Posts with tag 'Outdoors'

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!

The earliest water-powered mills date back to the Roman Empire. As farming became an increasingly important part of Ohio's economy, mills were so vital to the industry that communities frequently grew around them.

In the 21st century, several mills remain as monuments to the development of agriculture around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Step back in time for a fascinating look at our state's past with a trip to these picturesque historic mills. 

Historic Clifton Mill

75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316

With its red-sided building, giant wheel, and cascading water, picture-perfect Historic Clifton Mill could have been pulled from a movie set. In reality, the authentic 19th-century grist mill is the only one of six mills in the immediate area that remains standing. After touring the mill, stroll across the adjacent 90-foot covered wooden bridge for some spectacular views of the grounds and stop in at the 1940s Gas Station Museum next door. Complete your day with a fresh-cooked meal at the onsite restaurant, serving breakfast and lunch seven days a week. During spring and summer, the mill itself is open weekdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Admission is $3. Call ahead to confirm.

Wolf Creek Mill

St. Rt. 3 South, Loudonville, OH 44842 

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Just over 20 years ago, Mark Smith and his family were camping in nearby Mohican State Park when they discovered Wolf Creek Mill. Sadly, this once-impressive grist mill had fallen into severe disrepair after years of neglect. As a historic restoration contractor, Mark was inspired to form the non-profit Friends of the Mill Group to restore the site's original glory. The mill itself is now back in operating condition, and the group's ultimate goal is to create a historic village, preserving tradition for future generations. Visit the website for hours as well as the schedule of fundraisers, trade fairs, and other events.

Bear's Mill

6450 Arcanum-Bears Mill Rd., Greenville, OH 45331

While the name may sound like a wildlife sanctuary, Bear's Mill is named for Gabriel Baer, the man who constructed the building in 1849. Incredibly, the framework consists of hand-hewn timber beams that are close to 50 feet long without a single splice. But this still-functioning grist mill is about more than commerce. It also houses the Clark Gallery, a space devoted to showcasing a rotating selection of works from local artists, including pottery made by Bear's Mill potters. Admission is free. Hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 1 – 5 p.m. Sunday.

Gaston's Mill

12021 Echo Dell Rd., East Liverpool, OH 43920

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Travel back in time with a visit to Pioneer Village at Beaver Creek State Park. In addition to Gaston's Mill, a fully restored grist mill dating back to 1837, the village is home to a blacksmith shop, chapel, schoolhouse, and a canal-era lock, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beaver Creek State Park and Pioneer Village are open to the public daily at no charge, while Gaston's Mill may be viewed in operation on select weekends during the summer.

Bieber Mill

4919 Chapman Rd., #4801, Delaware, OH 43015 

Tucked away on the banks of the Olentangy River, the ruins of the Bieber Mill might resemble one of the castles from Game of Thrones. In 1848, only a few years after its construction, George Bieber and his son James purchased the original wooden grist mill. James later built a towering stone mill, but lost ownership when he couldn't afford to run the business. Sadly, a fire in the early 1900s destroyed the frame mill and part of the stone mill. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources currently owns the property. They have stabilized the remains and hope to obtain financing for a complete restoration. In the meantime, Bieber Mill's beauty still shines through, making it a popular spot for sightseers and photographers.

Rock Mill

1429 Rockmill Pl. NW, Lancaster, OH 43130

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The current Rock Mill, which is the stunning centerpiece of Stebelton Park, is actually the third structure to bear the name. In the mid-2000s, the building underwent a major restoration, including the creation of a 26-foot all-wood waterwheel, which is the largest one in the state. Across from the waterwheel is a breathtaking 14-foot waterfall, where the Hocking River flows through the gorge. A quaint white covered bridge completes the nostalgic scene. The park is open daily from dawn until dusk, while tours of the mill are offered from noon - 4 p.m. each weekend from May through October.

Sauder Village

22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH 43502

If a history book came to life, it would be Sauder Village. Back in 1976, Erie Sauder built his namesake village as a living tribute to the pioneering spirit that shaped Ohio. Among the 75 historic structures and 50,000 artifacts is a working grist mill, which is used to grind corn into meal for their cooking demonstrations. Visitors also get a chance to try their hand at grinding corn with stones and replicate the method used by Native Americans. Other points of interest include Erie's Farm Shop and the Cabinet Shop, where you can learn more about Erie's other legacy, Sauder Woodworking. Sauder Village opens for the season on May 6. Visit the website for information about hours and admission prices. 

Garrett's Mill & Brewing Company

8148 Main St., Garrettsville, OH 44231

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"Reuse, repurpose, recycle" is today's mantra of environmental awareness, and it's clearly what owners Shelli and Brian Buchanan had in mind when they founded Garrett's Mill & Brewing Company. When it was constructed in 1804, Garrett's Mill served a radius of 20 miles, leading to the development of the town that bears the same name. Shelli and John kept the essence of the mill in creating their brewery and gastropub. In addition to inventive house brews such as Garrett's Gold and Ma Barker Birch Beer, the restaurant serves elevated pub fare. Signature dishes include the "Brewben," with bratwurst subbing for corned beef, and BBQ chicken gouda mac. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, noon - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 7 p.m. Sunday.

Down by the Old Mill Stream

Grist mills produce flour, which is the foundation for many of our favorite foods. Donuts, cakes, bread, pie ... what's number one on your list of baked goods? 

Spring is in the air, and now is the perfect time to enjoy a little bit of tranquility. There are few things more relaxing than taking a walk through lush gardens and beautiful landscapes. While there's no shortage of places to enjoy the outdoors in Ohio, visiting a professionally-cared-for arboretum is a different kind of experience.

It might surprise you to learn that there are many great arboretums in Northeast Ohio and the surrounding area. Here are a few of our favorites.  

The Holden Arboretum

9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094

Spanning more than 3,600 acres, the Holden Arboretum is one of the largest botanical gardens and arboretums in the United States. It features 600 acres that are exclusively dedicated to gardens and collections. This stunning arboretum truly is a"living museum." 

When you visit, you'll have the chance to walk through over 20 miles of trails and explore multiple themed public gardens. They also offer tours and guided hikes. Even better, it's dog-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend on your adventure with you. 

Seacrest Arboretum

2122 Williams Rd., Wooster, OH 44691

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The Seacrest Arboretum is a free attraction that draws over 10,000 visitors each year. It's located on the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center campus and is open 365 days a year from dawn to dusk. This attraction features themed gardens with over 2,500 varieties of plants. You'll love strolling along their paved walkways that run through the over 110 acres of forest, meadows, and gardens. 

This space is perfect for taking a walk or even bringing a picnic lunch. Well-behaved pets on leashes are also welcome. Take a look at their website to learn about their guided walks, plant sales, and other community events.

Gardenview Horticultural Park

16711 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136

A nonprofit arboretum and botanical garden, Gardenview Horticultural Park is open to non-member visitors on weekend afternoons. It features 6 acres of rare plants and flowers displayed in a natural, cottage-style landscape. Since this is a lesser-known garden, it's a great place to enjoy some quiet time away from the hustle and bustle.  

This oasis of lush plants, trees, and unusual flowers is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing walk and the ideal setting for amateur photographers to practice their skills. The $5 admission fee is well worth the cost.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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There's never a shortage of things to explore at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens! Start your adventure at the Conservatory's biodomes, where you'll find over 400 species of plants. These indoor glass greenhouses allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature in any kind of weather.

The John F. Wolfe Palm House is one of the oldest portions of the conservatory. It features 43 different species of palm trees from around the world, many of which are considered endangered in the wild. There are also a variety of outdoor gardens, collections of artwork, and more. The cost of an adult ticket is $19 and includes access to all of the gardens and displays. We're sure you'll find that it's worth every penny! 

Lower Olentangy Urban Arboretum

E. Weber Rd., Columbus, OH 43202

Located in the historic Clintonville area of Colombus, the Lower Olentangy Urban Arboretum is home to hundreds of native trees and shrubs. There are markers identifying some of the trees, and you can print out maps that will guide you to interesting flora in the neighborhood. When you're done checking out the various plant species, make sure to visit the nearby ravines. They're a sight to behold!  

Chadwick Arboretum

152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210

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Chadwick Arboretum is located on the campus of Ohio State University in Columbus. It spans an impressive 62 acres and features various gardens that include native and non-native annuals, perennials, shrubs, and trees. While there, you can relax and reflect at The Learning Gardens, explore the Lane Avenue Gardens, and enjoy some time at The Arboretum North. The last is a hidden gem that features over 1,000 native trees, a 3.5-acre research lake stocked with several fish species, and a picnic area. 

Mt. Airy Arboretum

5100 Arboretum Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45223

The 30-acre Mt. Airy Arboretum is a public park that's set within Mt. Airy Forest. It features hundreds of different types of trees as well as garden areas and hiking paths. We recommend walking the 1.4-mile trail, where you'll have a good chance to see wildlife in addition to a wide variety of trees, plants, and flowers. We also recommend packing a picnic lunch so you can enjoy one of their secluded picnic areas while you're there. 

Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum

4521 Spring Grove Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45232

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You might not think of a cemetery as the best place to spend your free time, but the Spring Grove Cemetery & Arboretum is an exception! This 1840s cemetery is the third-largest in the United States. It's also an arboretum, offering an expansive collection of both native and exotic plants.

When you visit, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy approximately 450 acres of beautifully landscaped and maintained land. This makes it a "must-see" attraction whether you live in the Cincinnati area or are here visiting. It truly is both a local and a national treasure. 

Stanley Rowe Arboretum

4600 Muchmore Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243

The Stanley Rowe Arboretum is a public space in Cincinnati that is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk. It spans 8.9 acres and features approximately 1,800 different species of trees and plants. There are also several well-kept winding trails and open green spaces where you can enjoy a picnic lunch. 

Each tree and shrub on the grounds is labeled with a small sign that tells you its species and native origin. This makes it a dream come true for those who are into botany and want to learn more about plant classifications. From taking a leisurely walk to settling down with a good book, this arboretum is the perfect place to get away from it all. 

Spring Has Sprung! 

Celebrate the change of season among the area's most beautiful flowers and trees. 

No matter which corner of Ohio you call home, you're likely to have a great public golf course located close to your front door. Ohio has a long tradition of outstanding golf, with a variety of PGA Tour events happening in the state every year and several inviting courses for golfers of all experience levels. Best of all, you won't need a membership to play at some of the most enjoyable public courses in Columbus, Cincinnati, Northeast Ohio, and beyond. With golf season around the corner, now is the perfect time to find your new favorite course with our list of nine of the best public golf courses around Ohio.

Northeast Ohio

The Quarry Golf Club & Venue

5650 Quarry Lake Dr., Canton, OH 44730

Start your tour of Northeast Ohio golf courses with a trip to The Quarry Golf Club & Venue, which was built on a historic quarry and features some of the most stunning scenery that you'll find on any golf course in Ohio. With towering cliffs, large water features, tree-lined fairways, and scenic streams winding throughout the course, you're sure to love the views from the tee box. The 18-hole layout here is challenging but accessible, with unique course design thanks to the quarry setting. You will also find a full pro shop, an inviting clubhouse, and a great place to grab a bite after your round at the Granite Grille.

Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links

294 W. Turkeyfoot Lake Rd., Akron, OH 44319

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Established in 1925, Turkeyfoot Lake Golf Links has been providing an outstanding golf experience to Akron residents for nearly a century, with a 27-hole layout that will appeal to golfer of all experience levels. This is a great place to play if you're new to the game, with multiple PGA Golf Professionals available for lessons every day. Enjoy a quick 9 holes, play a full 18, or make it a marathon and play all 27 holes. The course includes challenging water features, tight, tree-lined fairways, and well-manicured greens. 

Shale Creek Golf Club

5420 Wolff Rd., Medina, OH 44256

With a 4.5 star rating from Golf Advisor and a reputation for excellence, Shale Creek Golf Club is a public course with all of the trappings of a private club. The 18-hole course, surrounded by woods and water features, is as scenic as it is challenging. There's great dining on-site for unwinding after your round, whether you're playing in a league or hitting the links with a few friends. Thinking of starting your own golf league? Shale Creek Golf Club can help, with league slots available on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday afternoons.

Columbus

Wilson Road Golf Course

1900 N. Wilson Rd., Columbus, OH 43228

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In the mood for a golf outing, but don't have time to play a full 18 holes? Wilson Road Golf Course has you covered, with a 9-hole, executive golf course that's perfect for a round after work or on a weekend morning. It's a great place to visit if you're new to the game or want to teach your kids how to play golf. There are also leagues for all ages – kids included – where you can enjoy great golf and make some new friends in the process.

Champions Golf Course

3900 Westerville Rd., Columbus, OH 43224

Champions Golf Course is a long-time Columbus favorite and is part of an excellent collection of courses maintained by the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks Department. The course was designed by famed golf course architect Robert Trent Jones and is known as one of the most challenging public golf courses in the area. Stop at the driving range before your round to sharpen your skills, and grab some new gear from the pro shop. Champions Golf Course also has an expansive new 10,000-square-foot clubhouse, which includes a grill room and banquet space.

Turnberry Golf Course

1145 Clubhouse Ln., Pickerington, OH 43147

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Named after one of the most famous, historic golf courses in Europe, Turnberry Golf Course provides an exciting, links-style layout that you won't have to travel across the Atlantic to enjoy. This 18-hole course is filled with rolling hills, high fescue grass in the rough, large fairways, and tight greens that reward excellent approach shots. While it's quite a challenging course to play from the back tees, there are five different tees that make the course enjoyable and approachable even if you're brand new to the game.

Cincinnati

Blue Ash Golf Course

4040 Cooper Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45241

Blue Ash Golf Course is one of best public golf courses in Cincinnati and has been rated as one of the top 75 municipal golf courses in the country by Golf Digest. If you're looking for a challenge, then you're sure to find it at this championship-style layout. The course is always beautifully maintained, and is open year-round weather permitting. After your round, stop by the Sandtrap Grill for some delicious seafood, steaks, and all of your favorite drinks.

Beech Creek Golf Course

1831 Hudepohl Ln., Cincinnati, OH 45231

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Searching for a local golf course that the whole family can enjoy? Beech Creek Golf Course features an 18-hole layout that's perfect for introducing kids and new players to golf in a fun yet challenging setting. Play the full 18 holes including the more challenging front 9, or simply play the back 9 for a quick round with the family. The pro shop is the perfect place to stock up on supplies before you enjoy a round of golf, while the bar & grill has everything you need to recharge while discussing your latest round with your group.

Glenview Golf Course

10965 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45246

When you're in the mood for a long, enjoyable round of golf, be sure to check out the 27-hole Glenview Golf Course, where you can pick your favorite 18 holes to play from three unique 9-hole layouts. It's also a great place to work on your game, with expansive practice facilities and expert instruction available. Glenview Golf Club offers extensive junior golf programs where kids of all ages can learn about and fall in love with the game.

Fore!

Ohio golf courses are the perfect places to stretch your legs and enjoy some outdoor fun throughout the spring, summer, and fall this year. With so many outstanding courses to choose from, your Ohio golf journey is only just beginning.