Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee

28 April 20243 May 2025

Ranked as one of Knoxville, Tennessee’s top attractions, I was looking forward to checking out Ijams Nature Center for the morning before traveling down to Gatlinburg for the week. Having visited the website, I noticed the museum had won several awards and was ranked as a top destination. I wanted to hike the River Trail along the Tennessee River for its scenic views and bird watching and then stroll through the nature center to learn more about the surrounding area.

The exhibits were extremely informative and centered around the ecology of the Tennessee River. I learned that the river was home to over 230 species of fish, 100 types of mussels and the Cherokee Indians before the British began to build settlements here in the 1700s.

Stuffed taxidermy animals were strategically placed throughout the wildlife displays of trees and small ponds. Shallow pools held turtles and local fish which can be found within the river.

I was most impressed with the life-like paintings of Dr. Earl O. Henry, dating back to the late 1940s. Dr. Henry began his interest in birds when he was a young boy, imitating their songs. He was an active member of the Tennessee Ornithological Society that was founded by H.P. Ijams for whom the center is named. After graduating from the University of Tennessee, Dr. Henry returned to Knoxville and began to embrace his talent for painting the local birds.

Harry Pearl Ijams helped form the Knoxville Chapter of the Tennessee Ornithological Society. An enthusiastic outdoorsman, H.P., as he was known by friends, purchased 20 acres where he set up the Ijams Bird Sanctuary to monitor the various species and study their habits. H.P. would later be regarded as the “Father of Knoxville Ornithology”.

It was a wonderful experience visiting the Ijams Nature Center, learning about the Knoxville wildlife and the men and women who were instrumental in protecting them.

Have you visited the Ijams Nature Center in Knoxville, Tennessee? What were your thoughts? I would be interested in hearing about your time spent at the exhibit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my time spent at Ijams and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Ijam’s Nature Center
2915 Island Home Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37920
Telephone: 865 577 4717

Where to Stay:

Four Points Sheraton Knoxville Cumberland House
1109 White Avenue
Knoxville, TN 37916
Telephone: 865 971 4663

Where to Eat:

Babalu
412 S. Gay Street
Knoxville, TN 37902
Telephone: 865 329 1002

What to Eat in Knoxville:

Brunch at Bistro on the Bayou
Chicken pot pie
Fried Green Tomatoes
Mac and Cheese
Meatloaf
Tennessee Whiskey

What to Read:

Historic Knoxville: The Curious Visitor’s Guide to Its Stories and Places, by Jack Neely

Photo Guide to Knoxville:

Bike Sculpture
Bridge Sunrise
CityView Sunset from SoKno
Fort Dickerson Quarry
Gay Street
Greetings from Knoxville Postcard Mural
House Mountain
Sunsphere
Tennessee Theater on the corner of Gay Street and Clinch Avenue
A View from the Bluffs

Inside Ijams Nature Center

Ijams Nature Center

Making Friends with the Early Ohio Settlers at Sauder Village, Part 2

31 October 202314 May 2025

I spent the morning visiting the historical buildings located on the Village Green and those in the outer perimeter. The structures built in the early 20th century include the 1920’s Grime Homestead, Building 19 on the Complex Map. This has been such a fabulous, educational experience learning about the history of each of the buildings as well as exploring the items that are inside relating to the type of building, shop or museum. I hope you have had the opportunity to read Part 1 of my Sauder Village blog to put this amazing complex in perspective and to understand Sauder Village’s beginnings.

Celebrating forty years as Ohio’s Largest Living History Destination, the Village is an amazing replica of a small town dating between the years 1803 to the 1920s. From the Natives and Newcomers Exhibit to the Pioneer Settlement there are close to forty buildings that will give you a glimpse of a time in US history with abundant growth and change.

The 1920s Grime Homestead looks practically like any other farm house that one would see in Ohio. A beautiful representation of our country’s “Modern Era”, this home is very similar to those we would see today without many of the technological advancements.

Friendly costumed guides are staged throughout the structures, replicating the activities of daily life at this time. Inventions, such as the gas range reduced the amount of time to prepare family meals. Our guide explained the process of gathering the ingredients of the meal using items the farm such as flour and eggs. Using the appliances and kitchen gadgets from that era, she explained the steps to ready her meal and offered samples of the pie she had prepared in advance.

The dining room, located off of the kitchen also served as a casual family room. Furniture included a table and chairs, a couch, phonograph and radio as well as wall decorations. Unlike the prevous rooms, this floor was carpeted. I learned that carpeting symbolized the wealth of a family, able to afford some of the nicer things in life and were considered well-off financially.

Entering the parlor, I was immediately drawn to the upright player piano reminiscent of the one I had as a child. This space in the house was set aside for entertaining guests and housed the more delicate possessions of the family, such as expensive furniture and family heirlooms.

The master bedroom, typical of one that you would find in the 1920s, was simple yet functional. The women loved vanities and dressing tables with benches. During this era, it was not uncommon to find furniture made out of veneer to help reduce the cost.

Downstairs, the large cellar served as a pantry and cooler for storing meat and milk. Because grocery stores were not as readily accessible in the 1920s, the lady of the house would can fruits and vegetables then place them on shelves until she was ready to use them.

The cellar also housed the laundry for cleaning of the clothes, hanging them out to dry and then ironing them on a regular basis.

Exiting the cellar into the outdoors was a garden, storage shed and outhouse. A garden’s size was based on the number of family members in the home as the produce was used to feed the family.

Before reaching the festival barn, I passed the garage that held the tractor. This was the first motorized vehicle on the property. I was so excited to see all of the farm animals and spent most of my time in this part of the village.

There are horses….

Cows….

Pigs…

Turkeys…

and chickens…but my favorite of all of the animals was…..

the baby lambs!

The Festival Barn is used strictly for entertainment purposes only holding special events, picnics and group lunches for visitors.

Over the bridge I arrived at Brush Creek Pottery where I found Mark Nafziger, the resident potter creating a bowl. With so many types of pottery on display, I browsed through the flower pots, vases, plates and decorative items exploring all of their designs and shapes.

Building 22 is a storage shed for employees only, but I can’t wait to visit the next building…the Ice Cream Parlor. A perfect time for a break, I ordered a single, hand-dipped ice cream in cookie dough on a sugar cone, super creamy and delicious.

Barbara’s Weaving Shop was closed, but on days that it is open, weavers use the barn’s frame loom to create beautiful items out of both threads and rags.

The water-powered grist mill at Sauder Village is one of the few that remain in the state of Ohio today. The process for producing corn meal is actually quite interesting. As the water is released from its source, it rushes over the wheel, turning the millstones inside to produce corn meal.

What fascinates me about this exhibit is that there are so many products that can be turned into flour or meal. An in-depth information sheet outlines how the mill works and the interactive display describes what is needed to ensure the mill runs smoothly.

I purchased a bag of fresh corn meal to compare the fresh meal with a box for making homemade cornbread.

About a minute walk from the Grist Mil is the Erie Express. I decided to board the 15 minute train ride along the north end of the park where I will see glimpses of the Natives and Newcomers as well as the Pioneer Settlement. The train ride costs $2 for the multiple rides throughout the day.

Once I disembarked the train and walked the short trip to the Natives and Newcomers exhibit. Covering the period between 1803 and 1839, I learn more about the pioneers who settled this region known as the Black Swamp area.

The Native American’s housing is surprisingly different than the teepee structures that I have seen in reading materials and during some of my travels out west. It seems so large and more rectangular in shape.

The wigwam was much larger than I had anticipated, but it was used to house two families here. In the center there was a partition that separatee each family, providing a little privacy.

During the time that these structures were built, the settlers and the natives were already developing a trading relationship in places that were called trading posts.

One of the more important items that settlers needed during the cold weather were animal pelts. Other items important for trade included pottery, guns, tobacco, whiskey and other items that were of interest to the trading parties.

From here, the walking path leads to the Pioneer Settlement that covers the years 1834 – 1890 when the Lauber family first arrived to this area. I am looking forward to reading more about the early settlers of the Black Swamp and to explore more of the personal lives of the residents of Fulton County. This part of my tour will be covered in Part 3 of my blog.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Sauder Village? What was your favorite sight or activity while you were here? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks for reading about my visit to Sauder Village and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Sauder Village Living History and Farm
221611 OH-2
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 419 446 2541

Admission Fee: Adults: $24; Students, Ages 4 – 16: $18; Children, Ages 3 and under: Free; Seniors 60 and over: $22. person is permitted. 2-day Admission: Adults, $38; Students, Ages 4 – 16: $26; Valid for 2 consecutive days, non-transferable. AAA Discount: $2
Hours: Spring (May 3 – 27): Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 3:30PM; Saturday 10AM to 4PM; Summer (May 31 – September 2): Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 5PM and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Fall Hours (September 6 – October 8); Open Wednesday to Friday from 10AM to 3:30PM and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
Length of the Tour: From 2 hours to 2 days.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes as you walk through time visiting historical buildings. Download the map ahead of time and plan your day. There are several classes and demonstrations that you won’t want to miss. While there are several small shops to visit, make plans to eat at the Barn Restaurant for down-home cooking.

Where to Stay:

Sauder Heritage Inn
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 800 590 9755

If you are traveling by RV, make reservations at the Sauder Village Campground.

Where to Eat:

The Barn Restaurant
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 800 590 9755

Select the buffet or order from the menu loaded with down-home recipes.

What to Eat:

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Soups and Salads
Fried Chicken
Roat Beef Dinners

What to Read:

Heritage of the Black Swamp, by Cynthia Covert Harger

Photo Guide to Sauder Village

Visit Sauder Village in the spring for newborn baby animals

Making Friends with the Early Ohio Settlers at Sauder Village, Part 1

24 October 20233 May 2025

Celebrating forty years as Ohio’s Largest Living History Destination, Sauder Village is an amazing replica of a small town dating between 1803 to the 1920s. From the Natives and Newcomers Exhibit to the Pioneer Settlement, there are close to forty buildings that will transport you back to a simple life on the prairie.

Arriving in Archbold, the Welcome Center was my first stop to purchase my ticket and pick up a map to plan out my day. This expansive center includes a café, gift shop, restrooms and the Greenburg Gallery.

Crossing the threshold, I was immediately transported into another place and time. There were several shops, exhibits and eateries on the Village Green. Surrounded by a small community of historical homes, I began my self-guided tour at Erie’s Farm Shop, “where it all began.”

Erie Sauder felt it was important that people would have a place to visit where they could learn about pioneer life and experience it for themselves. It was his vision that led to the development of Sauder Village.

Since 1976, thousands of visitors have explored this living museum where costumed volunteers reenact the pioneer days and local artisans preserve their amazing craft. Keeping history alive at Sauder Village is a great way to appreciate the challenges and hard work of those who first settled this area.

Erie’s Farm Shop, where 16-year old Erie Sauder began his woodworking company, displays some of his original tools and replicas.

Each building is clearly numbered and guides in period costumes are available to answer any questions.

Sauder’s Cabinet Shop contained more woodworking tools. Having once owned a Sauder bookcase, I was interested in learning about his craft. I learned that Sauder had expanded their products to include church pews in the 1930s.

The Basket Shop was located next door to the cabinet shop where I watched creative craftsmen assemble baskets of all shapes and sizes. The final products were available for purchase in their store.

Exiting the Basket Shop I arrived at the Roth Barbershop which was set up as it would have been in the early 20^th century. Children giggled as they sat in the barber’s chair begging for a hair cut. Playfully, the attendant declined their wish but set out to explain all of the interesting barber’s tools used for a cut and a shave. While she had their attention, she told us that the men were not permitted to sit in the barber’s chair while chewing their snuff. They had to put it on a shelf were it would stay until the barber services were completed and then they could pick it up and put it back in their lip. The children asked so many questions and it was fun to see them so engaged.

One of the most fascinating stops o my tour was the Tinsmith’s Shop. I was amazed by all of the products that were created here. From candle holders to chandeliers, the extensive collection included a fabulous selection of household items as well as tools and decorative pieces.

At the Black Swamp Cooperage, I learned that the local craftsman who made the barrels and buckets was called the Cooper. There is a beautiful display of these items that have been handcrafted by experienced woodworkers that one can purchase from the workshop. I love the contrast and design of the wood on these buckets and barrels and was hoping to find a cutting board.

At Anna’s Spinning Shop, a spinner showed our group how to make yarn. Using various types of wools, she explained how first, the wool must be combed and washed before the spinning process could begin. She also told us that the craftsman could control the size of each strand by how tight he pulled the wool as the wheel spun the fibers into string. Children as young as 3 years old would help in the process of making yarn and it was usually their job to comb the wool. From the start of creating the yarn to the knitting of a sweater, the process could take anywhere from six to twelve months.

Stepping into the herb shop, my eyes were immediately drawn to the ceiling where bundles of herbs hung from the rafters. Herbs were not only used for cooking, but for other medicinal purposes, decorating needs and to freshen their homes. It smelled fantastic as I steeped inside to look over the herbs and spices they offered for sale.

Feeling a bit underdressed entering St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, I was greeted with a smile by the organist. She was eager to play a song on the organ. Once a local German Lutheran church, it was once a place of worship for Black Swamp families in the 1900s. Equipped with church pews, a pulpit and an authentic pipe organ, the acoustics were perfect for a rendition of Amazing Grace on the 100 year pump organ.

I explored the sites surrounding the Village Green and looking back into the circle, I realized how much I had learned about the first settlers that arrived in Fulton County. Next stop, the Elmira Depot.

The Elmira Depot was an original train stop along the Wabash Railway just a couple of miles from Archbold. Passengers could ride the Wabash Cannonball on the Detroit – St. Louis route starting in 1949. The depot was in use until It was brought to Sauder Village in 1968 and this is definitely one of the highlights of the park.

Inside, kids had a blast weighing themselves on the scale used to weigh goods transported by train.

I entered through the door opposite of the scales into the administrative office. Passengers could purchase their tickets while assistants sent telegraphs and carried out secretarial tasks.

My favorite part of the depot was the Baggage Room where objects that were transported on the railways were on display. Shipping routes were published on a large map while a placard displayed the American Morse Code. I watched a group of children try their hand at sending a telegraph using the morse code chart above the machine. Most of them opted to tap out their names and were having a great time pretending to send messages from one station to the next.

Just a few feet away I explored Dr. McGuffin’s Office. I was reminded of how far we’ve come from the medical care that was available back in the late 1800s. Sometimes the doctor would not only have to help the local people who were sick, he may have also had to act as the local dentist by pulling a tooth or make house calls to tend to an injured horse. He had a very important job within the community and was a well-respected figure.

I was impressed with the medical instruments encased in cabinets and the medicines and herbal remedies that were sitting on the shelf. The doctor was also in charge of prescribing medication which would have been kept on the premises. From his office, he could administer the treatment or make house calls.

The next building on my Sauder Village map is the District 16 Schoolhouse which was an original one-room school house where children attended school. The teacher played an important role, not only in the teaching of the children, but attending to additional duties. Some of these responsibilities included chopping firewood for the stove or ensuring that there was plenty of water in the bucket from which the children would drink throughout the day. Children that attended rural schools were only required to complete an 8^th grade education and the ages of the school children could range from ages 6 years to 21.

With so many levels of education coming together in one room, it must have been a challenge for the teacher not to mention giving each student the attention they deserved.

I was nearly halfway through the list of historical buildings when I happened upon the Stella Leona Chocolates & Coffee shop. It was a welcome sight to enjoy a café mocha and the milk chocolate shavings. I was tempted to try one of their delicious chocolates, but decided to wait until after lunch. With a little energy boost, I was ready to tackle the remaining sites.

For those that love to quilt, the Threads of Tradition Quilt Shop should be on the top of your list. I was able to find out anything and everything I have ever wanted to know about quilting. There are over 3500 bolts of fabric, patterns, instructional books, gifts and hand quilting demonstrations….every quilter’s dream.

Not far from the Quilt Shop is Lauder’s General Store. This place is a museum in itself with so many products that were popular in the 19^th and 20^th centuries as well as those items that even interest kids today. I took a walk down memory lane checking out past toys that I remembered as a child. In some ways it reminded me of the mercantile in Little House on the Prairie but with a focus more on toys, dolls, and its candy collection. I could have easily spent hours in this store.

I quickly passed by the The W.O. Taylor Printing Office on my way to visit Burlington Glass Works. The building was closed for the day, but it was once the newspaper office of Archbold in the early 20^th century. It would have been fun to see the printing presses and possibly some historical newspapers.

I overheard that the glass maker, Mark Matthews had just fired up his oven and was preparing to create one of his internationally acclaimed glass products. When I arrived, the glass was heating up so I decided to stay. Within minutes he began to manipulate the glass that would later be used to create some of his fascinating, colorful marbles.

I was surprised at the length of the process, so I did not to see the final masterpiece, but I am sure it was spectacular. Inside of his studio, he displayed many of his works which were available for sale.

My last stop before heading out towards the perimeter of the village was the Broom Shop.

It was entertaining and educational to watch the talented broom maker create a decorative broom. There was a large selection of brooms for sale and it took some time for me to made a selection. I have often heard that handmade brooms work amazingly well when sweeping floors and was happy to have purchased one.

Exiting the ship, I realized I was close to the parking lot, so I took my new broom to the car and would start my tour again at the 1920s Grime Homestead. I couldn’t wait to explore the rest of this amazing village.

Please note that this is Part 1 of my visit due to the extent of the amazing opportunities to learn about the historical sites. Check out Part 2 and Part 3 to read about the second half of my exploration of Sauder Village.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Sauder Village? What was your favorite place to visit or activity while you were here? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Sauder Village Living History and Farm
221611 OH-2
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 419 446 2541

Admission Fee: Adults: $24; Students, Ages 4 – 16: $18; Children, Ages 3 and under: Free; Seniors 60 and over: $22. person is permitted. 2-day Admission: Adults, $38; Students, Ages 4 – 16: $26; Valid for 2 consecutive days, non-transferable. AAA Discount: $2
Hours: Spring (May 3 – 27): Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 3:30PM; Saturday 10AM to 4PM; Summer (May 31 – September 2): Open Wednesday to Saturday from 10AM to 5PM and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Fall Hours (September 6 – October 8); Open Wednesday to Friday from 10AM to 3:30PM and Closed Sunday, Monday and Tuesday.
Length of the Tour: From 2 hours to 2 days.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes as you walk through time visiting historical buildings. Download the map ahead of time and plan your day. There are several classes and demonstrations that you won’t want to miss. While there are several small shops to visit, make plans to eat at the Barn Restaurant for down-home cooking.

Where to Stay:

Sauder Heritage Inn
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 800 590 9755

If you are traveling by RV, make reservations at the Sauder Village Campground.

Where to Eat:

The Barn Restaurant
22611 State Route 2
PO Box 235
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 800 590 9755

Select the buffet or order from the menu loaded with down-home recipes.

What to Eat:

Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes
Soups and Salads
Fried Chicken
Roast Beef Dinners

What to Read:

Heritage of the Black Swamp, by Cynthia Covert Harger

Photo Guide to Sauder Village

Visit Sauder Village in the spring for newborn baby animals

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

Carrying On Family Traditions at Young’s Jersey Dairy in Yellow Springs

15 July 20223 May 2025

I have been visiting Young’s Dairy in Yellow Springs, Ohio as a child as far as I can remember. It was always a special day when we would hop into the car and take a ride for some ice cream and to see the animals on the farm. The tradition continues for the 1.4 million visitors making their own fond memories of visiting Young’s Dairy and the little red barn that started it all.

The story begins in 1869 when the red barn was built on the track of land that once belonged to the relatives of the Young Family. After the second World War, Hap Young farmed the land raising both hogs and cows. By 1958, they were selling milk to local residents and in a couple of years they were serving homemade ice cream.

In 1960, they opened their first dairy store. Over the years the dairy has expanded to include a bakery and a restaurant.

What I love about Young’s Dairy is their focus on families making memories and having fun during their visit. Starting in 1993, a miniature golf course was added, followed by a driving range in 1995 and finally the batting cages just a year later.

Additional children’s activities were added for the smaller kids with the most recent addition including the Cowvin’s Kiddie Corral.

Open all year around, fall is one of the best times for family fun at Young’s. There is a corn maze, wagon rides and a pumpkin patch where visitors can select their own pumpkin. And of course, there is springtime, where the new addition of kids (baby goats) and calves are an exciting sight to see.

One could spend a full day with all of the activities, food and sights to be explored at Young’s Dairy. Take time to visit the petting zoo to see the dairy cows and goats. And while you are enjoying a fun-packed day, don’t forget to save room for some ice cream.

Have you made memories at Young’s Jersey Dairy? What are some of your favorites? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my blog!

What to See and What to Do:

Young’s Jersey Dairy
6880 Springfield-Xenia Road
Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
Telephone: 937 325 0629

Admission Fee: There are additional fees for the kids’ activities, so check the website for the most up-to-date rates.
Hours: The restaurants and activities are open at various times of the day, so refer to the website for the current hours of operation.
Amenities: The Dairy Store, The Golden Jersey Inn, Udders & Putters Miniature Golf, picnics, catering, batting cages, driving range, kiddie corral, birthday parties, food truck, petting area, various events
Length of Visit: Minimum of 1 hour depending on the activities
Tips for Your Visit: Check the website to confirm the hours and fees for the activities.

Where to Stay:

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

Where to Eat:

Young’s Jersey Dairy, The Golden Jersey Inn
6880 Springfield-Xenia Road
Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
Telephone: 937 325 0629

MaMa’s Homemade Chicken-n-Dumplin’s is my favorite item on the menu. Made with creamy chicken and dumplings, it is served over homemade lumpy mashed potatoes. During my visits to Young’s, I can’t pass up the opportunity to save room for ice cream and my favorite sundae is “The Buckeye”: Chocolate Peanut Butter and Peanut Butter Cup ice cream with peanut butter & hot fudge toppings, real whipped cream, Reese’s Pieces and a homemade Buckeye. So rich and extraordinary!

Bali Safari & Marine Park Photos

28 January 202222 September 2024

I enjoyed a fabulous morning at the Bali Zoo and my driver suggested that I also check out the Bali Safari Marine Park. The Safari Park is quite different from the zoo. The setting is similar to booking a safari experience where an open air tram transports visitors through nearly 100 acres of animals in their “natural” habitat.

Here is a photographic account of my experience at Bali’s Animal Safari Park.

Since I had arrived later in the afternoon, I did not want to miss the opportunity to take the tram , so I decided that this would be my starting point. There were tigers, lions, rhinos and all sorts of exotic animals along the open environment. We witnessed a beautiful Blackbuck Antelope, one of the fastest antelopes in the world.

I would have been sad to have missed the hippo, who just happened to appear out of nowhere from the waters below.

A giraffe was slowly making its way to meet up with a tower of giraffes close by

I could have reached out of the tram to touch the zebra. Look at the beautiful design of his coat! Did you know that their dark stripes are actually brown?

The rhinoceros could not have been more friendly. As we were passing by, he began walking towards the tram….or maybe he was ready to charge….

One of my favorite exhibits was that of the white tiger. Magnificent!

Across from the white tigers was a lion cub. We were also allowed to pet this beautiful animal and have our photo taken with him! Check out those paws!

A cheetah taking a nap in one of the trees

The white tiger after feeding time. We were separated only by a piece of glass and had a fabulous view!

Do you enjoy animal adventure, encounters and zoos? i would love to hear about your favorite experience, so leave a message below in the comments section! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Bali Safari & Marine Park
Jalan Bypass Prof. Dr. Ida Bagus Mantra Km.
19,8 Kec. Gianyar, Bali 80551, Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 950 000

Admission Fee: Rates range from 720,000 Rupiah (IDR) to 2,140,200 Rupiah (IDR) per person ($39 US to $145 US, at the time of my visit) depending on the number of activities purchased. The Bali Night Experience package is offered for visitors who want to tour the park after hours.
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 9PM.
Amenities: Safari Journey, Aquarium, Animal Show, Harimau Show, Elephant Show, Bali Agung Show, Waterpark, Afternoon Tea, Restaurants, Welcome Drink, Elephant Ride, Photo Pictures, Souvenirs
Scenic View: Spectacular opportunity to see local animals to Asia
Length of Time to Visit: More than 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Wear appropriate shoes for walking. Compared to other attractions in Bali, this may seem expensive to some. The park is about an hour and a half drive from Kuta.

Please make sure to check the website for hours and updated pricing.

Where to Stay:

Kuta Puri Bungalows
Jalan Pantai Kuta
Poppies Lane 1
Kuta, Bali 80361 Indonesia
Telephone: +62 361 751903

Where to Eat:

Tsavo Lion Restaurant
Bali Safari Marine Park

Tsavo Lion Restaurant: An African-themed restaurant at the park, the venue allows visitors to experience a close encounter with the lions in the park.

Uma Restaurant: Buffet style restaurant with a unique ethnic theme offering Asian and local specialties.

Antico Caffe del Teatro di Marcelo
Via del Teatro de Marcelo, 42 00186
Rome, Italy
Telephone: +39 06 678 5451

I ordered a margarita panini and it was fabulous! Check out their facebook page!

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for South Bali:

The Edge Hotel in Uluwatu, Bali is amazing for spectacular cliff views.
Rock Bar Bali is the perfect location to watch the sunset over Uluwatu
Ulu Cliff House is a beach club located in Uluwatu that provides incredible views of the coastline
OMNIA Bali’s infinity pool
Gili Trawangan Swings at Ombak Sunset
The Ayana Pool at Ayana Resort
Sea Circus in Seminyak for breakfast
La Brisa Bali located in Canggu is the popular location to watch the sunset
Tegenungan Waterfall in Ubud
Tegalalang Rice Fields for the gorgeous scenery and the Love Bali sign
Thomas Beach Uluwatu
Bingin Beach Uluwatu
Motel Mexicola for its colorful exterior
Bambu Indah Hotel in gorgeous Ubud
The Monkey Forest in Ubud
Hidden Hills Villas
Nusa Penida for the cliffside views
La Laguna Bali in Canggu
Mt. Batur for its sunrise (north Bali)
Crate Cafe at Canggu

Great Smoky Mountain National Park: Visitor Center

3 December 202022 September 2024

Did you know that the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is a World Heritage Site?

These beautiful mountains, known as the Great Smokies, are located in both North Carolina and Tennessee, a part of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and a segment of the Appalachians. This land, measuring nearly half a million acres, became a national park in 1940 and a UNESCO Heritage Site in 1983.

The national park’s Visitor Center provides an overview of life in the Great Smoky Mountains from its flora and fauna to the wild animals that make their home here. We decided to make a stop with my nephew, Nolan to learn more about the animals we may encounter during our visit.

The Red Fox resides in the Northern Hemisphere and is one of the largest of all foxes. Able to adapt in all environments, the red fox is usually found in pairs or in small families feasting on smaller rodents. They can survive at various elevations. The red fox has a white tip on its tail, a face that resembles a dog. and its legs may me darker than its coat.

The Grey Fox, although similar to the Red Fox, is usually grey in color and is specifically adapted to climb trees to escape predators. Rather than a white tip on their tail, they will have a black stripe down its tail, a strong neck and the face similar to a cat.

I have only seen a mink once in the wild near a wetlands trail. They are such an elusive creature, growing to be about 12 – 15 inches and weighing a little over 2 pounds. Their coats are brown and may have white markings on their chests and bellies. They travel independently and find their food near water. It is certainly an amazing feeling when you see one in the wild.

Bobcats are a rare sight throughout the Smokey Mountains as they are nocturnal and solitary in nature. Covered in spots, they have stubby tails and short ears and they only grow as long as three feet. The females give birth to up to six kittens during the winter.

Skunks are the animal that you can smell before you see them due their scent glands, used as a defensive weapon. Known for their black coat with white stripes, they are in abundance throughout the park while the lesser known skunk is black with white spots. Skunks give birth to a litter of four to seven babies, usually in the month of May.

While there are populations of wild hogs within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, they are not often spotted within the mountains. The female will usually have around six piglets in a litter and breed twice a year.

The Woodchuck, or Groundhog, is found in open fields, on the side of the road and streams where they find their food. They can measure up to 26 inches and weigh between five and 13 pounds. The females give birth to up to nine babies living up to six years in the wild.

There is an abundance of raccoons within the Great Smoky National Park. While they may make a rare appearance during the day, they are nocturnal and most active at night. A fully grown raccoon will live up to seven years old and weigh between eight to 14 pounds. Most raccoons live near streams to feed on crayfish and frogs.

Chipmunks are also another Smoky Mountains animal that are easily spotted throughout the park. On the ground collecting nuts or racing up trees to store them, Eating nuts, seeds and fruits, they can store their food in their cheek pouches that can reach the size of their bodies when full.

Several species of owls can be found within the Great Smokey National Park. From the medium-sized barn owl to the smaller great horned owl, they are a rare sighting as they are most active at night. They feed off of small rodent animals within the park and make their homes in the many trees throughout the park.

What animals did you see while visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park? Did you have a favorite one? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my amazing adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN 37738
Telephone: 865 436 1200

Where to Stay:

Firefly Chalet
Highway 321 North
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Website: www.vrbo.com

Where to Eat:

Bennett’s Bar-B-Que
2910 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN
Telephone: 865 429 2200

What to Eat:

Barbecue

PNC Festival of Lights, Cincinnati, OH

22 December 201919 September 2024

As the year comes to a close, the spirit of Christmas continues into the New Year with the PNC Festival of Lights. From November 19^th, 2016 to January 4^th, 2017, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden displays close to 2 million lights during the holiday season.

For over 30 years, the Cincinnati Zoo’s lights have grown to become the largest holiday display in the city. There are several themed areas created for the event that include Frozen Wonderland, the Gingerbread Village, the Candy Cane Forest as well as Fairyland.

We stopped by the Frozen Wonderland exhibit to see Elsa and the rest of Walt Disney’s Frozen Characters then on to Gingerbread Village. Here we took in the various themes of each home and searched for the hidden mouse.

We strolled through the Candy Cane Forest and ventured out to Fairyland to find the five hidden fairies.

Although the focus for most visitors was the holiday lights, there were a small number of animal exhibits that remained open. We were so excited to see the giraffes.

A favorite stop for many of the children (and adults alike) is to catch a glimpse of Santa’s reindeer.

We enjoyed the new Wild Lights show that took place on Swan Lake. as they flickered to the tunes of ET, Harry Potter and Rocky. We couldn’t take our eyes off of the beautifully decorated 21-foot tree with its multitude of lights, putting us in the Christmas spirit.

We experienced the Winter Wonders for the Madcap Puppet’s Black Light Show, watched carolers sing familiar holiday tunes and attempted the PNC Festival of Lights Scavenger Hunt.

With so many activities, we worked up an appetite and ordered a hot dog and chips. The Cincinnati Zoo has over ten eateries, including stalls with options that are only available during the Christmas season. At S’Mores N More, we purchased the prepackaged ingredients for s’mores and roasted our marshmallows over the open fire pit.

Each year, Santa stops by for a visit and his last day to take toy orders is December 23^rd. If you happen to miss him, you can drop off your wish list at the Holiday Post office or put in a good word with Mrs. Claus.

Visiting the Cincinnati Zoo’s Festival of Lights was a wonderful way for us to enjoy the holiday season. We agreed that it was such a great experience, we decided to make it a part of our family’s holiday tradition.

Have you visited the Cincinnati Zoo during the Festival of Lights? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to the Cincinnati Zoo and wishing you and your family a Happy Zoo Year!

What to See and What to Do:

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
3400 Vine Street
Cincinnati, OH 45220
Telephone: 513 281 4700

Admission Fee: Basic package: $18 per adult, $12 for children; Unlimited ride package: $25 per adult, $19 for children; Ultimate holiday adventure package includes unlimited rides as well as the Holiday Polar Bear Express 4-D experience for $27 per adult, $21 for children. By purchasing your tickets ahead of time online, you can save a couple of dollars per ticket.
Hours: For the PNC Festival of Lights, the zoo is open from 10AM to 9PM (Sundays through Thursdays) 10AM – 10PM on Friday and Saturday. Visit the zoo’s website for hours at other times throughout the year.
Amenities: Gift shop, café and eateries, special events, wheelchair and stroller rentals, wheelchair accessible, animal encounters and experiences, rides and theater and educational programs
Length of the Tour: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Check the zoo’s website for special events such as the Animal Encounters opportunities.

Where to Stay:

Graduate Cincinnati
151 Goodman Street
Cincinnati, OH 45219
Telephone: 513 487 3800

Where to Eat:

The Grove is the zoo’s food truck experience with four mobile options. Choose from Taco Caja, The Coop, Wild Burger and Sweet Retreat.
Base Camp Cafe
LaRosa’s Pizza
Tusker’s
The Outpost
Skyline Chili
Graeter’s Ice Cream
Dippin’ Dots
Savannah Soft Serve

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.

A Rainbow Tunnel of Lights

The Gingerbread House

Believe

Christmas Train

The Christmas Tree at Night

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Hueston Woods State Park in College Corner, Ohio

29 September 20191 January 2025

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to See and What to Do:

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

Where to Stay:

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

Where to Eat:

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

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

Summer’s End at Custer State Park: The Wildlife Drive

13 October 201817 September 2024

Dark clouds appeared overhead as a storm began to roll in at Custer State Park. Uncertain if the weather would put a damper on my afternoon, I continued on with my plans to explore the Wildlife Drive. Known for its amazing animal sightings, I was looking forward to seeing bison, burros or even a mountain goat.

Custer State Park is both a state park and wildlife reserve. Located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, it is named after Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer providing a home to many wild animals on its 71,000 acres. The park is most known for its large Bison population of 1500, its prairie dog towns and burros. Other animals residing in the park include elk, mule deer, white tailed deer, mountain goats, big horn sheep, pronghorn and mountain lions.

Here are some of the amazing sites I had the opportunity to see while exploring the Wildlife Drive at Custer State Park.

Fisherman Ponds

Views from the Lookout

Groundhog

American Bison

Prairie Dog Town

White-Tailed Deer

Wild Burro

Spectacular Landscape

Nearby attractions I was not able to visit included the Crazy Horse Memorial, Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park, but one day, I hope to make it here.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Custer State Park? Did you drive the Wildlife Loop Road? I would love to hear about your adventure if you kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many thanks for reading my post and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Custer State Park
13329 US Highway 16A
Custer, SD 57730
Telephone: 605 255 4515

Don’t miss the Wildlife Loop Drive for the opportunity to see the park’s wildlife up close in their natural habitat.

Admission Fee: Weekly Park License: $20 per vehicle, $10 per motorcycle, motorcoach license: $3 per person per visit.
Hours: Open daily, 24 hours; Visit the website for the hours of the Visitor’s Centers.
Amenities: Hiking, biking, bird watching, camping, canoeing/kayaking, fishing, cross country skiing, horseback riding, rock climbing, swimming, scenic drives; buffalo auction and buffalo roundup
Scenic View: The Wildlife Drive provides opportunities to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitat.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Drive slowly through the Wildlife Loop and be cautious of animals crossing the road. Take the drive early in the morning in the late afternoon for best viewing opportunities. Do not feed the animals and maintain a safe space between yourself and the animals.

Where to Stay:

Custer State Park Resort
The Blue Bell Lodge
Telephone for Reservations: 888 875 0001

While I spent the night at the Blue Bell Lodge, there are several other properties around the park to book as well.

Where to Eat:

Ruby House Restaurant
124 Winter Street
Keystone, SD 57751
Telephone: 605 666 4404

I wanted to visit a place with an Old West feel that served steak and I came to the right place! The Bourbon Ribeye was fantastic!

So many other options along Mt. Rushmore Road.

What to Eat:

Buffalo: A meat substitute for beef which is much healthier to eat.
Chokecherries are a Native American cherry that is made into jam, preserves, butter, wine, jelly and sauce. Wojapi is a chokecherry sauce.
Dakota Martini is made of three-fourths beer and one-fourth tomato juice
Fleisch Kuchele is a meat pie originating from Germans who lived in Russia. The dough is filled with meat and onions, then deep fried until the pastry is hot and flaky.
Hot Beef Commercial, also known as hot beef sandwich, beef combination, hot beef combo and hot beef combination. This is a sandwich made of real mashed potatoes and chunks of seasoned roast beef sandwiched between two pieces of white bread and smothered with homemade gravy until it floods the plate.
Indian Fry Bread is the state bread of South Dakota, a recipe of the local Indians.
Indian Tacos are made with a specially spiced beef and beans, cheese, lettuce, sour cream, tomatoes, onion, black olives and house made picante sauce on the top.
Kolache is an amazing Czech dessert made from pastry and filled with fruit filling such as apple, cherry, lemon, apricot, prune and strawberry.
Kuchen is German for cake and in South Dakota, visitors can enjoy this pastry filled with custard and fruit.
Lefse is a flat potato bread coming from Norwegian-American origin and served with butter
Mocha Cakes, also known as Blarney stones, are square or rectangular blocks of light and airy white cake. Frosted on all sides with vanilla buttercream, they are rolled in lightly salted crushed peanuts for ideal flavor and texture.
Pasties are savory hand pies.
Tiger Meat is South Dakota’s answer to steak tartare.
Wasna is a buffalo and berry dish passed down by the Lakota Indians.
Zebra Donuts are marbled chocolate and vanilla donuts that is fried, dunked in sweet glaze and hand-dipped in homemade chocolate frosting which feeds 15.

Photo Guide for Custer State Park, South Dakota:

Use a telephoto lens for capturing animals far away in the distance.
Explore the Wildlife Drive for opportunities to see wildlife
Take a Jeep Safari tour to gain closer to access to the amazing wildlife in the park
Take your photos at dawn and dusk for excellent time to see wildlife.

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Glacier Ridge Metro Park, Plain City, Ohio

15 December 201616 September 2024

A couple of months ago, I decided to take afternoon walks after my busy days at work. A great way to wind down, I started searching local parks close by to get a little fresh air and some exercise. I happened to find Glacier Ridge Metro Park one afternoon after hiking through Battelle Darby Creek and decided to check it out. Located in rural Plain City, Ohio outside of Columbus, I found the Honda Wetland Education Area and shared the walking path with a young man and his German Shepherd.

Returning from the hike, I noticed the park’s office was closed, but it was swarming with a flock of swallows circling overhead. A nearby nest was on the rooftop where a mother bird guarded her nest.

Glacier Ridge is one of the newer parks in the Columbus Metro Parks center, opening with 1,000 acres in 2002. The park system took an interest in restoring Glacier Ridge to its natural habitat after it had been agricultural land for years.

Wildflowers flourish along the nearby stretch of land as fragile blooms push forward through the wild, grassy underbrush. As a result of the park’s conservation efforts, there are now several species of plants and animals, with a large population of birds.

The clouds started breaking up, so it was the perfect time to climb the observation tower. I reached the top for a beautiful view of the wetlands and surrounding area. From here I could see herons and geese and sound of bullfrogs in the distance. I waited long enough to enjoy the quiet sunset in hopes of seeing more wildlife.

I decided to return to Glacier Ridge during the winter, excited of what I may find in the snow. I once again strolled the Wetland Education Area and hiked the Ironweed Trail to explore the north end of the park.

Leaving the wetlands, I passed over a creek where the trail opened up into a large field. There was a clear view with little obstruction from trees and the water seemed to continue to ice over as the temperature continued to drop. Dedicated runners and hikers walking their dogs slipped past me while I took photos. Footprints quickly disappeared with the new fallen snow and the silence continued until another visitor appeared on the trail.

Crossing the bridge, I noticed a weathered barn that reminded me of a scene in an Amish painting. Glacier Ridge seems so different in the winter months, so naked and exposed compared to the spring when life begins to flourish with bugs, birds and wild beasts. The crunch of snow under my feet and the swishing of my ski pants are the only sounds I heard as I continued deeper into the park.

There were no signs of life, only snow covered shells of plants that once thrived in the spring and summer months. The thistles grew fat as the snow broadened their core, creating little snow monsters protecting the prairie. I enjoyed the feeling of the sting of cold on my face and the light touch of snow as it fell from the sky.

The hike would total 5.6 miles round trip, but it was worth the experience to see in the winter. Besides feeling a sense of accomplishment for completing the Ironwood Trail, I was also reminded that parks are not only for the summer, but can be a great way to exercise all year around.

Have you hiked Glacier Ridge Metro Park? When is your favorite time to visit? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my blog post about Glacier Ridge Metro Park! Happy Trails!

Make sure you visit Glacier Ridge during their interpretive programs, which cater to all families and individuals of all ages. There are four trails that range from .8 to five miles, cross-country skiing trails and trails for horseback riding. In addition to picnic areas, there is also a wind and solar learning center and disc golf course.

What to See and What to Do:

Glacier Ridge MetroPark
9801 Hyland Croy Avenue
Plain City, OH 43064
Telephone: 614 891 0700

Hours: The park is open daily from 6:30AM until dark
Length of Visit: 1 to 2 hours, or additional time depending on the activity
Scenic View: There is an observation tower for beautiful views of the surrounding area
Amenities: Trails, cross country skiing, hiking, horseback riding, disc golf course, wind and solar learning center, dog park, Honda wetland education area, observation tower, picnic shelter, restrooms, playground and
Tips for Your Visit: Ensure that you have visited the website to confirm the latest information about the park. Pick up the Metro Parks magazine, ParkScope, which is published on a quarterly basis.

Where to Stay:

Hilton Garden Inn Columbus/Dublin
500 Metro Place North
Dublin, OH 43017
Telephone: 614 766 9900

Where to Eat:

Matt the Miller’s Tavern
6725 Avery-Muirfield Drive
Dublin, OH 43016
Telephone: 614 799 9100

I started out with the Bavarian Bites, warm and soft pretzels served with roasted garlic sauce (my favorite) and sweet & tangy mustard sauce. For my main course, I chose the Miller Salad with the addition of sesame crusted Ahi Tuna. The restaurant has an extensive drink menu to include several types of bourbon.

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