Tag Archives: Akron

Things to Do in Ohio in the Month of May

 

The Monticello III, Coshocton, Ohio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to See and What to Do:

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

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

Where to Stay:

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

Where to Eat:

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

What to Read:

  • I Remember Roscoe, by Robert Hull

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

Strolling Through Stan Hywet Hall’s Beautiful Gardens

Home to famous basketball player LeBron James, Akron, Ohio was once known as the “Rubber Capital of the World.”  The world’s largest tire manufacturer, Goodyear began their operations in 1898.  Co-founder F.A. Sieberling built his Tudor Revival manor home in Akron where he lived with his wife Gertrude from 1915 to 1955.

This gorgeous 64,500 square foot home, named Stan Hywet (pronounced HEE-wit) was designed by Cleveland architect, Charles Sumner Schneider on 70 acres to include the main mansion as well as a greenhouse, carriage house and extravagant gardens.

Entering the estate through a large gate off of North Portage Path, I passed the impressive Gate Lodge.  Once the residence to the estate’s administrator, it was later home to Frederick and his wife and has been recognized as the “Birthplace of Alcoholics Anonymous.”

A short walk from the parking area, I began my tour of Stan Hywet by entering the Carriage House, one of five historic buildings on the property.  Once the stable, living quarters for the chauffer and groomsmen, it was also the garage for the estate’s ten cars, a car wash and mechanic’s stall.  Today it houses Molly’s Shop and Café and the Admissions office offering several visitor’s services to include Lost and Found, First Aid, and restrooms.

The staff were extremely helpful in providing me with a map which outlined several self-guided tours of the main structures as well as the gardens.  In addition, there are several guided tours of the mansion to include behind-the scenes tours.   From here, visitors can book tram service upon request and enjoy a picnic lunch at nearby picnic tables.

Within the Carriage House is the Orientation room displaying family photos as well as an in-depth overview of Stan Hywet’s construction.

The Guest Services attendant suggested that I start my tour of the Stan Hywet’s 70 acres of gardens and landscaping.  A wedding party had made reservations at 1PM to take photographs throughout the gardens so I had a couple of hours before their arrival.

Exiting the Carriage House, I made my way towards the Manor House bearing left towards the Plane Tree Allee until I found myself at the entrance to the English Garden.  This was Gertrude Seiberling’s favorite garden.

This sunken walled garden was designed by Boston landscape architect, Warren Manning in 1915.  Surrounded by flora and fauna, the stone walls were reminiscent of a Roman ruin.  In 1928, Gertrude reached out to prominent American female landscape designer, Ellen Biddle Shipman, to redesign this garden showcasing over 3300 perennials.

I approached a shallow pool with light tan brick decking and flower boxes overflowing with vibrant pink blooms.  A short set of stairs towards the back of the garden lead to the focal point of this extravagant garden, “The Garden of the Water Goddess”, created by sculptor, Willard Dryden Paddock.

En route to the Japanese Gardens, I found myself walking through the Perennial Garden, reminiscent to the gardens of England. The gardens, also designed by landscape artist Warren Manning, display colorful flowers in this transitional space.

Before reaching the Japanese Garden, there is a West Overlook, a popular location for wedding photos.

Japanese Gardens were making their way onto prominent estates in the early 1900s.  With the assistance of J.R. Otsuka, Manning was able to design this space using plants indigenous to cold weather locations such as Michigan and the North Atlantic.   This garden can be seen from the estate’s Terrace and West Overlook.

The original plans included the addition of a conservatory off of the Breakfast Room but a decision was made to relocate the structure to another location, leaving the option to add a garden in this space.  Flowers planted in this garden match the Breakfast Room colors of white, blue, yellow or purple.

The simple yet elegant fountain that stands in the garden was purchased by Gertrude during a shopping trip to New York.  

After an extensive look at the Manor House (see upcoming blog post), I strolled through the Birch Tree Allee, made up of 100 gray birches connecting the main house to the Tea House.  Measuring 550 feet long, this was one of my favorite locations on site.

There are two teahouses at the end of the Allee made of stone, timber and slate. The lagoon was a former stone quarry that was used as a recreation area for the family.   Used for fishing, canoeing and swimming, this was a popular area for the family to gather for activities.

The Birch Tree Allee reaches the Grape Arbor which extends towards the Corbin Conservatory.  Grape vines cling to the brick columns as they reach towards the top of the arbor.  This was one of the places where you could find the Seiberling grandchildren at play.

The nearby three-acre Great Garden was not only a flower garden to provide fresh blooms for the Manor House but also a Rose Garden.  Not far from the garden, the Play Garden was added to include activities for children, more flowers and a beautiful fountain.

The final stop on my tour of Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens was the Corbin Conservatory.  Designed for the Seiberlings to grow produce, this beautiful glass structure was made of 4,322 panes of laminated glass.  Today, there are several plants from various regions throughout the United States.

I thoroughly enjoyed the colorful gardens throughout the Stan Hywet Estate and made my final stop at the Carriage House for a little shopping.  I am looking forward to sharing more photos and details about the Stan Hywet Hall in a post that will be available soon.

Have you visited Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens?  What tours did you take?  What was your favorite memory of your visit?  I would love to hear about your time at this fantastic historical home if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Many thanks for reading about my adventure to Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens and don’t forget to check out more photos of my visit after the information section. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
714 N. Portage Path
Akron, OH 44303
Telephone:  330 836 5533

    • Admission Fee:  Non-Members – Adults 18 and over are $15; Non-Member Youth (6 – 17): $6 and Stan Hywet Members are free.  Visit their website for membership prices.
    • Hours:  Estate Hours: April – November/Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM to 6PM  last admission at 4:30;  Closed on Mondays; Please check the website as they are closed during the winter season after the Deck the Hall festivities.
    • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours
    • Tips for your Visit: Do not lean, sit on or touch collection items or the interior of the historic house museum as it is more fragile than it appears.  Food, gum, beverages and drinks are prohibited throughout the house.  Begin in the English Gardens as there will be a wedding that will be taking place at 1PM. Manor house hosts are stationed throughout the hotel to assist visitors with their tour.  Stan Hywet welcomes motor coach travelers and other groups and an advanced reservation is required by calling  Group Sales: 330 315 3284.  Visit Stan Hywet’s website for December Hours and Deck the Halls Exhibit;  Restrooms are located in the Corbin Conservatory and the lower level of the Manor House. Backpacks are not permitted in the Manor House but may be stored in the Powder Room.
    • Photography is permitted in the Manor House, however, no flash or professional photo equipment or videography permitted; Photos only with cellphone or handheld cameras only.  No photography permitted on guided tours but is encouraged on the grounds and in the Corbin Conservatory; Must have a photography membership to use monopods and tripods in the gardens, unless it is part of a pre approved commercial photography session; Selfie sticks not permitted;  No private photography is authorized for commercial reproduction.
    • Guided tours of the Manor House are offered on the hour between 11 am and 4 pm. Guests who prefer a more leisurely experience may choose a self guided tour of the Estate buildings, gardens and grounds, available anytime between 11 am and 4:30 PM.  Experience one of their specialty tours:
      • Blueprints to Bricks (noon, daily, May 1 – September 30) highlights Stan Hywet from conception to creation
      •  Nooks and Crannies tour (3 times daily) is a  behind the scenes experience
      • Grand Estate Tour (noon, daily) provides information on the Estate’s historical landscape elements.

Where to Stay:

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
1420 Main Street
Cuyahoga Falls, OH  44221
Telephone:  330 926 1233
Website:  https://www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/hotels/country-inn-cuyahoga-falls-oh?cid=a:se+b:gmb+c:amer+i:local+e:cis+d:us+h:OHCUYAHO

Where to Eat: 

Molly’s Café & Shop is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm at Stan Hywet

The Blue Door Cafe and Bakery
1970 State Road
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Telephone:  330 926 9774

My favorite menu item is their Chicken & Waffles:   jalapeno & cheddar buttermilk waffle, buttermilk & pepper brined southern style green circle, free range chicken, bourbon organic maple syrup, whiskey butter, house made hot sauce, organic blackberries

What to Read:

  • The Seiberling Family, by Julie Frey
  • The Gate Lodge, by Julie Frey

The Living Quarters at Stan Hywet Hall

Having just toured the first floor of the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, it was time for me to explore the second floor of the Manor which housed 18 bedrooms for family, friends and staff.

The Master Bedroom was complete with two beds, a wood fireplace, library, bay window seating and an incredibly large bathroom.  The room was spacious with a desk, couch, and beautifully engraved furniture.  What was once state-of-the art fixtures and amenities are now somewhat antiquated as technology has evolved.

The Red Bedroom was Franklin’s room and the youngest of the Seiberling family.  The Head Housekeeper’s room was close to Franklin’s to help him should he awake in the middle of the night.

Willard and Penfield Seiberling shared the blue room where they had an adjoining bathroom with a shower.

The Seiberlings were known to entertain and host guests throughout their stay at Stan Hywet Hall.  At times, family members, such as Gertrude’s mother or Henrietta’s parents also made the mansion their home as their health declined.

It was common for the children to return to Stan Hywet over various times throughout their lives and were always welcomed by their parents.

The Colonial was one of several guest rooms which featured a large walk-in closet and private bathroom.  During the Nooks and Crannies tour, visitors can explore the closed doors that lead to the domestic staff for the women.

Passing two of the additional guest rooms, I approached the steps leading to Irene’s bedroom. Beautifully exposed beams and  vaulted ceilings remind me of the Great Room downstairs.  The eldest of Seiberling’s daughters, Irene was a free-spirit in her time marrying at the age of thirty-three.  Assisting in the design of the manor, she traveled with her family to England, visiting several English homes and  flew to New York with her mother to help design the interior of the house.

Virginia’s style was much different than that of her older sister, decorating her room in the style of Louis XVI French Provincial.  Nine years younger than Irene, married immediately after graduating and would have six boys and four girls.  Later, the family would move back into the house until they were financially stable having been affected by the Great Depression.

Beautiful parquet floors and outdoor balcony were highlights to Mrs. Seiberling’s Dressing Room. I was impressed by the many closets showcasing some of the beautiful dresses once worn by Gertrude.

Visitors can explore more of the house by attending the Nooks and Crannies tour to visit the Gymnasium, Dark Room and Wood Room while additional tours include the Filter Room, Boiler Room, Changing Room, Wine Room and Laundry Room.

Stan Hywet was an expansive family home that included additional buildings no longer standing.  I was able to visit during the Celebrating Family: Sharing Our Stories exhibit in 2016 where audio clips of family members told stories about their life at the manor.

In addition to special exhibits, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens continues its passion for entertaining guests with its events throughout the year.  Join the docents and tour guides at this gorgeous venue for their Easter Egg Hunt and Breakfast,  Woof Walks, Teas, Educational Programs and other holiday tours and experiences.  Visit their website for more information.

Have you visited Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens?  What tours did you take?  What was your favorite memory of your visit?  I would love to hear about your time at this fantastic historical home if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Many thanks for reading about my adventure to Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens and don’t forget to check out more photos of my visit after the information section. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
714 N. Portage Path
Akron, OH 44303
Telephone:  330 836 5533

    • Admission Fee:  Non-Members – Adults 18 and over are $15; Non-Member Youth (6 – 17): $6 and Stan Hywet Members are free.  Visit their website for membership prices.
    • Hours:  Estate Hours: April – November/Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM to 6PM  last admission at 4:30;  Closed on Mondays; Please check the website as they are closed during the winter seasonafter the Deck the Hall festivities.
    • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours
    • Tips for your Visit: Do not lean, sit on or touch collection items or the interior of the historic house museum as it is more fragile than it appears.  Food, gum, beverages and drinks are prohibited throughout the house.  Begin in the English Gardens as there will be a wedding that will be taking place at 1PM. Manor house hosts are stationed throughout the hotel to assist visitors with their tour.  Stan Hywet welcomes motor coach travelers and other groups and an advanced reservation is required by calling  Group Sales: 330 315 3284.  Visit Stan Hywet’s website for December Hours and Deck the Halls Exhibit;  Restrooms are located in the Corbin Conservatory and the lower level of the Manor House. Backpacks are not permitted in the Manor House but may be stored in the Powder Room.
    • Photography is permitted in the Manor House, however, no flash or professional photo equipment or videography permitted; Photos only with cellphone or handheld cameras only.  No photography permitted on guided tours but is encouraged on the grounds and in the Corbin Conservatory; Must have a photography membership to use monopods and tripods in the gardens, unless it is part of a pre approved commercial photography session; Selfie sticks not permitted;  No private photography is authorized for commercial reproduction.
    • Guided tours of the Manor House are offered on the hour between 11 am and 4 pm. Guests who prefer a more leisurely experience may choose a self guided tour of the Estate buildings, gardens and grounds, available anytime between 11 am and 4:30 PM.  Experience one of their specialty tours:
      • Blueprints to Bricks (noon, daily, May 1 – September 30) highlights Stan Hywet from conception to creation
      •  Nooks and Crannies tour (3 times daily) is a  behind the scenes experience
      • Grand Estate Tour (noon, daily) provides information on the Estate’s historical landscape elements.

Where to Stay:

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
1420 Main Street
Cuyahoga Falls, OH  44221
Telephone:  330 926 1233
Website:  https://www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/hotels/country-inn-cuyahoga-falls-oh?cid=a:se+b:gmb+c:amer+i:local+e:cis+d:us+h:OHCUYAHO

Where to Eat: 

Molly’s Café & Shop is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm at Stan Hywet

The Blue Door Cafe and Bakery
1970 State Road
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Telephone:  330 926 9774

My favorite menu item is their Chicken & Waffles:   jalapeno & cheddar buttermilk waffle, buttermilk & pepper brined southern style green circle, free range chicken, bourbon organic maple syrup, whiskey butter, house made hot sauce, organic blackberries

What to Read:

  • The Seiberling Family, by Julie Frey
  • The Gate Lodge, by Julie Frey

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio

I was so excited for the opportunity to visit the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, Ohio.  Entering through the Gate Lodge, I was immediately welcomed by a lovely street lined with apple trees.  I parked at the lot near the Carriage House and approached the stables to purchase my ticket.

Stan Hywet Hall was the home of Goodyear Tire and Rubber executive F.A. Seiberling and his five children for 40 years.  The 64,500 home had 65 rooms, 23 bathrooms, 23 fireplaces, billiard room, music room and indoor swimming pool.  Approaching this fabulous manor, it reminded me of a Downton Abbey Estate with butlers, cooks and other essential staff.

With so many details, it would take nearly 3000 blueprints and architectural drawings to complete its design.  In addition, the building materials were shipped by train to the site by way of an additional railroad spur constructed solely for this project.

After exploring the gardens, I was ready to learn more about the Seiberlings by exploring their Tudor Revival estate home.   The circular drive in front of the home would have welcomed such guests as Shirley Temple and Will Rogers who visited Stan Hywet to entertain their guests.

Above the entryway is the Seiberlings’ crest which welcomes guests with its Latin inscription “Non Nobis Solum” which translates to “Not for Us.”

From the entryway, the butler would have greeted the family’s guest and directed them to the reception room until one of the family members would have welcomed them to their home. According to the guides at Stan Hywet, ninety-five percent of the furniture within the manor are original to the Estate.

Leaving the reception area, visitors would take a left and walk down the Linenfold Hallway.  This space was decorated with oak paneled walls that were ornately carved to look as though they were made of fabric.  Straight ahead, guests would then enter the Round Room.

One of my favorite rooms of the Manor, the Round Room acted as a reception area before guests would be led into the Music Room to be entertained.

The Solarium is right off of the Round Room and was paneled with beautiful sandlewood and a diamond patterned overlay.  The family used this space as a game room where they would play parlor games.  Some of the games they would enjoy included bridge, rummy and dominoes.  Exiting the Solarium there is a telephone to the right as one enters the Music Room.    During my tour, I was able to pick up the phone, select a numeric code, and listen to one of the family members discuss their fond memories of Stan Hywet.

The Music Room measured a grand 2700 square feet and was the perfect size for hosting large events.  It was here where their daughter Irene was married.  The spectacular Aeolian organ, with its 2433 pipes could be played manually or automatically by using music rolls.

Towards the west of the home is the screened-in Sun Parlor.  An effort to bring the outdoors inside is evident by the fountain and floor tile.  Designed by Mary Chase Stratton of Detroit, Michigan, this fountain was based on the poem by Robert Southey’s “The Well of St. Keyne.”

The Library was decorated with gorgeous paneling of black walnut and oil paintings on the ceiling.  This space, used for reading and relaxation, was often visited by Franklin who was well-read and had attended graduate school at the University of Chicago.  The bookcase hides a secret passageway which leads to the Great Hall.

The Great Hall, measuring three stories high, is one of my favorite rooms in the Manor.  Furnished with a large sandstone fireplace (1 of 23 in the home), mounted animal heads (see the 6-foot antler span of the American elk), oversized furniture and extravagant tapestries.

Stan Hywet Manor House was not only the residence of the Seiberlings but a central meeting place of distinguished political figures and decision makers.  The Dining Room hosted a variety of attendees who were active in business as well as the arts.

The Butler’s Pantry was one of the most important rooms of the estate as it was where all of the dining activities took place.  From polishing silver to coordinating the dinner parties, the butler would have certainly spent quite some time here.

Next to the pantry was the Kitchen. For its time, it was exceptional with a state of the art cooking range, refrigerators, steam table and chopping block.  Updated with the latest technology, the kitchen also had a call board, a telephone extension and intercom.

The Breakfast Room, down the hall from the kitchen, was used for informal meals with the family.

I was amazed at the mention of a Flower Arranging Room.  Used for the purpose of creating beautiful fresh and dried flower arrangements, this room in the house is where volunteers create floral masterpieces that are on display throughout the Manor.

Somehow I found myself passing a large painting of F. A. Seiberling and a beautiful stained glass window then entering the Billiard Room.  Reserved for the men of the house and their guests, the space showcases a fireplace, refrigerator for cold beverages and a humidor for fresh cigars.

Down the hall from the Billiard Room was F. A. Seiberling’s office.  It was said that he had a phone that connected directly to the GoodYear company.  There was also a side door entrance to allow for guests who were meeting him to conduct business.

The indoor swimming pool was only one amenity that focused on the family’s consideration for health and fitness.  They also had an indoor gym, as well as a mini-golf course, tennis courts, walking and riding trails.

I had completed the first floor of my tour throughout the Stan Hywet Hall.  So many exciting stops to my tour as I thought about how advanced technology had developed in the early 1900s and most certainly even in the early 21st century.  I was looking forward to exploring the living spaces of the Seiberling family as I climbed the stairs to the second story.

Have you visited Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens?  What tours did you take?  What was your favorite memory of your visit?  I would love to hear about your time at this fantastic historical home if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Many thanks for reading about my adventure to Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens and don’t forget to check out more photos of my visit after the information section. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
714 N. Portage Path
Akron, OH 44303
Telephone:  330 836 5533

    • Admission Fee:  Non-Members – Adults 18 and over are $15; Non-Member Youth (6 – 17): $6 and Stan Hywet Members are free.  Visit their website for membership prices.
    • Hours:  Estate Hours: April – November/Tuesday – Sunday 10 AM to 6PM  last admission at 4:30;  Closed on Mondays; Please check the website as they are closed during the winter season after the Deck the Hall festivities.
    • Length of Visit:  2 – 3 hours
    • Tips for your Visit: Do not lean, sit on or touch collection items or the interior of the historic house museum as it is more fragile than it appears.  Food, gum, beverages and drinks are prohibited throughout the house.  Begin in the English Gardens as there will be a wedding that will be taking place at 1PM. Manor house hosts are stationed throughout the hotel to assist visitors with their tour.  Stan Hywet welcomes motor coach travelers and other groups and an advanced reservation is required by calling  Group Sales: 330 315 3284.  Visit Stan Hywet’s website for December Hours and Deck the Halls Exhibit;  Restrooms are located in the Corbin Conservatory and the lower level of the Manor House. Backpacks are not permitted in the Manor House but may be stored in the Powder Room.
    • Photography is permitted in the Manor House, however, no flash or professional photo equipment or videography permitted; Photos only with cellphone or handheld cameras only.  No photography permitted on guided tours but is encouraged on the grounds and in the Corbin Conservatory; Must have a photography membership to use monopods and tripods in the gardens, unless it is part of a pre approved commercial photography session; Selfie sticks not permitted;  No private photography is authorized for commercial reproduction.
    • Guided tours of the Manor House are offered on the hour between 11 am and 4 pm. Guests who prefer a more leisurely experience may choose a self guided tour of the Estate buildings, gardens and grounds, available anytime between 11 am and 4:30 PM.  Experience one of their specialty tours:
      • Blueprints to Bricks (noon, daily, May 1 – September 30) highlights Stan Hywet from conception to creation
      •  Nooks and Crannies tour (3 times daily) is a  behind the scenes experience
      • Grand Estate Tour (noon, daily) provides information on the Estate’s historical landscape elements.

Where to Stay:

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson
1420 Main Street
Cuyahoga Falls, OH  44221
Telephone:  330 926 1233
Website:  https://www.radissonhotelsamericas.com/en-us/hotels/country-inn-cuyahoga-falls-oh?cid=a:se+b:gmb+c:amer+i:local+e:cis+d:us+h:OHCUYAHO

Where to Eat: 

Molly’s Café & Shop is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm at Stan Hywet

The Blue Door Cafe and Bakery
1970 State Road
Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Telephone:  330 926 9774

My favorite menu item is their Chicken & Waffles:   jalapeno & cheddar buttermilk waffle, buttermilk & pepper brined southern style green circle, free range chicken, bourbon organic maple syrup, whiskey butter, house made hot sauce, organic blackberries

What to Read:

  • The Seiberling Family, by Julie Frey
  • The Gate Lodge, by Julie Frey

Reflecting Back Over 2018 Travel and Blog Posts

What a great year for travel!  From conquering France to exploring the Wild West of the United States, it was a wonderful year of exploring 2 continents and 5 countries. There were past memories of travels gone by as well as discovering amazing sites in my own back yard! Here are some of my favorite photos from this years’ travel blogs and the amazing journeys I experienced in 2018!

Asia

Philippines

Naomi’s Heart Mission in the Philippines:  A Day of Travel 

Flying Into Hong Kong Before Reaching the Philippines

Caribbean

A Port Day in Dominica

The View of the Cruise Ship in Dominica

Puerto Rico

Walking Tour of San Juan:  Part 1

The Raices Fountain in Old San Juan, Puerto Rico

Walking Tour of San Juan:  Part 2

The Cementerio de San Juan

Raices Restaurant

Authentic Puerto Rican Costumes at Raices Restaurant

Sunny San Juan

My First Mofongo Experience

Europe

Italy:  Rome:  St Peter’s Facade

St. Peter and the Keys

Monaco:  A City of Wealth

The Wealth of Monaco

Monaco: The Port of Monaco

Strolling the Port of Monaco

Spain:  Barcelona and Its Architecture

La Sagrada Familia

Middle East

Israel

Bethlehem:  Shepherd’s Field

The Chapel of the Angels

Bethlehem:  The Church of the Nativity

The Altar of the Nativity

Turkey:  The Topkapi Palace

The Topkapi Palace

United States

United States:  California

Joshua Tree National Park

The Joshua Tree

La Jolla Cove, California

+120312 La Jolla Cove Beach

Beautiful La Jolla Cove, California

+120312 Seals on the South End of La Jolla Cove

Seals at La Jolla Cove, California

A Day in Morro Bay

Visiting the Rock at Morro Bay

A Weekend in San Diego

The Coronado Hotel 

United States:  Connecticut

East Haddam

United States:  Georgia

Savannah

Strolling Through Savannah

United States: Maine

Acadia, Whale Watching and Visiting the Doubling Point Lighthouse

Acadia National Park

Enjoying the Coast of Maine in Rockland

Kayaking Near Owl Head Lighthouse, Maine

United States:  Massachusetts

Salem

Touring the House of the Seven Gables

United States:  Michigan

Oswald’s Bear Farm

Feeding a Baby Bear at Oswald’s Bear Farm

United States:  Nevada

Harrah’s, Las Vegas

008 Harrah's Hillbillies

Slot Winners at Harrah’s

Las Vegas

001 Las Vegas Airport

Welcome to Las Vegas!

United States:  New York

An Afternoon at Niagara Falls

The Gorgeous Falls on the US Side

United States:  Ohio

Cincinnati:  The Blind Lemon

The Patio in Winter

Cincinnati:  Krohn Conservatory

Exploring Krohn Conservatory

Columbus:  Inniswood Hike

Strolling through Inniswood Metro Park during Winter

Columbus: Zoo Lights

Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo

 

Ohio Festivals:

The Banana Split Festival

Making our own Banana Splits at the Banana Split Festival

Medieval Life at the Renaissance Festival

Exploring the Ohio Renaissance Festival

United States:  Ohio Wineries

A.R. Winery

Buckeye Lake Winery

Gervasi Vineyard

Entering Gervasi Vineyard in Canton, Ohio

Charcuterie Plate at Gervasi Vineyard

Henke Winery and Restaurant

Hundley Cellars

Lakehouse Inn and Winery

Moyer Vineyard Winery & Restaurant

Vinoklet Winery

Winery at Versailles

Yellow Butterfly Winery

United States:  Rhode Island

Cliff Walk

A Furry Friend on Cliff Walk

United States:  South Dakota

Deadwood

Mount Rushmore

DSC_0184

Visiting Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

United States:  Wyoming

Wyoming, Cody

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Beautiful Landscape from Cody, Wyoming

It is amazing how much ground one can cover in a year!   This year will be another amazing travel year!  Where did you go in 2018?  Do you have any plans for this year?  I would love to hear from you! Leave a message in the comments section!   Happy Travels!

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Making Wine at Grape & Granary for Ohio Wine Month

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.