Hueston Woods State Park in College Corner, Ohio

29 September 20191 January 2025

Located in Butler County, Ohio, Hueston Woods was a family favorite for summer vacation camping. An hour and a half drive from Springfield, we would leave shortly after our father finished his work day with plenty of time to put up our tent and settle in for the evening.

The next day we would wake up early, enjoy a breakfast cooked over an open fire and then hike off our morning meal. The park offers 12 miles of trails with the longest measuring just over 2 miles. Our favorite hikes included animal sightings and a creek where we could search for crawdads. We would also search for firewood and kindling for the evening’s fire.

Although we did not own a boat, we would pack a picnic and make a trip down to the marina. On sunny days, boaters would drop off their boats, park their trailers and enjoy a day on the lake. We would also find fishing holes in the nearby coves in hopes of catching our dinner of bluegill and catfish.

On a recent visit to Hueston Woods, I noticed the beautiful covered bridge over Four Mile Creek. I couldn’t remember the bridge from our days of camping and soon learned that it was completed in 2012 to replace the previous metal bridge. The covered walkways attached to the bridge allows visitors to pass through safely.

Nearby, Historic Hopewell Church is listed as a stop on the Underground Railroad trail. Dating back to 1808, the original log church was replaced by the current brick structure in 1825. The nearby Hopewell Cemetery is the final resting place for local church attendees who died during the Civil War. Nearly 1000 locals are buried here.

Overall, my favorite memory of Hueston Woods, was the reception of my aunt and uncle’s wedding. They had met while attending the University of Miami of Ohio, so this was a perfect place to celebrate. I will never forget that it was the first time, at the age of nine, that I accidentally drank the spiked punch at the reception. I promise, it was only one sip.

Have you visited Hueston Woods near Oxford, Ohio? What memories do you have of visiting this great Ohio state park? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

What to See and What to Do:

Hueston Woods State Park
6301 Park Office Road
College Corner, OH 45003
Telephone: 513 523 6347

Where to Stay:

Hueston Woods State Park
6301 Park Office Road
College Corner, OH 45003
Telephone: 513 523 6347

Where to Eat:

The Bagel Shop and Deli
119 East High Street
Oxford, OH 45056
Telephone: 513 523 2131

Hours: Sunday and Monday from 8AM to 12 AM and Tuesday through Saturday from 8AM to 2:30AM
Tips for Your Visit: The lines can be long when the local bars close, so plan accordingly.

Nashville’s Belle Meade Plantation and Winery

22 September 201919 September 2024

A visit to Belle Meade Plantation was on the top of my list when my sister and I arrived in Nashville for a long weekend. In addition to all of the music-related attractions, we were also interested in some of the local historical sites and learned that Belle Meade was not only a plantation, but a winery and restaurant.

In the heart of the south, the grounds of this gorgeous estate are beautifully maintained and the home in pristine condition. Belle Meade’s exhibits are educational providing a detailed account of the plantation’s former owners, their everyday lives and an overview of their wide range of businesses.

I loved the simple, yet modern architecture of the home. The shuttered windows and classical columns are elements of a Greek revival façade. Under John Harding’s ownership in the early 1800’s, he grew the farm to include a blacksmith, a grist mill, saw mill and later a cotton gin.

Harding would later break into the industry of horse racing and breeding thoroughbreds. It was a home of high standing that entertained the likes of President Grover Cleveland and General Grant.

Strolling the grounds was a relaxing detour from the nightlife of Nashville’s Music Row. We had arrived early enough where we were the only visitors on the estate and embraced our own love for horses.

John’s son William took over the plantation in 1839 and continued in the business of horses, but it was in the early 1900s that the plantation would fall on hard times.

Belle Meade became famous for its thoroughbreds. In addition to racing, Belle Meade provided sire services and had many successful studs. The Enquirer (1880-1889) and Bonnie Scotland’s (1873-1879) bloodlines continue to dominate horse racing today after many generations. The Enquirer was named after Cincinnati’s newspaper and has been buried here at the plantation.

Belle Meade was, at one time, the largest plantation in the South. The Smokehouse, one of the 10 buildings that remains on the property, smoked approximately 20,000 pounds of pork each year.

The Gardener’s House and Greenhouse was one of the original buildings on the estate, a part of the Belle Meade plantation, circa 1890. The building was used as a private residence for the gardener and a location to store tools for gardening and to plant seeds for food and flowers.

The dairy supplied a variety of products such as cream, cheese, fresh milk and close to 250 pounds of butter each week.

Four generations of the Harding-Jackson families were buried in this mausoleum, designed by Nashville architect, Adolphus Heiman. Once the property was sold to Judge Jacob McGavock Dickinson, the family remains were moved to Mount Olivet Cemetery.

Belle Meade was known to have one of the largest populations of slaves who resided on its premises. After the Civil War, some of the freed slaves stayed on at the mansion to assist in the everyday tasks of keeping the plantation in business. A replica of the two room cabin offers an insight to the life of the slaves and history of slavery around the area.

In 1892, a large carriage house and stables were built at Belle Meade. The building was used to store and display the family’s carriage collection. Depending on the type of transportation, carriages would be selected for every day use such as trips into town or for special occasions when traveling to high-end social events. A 16 passenger double-decker carriage was available for a large group traveling with the family.

Visitors can explore Belle Meade Plantation on a self-guided tour or by guided tour of costumed guides for an additional cost. Specialty excursions such as Culinary Tours and, Progressive Plantation Tours can also be booked through Belle Meade.

At the end of the tour we decided to check out the restaurant’s menu, then wandered the gift shop and indulged in a free wine tasting.

The Winery at Belle Meade Plantation opened in November of 2009 producing wines from local muscadine grapes and blackberries. They offer an assortment of wines and wine-related products that are unique and native to Nashville. My absolute favorite was the Red Muscadine.

Just as John Harding had intended, Belle Meade continues to offer its visitors an assortment of quality products and services. The long time tradition of hospitality remains an integral part of the plantation as it had so many years ago.

Have you already visited the Belle Meade Plantation? I would love to hear about your experience if your would kindly leave a message below! Happy Travels!!

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

What to See and What to Do:

Belle Meade Plantation
5025 Harding Pike
Nashville, TN 37205
Telephone: 615 356 0501

Admission Fee: Mansion Tour Admission (lasts 45 minutes): $24 for adults, $20 for seniors 65+, Youth ages 6 – 18; Children 5 and under are free. Grounds Tour only: $15 for adults and $10 for youth; Segway Guided Tours: $35 for adults; Wine and Food Pairing is $35 per person; Private Tasting from $50 per person; The Battle of Nashville Tour which includes three battle sites starts at $48 per person and the one hour Journey to Jubilee Tour starts at $24 per person.
Hours: Daily from 9AM to 5PM with the exception of some holidays. Tours begin at 9:30 and the last tour of the day begins at 4PM. Belle Meade Plantation is closed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The Harding House, the on-site restaurant, provides seasonal hours, so refer to the website to confirm the hours of operation.
Amenities: Tour guides, restaurant, winery, wine tastings, self-guided tours.
Scenic View: The grounds are absolutely astounding and provide scenic views throughout the property.
Length of Visit: 3 hours to include the mansion tour, ground tour and winery tasting
Tips for Your Visit: The Journey to Jubilee tour is highly recommended which takes you through the slave exhibit. On the grounds tour you will have access to all of the out buildings as well as the previous gravesite of the owners. The winery makes a great muscadine and we enjoyed the wine tasting following our tour.

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville
310 4th Avenue, South
Nashville, TN 37201
Telephone: 615 277 5000

Where to Eat:

The Harding House at Belle Meade Plantation
5025 Harding Pike
Nashville, TN 37205
Telephone: 615 356 0096

I can’t remember the last time I had homemade meatloaf, and when I learned that it was the house specialty, I couldn’t wait to dig into some southern comfort food! I also saved room for their bread pudding.

What to Eat:

Nashville Hot Chicken: Spicy chicken
Meat and Three: A meat and three sides

What to Read:

Because You’re Mine, by Rea Frey
A Murder in Music City, by Michael Bishop
All We Ever Wanted, by Emily Giffin

Photo Guide for Nashville:

Downtown Broadway
Opryland Hotel
I Believe in Nashville mural
Ryman Auditorium
The Parthenon at Centennial Park
Draper James Building
John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

The Grand Ole Opry: A Music Legend

15 September 201919 September 2024

My youngest sister, Joy has always loved her country music and over the years, we talked about visiting Nashville. I was so excited when our schedules allowed us to book a long weekend, knowing it would be a dream come true for her. We made plans to visit the major highlights of Music City and The Grand Ole Opry was on the top of our list.

Founded in 1925 by George D. Hay, the Grand Ole Opry made its debut as a weekly hour-long barn dance on Saturday nights. The gathering eventually grew in popularity with shows lasting up to four hours. It was decided at that time that the Opry should have a more permanent home and was moved to downtown Nashville. Housed at the historical Ryman Auditorium, the Grand Ole Opry was later relocated to Opryland Drive in the mid-1970s.

I was extremely surprised to find that The Grand Ole Opry experience is not only for country music lovers. Elvis Presley gave his final performance here in 1954. Other genres of music represented at the Opry include bluegrass, folk music as well as gospel.

Within a short distance from the parking lot, we reached Opry Plaza, took a few photos and checked out the upcoming shows on the marquee. Around the corner, we reached the counter where we purchased our tickets for the next guided tour.

We were instructed to wait at the Grand Ole Opry House sign where the tour began. As other guests arrived, our guide explained the rules of the venue before we were able to enter. Waiting a few minutes for any late stragglers, we were led into the entrance for a fun, unique photo opportunity.

Holding guitars and standing near microphones, we had our photos taken at the start of the tour. We were escorted into the main facility as our guide provided a historical overview of this spectacular place. Continuing on, we noticed an outdoor garden shrine dedicated to Minnie Pearl, an American country comedian and longtime member of the Opry. When I was a child, I remembered seeing her on the country television show “Hee Haw” which was taped at this very location.

One of my favorite stops on the tour was the Grand Ole Opry Post Office. According to our guide, fan letters addressed to Grand Ole Opry inductees are delivered here and the stars can pick them up during their visit.

Another highlight of our afternoon was that we had access to the performers’ dressing rooms. Decorated in specific themes, photos of country music legends adorn the walls. It was fun to prepare for our own Grand Ole Opry debuts, as our guide allowed us to sit at the mirrors of the dressing rooms. Taking photos, we were able to memorialize our once in a lifetime experience.

My favorite dressing rooms were adorned with photos of classic country performers. One in particular was the room that showcased the famous husband and wife teams. What a tribute to some of the great artists of country music.

The dressing room decorated in creams and blues with bejeweled pillows and fancy furniture was another one of my favorites. This room represented famous women of country music to include photos of Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, Minnie Pearl and more.

Our moment had arrived as we entered the auditorium with the Grand Ole Opry stage ahead of us.

Silence fell upon the room as we walked down the aisles. An overwhelming feeling of respect and awe proceeded us as we made our way up the stairs to the stage. I couldn’t believe we would have the opportunity to stand in the exact place where so many country stars had stood before us.

Within minutes we took our place within the famous inlaid circle of wood that was once in the Ryman Auditorium. We were given the chance to sing a tune to an empty audience and it was a thrill for those who participated.

This may be the closest I ever come to fame and fortune, but believe me, it was an experience I will not soon forget. Taking our last photos, this was our final stop on the Grand Ole Opry Tour and I was just happy to have left this infamous stage on a high note.

Have you taken the Grand Ole Opry tour or sat in the audience during a concert? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my post about the Grand Ole Opry! I hope you have had the opportunity to visit here or have added this amazing place to your bucket list! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Grand Ole Opry
2804 Opryland Drive
Nashville, TN 37214
Telephone: 615 871 6779

Another reason why it was so important for us to visit The Opry, was that just a couple of years ago, the floods of Nashville nearly destroyed this historical, iconic building. We were so inspired by the country music community and their coming together to restore this magnificent music hall. It is because of them, we have the opportunity to visit The Grand Ole Opry which will forever have a place in the hearts of all music lovers.

Admission Fee: Opry House Daytime Backstage Tours run $22 to $27 dollars per person. There are additional tours of the Ryman Auditorium as well as VIP tours during the nights of performances.
Hours: Daily from 9:30 to 4PM with the exception of performance days and holidays. Please refer to the website to book tours online, or purchase tickets at the venue.
Amenities: Guides, show tickets for both the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium, Gift certificates are also available. Photos of your experience available for purchase.
Scenic View: Standing on the Grand Ole Opry stage is one of the most magnificent views of all time! They will give you the opportunity to sing from the old Ryman Auditorium circle if you are brave enough!
Length of Visit: 1 – 1.5 hours
Tips for Your Visit: It is best to purchase your tickets ahead of time, but there is also a counter to purchase your tickets onsite. Practice your favorite song should you want to sing a few bars on stage!

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn & Suites Nashville
310 4th Avenue, South
Nashville, TN 37201
Telephone: 615 277 5000

Where to Eat:

Samurai Sushi
2209 Elliston Place
Nashville, TN 37203
Telephone: 615 320 5438

I can never get enough sushi and we loved this great little restaurant in the heart of Nashville. We ordered several rolls which included the Philadephia Roll, YumYum Roll (spicy crab, cucumber, crab on top and fish roe), T.J. Roll (fried shrimp – crunch wrapped with spicy crab meat and eel sauce) and Spicy Tuna Roll and separate orders of sushi. We left the restaurant super full and satisfied.

What to Eat:

Nashville Hot Chicken: Spicy chicken
Meat and Three: A meat and three sides

What to Read:

Because You’re Mine, by Rea Frey
A Murder in Music City, by Michael Bishop
All We Ever Wanted, by Emily Giffin

Photo Guide for Nashville:

Downtown Broadway
Opryland Hotel
I Believe in Nashville mural
Ryman Auditorium
The Parthenon at Centennial Park
Draper James Building
John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge

Ohio Winery: Powell Village Craft Winery

8 September 201919 September 2024

Taking a seat at the beautiful rustic bar at Powell Village Craft Winery, I couldn’t help but notice the young lady sitting next to me talking into her phone. Overhearing her conversation, she was trying to set a date to move to Colorado. Working out the logistics, she sat in front of her computer enjoying a glass of wine.

I ordered a wine flight and soon thereafter, Katie had wrapped up her plans and made a phone call to her boyfriend to pick her up. She explained that lately she has been down on her luck and it seemed that her car wouldn’t start. Waiting at the winery, she had managed to schedule her move out of state all while enjoying a glass of Merlot. I guess her luck was starting to change.

Conveniently located in a charming suburb of Columbus, the winery, owned by Jeff and Gina Kirby, has been open for six years. Currently, they are in the process of opening another winery in Tucson, which is similar in design and construction to Powell Village and are looking to franchise the winery.

I hardly waited five minutes when the server offered to pour me a paddle wine flight or four half glasses for $15. Since there were quite a few selections that I wanted to try, I opted for the $1 per tasting. Their reserve wines and ice wines are $2 each were worth the additional cost.

Their menu included a variety of flatbreads, butcher’s block, bread and dipping oil, cheese plate, garlic bites and hummus with veggies. Perfect combinations to pair with a large assortment of wines.

Each sample was a generous one ounce pour and I began my tasting with the Pinot Noir. Medium bodied, this beautiful brownish red wine has a tangy first sip with a perfect finish.

In addition to Pinots, I love Merlots and this one caught me off guard with a sweet start but it finished with a smooth texture and taste.

Switching over to some of the sweet wines offered by Powell Village, the blackberry has a super sweet smell and a gorgeous ruby color, with a light, airy fruity taste.

I wrapped up my last three samples trying some of the lighter, fruity wines which are popular with Ohio wineries. The peach smelled like fuzzy peaches picked right off of the tree, having a thick texture with a simple fruit flavor.

The white cranberry is just as tart as one would expect but it was a perfect blend with grapes. My final sample was kiwi-pineapple, heavy on the pineapple taste yet an extremely refreshing wine.

The winery also offers seasonal sangrias like the pomegranate and cherry during the spring and summer months while the cranberry is popular for the fall. There are also wine slushies, a popular option where wine is combined with a mix and frozen as a fun, fruity drink.

In addition to Happy Hour on Fridays and Saturdays, Powell Village Craft Winery is available on Sunday and Monday for private events, while Thursdays are Ladies’ Night.

I finished my last glass of wine and Katie had finally confirmed a date for moving her belongings out west. She decided to call her boyfriend for his ETA while I purchased a bottle of Soulmate, Powell Village’s yummy Merlot. Here’s hoping that if I am ever stranded, a winery will be close by.

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

What to See and What to Do:

Powell Village Craft Winery
50 Liberty Street
Powell, Ohio 43065
Phone: 614 505 7465

Where to Stay:

Nationwide Hotel and Conference Center
100 Green Meadows Drive South
Lewis Center, OH 43035
Telephone: 855 892 4543

Where to Eat:

Powell Village Craft Winery
50 Liberty Street
Powell, Ohio 43065
Phone: 614 505 7465

Why leave when you can try one of Powell Village Craft Winery’s amazing flatbreads? We ordered the Buffalo flatbread with spicy chicken, buffalo sauce and Mozzarella cheese. They will give you ranch dressing for dipping should you need to cool the heat. Yum!

Hiking the Blackhand Gorge Trail

1 September 201916 October 2024

I absolutely love hiking Ohio and the Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve in Columbus is a perfect way to experience nature throughout the year.

Located off of I-70, west of Columbus, take I-146 West, driving 17 miles until the exit for County Road 273. There will be a sign for Toboso and Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve. I entered the town of Toboso which led me directly to the park.

After parking my car, I headed towards the log cabin which was not far from the trailhead.

Blackhand Gorge was designated as a State Nature Preserve in 1975 by then Governor, James A Rhodes.

It is easy to find the trailhead with a marker starting at Mile 0.

Located off of the main trail, there is a Quarry Rim Trail which provides a view of the quarry which was utilized in the 1800s.

I decided to forgo the Quarry Trail and take it on my way back as this trail is an in and out pathway.

I enjoyed checking out the rocks up close along the gorge to see the protruding tree roots as well as the algae growing within the ridges.

The name Blackhand comes from an ancient petroglyph, resembling a black hand that was discovered on the “Council Rock”.

Unfortunately, it was destroyed when workers set the rock to dynamite to create the Ohio-Erie Canal towpath in 1825.

One of my favorite views includes the narrow passageway where trains would pass through the gorge.

It is also exciting to see other nature lovers enjoying the path both by bike or on foot.

Blackhand Gorge State Nature preserve is also considered an interpretive trail, providing an educational overview of the area and its importance to the Native Americans and explorers that once lived here.

There is a rail system that runs above the gorge that once provided transportation to settlers and hauled rocks away from the gorge.

I learned from one of the local walkers that the benches are perfectly positioned at the mile markers and help to monitor the distance traveled.

The pathway is a quiet escape from the fast-paced everyday life and eventually the summertime leaves will block the scenic view of the Licking River.

The Licking River came into full view. I learned that there are several large birds that make this area their home, including the magnificent American Bald Eagle.

About halfway into the trail, I approached a beautiful field with trees overshadowing the backdrop.

A sign was posted to warn hikers and bikers of a recent washout. The unpaved trail is a bit rugged but not a challenge for my walk.

I finally reached mile marker 4 when it began to rain a little. I was so close to the end of the trail that I was not giving up. It will be interesting to see if the weather holds for my return trip.

As I came to the end of the Blackhand Trail, I realized I had completed 4.26 miles. I will have walked 8 and a half miles total this morning.

I was happy to capture this shot of this beautiful waterfall on my way back before heading over the Gorge Trail.

Starting the quarry trail….

Another set of stairs that took me along the rim of the quarry.

A beautiful view awaits at the top of the stairs.

I have finished the both the Blackhand Trail and the Quarry Rim Trail while successfully managing to stay somewhat dry on my hike back. I noticed some kayakers enjoying the Licking River to my left. Once I approached the parking lot, I could see them loading their kayaks.

It was a beautiful day to enjoy Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve and I had barely made it to my car escaping the deluge of rain. I was rewarded with scenic views of the quarry, sandstone outcroppings and even an eagle sighting. What an amazing way to spend my morning.

Have you visited Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve? I would love to hear about your hike, so please leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve
2200 Gratiot Road, SE
Newark, OH 43056
Telephone: 1 866 OHIOPARKS

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn Heath-Newark
1008 Hebron Road
Heath, OH 43056
Telephone: 740 788 8991

Where to Eat:

The Overlook Restaurant at the Virtues Golf Club
One Long Drive
Nashport, OH 43830
Telephone: 740 763 1100

I couldn’t resist ordering the Ginger Lime Grouper served with wild rice and the vegetable of the day (broccoli). The ginger lime sauce was full of flavor and added to the tenderness of the salmon.

Cincinnati’s Purple People Bridge

25 August 201919 September 2024

It was an overcast day when I decided to make the twenty minute drive down to Cincinnati to explore the downtown and bridges. I had already walked the Roebling Bridge and wanted to check out the “Purple People Bridge.”

Also known as the Newport Southbank Bridge, this stretch of iron connects Cincinnati to Newport, Kentucky. Initially named the L&N (Louisville & Nashville) Railroad Bridge, it was the city’s first railroad bridge opening in 1872. My favorite location to admire this beloved structure is from Yeatman’s Cove where the northside of the bridge pier originates.

One of three railway bridges, it was also traveled by pedestrians. Spanning 2,670 feet, this is the “longest connector of its kind in the country that links two states.” Remodeled in 2006, the railway as removed and the bridge was strictly a pedestrian walkway.

In 2001, the L&N Bridge was closed for automobiles and pedestrians. Spending $4 million dollars, the bridge was refurbished and reopened in 2003. Some of my favorite photos of Cincinnati have been taken from the Purple People Bridge.

While there are plenty of photos prohibiting locks on the fence and bridge rails, it has become a popular trend to commemorate a couple’s love for each other.

The bridge was named a National Historic Landmark in 2001 and is available for receptions, weddings, parties, dinners and charitable events. Spectacular views of the Cincinnati and Newport skylines await as I take the 20-minute walk from one side to the next. With so much history and a noted popular location with outdoor enthusiasts, the Newport Southbank Bridge is on the top of the list for visitors to explore. And should you become lost, ask a local to point you towards the Purple People Bridge. Rest assured, you won’t be able to miss it.

Have you strolled or biked over the Purple People Bridge? Were you traveling from Cincinnati to Newport or vice versa? I would love to hear what you thought about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my stroll over the Purple People Bridge and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cincinnati’s Purple People 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:

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.

Eden Park in Mt. Adams is the Perfect Weekend Escape from Cincinnati’s Rush Hour

18 August 201919 September 2024

After a long day of work in downtown Cincinnati, Eden Park was always one of my favorite places to escape the five o’clock traffic. From here, I could watch the barges float down the Ohio River and count the number of cars passing over the freeway into Kentucky.

The yellow Big Mac Bridge (Daniel Carter Beard Bridge) stands out with its bright color and my favorite bridge, the historic, blue John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge was once the longest suspension bridge in the world. The views from here are breathtaking, serene and the perfect spot for winding down from my work day. I reveled in the sites, watching the traffic thin out while the number of boats increased on the Ohio River.

Many times I would bring a book to read and find a seat on one of the benches surrounded by a rainbow of colorful flowers. To hear the low humming of the bee’s buzz and smell the blooms were moments of therapy and meditation. Occasionally, I would be visited by a friendly puppy out for his afternoon walk, or distracted by a jogger passing by on his afternoon run, but most of the time I found the overlook soothing and quiet.

Wondering what it would be like to visit on a weekend, I packed up a picnic lunch and set off for the park on a Sunday afternoon. Families enjoyed each other’s company as they barbequed near the parking lot at Twin Lakes . Children played on the lawn as their parents caught up with friends and family.

On Saturdays, when the park was less busy, I would stop by for a visit after enjoying some time at either the Cincinnati Art Museum or Krohn’s Conservatory. I loved driving through the grand entrance of the two small towers where eagle sculptures guarded the Melan Arch Bridge. Built in 1894, this regal gateway was the first concrete arch bridge in the state of Ohio.

The area, known as Twin Lakes, was once an old quarry. Updated to include walking paths and gardens, a footbridge was built to connect the two bodies of water. Several sculptures dedicated to the Queen City stand along the pathway where ducks enjoy floating about in the ponds as children launch their motorized boats in the water.

One of my favorite sculptures in the park is quite unique and stands out among the rest. Unlike the other statues is the Japanese man with a cormorant bird, a gift from Cincinnati’s sister city, Gifu, Japan.

According to the Japanese tradition of ukai, the fisherman would first tie a leash around the bird which would then dive for a fish, catching it in its throat. Unable to swallow the fish because of the tie around its neck, the fisherman would release the fish from the bird’s mouth for his own.

Another beautiful art piece in the park was a gift from Rome, Italy, a replica statue of the Capitoline Wolf. The city of Cincinnati was named after Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus, a Roman statesman and aristocrat, so it only seems fitting that Cincinnati would receive this sculpture from it’s sister city, Rome. The Capitoline wolf was the legendary mother of the ancient city’s founders, Romulus and Remus.

Within walking distance of the Twin Lakes is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. From the park, I took a set of stairs to the Melan Arch Bridge where I stopped for a moment to admire the eagle statues. Nearby was a pathway leading to the monument which stood in memory of those who served in the Vietnam war.

Leaving the park’s center, I approached the ruins of the Eden Park Reservoir. Built between the years 1866 and 1878, designed by Samuel Hannaford, this architectural wonder once took up the space of 12 acres and held 96 million gallons of water. Only a small section remains of the jagged rock ruins that could have easily been mistaken as an ancient Roman relic.

Turning around to retrace my steps, I noticed a large red tower standing over me. Water was once pumped into this stand pipe from the Ohio River. Once designed to hold water for local residents, it is another reminder of Cincinnati’s architectural past and industrial advancements.

From the reservoir ruins, I walked the open field of grass which once contained water for local residents. At the end of the park is Mirror Lake and its tall fountain which surges 40 feet high. A paved walking path surrounds the perimeter of the lake with spectacular views of the city. A popular location for runners, joggers and pet walkers on a sunny day, I have come to enjoy its tranquil atmosphere watching the ducks bathe and and feeling the sun’s warm rays on my face.

Nearby Spring House Gazebo is perfect for shade against the sun or unexpected rain. It is the oldest structure in the park, standing here since the early 1900s.

The history of Eden Park is interesting in the fact that this land was once owned by Nicholas Longworth, “Father of the American wine Industry”. Grape vines once covered this landscape where Longworth developed the Catawba grape and produced America’s first champagne.

Today aver 186 acres of Longworth’s property has been converted into an urban park, home to some of Cincinnati’s most influential artistic institutions. Here you can find the Cincinnati Art Museum, the Krohn Conservatory and Cincinnati’s Playhouse in the Park. Open all year around, this park is the perfect place to visit regardless of the season, and don’t forget to check out nearby Mt. Adams.

What is your favorite spot in Eden Park? Do you like visiting during the busy season or do you find it a wonderful place of solitude? I would love to hear your thoughts about Eden Park if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Maybe you have another Cincinnati Park that I should visit, let me know and I would love to explore it as well! Many thanks for taking this journey with me to Eden Park! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Eden Park
950 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 352 4080

Admission Fee: There is no admission fee to visit Eden Park.
Hours: Open daily from 6AM to 10PM
Amenities: A gazebo, walking paths, Memorial Lake and Bettman Fountain at Hinkle Magnolia Garden; Twin Lakes with a footbridge, walking paths, scenic views of the Ohio River, a number of sculptures, a picnic area, amphitheater and a playground for children.
Scenic View: Spectacular views of the Ohio River and the state of Kentucky cross the river.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Sundays afternoons can be crowded at the Twin Lakes. This is also a popular place on the weekends for brides to be posing for wedding photos.

Where to Stay:

Springhill Suites by Marriott Cincinnati Midtown
610 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 381 8300

Where to Eat:

Terrace Cafe
953 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 639 2986

I enjoyed an afternoon lunch at the Terrace Cafe located inside of the Cincinnati Art Museum. Visiting several times, my favorite menu items are the Pear Salad, with winter pears, craisin, feta cheese, candied walnuts and raspberry vinaigrette and the Chicken Salad Sandwich of diced chicken, carrots, chives, celery, lemon aioli, aged white cheddar, lettuce, and tomato on a toasted croissant. Enjoy!

What to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

AC Hotel Rooftop Bar
135 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 744 9900

What to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide to Cincinnati:

City Hall – Inside and Out
Smale Riverfront Park
Union Terminal
Roebling Suspension Bridge
Washington Park
Krohn Conservatory
American Sign Museum

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

Elsinore Arch built in 1883

Beautiful Flowers at Eden Park

Twin Lakes at Eden Park

Ducks Enjoying Twin Lakes

Stairs Leading to Melan Arch Bridge

Another view of the reservoir structure located at Eden Park

Welcome to Eden Park

Views of Mt. Adams from the reservoir ruins at Eden Park

The view of the Eden Park fountain from the ruins of the reservoir

A lock that was added to the fencing that once surrounded Eden Park’s reservoir

The Timeless Beauty of the Amalfi Coast

4 August 201918 September 2024

Arriving into the port of Naples, I quickly noticed a clear distinction between the ancient city and its modern metropolis. Commercial vessels, cruise ships and fishing boats lined up along the pier as passengers and merchandise came ashore. Several ships transported tourists to the local islands while buses waited at the entrance of the port for day trippers to explore the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii.

The cruise ship, Pullmantur Sovereign, offered several interesting excursions for the day and it was difficult to decide between the Amalfi Coast drive or a day in Capri. I was also interested in Pompeii but in the end, I chose the coastal drive to explore Amalfi, Sorrento and a drive through Positano.

The Amalfi Coast was once a luxury getaway for the Caesars of Rome with its aquamarine seas and picturesque cliffs. The dramatic coastline extends about 67 miles with hairpin turns and dangerous switchbacks while precipitous cliffs vertically plunge into the sea. Charming hillside towns miraculously appear along the route with their colorful, picturesque exteriors.

We were about 45 minutes from our first stop and in the distance I could see the islands of Procida, Capri and Ischia. The morning haze had lifted and glimpses of the spectacular vistas began to appear.

Looking out the window of the bus, I found myself lost in the stunning villages with their picturesque harbors, high cliffs and coves. I imagined renting a sailboat and leisurely coasting along the shoreline in pursuit of an outdoor restaurant or a private beach for an afternoon of rest and relaxation.

I could hardly contain my excitement as the bus passed road signs directing us towards the charming town of Sorrento, known for its production of limoncello.

Once we arrived, we began our walk towards the center of town. Narrow alleyways branched off from the plaza filled with outdoor restaurants and souvenir shops. Fruit stands overflowing with colorful produce and limoncello were popular stops along the thoroughfare. Limoncello, a lemon liquor made from local Femminello St. Teresa lemons, was handed out in plastic cups for tourists to sample before buying.

Overlooking the Bay of Naples, Sorrento’s warm, year-around climate and dramatic views make it a popular vacation spot. Piazza Tasso (Tasso Square) is surrounded by bright pastel buildings and ceramic displays hanging from its exterior walls. A statue of St. Anthony, the patron saint of the town, stands guard within the square. Buses make a quick stop to pick up passengers visiting Marina Piccola or Via Capo. The plaza, vibrant with tourists and locals, is the heart of this coastal town.

I bought a few bottles of limoncello to take back home as gifts and browsed the ceramic pieces which were absolutely stunning. Our next stop brought us to the town of Amalfi, once an important trading port along the Mediterranean.

The winding road of Strada Statale 163 (SS 163) is the connection between Amalfi and Sorrento. Built during the Roman Empire, the roadway is exceptionally narrow with views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The passage is carved among the cliffs with tunnels that frame the breathtaking views. Before reaching Amalfi, the road passes through Positano, a picturesque village on a hill, which is the coast’s most photogenic town.

Before we entered the tunnel that led to Amalfi, a traffic jam brought our bus to a complete stop. Our tour guide offered us the chance to take the walkway down to the harbor or we could stay on the bus until the traffic subsided. Unanimously, our group was happy to exit the bus to stretch our legs and start the hike towards the shore.

Amalfi was once a maritime superpower in the 10^th and 11^th centuries with its multiple trade routes rivaling those of Genoa, Pisa and Venice. Once a population of more than 70,000, the laid-back, humble Amalfi of today is home to about 5,000 residents who depend on tourism to survive. With one main street connecting the waterfront to the valley, visitors can easily walk from one end to the other in about 20 minutes.

We reached the tranquil cove where sailboats were anchored and motorboats docked. I was mesmerized by the sun’s rays and the images reflecting off of the sea. Peaceful and calm, I could have stood in this spot for the remainder of the day.

From the harbor, we crossed the street entering the Piazza del Duomo. My eyes were immediately drawn to the Cattedrale di Sant’Andrea (Duomodi Amalfi). The basilica, built between 1000 to 1300 AD, is dedicated to the apostle Andrew, the brother of St. Peter. It is believed that the remains of St. Andrew were brought to Amalfi during the Crusades and is buried in the Crypt within the cathedral.

The Boutique Coralli e Cammei is known for its ceramic merchandise and dates back to 1885. On my way out, I enjoyed shopping among the tiles, dishes, flower pots and artwork.

It was time for us to meet at the mossy fountain before boarding the bus. Across the street I caught one last glimpse of the harbor and looked forward to the scenic ride back to the ship.

I imagine Capri is absolutely fabulous and that the Pompeii ruins are incredible, but I could not have picked a better day to have explored the Amalfi Coast.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Amalfi Coast? Which towns were your favorite? I would love to hear about your visit to southern Italy if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my day exploring the Amalfi Coast and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Limonoro
Via San Cesareo 49/53
80067 Sorrento Italy
Telephone: +39 081 878 5348

The go-to shop for purchasing limoncello! Yum!

Amalfi Cathedral (Duomo di Sant’Andrea)
Via Duca Mansone I
84011 Amalfi, SA, Italy
Telephone: +39 089 873558

Admission Fee: 3 Euros to visit the church and the museum
Hours: 10AM to 5PM
Scenic View: A lovely view of the piazza from the stairs leading into the basilica.
Amount of Time to Visit: 30 minutes to an hour
Tips for Your Visit: The Cloister of Paradise leads into the museum of the Basilica of the Crucifix and the relics of St. Andrew, the Apostle of Christ.

Where to Stay:

Plaza Sorrento – in Sorrento
Via Fuorimura, 3
80067 Sorrento (Napoli) Italy
Telephone: +39 081 8073942

Hotel Aurora – in Amalfi
Piazzale dei Protontini, 7
84011, Amalfi, Italy
Telephone: +39 089 871209

Il San Pietro di Positano – in Positano
Via Laurito, 2
84017 Positano, Italy
Telephone: +39 089 812 080

Where to Eat:

Terrazza Bosquet at Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria – in Sorrento
Piazza Tasso, 34
80067, Sorrento, Italy
Telephone: +39 081 877 71 11

It became a joke between my boyfriend, David and I that I had never visited a Michelin star restaurant for dinner, so for a lovely surprise during our stay in Sorrento, David took me to Terrazza Bosquet.

For a starter, we ordered the Saffron Marinated Sea Bass with Smoked Provolone cheese and black truffle and for dinner I ordered the Spaghetti with Tomatoes and Basil, while I encouraged David to order the Tasting Menu (105 Euros) for various options to sample. For wine, we ordered the Malbec Riserva, 2012 Domaine Bousquet. What an incredible experience!

Ristorante Eolo – in Amalfi
Via Pantaleone Comite, 3
84011 Amalfi SA, Italy
Telephone: +39 089 871241

We had eaten a late lunch, so we decided to enjoy one of the restaurant’s sumptuous desserts and a bottle of wine! We each ordered the chocolate bombe with raspberry sauce with gold shavings. Perfect with our wine, Passopisciaro Passorosso 2015 from Mt. Etna in Sicily.

Da Adolfo – in Positano
Via Laurito 40,
Positano, italy
Telephone: +39 089 875 022

To reach this amazing, historical restaurant, you have to take a five minute boat ride from the port of Positano. The menu is limited, but we LOVED the mussels and Adolfo’s chicken….and of course, the local wine!

What to Eat:

Delizia al limone: A signature dish of the Amalfi Coast, this decadent dessert is made from lemons, limoncello, eggs, sugar and flour.
Goat cheese from Monti Lattari: One of the most exclusive cheeses from this area and is found in most local restaurants.
Limoncello: This after dinner drink is prepared using local lemons.
Mozzarella cheese: Produced from both cow milk and buffalo milk, this mild cheese is best eaten plain at room temperature.
Pasta: The region of Campania is known for making its own extraordinary pasta.
Provolone del Monaco: Another cheese from this region, this semi-hard cheese can be eaten raw
Scialatielli ai frutti de mare: Translated as traditional pasta with seafood, this dish was made famous by local chef Enrico Cosentino in the 1960s.
Spaghetti alla Nerano: Spaghetti noodles cooked with zucchini, provolone and topped with basil. Nerano is the name of the city where this dish was created.
Wines from Tramonti, Ravello and Furore

What to Read:

My Amalfi Coast: Travel Edition by Amanda Tabberer
Gelato Sisterhood on the Amalfi Shore by Chantal Kelly
The House in Amalfi by Elizabeth Adler
Amalfi Blue: Lost & Found in the South of Italy by Lisa Fantino

Photo Guide for the Amalfi Coast:

Spaggia Grande in Positano: Classic photo against the backdrop of colorful cliffside houses…stunning photography.
The Staircase at the Duomo in Amalfi: Pose on the steps for an iconic photo.
Villa Cimbrone in Ravello: The Terrace of Infinity provides views of endless blue with Roman statue in the background.
The Streets of Vietri sul Mare: Capture the charm of this colorful waterfront village.
The Fjords in Furore: Pose against the beautiful scenery of the cove and the amazing bridge in the background.
The Beach in Atrani: Pink buildings provide the perfect contrast with the blue umbrellas on the beach.
Colorful Coastal Fruit: Stop along the charming seaside towns and their fruit stands for colorful photos.

A Fountain in Amalfi

An Awesome Approach to Wine Tasting…Blend of Seven Winery

30 July 201915 February 2025

When I arrived at Blend of Seven Winery, I could not have imagined what I would learn about wine this afternoon. Taking a seat at the busy bar, I was in for an unforgettable wine tasting experience.

Located on a quiet, country road in Delaware, Ohio, Blend of Seven has a sweet beginning that centralizes around the importance of family. “It was how we came up with the name of our winery.” said Steve, co-owner and winemaker. “When Sandi and I married, our blended family totaled seven with my three children and her two”.

You will notice that many of the wines are named after their children and their grandchildren as well.

Steve takes pride in his ability to create unique wines that would make even Willy Wonka proud.

So it came as a surprise when I learned that Steve was not always a wine drinker. He quickly credits his wife, Sandi for introducing him to wine and he was hooked. On one of their dates, they decided to visit a winery and for Steve’s next birthday, Sandi bought him a wine making kit. After a couple of years of developing their own wines, they opened a winery on London Road and the Blend of Seven Winery had its start.

The winery shortly grew out of their space and they had to find another location to expand. They purchased the property once home to historic Delaware restaurant, The Branding Iron. After months of renovations, the Blend of Seven Winery reopened in October of 2015.

What I find fascinating about Steve is his unique, fun-loving approach to introducing his wines. With so many varieties on his list, I asked him to select the best sellers and I decided to start from there.

Kimmie K, a sweet wine, was my first pour. This is a “Cabernet Sauvignon with acai berry and raspberry with a hint of chocolate”. After taking a sip of this delicious wine, Steve brought over a piece of dark chocolate and told me to take another taste after eating the candy. I was blown away by how the chocolate changed the flavor of the wine.

I have always been a fan of the Pinot Noirs, Merlots and Malbecs, but living in Ohio, there are so many sweet wine selections that I have come to enjoy these wines as well. For my next selection, Steve suggested that I sample his signature concord wine, Trouble and I enjoyed drinking this intoxicating grape juice.

Blend of Seven is known for developing wines from a wide range of fruit, so I decided it was time to try Ricki’s Peach Tree. Served chilled it is described as an “amazing blend [that] tastes like peach right off the tree,” Steve suggested I close my eyes, imagine that I was in Georgia and that I would “feel the fuzz on the roof of my mouth.”

My next selection was the semi-dry, Blue-Eyed Beauties, a Niagara wine with blueberry added. The taste of the berry really comes out with this wine.

One of Blend of Seven’s specialty wines is the Coconut Wonder which is a “refreshing blend of coconut and pineapple”. I had not thought about fermenting coconut, so I was curious to try a sample. I could taste the coconut, but it was the pineapple that gave this wine its boost of sweetness. Pair this wine with a piece of dark chocolate and you have an “Almond Joy”.

Steve had one more trick up his sleeve when he provided me with a generous pour of Tosha’s Chaos. Described as a sweet wine with a unique blend of raspberry and a cotton candy aroma, I could have sworn I was drinking a Jolly Rancher.

I had completed my list of wine selections, and Steve asked if I would be interested in trying another creation he co-developed with a local ice cream maker. He returned with a container of homemade blackberry ice cream and poured Kimmie K over it. Steve also combines his concord wine, Trouble with peanut butter ice cream and Ricki’s peach tree with vanilla ice cream for an “adult float” type of dessert.

My visit to the Blend of Seven Winery was mind-blowing, and I left amazed at the various ways non-traditional foods and wines could be paired together. I also admired the laid-back atmosphere and Steve’s exceptional technique of thinking outside of the box. He doesn’t take his job too seriously, just serious enough to keep Blend of Seven Winery in business and surprising their patrons with new and improved combinations. I say with deep respect and admiration that he is the Willy Wonka of Winemakers.

Blend of Seven Winery is also very generous and holds charity events to give back to various organizations such as the Wounded Warrior project. They also sponsor a chili cook off each fall where the winner can decide which charity to support in place of winnings. Each year, at the end of May, the winery invites all of its customers to an anniversary party which lasts a full day with plenty of food, music and of course, fabulous wine.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Blend of Seven Winery? 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 outrageous visit at Blend of Seven Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels! Cheers!

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Steve and Sandi for their time and hospitality during my visit. Please note that all comments provided were based solely upon my own opinions and experience.

What to See and What to Do:

Blend of Seven Winery
1400 Stratford Road
Delaware, OH 43015
Telephone: 740 417 4286

Hours: The winery is open from 3 PM – 8:30 PM from Tuesday through Thursday, 3 PM – 9 PM on Friday, 12 PM to 9PM on Saturday. Kitchen closes at 8:15 PM Tuesday through Thursday and closes at 8:45 PM on Friday and Saturday. The winery is closed on Monday. Please refer to the winery’s website for any updates to its hours of operation and list of entertainment/activities.
Amenities: Weekend entertainment, dining, wine tastings, wine, private events, and scheduled events such as Thirsty Thursday, Canvas & Wine, Sip & Craft, Movie and Popcorn Dinner Nights and Sip & Mani
Tips for Your Visit: During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings are not available. As always, please drink responsibly.

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn Columbus/Delaware
7329 State Route 36 & 37
Sunbury, OH 43074
Telephone: 740 363 4700

Where to Eat:

Bun’s Restaurant
14 W. Winter Street
Delaware, OH 43015
Telephone: 740 363 3731

You can’t miss the sign for Bun’s in the charming town of Delaware. I wanted to stop in for a small bite to eat at the bar and ordered the Tzatziki & Hummus. Served with pita bread, one can also request an order for vegetables for an additional charge.

Here are more of my favorite Columbus Classics:

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: Known for her unique flavor combinations, Jeni Britton Bauer has made ice cream famous in C-Bus!
North Market: A one-stop shop for universal cuisine, Columbus’ North Market is worth a stop in the Short North District of the city.
The Thurman Cafe: The Thurmanator is the burger of all burgers at this longtime local cafe in German Village. There may be a wait all burgers are made to order.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant: While the sausage at Schmidt’s is the official food of Columbus, it’s the amazing Cream Puffs that have the locals lining up at the door.

What to Read:

Columbus: The Story of a City, by Ed Lentz
Columbus, Ohio: A Photographic Portrait, by Randall L Schieber and Robin Smith
Ohio in Photographs: A Portrait of the Buckeye State, by Ian Adams
Secret Columbus, by Anietra Hamper

Photo Guide for Columbus:

Coffman Park: small ponds, bridges, white barn, pavilion, landscaping, public art
Columbus Museum of Art: the grounds, inside artwork and special exhibits
Everal Barn and Homestead: landscaping, white barn, beautiful lake
Frank Fetch Park: gardens, brick paths, beautiful trees and landscaping
Franklin Park Conservatory: beautiful gardens, artwork, flowers and special exhibits
Gantz Park: barn, beautiful trees,
German Village: brick streets, landscaping, parks, charming architecture, Old World charm, historical buildings
Grove City: brick roads, small town, shopping area
Hayden Falls: wooden walking path, waterfall
Historical Village of Hilliard: a small village to include a schoolhouse, train car, chapel, log cabin, covered bridge, gazebo and granary
Homestead Park in Hilliard: walking path, covered bridge, barns, trains, tractor, pond and pet park
Inniswood Metro Gardens: gardens, lily pond, herb garden, play area for children, secret garden
Ohio State House: rotunda and landscaping (photo permit required)
Ohio State University: campus, landscaping, Mirror Lake, Ohio Stadium (you can pay a small fee to take photos inside)
Park of Roses in Clintonville: various types of rose gardens
Riverfront Park: city view, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Schiller Park: gardens, walking paths, stone columns, wooden bridge, small lake
Scioto Mile: city views, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
Scioto Park in Dublin: statue of Chief Leatherlips, river views, landscaping, and paths
Short North: restaurants, italian village, shops, city views, murals
Topiary Park: depiction of George Seurat’s 1884 painting, landscape, fountains, small pond, gazebo

Three Money-Saving Tips for Booking a European Cruise

23 July 201918 September 2024

Update on December 2020: Pullmantur Cruise Lines was heavily affected by COVID-19. They are partnering with Royal Caribbean to reorganize the company but currently not offering cruise vacations.

A great way to experience the Mediterranean coast is by booking a cruise. With so many cruise lines providing itineraries of The Med, I have provided some tips that should help point you in the right direction. So don’t delay and and book your next unforgettable vacation.

Tip #1: Try a wholesale online cruise provider. My go-to website for inexpensive cruises is vacationstogo.com. My favorite part of this site is the 90-Day Ticker for last minute cruises at a discounted rate. Just select the information provided under “Find a Bargain” to assist you in locating the type of cruise that suits you. Once you have entered the appropriate data, the site will list the cruises that meet your criteria. To sign up for this service, all that is required is your email address and then you will have a variety of cruises at your disposal.

Have you heard of Pullmantur, Fred Olsen or Costa cruise lines? These are just a few of the international companies that offer fabulous cruise itineraries with headquarters located in Europe. Which brings me to…

Tip #2: Don’t limit yourself to US-based cruise ships!

I was able to save a significant amount of money on a European cruise from a company based in Barcelona. The catch? Well, the primary language of the ship was Spanish, but all announcements are then followed up in English. So bring out your adventurous side and practice your Spanish skills. Another bonus for booking with an international-based company is that beer, wine and mixed drinks may be included in the price of your cruise which also means no extra surprises when settling your bar bill.

So you have found the perfect itinerary. You love all of the ports of call, but you really wish you could spend more time in one port versus another. No problem!

Tip #3: Did you know that you may be able to board the ship in another city or country other than the primary embarkation location? I recently cruised aboard the Pullmantur Sovereign with an itinerary that originated in Barcelona, but since I had already spent time here, I really wanted to spend more time in Rome. So, on the day of embarkation, I was surprised to learn that I was only 1 of 100 that boarded the ship that day….no lines and no waiting. I would highly recommend checking this out.

Booking a cruise through the Mediterranean can leave you wondering where to start, but using a tip or two provided here may relieve some of your stress. I have recently written a couple of posts about my first time trip to Rome, so check it out. I have also covered the remaining ship’s itinerary in posts which include the ports of Barcelona, Livorno (tour to Pisa and Lucca), Naples (the Amalfi Coast), and Villafranche (Monaco and Monte Carlo)!

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