Posts from August 2017

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August
25

Residents of Cincinnati know there's no better place to call home. From the friendly people and great food to the deep-seated character that unveils itself in our historic neighborhoods, there is just so much to love about this town. There are a number of things every Queen City resident should try at least once in his or her lifetime. We rounded up the ultimate bucket list for you, which includes activities for foodies, art lovers and adventurers alike. How many can you check off? Jump Ahead:

For the Explorer | For the Foodie | For the Adventurer | For the Thrill Seeker | For the Sports Enthusiast | For Those Hungry for Knowledge | For the Child at Heart | For the Lover of the Arts

FOR THE EXPLORER

Loveland Castle

Photo courtesy of Loveland Castle

Conquer a Nearby Castle Interestingly enough, Ohio is home to a large number of castles. Some are haunted and some are just enchanting! Read up on our state's coolest castles and the fascinating stories behind them. Ride the Elevator Up 49 Floors to the Carew Tower Observation Deck Completed in 1930, Carew Tower stands tall in the heart of downtown Cincinnati. Head up to the top to witness one of the city's best views! Visit the Cincinnati Union Terminal Undoubtedly, the architecture of the Union Terminal is a sight in itself  — you might have to pick your jaw up off of the floor after witnessing the largest half-dome structure in the western hemisphere — but don't miss out on the special exhibits and the OMNIMAX Theater held within. Stay a Night at The Golden Lamb in Lebanon Located in the heart of downtown Lebanon, The Golden Lamb has stood as a community gathering place since 1803, making it the oldest continuously operating business in Ohio. Dine like royalty at the restaurant, and stay a night in the historic rooms. Go Camping S'mores and a night under the stars — it doesn't get better than that! There are plenty of incredible camping destinations within easy reach of Cincinnati. Explore all of Cincinnati's Coolest Neighborhoods From Over the Rhine to the Incline District, our town is filled to the brim with up-and-coming neighborhoods — all of which are perfect for spending the afternoon. Challenge yourself to visit them all! See the Butterfly Show at the Krohn Conservatory Open year round, the Krohn Conservatory is a nationally recognized collection of more than 3,500 plant species from all over the world, but it also boasts a vibrant butterfly show every year! Drive Across the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge This iconic bridge spans the Ohio River between Cincinnati and Covington, and was the longest in the world when it opened in 1867. Party on the Purple People Bridge Don't worry — the bridge is not guarded by a purple people eater. This stunning piece of architecture is actually named for its unique hue. Every Wednesday night during the summer, enjoy a weekly "Party on the Purple" with the residents of the Queen City, which will feature live music and refreshments.

FOR THE FOODIE

Indulge in a Heaping Plate of Cincinnati-Style Chili Our city's signature dish is a flavorful Mediterranean-spiced meat sauce dolloped over the top of hot dogs or spaghetti, or simply enjoyed straight from the bowl. True chili heads know that you can enjoy the dish one of five "ways." Learn more about the dish, as well as where to find it, in this complete guide to Cincinnati-style chili. Grab a Mug of Root Beer at the Root Beer Stand This old-school spot is famous for the gigantic mugs of refreshing, ice cold root beer that the staff makes in house. Enjoy a glass alongside a foot-long hot dog, and soak in the classic drive-in atmosphere. Sample the Queen City's Best Cuisine at Taste of Cincinnati Taste of Cincinnati is the longest running culinary arts festival in the United States, and takes over the streets annually on Memorial Day Weekend. Sample the fare from more than 40 restaurants and dance along to live music! Urbana Cafe

Photos courtesy of Urbana Cafe

Find the World's Best Cup of Coffee Cincinnati is home to some of the best coffee shops in the Midwest! Start your day off right and grab a cup of java from one of these nine hot spots. They are all worth a visit. Soak in the Atmosphere at Sotto The atmosphere, just as much as the food, has made Sotto a Cincinnati staple. Stop in to witness the understated romance, rustic charm and unparalleled authentic Italian cuisine. Taste the Difference at Graeter's Ice Cream With more than 145 years of experience under its belt, we believe Graeter's Ice Cream is the ultimate authority on handcrafted French pot ice cream. Enjoy a Pint at Mt. Carmel Brewing Company Set in the cellar of a 1924 farmhouse, Mt. Carmel Brewing Company pioneered the craft beer scene in Cincinnati. Stop by for a pint or growler fill with loved ones, and be sure to ask about the history! Indulge in an Authentic German Brew from the Hofbrauhaus in Newport This spectacular beer hall is modeled to be almost identical to its sister location in Munich! A beer here is about as close to the authentic German experience as you can get. Split a Bottle at Moyer's Winery Stop in at this local favorite beside the Ohio River for upscale American fare and locally produced wines. Grab a Bite at the Findlay Market This market, which has graced Cincinnati since the mid-1800s, is filled to the brim with energetic merchants, artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, warm baked goods and more!

Photo courtesy of Queen City Radio

Sit on the Patio at Queen City Radio Located in the historic Over The Rhine neighborhood, Queen City Radio offers up craft cocktails, beer on draft and tasty burgers — all served with a side of Cincinnati culture. Take a Riverside Food Tour Taste the city's best bites (including some hidden gems) and learn all about the history of Cincinnati! That's what we call food for thought.

FOR THE ADVENTURER

Try a New Workout Class Cincinnati is full of fun fitness opportunities — and you won't even need to dole out the big bucks to participate. Here are nine workouts around town that are completely free. Kayak on the Little Miami River In Cincinnati, we are lucky to have access to the Little Miami River, which provides a haven for river rats and adventure seekers. There are a plethora of local rental companies that can outfit you with gear and point you in the right direction if you're looking to test your skills on the river, or simply enjoy a leisurely excursion. Our favorites include Little Miami Canoe, Scenic River Canoe Excursions, Morgan's Outdoor Adventures and Whitewater Canoe Rental. Go Swimming at Caesar Creek State Park Caesar Creek is one of Cincinnati's most beloved hidden gems! Hike, bike, boat or ride around the park before hitting the beach — such an oasis so close to home. Go Fishing There's nothing quite as satisfying as a calm morning on the water. The Great Miami River offers so many awesome fishing holes perfect for catching bluegills, bass, carp and channel catfish via fly fishing or lures, and the Mad River is one of the best trout streams in the state. Gear up at On the Way Bait & Tackle.

Photo courtesy of Alex Perfect via Perfect North Slopes

Ski at Perfect North Slopes We aren't known for our powder days here in Ohio, but you can catch a little bit of wintery paradise at the nearby Perfect North Slopes, just half an hour away. And Complete the Mud Stash When Perfect North isn't covered in snow, it's the perfect destination for summer activities! Each year in early September, the venue hosts a muddy, obstacle-filled race to the finish called the Mud Stash. It's known to be one of the most entertaining competitions in the region! Compete in the Flying Pig Marathon The Flying Pig Marathon celebrated its 20th anniversary in May 2017, and remains one of the biggest party weekends in the city! Register for next year's race here.  

FOR THE THRILL SEEKER

Conquer the Coasters at Kings Island Located just a short jaunt away in Mason, Kings Island offers 364 acres of pure fun for thrill seekers. This park has received widespread recognition for its record-breaking attractions, large water park and innovative roller coasters.

Photo courtesy of SkyDive Cincinnati

Leap from the Skies at SkyDive Cincinnati Skydiving is perhaps the ultimate bucket list item, so you might as well check it off now. SkyDive Cincinnati offers tandem jumps with an instructor, as well as full courses to help you earn your skydiving certification. Sure, you think you're tough now. Just wait until the plane door opens at 16,000 feet! Take a Dip at Sunlite Pool in Coney Island Sunlite Pool is the largest, flat-surface swimming pool in North America — perfect for cooling off after exploring the park's many attractions! Tour the Spring Grove Cemetery Craving a spooky encounter? The Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum is the fourth largest cemetery in the United States, and boasts gorgeous scenery, iconic Gothic-style architecture, and lots of history.

FOR THE SPORTS ENTHUSIAST

Photo courtesy of the The Cincinnati Reds

See the Reds Win at the Great American Ball Park The Great American Ball Park is a sight at any time of day, but when the stadium is filled from end to end with that signature scarlet hue and thousands of cheering fans, there is no place we would rather be. Root, root, root for the home team — and make sure you enjoy a coney in the stands! Engage in a Years-Long Rivalry in the Crosstown Shootout   When the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Xavier Musketeers face off in their annual showdown, which side will you be on? Camp on the Infield at the Kentucky Speedway Yes, there is a way to be closer to the action! Get into the thick of it by camping on the infield at the Kentucky Speedway. Witness a Cincinnati Cyclones Victory at the Kelly Cup This could be their year! Whether you're a hockey fan or not, you had best be cheering for the correct team when the season starts.

FOR THOSE HUNGRY FOR KNOWLEDGE

Check out the Latest Bestseller at the Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County As the 12th largest public library in the country, this is a haven for book-lovers. Take an Underground Tour of the Cincinnati Subway Most people don't even realize that the underground system exists. Take a tour to learn about the forgotten tunnels and how they have influenced the city today. Star Gaze at the Cincinnati Observatory Located in Hyde Park, this iconic Cincinnati landmark is dedicated to giving its visitors an introduction to the universe. Visit the American Sign Museum This quirky museum celebrates the sign in all its forms, and covers more than 100 years of American history with its colorful displays.   Enlighten Yourself at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center Cincinnati played a large role in the Underground Railroad and the Civil War. Learn all about it at this museum.

FOR THE CHILD AT HEART

Monkey Around at the Cincinnati Zoo Feeding a giraffe, riding the safari train and taking a spin on the Conservation Carousel are just a few of the activities that await you at the Cincinnati Zoo!

Photo courtesy of 16-Bit

Play at 16-Bit This arcade-style bar redefined the Cincinnati nightlife experience! Enjoy more than 50 classic arcade games alongside bar bites and adult bevvies.

Photo courtesy of Brian Douglas via Oktoberfest Zinzinnati

Join in the Giant Chicken Dance at Oktoberfest Zinzinnati You don't want to be a chicken, you don't want to be a duck, but you definitely want to be at this fun-filled event, which is the second largest Oktoberfest celebration worldwide (upstaged only by the original in Munich). Visit Washington Park in Over the Rhine Let your children splash through the fountains, or bring a picnic and simply soak in the beautiful Ohio sunshine. A visit to Washington Park is the perfect way to spend any leisurely afternoon.  

FOR THE LOVER OF THE ARTS

Visit the Taft Museum of Art Cincinnati's fine art collection is actually housed in a gorgeous historic mansion downtown — a structure which is considered to be one of the finest examples of Palladian-style architecture in the country. Of course, the distinguished collections inside are the main event here. See a Show at the Aronoff Center for the Arts There's no better place to see a Broadway show, ballet performance, stand-up comedy show or musical than at Cincinnati's signature performing arts center. View the schedule and buy your tickets here.

Photo courtesy of Funky Sunshine

Take a Turn Around Funky Sunshine This quirky shop has a serious passion for color, good vibes and laughter. Poke around the shop, and maybe take a piece of tie-dye artwork or apparel home with you! Peruse the Cincinnati Art Museum The Cincinnati Art Museum houses a collection of more than 65,000 works spanning six centuries. Come marvel at the works of Picasso, Botticelli, Monet and more. Shop Around at Black Plastic Records Black Plastic Records houses one of the most impressive music collections in the state! Even if you don't have a record player, you will enjoy perusing the shelves.  
August
25

This post was updated September 19, 2019 to include current information and recommendations.

It's hard to believe that fall is already upon us. Though we had a tough time bidding summer farewell, we are thrilled at the prospect of a new season filled with vibrant colors, warm apple cider and plenty of pumpkins. Visiting the pumpkin patch is a beloved tradition here in Ohio, as it allows families to spend time together soaking up the autumn sunshine. Whether you plan to carve your selection into a jack-o'-lantern, paint it with fun colors, or bake it into a pie, choosing your own pumpkin at a local farm is so much more fun than picking one up from the store. Most even offer hayrides, corn mazes and games for the little ones, so you can make a full day out of it! We rounded up our favorites below, all within easy reach of Columbus. Enjoy! The Best Pumpkin Patches Near Columbus Include: 

Pigeon Roost Farm | Lehner's Pumpkin Farm | Leeds Farm | Hidden Creek Farms | Lynd Fruit Farm | Lohstroh Family Farms | Jacquemin Farms | Schacht Farm Market | Branstool Orchards

Pigeon Roost Farm

4413 National Rd. SW, Hebron

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Roost Farm

2018 will mark 38 years of family fun at Pigeon Roost Farm, and it's no surprise this local pumpkin haven has been successful since the very beginning. The farm is open Tuesday through Sunday from September 15 through Halloween and boasts tractor-pulled wagon rides out to the pumpkin patch, flavorful refreshments, face painting, multiple mazes, farm animals, a fort, giant slides, impressive pumpkin displays and much more. 

Lehner's Pumpkin Farm

2920 State Route 203, Radnor

Photo courtesy of Lehner's Pumpkin Farm

Lehner's Pumpkin Farm is one of the most popular destinations for pumpkin picking in the state, boasting more than 50 acres of pumpkin patch and a full gauntlet of activities to keep the little ones entertained. Get lost in the eight-acre maze, cuddle a baby bunny, and challenge yourself to hit a new record with the giant slingshot (which flings little pumpkins across the field).

Leeds Farm

8738 Marysville Rd., Ostrander

Photo courtesy of Leeds Farm

Leeds Farm is the epitome of autumn family fun. Spend the day soaking up the Ohio sunshine with your loved ones as you marvel over pumpkins big and small. Don't miss out on the family-friendly activities, which include paintball, zip lining, hayrides and animal feeding.

Hidden Creek Farms

581 South Galena Rd., Sunbury The Fall Festival at Hidden Creek Farms is one of Sunbury's most anticipated events. On weekends from September 22 through October 28, step onto the farm for a day filled with fun and games which include pumpkin decorating, pony rides, a great pumpkin slide, a straw maze, farm animals, and hayrides out to the pumpkin patch. You will leave with memories worth treasuring, and the perfect pumpkin to decorate at home!

Lynd Fruit Farm

9090 Morse Rd. SW, Pataskala

Photo courtesy of Lynd Fruit Farm

Lynd Fruit Farm is a local favorite—not just because of the bountiful and fresh produce, but also because of the warm and welcoming staff that treats customers like family. Enjoy hayrides, a giant corn maze and an unbeatable selection of giant pumpkins. This is one pumpkin patch you will return to year after year.

Lohstroh Family Farms

15632 SR 56 SE, Mt. Sterling   Lohstroh Family Farms is the place to be on October weekends and even well into November. Here, you'll find a wide variety of activities to engage kids from sunup to sundown, including a corn maze, a caterpillar crawl, the graffiti barn wall and plenty of animals to visit. But the main event, of course, is the hayride to the pumpkin patch. $6 will cover the ride as well as the pumpkin!

Jacquemin Farms

7427 Hyland Croy Rd., Plain City

Photo courtesy of Jacquemin Farms

Jacquemin Farms is open on weekdays if you're just stopping by to pick something up, but the real fun happens on Saturdays and Sundays. During the weekend, you have the option to hop on a hayride to pick your own pumpkin from more than 15 acres of fields. After you've chosen the best one, come back to the farm to enjoy family-friendly activities, including a straw maze, giant air toys and grain boxes for the little ones. And don't forget to pick up a seasonal donut, too! 

Schacht Farm Market

5950 Shannon Rd., Canal Winchester The 60 acres of Schacht Farms become a child's paradise during the fall months when the fields are opened for pick-your-own pumpkin season. Wander into the fields with your loved ones and choose from the cream of the crop. Afterward, reward yourself with a cup of cider from the market.

Branstool Orchards

5895 Johnstown Utica Rd., Utica

Photo courtesy of Branstool Orchards

Located just 45 minutes outside of Columbus, Branstool Orchards sits on a gorgeous piece of countryside in Utica, Ohio. The farm is best known for its peaches, but don't miss out on the pumpkins during autumn. Rumor has it that since the fields are slightly less crowded than those near Columbus, you will have your pick of the biggest and best varieties. The farm is open seven days a week for pumpkin picking, so stop by whenever you like—and make sure to grab some fresh apples while you're here!   

Happy fall!

August
25

In our opinion, Columbus is one of the best places in the world to call home — and we think the other 900,000 people who have chosen to live here would agree with us. Our city boasts scenic parks, top-notch restaurants, a vibrant music scene, buzzing nightlife and the friendliest people this side of the Ohio River. If you're looking for a home in the area, but would like to avoid some of the maintenance that comes with it, a condominium might be just the ticket. Here are seven ultra-chic condos for sale in Columbus, each boasting easy access to the best attractions our town has to offer, and stunning views you can only find...

Click Here to Read More...

August
17

This post was updated on August 28, 2019, to reflect current information

The leaves are starting to change, pumpkin is taking over every menu in town, and that familiar chill has returned to the air. Fall is upon us again! We look forward to this season every year for the fun traditions it provides, such as picking your own apples. A day in the orchards gathering a fresh harvest with loved ones is the perfect way to ring in the new season — and there's no denying that apples straight from the tree just taste better. Thankfully, the gorgeous Ohio countryside is filled with orchards and farms filled to the brim with juicy, crisp apples ripe for picking. Below, we rounded up some of our absolute favorites. Enjoy!

Patterson Fruit Farm

8675 Mulberry Road, Chesterland At Patterson Fruit Farm, producing fresh fruit is a way of life. The team here enjoys providing food for their local community and sharing the farming experience with families who stop by for a day of adventuring. During apple season (August through early winter), the farm invites you to take a wagon ride and pick your own apples from more than 30 varieties grown on-site. Fun Fest runs from September 14th through October 27th, and boasts a full gauntlet of family-friendly activities, including horse-drawn wagon rides, giant haystacks, a corn maze, pumpkin painting and more!

 

Hillcrest Orchards

50336 Telegraph Road, Amherst Hillcrest Orchards is responsible for the growth of quality apples, pumpkins, peaches and happy family memories. On weekends during the fall, you will be treated to a fun wagon ride out to the orchard, as well as sage picking advice to help you harvest the cream of the crop. Pick four bags and the fifth is free!

Bauman Orchards

161 Rittman Avenue, Rittman

Photo courtesy of Bauman Orchards

If you make the hour-long journey to Bauman Orchards in Rittman, you will be treated to more than 40,000 apple trees and 18 different varieties (10 available to pick yourself). Guests are invited to pick their own apples from September 2 through October 14. After a long day in the orchard, reward yourself with some fresh-pressed apple cider (and maybe a few baked goods) in the market. Looking for a pumpkin, gourd or squash for eating or decorating? You can find those in the market as well.   

Geig's Orchard

8468 Wooster Pike, Seville Geig's might be a perfect locale for a fun-filled day of apple picking, but it's also a top-notch place to grab a fresh-pressed apple cider, pie fillings, jams and more. Locals wait all year for the market to open so they can ring in the fall season properly!  

Miller's Apple Hill, Ltd.

50549 State Route 113, Amherst This family-owned market is a favorite year-round, but especially during the fall months. Starting in September, bring the family and pick your own apples in the scenic orchards. After your arms are full, peruse the market for fresh pastries, baking supplies and more! You're going to need some apple pie materials, after all.  

Pick 'n' Save Orchard

1222 Ledge Road, Medina Most of the customers at Pick 'n' Save Orchard are regulars that return year after year. This is likely due to the unparalleled hospitality and family-friendly environment that has become tradition here. The farm is a wonderful destination for fruit picking year-round (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, oh my), but the apples are the main event. Stop by between 10am and 4pm Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays to see for yourself!

 

Monroe's Orchard and Farm Market

6313 Pioneer Trail, Hiram

Photo courtesy of Monroe's Orchard

Monroe's Orchard is a must-visit location for families looking for a fun day out in the sun. You'll find fresh fruits year-round, but it would be a shame to miss the sight of the bountiful apple orchards during the fall months. Stop in for a pick-your-own experience you won't soon forget.  

Stotler's Orchard LLC

4597 Laubert Road, Atwater This charming farm in the heart of Randolph, Ohio is home to more than 113 varieties of apples. A selection that large is sure to please even the pickiest of apple pickers! After you've grabbed a few crisp ones off the tree, take them back to the main lodge, where they will split it and drizzle it with caramel for you to enjoy on site. Make sure to accompany your treat with some house-made apple cider!  

Rittman Orchards & Farm Market

13548 Mt. Eaton Road, Doylestown

Photo courtesy of Rittman Orchards

Rittman Orchards is known far and wide as one of the most gorgeous settings to spend an afternoon with loved ones. The market is open year-round and offers a wide variety of baked goods and fresh produce, but fruit-picking is the real draw of this location. Strawberries, peaches, apples and more are all available for you to grab straight from the source!  

Sage's Apples

11355 Chardon Road, Chardon

Photo courtesy of Sage's Apples

This local favorite is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, and it's no wonder it has been so successful for so long! The farm grows more than 50 varieties of apples and sells a wide range of fresh produce in its market year-round. While you aren't actually able to pick your own apples at this location, the market offers several delicious varieties that you won't be able to find anywhere else. It's certainly worth a visit.  
August
11

It seems like just last week we were cheering on the Buckeyes and singing the chorus of Carmen Ohio, but it's once again time to dig out your gray and scarlet for football season! The Buckeyes never fail to impress, and their on-field success draws hordes of fans to support them at home and on the road. Of course, this means the pre-game tailgating festivities are some of the rowdiest in the country. Here is everything you need to know about tailgating for a Buckeyes game, but in short, the goal is to arrive early, cheer loudly (for the correct team, mind you), and have a blast. Go Buckeyes! Where to Go

Photo courtesy of the Varsity Club

Snagging an invite to a friend's tent or tailgating party is one of the most common ways to celebrate, but if you aren't sure where to start, here are some of our favorite venues in the stadium vicinity.

The Varsity Club

Hineygate was a popular pre-game party and a Buckeyes tradition since 1984, but was unfortunately shut down in 2009 after Ohio State purchased the Holiday Inn, where it was held. Buckeyes fans won't be silenced that easily, however, and the venue has since moved to the Varsity Club. The tailgating extravaganza, now dubbed the "Crank it Up Party," still draws more than 10,000 party-goers over the course of game day, and remains the world's largest (and in our opinion, best) tailgating party in the country. It is something every Bucks fan should experience at least once.

The Bier Stube

The Bier Stube has served Columbus since 1966, and despite the drastic change in the surrounding area, maintains its historic charm. Here, you'll find an impressive array of beer on draft at low prices, and plenty of locals celebrating before, during and after the game.

Lucky's Stout House

This Irish-inspired bar is located just across from South Campus Gateway, and serves more than 125 different beers. Make your choice and join your fellow Ohio State fans in the bar area or on the large outdoor patio.

Little Bar

The Little Bar has a big reputation for its rowdy game day shenanigans. Enjoy free-flowing beer and well drinks all day long as you get ready for the big game. When it comes time for kickoff, head outside to watch from the big screen!

Hendoc's

This dive bar has been a favorite among locals for years — and for good reason. It remains one of the absolute best sports to watch the game (or any sporting event, for that matter), in an upbeat, friendly environment. Cheer along with the crowd, and enjoy a top-notch selection of drinks and bites. What to Wear

Photo courtesy of Buckeye Corner

Supporters of the opposing team are bound to get a little bit of flack — so you best be wearing gray and scarlet to avoid any confusion. Here are the best shops to stock up on your apparel for game day (and every day).

The Ohio State University Gift Shop

You are bound to find the best Ohio State products right at the source, which is why we always recommend The Ohio State University football stadium gift shop. You might pay a little more, but you can ensure your gear is authentic. Plus, shopping around for tee shirts, hats, tees and even stamped toilet paper in the campus gift shop is an experience in its own right.

Buckeye Corner

Find officially licensed gear for The Ohio State University all year round at Buckeye Corner, located on Polaris Parkway. This store carries the standard tee shirts, hats, sweatshirts and more, but you will also find rare memorabilia, collector's items and more.

Conrad's College Gifts

Conrad's College Gifts never fails to impress with its wide selection of shirts, mugs, pet accessories, party supplies and more. Plus, the prices will likely be a bit lower here than at the campus gift shop. Stop by for all of your tailgating needs, including football bead necklaces, mini footballs, koozies, seat cushions, foam fingers and more! Where to Stock up for the Party If you're partying at a friend's house or hosting a tailgating extravaganza by the stadium, you will definitely need some grilling supplies, some seven-layer dip, some peanut butter and chocolate buckeyes, and plenty of beverages. Here are some nearby shops to keep in mind.

Giant Eagle Supermarket

2801 N. High St. For chips, dip, and other necessary groceries, Giant Eagle is your best bet. Conveniently located near campus, this supermarket offers frequent sales and rewards programs, which will help you save money on your weekly tailgates.

Lucky's Market

2770 N. High St. This smaller, neighborhood market is known for its broad selection of healthy and organic foods, but also gives Columbus locals the resources they need for easy weeknight meals and game day treats to please, including coupons and recipes. It's the perfect place to stock up on a few locally sourced brats and burgers for game day.

Lineage Brewing

2971 N. High St. What's a tailgate without good beer, anyway? Lineage is one of our favorite spots to grab a pint with friends before the game, or get a growler filled on the way to our chosen venue. Lineage serves up flavorful and innovative beers on tap, and earned a spot on our list of the best breweries in Columbus. Note, you probably won't be allowed to bring glass into the stadium area, but a full growler from a local brewery is a great option for a laid back party at a friend's house.

Campus State Liquor Store

2465 N. High St. You won't find a better beverage selection within miles of campus, and the service is tough to beat. The staff is happy to provide you with recommendations, be it for yourself or for a large crowd. How to Behave Wearing the school colors might not be enough for your fellow fans. You will also have to hoot, holler, and act the part if you want to be truly accepted into the fray. Here are some rules of thumb to follow while you're rooting for the home team.

Follow the Rules

Nothing ruins the party quite like getting kicked out of it. If you're celebrating in or near the stadium, you will want to read up on the official list of school policies here.

Sing Carmen Ohio (and Sing it Loudly)

This catchy tune wasn't created as the official Ohio State song. In fact, it was written by freshman Fred Cornell in 1902. Still, it remains the only school song still in existence, and truly represents the spirit of Ohio State students. Expect a chorus (or a few) to break out at football games. Study the lyrics here so you are well prepared.

Know the Buckeye Battle Cry

You may not realize it, but you have a big job as a fan. Your responsibility is to terrify the other team with your thunderous cheering and perfectly executed Buckeye Battle Cry.

Show up to the Game

Tailgating is fun and all, but remember the reason you're doing it! Make sure to support your team properly by cheering them on at the stadium, or with fellow fans in a local sports bar. If you did actually snag tickets, try to get there early! The crowds getting into the stadium will be thick, and you will want plenty of time to find your seat (and grab a snack) before the game starts.
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