Featured Ohio Winery: Markko Vineyard

9 January 202317 May 2025

Conneaut is about as far northeast as one could possibly drive in the state of Ohio. It is also home to one of the oldest wineries, so I set out to spend a weekend in Ashtabula and Lake County to visit as many wineries as possible.

As I approached Markko Vineyard, and after driving around in circles for a half an hour, I finally called for directions. I began to see acres of vineyards surrounding me and felt comfortable that I would arrive at any moment. As I drove up the gravel driveway, I felt as though I was entering a secret society, tucked away in the Sherwood Forest, hidden by tall oaks and maples, welcomed by stone pillars.

I began my tasting with the 2013 Reserve Chardonnay. Described as “typical Linda elegance, fruit finesse”, a bottle sells for $36 per bottle. I noted that this wine was a little acidic, but smooth. The 2012 Reserve Chardonnay was a bit smoother and I preferred it over the 2013.

My final tastings included the Pinot Noir 2012 Reserve which is “fruity with a hint of currant with a crisp, nice finish.” I enjoyed the body of this wine as it did not feel weighty but light. I continued with the Pinot Noir wines, a 2013 Reserve, “light red, fruity, medium body balanced”. I enjoyed the earthy, fruity finish of this wine which sells for $30 a bottle.

There were several wines available to include Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, Cabernet Sauvignons, a Johannisburg Riesling, non-vintage wines and a dry Champagne.

Excelsior is a 1993 Champagne Brut made from “Riesling sekt for majestic celebrations in both red and white.”

The 1999 Late Harvest Select Reserve Chardonnay sounded lovely, “rich floral honey, unctuous “like Ice Wine”, selling for $75 per bottle.

More recent vintages of Markko’s Chardonnay begin in 2009 described as having a refreshing finish, smoky pears, while the 2010 provided spice, citrus and a bright finish. They were selling their 2012 Select Reserve Chardonnay for $36 a bottle described as “pear, melon, light opulence, complex finish that will grow with age.

Markko Vineyard also produced several Cabernet Sauvignon selections starting with its 2012 Reserve with cherry berries and restrained long elegance and their 2012 Select Reserve with dark fruits and a delicate complexity. These wines are priced at $33, $36 and $39 per bottle respectively. The 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon reserve was described as “dark berries, garden glory lingers”.

The 2009 Johannesburg Riesling was described as light fruit, dry, hint of pine, selling for $27 per bottle.

In addition to the two Pinot Noirs I had sampled, the vineyard also sold a 2009 Majestic Reserve for $27 per bottle with “currant flavors, spices, sandlewood and almond, finesse suspended.”

Producing a line of non-vintage wine under the name “Covered Bridge”, the estate provides an $18 Riesling, a Chardonnay for $21, the Picnic White for $18 and a $12 wine named Picnic Red.

Arnie Esterer planted his vineyard in 1968 making Markko one of the oldest wineries in the state of Ohio. The wines on this estate are some of the best I have ever sampled. Arnie takes pride in the science of making wine and works each year in perfecting his craft.

To compliment your wine tasting or to order with a bottle to enjoy on their patio, Markko Vineyard also provides cheeses from Mayfield Road Creamery and their own Gouda and Camembert.

Directions:

Off of Interstate 90, take exit 235 (route 193) north ½ mile to the first stop light, Main Street. Turn right (east) on Main Street for approximately 3 miles; You will be close when the road turns to gravel. Take first driveway on left (north side) back into the woods.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Markko Vineyard? What was your favorite wine? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my wonderful experience at Markko Vineyard and wishing you many Happy Travels! Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Markko Vineyard
4500 S Ridge Road W
Conneaut, OH 44030
Telephone: 440 593 3197

Because the winery hours of operation are seasonal, please reference the winery’s website prior to visiting the winery.

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express Ashtabula – Geneva
1831 Austinburg Road
Austinburg, OH 44010
Telephone: 440 275 2020

Where to Eat:

Biscotti’s Restaurant
186 Park Avenue
Conneaut, OH 44030
Telephone: 440 593 6766

Serving Italian cuisine, I ordered the Medallions Gorgonzola Alfredo to try their homemade Alfredo sauce, so rich and delicious.

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Featured Ohio Winery: Soine Vineyards

19 December 202218 May 2025

Update: Soine Vineyards is now R&S Vineyards

Ten minutes north of Powell, Ohio is is one of the state’s original wineries, Soine Vineyards. Family-owned and operated, Soine was established in 2003.

Traveling the rural backroads on a beautiful summer day, I approached the gravel driveway surrounded by vines. It was too early for harvest, but there appeared several clusters of grapes on each plant. So far, it was looking to be a great harvest year.

The tasting room and production center are located at the end of the drive. I parked my car and entered to find Eric preparing for a busy weekend of wine tasting. He made some time to talk with me about history of Soine, the varietals they are growing in their vineyards and poured a few small samples.

While Eric manages the winery, his parents, Tim and Sandy help with the vineyard and greet the incoming visitors. A charming and kind couple, they were preparing for several reservations that afternoon.

The Monticello III, Coshocton, Ohio

24 October 202217 May 2025

A short distance from Roscoe Village in Coshocton, Ohio is a pathway leads to a canal. Once a waterway where goods were transported between Lake Erie and the Ohio River, it is now a historical landmark in remembrance of the Canal Days. This fascinating piece of history measured 308 miles with 146 lift locks.

The project to build the canal (“the big ditch”) began in the 1820s, taking a decade to build. Initially connecting the city of Akron with the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland, the project expanded to include access to the town of Portsmouth along the Ohio River. The canals were an integral asset for the transportation of good until the invention of the railroad, causing its decline. In addition, the flood of 1913 resulted in absolute destruction of several areas along the canal and any plans to restore the canal systems was completely abandoned.

Sections of the Ohio and Erie Canal were placed under the management of Ohio’s Department of Natural Resources as preservation efforts were underway. Visitors today can stroll down the 1-mile towpath along the canal or board the horse-drawn Monticello III for an historical experience. The canal boat, located near Roscoe Village, is available for tours on weekends starting Memorial Day through mid-October.

Within steps from Roscoe Village is a bike path that leads under a bridge to Lock Number 27. The Monticello III was out for a tour, so I strolled the path to pass the time. A small crowd began to form and we watched as the canal boat tied up and fed its team of horses.

Nearby picnic tables are available for guests who want to pack a picnic lunch.

Draft horses or mules pulled the boats while “hoggees” drove them to pull the barges along Mudport Basin, a small section of the Walhonding Canal. It was their job to ensure the horses did not fall into the canals.

The helmsman would remain aboard the boat to steer it with the tiller, a long piece of wood which was connected to the rudder.

I descended the short set of stairs and found a bench at the front of the boat. Looking out onto the green murky water, I could see dragonflies and water striders. Bubbles reached the top of the water and a fish or two would appear at the top, then seem to dive below to catch some shade from the boat.

We were free to walk around the boat until launch. I stood towards the front thinking about the 305 miles it would have taken to reach the Cuyahoga Valley. I imagined families and children lining the path to welcome the incoming goods and feeding the draft horses a carrot or two.

The horses had taken a small rest and were watered to prepare for the next set of guests. The weather was a beautiful seventy degrees, with a gentle breeze rustling the trees.

The Monticello weighs in at 25 tons and measures 74 feet long and 14 1/2 feet wide. Slowly drifting its way down the canal, we learned from the Captain of the Monticello that the canal measures 26 to 40 feet wide and would have taken about 80 hours to ride from start to finish. Luckily today we would be taking a 45 minute ride.

He also explained that the Canal was dug by hand and took seven years to complete.

Roscoe became the fourth largest wheat port along the 350-mile canal system and was a thriving town until the 1860s. The canal continued to operate even as railroads were increasing in popularity until the Great Flood of 1913, swept parts of the town away.

With the vision of local businessman, Edward Montgomery, we can appreciate Roscoe Village as a beautiful reminder of the Canal era and its historical significance. In 1968, the Toll House was the first structure to undergo restoration. Montgomery is credited for the preservation and revitalization of Roscoe Village with his vision of building a “living museum so that people of the 20th century…could enjoy” and has become quite the tourist destination.

What to See and What to Do:

Canal Boat Landing Address
23253 State Route 83 North
Coshocton, OH 43812
Telephone: 740-622-7528

Admission Fee: General: $8.00; Seniors (ages 60+): $7.00; Students: $6.00; Children: 5 & under – FREE; Veterans & Active Duty Military with ID: $5
Hours: The Monticello III is open Memorial Day through Labor Day from Friday through Sunday departing at 1 pm, 2 pm, 3 pm, and 4 pm. Check dates and times from Labor Day through the third week in October.
Amenities: picnic tables, parking, historical presentation, discounts, nearby restaurants
Length of Visit: Prepare to spend 2 – 3 hours, especially if you plan to visit Roscoe Village.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes. Going aboard the Monticello III may require some agility to board, so be prepared. The Canal Boat leaves promptly on the hour, so arrive in plenty of time before departure. The ride is typically 45 minutes in length as the horse-drawn Canal boat will turn around in the basin and return to the landing where guests boarded the boat. I purchased my ticket at the Visitor Center but there are two additional locations to pick up tickets: the Toll House, and the Canal Boat Landing.

Where to Stay:

The Roscoe Boutique Motel
421 S. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio 43812
Telephone: 740 622 8736

Where to Eat:

Warehouse Steak and Stein
400 N. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio 43812
Telephone: 740 622 4001

What to Read:

I Remember Roscoe, by Robert Hull

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Roscoe Village in Coshocton, Ohio

10 October 202217 May 2025

I had recently visited the Ohio River Museum in Marietta, learning about the riverboat transports along the Ohio River, when I decided to make the drive from Cincinnati to the canal town of Roscoe Village. Beautifully preserved, this lovely town tells the story of a simpler life when goods were transported along the Ohio and Erie canals. Red-bricked walkways connect restored buildings that house lively shops, museums and restaurants.

Each year, this historical district offers summer programs where attendees can learn about printing, create a stained glass souvenir and participate in arts and crafts. Each summer Roscoe Village hosts its annual festival where the town comes to life with period actors dressed in the fashion of the 1800s, answering questions about life at the Village. There are several food trucks and activities that Festival draws visitors from all over the state of Ohio and nearby states Their website provides additional information and updates for these services.

I began my tour at the Visitor’s Center where I watched a short, historical video. Browsing around the exhibits (some of the exhibits require a ticket), I learned about the construction of the canals, read about the history of the American Indians that had once lived here and picked up some additional information for nearby businesses.

The town of Roscoe was initially named after its first white settler who arrived from Rhode Island around 1811. James Calder laid out the plans for the town which he named Caldersburgh. He died in 1824.

In 1961, Edward and Frances Montgomery purchased the Toll House at Roscoe Village to restore the building to its original state. They wanted to preserve the town for future visitors to enjoy as a way to preserve its history. Near the Visitor’s Center is a Memorial Garden in memory of Frances who also planted the gardens in the early 1970s. Additional gardens on the property include Weaver’s and Caldersburgh Gardens.

A nearby placard documents Coshocton County’s contribution to the Underground Railroad with several locals assisting fugitives to escape slavery in the South. Prior Foster was instrumental in helping with the cause, offering his home as shelter to fugitives and ensuring their cross at Harbaugh Corner so that they could obtain their freedom.

Roscoe Village has a living history program and during my visit, the Blacksmith happened to be working in the shop, called the “Village Smithy”. Next door is the Hay Craft and Learning Center where visitors can learn to make brooms and tour a print shop.

Along the cobblestone sidewalks are boutique shops with unique gifts, products from Ohio and food items. I picked up a few dip mixes, salsas and a shelf that would look great in my living room. The Visitor’s Center was located on the second floor, so I picked up a few additional ideas for my weekend in Coshocton County.

On the main street, there were additional shops, restaurants, the Johnson-Humrickhouse Museum, Montgomery Hall and the Toll House. Located inside of the 1840 Jacob Welsh House is the Living History Tour documenting the restoration of Roscoe Village.

Historical photos are displayed on several walls to show Roscoe Village prior to its construction updates. Before leaving the museum to board the Monticello III, I made a stop at The Warehouse Steak and Stein for lunch, ordering a chicken sandwich, salad and beer.

Visitors can explore the interactive, outdoor museum with self guided living history tours and engage with local costumed interpreters such as artisans, press operators, doctors and teachers. Continue to experience hands-on activities while strolling the village’s period shops and lively restaurants. With a total of seven historic buildings, guests can explore the town’s 19th century history from 10AM to 4PM.

Over the past 50 years, Roscoe Village has hosted the Apple Butter Stirring Festival on the third weekend of October. Holidays are also an amazing time to visit as Roscoe Village comes to life, celebrating the Christmas Holiday, with carolers, Santa and his elves, beautiful luminaries lining the streets and the traditional tree-lighting ceremonies.

Have you had an opportunity to visit Roscoe Village in Coshocton? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my day trip to Roscoe Village and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Historic Roscoe Village
600 N. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio
Telephone: 800 877 1830

Admission Fee: Free except for nominal fees for some exhibits.
Hours: Roscoe Village Visitor Center is open 7 days a week with Living History Tours from 10AM to 4PM.
Amenities: a museum, gift shop, restrooms, special events and tours
Length of Visit: 2.5 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Plan to shop and don’t miss the opportunity to ride the Monticello III, a canal boat.

Where to Stay:

The Roscoe Boutique Motel
421 S. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio 43812
Telephone: 740 622 8736

Where to Eat:

Warehouse Steak and Stein
400 N. Whitewoman Street
Coshocton, Ohio 43812
Telephone: 740 622 4001

What to Read:

I Remember Roscoe, by Robert Hull

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Kewpee Restaurant in Lima, OH

5 September 202217 May 2025

When I mentioned to my friend Heidi that I was driving up to Lima, Ohio for a concert and looking for a quick meal, she suggested that I try Kewpee (pronounced Q-P) Hamburgers. A local chain which originated out of Flint, Michigan, this restaurant’s headquarters is now located in Lima. I was incredibly surprised by its history in the fast food industry.

The restaurant’s name is based on the popular early 1900s cartoon character, the Kewpie doll, named for the Cupid. From standing over the front door to overlooking the dining room from a corner, these petite, baby-like dolls seem to stare over the restaurant from every angle.

By the time I had arrived, there was a long line to order food, but I had some time before I needed to reach the concert .

Waiting in line, I couldn’t help but look at the decor of the restaurant and wondered when it had last been updated. The slogan, “Your Grandpappy ate here.” was over the door entering the kitchen made from vintage lettering that one would find on a group of mailboxes. Locals swear it is the “Hamburg-Pickle-on-Top-Makes -Your-Heart-Go-Flippity-Flop.”

Red benches along the side of the wall were full of patrons either eating or waiting on their order. The line was going fast and the restaurant was calling out a group of numbers for patrons to collect their meals.

Within fifteen minutes of waiting in line, the cashier, Matthew took my order and explained that it would be a ten minute wait. I confirmed that I would be eating my meal in the restaurant and found a seat close to the door to the kitchen until my order was completed.

By the 1950s, fast food restaurants and diners were opening through out the United States. Uniforms included white pressed shirts and the white hat which is still worn at all of the Kewpee Hamburger restaurants, taking diners back to another era.

As I picked up my tray, I could smell the combination of cooked beef and fried French fries. I hadn’t eaten all day so I quickly opened the wrapper to take my first bite. Kewpee hamburgers are made with local ground beef, prepared fresh daily and never frozen.

The sandwich was perfectly cooked with fresh vegetables with a little, ketchup, mayonnaise and mustard.

I hadn’t realized how hungry I had been until taking my last bite, I noticed the Kewpee doll in the corner. I was just happy she wasn’t looking directly at me, but it was close enough.

Have you had a Kewpee burger in Lima, Ohio? What did you think? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Kewpee Hamburgers and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Kewpee Hamburgers
111 North Elizabeth Street
Lima, OH 45804
Telephone: 419 229 1385

Hours: Open Monday to Thursday from 6:30AM to 8PM (the drive thru opens at 5:30AM); Friday and Saturday from 6:30AM – 9PM (the drive thru opens at 5:30AM; Closed on Sunday

What to Eat:

I highly recommend the hamburger and now I wished I would have tried the frosted malt.

The Ohio River Museum in Marietta, Ohio

29 August 202216 May 2025

Update: The Ohio River Museum is currently closed for renovation. Check the website for more information.

Stationed along the Ohio River in the town of Marietta is the Ohio River Museum. Located in southeast Ohio, Marietta was the state’s first permanent settlement dating 1787. Because of its location at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, this was site was once a bustling port for importing and exporting goods as well as passengers along its waterways. The Ohio River Museum highlights the importance of this river system and the transportation vessels that once occupied these waters.The first successful steamboat dates back to the late 1700s when John Fitch mastered the building of the vessel with its primary purpose to transport goods along the Delaware River. The Ohio River Museum displays a beautiful replica of the “Pioneer” which was a shipping vessel among the Great Lakes fleets dating back to 1901.

In the early 1800s, Marietta became a location where sea-faring vessels were built transporting goods to Cincinnati, New Orleans and New York. The first seafaring vessel, the St. Clair, was built in Marietta scheduled to arrive at the Gulf of Mexico. With its 60-foot masts, it was three times the size of previous riverboats. Imagine in 1801, most of the population of Cincinnati, waiting along its banks to watch the St. Clair float along the Ohio River.At the Point in Marietta, additional seaworthy vessels were being built to include the John Farnum schooner. This beautiful vessel is on display at the Ohio River Museum. The Historical Marietta blog provides the following information about this barque.

“She was two hundred and forty-nine and one half tons. Her keel was laid in the Spring of 1846 and she was launched in February 1847. She was towed at once to Portsmouth where she took on a cargo of Indian Corn. She was measured, inspected and cleared at Louisville, Ky. Her destination was ‘Cork or a Port.’

She arrived at Cork in May, 1847 during the great famine in Ireland and returned to Philadelphia in August and was sold to Potter, McKeever & Co. of that city. The Master builder was Capt. William Knox, of Harmar. Capt. A. B. Waters had charge of the vessel and cargo with Capt. George Hatch as Navigator. Capt. Hatch was afterwards Mayor of Cincinnati.”

The steamboat would eventually become a mode of transportation for passengers in the 1820s. Depending on the size of the vessel, the number of crew could range from 5 to 120.

Many of the ships would offer entertainment for its passengers to include Vaudeville acts, band performances and theater productions.

The captain’s main purpose was to ensure the safety of cargo and passengers onboard and monitor the financial success of each voyage. Safety devices such as posted placards, life jackets and life rings were readily available to passengers.

Additional positions included the clerk, who handled the exchange of money; the engineer who maintained the mechanical safety of the vessel and the pilot. The pilot was navigator who was responsible for guiding the ship along the waterway. Under the pilot (and captain) was the mate. There were also the roustabouts (laborers) and the cabin crew.

The pilot would communicate with the engineer by use of the Engine Room Signal Indicator.

The Guiding Star traveled between Cincinnati and New Orleans between 1878 to 1893 when it was destroyed by a fire on January 6.

The Delta Queen is quite possibly the most known of all of the steamboats as it continues to sail between Minneapolis to Pittsburgh today. She is the sister ship to the Delta King which is currently docked in Sacramento.

The Queen City was one of the grandest packet boats to work the river. Built in 1897 by the Cincinnati Marine Railway Company for the Cincinnati – Pittsburg route, she also sailed along the Chattahoochee, Kanawha, Mississippi, Monongahela and Ohio Rivers. According to the Ohio County Public Library, “The Queen City was designed for high class patronage at a time of affluence. Captain Ellison was influenced in his design by the Idlewild and he had made a study of Great Lakes steamers which he utilized. Her mahogany cabin was finished in gilt trim and the ceiling was of pressed metal sheets with ornate design. She had wire mesh railings studded with rosettes. She had a carved figurehead rising from her stem which she retained until she was rebuilt at Mound City, Illinois in 1920.”

“A metal Queen City emblem in gold appeared on each stateroom door. Her grand piano was presented by the Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce. She had oil paintings on the rounded cabin bulkheads. She had shining brass oil lamps in swinging brackets and overhead lights coming from twined oak leaves of metal. Queen City and her sister boat, Virginia, were advertised in Pittsburgh’s social register and brought in many fashionable Pittsburgh citizens. Queen City was christened by Harriet Henderson, daughter of Captain James A. Henderson, president of the P & C Line. She was launched on June 5, 1897; ran her trials through June 10th and departed for Pittsburgh June 19th. On her 1914 trip downbound, she sank on the Falls at Louisville on Feb. 17th. She continued on Mardi Gras trips in 1921, 1922, 1923, 1925 and 1930. After her ill-fated Mardi Gras trip in 1914, she was laid up in the Kanawha River at Pt. Pleasant, West Virginia until early summer 1916 when she returned to Louisville and ran excursions. She was moved to the foot of Liberty Street because of wharf improvements and sank there in January, 1940. Her wreckage was burned on February 17, 1940 (in Pittsburg).”

On display at the Ohio River Museum are several vessels which were used to transport goods and passengers along the Ohio River. In addition, there are several displays of items which would have been found in the kitchen and dining rooms as well as personal effects from the officers and crew.

Sailing down the Ohio or Mississippi River on a riverboat is such an historic journey, visiting the modest, less populated river towns would be the opportunity of a lifetime. While riverboat transportation was incredibly popular with the transport of goods and passengers, the mid 1800s changed everything. By this time, the railroads became the primary mode of transportation for passengers and goods, replacing the use of riverboats, for what seemed the end of riverboat travel. Today, passengers can board the Delta Queen with its robust itinerary and the opportunity to experience a riverboat cruise in the footsteps of Mark Twain.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Ohio River Museum? I would love to know about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to the Ohio River Museum and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Ohio River Museum

601 Front Street

Marietta, Ohio 45750

Telephone: 740 373 3717

Admission Fee: $7.00 to tour the museum and W.R. Snyder steam powered towboat.
Hours: Saturday from 9:30AM to 5PM, Sunday: 12PM to 5PM, closed Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday – Thursday: 10AM to 5PM; Please refer to the museum’s website to confirm hours of operation.
Amenities: waterpark, restaurants, group rates, handicap accessible, annual passes, discounts and promotions, attractions, live shows, rides, lego minilands, movies, gardens,
Length of Visit: Prepare to spend 1 – 2 hours, especially if you plan to tour the W.R. Snyder steam powered towboat.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes. The visit to the W.R. Snyder steam powered towboat may require some agility to enter, be prepared.

Where to Stay:

Lafayette Hotel, a historical hotel

101 Front Street

Marietta, Ohio 45750

Telephone: 740 373-5522

Where to Eat:

Boathouse BBQ
218 Virginia Street
Marietta, OH 45750
Telephone: 740 373 3006

You have to try the Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese! Amazing!

What to Read:

A Guide to Historic Marietta Ohio, by Lynne Sturtevant

North Market in Columbus, Ohio

15 August 20226 June 2025

North Market in downtown Columbus was only a twenty minute drive from my home in Dublin. Aside from finding parking, the process was pretty easy and well worth the time. With my shopping list in hand, I was excited to try a new recipe where I needed to pick up some exotic spices, saffron and sumac.

Established in 1876, North Market was celebrating its 140th anniversary this year. When the market first opened the area had not been surveyed so it was set up on an unkempt cemetery that had been abandoned on a site west of Second Union Railroad Station. The primary transportation into the market was by train and the conditions were dirty and caused traffic congestion that could last for hours. Luckily, this was not the case as I found a parking spot in the nearby lot.

The only traffic jam I found was a group of shoppers that had stopped forJeni’s Ice Cream, just inside of the door. With North Market Spices close by, I purchased the saffron and sumac then continued to follow the crowd counter-clockwise for sushi from Nida’s and soft tacos at Dos Hermanos.

The history of North Market is quite fascinating. As the city grew in size and wealth, city officials commissioned Daniel Hudson Burnham to design and build a grand shopping market. They were relying on Burnham to create a space that would rival the spectacular European markets and artistic cityscapes that he had once created for Chicago and D.C.

Burnham’s Union Station opened in 1897 with the arcade opening a couple of years later. Built in the Beaux-Arts Classicism style, the station welcomed more than 160 trains each day as thousands arrived for shopping, government, business, tourism and education.

Electric street cars replaced the trollies bringing in another 80 million to Columbus each year. The beauty of this place put Columbus on the map as “the most brilliantly illuminated city in America.” Business was booming and the surrounding markets flourished. Downtown Columbus became one of the most sought after real estate locations in Ohio.

The opulent North Market Historic District was a result of Ohio’s booming manufacturing. Farming was on the rise and the transportation of goods by the railroad added to the state’s prosperity.

By WWII, the North Market and surrounding area saw a decline as manufacturing began to weaken. Trains no longer brought visitors as cars became more accessible and by 1970, the arcades and businesses were closed and boarded up. North Market was all that remained of the several markets within the city and eventually, it would also result in decline.

A non-profit organization, North Market Development Authority, was eager to restore the market, raising over $5 million dollars to rebuild this landmark. Restaurants such as Martini’s and the Japanese Steakhouse began to open on High Street along with the addition of the Columbus Convention Center. Today, North Market includes over thirty vendors, once again bringing visitors to the downtown area.

Among the vendors that I visited while exploring North Market include:

Spices Limited North Market: Welcome to North Market Spices, your destination for the perfect flavor. Spices Ltd. was conceived over lunch at North Market. We envisioned a place with a wide variety of the highest quality spices. Spices that make cooking creative, fun and delicious. That’s why, when you need the perfect spice to enhance any dish, you’ll find it at Spices Ltd. Website: https://northmarketspices.com/

Firdous Express: Welcome to Firdous Express we are a quick-service restaurant. Offering a wide range of Mediterranean ingredients. From fresh tabula, creamy hummus with a hint of fresh garlic, crispy falafel, tender shawarma, and delicious baklava. We focus on providing our guests with great food, excellent customer service and lots of smiles.

Nida’s Sushi: Nida Perry, a native of Thailand, has brought a love of food and entertainment to North Market. Bringing the delicious cuisine of her childhood to the residents of Columbus, Nida includes the best of Thai cuisine, with accents from Japanese, Vietnamese, and Western traditions. From the crisp fresh spring rolls, to the tangy tom yum soup, to the sweet and spicy curries, our kitchen prepares each signature dish with exotic spices and herbs. Each bite bursts with flavors of fresh lemongrass, ginger, coconut milk, and Thai basil. The sushi bar offers the freshest seafood in both traditional and specialty maki rolls, sashimi, and nigiri.

Lan Viet Market: The Le family started Lan Viet Market downtown in 2010 with the desire to bring a part of our culture to our community. From steaming noodle soup (pho), crispy sandwiches (banh mi), refreshing spring rolls, to sizzling noodle and rice bowls; we serve authentic and delicious food that is inspired by the culture and the history of Vietnam. Our food is made to order from the freshest ingredients and has the perfect combination of savory, sweet, and spicy. Come try out a piece of our culture!

Bubbles: At Bubbles we offer a variety of organic cold-pressed juices, whole fruit smoothies, bubble teas, and açaí bowls. We strive to please each and every customer with our fast service and exceptional customer service. Website: https://bubblesteacompany.com/

Sarefino’s: If you want the kind of pizza described by our East Coast Customers as “the best pie in town”, visit our North Market location right next to Pastaria Seconda and try a slice. Yes – this is the best New York-style pizza in Columbus! We hand toss every pizza and serve it pie-shaped by the slice daily. Favorites include pepperoni, cheese, and a mouthwatering veggie pizza with spinach, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. You can also call and order a whole pie for pickup. https://www.pastarianorthmarket.com/sarefinos-pizzeria-italian-deli/

Pastaria Seconda: Located in the North Market, we have three restaurants and a catering service to bring you the finest in Italian foods. Pastaria was opened by founder Don Ziliak in 1993. We specialize in true scratch cooking and our daily lunch offerings have made many loyal customers. Stop in and try our chicken Parmesan, have a ginormous slice of 3 cheese lasagna, or for the more sophisticated pallet, try our artichoke and Gorgonzola cream sauce! Right next to our flagship store in the historic North Market is where you will find Pastaria Seconda which specializes in fresh raviolis, fresh cuts of pasta and homemade sauces, all prepared fresh daily. Let us tempt you with our Raviolis that you can take home and make for dinner: Lobster, Smoked Mozzarella, Black Bean, and Butternut Squash are just a few of the over 20 ravioli fillings offered daily. Website: https://www.pastarianorthmarket.com/

Stauf’s Coffee Roasters: Stauf’s Coffee Roasters, founded in 1988, is Columbus’ original cafe and roastery. We always endeavor to provide the best and freshest coffees hand-selected from over 20 countries of origin. We think you’ll believe us when we say that the proof is in the cup! Website: https://www.staufs.com/staufshomepage

Flavors of India: Established in 1991, Flavors of India is one of the oldest merchants at North Market. This family-run business will have you feeling like you are a part of the family. Serving you home-style Northern Indian cuisine made with freshly sourced ingredients each morning, Flavors of India incorporates healthy herbs and spices (turmeric, coriander, ginger, and garlic) in each dish offering truly authentic flavors of India. Offering Vegan and Gluten-Free options.

Dos Hermanos: Dos Hermanos has a true passion for sharing authentic Mexican food. While visiting the North Market you may find us hand rolling and steaming Tamales, scooping fresh Avocados for our guacamole, or slow cooking our Barbacoa for Tacos. We often use ingredients that we source from local markets and other small business owners. Website: https://eatatdos.com/

Brezel: Brezel is a gourmet pretzel company specializing in hand-rolled Bavarian-style pretzels and pretzel products in a variety of flavors. If you prefer the classic or something more unique, we’ve got you covered. With 40+ flavors, we make a flavor for every taste bud. Website: https://www.brezelpower.com/

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: This is where Jeni began making the ice creams that The New York Times called “worth the drive to Ohio” and Time magazine called “the best in America.” When Jeni opened in 2002, Jeni could be found making and selling all the ice creams herself behind two dipping cabinets. Today, Jeni continues to draw inspiration from the merchants, food, customers, and overall vibe of the historic city market. She’s often there for events—and to shop for ingredients to use in her home and work kitchens. Website: https://jenis.com/blogs/scoop-shops/columbus-oh

Some of the shops I will miss….

Little Eater…I loved their many healthy salads!

North Market Poultry and Game…fresh beef and chickens; It was the first time I had bison!

The Fish Guys – sushi grade tuna…need I say more?

Pistacia Vera – cute, little, delicious desserts!

Destination Donuts – the glazed and chocolate glazed were my favorite….

Katzinger’s Little Deli – will miss their amazing salads and pickle

*Information regarding each vendor has been copied from The North Market Website.

I’m sure that since my last visit, there are several new vendors, so I look forward to a future trip to Columbus where I can eat my way through North Market.

Have you visited North Market in Columbus, Ohio? What was your favorite vendor? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my day trip to North Market and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

North Market Columbus
59 Spruce Street
Columbus, OH 45215
Telephone: 614 463 9664

Where to Stay:

Moxy, Columbus Short North
808 N. High Street
Columbus, OH 45215
Telephone: 888 861 8331

Where to Eat:

North Market Eateries

Firdous Express
Nida’s Sushi and Thai
Lan Viet Market
Bubbles
Sarefino’s
Pasteria Seconda
Dos Hermanos
Brezel
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream

What to Read:

North Market Cookbook

Photo Guide to Columbus:

Bicentennial Park
Franklin Park Conservatory
German Village
Hayden Falls Park
Inniswood Metro Gardens
Ohio Statehouse
Scioto Mile Promenade
Short North Arts District
Stroll through the stalls of North Market for amazing photos!

A Walking Tour of the Victoria and Albert Harbor

4 August 202222 September 2024

Filled with adrenaline from having swam with the Great Whites at Gansbaai, I was excited to explore the scenic coast of Cape Town before hopping a plane for Johannesburg. With a couple of days ahead of me, I planned to explore the coast, sample the local wines and study the fascinating life of Nelson Mandela.

Grabbing my backpack, I exited the Protea Hotel in Sea Point and began my forty-five minute trek towards the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Known as the oldest working harbor in the Southern Hemisphere, this lively neighborhood is where I will be catching the jetty over to Robben Island in the afternoon.

Navigating through one of the most affluent suburbs of Cape Town, I quickly reached the coast. I had arrived in August, the start of South Africa’s winter, greeted with mild temperatures and overcast skies. The colorful high rises were a welcome site against the gray backdrop and foggy start of my day.

Mounds of seaweed covered the manicured beaches as small whitecaps made their way towards the water’s edge. The sun was rising and casting a glow on the concrete landscape where locals slowly filled the promenade. The briny smell of the sea continued to grow stronger as warmer temperatures began to rise. My walk continued northeast away from Sea Point towards indigenous gardens, passing the Green Point Lighthouse with a glimpse of the Cape Town Stadium.

Gazing toward the barren mountains in the distance, the palm tree-lined avenue brought me closer to the V&A Waterfront. Posted signs served as a reminder of Cape Town’s water shortage which was at its peak during my visit.

Within minutes, the landscape grew more beautiful with gardens of purple salvia and elegantly laid brick stretching for miles. Tall, clusters of palm trees rose from the rocky cliffs sloping down towards the bay. The V&A Waterfront, a part of Cape Town’s Big 6, includes the Table Mountain Cableway, Kirstensbosch Gardens, Robben Island, Cape Point and Constantia Vineyards.

In the midst of the spectacular countryside was built a beautiful tribute to Queen Victoria and her son Prince Alfred, known by locals as the V&A Waterfront. The venue has become one of South Africa’s most visited historical and cultural destinations.

From the second story of the waterfront’s shopping plaza I noticed the boats moored in South Africa’s oldest working harbor, over 450 shops and restaurants lining the streets and a Ferris wheel offering spectacular views of Signal Hill. I had purchased a ticket to visit Robben Island and would return to the dock after lunch to board the Robben Island jetty.

Too early for lunch, I strolled the harbor where boats were tied up alongside the dock bringing in the catch of the day and taking out passengers for tours of the coast. Many of the stores and restaurants would soon open, so I strolled the quiet site and found The Harbor House where I decided to dine for lunch.

Starting out with a local Chenin Blanc from Beaumont Wines, I scanned over the menu in hopes of finding a local seafood dish or a platter of sushi for lunch. The wine was crisp with the flavors of tart apples and melon, chilled perfectly. Sitting on the second level of the restaurant, the sun was struggling to push its way past the cloudy sky, but its warmth was pressing in.

With each sip, I weighed my options and finally decided on the Tuna Rainbow Roll and Ultimate Rainbow Roll. Decadent and full of flavor, I slowly enjoyed each bite as I finished my glass of wine. The weight staff were exceptional and the restaurant views, spectacular.

As I strolled the waterfront with its colorful monuments and museums, I heard the bark of a Cape Fur Seal. Following the sound, I came upon this beautiful mammal tucked in a concrete corner finding a place to rest near the first stop on my self-guided tour, Cape Town’s Clock Tower.

Built in 1882, the Victorian-Gothic Clock Tower was once the office of the Port Captain, who managed the schedule of ships coming in and out of the docks. The clock tower, originally painted yellow, is the oldest building along the waterfront. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the red-and-gray tower was refurbished in 1997 and is the home to several Cape Fur Seals.

Located at the base of the Swing Bridge, the African Trading Port is a shop focused on selling local African Art to include sculptures, ceramics, pottery and artifacts. Drawing works from all over the country, this workshop first opened in Zimbabwe in 1978 with additional shops such as the one in Cape Town, opening in 2001.

Looking out across the port, the location where I am standing is Alfred Basin, where the original docks were built at the port of Cape Town. In the distance are the picturesque Signal Hill and Table Mountain.

One of my favorite experiences was finding the beautifully painted rhinos placed along the waterfront, part of a program to bring awareness to these endangered species. Poachers have been hunting the rhinoceros for their tusks, bringing about their near extinction since the 1950s. TRAC, which stands for “The Rhinos are Coming” is raising money to stop this practice throughout Africa. From February 1^st to March 31^st of 2017, one hundred decorated rhinos were strategically placed throughout Cape Town as an outdoor art exhibit, which remained on display.

The V&A Market is now home to the former Pumphouse. A vibrant marketplace with over forty vendors offering fresh food and produce as well as gourmet meals and local beer and wine. I couldn’t resist stopping by The Knysna Oyster Company for a half a dozen oysters on the half shell.

A few steps from the market is Nobel Square, another impressive artistic installation, which opened in December of 2005. The four statues represent Albert Lutuli, Desmond Tutu, F. W. de Klerk and Nelson Mandela, four of the country’s Nobel Peace Prize winners.

Checking my watch, I realized the ferry would soon be leaving for Robben Island. Eager to explore the history of this island prison, I was also curious to learn more about Nelson Mandela’s experience here as a political prisoner.

Have you visited the Victoria and Albert’s Waterfront in Cape Town, South Africa? What was your favorite part of your visit? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Cape Town and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Where to Stay;

Where to Eat:

What to Eat:

What to Read:

Photo Guide to Capetown:

Cincinnati’s Roebling Bridge: The Inspiration for NY’s Brooklyn Bridge

29 July 202217 May 2025

Strolling towards Smale Park from The Banks, I was happy to learn that the Roebling Suspension Bridge would be reopening. Having been closed for 14 months for renovations, the opening date had been pushed back several times. Luckily, pedestrians could cross, but this was going to change the traffic pattern for downtown, just in time for Opening day.

The Roebling Suspension Bridge (originally named the Covington and Cincinnati Bridge) is a Cincinnati Landmark and one of five bridges that cross the Ohio River. Each bridge is unique in its own right, but this 1,057-foot span was once the longest suspension bridge in the world.

As Cincinnati continued to grow as a port city, the addition of ferries and riverboats connected the north and south shores of the river. At one point there were five ferries that crossed the Ohio. Bridges were becoming inexpensive to build which resulted in the number of ferries to disappear. Anderson Ferry is the only ferry that continues to operate on the West Side of Cincinnati. While living in Delhi, I used the Anderson Ferry to reach northern Kentucky. With winding roads traveling the hill, within minutes I could reach the airport.

The Roebling Suspension Bridge was the first of the five bridges to cross the Ohio River from Ohio into Kentucky, but not without its controversy. In a time where steamboats transported goods from one place to the next, the captains and their crew were concerned that the bridge would interfere with their livelihood, especially during the seasonal floods.

From politics to economic challenges, the bridge finally opened in 1866 with the help of John A. Roebling, the engineer who created the bridge and Amos Shinkle. Roebling would later base his design of Cincinnati’s suspension bridge when building the Brooklyn Bridge in New York.

A few years later, a series of cables were added to the bridge to ensure its stability which led to the crossing of streetcars, buses and cars. Today, commuters span the bridge crossing the Ohio to reach their workplace whether by car, but or by foot. Towboat pilots who “run the bridges”, find the cluster of bridges a bit of a challenge not to make contact with the concrete posts.

The Roebling Suspension Bridge is the oldest bridge that crosses the Ohio River and is the most photographed. The bridge was designated a national historic and national civil engineering landmark.

It is amazing to think of the Ohio River’s importance to transportation of goods and people. While barges, tugboats and steamboats continue to roam its water highway, the bridges that cross this river are well traveled by cars, trains and people connecting each other from one place to the next.

Have you had the opportunity to cross the Roebling Suspension Bridge? Were you walking? Where were you going? I would love to hear your story if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my love for the Roebling Bridge and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Roebling Suspension Bridge
Downtown Cincinnati, OH

Where to Stay:

AC Hotel by Marriott Cincinnati at the Banks
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 744 9900

Where to Eat:

Moerlein Lager House, Microbrewery and Restaurant
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 421 2337

I ordered the Chef’s Charcuterie and the Fried Pickles as I enjoyed a flight of beers.

What to Read:

The Ohio Bridge: Cincinnati’s Roebling Suspension Bridge, 1846 – 1939, by Henry R. Stevens
Uncle Tom’s Cabin, by Harriet Beecher Stowe
Babbitt, by Sinclair Lewis
Back Street, by Fannie Hurst
The Frontiersmen, by Allan W. Eckert
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Cincinnati, by Lee Davis Willoughby
Queen City Jazz, by Kathleen Ann Goonan
The Cincinnati Red Stalkings, by Troy Soos
The Jazz Bird, by Craig Holden
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
No Police Like Holmes, by Dan Andriacco

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Exploring a Whole New World at The Newport Aquarium!

22 July 20223 May 2025

Greeting me at the entrance to the Newport Aquarium is the Wishing Whale, a humpback whale that seems to appear out of the frozen ice beneath him! It is a spectacular life-like replica where visitors can contribute their change to expand the educational programs of the aquarium.

A beautifully painted mural of more whales and extraordinary polar bears augment the feeling of visiting the arctic.

It is here where I present my ticket to enter the Newport Aquarium as I begin my fantastic exploration of this award-winning attraction!

Having opened in May of 1999, the Newport Aquarium showcases fourteen permanent exhibits where visitors can learn about life in both saltwater and freshwater habitats from around the world. From freshwater to saltwater, there are over 90 species that have found a home here at the aquarium.

I am fascinated by those species that are somewhat unusual. For example, animals such as the electric white lobster live deep below the ocean. They are creatures that live in caves and require minimal light for survival, resulting in their albino-type features.

Some of my favorite exhibits at the aquarium are the tunnels made of seamless acrylic, of which there are five. The aquarium displays placards of the animals that are present in the tunnels and finding each of them is a fun way to learn about these creatures of the deep.

The Tide Pool is one of the aquarium’s interactive exhibits that allow visitors to touch some of the sea creatures such as starfish, mollusks and horseshoe crabs.

The theater is another educational feature of the aquarium where staff divers explain the habitat of the sharks and their habits.

The seahorse exhibit was one of my favorite displays where informative placards explain the behavior of these fragile creatures.

There are several tanks that contain these delicate sea animals, some so small they seem invisible.

Have you ever seen anything like the Weedy Seadragon? They are a marine fish, related to the seahorse, that camouflages itself against the sea kelp, and are indigenous to the waters of Australia.

Mighty Mike is the largest American alligator outside of Florida who resides at Gator Alley.

There is also a pair of American white alligators which were brought to the aquarium from Louisiana. Their names are Snowball and Snowflake. Albino American white alligators are very rare. It is believed that there are only 12 of these alligators in the world and each of them reside in captivity.

The Frog Bog is just around the corner and I cannot believe what I am seeing! There are so many different colors of frogs that I have to readjust my eyes to make sure they are not playing tricks on me!

Green and black…

Red…

And blue!

Canyon Falls is a habitat for otters and I have such a fun time watching them swim around in the water.

This is also the place where I find the Green Tree Python, wrapping himself around a tree branch with his green beady eyes staring me down as if I am his next meal.

But it is the chameleon that capture my attention with his crazy eyes and sweet disposition.

I exit the habitat and I pass through a tunnel, the Amazon River and meet up with the Jellyfish Gallery which is said to be the largest collection of jellyfish in the Midwest. There are several species including “the moon jelly, upside-down jellyfish, sea nettle and spotted jelly”.

I am so excited to pass through the shark tunnel! There are close to 10 different species of shark swimming alongside me as well as above me as well as grouper, stingrays and the loggerhead turtle. The experience is exhilarating!

Shark Central is an additional exhibit that allows visitors to actually pet some of the least dangerous of shark species such as the crested bull shark, the leopard shark and the sharptooth houndshark to name a few.

At last I have arrived at the Kroger Penguin Palooza where there are a number of penguin species on display including the king penguin, the chinstraps, gentoos, macaronis and rockhoppers. I love watching them in the habitat, especially when they decide to go for a swim. It is an entertaining display of nature that seems to be a favorite among the children and adults I would presume as well.

So as I stand to the side and take in the show, I am in awe of the underwater creatures of the seas and fresh waters. Whether they live in the depths of the cold or near the islands of the tropics, these animals are an essential part to the ecological system of the earth. I am happy that places like the Newport Aquarium exist to bring each of us the opportunity to experience a whole new world.

Have you visited the Newport Aquarium? What was your favorite exhibit? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my post and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Newport Aquarium

1 Aquarium Way

Newport, KY 41071

Telephone: 859 261 5888

Website: www.newportaquarium.com .