Tag Archives: Ohio

Cantwell Cliffs at Hocking Hills

It was a beautiful weekend of hiking throughout Hocking Hills State Park and I wanted to find a short, moderate hike that would be a little challenging as well as scenic.  Cantwell Cliffs Loop was the perfect trail measuring less than 2 miles featuring gorges and a gorgeous waterfall.  Located 17 miles from Old Man’s Cave, this would also be a convenient stop on my way back home to Columbus.

The fall leaves had collected along the edges of the trail .  As I reached the top of the stairs, I caught a glimpse of a bushy tail rushing up beech a tree.

Created by the erosion of the rock caused by the Buck Run tributary, the Cantwell trail runs through both the gorge and the rim of the cliffs.  The stairways leading up to the rim were steep and made for a great work out, a section of the trail known as Fat Woman’s Squeeze.

A closer look at the Blackstone rock showed striations as well as small caverns.  Thin layers of moss covered the boulders and streaming lines of ants were leaving from their little cave homes in search of food.

The scenery throughout this hike was unique with twisted trees and tight spaces between the rocks.  Quietly enjoying my surroundings, I could hear the crunching of leaves beneath my boots and the occasion tweet from a bird.

Ascending the trail, I looked back to see the thick woods of white poplar trees.  The wind was beginning to pick up with the light flutter of branches and leaves and soon I had approached the waterfall.

While I was excited to see the waterfall, it was only a trickle  of water.  The sound coming from the small stream and droplets echoed off of the rocks as the water slowly reached the ground.  I as a little disappointed that there was not much of a fall, so I will ahve to return again to see it this summer.   I always love an excuse to hike.

Have you hiked Cantwell Cliffs?  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 spring hike of Cantwell Cliffs and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:   

Cantwell Cliffs at Hocking Hills State Park
13540 OH-374
Rockbridge, OH  43143
Telephone:  740 385 6842

  • Admission Fee: Free
  • Hours:  Open daily from dusk to dawn
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Where sturdy shoes or hiking boots and during the rainy seasons, you may want a walking stick to keep from falling.  Early morning hikes are best in season as the trails can fill up.  Try hiking the trail during each of the seasons for a different perspective.

Where to Stay:

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

Where to Eat:

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

What to Read: 

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

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

What to Expect in 2017

This year will not only be full of local travel throughout Ohio, but also Las Vegas, Nashville, Boston, a Caribbean Cruise, as well as Israel and Jordan.  I look forward to reminiscing about past travel and making plans for the future.  Join me in exploring this amazing world and share your journeys with me as well.

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in Cincinnati, Ohio

The Strip, Las Vegas

Outside the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville

Walden Pond, Concord, Massachusetts

St Thomas, USVI

Beautiful view of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives

Walking down the Siq at Petra, Jordan

So excited to share my experiences and awesome travel opportunities.  Don’t forget to let me know where you will be going this year!

A Collection of Blog Posts: 2016

ASIA

Philippines:  General Santos City, Naomi’s Heart Mission

CARIBBEAN:

San Juan,  Puerto Rico:  Walking Tour of Old San Juan  and  Walking Tour of Old San Juan, Part 2 

Caribbean, St. Kitts

19 View of the cruise ships from the belltower, 1.29.16

CENTRAL AMERICA:

Costa Rica:  Exploring Central Costa Rica

Costa Rica:  The Caribbean Side

Costa Rica:  Jaguar Rescue Center

Mexico, Mazatlan

Mexico, Puerto Vallarta

EUROPE:

Italy, Venice:  The Clock Tower of Venice

5-d2-a-view-of-st-marks-square-from-the-torre-dellorologio

UNITED STATES:

United States, Arizona:  Grand Canyon

The Colorado River in the Grand Canyon

The Painted Desert

 

United States:  California, San Diego

United States:  Colorado:  A Weekend in the Rockies

United States:  Louisiana, New Orleans

United States:  Maine, Rockland

United States:  Massachusetts:  Walden Pond

United States:  Michigan:  Four Days in Hale

United States:  Nevada:  Las Vegas:  The Paris Hotel

United States:  Ohio

Cedar Falls in Athens

BadaBing:  This Restaurant is Now Closed

Pizza at BadaBing

Brewfontaine

Brewfontaine in Bellefontaine

Cincinnati:  Abby Girl Sweets

Cincinnati:  BowTie Cafe

3-img_5846

Cincinnati:  Cincinnati Art Museum, The Divine Felines Exhibit

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

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

Cincinnati:  Interview With Artist, Jimi Jones

Jimi Jones Artwork

Jimi Jones

Cincinnati:  Cincinnati Children’s Museum – Leonardo da Vinci Exhibit

Exploring the Genius of Leonardo da Vinci at the Cincinnati Children’s Museum

Cincinnati:  Jungle Jim’s

11 IMG_6477

Cincinnati:  Yeatman’s Cove

Cleveland:  The Cleveland Art Museum, Pharaoh King of Egypt Exhibit

The Pharaoh Exhibit at the Cleveland Museum of Art

An Egyptian Sarcophagus

Cleveland:  La Pizzeria

Cleveland:  Maltz Museum, Operation Finale

The Capture and Trial of Adolf Eichmann

The Holocaust Survivors

Columbus:  Franklin Park Conservatory

Gorgeous Orchids at Franklin Park Conservatory

Amazing Butterflies at the Franklin Park Conservatory

Ohio:  Columbus, Old Bag of Nails

Ohio:  Columbus:  Olentangy Caverns

Ohio:  Greenville:  KitchenAid Store

Springfield:  Art Museum, Jason Morgan

Jason Morgan Artwork

Springfield:  Art Museum, Jimi Jones

Jimi Jones Artwork

Auschwitz Exhibit at The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Celebrating 70 Years of Auschwitz Closing

Sam and Ethel’s

Enjoying a Reuben at Sam & Ethel’s

Yellow Springs Brewery

Sampling craft beer at Yellow Springs Brewery

Ohio Christmas:

Columbus: Alum Creek Lights

Drive Thru Christmas Lights

PNC Lights: Cincinnati Zoo

A Tunnel of Lights

Glacier Ridge Metro Park, Plain City, Ohio

DSC_0786A 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.

DSC_0811

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.

DSC_0846

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.

DSC_0831

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.

DSC_1146

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.

DSC_1151

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.

DSC_1149

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.

O’Betty’s Red Hot in Athens, Ohio

House sitting for my sister in Athens,  I wanted to try a couple of local hot spots for lunch and decided on O’Betty’s.  Also known as O’Betty’ Red Hot, I wasn’t quite sure if I would even like a Red Hot, but I thought it was a clever name and made plans to stop by the cute little restaurant in Uptown.

O’Betty’s first opened in 2003 within the college campus of Ohio University and has been a staple of students and locals over the years.  Serving meaty franks (usually smoked or cured), they are dyed to give them their red color, hence the name Red Hot.   Using fresh ingredients and served in “toasted and steamed honey buns”, the topping combinations are what keep the students coming back.

A Red Hot, also known as a Texas hot, is a term coined in Rochester, NY which refers to a “pork, beef or pork/beef combination hot dog.” 

Stepping through the door I was welcomed with an aroma of steamed buns and fried potatoes.  Studying the menu above the counter, I found humor in the names of their red hot selections paying tribute to famous burlesque stars.  From the classic Gypsy “High Class” to the modern Tempest “Stormy Weather”, there were so many options that I had a difficult time making my selection. I decided to try the Dixie “Hubba-Hubba” which was topped with homemade chili sauce, onion, cheddar cheese and stadium mustard.

As I waited for the servers to complete my order, I browsed the hot dog display which included vintage signs, wiener dog paraphernalia and hot dog-related merchandise.  While hot dogs seem as American as baseball and apple pie, they are first historically mentioned by ancient author, Homer, describing casings filled with ground meat and spices. Vienna and Frankfurt have taken ownership of this delicacy claiming its invention in the 1800s and calling them “dachschund sausages.”  In 1987, Frankfurt celebrated the hot dog’s 500th anniversary.

Americans claim the invention of the hot dog and bun combination. Charles Feltman came up with a novel idea by serving the hot dogs wrapped in a bun to keep from burning their patron’s hands. So this is apparently how the hot dog became a favorite meal for baseball games.

The artwork and items on display were incredibly fascinating. The collection provides a historical and educational look at the invention of the red hot and its evolution over the years.

I was even more amazed by the multiple awards O’Betty’s had won since 2004 with their latest award in 2015.  They were also listed as one of “15 Mouthwatering Restaurants in Ohio You Have to Try” written by Katie Quinn, a local Ohio writer.

I couldn’t wait to sink my teeth into this amazing hot dog fully loaded with toppings.  They say the hot dog has an outer casing that makes your first bite “snap.”  The servings were quite generous so I saved half for later, but it was definitely difficult to pull myself away from eating the whole dog.  I can’t wait to check off all of the menu items and look forward to some new inventions.

Have you had the opportunity to dine at O’Betty’s Red Hot?  Which hot dog did you select?  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:

O’Betty’s Red Hot
15 W. State Street
Athens, OH  45701
Telephone:   740 589 6111

Where to Eat:

O’Betty’s Red Hot
15 W. State Street
Athens, OH  45701
Telephone:   740 589 6111

What to Eat:

Check out O’Betty’s Red Hot Menu to find your favorite hot dog:
http://www.obettys.com/hot-dogs.html

You can also design your own hot dog creation!

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

The Wyandottes at Olentangy Caverns

Several signs along interstate 23 near Columbus, Ohio announced the nearby cave system of Delaware.  I had just visited the Blend of Seven Winery for a wine tasting and the billboards piqued my interest.  I decided at the last moment to explore the Olentangy Caverns and learn of their importance to the local Wyandotte tribe.

Formed millions of years ago by underground streams, the Olentangy Caverns are three levels of limestone caves, rooms and natural passages.

Well lit for self-guided tours, there are seven stations within the caverns that provide historical information about the creation of the caverns and how the local Indian tribes found them.  Narrow passages may have an adverse effect on those visitors who are claustrophobic and Fat Man’s Misery is one of the narrowest.

This cave system, used by the Wyandotte Indians to escape the Delaware Indians, was discovered by J.M. Adams, a local camper, in 1821.

The Fish Rock, located in the Council Chamber is believed to have been used to conduct tribal ceremonies by the Wyandotte.  Inside this large room, several arrowheads and other stone artifacts were found and are on display in the red cabin museum.

Additional points of interest within the cave system include the Battleship Rock and Crystal room on the second level.  Located 105 feet below Cathedral Hall shows evidence that the Wyandotte built fires here where visitors can find creosote deposits on the walls, while the Bell Tower displays fossils in the wall.

With temperatures a consistent 55 degrees year around, the Olentangy Caverns are a great place to visit regardless of the weather.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Olentangy Caverns?  I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Olentangy Caverns
1779 Home Road
Delaware, OH  43015
Telephone:  740 548 7917

  • Admission Fees are based on the selected activities. As prices may change, visit the Caverns’ website for the most up to date information. Activities include:  petting zoo, gem mining, treasure maze, minigolf, giant checkers and playground.
  • Hours:  Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5 PM from April 1st to November 30th;
  • Amenities:   Picnic area, playground and clean bathrooms
  • Length of Visit:  30 minutes for the cave tour and additional time for the additional activities and amenities.
  • Tips: Arrive early as buses will start to unload tour groups around 11AM.  Wear tennis shoes as the rock floor may be slippery due to water. Narrow passages, so this may not be a great adventure for those who are claustrophobic. Visit the caverns’ website for more historical information as well as a map of the cave system.  Not wheelchair accessible.  Self guided tour provides kiosks with recorded summaries at each stop.

Where to Stay:

Nationwide Hotel and Convention Center
100 Green Meadows Drive South
Lewis Center, OH  43035
Telephone:  614 880 4300

Where to Eat:

The Porch Ohio
5808 Columbus Pike
Lewis Center, OH  43035
Telephone:  740 201 8761

Order the Arepa Cabimera which is a baked cornmeal cake with chicken.

Here are more of my favorite Columbus Classics:

  • Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream:  Known for her unique flavor combinations, Jeni Britton Bauer has made ice cream famous in C-Bus!
  • North Market:  A one-stop shop for universal cuisine, Columbus’ North Market is worth a stop in the Short North District of the city.
  • The Thurman Cafe:  The Thurmanator is the burger of all burgers at this longtime local cafe in German Village.  There may be a wait all burgers are made to order.
  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant:  While the sausage at Schmidt’s is the official food of Columbus, it’s the amazing Cream Puffs that have the locals lining up at the door.

What to Read: 

  • Columbus: The Story of a City, by Ed Lentz
  • Columbus, Ohio: A Photographic Portrait, by Randall L Schieber and Robin Smith
  • Ohio in Photographs: A Portrait of the Buckeye State, by Ian Adams
  • Secret Columbus, by Anietra Hamper

Photo Guide for Columbus: 

  • Coffman Park: small ponds, bridges, white barn, pavilion, landscaping, public art
  • Columbus Museum of Art:  the grounds, inside artwork and special exhibits
  • Everal Barn and Homestead:  landscaping, white barn, beautiful lake
  • Frank Fetch Park:  gardens, brick paths, beautiful trees and landscaping
  • Franklin Park Conservatory:  beautiful gardens, artwork, flowers and special exhibits
  • Gantz Park:  barn, beautiful trees,
  • German Village:  brick streets, landscaping, parks, charming architecture, Old World charm, historical buildings
  • Grove City:  brick roads, small town, shopping area
  • Hayden Falls: wooden walking path, waterfall
  • Historical Village of Hilliard:  a small village to include a schoolhouse, train car, chapel, log cabin, covered bridge, gazebo and granary
  • Homestead Park in Hilliard: walking path, covered bridge, barns, trains, tractor, pond and pet park
  • Inniswood Metro Gardens:  gardens, lily pond, herb garden, play area for children, secret garden
  • Ohio State House: rotunda and landscaping (photo permit required)
  • Ohio State University:  campus, landscaping, Mirror Lake, Ohio Stadium (you can pay a small fee to take photos inside)
  • Park of Roses in Clintonville:  various types of rose gardens
  • Riverfront Park:  city view, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
  • Schiller Park:  gardens, walking paths, stone columns, wooden bridge, small lake
  • Scioto Mile:  city views, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
  • Scioto Park in Dublin:  statue of Chief Leatherlips, river views, landscaping, and paths
  • Short North:  restaurants, italian village, shops, city views, murals
  • Topiary Park:  depiction of George Seurat’s 1884 painting, landscape, fountains, small pond, gazebo

A Visitor’s Guide to Mt. Adams, Cincinnati, OH

Having lived in Cincinnati, I spent many weekends in Mt. Adams, enjoying its old-world charm and fabulous restaurants.  Steep winding roads lead to a hillside neighborhood that towers over the city’s downtown district.   With parks providing spectacular views, Mt. Adams is also a perfect getaway for locals who want to experience a location that seems more like a European village than a suburb of the Queen City.

1-img_5789

I began this trip with a visit to Rookwood Bar and Restaurant which is located at 1077 Celestial Street.  First established in 1892 as the location for the production of world-renowned pottery, a visit to Rookwood is one that will not soon be forgotten.  Eat on the outdoor patio or request to dine inside of the kiln for a unique experience.  I love the views from here and the food is spectacular.

UPDATE:  Rookwood Restaurant now closed!

2-img_5796

Across the street at 1071 Celestial is the upscale restaurant, The Celestial.  This four-star restaurant requires a dress code, but the food is exceptional as well as the views of downtown Cincinnati.  This piece of land was once part of Mt. Adams’ “entertainment district” where an amusement center and beer garden stood until they were destroyed by a fire in 1895.

UPDATE:  The Celestial Restaurant has closed after 50 years.

3-img_5801

I followed Celestial Street until it met Hill Street.  Next to the Mt. Adams steps is a beautiful park.  Quite often I would pass by runners and joggers along this path which opens up to phenomenal views of Kentucky and the Ohio River.  This area was once owned by Nicholas Longworth who planted his vineyards along this hill.  Soon thereafter,  immigrants from Ireland and Germany took residence here.  It was in this part of southwest Ohio that Longworth developed the Catawba grape which would be used to produce “America’s first champagne” known as Golden Wedding.

4-img_5812

One of my favorite places to hang out with friends on the weekends was Mt.  Adams Bar and Grill, located at 938 Hatch Street.  This place has some great history and I love the fact that the backbar came from a speakeasy owned by “The King of Bootlegging”, George Remus.  Remus was a Cincinnati criminal attorney that became famous for defending murderers, but was most known for making and distributing alcohol during the Prohibition.  It is said that he was the inspiration for the famous character of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s book, The Great Gatsby.

5-img_5813

A small entrance leads to The Blind Lemon next door to Mt. Adams Bar and Grill and could easily be missed.  Another hidden gem with lots of history, this amazing bar is the perfect place to enjoy the summertime garden patio or wintertime bonfires.

6-img_5814

Most bars and restaurants on Mt. Adams are within walking distance, so finding a great streetside parking spot is essential.  Since spaces fill up quickly, there is also the three-level parking garage on St. Gregory.

It was not unusual for us to start our night at Mt. Adams Bar and Grill for dinner, stop at The Blind Lemon for a couple of drinks and end the night at Yesterday’s Old Time Saloon where the drinks were strong and the prices were cheap.

8-img_5819

A short walk from the Holy Cross Church is The Monastery that was once the location of the Cincinnati Observatory.  Dedicated by President John Quincy Adams in 1843, the telescope was considered  the most powerful scope of its time.  Today the Monastery houses the property management firm of Towne Properties, while the Observatory has long been moved to the Mount Lookout neighborhood.

9-img_5823

From the Monastery, I traveled down Pavilion to the next corner where I stopped for a Cafe Mocha at The Bow Tie Café.  I took a seat at the Piazza where I took some time to enjoy the view, catch up on some of my notes and look over a few of my photos.

10-img_5822

I sat under the shade of the monk statue who stood with grapes in his right hand and a cup of wine in his left.  What a perfect representation of historical Mt. Adams when it was once a successful vineyard.

11-img_5839

I continued my walk heading east on Pavilion where I reached Guido Street.  Making a right, the street dead ends into The Holy Cross Immaculata Church.  Built in 1859 for mid-19th century German immigrants,  Mass continues to this day with one service on Saturday and two on Sundays.

12-img_5838

Since the 1860’s, the Mount Adams steps leading up to the Holy Cross Immaculata have a great significance to Christians during the Good Friday holiday.  The tradition is similar to the Santa Scala in Rome where believers start at the bottom and recite the rosary while advancing up each of the 85 stairs until reaching the top.   Beginning at midnight on Holy Thursday until midnight on Good Friday, the ritual begins at the “Good-Friday Arch” on Adams Crossing, across  Columbia Parkway.

13-img_5842

Backtracking towards St. Gregory on Pavilion, I passed another popular spot on Mt. Adams, known as Crowley’s.  Located at 958 Pavilion, Crowley’s is Mt. Adams’ oldest Irish Pub.  Irish immigrants made Crowley’s their meeting place when it first opened and it has remained in the Crowley family for decades.

14-img_5827

Mount Adam’s Pavilion has been a favorite bar on Mt. Adam’s for as long as I can remember.  With a packed schedule of live entertainment, this location is also perfect for enjoying fabulous views of the river.

Along  St. Gregory’s are several bars and restaurants to include:

15-img_5852

Quincy’s, located at 111 St Gregory, Mt. Adams

16-img_5853

Longworth’s at 1108 St. Gregory Street, Mount Adams

UPDATE:  Longworth’s is now permanently closed.

17-img_5854

Monk’s Cove, at 1104 St. Gregory, Mt. Adams

18-img_5856

Tavern on the Hill, found at 1111 St. Gregory, Mt. Adams

Mt. Adams remains  an artistic community and location for some of the best museums in Cincinnati.  I have visited both the Cincinnati Art Museum and Krohn Conservatory.  The Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park is a two-time Tony Award winning theater which sponsors a wide variety of productions.  For a period of meditation, visit Eden Park with its gardens, fountains and spectacular scenic views of the Ohio River, downtown Cincinnati and Kentucky.

I imagine Mt. Adams as it would have been when the German and Irish immigrants first lived here or when it was a community of artists, who enjoyed the quiet solitude away from the city.

I love this neighborhood’s strong history and its European charm where one can easily walk from one side of town to the next.  So many things have changed over the years but one thing remains constant.  Mount Adams is one of my favorite places to visit in Cincinnati.

Have you spent time in Mt. Adams or have a favorite Cincinnati neighborhood that I should visit?  I would love to hear your recommendations if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for visiting Mt. Adams with me through my blog post and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do: 

The Monastery
1055 Saint Paul Place
Cincinnati, OH  45202

The Holy Cross Immaculata Church
30 Guido Street
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone: 513 721 6544r

Where to Eat: 

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

The Bow Tie Cafe
1101 St. Gregory  Street
Cincinnati, OH   45202
Telephone:  513 621 2233

Where to Drink: 

The Blind Lemon
936 Hatch Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone:  513 241 3885

Yesterday’s Old Time Saloon – permanently closed
930 Hatch Street
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone:  513 421 9998

Crowley’s Bar
958 Pavillion
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 721 7709

Mount Adams Pavilion – permanently closed
949 Pavilion Street
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone: 513 744 9200

Quincy’s – permanently closed
1101 St. Gregory Street
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone: 513 381 3132

Monk’s Cove
1104 St. Gregory
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone: 513 703 7600

Tavern on the Hill – permanently closed
1111 St. Gregory St, #1
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 421 3309

Where to Stay: 

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Cincinnati Midtown
610 Eden Park Drive
Cincinnati, OH  45202
Telephone:  513 381 8300

Mt. Adams is located on the east side of Cincinnati and can be accessed by taking Columbia Parkway.  For more information about this  fabulous hillside location, pick up a Mt. Adams map by the parking garage or visit their website at www.mtadamstonight.com.

 

100-img_5790

View from the Celestial Parking Lot

101-img_5792

Another View of Downtown Cincinnati from the Celestial Parking Lot

102-img_5802

Mt Adams Steps

103-img_5805

View from the park next to Mt. Adams Steps

104-img_5820

The Monastery

105-img_5826

A View of the Monastery from Guido Street

106-img_5833

Mt. Adams Steps

107-img_5837

View of Cincinnati from the Mt. Adams Steps at the Holy Cross Immaculata Church

108-img_5840

Reaching the top step of the Holy Cross Immaculata Church, Mt. Adams

dsc_0115

View of Downtown Cincinnati from Ida Street on Mt. Adams

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

From Ordinary to Extraordinary: The Food at The Merchant House

1 IMG_2100

Recommended by Louisa at Kennedy Vineyards, I was eager to dine at The Merchant House in nearby Greenville, Ohio.  There was hardly a seat in the house, so I took a place at the bar, which was just as busy.  The bartender, Joanne, recommended a great wine and took my order for Pig Candy as a starter.   Enjoying my glass of bold red, I took my time admiring the rustic, contemporary architecture and looked over the menu.  The exposed brick and hardwood beams added to the charm of this popular new restaurant.

2 IMG_2101

As my appetizer arrived, I could smell the smokiness of the spices along with the sweetness of the brown sugar.  My first bite was the perfect blend of nutmeg, allspice and cinnamon and I could have honestly placed another order, it was that extraordinary.

3 IMG_2102

The Merchant House has a gift for taking ordinary food items and turning them into delectable gourmet dishes,  The combinations are unique such as fried chicken & mac n’ cheese waffles.

Butter burgers, seafood jambalaya and BBQ are some of the restaurant’s most popular dishes, but I had my eye on the Monte Cristo sandwich.  All I could think about was a crispy, deep fried sandwich to dip into homemade strawberry preserves.  This “thick cut ham, turkey and Swiss cheese sandwich between two pieces of Texas toast” is “dipped in egg batter, breaded, then deep fried golden brown.” The sweet potatoes fries were billowy with a lovely light texture and seasoned perfectly.

4 IMG_2111

The Head Chef of the restaurant, Eric, was taking a break and took a seat next to me at the bar.  Joanne, who is married to Eric, explained that they had recently moved to the area from Detroit to help start the restaurant.  Since the age of fifteen, they have both been working in restaurants which is where they met Chris and Cassie Campbell, co-owners of The Merchant House. Joanne is also a talented baker opening up her own business, the Delightfully Decadent Bakery while Eric enjoys creating new recipes exploring unique flavor combinations.  Many of his creations are listed on the menu.

5 IMG_2113

I had the opportunity to take some photographs of the restaurant, pay my bill and exchanged contact information with Eric and Joanne.  Eric was kind enough to introduce me to Cassie and her family and I thanked them for their  hospitality, wishing them great success.  I know that I will be making a return visit and can’t wait to try the restaurant’s Chicago-style pizza, which will be added to the menu next month.

Have you had the opportunity to visit The Merchant House in Greenville?  What menu item did you choose?  I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave your comments below.  Many thanks for reading about my delightful dining experience at The Merchant House and wishing you many Happy Travels!

I would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Eric and Joanne for their generous hospitality and time during my visit at the Merchant House.  Please note that all comments and opinions are my own.

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

Where to Eat:

The Merchant House
406 South Broadway
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone:  937 459 4405

Where to Drink: 

Kennedy Vineyard
3911 State Route 722
New Madison, OH  45346
Telephone:  937 273 8381

Where to Stay:

The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH  45380
Telephone:  937 526 3020

6 IMG_2116

Jungle Jim’s International Market, Fairfield, Ohio

To describe Jungle Jim’s as an “International Food Lovers’ Paradise!” is more than accurate and may quite well be understated.

The parking lot was packed as I arrived at the supermarket’s flagship location in Fairfield, Ohio.  Not quite sure what to expect, I was happy to have picked up a map because this place is ginormous.  With my shopping cart, I began my trek through over 150,000 worldwide product and was happy to try some samples as well.  I could have easily spent hours browsing the aisles, sorting through all of the fabulous merchandise and produce.

Greeted by a talking corn stalk, I would soon learn that the entertaining displays are as much a part of the experience of Jungle Jim’s as exploring the superstore and its endless grocery items.

3 IMG_6459

Bearing towards the right,  I passed the pharmacy and American grocery aisles.  I soon arrived at the delicatessen where I found several stands displaying a wide variety of snacks.  Attendants were distributing samples of organic crackers topped with brie cheese and fig jam. I found myself adding these items to my cart for my next get-together with friends.

4 IMG_6460

I selected a few dairy products from Greece and Italy to create a charcuterie board to enjoy later that afternoon.   I also selected a variety of cheeses from England, Ireland and Australia.

5 IMG_6464

What’s a charcuterie board without wine?  The wine and beer “wing” of the market is stocked with spirits from all over the world that at first glance, I was a bit overwhelmed.  The wine representatives at Jungle Jim’s are more than helpful to help visitors find the best wines in their price range based on the wine that interest them.

Nearby was a liquor store, a humidor and a tasting bar.  There is not much that Jungle Jim’s does not offer and who wouldn’t mind a glass of wine while shopping for groceries?

6 IMG_6461

This is not just the average grocery store wine selection.  There are aisles and aisles of wines from Argentina to South Africa, clearly marked by country.

7 IMG_6463

One of my favorite areas of wine to explore is the local vintages where I stocked up on a few bottles from my favorite Ohio wineries.

8 IMG_6462

The beer selection is just as impressive.  I had a great time shopping for a few international beers to enjoy throughout the week.  Each aisle is clearly marked by country and local beers making it easy for me to find the brands I wanted to sample.

Jungle Jim’s also has a tasting room where visitors can sample a pre-selected list of wines and beers for a minimal charge.  I ordered a couple of samples and then a glass of wine, that I could drink as I continued shopping.

9 IMG_6472

I passed the beer cave and restrooms heading away from the beer and wine until I arrived at the bakery.  With so many selections, I decided to pick up some cannolis and macaroons.

10 IMG_6473

The desserts seemed to continue on into eternity.  In addition to Jungle Jim-made sweets, there are local selections from some of the best bakeries in Cincinnati.

11 IMG_6477

The meat counter offers fresh cuts of meat or packaged items that include some exotic cuts of beef.  One of my favorite areas of the market is the International produce where fruits and vegetables are imported from all over the world.

12 IMG_6479

Where else can you find Durian fruit in the state of Ohio?

13 IMG_6480

To the left of the International Produce section which includes such items as bok choy, chili peppers, yucca, etc., there are several rows of freezers and shelving units that display Asian foods and spices.

14 IMG_6481

From Japanese to Balinese, Chinese to Taiwanese, there is no shortage of cooking items for making some of the best Asian dishes.

15 IMG_6483

I couldn’t wait to explore the seafood area.  Jungle Jim’s is one of the rare markets that carries sushi-grade tuna.  I was also able to find lobster, oysters as well as a selection of local fish.

16 IMG_6487

Once I had taken in the smells of the seafood and said goodbye to the lobster, I arrived at a large fire truck  showcasing a never ending supply of hot sauce.

17 IMG_6488 (2)

Germany is to my right and further down the aisle is a great selection of cookware and gadgets.  From here, I could see Sherwood Forest representing the foods of Great Britain.  I picked up some Twinings Tea and proceeded past the Hispanic section towards the aisles of Italy.

18 IMG_6489

In the market for a couple of great pasta sauces, the Jungle Jim’s representative suggested a local option, so I grabbed one off of the shelf and began making my way towards the check out line.

19 IMG_6497

Within minutes I was home and ready to open one of my bottles of wine after a long day of shopping.  I had such an amazing experience at Jungle Jim’s and couldn’t wait to make a few new dishes from the ingredients I had just purchased.  Removing a pad and pen from the kitchen drawer, I began a new list of items to purchase for another visit I planned for the next weekend.

Jungle Jim’s International Market first opened its doors as a permanent fruit and vegetable market in 1975.  From its humble beginnings in a 4,200 square foot complex to a 6-acre megastore, Jungle Jim’s also provides a variety of additional services to its customers including banking, pharmacy, post office, jewelers, hair dressers and restaurants to name a few.

Have you visited Jungle Jim’s or experienced an international Superstore?  I would love to hear about your experience so leave your comments below!  Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Jungle Jim’s International Market
5440 Dixie Highway
Fairfield OH, 45014
Telephone:  513 674 6000

Jungle Jim’s International Market – Eastgate location
4450 Eastgate South Drive
Cincinnati, OH  45245
Telephone:  513 674 6000

  • Hours:  Daily from 8AM to 8PM;  Holiday Hours – Easter: 8AM to 8PM, Thanksgiving:  8AM to 5PM, Christmas Eve:  8AM to 6PM, Christmas Day:  Closed, New Year’s Eve:  8AM to 8PM,  New Year’s Day:  8AM to 8PM
  • Amenities:  worldwide merchandise, guided tours, cooking classes, events, wine tastings
  • Length of Visit:  Minimum 1 hour
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Pick up a map of the venue; plan on at least a couple of hours if you want to explore the whole store. check out the website for upcoming events and cooking classes, arrive on Saturdays and Sundays for samples, and visit Monday through Friday to avoid the large crowds.

Where to Stay:

Holiday Inn Express Fairfield
6755 Fairfield Business, Joyce Park Drive
Fairfield, OH  45014
Telephone:  513 860 2900

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cincinnati Eastgate
4521 Eastgate Blvd.,
Cincinnati, OH  45245
Telephone:  513 947 9402

Where to Eat:

Acapulco
5953 Boymel Drive
Fairfield, OH  45015
Telephone:  513 874 5777

I ordered the Hot & Spicy Burrito filled with refried beans, ground beef, shredded chicken and rice, topped with supreme sauce and sour cream.

BanThai

792 Eastgate S Drive
Cincinnati, OH  45245
Telephone:  513 752 3200

The Bento Boxes for lunch are the best deal priced at only $10.95 served with salad, spring roll, crab rangoon, fruit, and lo mein noodles or rice. So far, I have tried Box Number 3 (spicy tuna roll and 3 pieces of a California roll), Box Number 4 (Shrimp Tempura roll and 3 pieces of a California Roll), and Box Number 15 (Grilled 4 chicken satay). They are made fresh and extremely filling.

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.

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.

More photos

20 IMG_6466

The Cigar Room

21 IMG_6470

International Cheese

22 IMG_6471

My Favorite  Cheese!  Feta!

2 IMG_6458

1 IMG_6456

Brewfontaine….The Tap of Ohio

IMG_7563

Craft beer has made quite an impact on the state of Ohio over the past few years.  With approximately 120 breweries currently in the state, beer lovers may find it difficult to visit each one of them, even over the span of a year.  So why not visit a taproom where you can try a large selection of local brews all under one roof?  And so was the concept for Brewfontaine.  During a recent visit, I had the pleasure of meeting one of the owners, Brian Wall, who is passionate about his new venture which recently opened in November of 2015.

“A lot of thought went into the planning of Brewfontaine,” says Brian. “The process took us about three  to four years.  We knew we wanted to open a place where people could try Ohio craft beers as well as ales from surrounding states.”  The restaurant and bar has nearly 40 craft beers available at a given time by the bottle or on tap.  The selection changes often, so this gives patrons more than one reason to visit to try new local brews.  Visitors can also purchase half gallon growlers to fill up with one of their favorite craft beers to enjoy at home.

In addition to all of the planning that went into opening the restaurant, there was also the challenge of its renovation.  Brian and his co-owners happened upon prime location in downtown Bellefontaine where historical Johnson’s Restaurant once stood.  It had been a well-known eatery for residents in the 1950s but was abandoned about twenty years later, leaving it in major disrepair.   According to Brian, there was extensive damage to the building and all that remained was the interior wall and the Ladies Room sign….even the floor was gone.  With a design in mind and with the magic of local real estate developer, Jason Duff, the building was brought up to code and transformed into the artistic industrial design that it is today.

Although Brewfontaine’s focus is bringing quality brews to its customers, what else makes Brewfontaine such a popular place?  The restaurant and bar also serves Wine on Tap and top shelf liquor for high class drinks.  And from the stellar reviews online, there is also the menu which includes simple starters, savory soups, delectable salads and sandwiches served with their signature house-made IPA pickles.  The restaurant employs a culinary chef, so many of the items on the menu are homemade.

IMG_7564

During my visit, I decided to try a flight of five and, with the suggestion of Micki, my server (and Brian’s wife), ordered the Greek Salad as well.   And it wasn’t just ANY salad, it was loaded with olives, feta cheese, red onion, tomatoes, croutons, pepperoncini and peppers.  The ingredients were so fresh and I honestly had a difficult time finishing it, but it tasted so amazing that I couldn’t put my fork down.

IMG_7565

I will admit that I am not a beer connoisseur, but I am always up for trying new brews.  So my flight of beers arrived and I started from left to right.  First I tried Barley’s Scottish Ale which originates from Columbus, Ohio, Barley’s Brewing Company.

At first glance this craft beer, Boulevard 80 Acre, looks more like lemonade than an ale.  My take on the wheat ale is that it was very light with a slight hoppy aftertaste giving the Indian Pale Ale a run for its money.

IMG_7568

I have now moved on to beer number three and I have selected the Ei8ht Ball Tarnished, really because I liked the name of the ale. Ei8ht Ball Brewing is located just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati in the small town of Bellevue, Kentucky.

My number four selection was based on the fact that Sierra Nevada was probably the first beer I tried outside of the Budweiser family.  I wasn’t sure how I would like the IPA, but even though it was a little hoppy, I could smell the tropical fruit and it reminded me of the Sierra Nevada beer I have come to love.

IMG_7570

I have come down to my final selection and decided on Wyder’s Pear Cider.  I have to admit that it almost looks like a two drink glass of chardonnay, but quickly realize at the first taste that it is a sassy cider, with an amazing smell of pears.

Ordering the flight of beers is definitely the most fun way to experience craft beers.  With such a wide selection, I could come back several times to try another flight or two.  And of course, Brewfontaine makes it so easy for craft beer lovers to keep up to date with its beer menu and to know what brands will be coming to the restaurant in the near future.   Just download the BeerMenus app, set up an account and search for Brewfontaine.  Make sure you select them as a restaurant to follow and you will be able to track the information for yourself.   But don’t try to log in while you are at Brewfontaine, with a focus on Eat, Drink and Be Social, they prefer that you make a few friends while you are in town.

Being a new business, what does the future hold for Brewfontaine?  Of course there will always be the opportunity to add new craft beers to the list or make changes to the menu, but I also learned from Brian that there are plans underway to expand and enclose the patio adding an additional 30+ seats to the restaurant.   That is quite a successful accomplishment having only been open for a few months.

But if I had my opinion, it would be that the success of Brewfontaine is the passion that Brian and the owners have for the bar and restaurant.  Brian, who is formerly a surveyor, knows a thing or two about beer.  He started his own home brewing which has helped him understand the process and then put himself through college to strengthen his business skills.  The owners take so much pride in the restaurant that even the employees are required to submit a resume making the extra effort to show their interest in becoming a part of the Brewfontaine family.

But the enthusiasm doesn’t stop with Brian…if you are lucky enough to meet his wife, Micki, you can’t help but feel her heartfelt excitement for her husband’s business as well.  So don’t be surprised if she happens to take your order.  It’s a group effort and everyone is available to pitch in to make Brewfontaine a success.

Brewfontaine is located at 211 South Main Street in Bellefontaine, Ohio 43311.  Check out their informative website at brewfontaine.com for a current drink list, menu and live music schedule.  You can also provide your email address for news and updates about the restaurant.

I had such a great time trying out some Ohio brews at Brewfontaine. I would like to thank Brian and Micki Wall for their time and hospitality extended to me during my visit.  Please note that all comments provided were based solely upon my own opinions and experience.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Brewfontaine?  I would love to hear about your experience, so kindly leave your comments below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Brewfontaine and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and Do:

Brewfontaine
211 S. Main Street
Bellefontaine, OH  43311
Telephone:   937 404 9128

Where to Eat:

Brewfontaine
211 S. Main Street
Bellefontaine, OH  43311
Telephone:   937 404 9128

Brewfontaine is known for their Signature Pretzels served with a sweet pepper mustard. Beer cheese is available for an additional fee.  The Greek Salad is loaded with ingredients and the filling Grilled Reuben is absolutely spectacular.

Where to Stay:

The Cabins at Maple Grove
5040 OH-29
Urbana, OH 43078
Telephone: 937 620 4952

Where to Drink:

Brewfontaine
211 S. Main Street
Bellefontaine, OH  43311
Telephone:   937 404 9128

Check Brewfontaine’s website prior to visiting for a list of beers or follow them on BeerMenus for future brews.

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