Posts with tag 'Things to Do'

Whether you're a historical enthusiast, a lover of fantasy fiction, or an admirer of ambitious architecture, the timeless mystique of castles is impossible to deny. Visiting them is the highlight of many people's European vacations, but did you know there are some you can visit a little closer to home? 

Ohio has many castles and castle-like structures spread out across the Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati areas. Some are historical buildings, while others were constructed a bit more recently. Here are nine of the most distinctive Ohio castles and some background information on what makes each unique. 

Loveland Castle Museum

12075 Shore Dr., Loveland, OH 45140 

Boy Scout leader Harry Delos Andrews created Loveland Castle Museum (sometimes called Chateau Laroche) as a hangout spot for his scout troupe (also called the Knights of the Golden Trail, or KOGT). Construction reportedly began in 1929 using materials fetched by Andrews and the 100-strong group of boys who made up the KOGT at the time. It was finally completed more than 50 years later and is now open to visitors.

Play a few games using the handmade chess, checkers, and puzzle sets scattered around the property, listen to a ghost story from one of the Knights on duty, or picnic in one of the many designated spots around the property. However you choose to spend your time here, this castle is sure to make you feel like a kid again.  

Elsinore Arch

1292-1298 Elsinore Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45202 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by I❤️CINCY (@513_cincinnati)

Also known as Elsinore Tower, this small Cincinnati monument was built in the 1880s as a pumping station for nearby Eden Park. The arch's design was inspired by Hamlet's Elsinore Castle, though it was replicated on a much smaller scale; there are only a handful of rooms in this building, and all of them house the equipment needed to run the waterworks. Because it is so small yet still so visually impressive, this is an excellent spot for a quick outing on a trip to the city - you'll see some history up close and get a great photo opportunity as well!

Squire's Castle

2844 River Rd., Willoughby Hills, OH 44094 

Squire's Castle is not actually a castle at all, but rather a gatehouse for a castle that was never completed. The building dates back to the 1890s and is designed according to English and German baronial styles of the time. The structure has been remodeled slightly over the years to reinforce its structural integrity: its upper two floors have been removed and its basement filled in with concrete. Visitors can wander around the inside of the building, enjoy walks on the nearby trails, or eat a meal at the picnic area just outside the stone structure.  

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens (@stanhywet)

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens was constructed in 1915 by F. A. Seiberling, one of the founders of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. The property was named after an Old English phrase meaning "stone hewn." Built in the Tudor Revival style, this Northeast Ohio estate includes 65 rooms and 70 acres of gardens and landscaped grounds.

Self-guided indoor tours are available for those who want to take a closer look at the remarkable interior finishes and architecture. Outside, you will find the hall's PlayGarden, a verdant paradise for kids. From bug catching and butterfly watching to geocaching, young visitors will always find something to do at this historic site.

Cote Bonneville

4795 Chapel Ridge Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45223 

Cote Bonneville was built in 1902 by Napoleon DuBrul, a cigar mold mogul originally from Quebec, Canada. This privately-owned 6-acre gated property features a towering stone manor built in the Romanesque Revival style. The stately castle-like home is part of the Cincinnati Preservation Association's annual Raeburn Estate House tour each spring, but even the outside of this incredible structure is well worth a visit. 

Ravenwood Castle

65666 Bethel Rd., New Plymouth, OH 45654

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ravenwood Castle (@ravenwood.castle)

Ravenwood Castle may look like a historical castle, but it was actually built less than 30 years ago in 1995. Inspired by English and Welsh castles from the 12th and 13th centuries, its original builders hoped to create a place where fans of medieval-themed popular culture could gather for a fun, immersive experience. They even built a tiny medieval village next to the castle to create a more immersive experience for their guests. In addition to grand occasions like weddings and formal events, this location is frequently used for recreational activities like board games, conventions, murder mysteries, and scavenger hunts. 

Glamorgan Castle

200 Glamorgan St., Alliance, OH 44601 

Glamorgan Castle was designed by Willard Hirsch for Colonel William Henry Morgan in 1904 and named for his ancestral home in Wales. Over the years, this gorgeous property has served as an Elk lodge and the corporate headquarters for Alliance Machine; it currently serves as the administrative building for Alliance City Schools, as well as a backdrop for local events like plays, weddings, and even car shows. For those interested in getting a better look at the castle's interior, there are guided indoor tours available every Friday afternoon. 

Landoll's Mohican Castle

561 Township Road 3352, Loudonville, OH 44842 

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Landoll's Mohican Castle (@landollscastle)

If it's a fairytale atmosphere you're after, look for the fanciful peaks of Landoll's Mohican Castle on the horizon. This impressive edifice was built by Jim Landoll, founder of the famous Landoll Publishing Company, in 1997. There were no floor plans or blueprints to guide the construction process; every room was built one at a time according to Landoll's vision. The castle was finally completed and opened for business in 2002. Twenty years later, this one-of-a-kind building is a well-loved hotel and restaurant and an extremely popular wedding destination. You can even go on ghost hunts in the cemetery on the castle's grounds. 

Enjoy a Taste of Royal Living

Which of these magnificent Ohio castles is your favorite? 

Ohio is filled with amazing destinations where you can explore history of all types, including some excellent museums and fascinating historical sites that highlight Black history. With places like the Cleveland African American Museum in Northeast Ohio, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, and the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center near Columbus, there are so many informative, inspiring places to visit during Black History Month in February. Today, we're going to take a closer look at 9 of the best places to explore all around Ohio for Black History Month this year.

John Mercer Langston Historic Home

207 E. College St., Oberlin, OH 44074

John Mercer Langston was a fascinating figure in African American history and a trailblazer who achieved many firsts as a Black man. He was the first known Black elected official in the country and the first Black congressman elected from Virginia. John Mercer Langston spent more than a decade living in Oberlin during the mid-1800s, and his historic residence has been preserved to the present day. You can still visit the home today, and it has been included on the National Register of Historic Places.

The African American Museum of Cleveland

1765 Crawford Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

One of the earliest independent museums on African American history and culture, the Cleveland African American Museum was founded by Icabod Flewellen in 1953. It moved to its current location in Cleveland's Hough neighborhood in 1984 and has continued its mission ever since. That mission is to raise cultural awareness, provide education about Black history, organize community events, and exhibit artifacts that tell stories about the African American experience. The museum is currently open on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays, with fundraising underway to reopen full-time in the future.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

50 E. Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NURFC (@freedomcenter)

Located in downtown Cincinnati since it first opened in 2004, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is an award-winning museum and educational center that tells the story of the Underground Railroad. The Underground Railroad was a network that helped escaped slaves reach free territories, and quite a few of the destinations on our list played a role in the Underground Railroad. Along with helping share the Underground Railroad story, this museum also works to pay tribute to all who worked to abolish human enslavement and secure freedom for all people. There are also some great virtual programs available for Black History Month and all year long if you can't make it to the museum in person.

John Parker House

300 N. Front St., Ripley, OH 45167

One of two destinations on our list located in Ripley, a small town southeast of Cincinnati along the Ohio River, the John Parker House is both a museum and the current home of the John P. Parker Historical Society. As a young man, John Parker escaped from slavery and dedicated his life to helping other slaves reach freedom. He was an inventor and was also very active with the Underground Railroad. The museum is open from Friday through Sunday during select times of the year, so be sure to check the schedule before visiting.

John Rankin House

6152 Rankin Hill Rd., Ripley, OH 45167

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Johnny A. Hodge (@johnnyprincev)

Also located in Ripley is the John Rankin House, one of the most active stops along the Underground Railroad in Ohio. The home of Reverend John Rankin was built in 1825 and was home to Rankin, his wife Jean, and their 13 children. The home, which overlooks the Ohio River, was recently restored and includes many unique artifacts from Rev. John Rankin's life as an abolitionist. You can stop by for a guided tour to learn all about this fascinating figure, his family, his work as an abolitionist, and his role in helping escaped slaves reach freedom.

Paul Laurence Dunbar House

219 N. Paul Laurence Dunbar St., Dayton, OH 45402

2022 marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of celebrated African American author and poet laureate Paul Laurence Dunbar, who spent many years living in Ohio. The Paul Laurence Dunbar House is now a museum and cultural center, where you can learn all about the prolific writer who produced 20 books, including novels, poetry, and short stories during his short lifetime. He purchased this home for his mother in 1904 and lived there with her while he produced some of his final literary works. The home is also the location of the Dunbar Literary Circle, which meets on the second Sunday of every month.

National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center

1350 Brush Row Rd., Wilberforce, OH 45384

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by National Afro-American Museum (@naamcc)

Dedicated to helping visitors learn more about African American contributions to history and culture in America, the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center is an excellent place to visit during Black History Month. Exhibits scheduled to run through 2022 include Rhythm of Revolution, Queens of the Heartland, Behind the Mask: Black Power in Comics, African Americans Fighting for a Double Victory, and more. There are also many permanent exhibits, including more than 8,000 artifacts.

John Gee Black Historical Center

48 Pine St., Gallipolis, OH 45631

Housed in the John Gee African Methodist Chapel, which held church services for nearly 200 years from its founding until its final service in 1997, the John Gee Black Historical Center is a cultural and educational center. The center works to preserve the culture, tradition, crafts, art, and music of Black Americans in southeast Ohio. In addition to the many exhibits on display, the John Gee Black Historical Center often hosts lectures where you can learn more about Black history and culture.

King Arts Complex

835 Mt. Vernon Ave., Columbus, OH 43203

Art, music, and culture play such a vibrant, vital role in telling the story of Black history. The King Arts Complex includes galleries that showcase painting, sculpture, photography, graphic design, and decorative arts. Many events are happening at the King Arts Center all year long, including the Heritage Music Festival, First Tuesday Tea, and a wide variety of youth arts education programs. The King Arts Complex is a place where you can learn about the many contributions that African Americans have made to the culture of Ohio and of the entire country.

Remembering the Past Makes for a Brighter Future

Whether you visit during Black History Month or at any other time of the year, all of these museums tell important stories that deserve to be heard. Which places will you explore to get in touch with history in Ohio this year?

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Alpine Valley (@alpinevalley_oh)

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Chris Blumenschein (@bmc_biker)

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mad River Mountain (@skimadriver)

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fountain Square (@myfountainsquare)

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?

It's always a treat to enjoy a breakfast bagel, but there's no better day than January 15, which is designated as National Bagel Day. This beloved carb comes in enough varieties to please anyone, and when you eat it with your favorite schmear or in a sandwich, you'll have an endless combination of choices.

Check out the following 9 places to have a bagel for breakfast in Ohio.

Northeast Ohio

Bialy's Bagels

2267 Warrensville Center Rd., University Heights, OH 44118

Bialy's Bagels has served the University Heights area since 1966, becoming an Eastside institution. They're even been named to Thrillist's list of "The Best Bagel Shops in America that Aren't in New York." The site praised the quality of the shop's New York-style bagels as well as its dedication to simply providing an excellent bagel. You'll find no toppings or other frills. Order your choice from a long list of bagel types, including roasted garlic salt, smoked sea salt rosemary, apple cinnamon, and pumpernickel. True to its name, the shop also makes bialys, which are a sort of cousin to bagels. It has a round, depressed middle filled with cooked onion, and unlike a bagel, which is baked after it's boiled, a bialy is just baked.

The Cleveland Bagel Co.

7501 Carnegie Ave., Cleveland, OH 44103

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Cleveland Bagel Company (@clebagelco)

At The Cleveland Bagel Co., you'll have your choice of several types of hand-rolled bagels that are made fresh every day. Go with plain for a traditional flavor, or pep it up by choosing rosemary with sea salt or cinnamon cranberry. Top off your bagel with a plain schmear, brie honey walnut, chorizo chipotle, or another flavor. And if you have a bigger appetite, bagel sandwiches are also served, including one with local free-range eggs and American cheese and a classic lox version with house-made lox, a plain schmear, red onion, and capers.

D&R Bagels

33567 Aurora Rd., Solon, OH 44139

Bagels are hand-rolled, kettle boiled, and baked fresh on-premises daily at D&R Bagels. They have plenty of varieties, and if you'd like to try a mixture of flavors, check out the shop's mini bagels. Treat yourself to your favorites such as cinnamon crunch, sun-dried tomato, chocolate chip, jalapeno, and more. Or stop by in the morning to grab a breakfast bagel or two with fillings such as egg and ham, bacon, sausage, pastrami, or corned beef. If you live nearby, you can even have your bagels delivered.

Columbus

The Lox Bagel Shop

772 N. High St. #106, Columbus, OH 43215

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by the lox bagel shop (@theloxbagelshop)

Located in the heart of the short north, The Lox Bagel Shop hand rolls, boils, and bakes its bagels using the highest quality ingredients. Enjoy them with a spread like beet and thyme, woodhouse vegan, or artichokes, or choose fancy jam from Prospect Jam. Co. in Cincinnati. When you're in the mood for more, order a bagel sandwich that comes stuffed with generous portions of filling. They're available for breakfast in varieties including The Lox, served with capers, onion, and cucumber along with an optional egg, or the Southwest, with egg, cheese, salsa, avocado, and optional pork. At lunch, The Pastrami (with mustard, pickled onion, and Swiss), is popular, as is the egg or tuna salad.

Block's Bagels

3012 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43209

Block's Bagels was opened in 1967 by two New York City transplants who couldn't find a bagel in Columbus that met their standards. They serve breakfast all day, so you can order breakfast sandwiches served on a bagel whenever you'd like. Customer favorites include the egg and swiss with corned beef as well as the egg and pepper jack with jalapenos and pastrami. For a lighter treat, try a bagel with your choice of cream cheese and a topping such as strawberry, garlic spice, or lox.

Nate's Steamed Bagels

3058 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43204

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nate's Steamed Bagels (@natessteamedbagels)

A pop-up located inside Third Way Cafe's coffee shop, Nate's Steamed Bagels uses a machine to precisely steam and cook bagel sandwiches. It allows the flavor of the bagel, protein, and cheeses to blend together perfectly before cold toppings and homemade sauces are added. For breakfast, order The Ride, which has an everything bagel along with egg, fresh spinach, cheddar, avocado, and tomato, and with Green Goddess sauce on the side. For brunch or lunch, try The Italian Stallion, which comes with an everything bagel, salami, pepperoni, ham, onion, banana peppers, provolone, and lettuce, with parmesan peppercorn sauce on the side.

Cincinnati

Bagel Brothers

347 Calhoun St., Cincinnati, OH 45219

For the past 29 years, Bagel Brothers has been family-owned and operated across the street from the University of Cincinnati. They not only bake their bagels every morning, the shop's owners and employees also make their cream cheeses on-site using fresh ingredients with no additives or preservatives. Chicken, tuna, and egg salads are also made from scratch, and you can enjoy these on a bagel sandwich. Choose your bagel flavor as well as a cream cheese flavor such as apple cinnamon, French onion, jalapeno, or cheddar.

The Bagelry

1401 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Bagelry (@bagelrycincy)

Located in Over the Rhine, The Bagelry makes its bagels fresh daily, starting by selecting the right ingredients and giving the bagels an overnight rise to let their flavors develop. From there, the bagels are hand-rolled and kettle-boiled to achieve a crispy exterior, chewy interior, and delicious flavor. Grab a single bagel like asiago, blueberry, or cinnamon raisin, and add a cream cheese flavor like roasted veggie, natural strawberry, or bacon scallion. If you'd like to take some home or to work to share, the shop offers a Brunch Bundle consisting of 12 bagels of your choice along with two tubs of cream cheese. The bagel sandwiches are also popular, including the Avocado Bagel Toast (with sliced avocado, onion, tomato, sea salt, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes) as well as the Smoked Turkey Club (with Lucius Q smoked turkey, bacon scallion cream cheese, lettuce, onion, and tomato).

Bagel Stop Sandwich & Catering

201 E. 5th St. Unit 11, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Choose your favorite combinations of bagels and spreads at Bagel Stop Sandwich & Catering, which is located in First Financial Tower. Bagel options include whole wheat, everything, and sesame, while spreads offered range from classic cream cheese to cinnamon butter or jelly. Or try a bagel sandwich that's customizable with your favorite toppings, cheeses, and sauces. Favorites include the roasted turkey breast with your choice of veggies and dressing, or an all-white-meat chicken salad made with celery, pecans, and cranberries.

You Knead a Bagel!

Where will you start your day with a yummy breakfast bagel in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati? 

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Maltz Performing Arts Center (@maltzcenter)

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Franklin Park Conservatory (@fpconservatory)

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Jason Valentine (@tkisscoffee)

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

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Mercantile Library (@themercantilelib)

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?