Posts with tag 'Local Attractions'

When the snow flies in Ohio, the fun has just begun! With opportunities for skiing, ice skating, winter hiking, and countless other activities, it's the perfect season to enjoy the outdoors in Ohio. Be sure to check out these nine amazing outdoor destinations in Ohio this winter. 

Mill Stream Run Reservation

16200 Valley Pkwy., Strongsville, OH 44136

Tobogganing at the Chalet at Mill Stream Run Reservation is a winter tradition in Northeast Ohio. With its two 700-foot refrigerated ice chutes, Mill Stream Run offers the thrill of a fast-paced toboggan ride all winter long, with or without snow. Just be sure to hold on tight—once you start moving, you're likely to top 50 miles per hour before you reach the bottom! You can always warm up in the Chalet or slow down and explore the park's snowshoe and cross-country ski trails while you're there. Mill Stream Run Reservation is operated by Cleveland Metro Parks and is just 20 minutes from the city.

Alpine Valley Ski Resort

10620 Mayfield Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026

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One of Ohio's top skiing destinations, Alpine Valley Ski Resort is nestled among the rolling hills of Northeast Ohio, less than 40 minutes from Cleveland. Their varied terrain includes gentle slopes that are great for beginners, as well as some more advanced slopes for seasoned skiers. Alpine Valley Ski Resort also offers equipment rentals and hands-on skiing courses with skilled instructors to help new skiers learn the ropes. If you get a little hungry between runs, stop in at the on-site restaurant for a bite, or warm up with a beverage at the Snow Belt Saloon.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

5793 Boston Mills Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264

Endless winter adventures await at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This wild 32,500-acre playground in Northeast Ohio includes 125 miles of hiking trails open year-round. The 19.7-mile Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail is especially popular among cross-country skiers thanks to its smooth grade, while the rugged Ledges Trail meanders among large rock formations that become encrusted in icicles every winter. Cuyahoga Valley National Park also offers some great opportunities for snow tubing and sledding, especially in the Kendall Hills section.

Blendon Woods Metro Park

4265 E. Dublin Granville Rd., Columbus, OH 43230

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Blendon Woods Metro Park is one of the best places in Columbus to get away from city life for a while and experience nature. This 653-acre park includes a waterfowl refuge and nature center, with an elevated platform overlooking Thoreau Lake that's a popular year-round spot for bird watching. Blendon Woods Metro Park also includes several trails that are perfect for a winter hike. The 2-mile Sugarbush Trail is especially popular among cross-country skiers. Best of all, the park has a shallow, man-made pond that freezes over in winter to form a natural ice skating rink.

Buckeye Lake

2905 Leibs Island Rd. NE, Millersport, OH 43046

A mere 30 minutes from Columbus, Buckeye Lake is one of the great winter destinations in Central Ohio. When the 3,100-acre lake freezes over in winter, it's one of Ohio's best ice fishing spots, thanks to its abundant populations of saugeye, panfish, and bass. Stop in one of the gear shops or cafes around the lake to warm up, and be sure to visit on January 22, 2022, for Winterfest. This annual event includes food and drink, live music, and various events around the lake, culminating in a spectacular fireworks show. Buckeye Lake is accessible for fishing through Buckeye Lake State Park, including a 4-mile shoreline path that connects the North Shore to Lieb's Island.

Mad River Mountain

1000 Snow Valley Rd., Zanesville, OH 43360

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Central Ohio's premier ski and snowboard destination, Mad River Mountain is located just an hour from Columbus in the rolling hills of Zanesville. Skiing is available December through March most years on the 1,460-foot mountain, with a vertical drop of 300 feet. Mad River Mountain offers challenging runs for experienced skiers, as well as a learning area with easier terrain for beginners. There's even a tubing area that kids can enjoy while the grown-ups ski and a bar and grill in the lodge that serves up tasty drinks and pub grub.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden opened in 1875, making it the second-oldest zoo in the United States. It's one of the absolute must-visit attractions in the Cincinnati area, no matter the season. In winter, visitors have some particularly special events to look forward to, including the spectacular PNC Festival of Lights. Visit on a winter weekend for Penguin Days, an annual event that includes discounted admission and a chance to meet the zoo's resident penguins up close and in person. Penguin Days goes from January 10 to March 11.

Fountain Square Ice Rink

520 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Fountain Square is at the center of Downtown Cincinnati. Every year from November through February, the square is overtaken by a massive outdoor ice rink open to public skating. A 90-minute ice skating session including skate rentals is just $10, and kids 4 and under can skate for free. The rink also includes a separate area for ice bumper cars, which are a heck of a lot of fun. Visit after dark to see Fountain Square lit up in holiday lights, and be sure to check out some of the shops and eateries that are just footsteps away. It's a perfect place for a romantic winter night out in Cincinnati. 

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum

1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013

An outdoor sculpture gallery spanning more than 300 acres, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum is a unique place in any season. But it's a particularly magical place in winter, when the trees, trails, and more than 70 sculptures are dusted with snow. Every year, the park also hosts a spectacular holiday lights display. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum is located in the community of Hamilton, less than 30 minutes from Downtown Cincinnati. 

Let It Snow

Where will you be spending your time outdoors in Ohio this winter?

With signs of habitation dating back to 13,000 BC, Ohio has a rich and colorful past. No matter what you learned in history books, it can't compare to seeing it with your own eyes. Whether it's a castle in Northeast Ohio, a covered bridge near Columbus, or a library in Cincinnati, a visit to these incredible sites will give you a new appreciation of our state.

Squire's Castle

North Chagrin Reservation, 2844 River Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094

If you're fascinated by the fictional royalty of Game of Thrones or real-life royalty of Queen Elizabeth and her family, don't miss Squire's Castle. Located at North Chagrin Reservation, Squire's Castle was built in the 1890s and patterned after German and English baronial castles. The gatehouse also serves as the trailhead for one of the North Chagrin's more scenic routes, and there's an adjacent picnic area that includes grills and seating. North Chagrin Reservation is open daily from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Maltz Performing Arts Center

Case Western Reserve University, 1855 Ansel Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

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The design and backstory of Maltz Performing Arts Center are as compelling as the events that take place inside it. Founded in 1850 as a temple for the local Reform Jewish congregation, the building has a unique heptagonal shape to fit the lot's odd configuration while approximating a circle, symbolizing unity. Thanks to the creative architecture and stunning interior, the building was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. A partnership between the Temple and Case Western Reserve University led to the creation of the Performing Arts Center, which hosts a number of concerts, lectures, and other cultural activities.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303

While many historical buildings bear the name of their original residents, that's not the case with Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term that translates to "stone quarry," which is a nod to the property's most prominent natural feature. The estate served as the home for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber, but they also generously opened their doors to the public for frequent community events. Hours are 10 a.m. - dusk Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $15 for adults and $6 for ages 6-17.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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Natural and man-made history combine to spectacular effect at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The 13-acre facility, located just two miles from downtown Columbus, is anchored by the John D. Wolfe Palm House. This glass greenhouse, which dates back to 1895, features 43 species of palms, including fiddle-leaf figs that were part of the original plantings. Seasonal and visiting exhibitions supplement the lush gardens and botanical biomes on permanent display. Franklin Park Conservatory is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $19 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.

Decorative Arts Center of Ohio

145 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130

Do you think of art as something that requires specialized skill or talent? The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio has a mission to awaken the creative spirit in everyone. Programming includes themed exhibits, classes, workshops, and lectures aimed at making art accessible to all. Welcome the new year with the upcoming exhibit, "Hindsight: The Art of Looking Back," which is particularly appropriate for exploring the past. "Classrooms" are located in the Reese-Peters House, a Federal/Greek Revival-style home built in 1835 and widely acclaimed as the finest house in Lancaster. Hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 1 - 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Mink Hollow Covered Bridge

Arney Run Park, 2340 Meister Rd. SW, Lancaster, OH 43130

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Covered bridges, once a common sight around the countryside, have become rare but treasured relics of the past. Only about one in 10 have survived to the present day, with Mink Hollow Covered Bridge being one of the more picturesque structures. At a length of 54 feet, this charming "house bridge" boasts the longest official name of any bridge in the country: Mink Hollow over Arney Run in Oil Mill Hollow near the Borcher's Mill Covered Bridge. Dog-friendly Arney Run Park is also a great spot for hiking, photography, bird-watching, and picnicking. Park hours are dawn till dusk, 365 days a year. 

National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting

8070 Tylersville Rd., West Chester, OH 45069

Before social media and television, news and entertainment were transmitted across radio waves. The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting highlights the development and impact of radio technology, both locally and globally. Cincinnati native Powel Crosley Jr., once dubbed "the Henry Ford of radio," was the driving force behind the Bethany Relay Station, which broadcasted from the building that now houses the museum. Other attractions include displays of early wireless transmitters and a fully-equipped ham station where you can observe the workings of shortwave radio. The museum is open weekends from 1 - 4 p.m. Admission is $10 for everyone aged 16 and older. 

The Mercantile Library

414 Walnut St. #1100, Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Established in 1835, the Mercantile Library is one of only about two dozen membership libraries that still exist in the country. Spread across the 11th and 12th floors of the building, the library holds more than 80,000 volumes on subjects ranging from contemporary fiction and poetry to travel and history. Harriet Beecher Stowe, Salman Rushdie, and Julia Child are just a few of the exciting guest lecturers who have appeared at the Mercantile. Hours are 9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday.

Carillon Historical Park

1000 Carillon Blvd., Dayton, OH 45409

Kitty Hawk may be the site of their first flights, but the dreams of the Wright Brothers first took hold in their hometown of Dayton. Carillon Historical Park shines a light on the Wright Brothers and other regional pioneers of transportation and industry. The 65-acre open-air museum includes displays such as the Wright Brothers National Museum, Great 1913 Flood Exhibit, and Heritage Center of Dayton Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship. Carillon Historical Park is open 9:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 9 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults and $8 for ages 3-17.

Yesterday Is History, Tomorrow Is a Mystery

What site in Ohio is associated with a significant memory from your own past?

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

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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

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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

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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

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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?

The air is crisp, temperatures are moderate and colors are vivid. Does the open road ever seem more appealing than it does during fall in Ohio? There's no better time to hop on your motorcycle and see all the natural splendor this state has to offer.

Celebrate National Motorcycle Ride Day on Saturday, October 9 with a road trip along one of these amazing routes around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

OH-26

Marietta, OH 45750

Every curve in the road brings a new view along OH-26, which follows the gentle bends of the Little Muskingum River out of Marietta. As the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory, Marietta itself is well worth a stop. On the road, covered bridges add a pleasantly rustic touch as you pass through towns with names like Steel Run and Woodsfield. Call it a day when you hit I-70 just before Morristown, or turn off on US-40 for more adventures. 

Hocking Hills Scenic Byway

OH-374 and US-33, Rockbridge, OH 43149

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Traversing 26 miles through the state park that shares its name, the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is one of the most stunning routes in Ohio. The byway connects the six non-contiguous sites of Hocking Hills State Park, making it perfect for a short jaunt or an all-day excursion. Enjoy the colors of the fall foliage, or stop off to explore further on one of the many hiking trails. Popular spots include the 50-foot cascades of Cedar Falls and Rock House, a tunnel-like cave located halfway up a 150-foot cliff.

Three Rivers Ride

Coshocton, OH 43812

It's all smooth travels on Three Rivers Ride, a 105-mile route developed by a veteran biker, with no gravel, water, or other impediments along the road. The ride takes the form of two loops that meet in the middle at Coshocton. Either one is a great trip, or if you're feeling ambitious, you can make both loops. Travel back in time when you cross the picture-perfect Helmick Covered Bridge. Built in 1863, the bridge was restored in 1996 to enchant new generations of visitors. With its living history tours, specialty shops, and canal boat rides, Historic Roscoe Village in Coshocton is a fascinating bookend to your day.

The Triple Nickel

OH-555, Zanesville, OH 43701

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With a catchy name like the Triple Nickel, how could you go wrong? This 159-mile trip starts off on OH-555 in Zanesville, heading south through Ringgold, Chesterhill, and Bartlett. It hugs the Ohio-West Virginia border before turning north to pass Watertown and McConnelsville. Check out a classic roadside attraction at Big Muskie's Bucket, featuring the remains of the one-time largest earth-moving machine in the world. Animal lovers can combine the ride with a side trip to The Wilds, a safari park and conservation center in Cumberland.

OH-4 to OH-2

Port Clinton, OH 43446

Old-school Americana is alive and well in Ohio, as represented in the landscape around Port Clinton. On any given day, you'll see farmers working in fields dotted with historic barns and classic equipment. Start your drive any place along OH-4, a north-south road that originates in Cincinnati, and follow it to OH-2, which takes you into Port Clinton. Once you reach your destination, visit attractions such as the Liberty Aviation Museum or African Safari Wildlife Park. Of course, you can't leave Port Clinton without a stop at a seafood restaurant for some yellow Lake Erie perch, a local favorite.

Windy 9

Athens, OH 45701

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All roads lead to Athens on Ohio's Windy 9. This collection of nine routes isn't "windy" like breezy, but "windy" as in twisting and turning. Numerous curves and elevation changes make for an entertaining ride that attracts a number of motorcyclists. Start your journey with Rim of the World, which runs nearly 90 miles along OH-78, named one of the most scenic highways in the country by Car and Driver. History buffs love Black Diamond Run, a 103-mile ride through the Little Cities of the Black Diamonds, a series of turn-of-the-century mining towns. For more current history, channel some flower power at the 60s-themed Fur Peace Ranch in Pomeroy.

Foothills of the Appalachians

West Union, OH 45693

If you're in the mood for a leisurely ride through some breathtaking scenery, head to the Foothills of the Appalachians. OH-125 leads out of West Union through gently rolling hills and farmland that inspire a delightful feeling of serenity. The crown jewel of this route is Shawnee National Forest, dubbed the "Little Smokies of Ohio." Approximately 8,000 acres are designated as wilderness, but there are many wonderful roads to follow in the other 52,000 acres. The forest is home to Copperhead Fire Tower, the first one in Ohio and a popular stop for visitors. Climb 60 feet to the top and get rewarded by panoramic views of the surrounding landscape below.

Amish Country Byway

OH-39 and US-62, Millersburg, OH 44654

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When you really want to get away from it all, there's no better trip than the Amish Country Byway. Leave the cell phones and computers behind as you discover (or rediscover) the joys of the land. One of the signature stops on this route is the Farmer's Product Auction, held on Tuesday and Thursday mornings in October. Get up close and personal insights into Amish life with guided tours, buggy rides, and the petting barn at Yoder's Amish Home. Don't forget to pick up a treat from the bakery before you go! Start or finish your day with a visit to the Amish & Mennonite Cultural Center, highlighted by the 10-foot by 265-foot circular mural known as Behalt. 

OH-93

Zanesville, OH 43701

Zanesville is the jumping-off point for yet another of Ohio's beautiful motorcycle rides. Pick up OH-93 just south of Zanesville and follow it through the black diamond region down to Ironton. Be sure to stop at Shawnee, a village that's home to 655 people but still feels frozen in time. Main Street, lined with brick buildings featuring protruding balconies, could be the set of a Western movie. 

Get Your Motor Running

What's a day on the open road without music? What favorite tunes make up your road trip playlist? 

Nothing gets done halfway in Ohio. Whatever your interests may be, you can indulge them to your heart's content. Immerse yourself in outdoor activities, cultural pursuits, and more at these popular destinations around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Immerse Yourself in Nature:

Hocking Hills State Park

19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138

Mother Nature shows off all her glory at Hocking Hills State Park, with six distinct areas showcasing a full range of features. The most popular area is Old Man's Cave, named for a hermit who once lived on the grounds and is buried beneath the main recess cave. Activities in the park include hiking, fishing, and rock climbing. If you want an extended stay, there are campgrounds and cottages along with a main lodge. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily and admission is free.

Immerse Yourself in Art: 

Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit

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Millions of viewers around the world have enjoyed the thrilling Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit, and this amazing sensory experience is headed to Cleveland. Gain a new perspective on classics such as Starry Night when you see them projected across 500,000 cubic feet. The background soundtrack adds another element as you wander past the moving images, noting each detail. Adding to the glamorous atmosphere is the secret location at a historic Cleveland venue, which will be announced shortly before opening day. Immersive Van Gogh runs from Thursday, September 9 through Sunday, February 6. Tickets are for specific showtimes from 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. and price is $50.

Immerse Yourself in Freedom:

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

50 E. Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center's location on the banks of the Ohio River has special significance. The mighty Ohio marks the physical and symbolic dividing line between Southern slave states and Northern free states. Taking inspiration from stories of the Underground Railroad, the Center is dedicated to keeping the spirit of freedom alive with permanent and special exhibits. Displays such as the Slave Pen, an actual structure recovered less than 60 miles from the Center, bring the realities of that era to life and underscore the heroic sacrifices made in the name of freedom. The Center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10.50 for ages 3-12, with tickets good for specific times.

Immerse Yourself in Air and Space History:

National Museum of the United States Air Force

1100 Spaatz St., Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, OH 45433

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People's fascination with flight dates back to the ancient Greek myth of Icarus. Get amazing insight into America's distinguished aviation history at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. A dozen galleries feature actual aircraft and other memorabilia from specific eras in aviation, including World War II, Cold War, and the space race. Memorial Park honors the sacrifices made by men and women of the Air Force, such as those missing in action during the Southeast Asia War. Museum hours are 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily and admission is free for all visitors. 

Immerse Yourself in Theme Park Fun:

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870

With 18 world-class roller coasters, Cedar Point is already well-known to thrill-seekers as "America's Roller Coast." But you don't have to be an adrenaline junkie to have a fun-filled time at this amusement park that's been entertaining visitors for 150 years. There are dozens of rides to fit any tolerance level, as well as an 18-acre water park with activities for all ages. Add live entertainment, shopping, and food and beverage, and there's never a dull moment. Visit the website for schedule and hours. Tickets start at $49.99, with add-ins and season passes available.

Immerse Yourself in Rock 'n' Roll:

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

1100 Rock and Roll Blvd. (E. 9th St.), Cleveland, OH 44114

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The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame denotes Cleveland's prominent place in pop culture history. Designed by famed architect I.M. Pei, the distinctive glass pyramid  celebrates music with an incredible assortment of artifacts, exhibits, videos, and interactive displays. In addition to the permanent collections, the Museum hosts a number of limited-time exhibits. Make your own music in the Garage, a fully supplied studio where you and your friends can hold an impromptu jam session. Visit the website for current hours and prices. Advance ticket purchase is required. 

Immerse Yourself in Island Life:

Kelleys Island

Kelleys Island, OH 43438

As you check out the seemingly endless attractions on Kelleys Island, you'll find it hard to believe this lively spot measures just over four square miles in size. Visit the museum to get some background on the island's history, such as Inscription Rock, which is carved with Native American symbols that date back to 1200 A.D. Art lovers will head to the gallery and adjoining sculpture garden, while sporting types can swim, golf, or scuba dive. Scheele Preserve, Lilac Walk, and North Pond are popular spots to take in the island's natural beauty. Don't miss Glacial Grooves, the number one destination on the island, created by the same glacier that formed the Great Lakes and Lake Erie Islands. 

Put-in-Bay

South Bass Island, OH 43456

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Dubbed the "Key West of the North," Put-in-Bay is a convenient getaway for a day or a weekend. In the past, the island has served as home to Native American tribes as well as the naval squadron of Commander Oliver Hazard Perry during the War of 1812. Today, people take the quick 18-minute ferry ride to explore Stonehenge Estate, paddleboard and parasail on the bay, visit the Lake Erie Islands Nature and Wildlife Center, and tour Crystal Cave at Heineman Winery. 

Immerse Yourself in Amish Country:

Ohio Amish Country

6 W. Jackson St., Millersburg, OH 44654

Ohio Amish Country offers a unique opportunity to experience the daily life of another culture. Tour an Amish home or view a working farm from a horse-drawn wagon. Kids love Madhrikan's Theater of Magic, a 90-minute show of spectacular illusions that includes audience participation. A number of local families open their homes to share authentic meals with visitors for a once-in-a-lifetime treat. Bargain hunters can shop till they drop for incredible buys at thrift shops, flea markets, and antique malls. You'll probably find that one day just isn't enough, so plan to spend the night at one of the charming inns or B&Bs in Holmes County.

What a Day for a Daydream

If you could immerse yourself in one activity for an entire week, what would you choose?