Posts with tag 'Columbus'

Bird watching may seem like a relatively tame activity, but it's actually beneficial for your mental and physical health. Walking is good for your cardiovascular system, while experts say bird watching reduces stress and anxiety while improving cognitive skills.

Another positive aspect of bird watching? It costs nothing to participate when you visit these fascinating sites around Columbus and Central Ohio.

Grange Insurance Audubon Center

505 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215

Named for the iconic ornithologist and painter, Grange Insurance Audubon Center is designed to show how conservation efforts enable nature to thrive in urban areas. This lush bird sanctuary stands on a former industrial site in downtown Columbus, right on the banks of the Scioto River. Kids can check out Adventure and Discovery Backpacks for curbside pickup that contain materials to help them get the most out of your visit. Check the website for information about current programs. The Scioto Audubon Park is open daily from 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Blendon Woods Metro Park

4265 E. Dublin Granville Rd., Columbus, OH 43081

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Where do turkeys go when it's not Thanksgiving? Chances are good you'll see some of them foraging for food at Blendon Woods Metro Park. The 653-acre grounds are also home to a variety of songbirds as well as Thoreau Lake, site of the Walden Waterfowl Refuge. Get a great view from the spotting scopes atop two elevated observation platforms. Stream-cut ravines and open fields provide a picturesque backdrop for a day of bird watching. Park hours are 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Glen Echo Park

510 Cliffside Dr., Columbus, OH 43202

Running from Fourth St. to Indianola Ave., the ravine setting of Glen Echo Park is so secluded that many Columbus residents are surprised to learn about it. The dog-friendly park offers a serene oasis that feels miles away from the traffic and activity above, making it a popular spot for local bird watchers. Don't miss the tunnel with colorful bird figures painted on the walls, which is a favorite attraction for park visitors. Glen Echo Park is open daily from 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Pickerington Ponds Metro Park

7680 Wright Rd., Canal Winchester, OH 43110

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The delightfully alliterative name of Pickerington Ponds Metro Park sounds like something you might find in the fields of England. In reality, this top bird-watching site is just minutes from Columbus. With more than 260 species of waterfowl, shorebirds and land birds spotted on 1,608-acre grounds, you're sure to have a productive day. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, beaver, fox, and other wildlife that also roam the park. Park hours are 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.

Highbanks Metro Park

9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center, OH 43035

As the name implies, Highbanks Metro Park is noted for its 100-foot-tall shale bluff that looks out over the Olentangy State Scenic River. The 1,200-acre park has several trails in various degrees of difficulty that provide numerous opportunities for bird watching, including eagles, which have been seen at Highbanks. Many of the trails are pet-friendly, so bring Fido along. Highbanks is open 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway, OH 43119

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The sprawling 7,000 acres of Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park encompass a variety of different terrains, including forests, prairies, and wetlands. More than 1,600 acres of the land have been restored, with bison inhabiting two enclosed pastures. White Barn Lagoon is a spot favored by many bird watchers. Sightings of nearly 100 species, including peregrine falcons and European starlings, have been reported. A number of the dozen trails are well-suited for family and dog outings. Battelle Darby Creek is open year-round from 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Hogback Ridge Park

2656 Hogback Rd., Sunbury, OH 43074

On its own, Hogback Ridge Park is a lovely, dog-friendly place to spend a day of bird watching. Winding trails make their way through wooded ravines that are home to wild turkeys, pileated woodpeckers, and many other species. For a real treat, take the Woodland Ridge Trail to the Equestrian Trail to a spot on Alum Creek dubbed "Osprey Overlook." Enjoy breathtaking sights of these stunning birds fishing, feeding their young and interacting with other osprey. Hogback Ridge is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., with extended hours until 9 p.m. between March and October.

Wilma H. Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park

352 W. Dodridge St., Columbus, OH 43202

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Bird watching is part of higher education at the Wilma H. Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park. The 52-acre facility sits just on the northern edge of the Ohio State University Campus. Faculty and students use the park for research and training on ecosystems, landscapes, and other environmental matters. The park and its greenway trails, paved paths, and observation pavilion are open to the public daily from dawn until dusk.

Hoover Reservoir Park

7701 Sunbury Rd., Westerville, OH 43081

Few things are more exciting for veteran and novice bird watchers alike than a bald eagle sighting. Such occurrences are relatively frequent at Hoover Reservoir Park, a peaceful spot located a mere 20 minutes from Columbus. The Hoover Meadows Bluebird Trail and Hoover Mudflats are well-known bird-watching spots. Mud Hen Marsh, one of several preserves in the area, offers great opportunities to view the marsh's namesake as well as the Northern Cardinal, Eastern Kingbird, and House Finch. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Free as a Bird

Man has long envied birds' ability to fly. If you could take flight, what's the first destination you'd head to?

January 29th is Puzzle Day, so head to your local shop and buy some to work out on your own or with family members. Simple puzzles with just a few pieces can help kids get started on this fun pastime while working on their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Before you know it, they'll be helping you on more complex 500- or 1,000-plus puzzles that take days to complete. And no matter what your interests, you'll probably be able to find a puzzle that matches them.

Check out the following 9 places around Ohio to puzzle it out:

Northeast Ohio

Sweets & Geeks

342 E. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256

The Sweets & Geeks name says it all – the store is a pop-culture haven that carries sweet candy as well as retro and modern "geeky" games, collectibles, and puzzles. Located near the heart of Historic Medicine Square, the shop has a good selection of puzzles, including ones with Coca-Cola, DC, Marvel, and Harry Potter themes. And while you're at the store, pick up some candy to enjoy while you're working your puzzle at home. From "weird and gross" choices to nostalgic candies you might have grown up with, you'll find something to please everyone who's working on the puzzle. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday.

Once Upon a Time

19285 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116

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This family-owned toy store has been open since 1984 and been in its current location since 1988, so it has many satisfied customers throughout the northeast Ohio area. It's a good spot to shop for puzzles, including ones from the popular Ravensburger brand. Their puzzles range from 15-piece ones that appeal to young children to 9,000-piece scenes that will keep the family busy for days. You'll also find uniquely fun 3D puzzles. Visit the shop from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

Toyrifix

885 W. Main St., Smithville OH 44677

Toyrifix carries a large selection of toys, games, and puzzles and prides itself on inspiring creative interactions between generations. You'll find plenty of puzzles, including one with a "Wine Time" theme that's perfect for these times of social distancing. Others follow a color theme, such as red, orange, or green, or depict colorful flowers or cute llamas. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday.

Columbus 

The Book Loft

631 S. Third St., Columbus OH 43206

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You'll find much more than books at The Book Loft at German Village – which is one of the country's largest independent bookstores – including a huge collection of jigsaw puzzles. It's located a few blocks south of the state capitol building in a location with a rich pre-Civil War history. Since it takes up an entire city block and encompasses 32 rooms, you're sure to find additional items like board games, posters, and more. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m., 7 days a week.

Gramercy Books  

2424 E. Main St., Bexley OH 43209  

Locally owned Gramercy Books carries a selection of carefully curated puzzles, books (of course), and more. It's located in the heart of Bexley, at the intersection of East Main Street and Cassady Avenue. After you select the puzzles you'd like to buy, take time to visit the store's café, Kittie's, to enjoy Stumptown coffee, snacks, and their famous cupcakes. And don't forget to pet Wally, the store's adorable dog. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 7 days a week.

Beanbag Books

25 W. Winter St., Delaware, OH 43015

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Originally started as Fundamentals Parent-Teacher Store, Beanbag Books has been one of Delaware's favorite shops for over 30 years. Shop for puzzles, games, books, and more educational and fun activities you can share with your child. Hours are 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Cincinnati

Downbound Books

4139 Apple St., Cincinnati, OH 45223

Downbound Books has an extensive selection of puzzles, including those that have 500 or more pieces and ones that are well suited for children or for the entire family. The shop is open for curbside pickup from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. You can also set a shopping appointment for groups of up to 5 people, and neighborhood deliveries are also offered.

King Arthur's Toys

3040 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209

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King Arthur's Toys was started over 40 years ago as a tiny hobby shop, growing over the years to become a popular – and larger – store that carries puzzles, games, and toys. Shop for gorgeous Pomegranate puzzles, which are beautifully artistic. Choose from a depiction of Van Gogh's Irises, Old-World map, Renoir's Luncheon of a Boating Party, and many more. They're so attractive that they're perfect for preserving and framing to hang on the wall. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.

The Bookshelf

7754 Camargo Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243  

You'll find a variety of puzzles and books at The Bookshelf, so a visit to the shop will have you well-stocked for at-home fun. If you become a frequent customer at The Bookshelf, you may want to purchase a frequent buyer card to receive a 10% discount, and if you're a teacher, you can score 15% off even without the card. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Piecing It Together

What kind of puzzles will you piece together as you spend time bonding with your family?

Founded in 1812 with the intention of making it the capital of Ohio, Columbus was always destined for greatness. Over the last two centuries, as Columbus has grown to become the most populous city in the state, it has developed a rich tradition of historical and cultural significance.

Heritage Treasures Day on Monday, January 11 is a perfect occasion to cherish the legacy of Columbus with a visit to these local historic sites.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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The glory of nature is on full display at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Visitors can explore 13 acres of gardens, seasonal displays, and art exhibits, including a collection of glass works by noted artist Dale Chihuly. Kids and adults alike are fascinated by the Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus, which features an apiary, rose pavilion, and berry house. The John F. Wolfe Palm House, located on the grounds, dates back to 1895. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for kids ages 3-12. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily.

Columbus Museum of Art

480 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215

Founded in 1878 under the name Columbus Gallery of Fine Arts, the Columbus Museum of Art has a long tradition of making great art accessible to the local community. Their extensive collection of American and European works focuses on contemporary art, folk art, glass, and photography. Families love "Think Outside the Brick," CMA's annual spring exhibit of LEGO® creations, including a giant model of Columbus. Entrance fee is $18 for adults and $9 for students and kids ages 4-17. Tickets must be purchased in advance. CMA is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Thursday.

German Village

588 S. 3rd St., Columbus, OH 43215

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A simple trip across a highway bridge transports you to old-world Europe in a matter of minutes. German Village is no commercially-created tourist attraction. This historic district was settled in the mid-1800s by German immigrants, who at one time made up one-third of the city's population. The lack of high-rise buildings and driveways are features from the days of quaint, close-knit neighborhoods where people walked everywhere and homes were often occupied by multiple families. Many of the streets still bear the original brick pavers. The sights and sounds of German Village are well worth multiple visits.

Ohio Statehouse

1 Capitol Sq., Columbus, OH 43215

A trip to the Ohio Statehouse serves a two-fold purpose. In addition to serving as the central location for the business of governing Ohio, the building is a stunning example of the Greek Revival style of architecture that was so predominant during the 18th century. Between stretches of bitter winter weather and struggles for funding, construction took 22 years. The Statehouse finally opened for legislative activity in 1857 and the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Visitors may take self-guided tours weekdays from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Central Ohio Fire Museum & Learning Center

260 N. Fourth St., Columbus, OH 43215

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Housed in an authentically restored 1908 engine house, the Central Ohio Fire Museum & Learning Center uses interactive programs to offer entertaining and educational lessons on fire safety. Displays of firefighting apparatus throughout the years trace the development of equipment as it has become safer and more effective. Boots the Fire Mouse is on hand to greet kids as they enjoy the play area. Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children. The Museum is open 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Hanford Village George Washington Carver Addition Historic District

800 Alum Creek Dr., Columbus, OH 43205

Hanford Village was incorporated in 1909, but its true prominence came in 1946 with the development of the George Washington Carver Addition. This suburb of Cape Cod houses was marketed to African-American veterans of World War II. As a result, these men and women and their families had the opportunity to settle in a thriving, supportive middle-class neighborhood. Some members of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen made their home in Hanford Village while stationed at nearby Lockbourne Army Air Force Base. 

Short North Arts District

886 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

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Short North Arts District, nestled between downtown Columbus and the OSU campus, is a hip neighborhood of colorful murals, trendy boutiques and hot restaurants. The district is also home to a slice of Columbus history in Victorian Village, the neighborhood's residential area. One of the more notable examples of Victorian architecture is Sells House, built by one of the owners of the Sells Circus, leading to the nickname "Circus House." Nearby is Cocoa Manor, another whimsically-named house that was home to the owners of Anthony Thomas Candy.

Shrum Mound

3141 McKinley Ave., Columbus, OH 43204

In pre-Columbian times, the Adena culture was a group of Native American societies living in Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky and Indiana that shared a number of ceremonial rituals. Shrum Mound in Campbell Park is one of the last cone-shaped Adena burial mounds remaining in Columbus. The mound itself is 20 feet high and 100 feet around, named for the family that donated the land, while the park is named for James E. Campbell, governor of Ohio from 1890 to 1892.

East Broad Street Historic District

1234 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43205

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See how "the other half" used to live with a trip to view the homes in the East Broad Street Historic District. Most prominent among these elegant houses is the Old Governor's Mansion, also known as the Lindenberg Mansion after the man who originally built the residence. Another landmark is the High Victorian-style Kappa Gamma National Headquarters, constructed in 1852.

Kelton House Museum & Garden

586 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215

While Kelton House Museum & Garden is a striking example of art and architecture from the 19th century, the site has a much greater historical importance. The home of Fernando Cortez and Sophia Stone Kelton served as a stop on the iconic Underground Railroad. Fugitive slaves found a haven in these waystations on their journey toward freedom. Grace Kelton, granddaughter of Fernando and Sophia, bequeathed the home to the city of Columbus for educational use. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for college students and $3 for K-12 students. The museum is closed in January, but make plans to visit when they reopen on Thursday, February 4.

Sign of the Times

What modern Columbus site do you think will become part of the city's history for future generations?

Now that you've fulfilled everyone else's holiday wishes, reward yourself with a present from Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts.

Greet the new year by exploring the wonderful shops and services around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Our agents at Cutler Real Estate have partnered with LoLo Gifts in order to offer these special treats.

December Gifts:

Canton: Pizza

Akron: Coffee

Cincinnati: Torta or Tacos

Columbus: Pizza Boat

Wooster: Coffee and Cretzel

Medina: $10 Certificate

Canton: Pizza

Camellone Italian American Cuisine

4630 Cleveland Ave. NW, Canton, OH 44709

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Dining with family or friends? Pizza is something that will make everyone happy. Share the tasty goodness of free pizza from Camellone Italian American Cuisine.

About Camellone Italian American Cuisine

At Camellone Italian American Cuisine, their motto is, "Eat well, laugh often, love much." They take care of the first part by making pizza from scratch, including the dough and sauce. Choose from New York-style, Detroit-style, sheet-style, and even low-carb versions. Check the website for listings of lunch and monthly specials.

Contact and Hours

330.754.6995

Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Friday - Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. 
Sunday 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Akron: Coffee

Muggswigz Coffee & Tea

3452 Manchester Rd., Akron, OH 44319

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Whether you need a quick pick-me-up before work or you want to relax with a good book, coffee fits the bill. Whatever your day holds, stop at Muggswigz Coffee & Tea for a cup of your favorite hot beverage.

About Muggswigz Coffee & Tea

Locally owned-and-operated Muggswigz Coffee & Tea has been recognized by USA Today as one of the 10 Best Coffeehouses in America. All coffee, including their signature espresso blend, is brewed in-house for superior quality and freshness. Place your order online ahead of time for quick and easy pickup. 

Contact and Hours

234.900.8101

Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Sunday - 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Cincinnati: Torta or Tacos

Mama Lo Hizo

1801 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Not ready to stop the holiday celebrations? Every day's a fiesta at Mama Lo Hizo. Spice up your day with a free torta or tacos. Don't forget the salsa and guacamole!

About Mama Lo Hizo

Tucked into the west wing of the popular Findlay Market is Mama Lo Hizo, a delightful food stand serving Mexican favorites such as burritos, tacos, and flan. The name translates to "Mama made it," and serves as a tribute to owner Mark Whitworth's beloved mother. Mama Lo Hizo's family specials make a perfect dinner for those don't-want-to-cook days.

Contact and Hours

513.257.7959

Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Columbus: Pizza Boat

GoreMade Pizza

936 N. 4th St., Columbus, OH 43201

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In the mood for pizza but there's no one around to share? Any pie at GoreMade Pizza can be ordered as a convenient half-sized pizza boat. 

About GoreMade Pizza

GoreMade Pizza is truly a labor of love. It started with a group of friends gathering for pizza Sunday, then expanded to a mobile wood-fired catering company. Now you can enjoy their farm-to-table, Neapolitan-style pizza on the patio of their brick-and-mortar location, even during cold weather months.

Contact and Hours

614.725.2115

Tuesday - Sunday Noon - 9 p.m.

Wooster: Coffee and Cretzel

Sure House Coffee Roasting Co.

151 S. Market St., Wooster, OH 44691

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Tantalize your taste buds and expand your vocabulary with free coffee and a cretzel from Sure House Coffee Roasting. The sweet and savory croissant-pretzel mashup is bound to become your new go-to snack.

About Sure House Coffee Roasting Co.

Sure House Coffee Roasting believes that a sense of community can extend around the globe. In addition to purchasing locally-produced products, they source their single-origin beans from fair-trade organic suppliers. Cretzels come in chocolate, cinnamon-sugar, and everything flavors, or choose gluten-free scones and chocolate chip cookies.

Contact and Hours

330.601.0645

Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Saturday 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Medina: $10 Certificate

Honey Bee Bakery

23 Public Square, Medina, OH 44256

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Medina is buzzing about the luscious cookies, brownies, and macarons at the Honey Bee Bakery. Indulge your sweet tooth with $10 worth of freshly-made baked goods.

About Honey Bee Bakery

Remember how comforting it was to eat Grandma's homemade cookies? The bakers at Honey Bee Bakery do, and they've mastered all the traditional recipes to give you that same nostalgic feeling. With more than 500 cookie cutters on hand, they can make their signature hand-decorated sugar cookies to coordinate with any event or occasion. If that's not enough, their espresso bar features dozens of flavors to create specialty drinks such as Almond Joy and Honey Lavender.

Contact and Hours

330.725.0912

Thursday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Welcome 2021!

2020 may finally be coming to a close, but thanks to Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts, the freebies will keep coming. Simply contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get in on the fun.

Did you know the Center of the World is in Ohio? Yes, there actually is an unincorporated community by that name near Youngstown, not far from the Pennsylvania state line.

But there are a number of truly compelling reasons why one of the state's slogans is, "Center of the Universe." If you're looking for a new home in 2021, here are a dozen fascinating features that make a great case for finding it in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati.

1. Cleveland Rocks!
    
   

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   America's musical legacy includes genres from country to gospel, but none is more deeply entrenched in our country's spirit than rock and roll. Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed coined that iconic term, so it's only fitting that the city was chosen to be the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Designed by legendary architect I.M. Pei, the Hall was dedicated in 1995 and includes 338 inductees. 
   
   
2. Marching to a Different Drum
   
   Most big cities have a number of first-class historical, scientific, and art museums, and Cleveland is no exception. But if you prefer exploring culture that's a little offbeat, you're in luck. Cleveland features several delightfully quirky collections that pay tribute to the weirder side of life. Start your journey by checking out the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and the Dittrick Museum of Medical History.
   
   
3. Thrills, Chills, and Spills
   
   

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   Lake Erie's shoreline is also the site of another type of rockin' and rollin'. Cedar Point in Sandusky proudly bears the title of "Roller Coaster Capital of the World." With its world-record 71 rides, 17 of which are roller coasters, the park has been an annual summer tradition for countless families. As the second-oldest amusement park in the United States, Cedar Point's humble beginnings date back to 1870, when it consisted of a public beach, beer garden, and dance floor.
   
   
4. Dotting the "I"
   
   More than 60,000 students can't be wrong: Ohio State University is one of the largest and most prestigious institutes of higher learning in the country. OSU's top academic programs are matched by collegiate sports teams that frequently sit atop the national rankings. The marching band's halftime performance of Script Ohio, with a sousaphone player dotting the "i," has become one of the most enduring and beloved traditions of Saturday afternoon football games at the "Horseshoe."
   
   
5. I Triple-Dog Dare Ya!
   
   

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   Warm, witty, and relatable, A Christmas Story has become a holiday classic for all ages. Reenact your favorite scenes at the actual house that served as the Parker family home, located in Cleveland's historic and elegant Tremont neighborhood. Right across the street is the companion museum, where you can view memorabilia such as Randy's snowsuit and purchase your very own "fra-gee-lay" leg lamp.  
   
   
6. Prost!
   
   With the rise of microbreweries, domestic beers began to rival imports in terms of variety and quality. Hipster towns such as Denver, Seattle, and Portland are often considered leaders in this movement, but did you know that Columbus ranks in the top five U.S. cities for craft beer production?  Untappd, an app focusing on all things beer-related, gives high marks to local favorites Hoof Hearted, Pretentious Barrel House, and Columbus Brewing Company.
   
   
7. All Roads Lead to Columbus
   
   

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   Do you enjoy having family and friends come to visit? It's a little-known and astonishing fact that 48 percent of the U.S. population lives within a 500-mile radius of Columbus. Major urban centers such as Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. are no more than a day's drive away. Toronto and Ottawa are also within that radius, adding some international flair.
   
   
8. Fast Food Nation
   
   As the birthplace of Wendy's and Buffalo Wild Wings and the headquarters of White Castle, Columbus has plenty of fast food cred. That's just one of the reasons why the city has become well-known as Test Market, USA. Thrillist, Business Insider, and other sources have long noted that Columbus is the go-to for Starbucks, Burger King, and other national brands testing new products. The city's diverse demographics are valued as an ideal cross-section of the national population.
   
   
9. Living on the Square in Cincinnati
   
   

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   Fans of classic sitcoms immediately recognize Fountain Square from its cameo in the opening credits of WKRP in Cincinnati. As downtown's shopping, entertainment, and cultural hub, Fountain Square is truly the heart and soul of this vibrant city.
   
   
10. Crossing the Line
    
    Cincinnati's fabulousness can't be contained by just one state. The metropolitan area spills across the Ohio River into Kentucky, incorporating such charming cities as Florence, Union, and Walton. Cross the historic, Brooklyn Bridge-esque John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge to travel from Cincinnati to Covington, which is the actual home of the Cincinnati International Airport.
     
11. It's All About the Chili
    
    

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    Chili is a dish that lends itself to a wide range of ingredients and preparations. But Cincinnati still managed to put itself on the culinary map with a unique version that keeps people coming back for more. More of a sauce than a stew or soup, Cincinnati chili is almost always served on top of hot dogs or spaghetti noodles. Unexpected seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate give the chili a Mediterranean flavor. Order it 3-way topped with cheddar cheese, add onions or beans to make it 4-way, or go for the works with 5-way. 
    
    
12. The Color Purple
    
    Get a good workout or embrace eco-friendly forms of transportation with a brisk walk across the Newport Southbank Bridge. The span, familiarly known as the Purple People Bridge due to its distinctive color, is a half-mile-long pedestrian bridge connecting Cincinnati and Newport, KY. 

The Three Cs

Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati: which one is the perfect fit for you?