
With signs of habitation dating back to 13,000 BC, Ohio has a rich and colorful past. No matter what you learned in history books, it can't compare to seeing it with your own eyes. Whether it's a castle in Northeast Ohio, a covered bridge near Columbus, or a library in Cincinnati, a visit to these incredible sites will give you a new appreciation of our state.
North Chagrin Reservation, 2844 River Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
If you're fascinated by the fictional royalty of Game of Thrones or real-life royalty of Queen Elizabeth and her family, don't miss Squire's Castle. Located at North Chagrin Reservation, Squire's Castle was built in the 1890s and patterned after German and English baronial castles. The gatehouse also serves as the trailhead for one of the North Chagrin's more scenic routes, and there's an adjacent picnic area that includes grills and seating. North Chagrin Reservation is open daily from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Case Western Reserve University, 1855 Ansel Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106
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The design and backstory of Maltz Performing Arts Center are as compelling as the events that take place inside it. Founded in 1850 as a temple for the local Reform Jewish congregation, the building has a unique heptagonal shape to fit the lot's odd configuration while approximating a circle, symbolizing unity. Thanks to the creative architecture and stunning interior, the building was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. A partnership between the Temple and Case Western Reserve University led to the creation of the Performing Arts Center, which hosts a number of concerts, lectures, and other cultural activities.
714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303
While many historical buildings bear the name of their original residents, that's not the case with Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term that translates to "stone quarry," which is a nod to the property's most prominent natural feature. The estate served as the home for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber, but they also generously opened their doors to the public for frequent community events. Hours are 10 a.m. - dusk Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults and $6 for ages 6-17.
1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203
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Natural and man-made history combine to spectacular effect at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The 13-acre facility, located just two miles from downtown Columbus, is anchored by the John D. Wolfe Palm House. This glass greenhouse, which dates back to 1895, features 43 species of palms, including fiddle-leaf figs that were part of the original plantings. Seasonal and visiting exhibitions supplement the lush gardens and botanical biomes on permanent display. Franklin Park Conservatory is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.
145 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130
Do you think of art as something that requires specialized skill or talent? The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio has a mission to awaken the creative spirit in everyone. Programming includes themed exhibits, classes, workshops, and lectures aimed at making art accessible to all. Welcome the new year with the upcoming exhibit, "Hindsight: The Art of Looking Back," which is particularly appropriate for exploring the past. "Classrooms" are located in the Reese-Peters House, a Federal/Greek Revival-style home built in 1835 and widely acclaimed as the finest house in Lancaster. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 1 - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
Arney Run Park, 2340 Meister Rd. SW, Lancaster, OH 43130
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Covered bridges, once a common sight around the countryside, have become rare but treasured relics of the past. Only about one in 10 have survived to the present day, with Mink Hollow Covered Bridge being one of the more picturesque structures. At a length of 54 feet, this charming "house bridge" boasts the longest official name of any bridge in the country: Mink Hollow over Arney Run in Oil Mill Hollow near the Borcher's Mill Covered Bridge. Dog-friendly Arney Run Park is also a great spot for hiking, photography, bird-watching, and picnicking. Park hours are dawn till dusk, 365 days a year.
8070 Tylersville Rd., West Chester, OH 45069
Before social media and television, news and entertainment were transmitted across radio waves. The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting highlights the development and impact of radio technology, both locally and globally. Cincinnati native Powel Crosley Jr., once dubbed "the Henry Ford of radio," was the driving force behind the Bethany Relay Station, which broadcasted from the building that now houses the museum. Other attractions include displays of early wireless transmitters and a fully-equipped ham station where you can observe the workings of shortwave radio. The museum is open weekends from 1 - 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for everyone aged 16 and older.
414 Walnut St. #1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Established in 1835, the Mercantile Library is one of only about two dozen membership libraries that still exist in the country. Spread across the 11th and 12th floors of the building, the library holds more than 80,000 volumes on subjects ranging from contemporary fiction and poetry to travel and history. Harriet Beecher Stowe, Salman Rushdie, and Julia Child are just a few of the exciting guest lecturers who have appeared at the Mercantile. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.
1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409
Kitty Hawk may be the site of their first flights, but the dreams of the Wright Brothers first took hold in their hometown of Dayton. Carillon Historical Park shines a light on the Wright Brothers and other regional pioneers of transportation and industry. The 65-acre open-air museum includes displays such as the Wright Brothers National Museum, Great 1913 Flood Exhibit, and Heritage Center of Dayton Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship. Carillon Historical Park is open 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for ages 3-17.
What site in Ohio is associated with a significant memory from your own past?

Did you know that Columbus has one of the most vibrant international food scenes of any city in America? Whether you're an adventurous foodie, someone who loves to experience other cultures through unique cuisine, or you're just looking for a fun, fresh experience for your next date night, the authentic, international restaurants of Columbus are sure to have something for you. Start planning your next international dining adventure with our guide to going global for dinner around Columbus.
5221 Godown Rd., Columbus, OH 43235
We start our journey with some familiar food from south of the border, cooked to absolute perfection. Los Gauchos Taqueria has long been one of the most popular Mexican restaurants in Columbus, best known for its famed Tacos Al Pastor, which blend sweet, savory, and spicy flavors. Operated by the Nonatos family, the main Los Gauchos Taqueria location is a small, inviting restaurant perfect for enjoying a delicious lunch. The brand has become so popular that there are now three locations around Columbus, along with the original taco truck.
5788 Columbus Square, Columbus, OH 43231
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Up next is a trip to Africa – Somalia, to be precise. There is a vibrant Somalian immigrant community in Columbus, and Hoyo's Kitchen is an excellent place to sample authentic Somali food. Hoyo means "mother" in Somali, a fitting name since this restaurant is operated by the Hassan brothers along with their mother. Hoyo's Kitchen offers an outstanding Somali dining experience, with a delicious selection of bowls, salads, and wraps made with classic Somali recipes. There are some great vegetarian options here, with something that appeals to every taste.
59 Spruce St., Columbus, OH 43215
For a taste of Tibet and Nepal, it's hard to top the experience at Momo Ghar North Market. Located in the heart of a bustling market, Momo Ghar has become famous for its authentic Tibetan and Nepali dumplings. Served alongside a spicy, flavorful sauce, these dumplings simply have to be tasted to be believed. Enjoy some time chatting with the friendly staff while your food is prepared, and take in the sights of the market. Momo Ghar also serves a great selection of comfort foods, along with Nepali and Tibetan desserts.
680 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Take your taste buds on a journey to the Mediterranean at Brassica Sandwiches + Salads, where you can find traditional Lebanese cuisine and so much more. Inspired by their grandfather, who immigrated from Lebanon nearly 100 years ago, brothers Kevin and Darren opened Brassica with the goal of serving fresh, healthy, authentic food. Everything is made from organic ingredients, the meat served here is antibiotic-free, and the whole wheat pita is prepared fresh in-house every day. Order a delicious meal, and pair it with one of the distinctive, local craft brews available on tap.
1911 Tamarack Circle N., Columbus, OH 43229
We return to Africa to sample the flavors of Ghana at Drelyse African Restaurant, which was founded by Ghanaian chef Lisa Bannerman who moved to the United States 20 years ago. After serving delicious Ghanaian food to friends and family around Columbus, Bannerman decided to open Drelyse African Restaurant over a decade ago. Try dozens of traditional African dishes prepared with recipes that have been passed down for generations. Drelyse African Restaurant also offers one of the best buffets in Columbus, so you can sample a little bit of everything on the menu.
984 Morse Rd., Columbus, OH 43229
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With a focus on authentic Salvadoran cuisine and excellent service, Ranchero Kitchen is a great place for a group outing. The husband and wife team of Aleyda Rodriguez and Julio Cesar founded Ranchero Kitchen as a passion project, with a smaller location at an international market. That smaller version of Ranchero Kitchen quickly became so popular that a larger space was needed, and the current restaurant opened to rave reviews in 2017. If you've been searching for a different spin on some of your favorite Latin American dishes as well as some unique recipes from El Salvador, you're sure to love a trip to Ranchero Kitchen.
5426 Cleveland Ave., Columbus, OH 43231
Don't let the unassuming name fool you. A trip to Yemeni Restaurant is sure to please and give you a little taste of the Middle East close to home in Columbus. The menu is packed with authentic Yemeni dishes, all cooked fresh and served with a smile. The large, freshly prepared Tandoori bread here is always a highlight and pairs well with just about every dish on the menu. Yemeni Restaurant is also a community gathering place, popular among the many diverse cultures that call Columbus home.
1577 King Ave., Columbus, OH 43212
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Our next culinary adventure will take you across the Pacific to the Philippines, with modern, home-cooked Filipino dishes served fresh in Columbus. Bonifacio was born from the Filipino tradition of greeting guests with a great meal and sharing modern Filipino cuisine with the world. Bonifacio is open for takeout and delivery, but it's hard to top the experience of sitting down for a meal at the restaurant. No matter how you order, you're sure to love the authentic Filipino dining experience at Bonifacio.
1173 Old Henderson Rd., Columbus, OH 43220
We close our culinary journey with some fantastic Japanese cuisine at Akai Hana Japanese Restaurant, where you will find the best sushi in Columbus and so much more. What started as a small, 40-seat restaurant has grown into an atmospheric 130-seat dining destination serving all of your Japanese favorites. Akai Hana has been a local favorite ever since it first opened its doors in 1986, whether you're looking for a quick, delicious lunch or a sit-down dinner with family and friends. Everything served is as fresh as it gets, with many ingredients imported directly from Japan.
Where will your next globetrotting dinner take you?