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It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas!!

WOW, where has the time gone? Christmas is a month away and it is already snowing! Maybe we will have a “White Christmas” this year. EEEKK! Let the holiday cheers roll! I am back with Ohio. Find It Here. to bring you some fun holiday activities. These activities can be done with family, friends, or your significant other. Around the holidays everyone likes to do holiday gift guides. This is similar. Think of this as my holiday activity guide ;p   What makes this one so fun and special is all of the activities are done right here in Cincinnati and the surrounding areas! As always, grab your family and friends, and this time of year, grab a coat, and get out and celebrate the holidays in Ohio!

Shopping At Home!

Do you like to shop, but want to avoid large crowds? I have just the thing for you, Shop Til You Drop-At Home!Online shopping is a great way to avoid crowds but still purchase what you need hassle free. Plus, online shopping has become the new day and age shopping and is super convenient with what is going on now in the world. Shopping online provides so much ease and less chaos in the comfort of your own home. I love to shop and honestly do a lot of my shopping online. I could online shop for hours! The good thing about online shopping is, there is something quick and easy for everyone just a click away. Some of my favorite places to online shop are Amazon, Zara, Women’s Clothing Boutiques, Designer Shoe Companies (i.e. YSL, Balenciaga, Bottega, Valentino, and more), Candle Stores, and more.

Tree Picking at Findlay Market

Is a real Christmas Tree your thing? Look no further, a Findlay Market has plenty of Christmas Trees to choose from. The tree sale at Findlay Market is a huge fundraiser for them! They have such a great selection with new ones being regularly delivered. Whether you want big or small, they have the perfect fit for your family. The tree/greens sale is located on the west side of the Market, at Jane’s Bar.

Ice Skating like Kristi Yamaguchi

Did you know that you and your friends can skate at an outdoor ice arena in the middle of downtown? Yep, you sure can! Every year from November 7 through February 15, UC Health and Fifth Third Bank present an outdoor ice arena that takes over Fountain Square. It is so much fun to get on the ice and feel like a kid again that must learn how to skate. It is even more fun when you go with a small group of friends, and everyone is out on the ice looking like babies trying to walk. Do not bother with a workout for the day because you will get the perfect leg day workout going around the rink 3 times. LOL! I hit the ice rink like I was Kristi Yamaguchi! HAHA, more like her student in training! Nonetheless, while I have no skills close to Kristi, I had a ball ice skating to celebrate a friend’s birthday! If you are looking for an outdoor activity that is unique and whimsical, ice skating at Fountain Square is for you!

Be a Wax Chandler

If you know anything about me, you know I love candles! I am always trying to find the best candle companies around, plus there is nothing like the holidays with family and nicely scented candles burning! With my love for candles, I had the opportunity to take a candle making class with Manitou Candle Co. (https://www.manitoucandleco.com/). Manitou is located approximately 10 minutes outside of downtown Cincinnati. It is the cutest candle shop that offers candles, stationery, home décor, lifestyle, kitchen and bar, bath and beauty, prints, jewelry, children items, and men’s wear. This is a super cute place to buy that female in your life the perfect gift. They offer 100 scents of premade candles. They also offer candle making classes held right in their studio. The candle class is so much fun and is the perfect holiday activity for yourself or with a friend. I went by myself but there were a few smaller groups of friends (2-3) or mom and daughter duos. The studio and candle making room is super picturesque. The class is 1.5 hours and walks you step-by-step through making two candles. The class is $50. This is a great deal because each 11 oz. candle in the store is $25 therefore you are only paying for the candles themselves, but the experience is free. That is a win in my book because sometimes the best experiences in life are priceless. I choose two scents which were Merry Merry and Vanilla Chai and mixed them together. This was the perfect Christmas candle for me. I name my candle Vanilla Chai Christmas. Shelby was my class teacher, and she was awesome! They also allow you to BYOB! Kind of like paint and sip but be a chandler and sip. What is a chandler you ask? A chandler is someone who handles wax. If you are looking for a fun, more creative holiday activity this one has your name all over it! 

Let the Light Guide You

Let the lights guide you! Every year, Ohio. Find It Here. celebrates holidays in Ohio with a campaign to support the Ohio Holiday Lights Trail. They encourage Ohio’s 88 counties to go all out on holiday themed decorations. From fancy lights to full on displays, this still allows everyone to celebrate and get into the Holiday spirit. One of the festival of lights locations is the Cincinnati Zoo. They host the PNC Festival of Lights. It runs from Nov. 18, 2022-Jan. 8, 2022. This is the perfect activity for families. I went with my husband and two small daughters. It was the best 2-in-1 combination. You get to experience the zoo as well as see all the lights. My oldest daughter loved being able to see some of the animals. While all of the animals are not out on display, they do have a few. We even saw the city’s favorite, Fiona, the hippo. We went mid-afternoon (4:30 pm) to be able to get the full effects of the lights when it got dark. It was perfect! The zoo was lit in a rainbow of colors. It was a great experience and a fun thing to see. If you have children and are looking for a fun-family activity to brighten up your holiday cheer, this one is for you. We also visited Columbus Zoo Wildlights and Light Up Middletown.

Holiday Lunch Date

One of my favorite things to do is go one lunch dates or mid-afternoon dates with my husband. It is the perfect time for us to bond before picking up the kids from daycare. We usually either go to a wine bar or a restaurant we’ve been wanting to try. I had heard that Jeff Ruby’s was doing a holiday lunch, so we decided to go. It was a super chill afternoon. Jeff Ruby’s is normally only open for dinner, but during the holidays they open for lunch. We started with cocktails. My husband had a glass of wine and I had Keegan’s Egg Nog. This Egg Nog cocktail was perfect. Creamy, smooth, and of course spiked. The perfect start to our lunch date. Next, we shared Ruby’s famous side salad, Freddie. It consists of Roma Tomatoes, Applewood Bacon, and Buttermilk Ranch. This classic is simple but delicious. I’m a salmon girl, so I got the Salmon with Gnocchi and my husband got the Fried Chicken Sandwich. Both meals were tasty. As you can tell, we left full. We also had a great time talking over delicious food and drinks! If you are looking for a lunch date idea, check out Jeff Ruby’s during their holiday lunch hours.

Igloos at Vista Rooftop

Who doesn’t love a good rooftop bar? They are fun and cute in the Summer, but in the Fall and Winter they turn into a winter wonderland. The holidays are so magical and heading to a rooftop bar with friends can be such an amazing experience. I know because my girls and I stopped by Vista Rooftop Bar for a fun, holiday festive night out. You may be thinking, “Isn’t it cold?” However, during the colder months, Vista offers 2 igloos that you can rent. The igloos come with heaters and blankets to keep you warm and cozy, and a Bluetooth speaker to help set your musical vibes. You also receive amazing views of the city. The igloos are spacious and can fit up to 10 friends. The Lytle Park had it decorated so pretty, and it felt so festive all night. They even have a cute “snow” machine to help give all the winter vibes. The décor, the igloos, and the “snow” make the perfect picturesque back drop. We even had cute holiday cocktails to sip on while we enjoyed the night. After a few drinks, some snacks, and good laughs, we headed downstairs to the Subito Restaurant for dinner. Talk about a time well spent with the girls!

Details:

* Location: Lytle Park Hotel

* Vista Rooftop Bar at Lytle Park Hotel

* 2 Igloos available for rent

* Can book 2 hours at a time

* Can fit up to 10 people at a time

* Enjoy amazing views of the city

* Has a food and drink minimum

* Monday – Thursday $350 for 2 hrs

* Friday – Saturday $500 for 2 hrs

A Mini Road Trip

I am not sure about you, but my family and I love to take mini road trips to different locations. My husband and I pack up our two daughters and we hit the road. A fun holiday stop is Columbus, OH. Just like Cincinnati, Columbus is also beautiful during the holidays. We love to experience other cities and cultures so taking a road trip is always fun. While my husband and I find things for ourselves to do that are kid friendly we also find a few things that are fun for the girls. During our holiday trip to Columbus, we visited so many places and had a ball. We stopped by Easton’s Grand Illumination, Legoland Discovery Center, Short North Arts District, Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, and the Columbus Museum of Art. This was a fun weekend getaway not far from Cincinnati. If you want to experience the perfect family getaway, Columbus is the place for you. To find out more about our visit to Columbus click the link here.   

Well, this is the end of my holiday activity guide, but now that means it’s time for you to get out and explore the holidays in Ohio! I hope you find something fun for you and your family to do to bring in the holiday cheer. Hopefully, this list of activities brings you so much joy during your holidays! I look forward to seeing what you and your family get out and do. Happy Holidays and Cheers to an amazing New Year!

Welcoming Fall in Ohio with Open Arms!

Summer is nearing its end and it is time for pumpkin spice and everything nice. Fall is an exciting time of year in Ohio and the perfect time to make lasting memories. The weather cools; trees become spectacular shades of red, orange, and yellow; and the taste and aromas of autumn return. I’m back with another partnership with Ohio. Find It Here. This time we are bringing you all the Fall vibes. Fall in Ohio is beautiful and full of fun. I do not know about you, but Fall is one of my favorite seasons. It’s not to cold and it’s not to hot. It’s the perfect weather for making outdoor family memories or doing warm and cozy activities indoors. Fall fun abounds with our activities we plan to share. From events to seasonal flavors and cozy ambience, you’ll find it here!  

Fall Activities

Fall activities are so fun. I think what I enjoy most is being able to create memories with my children and husband all while enjoying the fall flavors like Pumpkin Spice, Caramel Apple, Praline, and many more. My family and I love Apple picking or Fall on the Farm. We also love getting those fall treats such as the Caramel Apple Float.

Amish Country – Have you ever wondered about Amish country, its people, and their way of life? Maybe you wonder do they still really travel by horse and buggy. If this is something you have pondered, I am here to tell you yes, they still travel by horse and buggy and experiencing their environment first-hand is so special. Most are entrepreneurs and create their own life sustainably with a craft they learn at an early age. Did you know that Amish people only go to school through the 8th grade? They make a way of living on an 8th grade education and are successful. They have big families to help with labor whether it be on their farm or running their family business. They generally stay within their sects (or area) and do not travel outside of that area often. Occasionally they will travel to fish, hunt or on vacation, but remember they do not drive. Now you are asking how they get around, well horse and buggy and bikes (both electric and pedal). No, they do not take the horse and buggy for a road trip. It would take 2 hours to go 20 miles. Bikes have become a new way of life for them. They can travel around town faster and more efficiently. What would take 2 hours on horse and buggy, takes 45 minutes on an electric bike.

TIP: Most Amish businesses do not accept credit card so bring cash. While you could explore Amish country on your own, Amish country is huge in Ohio, so where do you begin? I got to explore Amish country through an amazing tour called Troyer’s Amish Tours in Sugarcreek, OH. After you visit Amish Country, drive a short distance, and visit Breitenbach Winery. It’s a cute little winery nestled in the hills of Amish country. The wine is delicious. They are known for their Dandelion wine, make sure to try it.

Also, more information on Amish Country can be found at Amish Country Inviting Region. Click here.  

FUN FACTS:

-Chicken houses hold 25,000 chicken and chicken come in at 8 hrs old from the hatchery

-Amish do not drive, Mennonites do

-Amish can not have a cell phone with a data package or a car

-Amish do not have tvs

-Amish keep up with the news through newspaper

-3 Orders and 11 sects

-Amish do not take pictures of themselves. They do not have family portraits. It is against their religion

-Amish only go to school till 8th grade

-Amish do not vote for people that can dictate life and death on a person (i.e. president, judge, etc.)

-Amish land is expensive (for 5 acres $50,000 an acre)

-Teachers only have an 8th grade education (salary ranges from $1200-$1500 a month)

-Generally Men do not teach due to income level

-Usually single women teach. Once they court, date or get married the women will quit work and focus on their marriage

-20 miles would take you 2 hours on a buggy, and 45 minutes on an e-bike

-$8,000 for a buggy and 125 man hours

-Wheels will last 7 years

-Schrock’s Buggy is the oldest buggy shop on Holmes County

-If you’re getting married, you grow a beard

-One Amish man raises camels for a petting zoo

-They milk camels

-Camels milk is very nutritious

-Largest wood working facility in the state

-Amish are great wood workers

-Wood working is the largest industry in this community

-Most Amish do not wear shoes. They go barefoot because they say shoes are heavy.

-Old race horses are brought to Amish country to be street safe/trained

-Mom and Pop wood working shops are huge

-All Amish kids are not Rumshpringa (roam around and leave the culture for awhile)

Peifer Orchards – Want to try something different this fall? Go apple picking! As they say, it is a first for everything. My family and I went apple picking and it was a fun experience. I had never actually seen so many apples in their growing space in one location. It was a sight to see. My kids loved being able to go up and down the apple tree rows. My youngest favorite part was being able to eat the apples right off of the trees. I am not sure you are supposed to do this but kids will be kids. HAHA! Peifer Orchards is located in Yellow Springs, OH. There is plenty to do in Yellow Springs. Yellow Springs could be the perfect getaway that includes Peifer Orchards, shopping, biking, hiking, and restaurants. Also, I loved that there is an orchard located not far from where we live. What I loved about the orchard is when we arrived, it immediately gave us all the Fall and southern vibes. Pumpkins, a cute country store, gravel road, and an experience I will never forget.

Blooms & Berries’ Fall on the Farm – I don’t know about you, but my family and I love visiting a pumpkin patch in the Fall. It is so fun! There are so many activities for the kids as well as so many fall treats to indulge in. The past two years, we have been making our way to Blooms & Berries’ Fall on the Farm. Fall on the Farm is a family-fun event at Blooms & Berries Farm beginning September 17th through October 31st daily. There are so many fun things to do at the farm such as: hayrides, pumpkin patch, pony rides (only on certain weekends), corn maze, beer garden, sunflower patch (very picturesque), farm animals, play areas, a huge pumpkin balloon bounce, caramel apple float, and so much more. My family and I thoroughly enjoyed ourselves as we went from area to area and all around, soaking in all the crisp Fall air. This is one pumpkin patch you don’t want to miss!

Charming Towns

Have you ever thought, “I wish I could find a gem to visit that is not far from me”, but never thought to look in your own back yard? Ohio has so many charming towns. You must get out, look, and plan an adventure to a gem right next to you. Let’s talk about two charming towns I was able to experience.

Yellowsprings, OH –  Are you looking for an affordable, fun, and outdoor adventurous day in Ohio? If the answer was yes, you are in for something amazing. We recommend taking a mini day trip to Yellowsprings, OH. It is a quick and easy travel destination that is within 100 miles of Cincinnati. It’s perfect for all ages and interest, with biking and hiking trails, tons of shops on the strip, and cafes for a fabulous meal. This will still feel like a mini getaway right in your backyard. This will be a day spent exploring and enjoying the outdoors. Most activities are within walking distance from one another while others are a short drive away. There is surely something for everyone.

To learn more details about my experience in Yellowsprings, OH, click here.

TIP: Places to visit in Yellowsprings OH: Peifer Orchards, Young’s Jersey Dairy, Ye Olde Trail Tavern, The Corner Cone, Biking Trails, The Winds Wine Cellar, Devil Wind Brewing, Flat Rock Spirits/Stillwright’s, Winds Café, Bonadies Glass Studio, Clifton Mill, Caesar Creek Vineyards, and more.

Chillicothe, OH – Have you heard of the town named Chillicothe? If not, I am here to share another gem located right here in OH. Chillicothe is exciting and packed full of history. Chillicothe is a city full of charm. Located along the Scioto River 45 miles south of Columbus. This is the perfect location for a getaway trip within 100 miles of Cincinnati. It is the perfect town to welcome fall. It is that hidden gem that no one ever told you about. It is perfect for all ages, couples, and families. There is something for everyone. Some of the activities include hiking, biking, eating, wineries, Adena Mansion and Gardens, Triple Crown Family Fun Center, Hopewell Culture Park, and Scioto Park.

TIP: The Hopewell locations are nominated for a UNESCO World Heritage recognition which is a big deal! Make sure to check out any of the Hopewell Locations, and be a part of history!

To learn more about a fun filled day in Chillicothe, OH, click here.

Coffee Shops in the Fall

Fall is almost here! How many of you have been waiting for Fall weather, Pumpkin Spice Lattes, sweaters, chill cool nights, and just anything that screams Fall? One thing that screams Fall to me is coffee shops. While you can visit a coffee shop year-round, they are most vibrant in the fall when they come out with their fall and winter flavorings. Can you agree? Plus, meeting up at a coffee shop is a corner stone of modern American life.  Business meetings, book clubs, and first dates all pair well with a cup of coffee. 

You all may know Pursuit of Delights as a food and travel blog, which it is. However, this year for Fall I wanted to do something different. I always feature different food places to stop by, but have you ever thought about coffee shops? I thought it would be fun to explore different coffee shops throughout OH and share what they have to offer as well as some of their fall flavors.

R Coffee Corner – R Coffee is located in Port Clinton, OH. While the family and I took a weekend trip up to Sandusky, this is one of the coffee shops we stopped at. We were on the go exploring Sandusky and its surrounding cities. We did not have much time for a sit-down breakfast, so stopping by coffee shops to fuel our mornings was a thing. This location also has a cute outdoor patio that has a water area right in front. It is perfect for sunny, cool Fall days to sit outside and enjoy a cup of coffee. R Coffee has a ton of flavors and coffee drinks to choose from. I tried the Caramel Apple Latte (hot). This was pretty good and certainly gave me Fall vibes. Think a Candy Apple but in Latte form.

Victory Coffee Company – Victory Coffee Company is located in Lakeside Marblehead, OH. Lakeside Marblehead is a small town, located not far from Sandusky. While on our way to visit Marblehead Lighthouse, we passed by Victory Coffee. It was cute and right off the road we were traveling on, so I told my husband to turn around. Sometimes the cutest, smallest places are a charm. From this location, I tried their Banana Foster Frappe and a Chocolate Chip Cookie. I’m a latte or frappe kind of girl. This flavor was fun! I had never had a Banana flavored frappe before. It gave the warm Banana Foster vibes but was cold. It was unique and I enjoyed it. It was not to banana-y. The caramel also played a part in adding sweetness to the slight tanginess of banana flavor. 

Gathering Grounds – Gathering Grounds is located in Huron, OH. This location is small and has indoor seating. The drive through line that seemed to be what most everyone did. We also did the drive through line. This day it was raining a little and we did not want to get out of the car. Plus, drive throughs are always convenient. I am a latte kind of girl, but an iced latte that is. Occasionally, I will get a latte warm, but I prefer them iced. Yes, even in the winter, but the winter is when I will have one every now and then hot. I tried the Caramel Pecan Iced Latte with oat milk and extra syrup. It was very good. It tasted exactly like caramel pecan. It had sweet and nutty flavors. It is perfect for the fall.

Roaming Goat Coffee – Roaming Goat is located in Columbus, OH. This location is cute and gives rustic vibes. I walked in and was greeted by the barista who was serving someone else but welcomed me with a hello and smile. I glanced at their menu and saw a separate menu with the flavor of the month. I was sold and knew what I was getting. I tried the Horchata Milkshake Latte iced with oat milk. I absolutely love the actual Horchata drink. The actual drink is served cold so iced was perfect. This latte was fun and would be a fun flavor to try for the fall.

Parable, Parable – Parable, Parable is located in Columbus, OH. This was one of my favorite coffee shop stops! I loved the coffee, ambience, and décor of this shop. Everything was such a vibe! The moment I opened the doors and walked in; I was in awe. The staff was also very nice and patient as I decided what I wanted. The latte art was even fancy, clean, and popped! Talk about cute. I even liked that the flavors were fun. While I did not have a “Fall” flavor at this location, I could appreciate the uniqueness of the flavors. I had the Flower Power Latte and Guava Matcha Latte. I tried both hot. The Flower Power Latte consisted of housemade orange blossom and cardamom syrup blended with their house expresso and your choice of milk. The Guava Matcha Latte consisted of their housemade guava panela caramel in a matcha latte, think strawberry-lime creamsicle. Both flavors were delicious and fun!

Reza – Reza is located in Downtown Dayton, OH. Reza looks small from the outside but when you enter its like WOWWWW! It is cute and the décor is fun! I love how they have an area in the back stacked up with coffee beans in their bags. It was picturesque so I took a few photos :p I had the Pumpkin Spice Latte iced with oat milk. I also tried their Spinach and Feta Croissant and Yogurt Parfait. Of course, you can never go wrong with PSL. It’s the King of all Fall flavors. LOL! The food items were good. Parfaits are one of my go-to breakfast items when on the go.

Pettibone Coffee – Pettibone is located in Riverside, OH. Pettibone is a coffee shop that sits right off the main road. It is pretty big from the outside compared to most coffee shops. This was another one of favorite coffee shops while on my coffee stop journey. I loved the inside of this coffee shop. I loved how spacious but cozy it was. I loved the light it let in. I also really enjoyed my drink, The Botanist. They offer your normal coffee drinks, but they also offer unique ones as well. Being the foodie I am, I went for one of the more unique drinks. It was so pretty! It even came with a smoke bubble on top. I grabbed a coffee cake to go with it and it was the perfect start to my morning. The Botanist was made up of Ground Control Espresso, Jasmine Tea – Concentrate, Oat Milk, Vanilla, Mint Leaves Jasmine Mist, Citrus Smoke Bubble and served cold. I enjoyed this drink way more than I thought I would. I drank it fast. LOL! Again, they have unique flavors, so I couldn’t leave without trying the Whiskey Caramel Latte iced. I got this to-go. It was fun and certainly perfect for the fall. It had light notes of whiskey and caramel flavor. A little nutty.

Red Tree Gallery & Coffee Shop – Red Tree is located in Cincinnati, OH. Located in the neighborhood of Oakley, Red Tree is in walking distance of many of shops and restaurants. I stopped by with my daughter one morning and we had a mom-daughter coffee date. Yes, my 6-year-old loves iced lattes just as much as I do. Haha! A latte for her and a latte for me. This was fun! I tried their Matcha Pistachio Latte hot. This latte was very good! I loved the flavor combination it had. It was slightly nutty, had a hint of spice, but still gave a well balanced matcha flavor. They aced this flavor! I had it with a Parmesan Mushroom Quiche. The hot latte and quiche went perfectly together!

Mom n’ ‘Em Coffee Mom n’ ‘Em is located in Cincinnati, OH. Mom n’ ‘Em just opened their second location, and I had the pleasure to stop by. It’s a cute building with inside and outdoor patio seating. The outdoor patio is vibrant and welcoming. It’s the perfect place to have a morning cup of coffee over a meeting or just for a meet up. I sat at this cute window seat bar right off of the kitchen. I had the Honey Latte hot with a French Onion Danish. I was feeling warm and savory this morning! LOL! The latte was very simple. I loved the French Onion Danish as it was a sweet onion jam baked into a Danish topped with Parmesan Cheese. Talk about a win for breakfast!

Daylily – Daylily is located in Cincinnati, OH. Daylily is one of Cincy’s newest coffee shops, deli, and bodega. Brought to us by Chef Jose Salazar and Deeper Roots Coffee. This is a fun, cutesy coffee shop that serves coffee, breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I just had to stop by because Chef Jose is a beast in the culinary world, and Deeper Roots has coffee on lock! ;P I assumed this was a match made in foodie heaven, and I was totally right about that! This was another one of my favorite coffee shops. I had the Honey Bear Latte, Ham, Egg & Cheese Breakfast Bagel, and a Cardamom Pastry. Everything was AMAZIING! Ill be honest, this was probably the best hot latte I have had. The flavor was so simple and consisted of local honey and cinnamon but was soooo good and well executed! I loved it! What I appreciated about the breakfast bagel was it was a true, homemade breakfast bagel. Talk about cheesy in addition to scrambled eggs made fresh on a freshly baked bagel with ham. MMM MMM, GOOD! I thoroughly enjoyed this breakfast sandwich! The latte and sandwich were both delicious! I will be coming back here for sure!

I truly hope you enjoyed this coffee journey as much as I did! I truly love Fall and all it has to offer!

While summer is coming to an end, that does not mean the fun or indulging must stop. Welcome Fall with open arms and embrace another season and what all of Fall has to offer. Experience Fall in many of Ohio’s different cities. There are a ton of memories waiting to be created and a lot of Fall treats waiting to be eaten. Enjoy this season and get out and explore!

Summer Memories in Ohio

Hello everyone and HELLLOO Summer! Summer has officially begun, and it is a hot one! Summer means getting out and exploring all that Ohio has to offer. What better way to explore Ohio than with another partnership with Ohio. Find It Here. If you were following the blog for the past two years, you likely saw my partnership with them which took me on foodie tours, outdoor adventures, to charming towns, and provided a time well spent creating memories with my family. Together, with Ohio. Find It Here, I have some fun things lined up for the remainder of 2022 and the beginning of 2023. Our first topic for exploring Ohio is Summer Memories. Summers in Ohio are warm and perfect to get out and spend time with loved ones and friends. There is so much to do and explore, and so many great inviting regions to visit. Ohio is great for exploring wineries, parks, outdoor adventures, sports games, amusement parks, rooftop bars, museums, food, or simply enjoying a staycation in your own city. There’s something for everyone! Experiences to take in with your friends, your family, or flying solo.   

Wineries

WINNNNEEE! Let’s start off with talking about wine! I mean who doesn’t love wine?! Wineries are amazing and provide a way to try different types of wines and the makers styles on classic versions of wine. I am a girl who loves her wine, ANNNDD June is Ohio Wine Month so a trip to Wine Country is right up your alley! There are so many wineries in the state of Ohio that you can explore. Each winery specializes in something different or unique to them. Whether it’s the perfect glass of red or white, or a crisp blend, you will surely find something no matter what winery you visit.

Vinoklet Winery – Vinoklet Winery is the only working winery in Hamilton County Ohio. It is located in Colerain Township in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is home to 12 award-winning wines and is proud to represent the Greater Cincinnati area in local and regional wine competitions. Ohhh, did I mention the size is quite huge. You enter through the restaurant and the vineyards and winery are out back. It is gorgeous! It also overlooks a huge pond. Its location and scenery is perfect for weddings or other celebratory events. They also offer good wine and food.  They have a nice selection of dry and sweet wines to choose from. If you are unsure of what to get, I recommend starting with a tasting. That is what I did. The tasting I did consisted of 12 different wines each 1-oz, white and red wines, starting with dry and progressing to sweet. Don’t fill up on wine with an empty stomach. They also have a full menu that you can choose from various appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and dessert. This was a super cute winery that is great for a good date night or catching up with friends. I was happy to visit!

Buckeye Lake Winery – This little winery is for sure a hidden gem in Thornville, OH. It’s located on a lakefront. How cool is that? I would have never known this winery was here, but that’s what happens when you get out and explore. ; ) The views, food, and wine are amazing! This winery does make and bottle their own wine. I tried about 5-6 different wines. One of my favorite wines I tried was the Sweet Lake Views. They also have delicious food. You can never go wrong with a cheese plate. I also tried their Fried Green Beans and their Fig & Gorgonzola Flatbread. Want some good wine with views of a lake, this is the winery for you!

Henke Winery – Henke Winery is a cool, small winery located in Cincinnati’s Westwood neighborhood. Henke is an Urban Winery with many accolades around the world. If you are not familiar with an Urban Winery, it is a winery that does not grow their own grapes. However, they do every other part of the wine making process at their facility. They have their grapes shipped in from different parts of the world, depending on their preference of grape growers and the wine they want to make. I am a sweet wine drinker, so I tried their Cellar Blush. They also have small plates to pair with your wine. Try a charcuterie plate or their famous Air-Fried Cheese. Their Air-Fried Cheese tasted like the perfect homemade cheese stick. It is a sharp Vermont White Cheddar in a crunchy herb jacket. The crust was seasoned and fried perfectly! It also came with some berry compote to sweeten things up a bite. Grab a friend or two and don’t be cheesy and miss out on this Urban Winery!

Breitenbach Winery – Breitenbach Winery is a cute winery nestled among the rolling hills of Ohio’s Amish countryside. Breitenbach produces an array of extensive award-winning grape, fresh fruit, and berry wines, and what they are most known for, Dandelion wine. They produce 40 varieties of grape and fruit wines resulting in about 150,000 gallons. WOOOOW! That’s a lot of wine, but hey someone must make it for us wine lovers. They have plenty of flavors to choose from and man did I indulge. They also have a great tasting offer. You can sample 4 wines for $1.00. Yes, you read that correct! I ended up sampling 12 wines. I also bought a small cheese plate to enjoy with my wine. Also, make sure to try the Dandelion wine. It is unique! By the time wine tasting ended, I left with 5 bottles of wine and 2 candles. What can I say, I am a girl who loves her wine and candles! I highly encourage experiencing Amish country and then relaxing at Breitenbach Winery! The is the perfect day trip.

Na zdravie – Located about 25minutes outside of Chillicothe, Na zdravie is located on 10 acres of land with vineyards rolling across hills. This winery had a very homely, comfort feel. I decided to try their wine flight. It was perfect! A flight includes 6 1-ounce wine samplings for the price of $5.72. You cannot bet that. I had the sweet wine flight.

I was pleasantly pleased with all these different wineries located within my region and how beautiful their properties were. Although there are only a few days left in June, I hope that you will visit one of the 300 wineries to celebrate Ohio Wine month. I highly recommend the four I have shared above, but also encourage you to try others. I am excited about getting to visit new wineries this summer. I plan to stop by one of these wineries in the Ohio region – Kosicek Vineyards, Ferrante Winery, Cask 307, Laurentina Vineyard, Old Firehouse Winery or even South River Winery. The breezes off Lake Erie and the rich soil left behind by the glaciers that carved out the Great Lakes make Ohio’s Wine Country prime for grape growing. Pull up a chair and enjoy tastings, see the sights and explore what makes this distinct region so special.

Parks

Parks are so fun, especially in the summer. Parks can offer different experiences whether it’s walking around outside and exploring nature or grabbing a blanket and sitting in the park. My family and I love to get out and explore different parks, enjoy the interactions of nature and its beauty, or simple sit in the park and enjoy ice cream and people watch.

Washington Park – This park is huge and spacious and one of the best parks in Cincinnati for events, festivals, flea markets, or just relaxing. This park is perfect for various reasons. It’s a great way to just sit and relax in the grass, it has regular festivals taking place, it has live music, it’s a great place to have a good drink and food, and it even has a playground and water area for the kids or ADULT kids! LOL, have fun and enjoy summer!

Ziegler Park – If you are looking for a kid friendly park, this is it! Ziegler Park is awesome for the kiddos and families. It has a huge playground, nearby basketball courts, and a pool! A pool is the best way to beat the heat other than ice cream! LOL! There is a small fee that comes with the pool, but it is a fun summer activity for kids. They also offer swim lessons and adult swim times.

Smale Park – I love fresh flowers and the pops of color they give! Smale Park is gorgeous and perfect for beautiful views and pops of color from the blooming flowers. The flowers start to bloom in the Spring and last throughout most of fall. This is also an activity park that you will always see people out and about. You can ride bikes, play on the playground, or hop on a boat for a nice afternoon voyage. The Ohio River and bridges are right in view which makes for such an awesome site.

Wegerzyn Gardens – The Wegerzyn Garden is a metropark in Dayton. You will be wowed by its beauty. A hidden gem?! Very much so! The next time you find yourself in the area, certainly get out and explore this gem of a garden. This garden is perfect for a summer afternoon stroll. The flowers are in full bloom and the garden turns into what we will call a magical place. It certainly offers the most picturesque backdrop. The garden is surrounded by the Stillwater River Trail. Wegerzyn Garden also has a cool, exploration park for kids called the Children’s Discovery Garden. Wegerzyn Gardens is beautiful and packed with fun and offers the perfect family time. 

Cox Arboretum Metro Park – Cox Arboretum is another metropark in Dayton. Like its counterpart, Wegerzyn Gardens, Cox too provides the beauty of nature. Here is a place for you to come and connect with nature. Discover the peacefulness nature, its trees and shrubs thoughtfully placed to capture your imagination and take you to a place of serenity. My family and I enjoyed a nice stroll admiring all that Cox Park has to offer. We spent a lot of time at the pond at the entrance. It had all the “fishys” and turtles. Go get out and explore Cox Park and enjoy a relaxing family adventure.

Topiary Park – Topiary Park is a beautiful, public park and garden located in downtown Columbus and is officially known as the Topiary Garden at Old Deaf School Park. It is such a cool place! When I visited, I originally thought there were just cool figures cut into the trees, but what they actually depict are figures from Georges Seurat‘s 1884 painting, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte. It is the only park based entirely on a painting. They are life-sized shapes which makes it really fun to take pictures with. I really enjoyed pulling up the actual image and picking out which topiary matched to each part of the picture.

Hopewell Culture Park – I enjoyed the fresh air, while walking around learning about the broad network of beliefs and practices among different Native American groups over a large portion of eastern North America. The culture is characterized by the construction of enclosures made of earthen walls, often built-in geometric patterns, and mounds. Below you can see me standing next to the Mica Splendor sign with the mounds behind me. It was a cool experience and a good way to learn about Native American culture. 

These parks all lend something different to Ohio, but there are tons more to see. Also, visit Hocking Hills State Park, Sulphur Springs, Buckeye Lake State Park, Lakewood Park and many more.

Outdoor Adventures

The great outdoors! There is so much to see when it comes to exploring outdoors. How do you do the outdoors? Is it a good patio with fancy drinks, an outdoor mural, or maybe a good ole breath of fresh air outside hiking or a walk in the park! Let’s explore some different outdoor activities.

Findlay Market – Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market that has more than 50 full-time merchants. The market is open year-round Tuesday-Sunday and attracts over a MILLION visitors a year! There is such a community feel every time I visit. It can be a very cool, chill place and also be very crazy, busy on other days, so you get the best of both worlds. There is typically live music being played, people drinking and eating, and lots of shopping! From fresh produce, to restaurants, to customizable cuts of meat, to spices, to plants, to jewelry…Findlay is ready to meet your needs.

Pedal Wagon Cincinnati – Experience Cincinnati’s colorful side through the beautiful mural masterpieces! Whether you’re a local looking for a unique way to explore the art that Cincy has to offer, or a out-of-towner visiting for the first time, Pedal Wagon Cincinnati’s Mural Tour makes for a fun and creative day! This is the perfect insider to Over-the-Rhine’s (OTR) most known murals. What is also really cool is that Pedal Wagon Cincinnati gives back. Ten percent of all proceeds of this our go to ArtWorks, an award-winning non-profit arts organization that empowers and inspires the creative community. I took this tour and loved exploring the city through its creative art. Each mural told a story and gave a piece of the city in its own unique way. Grab your friends and pedal your way through Cincinnati’s OTR neighborhood and tap into your creative side. 

East Town Center – Shopping is an activity, right? Hmmmm Of course it is!! And it just happens to be one of our favorite ones! If you also enjoy shopping, Easton in Columbus is absolutely the place to be. It is one of the largest outdoor shopping centers in all of Ohio. If you’re looking for something specific, they probably have it. That can range from items for kids, items for the home, shoes and so so much more! But the thing is, they are not just for shopping. There are quite a few delicious restaurants there, ranging from grab and go to high-end sit-down options.

Cincinnati Zoo – Cincinnati’s Zoo is one of the nation’s top-rated zoos. They have tons of animals to see and watch roam around their habitats. My kids love coming to the zoo and pointing out the animals they are learning about in school. It is also very fun to see when the animals welcome their babies. While speaking of animals we cannot forgot the zoo’s most beloved and famous hippo, Fiona. She is a site to see and is no longer a baby! She has grown, and guess what?! She is getting a little sibling coming in the near future. How exciting! Her mother is expecting another BIG bundle of joy! LOL! There are also other activities to do at the zoo like encounters, train rides, carousels, and much more. You certainly don’t want to miss out on the zoo experience. This is a great family experience. 

Young’s Jersey Dairy – Take a visit to Young’s Jersey Dairy located in Yellow Springs, OH. It is also about 10 minutes away from the main strip in Yellow Springs filled with shopping, outdoor activities (bike riding, hiking, and more), and restaurants. I know taking the kids to a dairy may sound strange, but I am here to tell you there is a lot more fun than the name suggest. I took my 5-year-old daughter for a mommy and me day. We both had a lot of fun! The farm offers their Dairy Store, Two Miniature Golf Courses, Batting Cages, Covered and natural grass driving range, Moovers & Shakers (a fun barrel ride around the farm), and so much more. Additionally, aside from their milk and cheese, Young’s Dairy is known for their fresh ice cream made on their site.

50 West Brewery – Need a brew or want to have some outdoor fun? Either way, 50 West has you covered. Located on US 50 heading west into the city of Cincinnati. This brewery is huge with lots to do, eat and drink! It is the perfect summer activity for outdoors adventures as well as outdoors sports. They have a cycling trail, volleyball, and so much more. Not only do they have outdoor activities, but they also even have food and drinks to keep you fueled. They are known for their burgers and fries. After you’ve burned some carbs indulging in the outdoor activities, make sure to grab a burger and fries. 50 West is giving all the vibes with food, drinks, and outdoor fun!

While these are some pretty, cool outdoor adventures, there is always something taking place in Ohio. I am looking forward to experiencing so many more outdoor adventures with my family. A few additional stops are Mahoning River Water Trail, Ohio State Fair, Ohio’s Nature Trails, and more.

Another great outdoor place to visit is Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. It is also nationally ranked and accredited. There are tons to see and do and I heard the Aquarium is amazing.

Sporting Events

One thing you must know about Ohioans is, we love our sports! I mean when you live in a state with four major teams (Cincinnati Bengals, Cincinnati Red, Cleveland Browns, and Cleveland Cavaliers) how could you not be a sports fan?!

Red’s Game – Take me out to the ball game… Who doesn’t love a good ole Cincinnati Reds Game? Baseball games can be a lot of fun although they are long. It is fun to watch the players, listen to the crowd, eat baseball food and enjoy the atmosphere. Whether you’re waiting to catch a ball in the stands or fellowshipping with friends and family, a baseball game is certainly one for the books! It’s always fun to hear and watch the fireworks at the end of the game.

Bengals Game – Everyone loves a good football game! It’s something about being in a packed stadium, yelling with tons of other fans cheering on the home team, and watching the players create a win! Football games are fun, exciting, and intense. Whether you are in the stands or in a box, you can’t deny the fun exhilarating atmosphere.

Whether you’re a Cincinnati fan or a Cleveland fan, sports games are always an amazing and fun time!

Amusement Parks

Amusement parks are such a fun time! Whether you like thrill seeking rides or cool, calm and collective rides, they always have something for everyone. Ohio has two major theme parks which are Cedar Point and King’s Island.

Cedar Point – Have you been to an amusement park this year? If not, you must visit Ohio’s Cedar Point. Cedar Point is located in Sandusky, OH, right outside of Cleveland. If an adrenaline rush and need for speed is your thing, you will certainly find it here. They are known as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World, with jaw dropping drops on certain rides. Talk about a fun time and an amazing experience. They have your traditional rides like the Ferris Wheel, Loopty Loop Rides, Water Rides, and Kid’s Rides. Then there are the rides that they are most known for like Top Thrill Dragster, GateKeeper, Millennium Force, and more. This park is full of rides with adventure, twist, and turns. My husband and I went for a weekend on a couple’s date, and it was fun.

King’s Island – King’s Island is located in Cincinnati and has become a family go-to yearly. My husband and I have been a few times before we had kids. Now that we have two little ones, we take them there to have fun during the summer. There is always a new ride or encounter being added every some many years. It keeps things interesting. If rides are not your thing, they have other things to do like eat park food, play games or walk around and explore. They also have a water park section that can be fun and help cool your summer down.

Rooftop Bars

Drinks plus views, yes please! Most people love a good rooftop bar. It’s something so satisfying about having drinks with friends or family with perfect views overlooking a city.

Rhinegeist – The view of Cincinnati is amazing from the rooftop of Rhinegeist. Rhinegeist is such a cool and chill vibe. It certainly makes a great fun night out. If you catch a sunset on the comfy couches, you’ll be in for a treat. Grab some friends, grab a beer and enjoy an awesome experience.

Lytle Park – Lytle Park has been around for about 2 years now and offers some amazing views of the city. You get to see the Ohio River, bridges, and stadiums. It is a really nice view at night. I went with my husband and our friend at night and it was awesome. They offer light bites and fun cocktails. The vibe is very cool and chill.

21C Hotel – While the 21C Hotel is known for their amazing hotel and museum, did you know they also have a rooftop bar? It is smaller but cozy and fun. It’s a nice experience with friends and family. They have a variety of fun cocktails to choose from. This is certainly a good spot for a summer evening. A great way to relax and unwind.

The Views at Shire Garden – Let me start by saying brunch is life! My family and I love a good brunch especially one with a good view. Whether you are enjoying brunch or the bar, The Views at Shire Garden overlooking the city of Cincinnati are amazing. The rooftop is open year-round. However, from November-March (only) they offer rooftop igloo and terrace greenhouse seating. Each igloo or terrace is enclosed and has a heater. It was a lot of fun and made for a personal, cozy family experience.  

BrewDog Cincinnati – BrewDog Cincy is a fun bar! It is HUGE on the inside and offers a cool rooftop bar. They offer beer, ciders and cocktails with plenty of small bites to go with your drink. I went with my husband for a fun night out. We enjoyed some time inside in the bar and moved upstairs to the rooftop for a few minutes to experience some views outside. You get a view of the casino and other downtown areas. It’s certainly a good time.

VASO – Vaso is located in Dublin, OH on top of the Marriott Hotel. Its views of Dublin and the shopping area it is located in are nice. Their rooftop bar is a fun night out. They offer fun cocktails and wine. I went with my husband and kids, and we enjoyed an afternoon out. They also serve food if you are feeling hungry.

Museums

Where are the history lovers at?! Museums are such a cool way to learn about history and the times that came before us. If you want to spark your inner nerd, I have some museums just for you. Let’s take a look!

Loveland Castle Museum – Plan a visit to Loveland Castle Museum located in Loveland, OH. The castle is filled with history about Sir Harry and the KOGT (Knights of the Golden Trail). I found it very interesting to learn we had a castle right here in the Cincinnati, OH area. When I hear the word castle, I offer times think of large castles such as Buckingham Palace. I do not think of smaller castles with a great foundation behind them. I was so happy to hear of a castle here in Ohio and it made me rethink of my appreciation of what is in my own back yard. I had to go check it out.

Duke Energy Children’s Museum – A cool place for kids and adults right here in the Queen City. What I found unique about the atmosphere and look of the museum, was that is resembles the New York Train Station. This is a great way for kids and families to get out and explore together. The vision of the Cincinnati Museum Center is to bring understanding of their past, present, and future by providing world-class learning experiences enjoyable for children and adults, and they do just that! My family and I visited the Children’s Museum and had a blast. You will learn about dinosaurs, the evolution of technology, Cincinnati’s history, and so much more. They also have a cool OMNIMAX Theater.

National Veterans Memorial and Museum – Located in Columbus, OH, this museum is sure to give you another level of respect for the men and women that serve(d) our country. It is well put together, organized, and teaches you a lot about what a veteran may experience during his or her time in the military. It is so unique! I enjoyed my time learning about the process a veteran takes from enlisting to retirement or sadly even a lot of times death, listening to stories given by veterans, and learning history through a cool timeline wall. This museum is truly a wonderful experience as well as an awesome way to pay homage to the men and women that took an oath to protect and serve the United States of America.

Adena Mansion and Gardens – Did you know that Chillicothe is Ohio’s First Capital? This is pretty cool! Also, Thomas Worthington served as the sixth Governor of Ohio. Adena was the house that Governor Worthington and his wife, Eleanor built just outside of Chillicothe. I visited Adena and the Gardens. I walked the grounds of the mansion and garden. The property is huge. I entered through the visitor center where there is a mini museum loaded with tons of history about Adena. It was interesting to learn and visit such a historical site. This is certainly a history lover’s dream. The garden is still in use and veggies are harvested from the garden every day. In the visitor center they had a cart of fresh veggies that could be taken in exchange for a donation. If you are a history bug, this is the place for you.

While I have shared a few museums that I have visited, there is so much history in Ohio to be learned. I am so excited to get out and tap into my history bug side. Grab some friends and family and experience Ohio’s history. Some additional stops can include Children’s Museum of Findlay, Akron Children’s Museum, COSI in Columbus, The Works in Newark, Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Lake Erie Science & Nature Museum, Armstrong Air & Space Museum, The Ohio State Reformatory, Marblehead Lighthouse and many others.

Staycation

Sometimes we are so busy in our life’s everyday hustle and bustle that we often forgot to just look around us. While there are plenty of places to have a staycation, one of my favs is the 21 C Hotel. As you may recall, I mentioned it had a nice rooftop bar in the rooftop bar section of this blog. However, now we are going to talk a little about what a 21 c experience is like.

If you’re unfamiliar with 21c Museum Hotel, they are a contemporary art museum and boutique hotel chain that originated in Louisville. Since opening in 2006, they have expanded to 7 additional locations in different states- with more coming soon! They have won many awards as the top hotel in America and named in the top 10 in the world by some! Their rooms are nice and spacious. A fun thing to look out for: In the shower, there are body parts carved into the tile. As mentioned, the hotel is artsy! Another fun trend you’ll notice is the iconic penguin. Every location has them throughout the establishment, but each in a different color. I have visited the art museum that’s located on the first floor of the hotel.  Each location has their own museum that is open 24 hours a day and is free of charge. Remember I told you they had a rooftop terrace, make sure you check it out during your next stay. It is great for happy hour. They offer these cool slushie drinks with a variety of flavors. This is perfect and refreshing for the summer. They also have an amazing spa with tons of different treatments. After you’ve explored the rooms, museum and rooftop terrace, they have an amazing restaurant downstairs called Metropole. Metropole is a modern spin on French and Italian cooking done by the Executive Chef, Vanessa Miller, and her team. Metropole’s food is amazing and the menu changes seasonally to always provide the freshest ingredients. While this is a very amazing experience in a nutshell, you can experience the full bells and whistles 21 c has to offer by booking your next weekend staycation right in the heart of Cincinnati. Relax and stay awhile! 

Food

Now this is a food and travel blog, we can’t talk about all the activities and not share any food recommendations. I’m sure by now after all this reading, you have worked up an appetite. Like activities to do, Ohio has so many food places to choose from. I will share a few of my faves here.

Metropole – a modern spin on classic French and Italian cooking.  Focused on local and seasonal offerings, the menu at Metropole is constantly changing to provide the best and freshest ingredients to each meal. I have dined at Metropole a few times and it is always delicious. It is good for date nights as well as family dinner outings.

Boomtown Biscuits – A contemporary take on classic American frontier food. Boomtown biscuits, hence the name, is known for their delicious homemade biscuits. They offer an array of comfort food dishes like Shrimp & Grits, Meatloaf, and many of dishes to include their homemade biscuits. I have dined here for their brunch and dinner, and both are good. You will leave full and happy!

Lucius Q – You can’t have summer without some banging BBQ! Lucius Q is serving up some delicious BBQ right here in Cincinnati’s Pendleton neighborhood. Their BBQ joint is welcoming and inviting. It is pretty big and seats plenty of people. They offer live music on different nights. They also have a spacious outdoor patio for when you want the real summer experience, BBQ + summer heat! I have tried many of items from Lucius Q’s such as their pork, chicken, wings, sandwiches, smoked turkey, greens, red beans & rice, mac & cheese, baked beans, and more. Everything is flavorful and delicious. Oh, did I mention they smoke all of their meat on site. YUMMM! This is a good one and you don’t want to miss out.

Graeter’s – You cannot live or visit Cincinnati, and not have the hometown ice cream, Graeters. Graeter’s was started by Louis C. Graeter back in 1870, and they have been making amazing ice cream ever since. Their ice cream is creamy but smooth and comes in a variety of flavors. My family’s favorite is Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Cookies n’ Cream, Chocolate, and Strawberry. Their ice cream tastes like it’s made with love in every bite. We come here very often in the spring and summer, and it has become a family favorite.

Jeni’s Ice Cream – This is hands down my favorite ice cream ever! Jeni’s has worked to perfect her ice cream for years and she has done just that. It is delicious, creamy, smooth, and her flavors are unique and fun. While I am a Cincy girl, I love this Columbus based ice cream shop. While it was started in Columbus, Jeni’s has since branched out to states all over the US. I have some exciting news!!!!! If you live in Cincy, Jeni’s is coming to Cincy soon!! WHOOOO HOOOOO! I saw this information last week and it absolutely made my night! I can’t wait! My favorite flavors of hers is Ooeey Gooey Butter Cake and Strawberry.

Roost – Modern Italian, it’s as simple as that! Located in Dayton, OH, Roost is serving up their modern twist on classic Italian dishes. I loved Roost and the food is amazing. While they have indoor seating, they also have an awesome outdoor courtyard right in front of the restaurant. We choose to eat outside and enjoy the weather. We had Bolognese, watermelon salad, side salads, and lamb chops. Very tasty!

Sueno – Sueno is serving up some yummy Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. I tried Sueno for Valentine’s Day and the food and atmosphere was good. It is a good spot for a date night or night out with friends. The dimly lite restaurant has a nice size bar and restaurant. Sueno is a tapa style restaurant. This means small plates to share with the table. I went with my husband and kids. We ordered different menu items and shared them all. They also have some good cocktails.

Hot Chicken Takeover – Started in Columbus, Hot Chicken Takeover is bringing the Nashville classic, Hot Chicken, to the Midwest. I love Hot Chicken Takeover and sometimes my family and I drive 2-hours just to come and eat here and drive back home. Yes, its that good. They season their chicken well, fry it to the perfect golden brown, and then drudge it in hot chicken spices. You can pick your heat and the type of meat you want (i.e. thighs, drumsticks, wings, boneless, and more). The chicken meals come with their homemade ranch sauce which is amazing, and two sides. They also have sweet tea and banana pudding. This is certainly Midwest meets the South. If you want a taste of Hot Chicken, then this is certainly the place to come.

Fox in the Snow – Fox in the Snow is a one bomb bakery! Every time I come to Columbus; I always make it a point to stop by. Their pastries are so delicious, flakey, and buttery. My faves are the Strawberry Diamonds and the Blueberry Galette. They are known for their Buttermilk Biscuits, which are also amazing! If you are a pastry/sweets lover like me, Fox in the Snow is calling your name.

While these are some of my favorites in our region get out and be a foodie while you explore some of Ohio’s cool locations. Whether you are visiting a winery, museum, park, outdoor activities, sporting event, amusement park, or a staycation, there is a great restaurant within miles of your destination.

Summer is just beginning, there is so much to see and do. Ohio has so much to offer, and I love being able to explore such a fun midwestern state. If you have never been to Ohio, put it on your bucket list to come and visit. This guide along with many other locations can provide such a fun and amazing summer. There are tons of little gems waiting to be discovered. Make those summer bucket list a reality. Whatever you have been meaning to do this summer, now is the time! Grab those friends or family and seize the day! I hope you have an amazing summer soaking up every minute of fun!

Exploring Springfield, OH!

Happy New Year everyone!!! We are so excited for all that 2022 has in store. To start the year, we are here with a fresh new blog post for you! At the end of 2021, Tiff D. and the hubby partnered with Greater Springfield in Ohio for a full day and a half of activities. Lucky for us, we visited during “Holidays in the City” which is a 5 week celebration with tons of fun activities. And for you holiday lovers, Christmas and New Year’s Eve may have passed, but it continues through 1/7/22! Let me just say, we had a blast!! But before we get to the deets on what all we did, let me share a bit about Springfield.

Springfield, also known as “Champion City” is a smaller city located in between the suburbs of greater Dayton and Columbus. It was founded in 1801 with the original growth stimulated by the construction of the national railroad which went through the area. There is deep cultural history here that comes from the booming businesses in the 1900s, financial industries and racial development. Right now, the area continues to be revitalized, which is exciting to see!

Fun fact: My brother is an alum of Wittenberg University which is a Liberal Arts college located in the city.

Ok…now to the activities!

We arrived early in the day and kicked things off by visiting Champion City Guide & Supply – This is a cool shop that has great apparel. They have sweatshirts, t-shirts, pants, mugs, hats, and much more. If you want to ‘rep your city’ with heritage apparel or buy local artisan goods, this is the place to visit first. They are also a Visitor’s Center, as they are partnered with the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau. It gave us a feel for everyone’s true love for Springfield, which was apparent throughout the entire store.

Time to fuel up! Our next step was Winans Chocolates + Coffee. What I love about this Ohio based company is they have a nice appreciation for great quality and community. As their website says, they “develop products that are authentic to our history and relevant to the national culinary fabric and its continued development” and they “maintain appealing spaces where all members of the community can gather and feel at home”. I certainly felt this comfort from the moment I walked in and tasted the quality right away. We opted for chai lattes with a shot of espresso (dirty chai) and a pump of caramel. Deliciousss! It was exactly what we needed to get our day jumpstarted. If it weren’t so early, we would’ve dove right into all of their handcrafted chocolates because as they say, coffee and chocolate fit together like a glove! Having had their chocolates at another location before, we opted for their blueberry muffin which is just as tasty. Next time, I plan to leave with a huge bag to snack on later

Now that our energy was at a high, it was time for our tour of the Westcott House. The Westcott house was designed in 1906 and built in 1908 by the one and only Frank Lloyd Wright. If you’re unfamiliar with him, take a moment to do a bit of research on him, as he is one of the top architects of that time. This house was a site to see in the community! It’s horizontal lines and openness were far above its time. After the passing of the Westcotts, the house was converted to a multi-unit apartment building. This changed the original design so after many years and millions of dollars funded, the house was revitalized to honor the original design and is now open for tours to the public. We truly enjoyed being able to see the uniqueness and preservation of furniture. It was as if we walked back in time but were still viewing items that were modern. Quite a different and fun activity!

Now after all that learning, it was time to EAT! We were on our way to one of the best- and well-known restaurants in Springfield- Speakeasy Ramen. They’ve only been open for a few years but have already received numerous awards for their taste and quality. This was my second time visiting and it was just as delicious as the first. Yummmyyy! You can taste the freshness of the ingredients in every bite. This time around, we ordered:

One Holiday Special Cocktail- The Merry Martini & The Lemon Lavender Martini

Appetizer Wings- These are spicyyyy! Get the sauce on the side if you don’t like them hot!

JFC Taco- The most original taco I’ve probably ever had!

Japanese Curry Ramen with Shrimp- They’re known for their ramen!

All the items were flavored perfectly and filled us up with just the right amount of food. Great stuff! Be sure to check out the menu before you go. It changes frequently.

Now, if we were going to make it out anywhere else, we needed to get to the hotel for some rest! We checked in at the Courtyard Marriott, downtown Springfield for a bit of quiet time before getting back to things. The first thing we noticed was how friendly the staff were. They were super helpful with any question we asked and made general conversation, which is not always likely at hotels. If you’re picking a place to stay, I would encourage you to book this one because it’s updated, clean, modern and right in the heart of downtown. You can leave your car parked and walk to a great deal of options nearby. They also have all the major streaming services already set up on your tv so depending on the time that you have, you can sit, and binge watch your favorite shows before bed or before you head back out (which is exactly what we did).

It’s amazing how good rest causes you to work up an appetite! LOL Yes, it was time to eat again! For dinner, we walked down to Stella Bleu. Our walk was lovely because of the Christmas displays (including the HUGE Christmas tree in the center of downtown), and the holiday music playing in the air. Super romantic! We loved being able to visit during Holidays in the City. It made it extra special!

Sidenote: They are offering carriage rides through downtown through the 7th as well. The weather was not on our side for this but try it out if you’re in the area during this time!

Back to Stella Bleu…. They are a casual, fine dining experience in a newly renovated space. Their menu has quite a bit of variety to it so there’s likely going to be something for everyone you visit with. What we really enjoyed about this restaurant is they had great menu options that were nicer than your typical dining place, but they were also reasonably priced. So, if you want to have a date night or night out with your friends and family, this is your place! We ordered:

Stella Frites (superrrr good!)

Salmon Entrée

Butter Chicken Entrée

All entrees came with a side salad and complimentary biscuits. The biscuits were so good that we asked for more lol The service is also FAST! If you want to take your time a bit more, ask them to space out your options and they gladly will!

Who’s ready for cocktails?!!! We are!!! After finishing our meal, we walked down the street to CoHatch, which is a coworking space that also has restaurants and events. There are several throughout the state and other regions, so it was nice to also see one in the transitioning area of Springfield! This night, we went specifically for Market Bar. They are a cool, hip bar that offers up a huge variety of fun drinks. It happened to be a Tuesday night when we went which meant Tequila specials!! Woop! The bartender made us THE BEST margaritas that I’ve had in a long time. And they have a ton of flavor options that you can mix and match to make a custom one. What was cool about this area is one of the rooms nearby had public salsa dancing available for everyone. They looked like they were having a ball! And every so often, they’d come to the bar, grab and finish a drink, then go back to dancing! It was a fun vibe that I would keep coming back for!

And now….it was time to head back to the Marriott for a good night’s sleep because we still had a few more things to get into in the morning!

Alrighty! It was now morning and the first thing I always want to do when I wake up is EAT! Lucky for us, Ironworks Waffle Cafe, which is located inside of CoHatch, was waiting on us. A bit about them: They were founded on the goal of restoring vitality and passion to the rich historic downtown of Springfield. They also name every waffle after a notable Springfield icon. Let’s get into these waffles though! They have sweet and savory selections to fit whatever your taste buds are calling for. We ordered one of each:

Savory- The Johnny Lytle which had fried chicken and bourbon syrup. This one comes with a side. I recommend the waffle fries

Sweet- The National Road- which was a traditional waffle that we topped with fruit and whipped cream

I loveeee traditional Belgian waffles so these were right up my alley. They were the perfect way to start our day.

Oh, don’t forget to get coffee from Ironworks. We ordered our regular Dirty Chai with caramel. Veryyy good! We also were able to see more of the CoHatch space and all that it has to offer. It’s pretty cool!

Ok, last, but certainly not least was our stop at the Gammon House for a tour. For those that don’t know, the Gammon House was built in 1850 and is one of only three existing Ohio stops on the Underground Railroad owned by a free person of color. George and Sarah Gammon were extremely courageous in helping slaves get to freedom. They risked paying a huge fine or jail time if caught. Over the years, the house has been revitalized and is now like a mini museum, displaying many historical facts about slavery in general, Springfield happenings related to race, and Ohio news related to race. I learned so many new, and very important things visiting. It sent me through a wave of emotions primarily because it’s hard to continue to hear about the treatment of my people, but it’s also encouraging and motivating to see how far we have come and hear about the heroic people who paved the way! I encourage all people to visit this historic house. And in great news, we learned that they just purchased the land across the street to expand the space for more facts and additional events! Kudos to them!

Well ya’ll, that wraps up our time in Springfield. We loved learning more about the area and enjoyed visiting some of the top spots the city offers! We look forward to visiting again in the future. We hope this encourages you all to visit as well!

Cheers!



Supporting Women Owned Businesses in Ohio

Hey Everyone! If you have been keeping up with the blog, you know we partnered with Ohio.findithere
in June and July, which was A-MAZING! Well, guess what? We still aren’t done! We’re back for another
month and have a treat for you! Since August included National Women’s Day (August 9th ) and Women’s
Equality Day (August 26th ), it was more than appropriate for us to spend the month dedicating our time to Women Owned
Businesses in the city! We’ve selected 10 incredible women and couldn’t be more excited to highlight
them and all they have done! There may or may not be a bonus at the end as well ;)

Let’s jump right in!

1. The Rhined/Oakley Wines

Calling all cheese lovers!

A few years ago, a cheese and wine shop was just what the city needed! Thankfully, The Rhined
was opened by Stephanie Webster in 2017 and they’ve gone nowhere but up since then.
Stephanie did not have a background in cheese and wine, but she knew she loved it. She then
studied it extensively and has brought only the best to her OTR shop for our pleasures. Similar to
most of their guests, we have been many times and certainly won’t be stopping any time soon.
They developed a variety of offerings that we’ve experienced such as wine and cheese
pairings, raclette night (a MUST!), and/or simply to pick up great cheese and wine to enjoy at
home. They have been so successful that they acquired Oakley Wines, which now holds most of
the events. Talk about a success story! They have some of the best cheese boards in the city and
also developed mini boxes to go to treat yourself during quarantine. One thing I’m looking
forward to them bringing back (hopefully!) is the sandwich feature each week using local
ingredients and of course cheese sold in the shop. I used to wait in anticipation every week for it
and am so ready to have that feeling again! When/if they bring back this feature, be
ready….they sell out fast! Stephanie is the perfect example of not letting your experience stop
you from going after your dreams. She learned and executed!

2.Homemakers

What happens when you bring two fierce women together? Duhhhh. An awesome business is started!
Julie Petiprin and Catherin Manabat (who are the sweetest!) opened Homemaker’s Bar mid-2019.
We had the pleasure of attending their sneak peek back then and have loved it ever since. It is a craft
cocktail bar with a retro vibe. I say bar, but it can be used for much more, including private events. Prior
to Covid, they held many events (of which we also attended) including mixology classes, events at
Washington Park, pairing with popular food vendors (such at Pataroja Tacos) and much more. The
pandemic halted many businesses, but Homemaker’s found a way to keep their originality while also
reinventing themselves. Introducing… Outpost! Homemaker’s opened the space in the back of their
main location and created Outpost, which is a fun, outdoor, socially distanced, cocktail bar. When the
weather is nice, it’s the best way to enjoy fun in the sun with your favorite Homemaker’s cocktails! Oh,
and, did I mention they have food? I mean, you definitely want something to soak up whatever cocktail
you’re having. The menu changes often, but take it from us- if they have Mac n’ Cheese on the menu,
order it! You won’t be disappointed! There already aren’t many women owned bars in the area, but to
have one that is such a fun experience with the cutest décor and outdoor space is certainly worth celebrating!

3.Nostalgia

And now…the much anticipated… Nostalgia, the newest jazz and wine lounge in OTR (they just
opened a week ago!). When I heard the city was getting a hip jazz and wine lounge, I was

ecstatic! There’s literally not much more that I need on a nice night out. Finding out it was also
woman and black owned was another reason for me to be so excited. The owner, Tammy Scott
has done an excellent job of creating an intimate space that is fitting for all crowds. They have
over 40 wines by the glass or bottle, of which 8 are on tap! What I really love is they are
highlighting women and minority winemakers and producers. I call that “lifting as you climb”
and sharing the love! Remember where we highlighted The Rhined above? Well their
charcuterie boards will be available to pair with your wine as well.

For the music lovers, there will be traditional live jazz performances on Thursdays and Sundays

and jazz and soul live performances on Fridays and Saturdays. I love it!

Kudos to Tammy for bringing DC and NYC to Cincy. If you ever need to find me or get in contact

with me, search here first. It’s likely where I’ll be!

Now that we’ve covered cheese, wine, cocktails and jazz, let’s transition to FOOD!

4.Yee Mama

Who doesn’t love wontons??? (If you don’t, I’m side-eyeing you right now). Yee Mama is the new pop-
up, operating out of Findlay Kitchen. Fun fact, we’ve followed the owner Chiuyee Cheng’s influencer
page (@eating4three) for years and have always admired the home cooked meals she would add in.
They are beautiful, authentic and look super tasty! So, when she announced that she was launching Yee
Mama, we were READY! Chiuyee is originally from Hong Kong and has thankfully brought the Cantonese
flavors right to Ohio. She offers a variety of wonton kits that are sold by the dozen and come with
everything you’ll need (your choice of sauce, herbs and instructions). Even if you don’t know how to
cook, I promise it is easy to do. I ordered some a few weeks ago and devoured them in what felt like 5
seconds. Lol The flavor was incredible! I could tell she put so much love and thought it each wonton
which, I’m convinced, makes it extra delicious! Her ordering goes live every Sunday at noon. If you think
you can wait until 12:15 or 12:30 and still get some, you’re wrong! It took me a few weeks to order
because they would sell out so quickly. Now, having them, I completely understand why. So set your

alarm and order right at 12!

I love how Chiuyee stayed true to her culture and turned her love for it and for cooking into a business. I
can’t wait to see what else is in story for her considering how successful she’s been after being opened

for just under a month. Congrats to you, lady!

5.Cherbourg Cyprus

I know we have Vegan readers out there right?! Well this one is for you! Geri Peacock opened
Cherbourg Cyprus in OTR a few years back (2017) and is perfect for all of the sweet fanatics out
there who may not be able to eat all things. Not only do they specialize in gluten free treats;
they are also nut free. Personally, this is amazing for me because I found out I had a food
sensitivity to gluten and an allergy to certain nuts. For some, this may be discouraging, but
thankfully, Cherbourg Cyprus’ sweets are just as delicious as any other shop. What most don’t
know is this is their second location. The original one is in Columbus (which I heard many people
would drive to before it came to Cincinnati). What I really love about the owner is she took her

own struggle with Celiac disease and turned it into this beautiful bakery that will allow so many

others to enjoy the things they love. We thank YOU Geri!

Now that you’ve had all of the great food and drinks, let’s focus on pampering yourself and keeping your
skin together!

6.Pure Beauty Skin Bar

Pure Beauty Skin Bar was founded by Sylvia Brownlee. Not only is this business woman-
owned, it is also black-owned! This boss babe specializes in the treatment and prevention of acne, as
well as hyperpigmentation. I’d like to say she has “Magic Hands”. I’ve personally experienced her facials
and they are so relaxing. Now, relaxing is great, but they also need to be effective. Sylvia does an
awesome job of balancing the two. Between the facial and her products, I have to say my skin is
GLOWING! I have also seen her work on others, and she has absolutely transformed their skin. It’s both
exciting and comforting to watch and experience. If you are unsure of what facial to get or what
products to use, she offers consultations to ensure you have the best experience for YOU! Many people
don’t know, but she also does waxing. How perfect is it that you can get your facial and grooming done
in one place. She is also very personable and will make you feel as if you are speaking with a long-time
friend. Remember to stay consistent with this one! Keep your skin in her care!

7.Spruce Nail Shop

I love that Molly Reckman Nagle opened such a cute nail salon downtown! But this isn’t just

your ordinary nail shop. As said on their website:

“Spruce Nail Shop is the natural answer to your neighborhood nail salon. It is our mission to use
the safest alternatives for polishes, products, and practices, while creating one of a kind

manicures and nail art designs for our clients.”

If taking the natural route is important to you, they are the ones to go to. They have rave
reviews from their regulars. If you look at their Instagram and website, you will see such a clean
space filled with lots of color. It makes you feel so in the element, even from afar. They are also
known for their lovely designs that can be added on. Molly has done such a great job with the
space and staying true to her vision and standards. This led her to moving to a larger space at

Findlay Market. No matter where they’re located, we support!!

8.Prism Nail Lounge

Prism Nail LoungeMany people are still nervous about Covid-19 which has caused them to hold off on getting certain pampering services. What I absolutely love about Prism is it is operated solely by the owner, Thy Nghiem. Thy opened Prism early in 2020 with the intention to expand her staff, but Covid halted those plans for her. It actually has worked out great because, as a customer, I do not have to worry about many other people being in the lounge at the same time and she is able to put her sole focus on you!
As for her services, Thy has done an excellent job on both my manicures and pedicures. I have referred many friends there and they have all raves about it as well. I also love the ease of her online booking system. Clarity and efficiency are so important these days! 


Thoroughness, cleanliness and safety…can’t beat that! Thank you, Thy, for opening such a beautiful space and for keeping us all safe! 

Ok….we’ve talked food, drinks, music, and pampering. Now let’s go shopping!

9.The Native One

Y’all ….we are suckers for cute boutiques! And thank goodness for The Native One, opened by Anna
Steffen. They have quite the success story as well. Their first brick and mortar opened in 2018 and has
been a huge success! Shoppers from the suburbs and city can be found sporting their clothes (which also
can be purchased online). They’ve done so well that they opened a second location in Covington, KY last
year and are moving their OTR location into a much larger space across the street. You go girl!
They specialize in rompers, oversized apparel, and many other super cute items. You will also find home
décor, candles, cards, plants, and other crafted items. I love when a store is multi-dimensional with their
products. Every time I go in I have to stop myself from buying everything on the rack. If you see
something, act quick because they don’t care a bulk amount of the same thing. That means you won’t
see everyone walking around with exactly what you have one! Anna, thank you for carrying cute,

creative pieces for women of all sizes!

10.BINO (Be In Not Of)

Last, but not least… Beinnotof. This one is near and dear to my heart because it is faith based. Anyone
who knows me knows how serious I take being a Christ follower. BINO is a Christian based
communicated created by Niyah Simone. Although the community has been around for quite some
time, she recently launched her BINO clothing line. The line is made up of handcrated, sustainable, one-
of-a-kind tees and sweatshirts. It launched on August 8 th and almost sold out of every piece they had. If
you missed the launch, you can visit their website to order one (and only you will have that specific
design). They produce in small batches (quality over quantity), use thrifted materials, and are working
towards keeping the local economy sustainable. I love everything they stand for and absolutely love my

pieces.

There are a lot of people walking around in faith-based shirts and that just makes my heart (and heaven)

smile. Keep walking bolding into all God has called you to Niyah!

BONUS FEATURE:

Surely you didn’t think we were going to close out the post without mentioning our very own: Tiffany Biddle!

11.Sweet Mae’s Cookie Co
For a little background, I am a cookie fiend and always have been. My family appropriately calls me
“Cookie Monster”. So imagine how happy I was to find out the other half of Pursuit of Delights, Tiff B.,

was launching a cookie line!


Let me introduce you to Sweet Mae’s.

Sweet Mae’s is a brand-new cookie line that will officially launch on September 8th . They are homemade
premium stuffed cookies with a southern accent (That comes directly off their label and I love it!) For
anyone that doesn’t know, Tiff B. grew up in the south and developed the flavors from her experience
there. I, Tiff D., have had the honor of being the “OTT- Official Taste Tester” as she perfected and
finalized her flavors and let me tell you…..no joke….they are some of THE BEST cookies I’ve ever had.
They are each stuffed with the most amazing fillings. Everyone who I have purchased or shared some
with have raved about them. My favorites so far are the carrot cake and apple pie, but each one is
amazing. What I love is they have a flavor for everyone’s palette. If you like citrus, she’s got you. If you
like chocolate, she has that too. I am so proud of my blog partner, little sister, and friend for taking the

time to get it RIGHT. I believe in you and know this will be a huge hit!

There you have it folks! Amazing ladies who are paving the way. I am so proud of all of these women and the many others who are following their callings and not taking
“no” for an answer. We see you and celebrate you! Cheers to each of you! I can’t wait to see how the

pandemic down time has launched even more of us into launching new businesses.

If you want to support additional women-owned businesses, Ohio.findithere has customized an Ohio “Women in History” tour
highlighting specific ones! Click here to access it!

That’s all for now! Be sure to support these wonderful women!

We’re Fired Up For Fiery Hen!

Downtown Cincinnati is no stranger to up and coming restaurants. It seems like every month there is something new- and we’re certainly not complaining about it! When we heard Dan Swormstedt, owner of Court Street Lobster, was launching a new restaurant centered around Nashville hot chicken, we were all over it! We sat down with Dan and chef Clint Walker to talk all things chicken and more…

Welcome to the Fiery Hen

Photo Credit: Sam Greenhill

Read more