The Cincinnati Museum Center and the Genius of Leonardo da Vinci

22 September 201616 September 2024

Ranked in the United States as one of the top museums for kids, the Cincinnati Museum Center was hosting a Leonardo da Vinci exhibit in July of 2016. Housed within Cincinnati’s Union Terminal, the museum is a local icon in itself. Inside, I stood in amazement at the spectacular half dome, the “largest in the western hemisphere”, the colorful murals painted at the base of the dome and breathtaking views of downtown. I had noticed an exhibit of one of the great masters of Renaissance art, Leonardo da Vinci and I decided I had to visit during this spectacular event.

Surprising to some, Leonardo da Vinci was also an inventor and influential scientist in the areas of chemistry and anatomy. While I was familiar with his artwork such as the “The Last Supper”, “Mona Lisa” and “The Virgin of the Rocks”, I was extremely surprised by the number of innovations credited to da Vinci. The exhibit showcased the art, the inventions and the research of da Vinci, a spectacular genius and innovator.

Leonardo da Vinci’s pen and ink drawing of The Vitruvian Man is one of his most recognized sketches. His notes penned on the illustration are based on the works of architect Vitruvius, which defines the perfect proportions of the male body. First-century Vitruvius claimed that the human image could fit into both a circle and a square.

Da Vinci’s artwork measures 13.39 inches by 9.45 inches and is displayed in Venice, Italy at the Gallerie dell’Accademia.

One of my favorite paintings in the exhibit was the “La Dama con l’Ermellino” translated as “Lady with an Ermine.” The original artwork resides at the Czartoryski Museum in Krakow, Poland.

Da Vinci was captivated by the science of light, shadows and perspective when painting his artwork. He studied their effects on objects and experimented with pigments to perfectly capture images to resemble real life. He was such a perfectionist that he often critiqued his own work repainting his images over and over again.

Of the approximate twenty-five pieces that da Vinci painted, only a few remain as copies. In addition, Leonardo documented his thoughts and findings in volumes of notebooks, but only about a quarter of these writings exist, totaling nearly 6,000 pages.

As I stepped into the gallery that displayed Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions, I had no idea that he was known for developing war weapons. Da Vinci was known as a pacifist, but when Cesare Borgia employed him to design military machines, Leonardo knew that this opportunity would provide him an extravagant income.

The tank, one of his war machines, was not perfected during da Vinci’s time, yet the concept would come to fruition during World War I.

Musical instruments (portable piano), technology (film projector), clothing, and clock mechanisms were among the brilliant inventions of Leonardo da Vinci.

As I approached the final hall, I was interested in learning more about Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, the “Mona Lisa,” I was taken by surprise to learn the scientific research that had been conducted on the artwork and the information it revealed.

Under the direction of French engineer Pascal Corte, the original Mona Lisa was removed from its frame and photographed to examine and analyze the painting. Using a specialized high resolution camera, Corte was able to inspect characteristics of the Mona Lisa undetectable to the human eye.

Once the photos were taken, experts accessed and scrutinized their findings which took over two years. On display at the museum were various images that disclosed an insurmountable size of data revealing spectacular secrets of the painting. For example, over the years, art aficionados have wondered why Mona Lisa was missing eyelashes and eyebrows, This question was answered when further research revealed that Leonardo da Vinci had, in fact, painted eyebrows and lashes on the Mona Lisa and that they had faded over the years.

Professional analysts, with the help of Pascal, identified twenty-five secrets of the Mona Lisa.

In addition to the ability to photograph the Mona Lisa with an extraordinary resolution of 240 megapixels, there were several other techniques applied to the painting. Reverse false color infrared and black and white infrared bring to light several layers to the painting, its many stages and restoration efforts.

Interesting facts about the Mona Lisa:

The painting is quite small measuring 30.31 by 20.87 inches.
Monna, an Italian name, is the actual spelling as documented at the Louvre.
The Mona Lisa was never completed. Leonardo da Vinci began painting her in 1503 and was still working on her until the time of his death in 1519
Napoleon Bonaparte once had possession of the Mona Lisa, hanging it in the bedroom and then the bathroom
The painting was stolen from the Louvre in 1911, but was recovered two years later.
In 1956, the painting was damaged when doused by acid and later that same year, a man threw a rock at it.

While many of the Mona Lisa’s secrets have been uncovered, her identity remains a mystery. With the use of Layer Amplification Method (LAM) technology, there is proof that da Vinci painted different versions of the Mona Lisa, one on top of the other.

The most popular work of art in all of the world draws nearly 10 million visitors a year to the Michelangelo Gallery at Paris’ Louvre Museum. Mona Lisa’s famous smile and gentle gaze have captured the attention of many who have had the opportunity to view this spectacular painting.

The Leonardo da Vinci exhibit proved the genius of this multifaceted Renaissance man. I spent hours pouring over his talents as artist, musician and inventor and found myself amazed at all that he had accomplished.

Having been so impressed by the exhibition of Leonardo da Vinci and wanting to see the Mona Lisa for myself, I found myself booking a trip to Paris in hopes of seeing this spectacular wonder of Renaissance art and coming face to face with this magnificent beauty.

Are you familiar with the accomplishments of Leonardo da Vinci? Have you attended an exhibition of his work? I would love to hear about your experience and what amazed you about this prolific contributor to modern day inventions. Please leave your comments below and I thank you for taking the time to read about my visit to the Cincinnati Museum Center for the Leonardo da Vinci exhibit. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cincinnati Museum Center
1301 Western Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45203
Telephone: 513 287 7000

Where to Stay:

Best Western Premier Mariemont Inn
6880 Wooster Pike
Cincinnati, OH 45227
Telephone: 513 271 2100

Where to Eat:

The National Exemplar
6880 Wooster Pike
Mariemont, OH 45227
Telephone: 513 271 2103

I began my meal with the Fresh Oysters of the Day, a half dozen lightly steamed, followed by the half order of linguini and clams made with prosciutto, white wine and chili flakes.

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:

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

Books 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 for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

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

Catching Up with Cats at the Divine Felines Exhibit, Cincinnati

15 September 201616 September 2024

Having just visited the Pharaoh Exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art, I was excited to learn that the Cincinnati Art Museum would be showcasing their own Egyptian display titled “Divine Felines”. Presenting artifacts from Egypt with a cat theme, I could not wait to make the trek down to Cincinnati to learn more about the ancient domestication of my favorite animal.

Recumbent Lion, Ptolomaic Period, 305 – 35BC, Reportedly from Giza

Cats, both domestic and wild, played an important role in the every day lives of the ancient Egyptians representing symbols of protection, fertility, beauty and sexuality. For example, the resting lion symbolized the country’s tranquility as well as the confidence and power of the king. Stones or glass were embedded into the eyes of the sculptures to show the watchful nature of the mysterious feline.

Lion shaped furniture leg, during the reign of Aspelta, 690-664 BC

According to archaeologists, the ancient Egyptians were the first to use the image of cats as elements of architectural design. Cats and lions were found carved in items that were used on a daily basis to include furniture, weapons and cosmetic items.

Fragmentary Inscription, Dynasty 25 – Dynasty 26, 670 – 650 BC

Pictures and paintings of lions were a common theme in Egyptian hieroglyphs. At least four images of lions were utilized as one of many animal shapes represented in hieroglyphic designs. These shapes include the standing lion, recumbent lion, full-bodied lion, the forepart lion which included its front legs and head as well as the hind parts of the lion (its legs and tail).

Sculptor’s Model Bust of a Lion, Ptolomaic Period

The Egyptians were fascinated by the prowess of the lions, their ferocity and ability to move quickly. Considered positive qualities that were often used to describe Egyptian gods and Pharaohs, these characteristics were the primary attributes that symbolized their divinity and royal standing.

Necklace with Bes and Taweret Pendants, Dynasty 18, 1539 – 1292 BC

Jewels made into the likeness of Bes, the goddess of fertility and protection, were worn by women of child-bearing age or during their pregnancy. These trinkets were used to ensure the safe-keeping of the child until birth. Bes was depicted as a man with a lion’s head and tail. The images also took on the form of a lioness or a woman with a lion’s head, representing the daughter of Ra, the Sun god.

Roman Period, 1^st Century Reportedly from Saqqara, Egypt

Tutu was the male equivalent of Bes, taking the form of a pacing sphinx with the tail of a snake. He was known for protecting the dead in the Afterworld and for taking charge of one’s fate.

Coffin of a Cat, Late Period, Dynasty 26 – Dynasty 31, 664 BC- 332 BC, or later

The Sarcophagus of a cat mummy showed the importance of cats as pets to the ancient Egyptians. According to the placard, “Most cat mummies were buried in either rectangular or cat shaped coffins made of wood. Carved from costly limestone and decorated with scenes that typically appear on coffins of humans, this sarcophagus may have belonged to a pet cat. A scene on the shorter side to your left shows the deceased cat in front of an offering table, flanked by the goddesses Isis and Nephthys. Isis protectively spreads her wings around one of the longer sides of the sarcophagus.”

Roundel, 5^th Century BC, depicting dogs as pets

Just as cats were highly regarded by the Egyptians as both pets and deities, dogs and jackals also had a place in the lives of the ancient Egyptians. The dog’s ability to protect its territory and their loyalty to their owners were attributes that were important to the rulers. Evidence of dogs as pets can be traced back to the 5^th millennium BC.

In addition to Tutu, there were several dog deities including Wepwewat, a god that would lead the dead through the passages of the Underworld and provided them protection. The name means “Opener of the Ways” and comes from the dog’s keen sense of smell and its ability to escape danger.

Anubia was another dog deity that was so named due to the dog’s extreme sense of smell. He was responsible for protecting the deceased in the Underworld.

According to the museum, a fragment on display “represents Anubia lying on the top of shrines, coffins, or canopic chests, which were boxes containing jars with the internal organs of the deceased.” It was difficult to determine if the figures were those of dogs or jackals, as both were portrayed as black.

Even as late as the 2^nd Century when Rome ruled over Egypt, the influence of Egyptian gods were present in the carvings of the Roman-Egyptian cities. As depicted in the funerary stela of C. Julius Valerius, the Egyptian god Horus and the Roman-Greco god Nemesis were present as well as the dog, representing either Anubis or Wepwawet. Just as in the Egyptian culture, the dog led and guarded the deceased through the Afterworld.

It was not surprising that the characteristics of both cats and dogs were highly admired by the Egyptians. Independent or loyal, swift or sassy, the importance of these furry friends continues even into today’s culture.

In addition to the Egyptian exhibit, I learned the museum was hosting a “Modern Cats” collection. With over 20 pieces on display, the artwork was added to demonstrate the “lasting appeal of the domestic feline”. I enjoyed exploring the cat-themed pieces proving that even today, cats are an important part of our global culture.

Which attributes of your pet also resemble your character? Are you surprised that the Egyptian culture developed a fondness for cats in their religion and everyday lives? I would love to hear your thoughts if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to the Cincinnati Art Museum to check out the Divine Felines Exhibit. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cincinnati Art Museum
953 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 721 2787

Admission Fee: General Admission is Free. Special Event Ticket Pricing is $12 for Adults, $6 for Seniors (60+), Students and Children (6-17) and children under 5 are FREE. Exhibit hours on Thursday from 5 PM- 8 PM is free. Contact the museum’s website for holiday closures.
Hours: Open Tuesday – Sunday from 11AM to 5PM; Closed Monday and open Thursdays from 11AM to 8PM. Closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Amenities: Terrace Cafe, Mary R. Schiff Library, museum shop, Rosenthal Educational Center, gallery map and guides and MyCAM Art Hunts
Length of Visit: 1 to 2 hours, or additional time for special exhibits
Tips for Your Visit: Ensure that you have visited the website to confirm that the museum is open, as it may be closed for special events.

Where to Stay:

Millennium Hotel Cincinnati
150 W. 5th Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 352 2100

Where to Eat:

Mt. Adams Bar and Grill
938 Hatch Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 621 3666

I ordered the Fried Jalapeno Ravioli served with marinara sauce.

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:

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

Books 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 for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

Figurine of a Cat during the Late Period Dynasty 26 – Dynasty 31, 664-332 BC or later

Modern Cat Exhibit

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

Pharaoh Exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art

8 September 201616 September 2024

The Cleveland Museum of Art is known for its impressive impressionist collection and is one of the most visited in the world. I had always wanted to visit and when I learned about an additional exhibit based on an Egyptian collection, I was ready to make the two-drive to explore both exhibitions.

Entering the museum, I was overwhelmed with excitement to view the new exhibit: Pharaoh, King of Ancient Egypt. For months, I had been eager to explore this amazing showcase with over 200 ancient artifacts on loan from the British Museum. This exhibit provided an in-depth insight into the life, customs and culture of the Egyptian Pharaohs who ruled from 3000 BC to 30 BC.

The ancient Egyptians worshiped hundreds of gods and goddesses. The pharaoh was not only the ruler of the Egyptian kingdom but a religious figure as well. According to their beliefs, the pharaoh, an earthly representation of the god Horus, took human form to keep order within the kingdom of Egypt and to protect its citizens. Through various rituals, the pharaoh would attempt to please the gods in hopes to grow abundant crops and defeat their enemies. This was displayed by the 5-foot statue of Seti II seated on his throne while making an offering to the god, Amun, symbolized by a ram’s head on the shrine that Seti is holding. At the base of the statue is the carved name of Seti II, known in Egypt as a cartouche.

Once the pharaoh died, the Egyptians believed that he (or she) would be transformed as the god Osiris, the ruler of the underworld. Within his tomb, offerings of bread, wine and carved figures were given as gifts to the gods. The goddess Sekhmet was considered the “daughter of Ra”, a very powerful god, associated with the sun. She could also transform herself into the uraeus, the rearing cobra, displayed on the crown of the pharaohs.

One exhibit showed the Head of Pharaoh Mentuhotep II, a perfect example of the uraeus. His white crown symbolized the rule of the land of Upper Egypt while a red crown represented the rule of Lower Egypt. When the kingdoms were combined, the crown included both symbols of Upper and Lower Egypt.

In addition to statues, figures were also carved into the lintels of Egypt’s extravagant temples. The new pharaoh would leave his mark by building his own temple where the writing on the lintel would reference his rule. The lintel of Amenemhat III is a fine example of what would have been built in the time period of 1859 BC to 1814 BC.

During the Ptolemaic Period, when Greeks ruled Egypt, the tradition of building temples in the Egyptian style continued. According to the exhibit placard, it reads, “Pharaoh Ptolemy I presents grass and a papyrus plant to Hathor, goddess of fertility and joy. These plants symbolized Upper and Lower Egypt; together they represented the unification of the Two Lands.”

Smaller figurines of the pharaoh and the gods were also carved out of stone or wood while some were sculpted out of bronze. The jackal head is thought to have represented the god Horus in southern Egypt while the falcon may have been associated with the Horus of Pe in northern Egypt.

The colorful stela (writing on stone) of Pharaoh Tuthosis IV showed his offering a gift of papyrus and lotus flowers to Amun-Ra and the deified queen Ahmose-Nefertari, who was the wife of Pharaoh Ahmose. It is believed to have been created somewhere between 1279 BC – 1203 BC by Kha, the man who is carved into the bottom with his arms raised.

One of my favorite items in the exhibit was the Coffin Case of Bakenmut. I was taken by surprise at the beautiful artwork displayed both inside and out. Although not the sarcophagus of a pharaoh, it was the resting place of a member of the clergy of Amun at Thebes, a very rich man. It is estimated that it was built between 950 BC – 900 BC and made out of sycamore wood.

On the interior, there are images of two deified kings, Amenhotep I and Tuthmosis III from Dynasty 18. It is believed that Bakenmut desired to have an association with these kings in the afterlife.

I also enjoyed the wing of the exhibit that documented the lives of the royal family. Various everyday items displayed included jewelry as well as tiles and reliefs that decorated their opulent living spaces. One of my favorite pieces was the scarab beetle that dated back between 1391 BC to 1353 BC. The scarab symbolized immortality, resurrection, transformation and protection and most used to decorate tombs.

One of the most fascinating artifacts in the collection was the papyrus that dated back to 2454 BC – 2311 BC. This document revealed the administrative functions and economic procedures of that time period. For example, lists of offerings, calendars, accounts and inventory have been found by archaeologists and researchers.

When the pharaoh died elaborate tombs were designed to assist him with his passing and provided him with the items he would need in the afterlife. For example, many valuable objects would be buried with the pharaoh such as furniture, food and jewels. One of the most interesting objects was the shabti, a funerary figurine that was said to act as a servant for the deceased, carrying out manual labor after the pharaoh’s death. The turquoise Shabti of Seti I was said to have been carved from 1294 to 1279 BC.

Inside of the tomb, reliefs were painted to show images of the pharaoh in the afterlife. Seti I was the father of Ramses II and his tomb was considered the longest and deepest of all tombs discovered in the Valley of the Kings in Thebes. The fragment from his tomb has retained its original color and was part of the doorway .

The pharaoh lived a life of luxury not only on earth, but beyond his death. Valuable artifacts that were once the property of the pharaohs show the extravagant lifestyle for which they were accustomed. While many of us believe “you can’t take it with you”, the Egyptians would vehemently disagree.

The Pharaohs exhibit at The Cleveland Museum of Art was an insightful opportunity to explore the lives of the Egyptian pharaohs and to witness firsthand their riches and culture. The exhibit was on loan from the British Museum and was open to the public from March 13^th to June 12^th, 2016.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Cleveland Museum of Art? What was you favorite exhibit? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cleveland Museum of Art
11150 East Boulevard
Cleveland, OH 44106
Telephone: 216 421 7350

Admission Fee: Free for the permanent museum exhibits. Additional fees may apply for special exhibits and tickets can be purchased online, at the ticket center or by calling 216 421 7350.
Hours: Open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 10AM to 5PM; Open on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10AM to 9PM. Closed Mondays. Closed on the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The museum will close at 4PM on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
Amenities: On-site library and archives, restaurant, café, and museum store
Length of Visit: At least 3 hours for the permanent exhibit
Tips for Your Visit: Ensure that you have visited the museum’s website to confirm additional exhibits.

Where to Stay:

Glidden House at University Circle
1901 Ford Drive
Cleveland, OH 44106
Telephone: 216 231 8900

The Glidden House is a gorgeous boutique hotel built in 1910. Located in a prestigious residential neighborhood of Cleveland, this extraordinary French Gothic offers impressive amenities and services.

Where to Eat:

Trentina Restaurant at Glidden House
1903 Ford Drive
Cleveland, OH 44106
Telephone: 216.421.2900

Trentina is the sixth restaurant of Jonathan Sawyer, a James Beard Award winning chef offering Northern Italian cuisine and wine.

Check out more of these phenomenal artifacts from the Cleveland Museum of Art’s exhibit Pharaoh: King of Ancient Egypt! Enjoy!

What to Read:

Await Your Reply by Dan Chaon
The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
Cherry by Nico Walker
The Coming of Fabrizze by Raymond DeCapite
Derelict Paradise, by Daniel Kerr
The End by Salvatore Scibona
A Ghetto Takes Shape: Black Cleveland, by Kenneth L. Kusmer
The Greatest Thing Since Sliced Bread, by Don Robertson
The Headmaster’s Papers, by Richard Hawley
The Silent Syndicate, by Hank Messick
The Sparrow, by Mary Doria Russell

Photo Guide for Cleveland:

Abbey Road Skyline
Brewnuts is not only a lovely donut shop, but its nostalgic art deco interior is perfect for unique photos
A Christmas Story House in nearby Tremont
Civic Center District to photograph Cleveland’s City Hall, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and FirstEnergy Football Field
The Cleveland Arcade is one of the most photographed location in Cleveland so arrive early (8 or 9) before the crowds arrive.
Cleveland MetroParks Zoo
Cleveland Murals in Ohio City (close by)
Cleveland’s Museum of Art for its phenomenal architecture and exhibits
Cleveland Public Library
Cleveland Signs
Coastal Taco has some of the best views of the river in the city of Cleveland.
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Brecksville is for nature lovers.
The Flying Fig is a yummy cafe where outdoor photos are a must.
East Fourth Street is where you will find cozy cafes lining brick walkways
The Fountain of Eternal Life honors local residents who served in the military (photograph during the day AND night)
Great Lakes Brewing Company
Heinen’s Grocery Store to photograph the rotunda overlooking the food court and check out the terrace for additional photos
Holden Arboretum in nearby Kirtland
Lakeview Cemetery
Hope Memorial Bridge is the best place for photographing a cityscape photo of Cleveland
Located at Playhouse Square, Yours Truly is a chic cafe with exposed brick and stylish furniture and the infamous GE Chandelier
Pour Cleveland is a lovely coffee shop with an artsy interior.
Q Arena
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for its spectacular architecture and historical exhibits
Settler’s Landing Park is perfect for photographing several iconic locations in Cleveland.
Superior Viaduct Bridge
West Side Market is absolutely amazing for shooting food photos at each of the stalls, but a trip up to the second level by way of the corner staircase will provide a photo-worthy shot of the market from above.

Figure of Squatting Baboon, about 1391 – 1353 BC

Tiles from the Palace of Pharaoh Ramses III, about 1184 – 1153 BC

Rosette inlays from the Palace of Pharaoh Ramses III, about 1184 – 1153 BC

Statue of Government Official Sennefer, about 1479 – 1425 BC

Scarab adorning a finger – ring, about 1648 – 1540 BC

Great Harris Papyrus, about 1184 – 1153 BC

Shabtis of the many Pharaohs over the years

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A Look at Auschwitz, Seventy Years Later

1 September 201616 September 2024

In 2015, I decided to visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center when I learned that they were hosting the exhibit, Unlocking the Gates of Auschwitz, Seventy Years Later. While it was a small showcase of over 100 artifacts and memorabilia, what interested me most were the testimonies of two amazing Holocaust survivors who later immigrated to Cincinnati.

In 1943, Werner Coppel and Bella Ouziel were deported to Auschwitz-Birkenau. Coppel escaped during a death march and hid in the woods for a week until the camp was liberated by the Soviet Army in 1945. Bella Ouziel of Greece survived a death march to Bergen-Belsen, set free by the British in August of 1945.

The purpose of the exhibit was to “give a voice to the survivors and eyewitnesses of Auschwitz and invite us today to stand up against injustice around the world.” Many of the items on display for the first time come from private collections, archives and libraries. Curated by the Center for Holocaust and Humanity Education, the Cincinnati Museum Center and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center collaborated to make this exhibit available.

Long before concentration and death camps were planned by the Germans, Adolf Hitler was developing the Nazi ideology with this political manifesto and attempt to overthrow the Weimer government. By the mid-1930s, when Hitler came into power, propaganda against the Jews targeted impressionable children and anti-Semitic pamphlets were distributed throughout the country. Defining Jews as a “race”, the Nazis were able to brainwash the Germans into thinking that they were a genetically pure race compared to the Jews who were considered “subhuman.”

In addition, publications were developed to paint a negative view of anyone who disagreed with Hitler’s dogma and were considered enemies of the “Aryan” race. Manuals were provided to school teachers, training them in a destructive way of thinking towards Jews, gypsies, Poles, homosexuals, Afro-Germans and people with disabilities.

By 1938, passports held by Jews were identified with a red “J”.

By 1940, Jews were segregated into areas identified as ghettos and were required to wear the Jewish Star of David which would later identify Jews during the German deportation of Jews throughout German-occupied European countries.

The ghettos were the initial location where Jews were required to “carry out forced labor for the German Reich.” The Germans collected the currency owned by the Jews and exchanged the money for “Quittung”, which were receipts which could be traded for services or merchandise.

While these Jewish neighborhoods were meant as a short term solution for Jewish segregated housing, many died from disease, shootings and starvation. If they survived the ghetto, they were deported to one of several concentration or death camps throughout German-occupied countries.

Adolf Hitler idolized Charles Darwin and believed in the “the survival of the fittest.” He intended to create the “perfect race” to include the traits that affected appearance, body type, intelligence, and military skill. Having created his list of ideal characteristics, he began to determine one’s “racial purity” researching documentation of family histories and birth certificates.

“Transport trains began to deliver Jews in early 1942 as part of the Nazi extermination plan. Cramped rail cars without adequate food, shelter or facilities. Upon arrival, they went through a selection process where they were either deemed fit for work and admitted into the camp or were deemed unfit for work and sent immediately to one of four gas chambers where they were killed using Zyklon B, a pesticide. Those selected for extermination were primarily children, women with small children, sick or elderly. Their bodies were removed from the gas chambers by the sonderkommando, groups of Jews forced to dispose of the corpses on threat of their own deaths.” Auschwitz Exhibit

When children arrived to Auschwitz, they were, more often than not, immediately sent to the gas chambers. Children aged 12 and over were forced to work in the camps and were subject to medical experimentation. While thousands of children survived (because they were hidden), it was estimated that over 1.5 children were killed during the Holocaust.

With such disdain for children, it seems ironic that the prison camps were making children’s shoes at work camps such as Buchenwald as well as Auschwitz. Bella Ouziel, a Holocaust survivor discusses how she was required to sort shoes at Auschwitz.

Non-Jewish groups were also transported to the concentration and death camps during the Holocaust to include the Gypsies. They were identified by brown triangle patches with an assigned number. The Romas, or Sintis, were considered undesirable and were murdered in the tens of thousands, dying in gas vans poisoned with carbon monoxide.

“Bella Ouziel remembers the transport of Roma where were sent to the family camp. She remembers that the next day, they had all been sent to the crematorium ca, 1943” – The Auschwitz Exhibit

Within the extermination camps, the Nazi’s began to use canisters containing Zyklon B pellets to carry out their “Final Solution”. Commonly used as a pesticide, Zyklon B was used in Auschwitz to murder Soviet POWs and it was later used at the other camps.

In addition to extermination, German physicians carried out inhuman experiments on prisoners. On display at the exhibit was a file which contained Dr. Josef Mengele’s “findings” as he conducted his “research”. Various tools were utilized such as calipers to measure head size, eye charts to determine vision and dental charts, all used to quantify Nazi ideology.

By the time Auschwitz was liberated by the Soviets in 1945, over 1.3 million prisoners were deported here. The Germans, realizing the end was near, forced 58,000 prisoners to evacuate Auschwitz, marching over 30 miles to the Bergen-Belsen camp. It is estimated that 1.1 million people were killed here and thousands more died as a result of the death march in 1945. When the Soviets arrived, only 7,000 prisoners remained.

The Polish Parliament mandated that Auschwitz-Birkenau to be created as a state museum in 1947. More than one million visitors come from around the world to learn about the history of Auschwitz and the Holocaust.

“Unlocking the Gates of Auschwitz 70 Years Later” celebrates the survivors of Auschwitz, details the inhumane, cruel treatment that the Germans inflicted on millions of innocent people and reminds us that we need to stand up for the freedom of all mankind.

Were you able to visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center for the Auschwitz exhibit or have you been to Auschwitz-Birkenau State Museum? I would be interested in hearing your thoughts if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my experience at the National Underground Freedom Center and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The National Underground Freedom Center
50 East Freedom Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 333 7500

Admission Fee: $15 for Adults, $10.50 for children ages 3 – 12, Seniors 60+ for $13 and children 3 and under is free of charge.
Hours: Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM from Tuesday to Saturday and from Noon to 5 PM on Sunday and Monday; Tickets sold until 4PM.
Amenities: Historic tours, Exhibits, Geneology, Group Tours, Rental Space, African American bookstore, Gift Shop, North Star Café, Special Exhibits
Scenic View: The view of the Ohio River and Kentucky
Length of Visit: 4 hours
Travel Tip: Backpacks, large bags and umbrellas are not permitted in the museum.

Where to Stay:

Millennium Hotel Cincinnati
150 W. 5th Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 352 2100

Where to Eat:

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

I was so happy to see the Caprese Flatbread on the menu and I ordered a couple of local beers. The restaurant was busy because the Cincinnati Reds were playing and the location is close to the stadium.

During a later date, I visited with a friend where we ordered a flight of beer and the Meat and Cheese board which was served with grilled beer bread, spicy mustard, applekraut and pickles. We selected two meats (prosciutto and candied pork belly) as well as two cheeses (Red Dragon mustard Welsh cheddar, which is a favorite of mine and the Cabot Hot Habanero Cheddar). Exceptional! Additional meat and cheese samples are available for $4 each.

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:

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

Books 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 for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

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Fish and Chips at the Old Bag of Nails Pub in Hilliard, Ohio

25 August 201622 July 2024

I called a British friend of mine to meet me for lunch at The Old Bag of Nails Pub and explained that this was one of my favorite go-to places for authentic Fish and Chips. Surprised by the name, he said he thought that this was a coffee shop rather than a restaurant. I guessed he was confusing the restaurant with Chock Full O’Nuts…who knows, but we agreed that the Hilliard location was closest for both of us.

I quickly learned, through the magic of the internet, that this restaurant had originally opened in a former hardware store, so hence the name, The Old Bag of Nails. Regardless, you can’t go wrong with pub food and a pint.

Located on the corner of Norwich and Main Street in Old Hilliard, the restaurant is easily accessible with plenty of parking spaces. Graham was waiting as I parallel parked and we were quickly seated at a nearby booth. Handed our menus, we each placed our order for a pint of Guinness.

Although I usually know what I am going to order, I am always tempted to order the all you can eat fish and chips. There are two options which include fried cod or baked cod with a dill dip. The portions are unbelievably large, with two pieces of fried fish. Just thinking about the fried fish batter makes my mouth water. It is served with coleslaw, tartar sauce and a side of French fries that could feed a family of five. I love to add malt vinegar to both the fish and fries.

I can hardly eat the first piece of fried fish, but my server brings me a piece of baked fish so that I can try it. The dill dip that comes with the baked option really compliments the flavor of the cod. I’m glad I tried it, but now I’m wondering how I could feel so full. I want to blame the fish, but then again, it could be the ale. Yes, it was probably the ale. I guess I’ll just have to go home and take a nap.

Have you had the opportunity to visit The Old Bag of Nails Pub? Besides the fish and chips, what other menu items are your favorite? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!

Where to Eat:

The Old Bag of Nails Pub
4065 Main Street
Hilliard, Ohio 43026
Telephone: 614 777 0713

You can’t go wrong with the best Fish & Chips in town!

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

The Bar at The Old Bag of Nails Pub

Inside the Old Bag of Nails Pub in Old Hilliard, Ohio

Cedar Falls at Hocking Hills

18 August 201616 September 2024

One of my favorite childhood memories of visiting Hocking Hills State Park was hiking to Cedar Falls. Starting our adventure at the trailhead of Ash Cave, we would pack a picnic lunch setting out towards Old Man’s Cave as our final destination. Today, I was hiking with my friend Sarah and it brought back such great childhood memories.

It was easy to follow the trail as the pathway was marked by blue blazes, a section of Ohio’s Buckeye Trail. At the start of our trek, we hiked inside of the gorge and later reached the rim for some spectacular views.

There was a small chill in the air as we were surrounded by the local Black Hand Sandstone and bare hemlock trees. The water had frozen over and waterfalls seemed suspended in ice.

We finally reached the fifty foot drop of Cedar Falls in the valley of Queer Creek. While not the tallest or most breathtaking, these falls are the largest in volume than other falls throughout the park. This was the reward for hiking Cedar Falls, so we took in the view and decided it was time for lunch before continuing the second half of our hike.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Cedar Falls? What other aspects of your hike did you enjoy? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments below. Many thanks for reading my short post about Cedar Falls and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cedar Falls at Hocking Hills
21724 Ohio State Route 374
Logan, OH 43188

Admission Fee: There is no fee for hiking the trail.
Hours: Open daily
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking. The rim trail can be very dangerous, so check out the trail before bringing children with you. Stay on the trail. Visit the nature preserve’s website for a map.

Where to Stay:

Hocking Hills Inn and Coffee Emporium
13984 OH-664 Scenic
Logan, OH 43138
Telephone: 740 270 2697

Where to Eat:

Millstone Southern Smoked BBQ
12790 Grey Street
Logan, OH 43138
Telephone: 740 385 5341

What to Read:

Hocking Hills, by Doreen McMillian
Hocking Hills Day Hikes, by Mary Reed

Springtime in Sharon Woods, Metro Park, Columbus

11 August 201616 September 2024

It was a beautiful weekend and my mother had come to meet me in Columbus for a visit. I told her about the great wildlife that I had been seeing lately at Sharon Woods and she wanted to come along to see it for herself. We are both nature lovers, so it only made sense that we should wake up before sunrise and head out for an early morning walk along one of the paved trails at the park.

It was a foggy morning and just as we were pulling into the Sharon Woods, we noticed a deer and her fawn to our right. They were so close to our car and did not seem to mind, so I thought I would exit my car and take a couple of photos. Slowly inching closer for the perfect shot, it was then that the mother gave me a hearty snort and a signal from her hoof warning me to keep my distance. Realizing that she was not too pleased, I returned to my car hoping that I had taken some great pics.

Within minutes, the fog was lifting and we managed to stay on point with our hike which was not going to take much time. We stopped to listen to the sounds in the trees and to identify some of the plants, insects and animals along the way. The vibrant colors of butterflies landing against the greenery and blooms were a sign that spring had finally arrived.

With each step, the musical sounds of the birds were coming towards us at every direction and we were surrounded by blue jays, orioles and cardinals. The male cardinals were easy to find with their bold red colors and we could see the females resting on the tree limbs nearby.

Schrock Lake was full of activity with ducks and geese paddling and chasing each other along the shoreline. We found a front row seat on a nearby bench along the dock and watched the signs of spring before heading back to the trail.

We had just returned to the walking path when we encountered a wild turkey and her chicks. This was the first time I had ever seen them at Sharon Woods, so I was happy that I had brought along my camera. I’ve hiked many of the Columbus Metro Parks and Sharon Woods is one of my favorites, just for the simple reason to experience its wildlife.

Do you have a favorite Metro Park in Columbus? I would love to hear where you like to spend time outdoors, so if you would leave your story in the comments, section, that would be great! Many thanks for reading about my day at Sharon Woods and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Sharon Woods Metro Park
6911 Cleveland Avenue
Westerville, OH 43081
Telephone: 614 315 5520

Admission Fee: Free
Hours: Daily from 6:30AM to 10PM from April through September and from 6:30AM to 8PM from October through
Amenities: Park programs, trails, shelters, biking, fishing, picknicking, and sledding
Scenic View: Early morning and dusk, there are several types of animals that roam the park.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours or more depending on the activity

Where to Stay:

DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Columbus Downtown
50 South Front Street
Columbus, OH 43215
Telephone: 614 228 4600

Where to Eat:

Yanni’s Greek Restaurant
6196 Cleveland Avenue
Columbus, OH 43231
Telephone: 614 890 4775

I had a light lunch here ordering the tzatziki sauce with pita bread.

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

Dine at Culp’s Cafe in Carillon Park, Dayton

30 July 201616 September 2024

UPDATE! Since my visit in 2016, Culp’s Cafe has expanded as a full-service restaurant where waiters and waitresses in period costumes will take your order. Check out the counter where you will find the large soda fountain on display.

During a visit to Carillon Park, I had the opportunity to dine in at the historical Culp’s Cafe. Surrounded by early 20th century architecture and design, this delightful eatery was built to resemble local Culp’s Cafeteria of the 1930’s, when Dayton was on the rise with ingenuity and invention.

Cafeterias have since been replaced by restaurants and buffets, but were once popular food service locations. Think hospitals and high schools where food would be displayed at a counter, you could make your selection and pay the cashier for your purchase. At one time, this was how one would order food and then find a dining room table or counter to enjoy their food.

Inside are photos of acclaimed diner, Culp’s Cafeteria, a historical eatery founded by Charlotte Gilbert Culp, whose success story is quite fascinating. According to the Carillon Historical Park website, Charlotte was a widow who prepared baked goods and sold them door to door to support her six children which led to her opening a stand at Dayton’s South Main Street Market. Expanding the business, Charlotte’s son Howard, opened three lunch counters at Dayton’s Arcade, a three-story indoor market with over 200 stalls. In 1931, the Culp’s Cafeteria opened at the Arcade with its fountain and full-service restaurant, later expanding throughout the Dayton area.

According to the feed on Dayton History Books Online, Culp’s was a popular spot with the local police and locals.

The black and white floor tiles and red cushioned bar stools are reminiscent of the early 1900’s diners. There is a small deli refrigerator where you can select a couple of items to enjoy for lunch. I decided on the chicken salad with a milkshake, a typical meal one would order at a diner and set off to continue my exploration of Carillon Historical Park.

Have you visited Culp’s Cafe? Do you have some insight on its history? I would love to learn more about the history of Culp’s Cafeteria in the late 1900s if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my lunch stop at Culp’s Cafe and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Culp’s Cafe at Carillon Historical Park
1000 Carillon Blvd.
Dayton, OH 45409
Telephone: 937 299 2277

Supporting Female Brewers at Yellow Springs Brewery

23 July 201622 July 2024

If I could choose between wine and beer, I would much rather choose a robust red, but my experience at Yellow Spring Brewery left me wanting to visit more craft breweries in the state of Ohio.

When I think about ordering a beer, it’s usually a Bud Light with an order of chicken wings at the local pub or with a hot dog at a baseball game. So when my friend, Dave suggested we visit Yellow Springs Brewery, I was curious to learn more about the craft brew craze and sample a few handcrafted ales and lagers.

Located on Walnut Street, the brewery is tucked away on a side street of town and can be a little difficult to find. Once we found it, we parked our car and walked the gravel drive towards the entrance.

When we arrived at the large warehouse, we immediately noticed several large tanks which store the beer after fermentation and filtering. The brewery offers a tour of the facility with an explanation of how they make their beer, followed by an opportunity to sample some of them in their spacious, comfortable tasting room.

Strolling into the brewery, we were directed toward the large blackboard that listed all of the available drinks. Feeling a bit overwhelmed, I couldn’t help but feel as though I was reading a foreign language. After a few questions and a long look at the menu, the staff were eager to help me select a flight which included mostly lagers and ales.

From top to bottom, the list of beers start from light to dark. The server suggested I start with the first four options and go from there should I decide to order more. I chose the following: Femme Ale, Kerfuffle, Wyatt’s Eviction and First Lost Episode.Without waiting long, our selections arrived on cute little silver paddles and the names of the craft beers were listed on a yellow colored sheet. I was able to reference each of the samples and write my notes on the card. What a great way to remember which ones I really liked to place another order and to rate them for my own reference.

The first beer was a Gose beer described as a German style wheat ale brewed with coriander and salt. A light and pillowy beer with a hint of floral spice, a touch of salt and a mellow acidity. It has an ABV of 4.5% and a low IBU. For a full glass, it is served in a 14 ounce tulip. I had no idea that beer was served in any type of glass beside a frosty mug. This selection represented the Pink Boots Society Big Boots brew day, recognizing female brewers.

My opinion: very light – soft and smooth with a hint of citrus, the color looks like a cloudy lemonade; In addition to the lovely flavor of the beer, what I liked was that it was produced by a group of women who are a part of an organization called the Pink Boots Society. A $2 donation for each glass purchased goes towards the society to offset cost for further craft beer development,

The Kerfuffle was my second sample and I was a little thrown off by the darkness of its color. I had assumed that dark beers would have a more stout taste, but I was pleasantly surprised with this one. It is described as an English Mild, rich and smooth Maris Otter against almost no hops or alcohol creating a monster of an English Mild…or just a, well, great mild. Let’s beer geek out! It has an ABV of 3.1% and a low IBU. For a full glass, it is served in a 16 ounce pub glass.

My opinion: a light coffee aroma with a smooth texture….the color is dark, similar to a black coffee.

On to Wyatt’s Eviction which is an English Pale Ale and probably one that I am most familiar. The summary states that it is an English malt, hops and yeast. Yep! They’re in there. The focus of this English style bitter is balance. The clean malt character holds the earthy and floral hops together with a beautiful fruity yeast note that refreshes the palate with each sip. It has an ABV of 4.8% and a moderate IBU. For a full glass, it is served in a 16 ounce pub glass.

My opinion: dry and earthy, color that looks like a typical beer

Finally, I sampled the First Lost Episode which is a Belgian Fruit Beer with Cherries. This beer is considered a Saison-style Ale brewed with Montmorency cherries to give it a burst of tangy and fruity notes. Well balanced and never sweet. It has an ABV of 4.9% and a low IBU. For a full glass, it is served in a 14 ounce tulip.

My opinion: tastes like Leinenkugle Shanty….which I absolutely love.

Dave’s selections were on the thicker, darker side, but he found a beer that he liked and we both ordered a full sized beer before strolling through the charming town of Yellow Springs.

While I don’t claim to be a craft beer connoisseur, I enjoyed my experience and realized I had a lot to learn about craft beer. I plan to check out some of the acronyms, craft beer lingo and maybe learn how to taste the flavors that are listed in their descriptions. But regardless, we had a blast during our visit and thank the patient folks at Yellow Springs Brewery for all of their help in assisting us in our beer selection. We look forward to coming back again soon for another round or two.

Have you visited Yellow Springs Brewery or can provide me any tips when trying craft beers? Please leave me a message in the comments section below and wishing you many Happy Travels. Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Yellow Springs Brewery
305 North Walnut Street
Yellow Springs, OH 45387
Telephone: 937 767 0222

Check out the website for taproom hours and a list of craft beers available.

Where to Stay:

Mills Park Hotel
321 Xenia Avenue
Yellow Springs, OH 45387
Telephone: 937 319 0400

Where to Eat:

Winds Cafe
215 Xenia Avenue
Yellow Springs, OH 45387
Telephone: 937 767 1144

My favorite menu is the Winds Charcuterie Plate, a selection of Winds kitchen’s pates and terrines, including imported and domestic cured meats, pickles and house condiments.

What to Read:

Not That I Could Tell, by Jessica Strawser

Photo Guide to Yellow Springs:

Clifton Gorge
Colorful, Artsy Streets
Glen Helen Nature Reserve
John Bryan State Park
Sunflower Field, located at 4625 US-68, Yellow Springs (The Tecumseh Sunflower Field)
Wall Murals
- Preparation for Life Work by Axel Horn hangs in the Yellow Springs Post Office
- Village Cyclery is the location of the oldest mural in Yellow Springs
- “Kieth’s Alley” located behind the shops on the east side of Xenia Avenue between Cory and Glen Street showcases several murals
- Winds Cafe displays one of the largest murals in town
- Ohio Silver Co. displays a beautiful painting by Maxfield Parrish
- The patio of Sunrise Cafe
- The Smoking Octopus displays the works of Sarah Dickens
- The Xenia Avenue Shops’ painting was created by local Mandy Knaul (Mandy Sue)
- Corner Cone mural designed by Pierre Nagley
- Kings Yard murals

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

Garlicky Goodness at La Pizzeria in Little Italy, Cleveland

16 July 20163 August 2024

It’s early Saturday evening and I am driving around Little Italy in Cleveland in search of an Italian Restaurant for lunch. My stomach is growling and mouth watering from the smell of garlic and pizza dough. I passed by La Pizzeria, just off of the main drag where I found a parking spot down the street. I followed my nose to a cute little pizza parlor with outdoor seating. Taking a seat along the cobblestone street, this was the perfect stop for a pizza pie.

The cook behind the counter was busy making pizzas but took a moment to take my order for a small Aglio e Olio pizza. He mentioned that it would take fifteen to twenty minutes as he was wrapping up twenty-five pizzas for a local graduation party. Watching him place the pizzas in the warmer and the smell of garlic and butter, I knew it would be worth the wait.

I ordered a medium 8 cut and took a seat alongside the beautifully bricked roads. Sitting beneath the Italian flags, I reviewed my photos of the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage. I had visited both of these locations earlier to take in a couple of exhibits and before I could finish my photo review, my pizza was being delivered to my table.

Loaded with a variety of white cheeses, butter, garlic and olive oil, this pizza transported me temporarily into culinary heaven. Sinking my teeth into the first piece of pie, I was so excited with the thickness of the cheese as it pulled away from pizza. The perfect combination of garlic, olive oil and spices were divinely decadent and I enjoyed every bite. The thin crust was perfectly cooked, just as the cheese was broiled to perfection. I was super excited that I would have to box up a few pieces to have over the next couple of days.

I looked over the menu one last time to take notice of the long list of gourmet pizzas that included Gigi’s Veggie and Nico’s Philly. There are calzones, pastas, salads, wings, freshly baked subs and an appetizer menu that includes the Salerno Family’s Homemade Meatballs. If the items on the menu are just half as fabulous as the Aglio e Olio pizza, it’s no wonder the call in orders keep coming in nonstop.

I checked in again at the front counter for a box for my pizza and settled up my bill before heading out the door. I was tempted by the Italian Gelato and dessert pizzas, but I will be just as happy thinking about my spectacular leftovers that I will enjoy over the next couple of days. I hope I can wait that long…I may need to break into the box before I make it home.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Little Italy in Cleveland? I would love to hear about the restaurant(s) you visited and what you ordered if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

Where to Eat:

La Pizzeria
2188 Murray Hill Road
Cleveland, OH 44106
Telephone: 216 229 9050

With so many restaurant choices in the Little Italy district of Cleveland, La Pizzeria is one of my favorites!

Little Italy, Cleveland, Ohio