Posts with tag 'Things to do in Northeast Ohio'

With a charming mix of carnival rides, farm animals, and tasty food treats, county fairs are an iconic part of Midwest summers. In Ohio, these lively events date back literally hundreds of years. Mark your calendar for these must-see county fairs in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Medina County Fair

735 W. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256

Better late than never! After a year off, the Medina County Fair is celebrating its 175th anniversary during its 176th year. Traditional events, such as the popular livestock shows and bull riding contest, pay tribute to the fair's past. Live concerts, drag racing, and motocross are some of the entertainment options that highlight Medina's present. Kids can show off their creativity in coloring, art, writing, and hay bale decorating contests. The Medina County Fair runs from Monday, August 2 through Sunday, August 8. Admission is $7 for everyone 12 and over and $3 for kids aged 2-11.

Lorain County Fair

23000 Fairgrounds Rd., Wellington, OH 44090

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Another Northeast Ohio tradition observes a milestone as the Lorain County Fair, second largest in the state, reaches its 175th year. Each summer, people head to the fair for one last celebration before Labor Day leads into fall. One of the event's goals is to educate the public about animals with showings of horses, sheep, and poultry, along with auctions and skill demonstrations. Evening entertainment includes live music, derbies, and a rodeo. Enjoy thrilling midway rides for only $1 each or $20 for unlimited rides. Gates open at 8 a.m. each day from Sunday, August 22 to Sunday, August 29. Admission is $6, with no charge for kids aged 8 and under. A $30 season pass is good for seven admissions.

Great Geauga County Fair

14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton, OH 44021

The Great Geauga County Fair is just shy of two centuries, but it's twice as much fun as fairs half its age. Founded in 1823, the Great Geauga is the oldest continuous county fair in the state as well as one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the United States. There's fun for the whole family at the Natural Resource Area, which features demonstrations and activities centered around wildlife and environmental awareness. And what's a fair without an apple pie-eating contest? If you're feeling lucky, try your hand at the other family-friendly competitions, including Diaper Dash, Kiddie Tractor Pull, and 4-H 5K. The fair takes place Thursday, September 2 through Monday, September 6. Admission is $10 for ages 7 and above. Buy advance tickets online to save $2 and avoid the lines.

Hartford Fair

14028 Fairgrounds Rd., Croton, OH 43013

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Billed as the "Biggest Little Fair in the World," the Hartford Fair encompasses Licking County along with portions of Delaware and Knox counties. The fair also has a reputation as a reunion spot, as families use the occasion for annual gatherings of relatives from across the distance. Fans of motorsports are in seventh heaven with truck and tractor pulls, autocross, demolition derbies, and monster truck rallies. Even during the fair's earlier days, racing was the main attraction, including a foot race when Maggie McComb beat out William Lane. Fair days run from Sunday, August 8 through Saturday, August 14. Admission is $8 for ages 8 and above.

Delaware County Fair

236 Pennsylvania Ave., Delaware, OH 43015

Who says the outdoor fun has to end with summer? Enjoy some post-Labor Day delights at the Delaware County Fair. Horses are the main event here, starting with the parade that kicks off the festivities and right up to the Little Brown Jug, the fair's signature harness race. The impressive motorsports complex is the site of demolition derbies, truck pulls, and even school bus races. With a wide range of activities from eating contests and putt-putt golf to scavenger hunts and kids' crafts, there's something for everyone. This year's fair is scheduled for Saturday, September 18 through Saturday, September 25. 

Hardin County Fair

14134 Letson Ave., Kenton, OH 43326

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September means back to school, and kids won't need any encouragement to attend the "classroom" at the Hardin County Fair. One of the top activities is COSI on Wheels, a traveling outreach program that offers a variety of dynamic interactive experiments. A petting zoo and Columbus Zoo exhibit provide opportunities to get up close and personal with some fascinating animals and birds. Eli the Magician stars in two shows a day and strolls the grounds, delighting fairgoers with amazing tricks. These activities are all included in fair admission, which is $10 for everyone aged 9 and older. Fair dates are Tuesday, September 7 through Sunday, September 12. 

Hamilton County Fair

7700 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45216

Situated on 30 acres just north of Cincinnati, the Hamilton County Fair creates an interesting juxtaposition of agricultural and urban landscapes. City slickers get to learn about life on the farm, including a chance to try their hand at milking a cow. This year's grandstand events include go-kart racing and a soccer mom derby. Fire up your oven and prepare your best pies, cookies, breads, and cakes for the baking competitions. The Hamilton County Fair runs from Thursday, August 12 through Sunday, August 15. Admission is $10 per person, which includes all rides.

Allen County Fair

2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, OH 45804

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On October 21, 1851, it was reported that a "vast throng" attended the first Allen County Fair at Faurot Farm. Today, more than 200,000 visitors attend the annual event, making it one of the top fairs in the state. One of the biggest draws is the top-name entertainment that takes the main stage each year. Vince Gill, Def Leppard, Alabama, and Reba McEntire are just a few of the stars who have appeared at the Allen County Fair. 2021 is no exception, with Brad Paisley as the headliner. Fair days are Friday, August 20 through Saturday, August 28. Admission is $7 for ages 7 and up.

Champaign County Fair

384 Park Ave., Urbana, OH 43078

The Champaign County Fair includes livestock shows, craft exhibits, and other traditional fair activities, but this year's event will also be a classic rock lover's dream. Opening night features a three-hour extravaganza with Beatles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute bands. Fair dates are Friday, August 6 through Friday, August 13. Admission of $8 includes rides, while tickets for Rock the Fair are an additional $10.

Good Eats

Fair food is so popular that it has its own show on Food Network. What's the most memorable food you've eaten at a fair?

It's almost time to celebrate the Fourth of July in Ohio, and many of your favorite events will be returning for Independence Day in 2021. Whether you're interested in fireworks, music, educational family fun, fantastic food, or all of the above, you're sure to find the perfect celebration in one of Ohio's many vibrant communities. We don't want you to miss any of the action on the biggest holiday of the summer, so we've put together a guide to some of the best Fourth of July events in the Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati areas that offer something for every member of the family to enjoy.

Light Up the Lake

Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica Boardwalk – 2014 Sycamore St., Cleveland, OH 44113

The annual Light Up the Lake fireworks celebration can be viewed from a variety of great destinations throughout downtown Cleveland, including the beautiful Jacobs Pavilion at Nautica Boardwalk. This event is always a favorite for Northeast Ohio residents, with plenty of activities to enjoy downtown before the fireworks and festivities begin. As an open-air amphitheater with abundant lawn seating that's perfect for a Fourth of July picnic, Jacobs Pavilion is a great place to take in the sights of the evening. But if you have another favorite location, it's easy to see the fireworks display from anywhere downtown.

First Friday Fireworks: Celebrate America in Downtown Wadsworth

Downtown Wadsworth

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Get ready for a full day of family fun in downtown Wadsworth with the First Friday: Celebrate America event for the Fourth of July. Enjoy specials and activities at more than 30 local businesses in downtown Wadsworth, then be sure to save room for dinner! There will be various great food trucks on-site serving all of your favorite dishes from Ohio and beyond. After dinner, settle in for one of Ohio's best fireworks shows, with fantastic views available from a variety of scenic locations downtown.

Red, White, & Blue Flag Avenue

Sippo Lake Park – 5712 12th St. NW, Canton, OH 44708

Looking for a fun, unique way to keep younger members of the family entertained before the big fireworks shows on the Fourth of July? Kids are sure to love exploring the exciting, educational Red, White, & Blue Flag Avenue at Sippo Lake Park. Walk through the scenic park lined with flags as your kids learn all about the different red, white, and blue species of animals that call Ohio home, then wrap up your trip with a visit to the Wildlife Conservation Center. This event is available to be enjoyed every day during park hours for the two weeks around the Fourth of July holiday.

Fireworks on the Fourth of July

Thomas Worthington High School – 300 W. Dublin Granville Rd., Worthington, OH 43085

While Worthington's annual Rotary Family Picnic is delayed until Labor Day this year, you can still enjoy a festive fireworks display. The Thomas Worthington High School grounds will give viewers plenty of room to watch the annual celebration of the nation's independence. In addition to the stadium, the front lawn and other areas surrounding the venue will be available to attendees. In case of severe weather, the fireworks will be rescheduled with a rain date of Sept. 5th.

New Albany Independence Day Parade & Festival

New Albany Middle School Greenspace – 6600 E. Dublin Granville Rd., New Albany, OH 43054

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The New Albany Independence Day Parade & Festival has a special theme this year, with frontline healthcare workers and first responders being honored throughout the day. After the parade, head to New Albany Middle School for a family-friendly festival that includes games for kids, costumed characters, live music, and food from some of Ohio's best food trucks.

City of Dublin Independence Day Celebration

Dublin Community Recreation Center – 5600 Post Rd., Dublin, OH 43017

The City of Dublin Independence Day Celebration features a full day of fun and special events around the city. Whether you're watching or participating, the annual Shem Sheldon Fishing Derby is the perfect way to spend your morning. The Fourth of July Parade is up next, with a parade route that runs throughout downtown Dublin. After the parade, there will be more than five hours of live music from a diverse selection of bands before the evening wraps up with Dublin's annual fireworks display.

Sawyer Point Summer Concert Series Fourth of July Celebration

705 E. Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

If you love live music, you won't want to miss the Sawyer Point Summer Concert Series Fourth of July Celebration this year. The fun starts in the afternoon, with live performances from four different bands that will last well into the evening. There will be plenty of delicious food and drink to enjoy throughout, with a fantastic fireworks display set to follow all of the live music.

Coney Island Park Balloon Glow

6201 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230

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Enjoy a family evening out at the amusement park on July 3 and experience one of the more unique Cincinnati Fourth of July celebrations at the Coney Island Park Balloon Glow. The show starts with over a dozen colorful, well-lit hot air balloons taking to the sky above the amusement park, which you can enjoy while experiencing all of the attractions that the park has to offer. After the balloons, there will be a spectacular fireworks finale to cap off an evening of family fun at the amusement park.

Colerain Township Fourth of July Spectacular

4200 Springdale Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45251

Get ready for a night of amazing live music and a fantastic fireworks display at the Colerain Township Fourth of July Spectacular. This event is free for everyone to enjoy, and the fun starts with an evening of music from the Classic Rock Experience. They'll be playing all of the hits from the '70s and '80s in an outdoor concert, providing the perfect way to get warmed up for the grand finale. After the concert, the skies will light up with a dazzling display of fireworks to close out the evening.

Celebrate Fireworks, Freedom, and Family

Independence Day celebrations are back with a bang for 2021! Which one will you attend?

Do you ever feel like you're always rushing to get somewhere? When you long to slow it down, unwind with the relaxed pace of a horseback ride. Enjoy this healthy and eco-friendly activity at one of these top riding facilities around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Chagrin Valley Farms 

9250 Washington St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44023

Chagrin Valley Farms has a mission to serve all riders through every stage of the "horsemanship cycle." Whether you're a veteran rider or a first-timer, their experienced staff will help you reach your goal. The 85-acre facility includes two heated indoor arenas and four outdoor rings along with pastures and trails. Group, private, and semi-private lessons are available for all ages. Newcomers take an introductory ride so instructors can accurately assess your level and make sure you receive optimum placement. Visit the website for information about their horsemanship camps for kids that are offered year-round.

River Road Horse Farm

1009 River Rd., Hinckley, OH 44233

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For the owner and caretaker of River Road Horse Farm, horses and riding are literally their life. Both live on-site so they're easily accessible and stay responsive to the needs of the farm, including horses and riders. Owner Mark Palik, who purchased the farm in December 2011, is continually upgrading the facility to provide a superior experience for guests. One recent change was the addition of a second indoor arena. Lessons are offered for riders starting at age 5, so kids can get started on a lifelong appreciation of horsemanship. 

Stable Solutions Farm

12381 Easton St. NE, Alliance, OH 44601

Loree Stubblefield, owner of Stable Solutions Farm, knows firsthand how powerful the connection between people and horses can be. After Loree's father was stricken with a brain injury and her daughter was diagnosed with a heart condition, she made the decision to run the farm while caring for her family. Today, Stable Solutions is known for its many equine therapy programs, which benefit those with special physical, emotional, and social needs. Guests also love the miniature Australian shepherds raised by Loree's family, who are frequently wandering the grounds.

Sid Griffith Equestrian Center

7380 Scioto Darby Rd., Hilliard, OH 43026

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The story of Sid Griffith, founder of the popular equestrian center than bears his name, is something of a legend. At the age of 11, when his parents refused to indulge his early love of horses, Sid began working at a dude ranch in order to earn riding time. After purchasing his first horse with money from his 16th birthday, Sid went on to an illustrious career riding, showing, and training horses. These days, Sid remains active running his full-service equestrian center along with his wife and their youngest daughter, an award-winning rider in her own right. 

Field of Dreams

1841 Unbridled Way, Blacklick, OH 43004

You would be forgiven for thinking Field of Dreams is a baseball diamond. The name refers to owner Jennifer Hansen's childhood dream to own a horse. After graduating from law school at Ohio State University, Jennifer finally got her wish and wanted to share the experience with other kids who also thought their dream was unattainable. In addition to offering traditional riding programs, Field of Dreams is the home of Dreams on Horseback, a non-profit organization founded by Jennifer that provides therapeutic riding programs.

Horse-N-Round Fun, LLC

Mount Sterling, OH 43143

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Picture yourself on the back of a magnificent horse, enjoying the serenity of nature as you leave the rest of civilization behind. Horse-N-Round Fun, LLC conducts trail rides from 30 minutes to four hours for riders ages 10 and up. You'll pass through peaceful wooded areas, cross gentle streams, and share the space with wild turkeys, rabbits, deer, and other wildlife. If you have a specific trail you want to ride, Horse-N-Round Fun can also bring the horses to you. Hand-led trail rides are available for youngsters ages 4 and up so they don't have to be left out. Plans are in the works to offer riding lessons and other services, so watch their website for news.

Muddy Water Equestrian Park

10129 Mill Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231

Does the idea of riding a horse appeal to you, but you're not quite confident you can handle it? Muddy Water Equestrian Park wants all visitors to be comfortable with their decision to ride. At 10:30 a.m. on the fourth Sunday of each month, they have a horseback riding seminar to help newbies become familiar with the experience. Afterward, you'll head out on the noon trail riding session. One-hour trail rides are held at noon, 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. each weekend for guests 8 years or older. Price is $30 per person, or $85 if you want to participate in the seminar. Younger kids can have their own staff-led pony rides for only $5.

Winton Woods Riding Center

10073 Daly Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45231

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For nearly 70 years, Winton Woods Riding Center has been a leading equestrian facility serving the Cincinnati area. They are known for their outstanding instruction programs as well as their equestrian teams for middle and high school students. Team members get a chance to participate in competitions without having to own a horse. Each Saturday and Sunday at 5:30 p.m., one-hour trail rides are available for ages 7 and up with a fee of $45 per person. Guests are also welcome to bring their own horses and access the trail that's approximately five miles round trip.

East Fork Stables

2215 Snyder Rd., Batavia, OH 45103

Horses are definitely a family affair for George Wisbey, owner of East Fork Stables. As chief of the Cincinnati Fire Department, George's great-grandfather trained the department's horses and later founded the first retirement farm for the fire horses. George, his father, and his grandfather all had successful careers training horses for racing and movies, and his wife Judy runs the summer horse camp. East Fork Stables includes an indoor arena, a riding track around a lake, and 50 miles of trails to accommodate whatever experience you're looking for.

A Horse with No Name

Race horses are known for their quirky, colorful names. If you owned a horse, what name would you choose?

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June is Great Outdoors Month, and Ohio is a particularly beautiful place to spend some time outside in June. In every corner of the Buckeye State, an endless array of parks, lakes, rivers, and trails are just waiting to be explored. If you're looking for an outdoor adventure this month, be sure to check out these wild destinations in Ohio!

Geneva State Park

4499 Padanarum Rd., Geneva, OH 44041

Overlooking the vast expanse of Lake Erie in Northeast Ohio, Geneva State Park is one of the state's true gems when it comes to summer fun and relaxation. Geneva State Park includes a sandy swimming beach, beautiful picnic areas, and a campground with nearly 100 sites for tents and RVs. But one of the park's greatest attractions is fishing. Lake Erie provides some of the best fishing in America for walleye, perch, smallmouth bass, and other species. You'll find a marina and boat launch facilities along with a fishing pier and ample open shoreline in Geneva State Park.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

5793 Boston Mills Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264

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Cuyahoga Valley National Park feels worlds away from civilization despite being less than an hour from major cities like Cleveland and Akron. It is, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular outdoor attractions in Northeast Ohio. Spanning more than 50 square miles, the park follows the course of the Cuyahoga River through its namesake valley, providing a haven for native plants and wildlife. You can explore more than 125 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails within the park, including the beautiful Towpath Trail, which follows the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal. If you're experiencing Cuyahoga Valley National Park for the first time, the Boston Mills Visitor Center is a great place to start.

Rocky River Reservation

Valley Parkway, North Olmsted, OH 44070

One of 18 reservations that make up Cleveland's extensive Metroparks system, Rocky River Reservation is a long, narrow park that follows the meandering course of the Rocky River. Trails and other attractions draw visitors to both sides of the river, which is a prime waterway for fishing and paddling. But what makes the Rocky River Reservation really stand out is its equestrian trails, which stretch for miles through the riverside forests. It's one of the best destinations in Northeast Ohio for horseback riding. Rocky River Stables offers riding lessons and guided horseback riding trips.  

Alum Creek State Park

3305 S. Old State Rd., Delaware, OH 43015

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A popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports of all kinds, Alum Creek Lake is one of Ohio's largest reservoirs and is located just minutes from Columbus. The lake is long and narrow, making it ideal for water skiing and personal watercraft, but it also has plenty of secluded coves and shorelines perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Campgrounds, picnic areas, fishing access, and a swimming beach are located within Alum Creek State Park. Alum Creek Lake can get a little busy on summer weekends, so it's always a good idea to visit mid-week if you want to beat the crowds. 

ZipZone Outdoor Adventures

7925 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43235

We hope you aren't afraid of heights! ZipZone Outdoor Adventures offers one of the most thrilling, adrenaline-fueled outdoor adventures in Ohio, and you can experience it all without leaving the Columbus city limits. ZipZone provides a wide range of aerial thrills, including zip line tours high in the forest canopy, and an exciting treetop obstacle course with five routes and over 60 challenge elements. There's a ground-level kids' park as well, making ZipZone a great option for the entire family.

Hocking Hills State Park

19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138

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The entire Hocking Hills region has a reputation as one of Ohio's great outdoor playgrounds, a haven for everything from hiking and paddling to camping and fishing. Hocking Hills State Park, just over an hour southeast of Columbus, is one of the region's great destinations to enjoy all of the above. The park's rugged landscape includes towering cliffs, tumbling waterfalls, and dense, shady groves of hemlock trees crisscrossed by hiking trails. Campsites and cabins are available too. 

Little Miami National Scenic River Trail

211 Railroad Ave., Loveland, OH 45140

Flowing between Dayton and Cincinnati, the Little Miami River was one of the first streams in America to be designated a National Scenic River. It's one of Ohio's most beautiful paddling destinations, meandering through mile after mile of forests and farmland. The community of Loveland, OH is a popular place to begin paddling trips on the river. Guided trips and gear rentals are available through Loveland Canoe & Kayak. For anyone who prefers to stay on dry land, the river is paralleled by the 78-mile Little Miami Scenic Bike Trail.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220

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Always one of Cincinnati's biggest summer attractions, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is operated with a commitment to inspiring visitors and helping preserve wildlife. One of the oldest zoos in the U.S., it's been open since 1873 and is currently home to the world-famous hippo Fiona. The adjoining botanical gardens are just as impressive, displaying a spectacular variety of Ohio native plants and trees, as well as non-native plants from around the world. The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is frequently ranked among the best Zoos in America, although the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium gives it a run for its money! 

Mt. Airy Forest

5083 Colerain Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45223

At 1,500 acres. Mt. Airy Forest is Cincinnati's largest park. It was also, at the time of its establishment in 1911, one of the earliest urban reforestation projects in U.S. history. Today, the park offers some of the best opportunities for Cincinnati residents to get off the grid and enjoy some time in the great outdoors. Mt. Airy forest is home to many miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, as well as picnic areas, playgrounds, a dog park, disc golf course, and Ohio's only wheelchair-accessible public treehouse. 

Share Your Adventure

Ohio is filled with incredible destinations where you can immerse yourself in the natural world. Be sure to tell us all about your Great Outdoors Month adventures in the comments section!