The Ohio River Museum in Marietta, Ohio

29 August 202216 May 2025

Update: The Ohio River Museum is currently closed for renovation. Check the website for more information.

Stationed along the Ohio River in the town of Marietta is the Ohio River Museum. Located in southeast Ohio, Marietta was the state’s first permanent settlement dating 1787. Because of its location at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, this was site was once a bustling port for importing and exporting goods as well as passengers along its waterways. The Ohio River Museum highlights the importance of this river system and the transportation vessels that once occupied these waters.The first successful steamboat dates back to the late 1700s when John Fitch mastered the building of the vessel with its primary purpose to transport goods along the Delaware River. The Ohio River Museum displays a beautiful replica of the “Pioneer” which was a shipping vessel among the Great Lakes fleets dating back to 1901.

In the early 1800s, Marietta became a location where sea-faring vessels were built transporting goods to Cincinnati, New Orleans and New York. The first seafaring vessel, the St. Clair, was built in Marietta scheduled to arrive at the Gulf of Mexico. With its 60-foot masts, it was three times the size of previous riverboats. Imagine in 1801, most of the population of Cincinnati, waiting along its banks to watch the St. Clair float along the Ohio River.At the Point in Marietta, additional seaworthy vessels were being built to include the John Farnum schooner. This beautiful vessel is on display at the Ohio River Museum. The Historical Marietta blog provides the following information about this barque.

“She was two hundred and forty-nine and one half tons. Her keel was laid in the Spring of 1846 and she was launched in February 1847. She was towed at once to Portsmouth where she took on a cargo of Indian Corn. She was measured, inspected and cleared at Louisville, Ky. Her destination was ‘Cork or a Port.’

She arrived at Cork in May, 1847 during the great famine in Ireland and returned to Philadelphia in August and was sold to Potter, McKeever & Co. of that city. The Master builder was Capt. William Knox, of Harmar. Capt. A. B. Waters had charge of the vessel and cargo with Capt. George Hatch as Navigator. Capt. Hatch was afterwards Mayor of Cincinnati.”

The steamboat would eventually become a mode of transportation for passengers in the 1820s. Depending on the size of the vessel, the number of crew could range from 5 to 120.

Many of the ships would offer entertainment for its passengers to include Vaudeville acts, band performances and theater productions.

The captain’s main purpose was to ensure the safety of cargo and passengers onboard and monitor the financial success of each voyage. Safety devices such as posted placards, life jackets and life rings were readily available to passengers.

Additional positions included the clerk, who handled the exchange of money; the engineer who maintained the mechanical safety of the vessel and the pilot. The pilot was navigator who was responsible for guiding the ship along the waterway. Under the pilot (and captain) was the mate. There were also the roustabouts (laborers) and the cabin crew.

The pilot would communicate with the engineer by use of the Engine Room Signal Indicator.

The Guiding Star traveled between Cincinnati and New Orleans between 1878 to 1893 when it was destroyed by a fire on January 6.

The Delta Queen is quite possibly the most known of all of the steamboats as it continues to sail between Minneapolis to Pittsburgh today. She is the sister ship to the Delta King which is currently docked in Sacramento.

The Queen City was one of the grandest packet boats to work the river. Built in 1897 by the Cincinnati Marine Railway Company for the Cincinnati – Pittsburg route, she also sailed along the Chattahoochee, Kanawha, Mississippi, Monongahela and Ohio Rivers. According to the Ohio County Public Library, “The Queen City was designed for high class patronage at a time of affluence. Captain Ellison was influenced in his design by the Idlewild and he had made a study of Great Lakes steamers which he utilized. Her mahogany cabin was finished in gilt trim and the ceiling was of pressed metal sheets with ornate design. She had wire mesh railings studded with rosettes. She had a carved figurehead rising from her stem which she retained until she was rebuilt at Mound City, Illinois in 1920.”

“A metal Queen City emblem in gold appeared on each stateroom door. Her grand piano was presented by the Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce. She had oil paintings on the rounded cabin bulkheads. She had shining brass oil lamps in swinging brackets and overhead lights coming from twined oak leaves of metal. Queen City and her sister boat, Virginia, were advertised in Pittsburgh’s social register and brought in many fashionable Pittsburgh citizens. Queen City was christened by Harriet Henderson, daughter of Captain James A. Henderson, president of the P & C Line. She was launched on June 5, 1897; ran her trials through June 10th and departed for Pittsburgh June 19th. On her 1914 trip downbound, she sank on the Falls at Louisville on Feb. 17th. She continued on Mardi Gras trips in 1921, 1922, 1923, 1925 and 1930. After her ill-fated Mardi Gras trip in 1914, she was laid up in the Kanawha River at Pt. Pleasant, West Virginia until early summer 1916 when she returned to Louisville and ran excursions. She was moved to the foot of Liberty Street because of wharf improvements and sank there in January, 1940. Her wreckage was burned on February 17, 1940 (in Pittsburg).”

On display at the Ohio River Museum are several vessels which were used to transport goods and passengers along the Ohio River. In addition, there are several displays of items which would have been found in the kitchen and dining rooms as well as personal effects from the officers and crew.

Sailing down the Ohio or Mississippi River on a riverboat is such an historic journey, visiting the modest, less populated river towns would be the opportunity of a lifetime. While riverboat transportation was incredibly popular with the transport of goods and passengers, the mid 1800s changed everything. By this time, the railroads became the primary mode of transportation for passengers and goods, replacing the use of riverboats, for what seemed the end of riverboat travel. Today, passengers can board the Delta Queen with its robust itinerary and the opportunity to experience a riverboat cruise in the footsteps of Mark Twain.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Ohio River Museum? I would love to know about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to the Ohio River Museum and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Ohio River Museum

601 Front Street

Marietta, Ohio 45750

Telephone: 740 373 3717

Admission Fee: $7.00 to tour the museum and W.R. Snyder steam powered towboat.
Hours: Saturday from 9:30AM to 5PM, Sunday: 12PM to 5PM, closed Monday and Tuesday, Wednesday – Thursday: 10AM to 5PM; Please refer to the museum’s website to confirm hours of operation.
Amenities: waterpark, restaurants, group rates, handicap accessible, annual passes, discounts and promotions, attractions, live shows, rides, lego minilands, movies, gardens,
Length of Visit: Prepare to spend 1 – 2 hours, especially if you plan to tour the W.R. Snyder steam powered towboat.
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes. The visit to the W.R. Snyder steam powered towboat may require some agility to enter, be prepared.

Where to Stay:

Lafayette Hotel, a historical hotel

101 Front Street

Marietta, Ohio 45750

Telephone: 740 373-5522

Where to Eat:

Boathouse BBQ
218 Virginia Street
Marietta, OH 45750
Telephone: 740 373 3006

You have to try the Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese! Amazing!

What to Read:

A Guide to Historic Marietta Ohio, by Lynne Sturtevant

History and Hauntings at the Ohio State Reformatory, Mansfield

20 November 202122 September 2024

Traveling down the long drive approaching the Ohio State Reformatory, the gorgeous, stone facade seemed more like a castle than a former penitentiary. Designed by well-known Cleveland architect, Levi Schofield, the 23-acre prison was constructed in 1834 in the style of Victorian Gothic, Richardsonian Romanesque and Queen Anne architecture.

Following along the beautifully manicured garden, I soon entered the parking area at the East Cell Block Lot. Tour options for exploring the reformatory included a self-guided tour or an audio tour for an additional cost, both lasting a little over an hour. In addition to its history, I also learned that there were tours focused on the Reformatory’s paranormal activity.

Upon entering, visitors are first introduced to the Warden’s Quarters which are located on the second floor of the building. It was common at that time for the warden and his family to live on the grounds of the reformatory. Provided with separate living space apart from the prison, they conducted their normal everyday family activities while the warden was available to take care of any emergencies that may have occurred at the prison.

Arthur Glattke was the last warden to live on the premisess during the 1950s. Tragedy struck the family when Glattke’s wife, Helen was shot by a handgun which discharged as she was reaching for her jewelry box in the closet. She died of pneumonia three days later due to complications of the gunshot. Arthur continued his employment as Superintendent until 1959 when he suffered a fatal heart attack in his office.

Visitors have claimed to see the ghost of a woman in the family bedroom of the Warden’s quarter. Some have heard doors closing, furniture moving and even the piano playing. Others have heard audible voices including instances of a woman insisting “I’m not dead” or smelling the scents of perfume or cigar smoke.

Just around the corner is a replica of the electric chair. During the time the institution was open, the death penalty was carried out by electric shock until this method was deemed unconstitutional in 1972 by the US Supreme Court. Surprisingly, prisoners were not executed at this location but rather at the nearby Ohio Penitentiary in Lucasville.

William Hoss, a convicted murderer and rapist, was the first Ohioan to be executed by the electric chair when he was only 17 years old. Between the years of 1897 to 1963, there were 311 men and 3 women who would die by the chair in the state of Ohio.

The tour continued downstairs where a separate room was set apart for entertaining dignitaries in addition to the Mayor, Governor or other government officials. A small stage remains where vocal soloists or violinists would perform.

Visitors have also experienced paranormal activity here. Some have seen the ghost of a small boy playing hide and seek or standing on the stage, yet no child matching the description of this boy has died here. Sightings of a person’s shadow entering a nearby hallway have also been reported around this location.

Walking through a corridor, I arrived at a re-creation of the Shawshank Redemption movie set for Brooks’ boarding house room. Later in the movie, Red would also live in this very room once he had been released from prison.

According to the production crew of Ghost Hunters, a shadow darted into Brooks’ room at one point of their filming and levels of paranormal activity were recorded here.

A short walk from the movie set and I arrived at the Chapel, which is where religious worship services were conducted for the prisoners. Considered a low security area, appointed inmates could come and go into the prison’s church to perform their work duties, left alone by the chaplain. That was until 1962, when three inmates unsuccessfully tried to break out of the institution by tunneling out through the storage closet. They were sentenced to solitary confinement and additional time was added to their sentence.

The detection of ghostly activity includes shadows that enter the space from the cell blocks and the sight of a woman sitting on the chapel pew sighing, crying and sometimes laughing.

I followed signs for the tour leading out of the chapel into the inmate cells. A posted placard warns “Do not shut cell doors”. I was a little creeped out by the idea of locking myself in one of the cells, especially if it would have been during a paranormal event, but I am sure that some would find it thrilling.

I decided, against my better judgement, to go ahead and step into a cell block. I suppose it was based on curiosity, wondering what it would have been like to have spent time here. The atmosphere was dark and the condition of the cells added to the fear of being locked in. The framing was rusting away while the paint was peeling off of the steel. Exploring the cells and what was inside, I wondered who could have been incarcerated here. Was he young or old? What was his crime?

Looking down from the row of cells, I realized that I was standing on the platform of the sixth level. It seemed so far from the ground floor and my legs were beginning to feel a little weak as I felt a short fear of heights.

Blocked off from the tour, but within view, was a passageway known by the prison guards as the alley. The guards had the ability to enter this narrow lane where they could control the water supply to the prisoners’ cells and to eavesdrop on their conversations.

Two inmates were assigned to each cell which left them with not much space to move around. Furniture included a shared toilet, a sink and a small set of drawers for their belongings. These cramped quarters were insane. Hard to imagine anyone spending long periods of time in here.

In the 1970’s there was a federal lawsuit that stated that the number of inmates within the institution exceeded an amount deemed unconstitutional. It was at the height of the reformatory when over 2200 offenders were imprisoned here at one time. In 1983, conditions improved and there was a decision that the maximum number of prisoners would not reach amounts over 500 at a given time.

Sightings of paranormal activity have been recorded in the East Cell block. People have noted events where they can hear someone talking and snoring as well as feelings of being followed, watched and even touched.

I crossed the long corridor of cell blocks and down a couple of flights of stairs until I reached the 3^rd floor, east wing, which housed the prison hospital. It had the reputation of providing better medical care than most of the hospitals on the outside where top doctors provided surgical care, physician services, anesthesiology, dentistry as well as ear, nose and throat therapy. This area was later converted into a library once a new hospital was built in 1951.

Entering the shower room, I was surprised by the small shower heads that lined the interior. Nicknamed the car wash, prisoners would start from one end of the pipes walking their length instead of standing underneath as one would in a normal shower.

With so many inmates, there was no doubt that the reformatory would require a kitchen and additional cooking space. A granary, creamery, cannery, butcher shop and dining room were a part of the dining complex. Two waiters were assigned per table and talking was not permitted during meals. With an increase in population, the dining hall flowed outside referred to as “the yard”.

Solitary confinement was punishment for those prisoners who did not conform to the reformatory’s rules. When an inmate was sent to the “8 & 8”, he was required to stand for 8 hours in a closet sized room and then slept on the floor for the next 8. Spending time in solitary confinement was considered “dead time”, which meant that the time spent in seclusion did not count towards time served.

When measuring paranormal activity, unusual sounds were recorded in this area. People have also claimed that such strange events occurred where they were punched, smacked or had their hair pulled. Some visitors felt an overwhelming feeling of illness.

The mailroom was small with several boxes to collect mail. Inmates were permitted to receive mail, but not before it was scrutinized by the guards looking for contraband. During the war, prisoners were not able to access newspapers and relied on the guards to provide daily news of the outside. I imagine on the inside, it seemed like a completely different world with its own news and current events

Since its opening in 1896, it is amazing to think that in the 94 years the institution was in operation, 155,000 inmates passed through these doors. The idea of prison reform remains controversial, but we can all agree that the system has come a long way since the 19^th century with the improvement of current prison conditions.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Ohio State Reformatory? 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:

The Ohio State Reformatory
100 Reformatory Road
Mansfield, OH 44905
Telephone: 419 522 2644

Admission: Self-guided tours for adults (18 & up) are $12 while guided tours cost $17. Students (7 – 17), Seniors (age 60+) and College ID and Military are $10 for self-guided tours and $15 for guided tours. Children 6 and under are free and there is an additional $5 cost for the audio wand. NOTE: Cash only, but there is an ATM machine provided.
Hours: Winter Hours (February 2 to March 31) are from 11 AM to 4 PM, Friday, Saturday and Sunday only; Spring/Summer Hours (April 1 to September 2) are from 11 AM to 4 PM, daily; Holiday Tours (November 24 to December 17) are from 11 AM to 4PM, daily
Amenities: New for 2018, the reformatory will be open for abbreviated tours (September 4th – November 4th – Thursdays through Sunday only in October); self-guided tours; guided tours offered regularly between June and August on Saturdays and Sundays; Specialized guided tours include: History Meets Hollywood Tour, Beyond the Bars Tour, and the Inmate Tour led by Michael Humphrey who spent 14 months here in the late 1960s. This tour contains adult themes and is intended for mature audiences only. Please contact the Ohio State Reformatory to confirm when this tour is available.
Scenic View: There are several scenic views of the reformatory from the Warden’s Quarters and other locations throughout the prison.
Length of Visit: For the basic self-guided or guided tour, allow 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. Depending on the number of guided tours you purchase, you will require additional time.
Tips for Your Visit: Pay the additional fee for the audio tour which provides interesting information about the reformatory. Admission is cash only but there is an ATM machine provided. Wear proper shoes due to the condition of the metal stairs in the cell block. If you think you can handle it, visit during the overnight ghost tour.

Where to Stay:

Wishmaker House Bed and Breakfast
116 Main Street
Bellville, OH 44813
Telephone: 419 886 9463

Where to Eat:

Malabar Farm Restaurant
3645 Pleasant Valley Road
Lucas, OH 44864
Telephone: 419 938 5205

I started my meal with the mushroom soup which was creamy and full of flavor. As my main meal, I ordered the highly popular Reuben sandwich made of slow cooked brisket, kraut, marble rye, artisan Thousand Island and served with chips. Blog post coming soon!

Where to Drink:

The Vault Wine Bar
29 W. Main Street
Shelby, OH 44875
Telephone: 567 292 9081
The Suite Life of Travel Blog Post

I had already eaten a big lunch and decided to order the stuffed dates at The Vault which are stuffed with bleu cheese, wrapped in bacon, baked and then drizzled with balsamic reduction. I could have ordered two servings they were amazing!

What to Read:

Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, by Stephen King

The Floor Level of the Ohio State Reformatory

Staircase of the Ohio State Reformatory

The Cells of the Ohio State Reformatory

The Ohio State Reformatory, Mansfield

Inside the Ohio Reformatory in Mansfield

Exploring the cells of the reformatory

Travel Tips for Las Vegas

28 August 202122 September 2024

How can you maximize your time and money while visiting Las Vegas? With so many deals and discounts, I have provided a few suggestions.

If you decide to gamble (either a little, but definitely if a lot), pick up a “rewards” card from the service desk inside of the casino so that you can rack up credits, comps and receive future mailings with deals from the casinos. Some of the deals include free hotel stays, complimentary buffets and discounted entertainment. If you are gambling with a friend, spouse or significant other, put two cards under one name so the points will accumulate faster. So how does it work? When you find a slot machine, put the card in before inserting your money and points will be added to the card as you continue playing. Remember to remove the card when you have finished playing the machine. If you happen to forget to remove the card, the service desk within the hotel will gladly provide you with a replacement. One rewards card may be connected to a network of hotels (i.e., Mlife and Total Rewards) which is also beneficial for adding more points to your card, so keep this in mind when choosing a casino.
During your stay in Vegas you will be approached by numerous show/attraction representatives to book tickets through them. Check with your hotel’s comp desk/rewards desk where you may be able to secure a better rate for show tickets, etc.
If it is your first time to Las Vegas, you should really try to take in the free attractions that are offered by each of the hotels. There are floral displays, water fountain shows, museums and talking statues associated with the theme of a particular resort. For example, the Bellagio provides a spectacular water show while the Mirage’s volcano erupts at scheduled times throughout the evening.
Most people will tell you that your odds for winning at the slot machines are on Fremont Street. While this may ring true, we won nearly $500 playing Bier House at the Bellagio.
If you are not pressed for time, take the bus to Fremont Street instead of taking a taxi. You will save money and have unlimited use of the bus for a period of 24 hours for a small fee of $8 per person.
Traffic can be excessive, especially along the Las Vegas Strip, so unless it is absolutely necessary, don’t rent a car. There are plenty of alternative transportation options available.
We were surprised to learn that Harrah’s offered transportation to the airport. This service was extremely convenient and cost us the same amount as the Super Shuttle, $10.
Venetian for Breakfast. We heard that the $9.99 buffet was the best deal in town. So, when our flight arrived early in the morning, this was our first stop. Another great breakfast joint was Carlos n’ Charlie’s where we ordered the Charlie’s Breakfast Burrito with scrambled eggs, a special blend of chicken, carne asada and chorizo, Cheddar and Jack cheese and pico de gallo folded in a flour tortilla topped with red sauce and sour cream for only $12.99. We couldn’t resist the opportunity to eat outside.
When you visit Las Vegas, try to avoid the weekends. Hotel rates are much higher and the streets, casinos and events are crowded! We learned that many people visit from California because of its close proximity to Vegas.
Drinks are free when you are gambling. So this may not be new to you, but what you may not have known is that you can order top shelf liquor at no additional cost. Our friends ordered lemon-drop martinis made with limoncello and they were absolutely delicious.

So there you have it…a short list of how to make the most of your stay in Vegas. If you have any additional tips to add, just leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my experience for saving time, money and resources in Las Vegas and wishing you many Happy Travels!

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

The Nightlife in Key West

27 October 201919 September 2024

Key West was a stop on our cruise ship itinerary while working for the cruise lines. With a day off, we would stroll through Duval Street ending with our last few moments watching the sunset over Mallory Square. Unfortunately, the ship would leave before the nightlife began and I had always wondered if it was as fun as I had always imagined.

For a long weekend, I packed my bags with a couple of my favorite bar-hopping friends to check out the night scene, starting at the infamous Irish Kevin’s. With the motto, “I came, I drank, I don’t remember”, the southernmost Irish bar is a favorite among visitors to the Conch Republic.

Music was a big part of Kevin’s life as his father was an American Folk musician. His only dream was to entertain and today he is living his dream. Offering live music all day, there is a schedule of entertainers that perform, each with their unique talent. The place is packed by nightfall and well into the time the place closes each night. With fun singalongs and funny jokes, Irish Kevin’s keep Key West tourists entertained.

A visit to Key West wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Sloppy Joe’s and it is one of my favorite places, made famous by Ernest Hemingway. My go-to drink is the Sloppy Rita made of Tequila, Triple Sec, Orange Juice, Sour Mix, Soda and as squeeze of lime.

Sitting at the bar, I struck up a conversation with the bar tender and learned that the current location is not the original Sloppy Joe’s, so I headed over to Captain Tony’s for a drink and a little history lesson.

Captain Tony’s Saloon is one of the most historic bars in Key West as the first and original Sloppy Joe’s bar in the early 1930s. I pulled up Sean Connery’s chair at the bar and took a seat. Inside are license plates hanging from the ceiling and dollar bills pinned up throughout the walls. Interesting characters and celebrities have passed through these doors, not to mention the fascinating owner of this long-standing dive bar, Tony Tarracino.

First constructed in 1852, this location was once an ice house, a morgue, a cigar factory, a bordello and speakeasy before becoming the original Sloppy Joe’s, first opened by Josie Russell. In 1968, Captain Tony purchased the bar and by the early 1970’s, Jimmy Buffett would make his debut, writing and singing his popular island tunes.

The Hog’s Breath Saloon was a short walk to try their Key Lime Shooter. The bar was easy to find as we followed t-shirts with the famous slogan, “Hog’s Breath is Better than No Breath at All”. While the Original Hog’s Breath was first opened in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, owner Jerry Dorminy was looking for a sunnier location and headed to Key West as far south as one could go.

If I wasn’t paying attention, I would have easily passed by “The Smallest Bar in the US.” Measuring the size of a small jail cell, it is one of the busiest bars in Key West. We each ordered another Key Lime shot and decided to start our walk back to the hotel for the night. Walking southeast along Duval Street, I recognized the Bull and Whistle and since it was on our way, we wanted a view of Duval from the second story balcony.

The lower level bar is The Bull, the second floor is The Whistle, while the top floor is the Garden of Eden, an adults-only bar. From the second story, I could see that the night was slowing down and I wanted to take a photo of the Bull on Caroline Street (see the original bull from my second blog post, Key West, Florida – Looking Back on My First Visit in 1989, dated, January 19, 2014).

We had finally reached the Huron House and realized that we were more tired than we had thought. With a couple of days of vacation ahead, we agreed to more rest so that we could explore the next day.

Have you visited the bars on Key West on Duval Street? Do you have a favorite? I would love to hear about your visit to Key West if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Many thanks for reading about my full day in Key West and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Irish Kevin’s
211 Duval Street
Key West, FL 22040
Telephone: 305 292 1262

Sloppy Joe’s
201 Duval Street
Key West, FL 22040
Telephone: 305 294 5717

Captain Tony’s Saloon
428 Greene Street
Key West, FL 33040
Telephone: 305 294 1838

Hog’s Breath Saloon
400 Front Street
Key West, FL 33040
Telephone: 305 296 4222

The Smallest Bar Inn
124 Duval Street
Key West, FL 33040
Telephone: 305 240 0860

The Bull and Whistle
224 Duval Street
Key West, FL 33040
Telephone: 305 296 4545

Where to Stay:

Heron House
512 Simonton Street
Key West, FL 33040
Telephone: 305 294 9227

Where to Eat:

Sunset Tiki Bar – Located on the Marina
The Galleon Resort
617 Front Street
Key West, FL 33040
Phone: 305 295 0207

What to Eat:

Ceviche
Conch Fritters
Crab Cakes
Grouper
Lobster
Mahi Mahi
Shrimp

What to Read:

To Have and Have Not, by Ernest Hemingway
Key West, Tequila, a Pinch of Salt and a Quirky Slice of America, by Jon Breakfield
Gumbo Limbo, by Tom Corcoran
Florida Keys Volume 1: A History of the Pioneers, by John Viele

Photo Guide to Key West:

Casa Marina Key West
Charming Houses and Front Porches
Ernest Hemingway Museum
Fort Zachary Taylor
Hens and Roosters
Higgs Beach
The Kapok Tree
Key West Lighthouse
Key West Mural
La Concha Hotel
Marilyn Monroe at Tropic Cinema
Mile Marker 0
Mural at Waterfront Brewery
The Old Pier Behind Casa Marina
Rainbow Walkways at 801 Bourbon Bar
San Carlos Institute
Smathers Beach
Southernmost Beach Cafe
Southernmost House
Southernmost Point Bouy
The Strand

Naughty Wines at Knotty Vines Winery

9 July 201918 September 2024

Several groups of ladies sat around a table enjoying a few bottles of wine as I entered the Knotty Vines Winery in Wauseon, Ohio. Clearly, “The best wines are the ones we drink with friends.”

It was my first visit to Knotty Vines and I was pleasantly greeted by Layla, who patiently waited for me to place my order. I enjoyed reading the menu with its detailed stats on each of their wines from the price per wine and residual sugar (RS) levels. Knotty Vines offers the opportunity to sample five wines for the cost of three dollars and I could not wait to get started.

My first selection was the Knotty White which is a sweet and fruity white wine made from their “signature sweet Cayuga grapes.”

My next wine selection just happened to be the winery’s best seller, the Knaughty Blush. I enjoyed the “signature sweet pink Catawba, sweet yet delicate, Ohio’s Lake Erie Claim to Fame variety!” I understood why this was a winery favorite with its sugary sass and intoxicating watermelon color…not to mention the label is too darn cute.

Knotty Red is another irresistible blend produced by the winery. Listed as one of its newest wines, this grape jelly flavored sweet wine is their “signature sweet concord & deChaunac blend, with a distinct aroma of Grandma’s jelly”.

As Layla poured the Knotty Blue wine, I noticed the blue hue and distinct aroma of blueberries. While this is a grape and blueberry blend, there is no doubt that I could taste the tartness of the berry on the finish. This is also a New Release from Knotty Vines Winery and I thoroughly enjoyed the perfect balance of the blend. The winery describes it as “signature sweet blueberry with a kick of tart”.

The Peachy Keen, which is a peach dessert wine, is my final sample. It has a golden hue that sparkles like a million dollars. Layla mentions that some claim to taste cinnamon, but for some reason, all I was picking up was peach. It is described as a “peach dessert wine that finishes with apricot undertones, perfect to sip and savor”.

During my tasting I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Julie Nofziger, who owns the winery with her husband, Steve. She is extremely kind and with a modest pride, told me about the success of their winery. “This is our second career”, she stated, “prior to opening the winery, I was a teacher.” Knotty Vines Winery is in its fourth year and has grown exponentially since opening. They have already accomplished their five year goals in two and a half years and will continue with their expansion to include additional fruit wines in the near future.

The grapes that are harvested to create the wines for the winery were planted in 2008. The winery sits in the heart of the crop, surrounded by endless vines, providing a scenic view. It will be exciting to see the beauty of the vineyards at the height of their harvest, which takes place in late August and early September. Future plans to plant a few hundred additional vines will bring the winery up to capacity, which means more delicious wines.

By 5 o’clock in the afternoon, Knotty Vines Winery was a busy place. I love that there are so many regulars who make this their afternoon stop after a long day of work. I learned that the wine slushes, a fruit flavored mix which can be added to wine and frozen, are a great hit. In addition to selling their wines, the winery also serves a variety of snack plates and a wonderful selection of wine-related merchandise.

Knotty Vines Winery hosts a number of events and weekend nights of entertainment. This year, they participated in the Defiance Home Show where they took place in a “tasting garden”, providing attendees an opportunity to sample their delicious wines. In June, they bring in food trucks as a way of showing their customer appreciation and also host their “.5k wine crawl” where patrons are awarded with wine and food pairing stations strategically placed to complete half of a 5k distance. This year, the event takes place on June 11^th for a cost of $45 per person.

I completed my wine tasting and decided to enjoy the ambiance of the winery with one more glass before heading home. I had a difficult time making my decision among the 12 wines on the menu, but I decided that I would order the Naughty Blush and took a table in the newly expanded seating area at the winery. I had a beautiful view of the vineyards from the window and mapped out the route I would be taking towards my way back home. It was such a relaxing end to a wonderfully busy day and I see why it draws its happy hour crowd.

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

Have you had the opportunity to visit Knotty Vines Winery? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Knotty Vines Winery
2920 CR 19
Wauseon, OH 43567
Telephone: 419 446 WINE (9463)

The winery is open all year around with changing hours to accommodate the winter and summer seasons. For more information about the winery, the wines and to confirm the hours of operation, visit their website.

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express & Suites
8135 OH-108
Wauseon, OH 43567
Telephone: 419 335 1177

Where to Eat:

Sullivan’s Restaurant
141 North Fulton Street
Wauseon, OH 43567
Telephone; 419 335 0790

I was looking for a nice cold beer and a simple dinner when I found Sullivan’s Restaurant in Wauseon, OH. To be honest, I was pleasantly surprised by the extensive menu selections. I decided on the Kettle Chip Crusted Walleye, since this is a popular fish found near Lake Erie. The portion sizes are enough for at least two meals and the service was spectacular.

What to Read:

The Great Black Swamp: Historical Tales of 19th Century Northwest Ohio, by Jim Mollenkopf
The Great Black Swamp III, by Jim Mollenkopf
The Firebugs of Northwest Ohio, by M. A. Mimi Malcolm
Railroad Depots of Northwest Ohio
Glass in Northwest Ohio, by Quentin R. Skrabac

A Million Dollar View at Georgetown Vineyards, NOW GEORGETOWN TAVERN ON THE HILL

18 June 201916 March 2025

Situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Georgetown Vineyards was established on a parcel of land once owned by Thomas Jefferson. In addition to producing their estate wines, Georgetown Vineyards also makes wine from California grapes under the label, J. Nico Wine. In January, their Moscato made Amazon’s White Wine list.

The smell of cheese and tomato sauce was coming from the wood-fired pizza oven as I entered the winery. I selected a seat at the counter and decided to try a flight of sweet wines. I collected my wine samples and exited the tasting room to explore the pavilion and enjoy the intoxicating view of the city of Cambridge below.

There was plenty of seating both indoors and out to experience the wines of Georgetown Vineyards. The relaxed setting and friendliness of the staff felt as though I was stopping off at a friend’s house for the afternoon.

Georgetown Vineyards offers a list of pre-selected tasting options of four samples for the cost of $3.50. I decided upon the grouping that included an apple wine and three grape varietals, Fredonia, Concord and Niagara. Each sample was the size of a one ounce pour and there were additional flight options for the same price.

Here is an overview of my winetasting experience:

Apple – light tasting, not too strong, has a very light alcohol flavor and would be a super refreshing at a very cold temperature
Fredonia – loved the smell! Beautiful, dense reddish pink color with a sweet aftertaste, but colder, this would be another refreshing summertime drink.
Concord – love this grape! Cranberry color and so easy to drink. The flavors come out towards the back of my throat and tastes very similar to Fredonia.
Niagara – clear wine from one of the most popular grapes grown here in Ohio, it was not my favorite wine, but one that seems to be a common selection at most Ohio wineries.

These are just a few of the fabulous wines that are available at Georgetown Vineyards.

While enjoying the fabulous views and sipping my wine samples, I had the pleasure of meeting the resident cat, Miles. He’s a friendly little guy and if you give him attention he will be your friend for life. I am a cat lover, so he could have hung out with me all day.

In addition to wine tastings and a great selection of food options, Georgetown Vineyards schedules a wide range of activities for visitors throughout the week. Wednesdays are wine and paint nights with a local high school art teacher from Cambridge. Live entertainment draws a great crowd on Saturdays and a bonfire is lit as long as the weather cooperates.

There is nothing more entertaining and relaxing than the spectacular view from this cute winery on the hill. Looking down into the town of Cambridge, the location is nothing less than spectacular.

The total property covers fifty acres, with approximately four acres dedicated to the vineyards, which include Fredonia and Niagara grapes. These are perfect grapes for Ohio, hearty for acclimating to the winter months of the state.

The owner and winemaker of this fabulous winery is John Nicolozakes whose family originates from the Greek island of Crete. Growing up in the Greek tradition of pairing sumptuous food and delicious wines, he has become quite the expert at producing wines that mirror this Greek culture for which he is accustomed. He began developing his winemaking skills as a hobby out of his garage while working full time as a miner back in 1993. It wasn’t long after that he planted the first vines and opened up the winery for business in 1998. More vines were planted in 2013 to extend their vineyard an additional 140 x 30 feet wide.

Coming soon, Georgetown Vineyards will be selling craft beers under the label, Southside Brewing Company. This will be a great addition and will appeal to craft beer lovers to the winery as well! With the breathtaking view, exciting entertainment and a wide option of choices of food and drink, Georgetown Vineyards is positioned to continue its amazing success.

Are you already a fan of Georgetown Vineyards or have just recently visited? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Georgetown Vineyards
62920 Georgetown Road
Cambridge, Ohio 43725
Telephone: 740 435 3222

Hours: The winery is open from 11 AM to 8 PM on Monday – Thursday, 11 AM to 8:30 PM on Friday and Saturday. The winery is closed on Sunday. Hours are seasonal and are subject to change. Please refer to the winery’s website for any updates to its hours of operation and schedule of events.
Amenities: Weekend entertainment, dining, wine tastings, outdoor seating, online shopping, wine, Southside brewery, private events and scheduled events to include
Tips for Your Visit: During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings are not available. As always, please drink responsibly.

There is an interstate sign off of I-70 and additional signage that will bring you to the winery. They are open year round and offer a variety of wines for tasting as well as brick-oven pizzas. There is a gift shop and of course, one of the most scenic views for an Ohio winery. Visit their website for more information about their wines, hours of operation and upcoming events or check them out on Facebook. Please note that the winery’s hours change from the winter to summer months.

Where to Stay:

Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center
14755 Cadiz Road
Cambridge, OH 43725
Telephone: 740 439 2751

Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center is one of Ohio’s State Park Lodges. This fabulous property offers a great selection of summer activities including pontoon rentals, hiking, fishing, archery, outdoor pool, beach, lounge, restaurant and more. The rustic accommodations of the lodge rooms were perfect for our extended weekend stay.

Where to Eat:

Georgetown Vineyards
62920 Georgetown Road
Cambridge, Ohio 43725
Telephone: 740 435 3222

Georgetown Vineyards offers a great selection of custom-made Wood-Fired Brick Oven Pizzas. I ordered the Margherita Pizza which was absolutely delicious with a perfect blend of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese and basil, drizzled with olive oil.

Timber’s Restaurant at Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center
14755 Cadiz Road
Cambridge, OH 43725
Telephone: 740 439 2751

During my first night’s stay, I had expected to order a full dinner, but after having left-over pizza from Georgetown Vineyard, I decided on an order of chicken wings with the tropical habanero sauce. The appetizer was the perfect size and I enjoyed the heat and sweet of the wing sauce.

The Forum
2205 Southgate Parkway
Cambridge, OH 43275
Telephone: 740 439 2777

Flaming cheese Saganaki is one of my favorite dishes and you can’t go wrong by ordering the Greek sampler. All foods are made from scratch and are absolutely delicious!

Books to Read:

The Mansfield Killings: A Novel Based on True Events by Scott Fields
Green Bay Tree by Louis Bromfield
The Haunted History of the Ohio State Reformatory by Sherri Blake

Photo Guide to Mansfield:

The Ohio State Reformatory’s Facade, Cell Blocks and scenes from the movie, Shawshank Redemption
The Iconic Carousel at Richland Carousel Park
Kingwood Hall, the peacocks and gardens at Kingwood Center Gardens
Malabar State Park’s home of Louis Bromfield, the farm animals on the property and Mt. Jeez
The beautiful view of Georgetown from Georgetown Vineyards

Exploring Cincinnati’s Italian Heritage at CincItalia!

11 June 201918 September 2024

Cincinnati is known for its weekly Catholic festivals and the integral part they play, not only in raising money for the local parishes, but as a social meeting place among each of the churches. One of these festivals is the CincItalia, representing the St. Catherine of Siena Parish on the west side, which takes place at the Harvest Home Park each year.

The festivities began on Friday with an Adult-Only Carnevale celebration. Lasting from 6PM until midnight, the Italian food and wine flowed abundantly. This year, the Rusty Griswolds would perform on opening night, drawing large crowds to hear their favorite 80’s tunes.

I made my first stop at Gregorios to try the Arancini ($5), a Sicilian dish, made of rice with meat and cheese in the center, coated in bread crumbs and then fried. With a crisp outside and cheese-filled middle, this would only be the start of my Italian feast.

There were over 12 food stalls serving everything from Fried Calamari to Penne Pasta, hot dogs to pizza. A large selection of desserts included Italian favorites such as gelatos, ice and cannolis.

The Beer Garden was packed, but I was able to find a place to sit after waiting in the short line for a Prosecco.

The Rusty Griswolds were preparing for their first set as a large crowd began to gather near the stage. This band has been a local favorite in the early 1980’s when they were known as Free Reins. Having won a local rock station band contest, they performed for a few years until the band took a short hiatus. Reconvening in the late 90’s, the band changed their name to the Rusty Griswolds and bring large crowds to the venues where they perform.

With an amazing selection of Italian food, drinks and desserts, phenomenal 80’s music from the Rusty Griswolds, the CincItalia is one of the best Catholic festivals to attend each year.

Have you visited the CincItalia Festival or do you have a favorite Catholic festival in Cincinnati? I would love to hear about your experience or recommendations on where to visit next! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

CincItalia
Harvest Home Park
3961 North Bend Road
Cheviot, OH 45211
Telephone: 513 661 0651

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express West
5505 Rybolt Street
Cincinnati, OH 45248
Telephone: 513 574 6000

Where to Eat:

CincItalia
Harvest Home Park
3961 North Bend Road
Cheviot, OH 45211
Telephone: 513 661 0651

I recommend the arancini, stromboli, prosecco and limoncello.

More of My Favorite Places 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.

The Fremont Street Experience in Las Vegas

19 March 201921 September 2024

Images reflecting off of the canopy, screaming teens riding the zip-line, and stages of entertainment on the outstreets of Fremont Street summed up my Fremont Street Experience in the Old Town of Las Vegas.

It was a short distance for our hotel where we picked up the shuttle for Old Las Vegas. Dave and I grabbed a seat on the local city bus and within fifteen minutes we had arrived. Fremont Street spans four blocks with casinos, buffet specials and bars on each side. Three stages provide live music and we were excited to take in the tunes of the Beatles with look-a-like musicians dressed up as John, Paul, Ringo and George. The electric atmosphere and intimate space differs than the wide open spaces of Las Vegas Boulevard and the prices were less expensive as well.

We enjoyed our time strolling the old strip where historical casinos have existed since the early 1900s. The Golden Gate & Casino Hotel, once known as the “Hotel Nevada” was the first casino in Las Vegas, built in 1906. More casinos would soon follow in the early 1930’s and Vegas’ gambling industry would grow over the next few years. People continue to visit the Golden Gate with a bit of nostalgia, but most will stop by for their cheap shrimp cocktails and best odds of winning.

The Fremont Hotel & Casino opened in 1956 and was the first high rise to be built in Las Vegas and was considered to be the tallest building in the whole state of Nevada. This hotel makes up one of the “four corners” located at the crossroads of Casino Center Boulevard and Fremont Street. It is here where Wayne Newton made his Las Vegas debut in 1959.

Fascinated with the crime show, “Snapped” I had somewhat of a morbid interest in the Ted Binion case. Strolling the slots of Binion’s Gambling Hall and Casino I thought of the episode in which Ted Bunion was allegedly killed by his girlfriend and her lover. The indictment would eventually be overturned in 1998.

The hotel first opened in 1951 under the name of the Horseshoe Club and was owned by the Binion family until 2004. Poker players will recognize this building as the venue of the annual World Series of Poker which began in 1970. The hotel portion of Binion’s was closed in 2009.

The Golden Nugget was completed in 1946 and is said to be the largest of the downtown casinos. With close to 2,500 rooms and suites, it is known as the first building built as a casino from the ground up. The resort’s famed attraction is the 960 ounce gold nugget called the “Hand of Faith” and is on display inside.

Whether it is the Fremont Street Experience or the endless wandering among the Fremont Street casinos, visitors leave the strip to explore Old Vegas made famous by the Rat Pack. A trip to “Glitter Gulch” is an experience of unusual dimensions. Given this nane due to the number of neon signs, many of the originals have since retired and can be found refurbished in the Neon Museum exhibit.

The most famous of the neon signs on Fremont Street is Vegas Vic. With his cowboy boots and cigarette, it is one of the most prominent of all figures representing Las Vegas. The number of lights can be overwhelming yet its animation is entertaining.

Classic movies such as Elvis Presley’s “Viva Las Vegas”, the James Bond film “Diamonds are Forever” and the 1997 comedy “Vegas Vacation” will forever memorialize the original Las Vegas. What an amazing Strip of history.

Do you prefer the atmosphere of “Old Vegas” or “The Strip?” I would love to hear your opinion, so please leave your comments below! Many thanks for joining me on my Fremont Street Experience and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Fremont Street Experience

Golden Gate & Casino Hotel
1 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 385 1906

The Fremont Hotel & Casino
200 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 385 3232

Binion’s Gambling Hall and Hotel
128 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 382 1600

The Golden Nugget
129 Fremont Street
Las Vegas, NV 89101
Telephone: 702 385 7111

Where to Stay:

Harrah’s
3475 S. Las Vegas Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
Telephone: 800 214 9110

Where to Eat:

Golden Gate for its cheap shrimp cocktails!

What to Eat:

Anything! Las Vegas has it all!

What to Read:

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, by Hunter S. Thompson
Leaving Las Vegas, by John O’Brien

Photo Guide for Las Vegas:

“Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” Sign
The Paris Hotel Entrance and Eiffel Tower
The Luxor Walkway and Sphinx
The Excalibur Hotel
New York New York Hotel
The Arc de Triomphe at the Paris Hotel
The Eiffel Tower view from the Bellagio
The Bellagio Fountains and its Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
The Rose Covered Entrance to the Mayfair Supper Club at Bellagio
The Linq Promenade with views of the High Roller and Inside the High Roller
The Venetian Stairs and Lobby
Gondola Ride at the Venetian
The Venetian Bridge
The Stairs at Wynn Las Vegas
Neon Museum signs
Fremont East District sign
Retro Vegas Sign
Abbey Road
The Empty Club
Fremont District Murals
Red Rock Canyon’s Red Rocks and Joshua Trees
Valley of Fire State Park – Slot Canyon, Fire Wave, Mouse Tank Road, Pastel Pink Canyon
Seven Magic Mountains
Mrs. Coco’s Cafe (book in advance)
Hoover Dam
Canyon West (about 2 hours from Vegas)

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Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas

19 February 201921 September 2024

The colossal palace complex of Caesar’s Palace in Las Vegas represents the opulence and luxury that only the Romans could have envisioned. Adorned with Romanesque statues and artwork, this fine resort could have easily been a summer home for the rulers of Rome, one of the world’s greatest empires. The mega-resort first opened in the 1960s with its over-the-top reconstruction of the European city’s most memorable monuments, statues and fountains.

The Trevi Fountain outside of the Forum Shops

Caesar’s Palace would not adequately represent Rome without its Colosseum offering entertainment from such acts as singers Celine Dion and Elton John as well as comedian headliner Jerry Seinfeld. The high-tech version of Rome’s ancient arena seats 41,000 with state of the art lighting systems and sound. While some may not be able to afford the venue’s entertainment, there are a group of animatronic statues that provide free hourly shows called the Fall of Atlantis & Festival Fountain Show.

The main dining attractions of Caesar’s Palace include three star Michelin chef, Guy Savoy’s restaurant, Gordon Ramsay’s Hell Kitchen (opened January 2018) and Pronto by Giada (opened early 2018). In addition to its dining and nightlife, it is no surprise that the Forum Shops are also a major attraction within the casino hotel.

Shopping at Caesar’s Palace

The most dramatic entrance into the Forum Shops is through The Strip. Gargantuan statues and a grand staircase welcome the shopping goddess to over 160 boutique shops to include expensive designers such as Fendi and Armani as well as specialty boutiques and a three story H&M.

Caesar’s Palace Fountains

After a day of shopping, a girl’s best friend is the Qua Baths and Spa. In addition to its spa services, a $25 day pass at the Roman Baths includes the opportunity to feel the heat in the cedar sauna or enjoy the cold of the arctic room.

Late into the night, the resort’s OMNIA nightclub, Pure, is known for its patio providing a view of the strip as well as its DJs spinning the latest chartbusters. Alternatively, for a laid-back atmosphere, drinks at the Spanish Steps are a must.

What is your favorite Las Vegas hotel and why? I would love to hear about your experiences in Las Vegas, especially if you stayed at the luxurious Caesar’s Palace, so leave a message in the Comment section below! Happy Travels!

Caesar’s Palace is located at 3570 Las Vegas Boulevard South. For more information about the resort, you can contact their website at www.caesarspalace.com.

Replica of the Trevi Fountain in Rome

Fall of Atlantis & Festival Fountain Show

Aquarium with Fish Swimming among Roman Ruins

Mosaic Like Artwork Depicting Roman Chariot Racing

Romanesque Statues

Replica of the Parthenon of Rome

Replica of one of Rome’s Famous Fountains

Beautiful Fountains of Caesar’s Palace

Politics, Theaters and Automobiles: Springfield, Ohio’s Rich History!

5 February 201716 September 2024

After filling up on a hearty lunch, I returned to the Clark County Heritage Center in Springfield. With so much history, I began my second session to cover the time period beginning in the 1900s up until the 1970s where the museum’s information about Clark County and Springfield ends.

In the early 1900s, Springfield, Ohio’s population was close to 60,000. To celebrate their centennial in 1901 the city hosted Buffalo Bill’s Wild West show, a traveling performance which featured Greenville, Ohio native, Annie Oakley. During this time, advances in transportation, farming equipment and entertainment made Springfield a popular location to live and visit.

Theodore Roosevelt was the President of the United States at this time and nearby Dayton residents, Wilbur and Orville Wright piloted the first airplane at Kitty Hawk.

By winter of 1903, three major fires claimed three lives in Springfield and destroyed an entire city block.

Sully Jaymes was Springfield’s only African American attorney who represented the underprivileged African Americans. A graduate of Boston University and the University of Michigan, Jaymes practiced law for over 50 years until his death in 1950.

In 1905, Gus Sun opened a vaudeville theater and booking agency in Springfield. During this time, architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed and built a home for car magnate, Burton J. Westcott.

By 1904, the Boys and Girls club was founded by AB Graham, which is known today as the 4H Club. This agricultural organization teaches school-aged children about “farming techniques and home management”. During the same year, International Harvester opened up a plant in Springfield to make trucks, bringing in a large number of jobs to the area.

During Taft’s presidency, the Chakeres brothers open the city’s first movie theater in 1908 which would eventually lead to a total of eight movie houses around town. The cost to see a move was only 50 cents back then Following William Howard Taft, Woodrow Wilson takes office and the US enters into World War I. Westcott Motor Car Company begins producing “The Westcott” between the years 1916 and 1926. It would be the only automobile that would be manufactured in Springfield, rumored that the city lost the bid to Detroit for producing cars for the Ford Motor Company. As Ohio braces for the Depression Era, racial tensions rise as riots break out among Springfield residents. The Ohio National Guard is called in to preserve order.

A very controversial event took place in Springfield in 1923 when the Klu Klux Klan held a rally at the fairgrounds. These horrific, racially charged events were being held all over the nation in the 1920s, even in our nation’s capitol of Washington DC.

Even in the midst of these thorny racial relationships of just a year ago, the city of Springfield is named the “Rose City” due to its large production of roses.

Amidst the Great Depression, George Rogers Clark Park is established in 1930 near Buck Creek with a reenactment of the Battle of Piqua taking place here to commemorate its 150^th anniversary. The opening of Cliff Park soon follows in 1932.

Chakeres Theaters gain world wide recognition opening theaters across Ohio in the 1930s and the first service station, Bonded Oil, is built in Urbana. As Springfield reaches the end of the 30’s World War II breaks out and the US comes to the aid of its allies after the Pearl Harbor bombing in 1941. Three Springfielders died in the attack and by 1943, Wittenberg University is set up to train Air Force Cadets to assist in the war efforts.

After World War II, the soldiers return home and only four years later the Korean War breaks out. The Clark County Fair, first opened in 1854, moves to a larger space taking over the old Springfield Airport in 1947. With an increase in population, Mercy Hospital opens in 1950 with the help of philanthropist Joseph Shouvlin. There were currently 111,661 residents in Springfield at that time.

Eisenhower’s presidency would be the start of the Civil Rights movement and would continue as John F. Kennedy is sworn into office in 1960. It was a victory for local African Americans when Robert C. Henry was the first black man elected to the Springfield City Commission and later becomes Mayor in 1966. Taking over Henry’s post as Mayor in 1968 would be Springfield’s first female mayor, Betty Brunk.

The 1970s brought about the interstate and I-70 draws businesses along the highway’s corridor. The population of Springfield has reached upwards into the 150 thousands. As the number of businesses increase, Springfield Mayor Robert Burton, plans to revitalize the downtown area, which has fallen into ruin over the years. Another economic victory includes the opening of the Upper Valley Mall in 1971.

By the time Gerald Ford takes office, Robert Burton has made good on his promise to help Springfield and the New City Hall was constructed.

Fast forward to 2016 and there is a continued effort to revitalize the city of Springfield. The downtown area is growing and new businesses are moving into spaces that were once left vacant. Snyder Park has once again become a beautiful place to visit and the Farmer’s Market is thriving during the weekends at the Heritage Museum. Rumor has it that even the Upper Valley Mall will be making changes in the near future as well but plans have not been finalized. During my return, it was an exciting time to live in Springfield and many residents came together to further the development of the city in a positive direction. Who knows? The difference one could make for Springfield may lead to noteriety at the Heritage Center’s Museum of Springfield history.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Heritage Center in Springfield and learn about its history? What was your favorite moment in time? 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:

The Clark County Heritage Center
117 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, Ohio 45502
Telephone: 937 324 0657

Admission Fee: Free, and donations are welcome.
Hours: Museum: Tuesday through Friday from 9AM to 4PM; Saturday from 9AM to 3PM. Closed on the following holidays: New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
Amenities: Bookstore and gift shop, guided tours, video presentation
Length of Visit: 2 – 3 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Donations recommended are Family: $10; Adults: $5 and Children: $3.

Where to Stay:

Courtyard Marriott Springfield
100 S. Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

Heart of Country Gift Shoppe and Teaberries Cafe
1600 E. Leffel Lane
Springfield, OH 45505
Telephone: 937 325 3030

I could spend hours strolling the Heart of Country Shoppe, but when I visit, I can’t wait to have lunch at Teaberries. I always start my lunch with a piece of yummy, moist orange bread. Known for their wide varieties of chicken salad sandwiches, I always revert to the House Favorite, the Midwest Delight, served on a butter croissant. If you have room, try their homemade carrot cake or peanut butter pie.

More favorite Springfield eateries:

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

Where to Drink:

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

What to Read:

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

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

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