steak skillet. For Dessert: Jeni's Splendid Ice CreamsJeni's is not just a delightful Columbus ice cream shop — it's a local institution. Since August of 2007, Jeni's has been scooping happiness to hungry locals and visitors alike. Come by to sample the unique flavors, which range from light and fruity to rich and decadent. Flavors change depending on the season. For New American: The Pearl This polished tavern serves up scratch-made food, classically inspired cocktails, craft beer, and freshly shucked oysters in modern and cozy digs. The menu features globally inspired cuisine and changes depending on the season, but stop by any Thursday to enjoy oysters fried, baked or raw at $2 a pop. Bonus: Brunch here is also amazing. For Taco Tuesday: Bakersfield Short North
Photo courtesy of the Thunderdome Restaurant Group via Bakersfield Short North
Bakersfield Short North boasts a vibrant atmosphere, interesting Mexican street food and margaritas bigger than your face. Everything (down to the tortillas) is handmade for maximum flavor, and there are more than 100 tequilas and American whiskeys to choose from. For Burgers: Stack City Burger Bar Boasting a modern space and an enviable patio, Stack City Burger Bar is known as the gateway to the Short North, and draws in passersby with its fun decor and mouthwatering burgers! Keep it classic with the Big Stack City burger, which features American cheese, lettuce, special sauce and pickles. For Fried Chicken: The Eagle Short North
Photo courtesy of The Eagle Short North
This indoor and outdoor beer hall dishes up comfort classics, craft cocktails and (arguably) the best fried chicken in town. The restaurant starts with cage-free, all natural chicken, brines it, dredges it and drops it into custom-built fryers. The result is perfectly crispy and absolutely mouthwatering. Try it with the house-made hot honey! For Asian Fusion and Sushi: Lemongrass Fusion Come experience the traditional flavors of Asia with a contemporary twist! The menu includes sashimi, nigiri, sushi rolls, seafood entrées, delightful appetizers and so much more. Everything is designed to wow, but reviewers point out that the Lemongrass soup is a showstopper. For Locavore Cuisine: Brassica
Photo courtesy of Jodi Miller via Brassica
Brassica is one of the best healthy restaurants in Columbus, but also one of the most delicious. Stop in for creative and colorful fare that ranges from salads to sandwiches. Bonus: everything on the menu is sourced from local farms and purveyors! For Farm-to-Fork Flavors: The Table Dishes at The Table are inspired by flavors from all over the world, but the team works closely with local farmers and urban gardeners to bring you the freshest produce available. Additionally, the charcuterie and baked goods are all prepared in-house! Stop by for dinner every night of the week (aside from Monday) and brunch on the weekends. For Upscale Fare: The Guild House The Guild House is becoming the go-to destination for date night in Columbus, and once you see the atmosphere, we're sure you'll understand why. The large rustic wooden beams set against plush seating and glittering chandeliers make for a truly special space — and don't even get us started on the food.Where to Drink
Brothers Drake Meadery
Photo courtesy of Brothers Drake Meadery
Brothers Drake Meadery allows you to learn the basics about mead and sample work in progress during its tours, which can be booked by appointment on any day of the week! Of course, you can stop by without an appointment to simply enjoy a glass and take in the atmosphere. North High Brewing North High Brewing features a rotating selection of at least 10 delicious beers on tap — all brewed on site! Come in to sip mainstays like the pale ale, the milk stout or the honey wheat lager. Wine on High
Photo courtesy of Wine on High
This wine bar and retail shop is not only one of our favorite places to pick up a bottle, it's also a great place for date night! This locally owned shop is home to more than 300 varietals of wine, all of which are available to enjoy by the glass, in a tasting or by the bottle. Pair your choice with a charcuterie board filled with artisan cheeses and meats. Service Bar At Service Bar, innovative cocktails are mixed with house-distilled spirits and served alongside delicious shareables. The space is a chic hipster haven, filled with gorgeous modern light fixtures and bold decor.Where to Live
Looking to live in or near the Short North neighborhood? We don't blame you! Imagine being within walking distance to all of these attractions every day. Search for homes in the area by clicking here, or by contacting us today for more information!
March
16
16
The 6 Best Neighborhoods in Columbus According to Walk Score
Though Columbus is the largest city in Ohio (boasting a population of nearly 900,000), it still maintains its friendly, small-town feel. It could be because of our incredible dining scene, our beautiful 19th-century homes or our stunning skyline, but Columbus residents typically feel lucky to live here — and are super friendly to boot! Though you can reach either end of the city by car fairly easily, we love interacting with the local culture and exploring fun neighborhoods via other forms of transportation. And if you're looking to buy in the city, walk score is definitely something to consider!
Columbus has several desirable neighborhoods with very high walk scores, which means that they offer easy access to local attractions, delicious restaurants and o...
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