Indian Bear Winery in Walhonding, Ohio, NOW INDIAN BEAR CORK AND COFFEE

25 June 201616 March 2025

Update: The Indian Bear Winery is now Indian Bear Cork and Coffee

Update: On June 4th, 2023, a fire broke out at Indian Bear Winery and the structure was destroyed by the fire.

Update: On September 20, 2022, Indian Bear Lodge & Winery announced that they were under contract to sell 97 acres to “Because I Said I Would”, a non-profit organization making an impact on the local youth.

Indian Bear Winery is one of the most beautiful locations to sample wines in Ohio. A beautiful, country setting on two-hundred plus acres is only an hour east of Columbus and began as lodge in 2001.

From the moment I pulled onto the gravel drive, my senses were on full alert. The smell of fresh cut grass led me to sprawling acres and a lake where a teepee stood at its water’s edge.

It was early spring so the vineyards were just beginning to bloom and would be ready for harvest in the fall. Trellises supported a wide range of wine varietals, including those from Ohio.

In the summer of 2014, the owners, Brad Collins and Tom Lechner planted Concord, Seyval and Vidal grapes. Until the vines began producing fruit, the owners imported juices from California, Chile and New York to begin their wine making process. Head winemaker, Joe Hollabaugh will be creating new wines for the winery.

Approaching the entrance into the winery, I couldn’t help but notice its beautiful red and gray exterior. The building was completed by April 2015 and soon thereafter, was open to the public. The winery entered the 2015 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition and won a Gold Medal for their “Roscoe’s Red Blend” as well as a Bronze Medal for their Vidal Blanc.

The tasting room was even more extravagant with its rustic, architecture and country decor displayed in its large exposed beams and expansive stone flooring. The hand-written list of available wines in addition to their wine tasting costs were posted above the service area.

I completed the laminated menu and decided on the 3 for $5 samples selecting the Peach Apricot Crush, American Vidal Blanc and the American Carmenere Reserve.

At the last minute, I included the Red Berry Crush slushie which tasted like heaven.

With my slushie in hand, I took the stairs to explore the areas available for private and semi-private events. On-site lodges provide accommodations for guests who wish to stay at the property. There are also two carriage houses and four cabins to sleep a total of more than 100 guests. From the second story deck, I could look out for miles into the countryside.

My favorite part of the decor were the oak barrels that are typically used for fermenting and storage.

Returning to the first level of the winery, I was in complete awe of the spectacular stone handiwork of the fireplace flanked by two storage compartments for firewood. I reached out to touch the smoothly sanded wood planks for the mantle which were designed from beams from a local area barn.

In addition to the interior, Indian Bear Winery has several outdoor settings including a fire pit. I found a stone bench to finish up my drink and could hear the visitors as they discussed their weekend plans. As I enjoyed the beauty of Indian Bear Winery, I could also hear the large tractor approaching as it mowed the high blades near the tasting room and I could once again smell the scent of freshly cut grass.

Have you visited Indian Bear Winery? What wines did you enjoy? 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 Indian Bear Winery along the Three Rivers Wine Trail and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Indian Bear Winery
3483 McCament Road
Walhonding, Ohio 43843
Telephone: 740 507 3322

Open Fridays from 3:00pm to 10:00pm and Saturdays from 12:00pm to 10:00pm.

Where to Stay:

Indian Bear Winery
3483 McCament Road
Walhonding, Ohio 43843
Telephone: 740 507 3322

Where to Eat:

Indian Bear Winery
3483 McCament Road
Walhonding, Ohio 43843
Telephone: 740 507 3322

Open Fridays from 3:00pm to 10:00pm and Saturdays from 12:00pm to 10:00pm.

For appetizers, they make a gorgeous charcuterie board, fittingly called, “The Napa.” A popular choice on the menu is Alfredo Chips- homemade kettle chips topped with alfredo sauce, blue cheese and green onions.

Featured Ohio Winery: Mon Ami Winery, now Gideon Owen Wine Company

18 June 201616 September 2024

Update: Mon Ami Winery is now Gideon Owen Wine Company

Sumptuous smells of garlic and cheese reached the table within seconds before my pizza arrived. I ordered the Margherita Pizza, a glass of Concord and the menu’s recommended wine pairing, Pinot Noir. I had just spent the Labor Day weekend exploring nearby Lake Erie’s Put-in-Bay and planned to stop for lunch at one of Ohio’s oldest and largest wineries, Mon Ami Restaurant and Historic Winery.

I arrived early passing through the Mon Ami arch to avoid the Saturday night crowd. Mon Ami’s weekend entertainment and decadent seafood buffet can leave visitors waiting hours for a table.

The dramatic façade of the winery, constructed of limestone and sand, was designed and built by George Loeb. Construction of the initial structure began in the 1850s, but was halted during the Civil War, becoming a temporary, make-shift prison for the Confederates. The building was finally completed in 1872.

The history of Mon Ami began in 1873 when a cooperation of grape growers and vintners established Catawba Island Wine Company. While Prohibition saw the closing of many Ohio wineries, Mon Ami survived by producing and selling altar wine. Generating 130,000 gallons of wine, the estate was purchased by Mon Ami Champagne Company in 1937, one of the few American wineries producing the finest champagne.

The fire of 1945 destroyed much of the upper rooms of the original winery and it was at this time, Mon Ami decided to open its restaurant, collaborating with the local Zapone family. Mon Ami continues its tradition of offering up-scale cuisine in its Main Dining room with a selection to include Alaskan crab, Prime Rib and Executive Chef specials. Sommology recommendations are listed on Mon Ami’s menu, making it easy to decide which wine to pair with one’s food order.

The Chalet offers a more casual seating environment with live Jazz on Sundays and additional entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights.

I passed on dessert so that I could sample some of Mon Ami’s wine in the wine tasting room. Tasting Flights range from $5 – $7 or $1 per wine and an additional charge for dessert wines, liquors and champagne. I was so excited to sample the limoncello in additional to some of my favorite wine varietals.

Mon Ami’s spectacular collection of wines include California premium wines of Chardonnay, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and Zinfandel in addition to their Ohio line of estate wines such as Proprietor’s Reserve Chardonnay and Cabernet, Riesling, Gewurtztraminer and Pinot Noir.

Mon Ami Winery hosts, on average, seven weddings over a weekend not to mention additional banquets and special celebrations throughout the year. From photographs in the arbor and rose garden or weddings in the wine cellar, the winery offers a wide range of on-site venues to celebrate that perfect occasion.

I inquired about the Loretta Pagnini Cooking School which features demonstrations and classes taught by Pagnini, a teaching chef who offers cooking tips, teaches a wide range of kitchen techniques. I knew that this would be a wonderful experience for a weekend with the girls.

Have you visited Mon Ami Winery? What was your favorite part of your visit? Dinner? Wine Tasting? 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 fun afternoon at Mon Ami Restaurant and Historical Winery and wishing you Many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Mon Ami Restaurant & Historic Winery
9845 East Wine Cellar Road
Port Clinton, OH 43452
Telephone: 419 797 4445

The winery is open seven days a week, but the hours differ from the Winter to the Summer season, so check their website for hours of operation. Reservations are only taken on select holidays (Easter, Mother’s and Father’s Day, Thanksgiving, New Year’s Eve), so it is first-come, first-served. For Holiday Reservations call 419 797 4445.

Many stores throughout Ohio carry the popular Mon Ami wines, but purchases can also be made through Mon Ami’s online store.

Where to Stay:

South Beach Resort
8620 E. Bayshore Rd.
Marblehead, OH 43440
Hotel Reservations; 419 798 4900
Cottage Reservations: 419 798 5503

Where to Eat:

Mon Ami Restaurant & Historic Winery
9845 East Wine Cellar Road
Port Clinton, OH 43452
Telephone: 419 797 4445

During the weekends, Mon Ami hosts a seafood buffet on Saturday and Sunday brunch which are both very popular. Arrive early!

What to Eat:

Assiette de Fromage (Cheese Plate) from L’Albratos for a wide ranges of cheese
Barberton-style Fried Chicken, made from a Serbian recipe is an amazing dish from White House Chicken in nearby Barberton, Ohio
Beef Cheek Pierogie’s from Michael Symon’s Lola
Corned Beef Sandwiches from Slyman’s
Polish Boy at Seti’s is a kielbasa topped with meat, coleslaw and ketchup.
Pierogie’s from Sokolowski’s University Inn
Veal Parmesan at Trattoria on the Hill in Cleveland’s Little Italy neighborhood

Hafle Winery in Springfield Offering a Great Selection of Ohio Wines – NOW CLOSED

11 June 201616 March 2025

Springfield, Ohio is making its mark on the Ohio wine industry with the re-opening of Haflé Winery in 2015. Many residents may remember the winery which once occupied the estate located on Upper Valley Pike in the 1970’s. For many wine enthusiasts and local residents in the surrounding area, this was a welcome comeback.

Family-owned and operated, Haflé Winery is a quaint winery and restaurant offering a unique selection of wines, as well as a full-service bar. Located in the northwest region of town, the lovely estate and winery resides in a rural setting surrounded by a dense forest of fifty acres.

There was a comfortable, cozy feeling as I entered the dimly lit wine tasting area and bar. I took a seat and placed my order for a glass of wine. I sipped on a White Zinfandel by Vista Point and began a conversation with the patrons who make Haflé Winery a weekly stop each Tuesday. With beer specials and discounts on wine, I could choose from over 40 wines available to sample before making my purchase. The best deal at Hafle is a flight of five wines (with generous pours) for ten dollars.

The wine menu was unique in the fact that it offered Ohio-made wines in addition to amazing reds and whites from all over the US. I learned from one of the customers sitting beside me that Dan Haflé, Jr., the owner, was working behind the bar. Mr. Haflé helped me choose five samples according to my wine preference and he was eager to tell me about the history of his family’s winery.

Without a moment of hesitation and while keeping up with his clients at the bar, Dan explained that it was his father, Dan Sr., who first came up with the idea of opening a winery in the late 1960s. According to Dan, his father had a friend in fellow farmer Ken Schuchter who also shared his passion for drinking wine. They would both soon turn their love of wine into a business with Haflé Winery based in Springfield and Valley Vineyards in Morrow. By 1969, Dan Sr., planted his first vines and through trial and error successfully began producing his own wine and so it was there in 1974 that the original winery came into existence. Over the next 20 years, the Haflé family would find themselves in a continuous struggle to grow grapes in the soil of this region, and by 1994, the outlook seemed bright. And just when the business was continuing to grow, the EPA presented them with another challenge. With the expansion of the winery, the EPA determined that the current sewer structure was inadequate. The Haflés would either need to pay for their own stand-alone system or connect to the city which would cost them thousands of dollars. Due to the complicated logistics and expense of the agency’s requirements, the Haflés were forced to close their doors for business in the mid-90s.

Fast forward twenty years later and Dan Haflé, Jr. has revived Hafle Winery having re-opened in 2015.

And as I sat on the edge of my seat throughout Dan’s amazing story, my flight of wine had already been poured. I chose the Vista Point Merlot, a red wine from the Napa Valley of California.

The next glass was the Dark Horse Petite Sirah (dry) from Modesto, California.

Next I sampled a local Ohio winery, the Rodeo Red (semi sweet) from the Winery at Versailles and then the Mon Ami Concord (sweet), also an Ohio wine.

My final selection was the St. James Blackberry wine (sweet) from St. James, Missouri and I determined that the Rodeo Red from Versailles was my favorite wine from the flight.

I decided to order dinner before the kitchen closed and was excited to try a thin crust pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and fresh basil. The specials for the night included a Cuban Sandwich ($12), Blackened Tuna Dinner for $15 and Black Bean soup.

I leisurely enjoyed my wine and soaked up the atmosphere while continuing my conversation with Dan. He explained to me that during the warmer months, the winery offers outdoor seating and scheduled entertainment. They also supply steaks and seafood that customers can cook on the grill.

It was an incredible evening of drinking wine, catching up with old friends and making new ones.

It is true that Ohio is becoming more recognized as a state producing award winning wines. In addition to the wide selection of wines, what makes Haflé Winery unique is that it holds liquor licenses to both produce its own wine as well as serve liquor in its establishment. And although outsiders may recognize Haflé Winery as a newcomer to Ohio’s wine industry, they will be surprised that it has a rich history of winemaking all its own.

Do you have a favorite winery in Ohio that you like to visit? Have you visited Haflé Winery and would like to share you experience? 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 Haflé Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Haflé Winery
2369 Upper Valley Pike
Springfield, OH
Telephone: 937 399 1221

Hours: The winery is open from 5 PM to 9 PM on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; 5 PM to 10 PM on Friday and 12 PM to 10 PM on Saturday. The winery is closed on Monday. Hours are seasonal and are subject to change. Please refer to the winery’s website for any updates to its hours of operation.
Amenities: Weekend entertainment, dining, wine tastings, wine, gift shop, private events and weekend cookouts.

I would like to thank Dan Haflé, Jr. for his hospitality in providing me with the history of Haflé Winery and recommending some great wines!

Where to Stay:

Courtyard by Marriott Downtown
100 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone; 937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

Hafle Winery’s menu offers a wonderful selection of appetizers, sandwiches, dinners and salads. The winery hosts popular weekend cookouts with live music entertainment.

More favorite Springfield eateries:

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Where to Drink:

Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

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

Making Wine at Grape & Granary for Ohio Wine Month

4 June 201615 September 2024

Located in a small shopping plaza in one of Akron’s industrial districts is the hidden gem, Grape & Granary. Drawn to the opportunity of making my own wine, I had no idea what to expect. The thought seemed interesting and I was looked forward to learning more about the process. With a long list of wines available for purchase and production, I was a little overwhelmed, but decided to sample a few wines while reading over the instructions and information for making my own.

Selecting a table, I quickly learned that I was seated near a wedding party, They were deciding which wine to make for their reception and choosing their labels for the wine.

In front of me was a selection of several wine glasses as well as spices for dipping oils and a basket of bread. With a small fee of 50 cents per wine sample, I wanted to try a few flavors before making my purchase. I was offered a long list of wines as well as specialty blends that I had never tried before. Here is the list of wines that I sampled:

Strawberry White Merlot – delicious, great strawberry taste
Kiwi Pear – LOVE this one…it was like eating fresh pears
Sangria Zinfindel Blush – has a wonderful, fruity aftertaste
Raspberry Dragon Fruit – sweet and tastes like kool aid
Cranberry Chianti – not too tart
Strawberry Riesling – a sweet, full strawberry taste
Summer Surprise is a watermelon Jalapeno wine; the watermelon flavor breaks the heat, but I thought it was too sweet
Jalapeno Ice Wine – AMAZING! WOW! I had to buy a couple of bottles of this one! So unique!

I learned that the Peach Apricot Wine is their best seller, but they were sold out during the time of my visit.

Grape & Granary is also a distillery, so I had a list of options such as Grappa, Whisky, Brandy, Gin, Caffe Liquor or Limoncello. Since the limoncello was a dollar per sample, I simply couldn’t resist.

One of the advantages of visiting Grape & Granary is that they also provide bread and dipping oils to sample. The Herbes de Garlic Sea Salt was one of my favorite blends so I purchased a small jar for home.

During my visit, I was able to witness an engaged couple bottling wine for their upcoming wedding. They had already selected their wine from a list of prepared wine juices. Choosing the Luna Rossa, they met with the winemaker to incorporate the yeast into the juice and waited 7 weeks until it was ready to bottle. The cork is then added and later a label would be placed on the bottle after printing.

The couple selected their label which would be ready in a couple of weeks and then the process would be completed. For the particular wine they chose, the cost would be $165 which would include 28 – 30 750 ml bottles. The cost for labels was 30 cents and the bottles an additional charge.

I was so thankful for the opportunity to watch the wine making process and found it to be a fun, educational experience. The Grape & Granary sells a wide variety of wine making kits and offers orders from their online store and catalog. I decided to purchase a wine kit in hopes that I would have some success and then start a winery in Napa.

Have you had the opportunity to make your own wine at Grape & Granary or at another wine making venue? 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 and I wish you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Grape & Granary
915 Home Avenue
Akron, OH 44310
Telephone: 330 633 7223

Where to Stay:

Country Inn & Suites
1420 Main Street
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Telephone: 330 926 1233

Where to Eat:

Beau’s on the River
1989 Front Street
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Telephone: 330 920 7530

I was so excited to find this amazing restaurant with a fabulous view along the Cuyahoga River. I ordered a Wedge Salad and the Caprese Flatbread for my main entrée.

The Banana Split Festival: Wilmington, Ohio

28 May 201624 November 2024

When was the last time you enjoyed a banana split? For me, It was probably high school when I worked for a local ice cream shop, Fent’s Dairy.

So, when I noticed the Banana Split Festival in Wilmington, Ohio, I was excited to make the short drive to celebrate this delicious dessert in the town where it was invented. This year the event was scheduled to take place from June 8 – 9, 2018.

I arrived downtown and there were several signs directing me towards Denver Williams Park. I passed through a torrential thunderstorm but the skies were clearing up as I arrived at the park 10 minutes outside of town.

Complimentary golf carts were waiting in the parking lot to transport guests to the festival. Vendors were still setting up and displaying their products as I entered. Carnival food stalls were offering deep fried vegetables, pork tenderloins and Bourbon BBQ. I couldn’t decide where to start.

I made a stop at the banana split buffet tent but they had not finished setting up. The attendant asked that I come back in 15 minutes which allowed me more time to browse the remaining stalls and attractions.

From pizza to hot dogs, Texas tenderloins and cotton candy, there were plenty of options. I had my mind set on a corn dog, but decided on an order of deep fried vegetables trying to convince myself this was a much healthier choice. I had to leave room for my “make it myself” banana split.

The band “Rewind” was setting up and preparing to play for the evening. They were testing out their microphones and checking the sound system when I strolled towards the open field where visitors were setting up their chairs. From the town of Circleville, the band plays cover songs from the 60’s to the 90s and have a few of their own originals.

There were plenty of carnival games where the children could win prizes and an enclosed area where the kids could pay a small fee to ride a pony.

I arrived back at the banana split pavilion in time for the shelter house to open. I was handed a ticket to enter and gave the attendant my order for an original banana split. A banana at the bottom of the plastic boat, three scoops of vanilla ice cream, strawberry, pineapple and chocolate syrup toppings, whipped cream, nuts and a cherry on top. I replaced the nuts for sprinkles to brighten it up.

I took a seat at one of the picnic tables and read over the brochure and learned the local story about the banana split. According to the town of Wilmington, this dessert was the creation of Ernest Hazard who owned a local restaurant in town. It was winter in 1907 when he set out to create a way to bring in students from Wilmington College. With unlimited food ingredients, he challenged his employees to come up with a recipe of their own. But it would be Ernest himself that would end up being the winner of his own contest with his fabulous dessert would become popular the world over, known as the banana split.

The brochure also explained that in addition to the food, shows and crafts, visitors can also enjoy a car show and baseball tournament. You may even want to sign up for the banana split eating contest held here each year.

Sponsored by the Wilmington Rotary Clubs, the Banana Split Festival is held annually in Wilmington, Ohio each June. This was their 22nd year, full of activities and events. To learn more about the festival, visit their website at www.bananasplitfestival.com. Many thanks for reading about the Banana Split Festival and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Banana Split Festival
Denver Williams Park
1100 Rombach Road
Wilmington, OH 45177

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn & Suites Wilmington
201 Holiday Dr.
Wilmington, OH 45177
Telephone: 937 382 4400

Where to Eat:

You can choose to eat the fair-style food at the Banana Split Festival or check out some of the local restaurants.

Mediterranean Restaurant
53 East Main Street
Wilmington, OH 45177
Telephone: 937 382 6300

We went searching for a pizza place and found The Mediterranean Restaurant, offering calzones, pastas, salads and more!

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

My Interview with Artist Jimi Jones, Leader of the NeoAncestral Movement

21 May 201615 September 2024

Interviewing Jimi Jones was, for me, the opportunity of a lifetime. I admired his latest collection at The Springfield Museum of Art in Ohio where he was the headline exhibitor at this Smithsonian-affiliated institution.

Arriving at Jimi’s studio in downtown Cincinnati, I was a bit jittery with excitement as this was not only my first interview, but a chance meeting with an artist I admired. Having recently written my amateur, artistic review of his work, I was more than elated when he contacted me through my website and suggested I meet him in person to weigh in on my thoughts. I had so many questions to ask him and looked forward to this opportunity.

Jimi Jones has mastered the ability to tell a story through his paintings. His artistry evokes thought-provoking debates and cleverly captivates the mind of his audience. The masterpieces that have been majestically displayed at numerous museums represent all aspects of human culture to include history, politics, philosophy and religion.

Providing his audience with a glimpse of history, Jones’ first painting on display at his Faces & Places exhibit was the “SS Turner”. Artist JMW Turner, with the ambition of making a political statement, painted his macabre work of art based on the horrific fate of the slave ship, Zong. It was his hope that it would encourage Britain to change its current pro-slavery beliefs. Taking inspiration from Turner’s historical art work titled “The Slave Ship”, Jones has also shown his passion for modern day public opinion, political issues and ethical concerns.

Jimi Jones’ ethereal “SS Turner” is also an anti-slavery piece, yet centered around the Civil War Era. Jones admired Turner’s powerful approach in exhibiting his view on the current politics of the day. It is through his paintings that Jones has found his calling in displaying his position in a subtle way that invokes both contemplation and conversation. It is his hope that he can create a masterpiece that “will make a difference [in one’s life] or even change a country’s thoughts.”

I felt privileged that Jimi would grant me the insight into the thought process of his artistic prowess. His art is thoroughly planned and deliberate long before he takes his first stroke upon the canvas. Studying “The Slave Ship”, he explained how selecting the color red for the soldier’s jacket represented bloodshed and that the ghostly blue was perfect for symbolizing death. I felt the intensity of pain through the graphic, diagonal lines as the slave ship lingered in the distance, while the innocence of the slave woman in the background tugged at my heartstrings. It was because of this painting, I wanted to learn more.

One of the most fascinating pieces of Jimi Jones’ exhibit was titled “Why These Cultures”. At first glance, I desperately wanted to understand the connection between the young African girl to the left of the painting and the Geisha girl towards the right. “Why These Cultures” perfectly exemplifies the societal differences between the Eastern and Western cultures, but how can they relate to one another?

As I studied the layers of complexity to this painting, I found myself more and more drawn to the intricate detail that only establishes Jones as one of the greatest artists of our time. His defined use of sepia and pression blue are hypnotizing, but the colorful elements of the costumed horses and the facial expressions of their riders are astonishing. I am afraid that if I stare too long or too closely, the characters will convince me to make their acquaintance. A quick jump into the painting and my life would be forever changed as my destiny would be decided between the cultures of the East or the traditions of the West.

Jimi Jones is a self-proclaimed Renaissance man and one of his favorite, artistic legends is Rembrandt. While many artists included their likenesses in their paintings or commission their own portraits, I found it interesting that Jones would paint a collection of friends and acquaintances to establish his own portraiture. It is a fascinating thought as he explains that “We are a reflection of the people we knew and the people that supported us.” We take on their habits, are influenced or challenged by their beliefs and model their behavior to make us who we are today.

One of Jones’ supporters and fellow artist is Thom Phelps. They came together to collaborate on an ideal that led them to the philosophy of “Neo Ancestralism”. Other influencers in his life include Carl Solway, Owen Findson, Aiden Sims, Catherine Marie Klenke, Courtney Hellebuyck who were honored in his 2016 Faces & Stories Exhibit. What a beautiful homage to the people that Jimi holds in high regard and credits for making the artist, storyteller, political influencer, historian and man he is today.

There are so many layers to Jimi Jones and the depth of his thoughts and processes make him bottomless, profound and all the more interesting. While his artwork is the result of years and years of painting, it is also a manifestation of his life experiences. A successful career in graphic design that provided him the ability to travel the world and an early passion for art, have laid the groundwork for Jones’ success and the foundation for continued greatness in the future. I anxiously await his next collection and anticipate the opportunity to be inspired, moved and encouraged to discover more.

Have you had the opportunity to see the artwork of Jimi Jones? Check out this link for samples of his exhibition pieces: http://jimijonesart.com/exhibitions/martyrs.html. I would love to hear about your thoughts and artistic opinions if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my experience learning more about Jimi Jones and his fabulous artwork,

I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Jimi Jones for sitting down with me to discuss his amazing artwork!

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

Faces & Stories Exhibit of Jimi Jones, Cincinnati Artist

14 May 201615 September 2024

Supporting local Ohio artists, the Springfield Art Museum hosted an exhibit of works by Cincinnati painter Jimi Jones. I caught a glimpse of his artwork during the Jason Morgan show and could not wait for the Grand Opening of “Faces & Stories”.

The first images I notice as I walk into the large exhibit hall are a quartet of paintings that immediately capture my attention. I am fascinated with the symmetry, graphic artistry and attention to detail represented in Jones’ artwork. The bright colors against the dark backgrounds allow my eyes to focus on the central images that are depicted in the art as I study each of the subjects’ facial expressions.

The painting titled You’re Fired, features images of Donald Trump and Jesus Christ, who are figures of extreme contrast. Mistakenly, I thought that this painting would have been one of the most recent works of Jones, but in fact, this piece of artwork was painted in 2102, long before Trump’s political run for the presidential race. There is a strong relationship of opposites when one compares the lives of Jesus and Donald. Jesus, the compassionate spiritual man who represents grace, forgiveness and a life of humility is what many would say is the complete opposite of Donald Trump, who is wealthy powerful and self-absorbed. The sharp lines that appear in the background give an image of shouting and aggression while these same lines above the head of Christ, represent holiness and spiritual divination. What kind of contrasts do you see in this painting?

The Monster Movie Aurora was painted by Jimi Jones in 2014. The figure on the left represents James Eagan Holmes who was convicted on 24 counts of murder and multiple accounts of attempted murder, when he entered a movie theater on July 20, 2012 and openly fired upon movie-goers. There seems to be an evil aura that dominates the top half of the painting, while innocent, unaware, families have not yet become aware of what is going to happen. The blue figure is obviously the shooter, while explosive-like objects seem to suggest some events have already occurred. Maybe the family members have not yet discerned the noise of the actual events to the action in the movie that is playing.

From John Wayne to Lil Wayne is one of the masterpiece paintings of Jones that represents two public figures from different eras and cultures. Painted in 2014, there are several graphic elements that include a hologram as well as cowboy clippings inserted into the artwork. What fascinates me is the stark difference between the two figures. John Wayne, known largely for his role as a cowboy in several movies in the 20^th century and Lil Wayne, an American hip hop recording artist are featured in this painting. I love that it may spark an intrigue by the viewer to further understand the person that represents the culture outside of his own. I knew very little about Lil Wayne, except that I liked a couple of his songs, so this painting led me to learn more about the rapper’s life and career. Has there ever been a painting that has left you wanting to know more?

Up Close View of John Wayne

Movies and pop culture seem to be a recurring theme in Jones’ artwork. What is Beauty? is one of Jones’ most recent paintings which he completed in 2016. I love the attention to detail In Cleopatra’s hair and makeup, the reflections from King Tut’s mask and the physique of Tarzan. From its inception, the movie industry has manipulated the thoughts and minds of the general population by dictating what makes someone beautiful. Beauty continues to evolve through each generation.

Many of Jimi Jones’ portraits are of African-American celebrities that also have a passion for the Neo-Ancestral movement. Born of Cherokee and African American descent, Jones grew up to become a founding member of the Neo-Ancestralist Art Collective in Cincinnati.

The portrait of Edith Mararo was painted by Jones in 2015. Mararo is a fellow portraiture artist from the Cincinnati area who specializes in painting children. With the use of pastels, oils, acrylic, graphite, watercolor and charcoal, she has made a living as a local, talented artist.

Jones’ strong graphic design background is evident in his 2008 painting titled Martyrs. The antique composition surrounds the colorful death of Jesus in the center, drawing my eyes directly to Christ’s post-crucifixion body. Jesus is surrounded by US political figures that also gave their lives for their beliefs such as John F. Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King, Jr. The multi-dimensional King depiction seems to under-shadow the other victims, but takes up more of the page.

According to the placard, Jones states “Lincoln, Kennedy and Dr. King lost their lives because they dared to stand against slavery, injustice, and inequality. Much of the great art of all time has been dedicated to reminding people of those sacrifices”, Jones said. “I feel honored that as an artist I can carry on this tradition.”

Having had the opportunity to see the Pieta in Rome, I enjoyed this homage to Michelangelo’s sculpture. With a harsh Picasso-like graphics approach, Jones is able to pull off his use of strong lines yet softens them in a way that gives this painting a soft, humble tone.

Why These Cultures, painted by Jones in 2008, showcases his talent for detail. The color, shapes and intricate facets of this art piece bring out a story within a story and layers of artistry all in one painting. The graphics components are incorporated more into the design of the actual figures which draws the eye to the images that seem distant and secondary. In fact, they become more interesting and center stage the more I gaze upon the masterpiece. Again, there is the use of antique coloring, but it does not dominate the piece.

The amazing detail of Why These Cultures 2008

As I approach the Mad Tea Party, I have to admit that this painting intrigues me because I am not quite sure which players are represented here. I assume that Alice is on the far left at the head of the table and I recognize Johnny Depp’s character, but I am at a loss in identifying the other party attendees gathered around. Once again, the detail in the surrounding objects such as the chandelier and the shadows are very well thought out and executed. So who do YOU think these invitees represent?

As I approach the center of the room, there are an additional three portraitures that Jones has completed in 2014 as well. They are life-like with perfect attention to detail, outlining wrinkles, shadowing and bringing out the subject’s personality.

I am mesmerized by the amazing artistry of Jimi Jones’ paintings. They are provocative and encourage insightful questions and thoughts about humanity from various perspectives, political or otherwise. There were more portraitures that I had not discussed, and additional masterpieces. It is a wonderful experience to broaden one’s outlook on various cultures and beliefs and to focus on many of the major ideals that we, as humans, have in common.

Have you had the opportunity to review the artwork of Jimi Jones? I would love to know your thoughts and interpretation if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Springfield Museum of Art
107 Cliff Park Road
Springfield, Ohio 45504
Telephone: 937 325 4673

Admission Fee: Adults for $5, Students with Valid ID for $3; Seniors 65+ for $3; Children 17 and under are Free and Wittenberg students are Free. Special exhibitions may incur an additional cost, so check the website prior to visiting
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 9AM to 5PM; Sunday: 12:30PM to 4:30PM; Closed Monday, Tuesday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Independence Day and the Sunday after Art Ball.
Amenities: Partnership with the Smithsonian, Exhibitions as well as Workshops and Classes
Length of Visit: 1 to 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Check the website to confirm any additional fees for special exhibits.

Where to Stay:

Marriott Courtyard, Springfield Downtown
100 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, Ohio 45502
Telephone: 937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

Mike & Rosie’s Deli
330 W. McCreight Avenue
Springfield, Ohio 45504
Telephone: 937 390 3511

This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.

Where to Drink:

Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

Metamorphosis 2008

Jimi Hendrix 2016

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

The Art of Jason Morgan, A Springfield Museum of Art Exhibit

7 May 201615 September 2024

Flipping through a copy of Ohio Magazine, I was drawn to an article about a local artist Jason Morgan from Yellow Springs, Ohio. I learned that he would be exhibiting at the Springfield Museum of Art, and booked a Saturday to see his artwork for myself. I was fascinated by his amazing still life scenes and wanted to learn more about his artistic style.

Prior to entering the exhibit, I picked up a small guide with an overview of the artist and his work. Located at several stations throughout the museum, thought provoking questions were posed to encourage a deeper reflection on some of the paintings. I found this practice to be very helpful and enjoyed thinking about Morgan’s artwork in a more artistic manner. Outside of the left wing was Morgan’s “Strange Pilgrims”.

My eyes were first drawn to the Hawaiian-like totem figure and then to the yellow pepper which seemed out of place. Reminding me of a scene in the movie Toy Story, I was fascinated by the colors in the yo-yo and the reflection of the light on the egg.

The artwork on display was primarily acrylic on canvas dating from 2002 to the present. I quickly noticed Morgan’s talent for painting portraits which progressively evolved towards a photographic style. I provided some of my thoughts on only a small number of pieces on display and separated them into two categories, portraitures and still-life.

Portraiture

I began my exploration of Jason Morgan’s artwork starting with Moonstruck which was painted in 2001. Compared to the 2012 painting of Dr. Cotton, the images in his earlier paintings had more subtle backgrounds but not as much definition in their facial expressions.

The work titled “Tim & Brooke” was one that first captured my attention in the next collection of portraitures. The attention to detail and texture is phenomenal in this painting. I was most fascinated by the natural bunching up of Brooke’s white t-shirt. The shadowing gave the piece of clothing such a unique three-dimensional feel.

“Acala at Ten” was an extraordinarily elegant black and white portrait. I was drawn to her eyes and her defined facial features. The simple background allowed my focus to remain solely on her.

I had reached the “Dr. Cotton” painting and I found this to be one of the most interesting portraitures in the collection. I was impressed with his use of texture and dimension in the background, especially the brick and the fall-like plants/trees that can be seen through the window. Of course the main focus was on the doctor himself. Morgan was able make scrubs look interesting with the use of shadowing and his ability to create an added component of depth is fascinating. I was mesmerized by the recreation of the doctor’s hospital badge as well as the detail that was not overlooked in the watch and pager. The detail of the doctor’s hands, all the way down to his fingernails and cuticles, was extremely life-like and photogenic.

The Use of Portraiture and Still Life

“Mirror in the Mirror” seemed like an transition from Morgan’s painting of portraits to still life, incorporating aspects of both people and things. The girl in the background appeared softer with less detailed features while the items in the foreground took center stage. I noticed that the painting had a three dimensional feel with the daisy in glass at the front, the skull and pomegranate in the center and the young girl towards the back. She was paying no attention to the items laid out in front of her, but rather taking more of an interest in the IPhone that she was holding in her hands.

Still Life Paintings

“Pins and Needles” was another opportunity to explore Morgan’s mastery with the use of lighting and for painting reflections as they would appear on his objects. Light reflected off, not only the orange, but each pin that had been stuck into the spool. There were several aspects of the painting that seemed to have been included to challenge Morgan artistically. First was the orange. There was a great amount of detail given to the flesh of the orange looking as though it had just been squeezed. Instead of a perfectly sliced orange, there was an element of experimentation in the modified object. This could also be said for the re-creation of the photograph of the man and the young child, which brought Morgan’s attention to detail to a whole new level.

I wandered towards the center of the exhibit where there are samples of objects that Morgan used for his paintings. The display also provided and explanation of the process for which Jason Morgan creates his designs, using a three-step process.

The Perfect Photograph

Towards the end of the exhibit, I found myself spending the most time viewing “Indian Four”, an acrylic on canvas. Mesmerized by the artistic detail of this painting, I noticed the intricate reproduction of each of the motorcycle’s parts and hardware. There is rust on the metal, the chipping away of body paint and the reflective lighting on the bike was incredible.

The next three pieces that were painted from 2011 to 2013 were, in my opinion, the most developed in the way of lighting and the detail of reflection. The positioning of items in the painting “Enzo” was unique as the items are facing away from viewer. The back lighting gave the painting a distinctive depth in the ridges of the cantaloupe and the marble’s reflection on the table was perfectly executed.

The same could be said for “Grapes of Wrath.” A partial mirror image of the light bulb was painted on the table which was a result of the lighting. “One for Steve” took the reflective concept a step further showing the table’s reflection in the plum. Impressive was the remaining peel left by a bite in the piece of fruit.

It is clear that Jason Morgan is successful in capturing the details and textures that come from his intense strategic placement and lighting of his subjects. Whether portraitures or still life images, the attention to each element is clearly exhibited in the artwork he creates. I look forward to seeing where his talents take him and hope to see more of his work in the near future.

Do you have a passion or love for art? What draws you to a specific artist? If you visited the Jason Morgan exhibit, I would love to hear your thoughts about his work. Please take the time to let me know about your opinions and comments about my post in the comments below! I would love to hear from you!

What to See and What to Do:

The Springfield Museum of Art
107 Cliff Park Road
Springfield, Ohio 45504
Telephone: 937 325 4673

If you would like to explore Jason Morgan’s fascinating artwork, visit his website at www.jasonmorganportraits.com.

Admission Fee: Adults for $5, Students with Valid ID for $3; Seniors 65+ for $3; Children 17 and under are Free and Wittenberg students are Free. Special exhibitions may incur an additional cost, so check the website prior to visiting
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 9AM to 5PM; Sunday: 12:30PM to 4:30PM; Closed Monday, Tuesday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Independence Day and the Sunday after Art Ball.
Amenities: Partnership with the Smithsonian, Exhibitions as well as Workshops and Classes
Length of Visit: 1 to 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Check the website to confirm any additional fees for special exhibits.

Where to Stay:

Marriott Courtyard, Springfield Downtown
100 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, Ohio 45502
Telephone: 937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

Seasons Bistro and Grille
28 South Limestone Street
Springfield, Ohio 45502
Telephone: 937 521 1200

My favorite item on the menu is the Bibimbap, a Korean rice bowl with marinated beef strips and seasonal vegetables served over white rice. Topped with a fried egg and Korean chili paste.

Another seasonal favorite that is offered on a limited basis is their grilled Chilean sea bass.

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Where to Drink:

Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

Here is another look at part of the process…From cute bunny stuffed animal…

To adorable painting of bunny hopping over mushrooms! A Great Escape

Display in the exhibit to explain Morgan’s artistic process

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

Holland, Michigan: True to its Dutch Heritage

30 April 201615 September 2024

As my family continues to grow, our vacations are typically based on two factors: driving distance to our destination and space for all of the kiddos. If we can find a beach (lake or ocean) and a list of fun attractions, that is also a plus. After coming up with several ideas and narrowing our search, we all agreed to spend our summer vacation near Traverse City, Michigan with an overnight stop in Holland.

I had recently visited Holland during a visit to the city’s annual Tulip Time Festival and recommended it as the overnight stop for our trip. I was impressed with the local attractions, restaurants and shopping opportunities as well as its absolute charm.

Our first stop in Holland was the city’s state park. After strolling the beautiful coastline and watching the locals fish from the pier, we headed downtown for an early dinner. We could not have asked for better weather with sunny skies and a cool breeze.

The fish were biting and we saw a young boy taking his catch to the end of the dock to drop it into a bucket. Lake Michigan is full of fish including bass, trout, catfish, perch, walleye, bass as well as salmon.

On the way back from the pier, we took a closer look at the beautiful red lighthouse on the opposite side of the channel. We learned that the locals call it “Big Red” , but its official name is the Holland Harbor Light. It plays an important role for guiding the boats through the channel between Lake Michigan and Lake Macatawa.

Strolling along the beach, we worked up an appetite and decided it was time to find a restaurant that could accommodate all of us. The trip into Holland did not take but a few minutes and we were able to find parking on 8^th street, the main shopping and restaurant district of town.

We decided on Crust 54 where we ordered pizza and pasta. The place was packed, but we were able to find seating for our group of six. We stepped up to the counter to order and they brought our food to us when it was ready. The Chicago Special pizza with Italian sausage, mushrooms, green peppers and onions was abundantly cheesy and delicious.

The sun was beginning to set and we had a little time to shop before reaching the hotel. Holland is typical small town America and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It has won several awards and was ranked by the well-being index as the second healthiest/happiest town in the United States. CNN ranked it as one of the top five places to retire in 2006.

Have you vacationed in Holland or live here? I would love to hear your suggestions for where to eat and shop if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my family vacation stay in Holland! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Holland State Park
2215 Ottawa Beach Road
Holland, MI 49424
Telephone: 616 399 9390

Holland Harbor Light
2215 Ottawa Beach Road
Holland, MI 49424
Telephone: 616 399 9390

Where to Stay:

Baert Baron Mansion
120 S. Church Street
Zeeland, MI 49464
Telephone: 616 748 1953

Where to Eat:

Crust 54 – Downtown Holland
54 E. 8th Street
Holland, MI 49423
Telephone: 616 394 3002

Where to Drink:

What to Read:

Holland, the Tulip Town, by Randall P. Vande Water
Boats Made in Holland: A Michigan Tradition, by Geoffrey D. Reynolds
Holland, Michigan: From Dutch Colony to Dynamic City, by Robert P. Swierenga

Photo Guide for Tulip Time and Holland:

The Fields of Tulips throughout the city
DeZwaan Windmill at Windmill Island Gardens
Sunset on Lake Michigan
Polder Molen Windmill at Nelis’ Dutch Village
Dutch Dancers
Nelis’ Dutch Village: landscaped gardens, canals, carousel, brick walkways, gardens of tulips, petting farm, Carillon Bell Tower, The East Gate, Dutch houses
Windmill Island Gardens, merry-go-round, carousel, dutch dancers

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

A Young Boy and his Fish

It’s Tulip Time in Holland!

23 April 201615 September 2024

When I think of springtime, I imagine the first blooms of delicate tulips and daffodils that burst into color against a gloomy grey sky. Hibernating through the cold of winter, these beautiful flowers signal a resounding rebirth of life that can only mean that spring is around the corner.

Since 1959, the town of Holland, Michigan has been known for its production of tulips. Growing a variety of species in a multitude of colors, Holland pays tribute to its Dutch heritage with their annual Tulip Time festivities.

Displaying over 200,000 tulips throughout the city, Holland hosts their annual Tulip Time celebration in May. Visitors come from all over the world to experience “old Netherlands customs and traditions.” The theme of the 2015 festival was “Join the Dance.” The city of Holland would attempt to break the world record for klomping, exceeding the number of people “simultaneously dancing in wooden shoes”.

Preparing for my visit, I began my research online by checking out the festival’s website. With a wealth of information, it was easy to plan my visit based on the site’s schedule of events, maps and detailed instructions for getting around town. From windmill tours to trolley rides, I was starting to wonder if I was going to have enough time exploring the charming little town of Holland.

The list of festivities went on to include Dutch dancing, parades, educational talks and tours. Most of the events were within walking distance but if I needed an extra lift to reach one of the venues, I could always rely on the hop on trolley.

One of the highlights of my visit was watching the local high school students performing the traditional Dutch Dancing. Training to become a “klomper” begins at a young age and the Dutch costumes are designed in accordance to the clothing of the Dutch Provinces.

I attended a few of the festival events and leisurely strolled the “Great American Main Street” of East 8^th Street. While there were several eateries and concession stands, I was most interested in sampling some of the locally prepared dishes at the Dutch Marktplaats. Authentic entrees ranged from Mettwurst to Maatjesharing (Dutch new herring).

After a short pause for lunch, I was looking forward to riding the hop on, hop off trolley tour of the city. With a Dutch-costumed guide, I learned more about the settlement of Holland with its historic district, downtown and city parks. My $30 ticket also included discounts to some of the local attractions including Windmill Island Gardens, the Holland Museum and Cappon House. While the trolley admission was valid for the day of purchase, I could use the discount tickets throughout the week.

There were so many venues and events to explore during the Tulip Time celebration but I had only planned one day for a visit. I could have easily spent a couple of days to enjoy the festival with more time to explore the town of Holland and had even suggested it as a stay for our family vacation in the summer. I was excited that our family agreed that this would be a fun place to explore and I looked forward to an upcoming return.

Have you attended a cultural event that was so fabulous you wanted to experience it again? I would love to hear about your recommendation if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading about my visit to Holland, Michigan during the Tulip Time festival and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Tulip Time
Holland, Michigan
Telephone: 800 822 2770

Tips for Your Visit: I would encourage visitors to check out the Tulip Time website (www.tuliptime.com) in advance to plan their stay during the festival. You will find that not all of the events take place on a daily basis, so checking out the itinerary may assist one with preparing a schedule ahead of time. For example, if you arrive on Friday, there may not be a parade and if you happen to attend on the day of a parade, you can purchase grandstand tickets ahead of time. The site also provides a detailed schedule of the events that take place as well as a great map to help you get around. And if you stop by on a whim, you will find various information stands throughout the enchanting town of Holland that offer assistance as well. Happy klomping!

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn Holland
12427 Felch Street
Holland, Michigan, 49424
Phone number: 855 605 0317

Hampton Inn is one of my favorite, low cost hotels and this was, by far, one of the best accommodations for this hotel chain.

Where to Eat:

Crust 54 – (two locations in Holland, Michigan)
*54 E. 8th Street, 616 394 3002

1145 S. Washington Avenue, 616 848 7787

*We stopped by Crust 54’s downtown location because it was convenient and kid-friendly. We loved the Chicago style pizza and highly recommend this as a place to dine.

Where to Drink:

What to Read:

Holland, the Tulip Town, by Randall P. Vande Water
Boats Made in Holland: A Michigan Tradition, by Geoffrey D. Reynolds
Holland, Michigan: From Dutch Colony to Dynamic City, by Robert P. Swierenga

Photo Guide for Tulip Time and Holland:

The Fields of Tulips throughout the city
DeZwaan Windmill at Windmill Island Gardens
Sunset on Lake Michigan
Polder Molen Windmill at Nelis’ Dutch Village
Dutch Dancers
Nelis’ Dutch Village: landscaped gardens, canals, carousel, brick walkways, gardens of tulips, petting farm, Carillon Bell Tower, The East Gate, Dutch houses
Windmill Island Gardens, merry-go-round, carousel, dutch dancers

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