Posts with tag 'Family-Friendly Activities'

Road races aren't just for serious, lifelong athletes. Most are welcoming to people at all levels of fitness. Training for a road race is a great way to improve your stamina and maybe even lose a few pounds this summer! Luckily, there are plenty of great road races coming up in Northeast Ohio. Here are a few to consider signing up for.

Hofbrauhaus Cleveland Half Marathon, 5K, and 10K

1550 Chester Ave., Cleveland, OH 44115

Scheduled for Sunday, August 8th, this race begins at Hofbrauhaus Cleveland. The half marathon begins at 7 am, and the 5K and 10K races begin at 8 am. You can pre-register online, and packet pickup takes place beginning at 6 am on race day.

The Hofbrauhaus half marathon course winds through the city of Cleveland, even passing through Rockefeller Park. The 5K and 10K racecourses take runners through the downtown area near Cleveland State University. All runners over the age of 21 get a free beer with registration, and runners of all ages get a free bratwurst and technical t-shirt.

Run for Recovery

3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109

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On August 14th, the Run for Recovery begins at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. There's also a One Mile Wellness Walk and a shorter kids' fun run. Proceeds from the race go to support charities that help those struggling with alcoholism, drug abuse, and other addictions.

This year, the organizers' goal is to raise $65,000 for charity. To help them reach this goal, you can register online for the race of your choice. Register for the 5K, and you'll also get a free pass to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Registrants for all races get a free t-shirt. You can raise even more money for the cause by fundraising with a team, which you can learn more about on the race website.

Love a Nurse RuN

6500 Cleveland Memorial Parkway, Cleveland, OH 44102

Nurses put so much love and care into their profession, especially over this past year. Scheduled for September 26th in Edgewater Park, this race is a good opportunity to show nurses how much you appreciate them. There's a 5K race and a 1-mile run/walk. You can pre-register online or register on race day for an extra $5.

After the race, there will be a ceremony to recognize all nurses who are present. Post-race refreshments will also be provided.

Oktoberfest Meiler Vier 4-Mile Run

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

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Scheduled for September 10th, this race begins at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus. It's a local tradition to honor Oktoberfest, and all participants get free sausage and beer. You can pre-register for the race online and pick your packet up at the local Fleet Feet the Wednesday or Thursday prior to the race. 

All participants get a free t-shirt, and finishers get a medal. The race doesn't start until 6:15 pm, which is good news if you're not a morning person. 

Big Bad Wolfe Run

105 Park Dr., Columbus, OH 43209

If you're looking for a unique race in Columbus, then the Big Bad Wolfe Run is a great choice. There's a fun backstory associated with the race name, which you can read on the signup page. You'll feel like Little Red Riding Hood as you run down the trail.

This race is scheduled for September 26th. There are 5K, 10-mile, and 20-mile options, and all courses begin in Wolfe Park and follow the Alum Creek Trail, which is asphalt paved. Every finisher gets a medal and a swag bag.

Dog Jog

303 W. Broad St. Columbus, OH 43215

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Scheduled for October 3rd, the 31st annual Dog Jog is a fundraiser for the CHA Animal Shelter. All proceeds go toward caring for and finding homes for animals at the shelter.

The 5K race and 1-mile fun run begin in Genoa Park at 9 am. After the race, multiple vendor booths, games, and activities for participants and fans are available. There's also a virtual race option for anyone who doesn't feel comfortable participating in person. 

Egghead 5K

7669 Wooster Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45227

If you'll be in Cincinnati in August and want to run a race while you're there, the Egghead 5K is definitely a top choice. It's scheduled for August 14th, 2021. At 4 pm, willing participants will shave their heads to show support for cancer patients and raise money for the Eggstrong Foundation. Then, at 5 pm, these eggheads will run the 5K race.

50 West Cycling Company is hosting this event. The course is an out and back route on the Little Miami Bike Trail. You can pre-register online, and race day registration is also available for an added fee. If you refer three friends to register, you can save $15 on your own registration. You do not have to shave your head to run the race!

Sophie's Angel Run

5924 Bridgetown Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45248

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The 15th Annual Sophie's Angel Run is scheduled for September 26, 2021. This race starts at St. Jude Parish in Bridgetown, and the 5K course weaves through the local neighborhood. The 1 pm start time is great for late risers. 

Sophie's Angel Run is a charity event to raise funds to support research into pediatric brain tumor diagnosis and treatment. If you pre-register online, you'll receive a free t-shirt. There's also a family plan registration option, which includes two adults and their children, plus shirts and goodie bags for all for $65. 

Ice Cream 5K, 10K

705 E. Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Why not balance out your love for ice cream with some running? The Ice Cream 5K and 10K is scheduled for October 16th, 2021. This race begins at Sawyer Point Park. The 5K and 10K races begin at 8:45 am, and the kids' 1-mile fun run begins at 8 am. There's also a baby/toddler crawl at 10 am or whenever the 10K wraps up.

After the race, there will be a family-friendly party with face painting, dancing, and games. Of course, all participants get a free ice cream cone and t-shirt. Proceeds from the race and associated party go to benefit Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. You can register online. Details for packet pickup will be posted closer to race day.

These Shoes Were Made for Running

Which one of these Northeast Ohio road races do you plan on training for in 2021? 

Musician Carlos Santana once said no sunsets are ever the same. Thanks to nature's infinite variety, sunset-watching is an endlessly fascinating activity that never grows old. The varied landscapes around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati provide these wonderful spots to see the sun go down.

Lorain Lighthouse

1 W. Breakwater, Lorain, OH 44052

Once you see Lorain Lighthouse at sunset, with a backdrop of cotton candy clouds, you'll understand why it's known as the "Jewel of the Port." Its iconic outline has come to symbolize the city, and reproductions have been featured on everything from paintings and postcards to sweatshirts and needlework projects. Celebrate a special occasion with a romantic sunset wine dinner, held each Tuesday from June 15 through September 14. Tours are available for $20 per person, including the boat ride to and from the lighthouse.

Edgewater Park

4101 Fulton Pkwy., Cleveland, OH 44144

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With 147 acres of land, including 9,000 feet of shoreline, you'll have little trouble finding your own sunset-viewing spot at Edgewater Park. As the westernmost location of the properties that make up the Lakefront Reservation, Edgewater Park affords majestic sightlines of the sunset as well as stunning views of Cleveland. Pack a picnic lunch and make a day of it by hiking or biking the all-purpose trails or taking Fido for a splash in the dog-friendly beach. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Ledges Overlook

405 Truxell Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264

Lake Erie may be Mother Nature's main event in Northeast Ohio, but she left a spectacular mark in several inland spots as well. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a popular destination because of features such as Ledges Overlook, a rock outcropping with unimpaired views of the western vista. Plan some extra time to hike the 2.2-mile loop trail to see the unusual rock formations. Many people love to visit Ledges Overlook during fall when the changing colors of the leaves and the pastel colors of the sunset make you feel as though you're in a painting. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is open 24 hours, but Ledges Overlook closes from dusk until dawn. Admission is free.

Smale Riverfront Park

166 W. Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

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A spot that was once nothing but parking lots between the two stadiums is now one of the most beloved locations in Cincinnati. Even though Smale Riverfront Park has been open only since 2012, many residents can't remember what Cincinnati was like without it. Sunset is considered the best time to visit the park when the fading rays cast a glow across the already impressive Roebling Suspension Bridge. Filled with walking and biking paths, a splash pad and playground, fountains, gardens, pergolas, and a carousel, Smale Riverfront Park has plenty of family-friendly attractions to keep you entertained as you wait for the sun to go down.

Primavista

810 Matson Place, Cincinnati, OH 45204

How many restaurants have a section on their website dedicated to their view? Even the name, Primavista, translates to, "first sight." Readers of Cincinnati Magazine voted Primavista as the city's best Italian restaurant, and the views are cited as frequently as the food. Dine on traditional Italian favorites such as veal Marsala and spaghetti and meatballs as you take in breathtaking views of the city, enhanced by the day's last rays of sunlight. Planning a romantic sunset dinner at a local park? Everything on the menu is available for carryout. Hours are 5 - 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 5 - 10 p.m. Friday, 4:30 - 10 p.m. Saturday, and 4:30 - 8 p.m. Sunday. Reservations are recommended.

Ault Park

5090 Observatory Circle, Cincinnati, OH 45208

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A bronze plaque on the terrace of Ault Park pays tribute to the legacy of former park commissioner Levi Addison Ault, who donated the property in 1911. Adopt-A-Plot Garden, with 39 sections developed and tended by volunteers, has earned national awards and acclaim for its innovative concept. One of the more popular spots in the dog-friendly park is Heekin Overlook, where sweeping views of the Little Miami River make it a prime spot for sunset-watching. Ault Park is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Park of Roses

3923 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

Park of Roses is like a scene out of a dream any time of day, but it reaches a greater level of grandeur at sunset. Founded in 1953, this 13-acre space within Whetstone Park is covered with 11,000 roses of more than 350 different types. The park features several individual gardens, including the Heritage Garden and the Herb Garden, that showcase specific variations. Visit the park in summertime to see the flowers in full bloom. Hours are dawn to dusk daily, and there is no charge to enter the park.

Scioto Mile

233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215

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Enjoy an urban sunset in the heart of the city at Scioto Mile. More than 175 acres of scenery are surrounded by the downtown skyline, resulting in a beautiful juxtaposition as the sun goes down. Scioto Mile is comprised of nine individual parks, each with its own attractions, so every visit is different. Admire the public artworks, do some bird watching, tackle a climbing wall, or just relax on one of the swinging benches. All parks along the Scioto Mile are open 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily and there is no admission fee.

Antrim Park

5800 Olentangy River Rd., Columbus, OH 43085

A scenic quarried lake is the centerpiece of Antrim Park, named for the owner of the company that once quarried the 120 acres of property. Once a year, the waters are stocked with rainbow trout for fishing along the banks or off the dock. Bring your dog along for a brisk walk or run along the beautiful trails. Afterward, let your pet cool off with a swim in the lake. Antrim Park is open seven days a week from 7 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me

Experts say sunsets have a positive effect on mental and emotional well-being. What's your favorite reason to watch the sun go down?

Spring is in the air, which means Ohio's wildflower season has just begun. In parks and preserves all over the Buckeye State, the first flowers of the year have already started to bloom.

But the great thing about wildflowers in Ohio is that they don't all appear at once. We get to experience a rainbow of color that changes with the seasons. These wildflower hikes offer opportunities to see a dazzling array of native wildflowers throughout the spring and well into summer.

California Woods Nature Preserve

5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230

Southern Ohio parks tend to see the state's earliest spring wildflower blooms, and California Woods Nature Preserve is a prime spot to see early spring flowers in Cincinnati. This Hamilton County preserve encompasses 113 acres of forests, with steep ravines and shady woods that harbor diverse spring bloomers. Visit in May to see Virginia spiderwort and fire-pink in bloom, along with the yellow blossoms of cinquefoil and trout lilies. California Woods is home to an extensive trail system, and the 1-mile Junction Loop is a great place to start. Stop back in summer to explore the preserve's butterfly and hummingbird garden!

Three Creeks Metropark

3860 Bixby Rd., Groveport, OH 43125

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One of the several picturesque Metroparks in the Columbus area, Three Creeks Metropark has a reputation as one of the most beautiful destinations for wildflower hikes in Central Ohio. This 1,053-acre park takes its name from the spot where Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks meet, and the area around the confluence of these three streams offers a diverse bounty of spring blooms. The 1-mile Confluence Trail meanders along the creek banks, and you may spy flowers including yellow and white trout lily, Dutchman's breeches and spring beauty, among others. The nearby Bluebell Trail abounds in its namesake flowers, and the small maroon blossoms of sessile trillium are also a common sight. 

Wilson Nature Preserve

4082 OH-132, Batavia, OH 45103 

Less than 30 minutes from Cincinnati in the small town of Batavia, OH, the James L. and Frances Wilson Nature Preserve spans 145 beautiful acres along the banks of the Little Miami River, including a 25-acre river island. Three miles of trails traverse this picturesque woodland, the ground often carpeted in spring wildflowers. Eagle-eyed hikers can spot several different species of trilliums here. Picnic areas and additional trails, including the aptly named half-mile Wildflower Trail, are available in the neighboring Sycamore Park.

Wildcat Hollow Trail (Wayne National Forest)

Co Rd 58, Glouster, OH 45732

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Few places in Ohio offer a more immersive nature experience than Wayne National Forest, which spans a quarter of a million acres among the Appalachian foothills in the southeastern part of the state. There are endless wild experiences to be had here, but if spying spring and summer wildflowers is your goal, head to the Wildcat Hollow Trail. This 17.5-mile loop meanders through diverse woodland and meadow habitats, including carpets of the endangered running buffalo clover, and dense thickets of native rhododendrons in full bloom. The trail is about a 90-minute drive from Columbus, and worth every second of the journey.

North Kingsville Sand Barrens

Conneaut, OH 44030

A stone's throw from the shores of Lake Erie, the North Kingsville Sand Barrens represents a unique landscape of fossilized dunes that supports many plants and animals seen almost nowhere else in Ohio, including the endangered blue bead lily. The spectacular blooms of native blue lupine, which appear in late May and early June, are especially enchanting. This 174-acre property is managed by the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and offers some of the most spectacular wildflower blooms in Northeast Ohio. 

Holden Arboretum

9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094

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The Holden Arboretum is a 3,600-acre wonderland for anyone interested in unique plants and flowers. Home to diverse gardens, collections, and ecologically sensitive habitats, it's one of the largest arboreta in the state and home to a vast network of walking paths. Keep an eye out for native beauties like marsh marigolds, trilliums, and Virginia bluebells. Just 30 minutes from Cleveland, the arboretum is one of the best places to see native wildflowers in Northeast Ohio. They even have an annual plant sale in early May, where you can purchase native wildflowers reared at the arboretum to transplant into your own garden. 

Edge of Appalachia Preserve

4274 Waggoner Riffle Rd., West Union, OH 45693

A 16,000-acre preserve dedicated to restoring Southern Ohio's Appalachian landscape, the Edge of Appalachia Preserve's dense forests and vibrant meadows are home to many plant species that are found almost nowhere else in the state. It's a truly unique and beautiful place to go looking for native wildflowers. Be sure to explore the Lynx Prairie Trail, which offers a glimpse at rare species like Indian paintbrush, western sunflower, and the endangered scaly blazing star.

Bigelow Cemetery State Nature Preserve

600 Rosedale Rd, Irwin, OH 43029

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Although it spans just half an acre, Bigelow Cemetery Nature Preserve is a unique and special place. This small park 30 minutes outside Columbus has never been grazed or plowed, a fact that becomes all the more striking when one looks out at the cultivated farmlands that surround it. This small plot of land was first used as a cemetery in pioneer times, and the grave markers dating back to the 1800s still stand among the tall prairie grasses and blooming wildflowers, giving it an almost dreamlike appearance. The blossoms are frequented by hummingbirds and butterflies and reach their peak in July and August.

Brecksville Reservation

9000 Chippewa Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141

The largest of Cleveland's 18 Metroparks, the Brecksville Reservation is home to the striking Chippewa Creek Gorge, as well as a section of the 1,400-mile Buckeye Trail, which forms a circular loop through the entire state of Ohio. The Brecksville Reservation is a great place for a spring wildflower hike, with prolific blooms of trout lily, great white trillium, marsh marigold, spring beauty, Jack-in-the-pulpit, and many other species. The 0.75-mile Wildflower Loop Trail packs a lot of great flora into a short, sweet hike. 

Walk on the Wild Side

Ohio has hundreds of amazing parks and trails where you can see blooming wildflowers throughout the spring and summer months. If we forgot to mention your favorite place, be sure to let us know in the comments below!

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?

You've probably used the expression "bird's-eye view" dozens of times, thinking it's just a metaphor. But thanks to the thrills of ziplining, you can gain a new appreciation of the landscape around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati as you "fly" high above it. Get your "bird's-eye view" of Ohio's colorful fall scenery with one of these popular ziplining tours. 

Hocking Hills Canopy Tours

Distance From: Cleveland (182 miles) | Columbus (43 miles) | Cincinnati (136 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Highly acclaimed by sources such as USA Today, Discovery Channel, and the New York Times, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours proudly bills itself as Ohio's first "world-class" zipline adventure. The attraction gets high marks for innovation and a commitment to safety while maintaining respect for the environment. In addition to the popular Original Tour, HHCT offers several specialty options, including night ziplining and kid-friendly adventures. Get a different perspective with one of the guided Segway® off-road nature tours. HHCT is open seven days a week.

Tree Frog Canopy Tours

Distance From: Cleveland (90 miles) | Columbus (68 miles) | Cincinnati (175 miles)

Located in Ohio's spectacular Mohican region, Tree Frog Canopy Tours recently made the top ten in USA Today's list of Best Aerial Adventure Parks. Tree Frog's 2.5-hour course is the only one in the state using a dual-cable system to provide a faster and smoother ride. Travel across more than 4,000 feet of cable as you ride seven ziplines and cross two skybridges. Each tour is led by two guides who create a safe environment and share fascinating information about the different sights. Tours are scheduled daily, with Mondays and Thursdays designated as "Kids' Days." 

Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park

Distance From: Cleveland (19 miles) | Columbus (127 miles) | Cincinnati (233 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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As the name implies, Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park recreates the storybook exploits of Tarzan and his faithful companion, Cheetah. Frolic through the forest at a height of 50 feet with their popular Treetop Adventure, which begins with a climb up a rope ladder and progresses through 40 exciting obstacles, including bridges, ziplines, and breathtaking Tarzan swings. Indulge your competitive spirit by combining your treetop tour with a ground-level session of axe throwing. Three-hour Treetop Adventure sessions are available Friday through Sunday, while hour-long axe-throwing sessions may be booked for Saturday and Sunday.

Wilds Zipline Safari

Distance From: Cleveland (141 miles) | Columbus (75 miles) | Cincinnati (178 miles)

If a ziplining safari isn't on your bucket list, it should be. The Wilds is an impressive and innovative conservation center dedicated to finding solutions for problems impacting wildlife and the environment. Part of their mission is educating the public with activities such as Wild Zipline Safari. A series of 10 ziplines provide incredible opportunities to view giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and other endangered species rarely seen in the United States. If you don't have the time for the full 2-1/2 hour tour, check out the Overlook version. This modified tour lasts 1-1/2 hours and doesn't actually enter the pastures, but still offers unparalleled views.

ZipZone Outdoor Adventures

Distance From: Cleveland (134 miles) | Columbus (16 miles) | Cincinnati (120 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Urban ziplining? Yes, it's true. ZipZone Outdoor Adventures is an oasis of nature in the heart of Columbus. Situated on the grounds of Camp Mary Orton, ZipZone offers a two-hour tour over 20 acres of forest. The Adventure Park, opened in 2017, adds a new dimension to your ziplining experience. Choose from five different climbing courses, ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert, and make your way through the challenging elements. Guides provide 30-40 minutes of instruction beforehand, and all participants are locked to a lifeline cable with double-connected safety clips. Wee ones can join in the fun at the Kids Park, a modified version of the Adventure Park. Courses are only a few feet off the ground to make it easy for kids between aged 4 to 7. Canopy tours are offered Friday through Sunday, while Adventure Park and Kids Park are open Saturday and Sunday.

Ultimate Zipline Adventures

Distance From: Cleveland (191 miles) | Columbus (52 miles) | Cincinnati (152 miles)

As a kid, did you ever dream of joining the circus to perform on the high wire? The full course at Ultimate Zipline Adventures is even more satisfying than your childhood fantasy. After a training session, you'll head up into the trees to tackle 16 ziplines and 23 high rope activities, completing many of the obstacles while suspended in the air. Zipline purists may prefer the Apex course, which skips the first half of the full course. You'll still get a lot of action packed into seven zip lines, including a set of dual racing lines. Kids under the age of 10 have their own fully supervised course, which features three ziplines and 12 rope activities. Ultimate Zipline Adventures is open Wednesday through Sunday for all courses.

Valley Zipline Tours

Distance From: Cleveland (176 miles) | Columbus (37 miles) | Cincinnati (137 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Regular ziplining not exciting enough for you? Valley Zipline Tours has the answer. Their course starts with five fairly conventional lines, ranging from 15 to 40 feet above ground. Then you move to the 1,000-foot-long "monster" line, which hovers 120 feet in the air. Speeds can reach up to 40 MPH. The next leg pits you head-to-head against another member of your group on side-by-side 700-foot racing lines. Finish your tour gliding at upwards of 50 MPH on the signature 1,400-foot line spanning the entire course. Newbies can opt for the Tree Top Tour, consisting of the first six lines of the main tour. Having too much fun to stop? Upgrade to the main tour on the spot. Mini Zip tours are available for kids aged 5-7. 

Sports Plus Zipline Park

Distance From: Cleveland (237 miles) | Columbus (95 miles) | Cincinnati (17 miles)

Feel the adrenaline rush of ziplining during any season of the year at Sports Plus Zipline Park. The family-friendly indoor facility houses three state-of-the-art ziplines that cover more than 200 feet. With ten 30-foot rock-climbing walls and 10,000 square feet of trampolines as well, you may never come back down to earth! Sports Plus is open Friday through Sunday with three available time slots each day.

Up, Up and Away

From Superman to Captain Marvel, flying is the iconic superpower. If you could fly, where's the first place you would go?