Posts with tag 'Parks'

Nothing gets done halfway in Ohio. Whatever your interests may be, you can indulge them to your heart's content. Immerse yourself in outdoor activities, cultural pursuits, and more at these popular destinations around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Immerse Yourself in Nature:

Hocking Hills State Park

19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138

Mother Nature shows off all her glory at Hocking Hills State Park, with six distinct areas showcasing a full range of features. The most popular area is Old Man's Cave, named for a hermit who once lived on the grounds and is buried beneath the main recess cave. Activities in the park include hiking, fishing, and rock climbing. If you want an extended stay, there are campgrounds and cottages along with a main lodge. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily and admission is free.

Immerse Yourself in Art: 

Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit

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Millions of viewers around the world have enjoyed the thrilling Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit, and this amazing sensory experience is headed to Cleveland. Gain a new perspective on classics such as Starry Night when you see them projected across 500,000 cubic feet. The background soundtrack adds another element as you wander past the moving images, noting each detail. Adding to the glamorous atmosphere is the secret location at a historic Cleveland venue, which will be announced shortly before opening day. Immersive Van Gogh runs from Thursday, September 9 through Sunday, February 6. Tickets are for specific showtimes from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. and price is $50.

Immerse Yourself in Freedom:

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

50 E. Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center's location on the banks of the Ohio River has special significance. The mighty Ohio marks the physical and symbolic dividing line between Southern slave states and Northern free states. Taking inspiration from stories of the Underground Railroad, the Center is dedicated to keeping the spirit of freedom alive with permanent and special exhibits. Displays such as the Slave Pen, an actual structure recovered less than 60 miles from the Center, bring the realities of that era to life and underscore the heroic sacrifices made in the name of freedom. The Center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10.50 for ages 3-12, with tickets good for specific times.

Immerse Yourself in Air and Space History:

National Museum of the United States Air Force

1100 Spaatz St., Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH 45433

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People's fascination with flight dates back to the ancient Greek myth of Icarus. Get amazing insight into America's distinguished aviation history at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. A dozen galleries feature actual aircraft and other memorabilia from specific eras in aviation, including World War II, Cold War, and the space race. Memorial Park honors the sacrifices made by men and women of the Air Force, such as those missing in action during the Southeast Asia War. Museum hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily and admission is free for all visitors. 

Immerse Yourself in Theme Park Fun:

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870

With 18 world-class roller coasters, Cedar Point is already well-known to thrill-seekers as "America's Roller Coast." But you don't have to be an adrenaline junkie to have a fun-filled time at this amusement park that's been entertaining visitors for 150 years. There are dozens of rides to fit any tolerance level, as well as an 18-acre water park with activities for all ages. Add live entertainment, shopping, and food and beverage, and there's never a dull moment. Visit the website for schedule and hours. Tickets start at $49.99, with add-ins and season passes available.

Immerse Yourself in Rock 'n' Roll:

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

1100 Rock and Roll Blvd. (E. 9th St.), Cleveland, OH 44114

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The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame denotes Cleveland's prominent place in pop culture history. Designed by famed architect I.M. Pei, the distinctive glass pyramid  celebrates music with an incredible assortment of artifacts, exhibits, videos, and interactive displays. In addition to the permanent collections, the Museum hosts a number of limited-time exhibits. Make your own music in the Garage, a fully supplied studio where you and your friends can hold an impromptu jam session. Visit the website for current hours and prices. Advance ticket purchase is required. 

Immerse Yourself in Island Life:

Kelleys Island

Kelleys Island, OH 43438

As you check out the seemingly endless attractions on Kelleys Island, you'll find it hard to believe this lively spot measures just over four square miles in size. Visit the museum to get some background on the island's history, such as Inscription Rock, which is carved with Native American symbols that date back to 1200 A.D. Art lovers will head to the gallery and adjoining sculpture garden, while sporting types can swim, golf, or scuba dive. Scheele Preserve, Lilac Walk, and North Pond are popular spots to take in the island's natural beauty. Don't miss Glacial Grooves, the number one destination on the island, created by the same glacier that formed the Great Lakes and Lake Erie Islands. 

Put-in-Bay

South Bass Island, OH 43456

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Dubbed the "Key West of the North," Put-in-Bay is a convenient getaway for a day or a weekend. In the past, the island has served as home to Native American tribes as well as the naval squadron of Commander Oliver Hazard Perry during the War of 1812. Today, people take the quick 18-minute ferry ride to explore Stonehenge Estate, paddleboard and parasail on the bay, visit the Lake Erie Islands Nature and Wildlife Center, and tour Crystal Cave at Heineman Winery. 

Immerse Yourself in Amish Country:

Ohio Amish Country

6 W. Jackson St., Millersburg, OH 44654

Ohio Amish Country offers a unique opportunity to experience the daily life of another culture. Tour an Amish home or view a working farm from a horse-drawn wagon. Kids love Madhrikan's Theater of Magic, a 90-minute show of spectacular illusions that includes audience participation. A number of local families open their homes to share authentic meals with visitors for a once-in-a-lifetime treat. Bargain hunters can shop till they drop for incredible buys at thrift shops, flea markets, and antique malls. You'll probably find that one day just isn't enough, so plan to spend the night at one of the charming inns or B&Bs in Holmes County.

What a Day for a Daydream

If you could immerse yourself in one activity for an entire week, what would you choose?

Disc golf is a fun sport that groups of all ages can play together while enjoying the outdoors and getting some exercise. It costs very little to get started, and most courses are free or cost just a few dollars to play, and a three-pack of discs that's good for beginners costs about $20. Although you could technically play with a Frisbee, discs made specifically for the sport are smaller and heavier, so you can throw them for much longer distances. If you become more serious about disc golf, you can buy more discs of different types and at a higher price level if you'd like.

Whether you're an experienced disc golfer or you've never played before, you'll have plenty of fun courses to play on around Ohio. Each has its own unique layout and characteristics, and you'll soon develop a list of your favorites.

Check out the following disc golf courses around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Northeast Ohio

Deis Hill Disc Golf Course

1592 N. Crater Ave., Dover, OH 44622

Beautiful scenery and many hills make for an enjoyable yet challenging play at this 18-hole course in Dover. The course is well-maintained, and every hole offers three distinct tees. More seasoned players will appreciate the added difficulty of wooded areas. Be sure to bring plenty of water as this course requires a good amount of walking to complete.

Wingfoot Lake Disc Golf Course

1097-1219 Goodyear Park Blvd., Mogadore, OH 44260

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In addition to several picnic shelters, paved trails, and ball courts, Wingfoot Lake is home to an 18-hole disc golf course. When you're done playing this challenging par 3 course, be sure to take a stroll to the nature center, have a picnic lunch, and let the kids have fun on the playground. Wingfoot also features the Storybook Trail, which includes views of the pond, trees, and Wingfoot Lake as you take in a storybook along the way.

Osborne Park Disc Golf Course

If you're a disc golf novice, you might want to start with the 9-hole course at Osborne Park in Willoughby. While trees or steep hills make some holes more challenging, beginners will appreciate a nice mix of different lengths and difficulty. All players will appreciate the beautiful water views of Lake Erie. The course begins at the rear parking lot.

Columbus

Griggs Reservoir Park

2933 Riverside Dr., Columbus, OH 43221

The disc golf course at Griggs Reservoir Park is made up of 18 holes with large concrete tee pads. Most of the course is long and narrow with lots of mature trees, although some are open. You'll play through some creative features like boulders and bunkers as you make your way through the course, which runs parallel to the Scioto River. On holes 8, 17, and 18, the river factors into play, making the course more interesting. And if you need to buy some discs, you can find them nearby at the Disc Golf Mart.

Brent Hambrick Memorial Disc Golf Course at Hoover Dam

4151 Central College Rd., Westerville, OH 43081

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This 18-hole course is a good mix of flat areas as well as hilly ones and has some nice scenic views. It can often be windy, so you may want to bring along a jacket when the weather's cooler. On the back 9, the course has thick trees and a lot of blind holes. It has multiple tees and pin positions, and tees are concrete. The course is also the home of an annual tournament in honor of Brent Hambrick, a local disc golfer who passed away from leukemia.

Walnut Hill Disc Golf Course

1950 Walnut Hill Blvd, Columbus, OH 43232

The old Walnut Hill traditional golf course has found new life as a disc golf course. It's designed to be a putt and approach practice course that the whole family can enjoy. Property owned by individuals is located next to the course, so take care to avoid sailing an errant disc onto private property.

Cincinnati

Burnet Woods Disc Golf Course

3251 Brookline Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220

The Burnet Woods course is located across from the University of Cincinnati's campus. It's a short course with 9 holes and has dirt tees with wooden planks to indicate tees. It's generally rated as a good course that has some added difficulty due to mature trees, elevation, and challenging pin placements.

Mt. Airy Forest Disc Golf Course

4800 Lodge Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45233

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This course is considered to be pro-caliber, having hosted several world tournaments in the past. The layout is 20 holes, having grown from just 9 holes when the course was opened. You'll find distinct fairways, thick rough, and many elevation changes as you make your way through the course.

Johnson Hills Park Disc Golf Course

7950 Bridle Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45244

Beginners and advanced players alike will enjoy the Johnson Hills Park course, as it serves as a good challenge for beginners and a fun practice course for those with more experience You'll be able to catch some nice shade on hot, sunny days as you play your way through long, open holes and wooded technical holes on Johnson Hill Park's rolling hills.

Let It Fly

Do you have a favorite disc golf course in or around Ohio? Let us know! 

Visiting a dog park with your dog is such a lovely want to enjoy nature. Your dog can socialize with other pups, and you can socialize with other dog owners. If you're in Northeast Ohio, either permanently or to look at homes for sale, then you're in luck. This area has so many lovely dog parks you can visit. Here are a few top options.

City of Mentor Dog Park

6647 Hopkins Rd., Mentor OH, 44060

If you happen to be in Mentor, stop and play in this dog park for a while. Throughout the park, you'll find plenty of benches you can rest on. There's also a water fountain, especially for dogs. 

City of Mentor Dog Park offers separate off-leash areas for small dogs and large dogs. Stick throwing and Frisbees are not permitted for safety reasons, and dogs must remain leashed, except for in the designated off-leash areas. With the open field and picnic tables, this could be a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch while your dog plays.

Canine Meadow Dog Park

9038 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland OH, 44094

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This spacious, 9-acre dog park has separate small dog and large dog areas. It's open daily from sunrise until a half hour past sunrise, so you can visit on your own schedule. There's lots of wide-open space for dogs to run, play, and get rid of their excess energy. 

Canine Meadows also offers a swimming area for pups, which is really nice during the heat of summer. All dogs ages 4 months and older are welcome as long as they're up-to-date on vaccinations. Portable restrooms are available on-site for human use.

Lakewood Dog Park

1699 Valley Pkwy. Lakewood OH, 44107

This is another smaller dog park, but don't let the size fool you. The space is well-maintained and a great place for dogs to play. There is a separate area for small dogs, although small dogs are welcome in the larger dog area, too, if their owners prefer it. 

Lakewood Dog Park does have a water faucet on-site. The footing is sand, so it does not get overly slippery when wet. Dogs must be at least 4 months old and up-to-date on vaccines, and children must be at least 7 years old to accompany their parents.

Tails 'n Trails Dog Park

841 Page Rd., Aurora OH, 44204

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This laid-back little dog park is a great one to stop by for a mid-morning romp. There's a water pump near the entrance where your dog can get a drink, and there are also a few play features, such as a faux fire hydrant. Of course, the park has plenty of comfortable benches for human visitors, too. No pets other than dogs are allowed. 

Open during daylight hours, Tails 'n Trails Dog Park has separate small and large dog areas. There's a double-gate setup so owners can safely unleash their dogs prior to entering the off-leash areas. This is a relatively new park, and it's beautifully maintained. Owners are asked to remain in visual sight of their dogs at all times.

Downtown Dog Park

1505 Merwin Ave., Cleveland OH, 44113

If you happen to be in downtown Cleveland, there's no reason to leave the city to find a dog park. This one is a great choice. It has more than 3,500 square feet of fenced-in play space for your dogs. There are even some fun climbing and play structures scattered throughout the space. Waste receptacles throughout the park encourage visitors to keep the space tidy.

Downtown Dog Park is open daily from 8 am - 9 pm. It's open to dogs of all sizes and isn't usually busy mid-day. While your dog plays, you can enjoy a lovely view of the Cuyahoga River, which runs right by the park.

Bow Wow Beach

5027 Stow Rd. Stow OH, 44224

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Located on the banks of Silver Springs Lake, this dog park offers more than 7.5 acres of space for dogs to run and play. They can even splash around in the water and cool off in the summer. The lake is regularly tested to ensure safety, and the City of Stowe keeps the area well mowed and maintained.

Bow Wow Beach offers on-site dog washing stations and a separate area for small dogs. The park is open from 8 am until sunset, but is closed on Thursday mornings for maintenance.

Schellin Dog Park

427 Maple St., Wooster OH, 44691

Schellin Dog Park, sometimes known as Wooster Dog Park, is one of the smaller parks on this list. However, it is still natural, beautiful, and well worth a visit. There's plenty of shade from the large trees within the park, along with a nice view of the nearby duck pond.

This dog park has one off-leash area for dogs of all sizes. You can also walk your dog, on a leash, in the larger surrounding area. The trail passes soccer fields and other play spaces.

Cooperation Station Dog Park

1439 OH-305, Cortland OH, 44410

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This mid-sized dog park is a great one for dogs who want to run, as there is a lot of open space. There are lots of benches in the open fields, so you can sit and observe your dog's play. 

Cooperation Station Dog Park has a pond where dogs can swim, but it is in a separate, gated area, so your dog won't get wet if you don't want them to. There's also a dog washing station, along with water fountains for both dogs and humans. The cleanup area is always well-stocked with poop bags.

Portage Lakes Dog Park

New Franklin OH, 44319

Located within Portage Lakes State Park, this dog park includes an off-leash area that is partially fenced and bound on the other side by water. Dogs can run, play, and cool off in the water on a hot day. Many love jumping off the docks and into the water! Dogs of all sizes share this same space.

This park offers lovely views of boats out on the lake. There are plenty of shade trees, and breezes coming off the lakes also helps keep things cool. After playtime, you can do some more hiking around the state park.

Bark On Over

Which one of these Northeast Ohio dog parks do you plan to visit with your canine companion?