Miles of pristine forested hiking, outdoor cafes, resplendent architecture, astonishing views, thrilling adventures, intoxicating gardens! Does this sound like your kind of get-away? Ohio has all of this and more!  Here are a few of my favorite places…

The Fling Barn (Hillsboro, Ohio)

Situated on a 200-acre farm, an hour East of Cincinnati, The Fling Barn is a well-kept secret (well…not anymore) where you’re guaranteed to have a good time! Stuffed to the gills with Americana décor, featuring two bars, a dance floor, outdoor deck, and live rock n blues…it don’t get much better than that! In case you have too much fun, they have their very own Bed & Breakfast for your convenience, if it’s available.

~view from The Fling Barn (Images: Sherry Lachelle Photography)

Put-in-Bay

Located on Lake Erie, just over 4 hours North of Cincinnati, Put-in-Bay is Ohio’s split personality playground with a wild side to dive into…pretty people in skimpy bathing suits guzzling tropical adult beverages, but hop on a golf cart and within minutes you’re transported to a lake-side paradise of glistening blue water, rolling hills, and tranquility!

(Images: Sherry Lachelle Photography)

The Ohio River

Stretching 981 miles, the Ohio River flows through or borders six states and provides tons of recreational liquid fun!  Often less crowded than area lakes, the boating and water-skiing conditions are excellent.

(Images: Sherry Lachelle Photography)

Along the shore East of Downtown Cincinnati, the Theodore M. Berry International Friendship Park‘s gorgeous landscaping was designed to give visitors a distinct flavor from five of our Continents.  With Spring on our heels, take a walk or bike ride along their riverside trail, filled with unique sculptures and clusters of bursting colorful flowers (soon)!

Downtown Cincinnati Parks, Sawyer Point and Yeatman’s Cove host frequent festivals and events including the weekly “Party in the Park” with live entertainment, and features outdoor tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, an amazing playground, bicycle rentals, and concessions!

Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati, Ohio

More of a park than a graveyard, Spring Grove Cemetery is packed with nature! Take a hike along one of the paths or roads that wind through the idyllic setting (which by the way is the 2^nd largest cemetery in the U.S.) to view the lavish memorials, chapels, ponds, flowers, architecture, and wildlife. Dating back to the mid-1800’s, you’ll find the gravesites of many notable historical figures, including over thirty Civil War generals, governors and well-known names such as Proctor, Gamble, Kroger, Longworth, and Taft.

(Image: Sherry Lachelle Photography)

Yellow Springs, Ohio

Quirky and eclectic, Yellow Springs, Ohio, located an hour Northwest of Cincinnati, has an assortment of shops, galleries and restaurants to visit. Have a leisurely lunch at one of the colorful sidewalk cafes; get your shopping fix with a treasure trove of antiques, pottery, quilts, and jewelry; and spend the night at one of the comfy Bed and Breakfasts. Home to the historic Clifton Mill, John Bryan State Park, and the Little Miami Scenic Trail, you’ll have a difficult time deciding whether to hike, bike, or people watch!

(Image: Sherry Lachelle Photography)

Hocking Hills, Ohio

 Cozy cabins with hot tubs, beautiful waterfalls, and miles of hiking trails winding through forests and massive rock formations await you at Hocking Hills, Ohio’s premiere outdoor adventure destination, located just over two hours from Cincinnati! Thrill seekers can get their fix with one of the many popular activities, including zip lining, rock climbing, horseback riding, and canoeing or kayaking.

(Images: Sherry Lachelle Photography)

Rowe Woods, Milford, Ohio

Rowe Woods, with more than 16 miles of hiking trails, is a nature-lover’s delight no matter what season! Explore history, science, and birding at one of the numerous programs the Nature Center has to offer, or relax and enjoy one of the monthly concerts at the Krippendorf Lodge.  Childrens’ programs include educational opportunities encompassing wildlife, outdoors skills, and all things nature related, along with fun-filled treasure hunts, games, and crafts.

(Image: Sherry Lachelle Photography)

Top of Carew Tower, Cincinnati, Ohio

Watching the sunset from the top of the Carew Tower is a “must-do” activity for anyone living in or visiting Cincinnati! Standing 49 stories tall, it’s the second tallest building in the City and the view of the Ohio River is amazing. An added treat: View the beautiful French Art Deco architecture and murals in the lobby.

(Images: Sherry Lachelle Photography)

Buzzardroost Rock Trail, Brush Creek, Ohio

Far above the waters of Ohio Brush Creek, Buzzardroost Rock, stands guard over the most popular of all trails in the Edge of Appalachia Preserve system! The panoramic scene from this hilltop has been called Ohio’s most spectacular view. Look up occasionally for the turkey or black buzzards soaring above. The trail spans 4.5 miles, is rated moderately difficult, and is teaming with diverse plant species and geologic history.

(Image: Sherry Lachelle Photography)

 Happy travels!

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