Posts in category 'Explore Ohio'

Winter is a wonderful time for family fun around Ohio, with indoor and outdoor activities that offer something for everyone. Whether you're enjoying some skiing in Northeast Ohio, watching some pro sports with the family in Columbus, or doing some stargazing at a historic observatory in Cincinnati, there's something to look forward to in every corner of Ohio this winter. Our latest guide has all of the delightful details on nine great places for winter family fun around Ohio this year.

Northeast Ohio

Alpine Valley Resort

10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

Just west of Cleveland you'll find Alpine Valley Resort, the perfect place to enjoy some winter sports with the whole family. While it's not the largest ski resort, its smaller size makes it an ideal learning destination for any family members who are still learning how to ski or snowboard. The resort features seven trails from beginner to advanced, along with a terrain park. There's also a talented team of instructors ready to teach visitors of all ages the basics of skiing and snowboarding.

Akron's Lock 3

200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Lock 3 Live Akron, Ohio (@lock3live)

The temperature may be dropping, but that only means that the fun is heating up in downtown Akron at Lock 3. This is where you'll find Akron's most popular outdoor ice skating rink, along with loads of other fun outdoor attractions. There's a nine-hole miniature golf course, rentable igloos where you can enjoy a meal in a unique setting, and fire pits where you can warm up. You'll also find a busy schedule of events during the holidays, like breakfast with Santa and dinner with the Grinch.

MAPS Air Museum

2260 International Pkwy., North Canton, OH 44720

For a great mix of education and family fun, try a visit to the fascinating MAPS Air Museum, which allows you to get hands-on with some of history's most impressive aircraft. You can actually sit in the cockpit of many historic aircraft, and see what it's like to be a pilot. There are also tons of interesting educational exhibits that trace aviation history from the early 1900s to the present day.

Columbus Area

Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (@columbuszoo)

In most cities that are fortunate enough to have both an aquarium and zoo, you'd have to make two trips to enjoy both attractions. That's not the case at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, where you can enjoy it all in one fun-filled day. There are thousands of animals to see in countless habitats, and plenty of fun, family-friendly activities to enjoy along the way as you explore. You'll also find special experiences that allow you to feed the animals, see how the zoo works behind the scenes, and see fascinating shows like Dive into Adventure.

Columbus Blue Jackets Game at Nationwide Arena

200 W. Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH 43215

The Blue Jackets are Ohio's only NHL team, and they're located close to home in Columbus! A trip to Nationwide Arena to see a Blue Jackets game is a great way to enjoy a winter evening with the family, and see some of hockey's biggest stars up close. There are special family ticket packages available, which include tickets to the game, food, and drinks for one price. On some nights, those family ticket packages even include the opportunity to skate on the ice before the game with the Blue Jackets mascot or try your luck on the ice with some slap shots after the game.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

157 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH 43219

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by LEGOLAND Discovery Center Cbus (@ldccolumbus)

A massive indoor playground for both body and mind, LEGOLAND Discovery Center consistently ranks as one of the most popular attractions for families around Columbus. Kids will love building unique creations, racing LEGO cars, enjoying fun rides, and exploring a scaled replica of the city of Columbus made from more than 1.5 million LEGO blocks. Catch a popular LEGO movie at the 4D cinema, or take a behind-the-scenes factory tour to see how your favorite LEGO products are created.

Cincinnati Area

Cincinnati Observatory

3489 Observatory Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45208

Did you know that Cincinnati is home to one of the world's oldest public telescopes still in use today? The Cincinnati Observatory is the perfect place to plan a fun, educational family outing that will allow you to explore the stars. Visit at night to participate in the Astronomy Evenings program, which includes a guided tour and an opportunity to look at the stars through the observatory's telescopes. Or stop by during the day to see the facilities and take a historic walking tour of the lovely area around the observatory.

Bumper Cars on Ice at Fountain Square

520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fountain Square (@myfountainsquare)

Bumper cars on ice. If those four words won't get your kids excited this winter, what will? Every year, Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati is transformed into an icy playground, with bumper cars on ice and so much more. Buy a full pass to enjoy both bumper cars and ice skating, or simply choose one ticket for your favorite activity. The rink is open seven days a week and is also available for event rentals if you're planning an outing with a larger group. You can rent all of the equipment that you'll need at the rental stand, including dual-blade skates that make it easier for younger kids to learn the basics of ice skating.

Cincinnati Museum Center

1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203

Located in the beautifully restored Union Terminal, the Cincinnati Museum Center mixes education and entertainment in a way that few attractions can match. The Cincinnati Museum Center is home to the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, the Cincinnati Children's Museum, the Cincinnati History Library & Archives, and a state-of-the-art Omnimax Theater. The latest featured exhibit is The Science Behind Pixar, which provides a fascinating look at how some of the most popular movies in the world are made.

Your Own Winter Wonderland

How will you turn Ohio into your own winter wonderland this year?

Trains, both toy and real, conjure up pleasant memories of days gone by. Bring a welcome touch of nostalgia to this year's holidays with a visit to these Christmas train rides and displays around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

The Polar Express™ Train Ride

Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, 400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621

You and your family have loved the book and the movie. Now experience the magic in real life on The Polar Express™ Train Ride at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. Storytellers are on board to read the book as elves lead everyone in games, songs, and other activities. Refreshments include beverages and cookies made by Mrs. Claus. The train makes a stop at the North Pole to pick up Santa, who will visit with the kids during the return trip. Trains run Friday through Sunday on the first two weekends in December. Visit the website for times. Tickets range from $45-$80. 

North Pole Adventure™

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, 7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by CVSR (@cuyahogavalleyscenicrailroad)

Take in the winter beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley on your own North Pole Adventure™. Everyone can enjoy cookies and cocoa as kids write letters to Santa and take part in singing and dancing with elves. When the train stops at the North Pole to hand-deliver the letters, there's a good chance that a special guest will come on board. The train leaves the station at 7:30 p.m. daily through December 19. Tickets are $45-$92.

Christmas at the Junction

EnterTRAINment Junction, 7379 Squire Ct., West Chester, OH 45069

Remember the joy you felt watching your new model train circle the Christmas tree? Share that delight with your own kids at Christmas at the Junction. In addition to being the home of the world's largest indoor train display, EnterTRAINment Junction is a family fun center revolving around a railroad theme. Christmas at the Junction features a number of holiday train displays along with dazzling decorations, lively activities, and a visit with Santa. Festivities take place through January 2. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily except Sunday when doors open at noon. Admission is $15.95 per person when purchased in advance on the website.

Santa Train

Zanesville & Scenic Western Railroad, 5705 SR-204, Mt. Perry, OH 43760

During the holidays, the Mt. Perry Scenic Train transforms into the Santa Train. The 40-minute ride follows the historic Glass Rock Spur, named for the days when the line transported silica sand from Central Silica Company in nearby Glenford. Santa, assisted by the conductor, will be handing out gifts and treats along the way. The Santa Train departs each hour between 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the second and third weekends of December. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for ages 3-13. Receive a discount with a donation of food or a new, unwrapped toy.

Puritas Nursery Holiday Trains

19201 Puritas Ave., Cleveland, OH 44135

For the 18th year, Puritas Nursery is treating the West Park community to their delightful holiday train display. Three separate train sets, each in a different size, are fascinating to watch for "kids" of all ages. As if that wasn't reason enough to visit Puritas Nursery, you can shop their great selection of mistletoe, wreaths, and holiday greenery, as well as a wide variety of gift items and stocking stuffers. View the trains during store hours, 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. weekdays and 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekends through December 31.

Santa Christmas Train 

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, 33 W. Canal St., Nelsonville, OH 45764

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hocking Valley Scenic Railway (@hvscenicrailway)

Over three decades, generations of families have made the Santa Christmas Train a part of their holiday tradition. Historic Hocking Valley makes a perfect seasonal backdrop for the two-hour trip to East Logan and back. Santa will be along for the ride to visit with each child and collect their wish lists. At the end of the journey, they will also receive a special candy cane treat. Trains run each weekend through December 19. Visit the website for departure times. Tickets are $21 for adults and $16 for ages 3-12. 

Youngstown Model Railroad Association Open House

751 N. Four Mile Run Rd., Austintown, OH 44515

Members of the Youngstown Model Railroad Association love to share their enthusiasm for their favorite hobby with others. One of their more popular activities is their holiday open house, which they have been conducting for more than 65 years. Held at the group's headquarters, the open house features one layout upstairs and another downstairs, with surrounding "towns" that include carnivals and other life-like details. Hours are noon - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday on the first two weekends of December. A $5 donation is requested from all visitors over the age of 11.

North Pole Express

Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation Inc., 12505 County Rd. 99, Findlay, OH 45840 

Real trains? Toy trains? No need to choose at North Pole Express. Quarter-scale trains are ready to take you through a glittering wonderland of trees and lights. Meanwhile, toy train displays await in the festively decorated museum and train barn. You never know when Santa and Mrs. Claus may pop in for a visit! Activities take place 5:30  - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 5:30  - 8:30 p.m. Sunday through January 2. Admission is $4 for adults and $3 for kids 12 and under. 

Express Train

Crocker Park, 172 Crocker Park Blvd., Westlake, OH 44145

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Crocker Park (@crockerpark)

Are your little ones a bit young for an actual train ride? Crocker Park's Express Train provides a healthy dose of excitement for kids who might not be ready for a longer trip. The whole family will enjoy the sight of Crocker Park done up in all its holiday finery. Before or after, kids can visit with Santa and get their picture taken at Santa's Village. The Express Train runs daily through Christmas Eve. Visit the website for hours. Tickets are $4 per person. 

Get On the Right Track

In many parts of the world, trains are still a major form of transportation. What exotic location would you travel to by train?

Can you believe that the holiday season is already around the corner? Now is the perfect time to start planning for some holiday family fun, and there are plenty of great events all around Ohio to help every member of the family get in the holiday spirit. Catch a fantastic holiday concert in Northeast Ohio, shop for unique, handcrafted gifts in Columbus, or learn to create your own Christmas ornaments in Cincinnati. You'll find all that and more in our list of 9 Ohio events that will get you in the holiday spirit.

Lightwire: A Very Electric Christmas

182 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308

Searching for a holiday performance that both kids and adults will love? A Very Electric Christmas from Lightwire Theater is one of the most unique holiday performances that you'll find anywhere, and this year's show takes place on December 19. The story of A Very Electric Christmas follows a bird named Max, who stops at the North Pole with his family and winds up on a grand holiday adventure. After the show, VIP ticket holders can even meet the cast, ask questions, and learn more about how they create their spectacularly distinctive performances.

Cleveland Orchestra Holiday Concerts

11001 Euclid Ave., Cleveland, OH 44106

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Cleveland Orchestra (@cleveorch)

The Cleveland Orchestra is renowned for its enchanting holiday performances, and the Holiday Concerts series is sure to be a hit this year. The series is set for December 9 through 19 this year, with one performance each Thursday and Friday, followed by two performances on Saturday and Sunday. Performances take place at the gorgeous Severance Hall performance venue, with conductor Brett Mitchell leading the orchestra as they play all of your holiday favorites. Reserve your tickets online to ensure that you get a seat at one of Cleveland's most popular holiday shows.

Frosty Frolic 5k

1615 Stadium Park Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44718

Whether you're looking for a great workout before you enjoy your holiday meals or you simply want to support a good cause while seeing the sights, the Frosty Frolic 5k on December 11 offers something for everyone. The course for the 5k will take you through the scenic Stadium Park Holiday Light Display, and you can enjoy some special holiday treats when you cross the finish line. There will also be appearances from Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Frosty, so this is a fun event for the whole family.

Columbus Winterfair

717 E. 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43211

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Columbus Winterfair (@columbus_winterfair)

Shop for the perfect handcrafted gifts or find one-of-a-kind items to decorate your home at the Columbus Winterfair, which takes place from December 3 through 5 at the Ohio Expo Center. The event brings together artists and artisans from across Ohio who have been working all year to create unique crafts for the holidays. It's a great place to find items for the people on your list who are hard to shop for, and there will also be crafting demonstrations so that you can get tips from the experts on how to create your own holiday crafts.

The Nutcracker at Ohio Theatre

39 E. State St., Columbus, OH 43215

From December 10 to 26, the BalletMet performance group will be putting on the holiday classic, The Nutcracker, at the beautiful Ohio Theatre. Backed by orchestral performances of Tchaikovsky's classic score, the dancers of BalletMet bring the story of The Nutcracker to life on stage. Stop by for a matinee performance on the weekend, or enjoy an evening show any night of the week throughout the show's run this year.

A Magical Cirque Christmas

34 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by A Magical Cirque Christmas (@amagicalcirquechristmas)

Looking for a fresh, new spin on the classic holiday performance and something that will appeal to family members of all ages? A Magical Cirque Christmas is just the thing, and this year's show will be taking place on December 11 at the Palace Theatre. The show combines breathtaking acrobatics from Cirque performers with all of your favorite holiday music under the direction of Magical Hostess Lucy Darling. It's a live holiday performance unlike any other, and you can only find it in Columbus.

Holiday Pops

1241 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

The Holiday Pops at the Cincinnati Music Hall is one of the city's longest-running and most popular holiday performances, so this is one show that you won't want to miss. This year's performances will take place across two weekends, December 3–5 and 10–12. Performances are led by conductor John Morris Russell, with a talented cast of vocalists, musicians, and dancers. Hear some of your favorite classic holiday tunes, with both traditional and contemporary songs that your family is sure to love.

Glass Holiday Ornaments Workshop

4426 Brazee St., Cincinnati, OH 45209

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Brazee Studios (@brazeestudios)

Create memories that will last a lifetime as you make your own unique glass Christmas ornament at Brazee Studios in Cincinnati on December 11. During this workshop, you will learn how to create a layered glass ornament with expert instruction and all of the supplies that you'll need provided by the studio. The workshop is hosted by the Taft Museum of Art and is open to everyone age 15+ with special discounts available for museum members.

Anderson Township Tree Lighting Ceremony

7578 Beechmont Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45255

Get ready for a day filled with family fun at the Anderson Township Tree Lighting Ceremony, which takes place on December 4 at Anderson Towne Center. The fun starts in the afternoon with free holiday-themed food and drink, followed by a visit from Santa. There will also be some great live performances, with your favorite holiday music ringing out through the air. Top it all off with the tree lighting ceremony, when the beautifully decorated Christmas tree is lit up for the first time. After the ceremony, enjoy some special deals and events from businesses at Anderson Towne Center.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

How will you celebrate the season in Ohio this year?

Does the term "supper club" conjure up visions of exclusive restaurants where Frank Sinatra and his Rat Pack caroused over steaks and martinis? In reality, Midwest supper clubs offer fine dining and socializing in a more widely accessible setting.

Here's a brief look at the history of this enduring American classic, along with a list of the best supper clubs around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

History of Midwest Supper Clubs

Supper clubs are often associated with Los Angeles and New York City, but the Midwest is deep in their DNA. In fact, the first supper club was opened in Beverly Hills, CA by a native of Milwaukee.

In their heyday during the 1930s, supper clubs were meant to be an outing for an entire evening. Contemporary supper clubs are less formal but retain the emphasis on traditional meat-and-seafood menus and lively social interaction.

Music Box Supper Club

1148 Main Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113

Located in the iconic Flats of downtown Cleveland, Music Box Supper Club is truly a one-stop entertainment venue. Downstairs, guests dine on a menu of short ribs, fresh seafood, and other favorites prepared with some Caribbean flair. Upstairs is the concert hall that has hosted noted musical acts such as John Hiatt, Rufus Wainwright, the Smithereens, and Lucinda Williams. The supper club opens at 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 11 a.m. Sunday. From Monday through Wednesday, dining is available only for concerts and other events.

Asterisk Supper Club

14 N. State St., Westerville, OH 43081

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Asterisk Supper Club (@asterisksupperclub)

As indicated by its slogan, "Exclusive - but Inclusive," Asterisk Supper Club aims to make elegant dining accessible to all. In addition to lunch and dinner of comfort food favorites, Asterisk offers traditional high tea daily from noon - 4 p.m. Sip on your choice of tea while nibbling on scones, sandwiches, and other accompaniments. Westerville was once known as the "Dry Capital of the World," but today Asterisk serves an assortment of classic and craft cocktails. Hours are noon - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, noon - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 8 p.m. Sunday.

Oak Park Tavern

2919 State Route 430, Mansfield, OH 44903

While steak is a mainstay on the menu of most supper clubs, Oak Park Tavern is also known for its signature Lake Erie yellow perch. Sit at the bar and watch as your meal is prepared in the open kitchen. If you prefer a different view, relax outside on the all-season patio. Oak Park Tavern is open 3 - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 3 - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Ampersand Asian Supper Club

940 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ampersand Asian Supper Club (@ampersandasiansupperclub)

A Midwest tradition takes on global flavors at Ampersand Asian Supper Club. Thanks to its sophisticated dining room and creative menu, Ampersand earned a spot on Columbus Monthly's list of Best New Restaurants in 2020. Customers rave about the rich miso soup and the binge-worthy nori fries, but the ramen dishes are the real stars of the show. Favorites include the mushroom-forward Fungus Among Us and pork-studded Tonkatsu. Ampersand is open daily from 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Paragon Supper Club

797 Miamisburg-Centerville Rd., Dayton, OH 45459

Fans of nostalgia will love Paragon Supper Club, where the ambiance takes you back to the 1970s. Opened in 1978, the Paragon retains the brick wall, wood accents, and chandelier lighting of that era. Ribeye and filet mignon are highlights of the classic upscale menu, but check out the daily chef's features such as sauerbraten and 32-ounce Wagyu tomahawk. Hours are 5 - 10 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 5 - 11 p.m. Friday, 4:45 - 11 p.m. Saturday, and 5 - 9 p.m. Sunday.

The Avenue Steak Tavern

94 N. High St., Dublin, OH 43017

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Avenue Steak Tavern (@theavenuesteaktavern)

Can't decide between an upscale steakhouse or casual pub? Get the best of both at The Avenue Steak Tavern. The menu includes steaks, side dishes, and other classic supper club fare along with pub favorites such as roast beef on weck and crispy hot chicken biscuit. Save room for the banana bread pudding, a customer favorite topped with hazelnut chocolate and caramel. The Avenue is open 4 - 9 p.m. daily, with extended hours until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

Treasure Island Supper Club

4250 Chief Woods Lane, Moraine, OH 45439

Founded in 1961, Treasure Island Supper Club started out as a modest diner frequented by local General Motors employees. It has since grown to become a popular gathering place known for its spectacular U-shaped handmade wooden bar. The extensive collections of area memorabilia add to the community feel. Many customers recommend the house salad dressing, described as, "poppy seed dressing without the seeds." Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. 

Prime Cincinnati

580 Walnut St., Ste. 100, Cincinnati, OH 45202

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Prime Cincinnati (@primecincy)

Prime Cincinnati's mission statement couldn't be more simple or more profound: "A passion to serve." That passion comes through in everyone, from the chef to the wait staff. Looking for a place to unwind after work? Stop by for $7 MidWeek Martinis and some shareables from the happy hour menu. Enjoy live music on Wednesday and Friday or catch the big game on one of the 4K high-definition TVs. Dinner is served seven days a week and lunch is available weekdays from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The Pine Club

1926 Brown St., Dayton, OH 45409 

True to its old-school roots, The Pine Club doesn't accept credit cards or reservations. Even George and Barbara Bush were once told it would be a 45-minute wait for a table. But the restaurant's four-star food and luxurious ambiance have gained national acclaim from the New York Times, Gourmet Magazine, and Cooking Channel, where The Pine Club was featured on "The Best Thing I Ever Ate." Hours are 4:30 - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 4 - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Dinner: Where the Magic Happens

If money (and calories) were no object, what would be the must-have items for your dream dinner?

November is Aviation History Month. It's a great chance to reflect on the history of air travel and all those who have made aviation what it is today. From Wilbur and Orville Wright to Amelia Earhart, so many notable people have shaped the industry. You can celebrate by reading more about these aviation pioneers and also by visiting aviation museums. There just so happen to be some great ones across the state of Ohio.

Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum

10825 East Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44106

Operated by the Western Reserve Historical Society, the Crawford Auto-Aviation Museum showcases both automobiles and aircraft. One of the most notable displays is the 1910 Curtiss Model E "Bumble Bee," a small prop plane. The museum also houses a 1930 Howard DGA-3 named "Pete," which won five out of seven races in the National Air Races in Chicago.

This museum is open Thursday - Sunday, and admission is $15 for adults. Discounts are available for students and veterans, and active military members receive free admission. 

MAPS Air Museum

2260 International Parkway, North Canton, OH 44720

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by MAPS Air Museum (@mapsairmuseum)

The MAPS Air Museum is a great place to learn about the history of military aviation. Inside, you'll get to see an assortment of military aircraft from various periods in history. See a Martin Glider from the early 1900s, a BT-13A from World War II, and so much more. There are also displays honoring fallen soldiers and Medal of Honor recipients.

This museum is open Tuesday - Saturday. Admission is $10 for adults and free for active service members and World War II veterans. A guided tour takes about 2 hours, but most people spend 3 - 4 hours inside the museum.

International Women's Air & Space Museum

1501 N. Marginal Rd. Ste. 165, Cleveland, OH 44114

Countless women have played essential roles in advancing the aviation industry, and this museum in Northeast Ohio honors them. Admission is free, and guided tours are available for a small donation. The museum is located inside Burke Lakefront Airport, and the exhibits are accessible daily from 8 am - 8 pm.

Some of the displays at the International Women's Air & Space Museum include the jacket of former NASA astronaut Pam Melroy and a model of Beguine, a plane flown by Jackie Cochran. There are also displays honoring Amelia Earhart, Ruth Nichols, and Bessie Quimby.

Motts Military Museum

5075 S. Hamilton Rd, Groveport, OH 43125

Motts Military Museum is a great place to stop if you're near Columbus. Their mission is to preserve the past of the American military through documentation and collection of artifacts. While not strictly an aviation museum, they do have a lot of aircraft-related displays. There's an exhibit on the Tuskegee Airmen, a group of African American pilots from the 1940s. There's also an entire display on the history of NASA.

This museum is open Tuesday - Sunday. Admission is $10 per adult and $5 for children ages 5 and up.

Champaign Aviation Museum

1652 N. Main St., Urbana, OH 43078

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Champaign Aviation Museum (@champaignaviationmuseum)

A group of volunteers opened the Champaign Aviation Museum in 2005. Today, it houses eight vintage aircraft, most of which have been restored by the members. They have a B-25 Mitchell, known as "Champaign Gal," and a C-1A (TF-1) affectionately called "Mudflap Girl" — among others. 

This museum is housed on the property of Grimes Field. They're open Tuesday - Saturday, and admission is free, although donations are appreciated. You can also take a virtual tour of the museum on their website.

Historical Aircraft Squadron

3430 Old Columbus Rd. NW, Carroll, OH 43112

The Historical Aircraft Squadron is a museum within Hanger B at the Fairfield County Airport. It's open Wednesdays and Sundays from 9 am - 4 pm and is staffed by volunteer members. Admission and tours are free.

Inside this museum, you'll see vintage pilot's uniforms, older aircraft, and historic military equipment. There's also an extensive collection of books and DVDs that you can explore in the reading room.

Cincinnati Aviation Heritage Society Museum

262 Wilmer Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226

Located in Lunken Field of the Cincinnati Municipal Airport, this museum houses a collection of scale model airplanes, including a 1939 Stinson SR-10C and a replica of the 1903 Wright Flyer. They also have a Smith Termite and a Burt Rutan. In addition to aircraft, they have a wide array of books and magazines on aviation-related topics. 

The Cincinnati Aviation Heritage Society Museum is a small and friendly one and a great place to dip your toes into aviation for Aviation Month. 

National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

1100 Spaatz St., Dayton, OH 45431

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by National Museum USAF (@afmuseum)

There's no doubt that the U.S. Air Force has played a vital role in developing the aviation industry over the years. That's why visiting the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is a great way to celebrate Aviation History Month. The museum offers free admission and parking, and it's open seven days a week from 9 am - 5 pm.

Inside the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, you'll see more than 350 different aerospace vehicles. You'll also get to see missiles and other weapons used by the Air Force over the years. The World War II gallery houses aircraft that were used both in the Pacific and in Europe. You'll see a Douglas A-24, a Consolidated B24D Liberator, and so many more. Also on display is a demilitarized Little Boy, an atomic weapon originally constructed in 1945.

Tri-State Warbird Museum

4021 Borman Dr., Batavia, OH 45103

The Tri-State Warbird Museum is a 22,000 square foot facility that includes an aircraft restoration area, various exhibits of aviation-related artifacts, and two large hangars where aircraft are displayed. There's also an extensive library of magazines, books, and other references related to flight.

This museum is truly a must-see if you're in the Cincinnati area. They've been recognized as one of the most admired aviation museums. You can visit Wednesday or Saturday, and admission ranges from $7 - $12 per person.

Celebrate Flight

Air travel has truly transformed the world, and that's well worth celebrating. Which one of these aviation museums do you plan on gliding into for Aviation History Month?