Tag Archives: Springfield

Things to Do in Ohio in the Month of July

As the summer heats up, enjoy some time outside with some of these fine ideas for exploring Ohio in the month of July.

 

Things to Do in Ohio in the Month of March

The Historical Simon Kenton Inn in Springfield, Ohio

Growing up in Springfield, I was well aware of several historical names associated with my town.  From George Rogers Clark to Shawnee chief, Tecumseh, one name stands out in the history of our city, Simon Kenton.

Friend to Daniel Boone, Kenton traveled to Ohio from Virginia and settled on 50,000 acres of land between today’s Springfield and Urbana.   Building a cabin on the outskirts of Springfield, his former property is now the Simon Kenton Inn and was the first white settlement in the state.

As a result of financial hardship, Simon would lose the land, passing it down to the McCord family in the early 1800s.  In 1828, the land was divided into parcels and sold.  The Hunt family, having made their wealth in textiles, moved from Princeton, NJ and settled on land they had purchased from the McCords.

Katie had taken my reservation and kindly greeted me when I arrived.  I decided to visit on Wine Wednesday with $1 off glasses of wine and found a great wine that would pair nicely with my meal.  I ordered the High Note, a Malbec with cassis and raspberry fruit flavors with a touch of chocolate and sweet spice.  Reservations are highly recommended for Fridays and Saturdays, where waits can take up to thirty minutes.

The Inn offers live music on certain weeknights and weekends.  Enjoying the music and the beautifully restored historic home, I was introduced to current owner, Theresa Siejack.  Energetic and passionate about her new adventure, Theresa was eager to talk about Simon Kenton Inn and her life experiences that led her here.

The house had been empty for three years.  There were lots of potholes on the road and many trees were down.  There was only one lit candle in the window.

Because of the holidays, Theresa was unable to go inside of the home until mid-January but as soon as she was able to visit, she made an offer within 10 minutes.  At the time of purchase, the housing market was doing well and she was able to secure the money for the purchase. With no inspection, she purchased this dilapidated old house on four acres for 250,000.  She had a vision, becoming the third owner of this property.

Originally from Baltimore, Theresa’s parents died when she was young and she was raised by her grandparents until they too passed.  Brought up in foster homes, she would marry young and join the Air Force as a flight nurse.  She retired after thirty years and one day, realizing she wanted to run a bed and breakfast.

With plans to stay in Ohio, she found her first opportunity in South Charleston and later decided that she wanted to make a home in Clark County.  Driving on the outskirts of Springfield with a friend on a cold and rainy day in December, Theresa noticed that the property was for sale.

My meal had arrived and it was absolutely delicious selecting the pistachio crusted salmon and cheesy risotto.

I was happy to continue our conversation as Theresa detailed the defining moment when she knew she had to purchase this  beautiful place.  She explained that in between the process of signing the papers and meeting for the official close,  she would drive up to the property to watch the sunset and enjoy the view from atop of the hill.  One morning, she noticed a woman on the property who was throwing feathers in the air as if conducting a ritual of some sort.  Theresa went to meet with this mysterious woman.  What the woman would say, was a foretelling of Theresa’s ownership of Simon Kenton Inn.

This woman stated that Theresa was going to be the next owner of the house, just as the spirits had told her.  She mentioned Simon Kenton’s Indian name and explained that she, herself, was a descendent of the Shawnee.  Theresa knew that this was the confirmation she needed and thanked Barbara for her visit. They would become long friends and Barbara would be able to provide additional information about the property and its role in the lives of the Kenton and Hunt families.  Barbara was also instrumental in developing the logo.

Theresa mentioned that when she cleared the attic of the home, she found wooden crates with the name Ischy Hunt, who was part of the Hunt family.  They were most likely used to carry their belongings for the east all the way out to this area in Ohio.

The property had a barn towards the back, but it was falling apart and she felt it could potentially be a hazard as children liked to go back to check it out.  She had it imploded and the remains were buried in the spot where it once stood. During construction, Theresa lived above the kitchen and there were loft rooms above the laundry as well.

In 2005, the property underwent a 1.1 million dollar renovation and an expansion was added in 2009.  A breezeway was later built to connect the two.

Recently the Inn hosted a Craft Beer and Wine event during their anniversary where 160 people attended. With 52 wines and 27 craft beers from 7 Ohio wineries and 12 Ohio breweries, the event was a huge success.

The inn is also a popular wedding venue with a large, covered seating area, gorgeous setting for photographs and overnight accommodations.

Theresa has big plans for Simon Kenton Inn to include further expansion and more events.  I’m looking forward to seeing what she  has in store for this, beautiful, historic place where the spirit of the Indians still roam.

Have you visited Simon Kenton Inn?  Did you enjoy a meal here?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my dinner and discussion with Theresa at Simon Kenton Inn and wishing you many Happy Travels.

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

What to Do and What to See:

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH  45502
Telephone:  937 399 9950

Where to Stay:

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH  45502
Telephone:  937 399 9950

Where to Eat:

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH  45502
Telephone:  937 399 9950

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: 

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

Snyder Park in Springfield, Ohio

On sunny Sunday afternoons, our family would pack a picnic lunch for a visit to Snyder Park.  With plenty of of picnic tables, we loved finding the best location near the water where we could watch the geese and ducks. After lunch, we would walk along the river or stop by one of the locations to swing before going back home for the evening.

Snyder Park was a generous donation of land that was held by a group of local millers.  They held the title for land measuring over 1000 acres within Clark County.  It was their desire to donate 217 acres to be designated as a park for the locals to enjoy.

With the help of landscape architect, Herman Haerlin, the park opened in 1897, just a couple of years later.  The city inaugurated the park with a parade on April 22nd and named it Snyder Park in honor of John and David.     Two granite stones on the west side of the park commemorate the Snyder brother’s contribution.  Later, in 1902, a stone arch was built as an additional entrance into the park.

In the earlier days, a section of the park was designated as a Par 3 golf course and was a favorite among the locals.  Today, the clubhouse stands as an administrative building for the park.

The tennis courts were perfect for summer lessons and many of the courts have been converted to pickleball courts.

Of course, my favorite memories are visiting the beautiful lagoons to feed bread to the ducks and the geese,

 Crossing the old stone bridge,

Watching the sun set along its shores,

and swinging along the water’s edge.

Since my childhood, there have been several updates and additions to the park, such as the Centennial Playground, which is ADA accessible.

There is also an adorable “Central Bark Dog Park”, a safe place for pups to run about….

and beautiful gardens.

Snyder Park is one of Springfield’s largest parks and a beautiful addition to the city.  With additional activities of white water rafting and a sprayground, the park continues to expand with wonderful activities for the whole family.

Have you visited Snyder Park in Springfield, Ohio?  What were some of your favorite activities at the park?  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 Snyder Park in Springfield and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Snyder Park
1900 Park Street
Springfield, OH  45504
Telephone: 937 328 7275

Where to Eat:

Dairy Queen
721 North Bechtle
Springfield, OH 45206
Telephone: 937 325-9572

Where to Stay:

Marriott Courtyard, Springfield
100 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH  45502
Telephone:  (937) 322-3600

Guerra’s Crazy Tacos: Springfield, Ohio

Since Guerra’s Crazy Tacos first opened in Springfield, Ohio, it has drawn visitors from all over the state of Ohio and beyond.  Known for its unique taco combinations, this brightly colored, boutique restaurant is the place for a unique twist on Mexican cuisine.

Drawing on recipes from his San Antonio roots, Felix Guerra III doesn’t shy away from fascinating culinary combos such as cabbage and candied ginger, teriyaki sauce and pineapple, or toppings to include BBQ sauce or jerk seasoning.  Each taco creation is written on the black board and changes from time to time, leaving you wanting to return to Guerra’s to taste his next invention.

The Sugar Skull artwork makes for a beautiful interior.  From the wall art to the tables and chairs, this symbol known for its remembrance of loved ones who have passed denoting the passing from the physical to the spiritual. It is also a reminder that our lives must be fully lived.

Starting with some chips and green salsa, it was the perfect distraction from my grumbling stomach anticipating the triple order of Sweet Lucy, Asian Ginger and the traditional taco.  I also couldn’t resist their spicy margarita.

I savored each bite and slowly enjoyed my margarita, tempted to purchase a couple of additional combos.  In the end, I decided it would not be the best idea and I could always return for more.  Besides, since it has been named one of Business Insider’s top places to order tacos, let’s hope they will be here for a very long time.

Have you visited Guerra’s Krazy Taco?  I would love to hear about your experience and what you ordered if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Guerra’s Krazy Taco and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Guerra’s Krazy Tacos
229 N. Belmont Avenue
Springfield, OH  45503
Telephone:  937 325 0799

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 399 9950

Where to Eat:

Guerra’s Krazy Tacos
229 N. Belmont Avenue
Springfield, OH  45503
Telephone:  937 325 0799

What to Eat:

Tacos, Tacos and More Tacos!

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.
  • 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.

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

Lunch at Teaberry’s, Springfield, Ohio

Update:  As of December 26, 2022, Teaberry’s and Heart of Ohio Gift Shop has closed. 

Restaurants can bring on a nostalgic feeling and I felt that as I entered Teaberry’s in Springfield.  I remembered visiting craft stores when I was younger and vividly recollected the menu of home-cooked meals.  I was so happy to be visiting here again to try some of the cooking that reminded me of my favorite lunches we shared at my Grandmother’s house.

We were seated straightaway and our server took our drink order.  It was a hot sunny day in my hometown and so I ordered the lemonade, trying to decide on what I would have for lunch.

Once I had decided on the chicken salad sandwich with cauliflower salad, I took time to read the historical account of Teaberry’s learning that the restaurant had once been a two-room schoolhouse in Clark County, built in 1868.  It later became a home, a gift shop and the restaurant was added in 1998.  Today, Teaberry’s has expanded by adding five rooms to accommodate up to 120 guests.

The serving of chicken salad was overflowing from the perfectly baked croissant, lightly toasted with a think layer of butter.  The broccoli salad was dressed with a sweet and salad dressing, which was absolutely delicious.

Of course I had to save room for their famous “orange cakes”, which were moist and full of flavor.  Completely full, we had time to shop  and found a few items to decorate my home and gifts for the upcoming holiday.   I’m not sure which I had enjoyed more…the lunch or the shopping, but both were quite enjoyable.

Have you visited Teaberry’s in Springfield?  What was your experience and did you eat and shop?  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 lunch and shopping at Teaberry’s and wishing you many Happy Travels.

What to See and What to Do:

Heart of Country Gift Shop
1600 Leffel Lane
Springfield, OH  45505

Where to Eat:

Teaberry’s
1600 Leffel Lane
Springfield, OH 45505

What to Eat:

  • Chicken Salad
  • Reuben Sandwich
  • Orange Cake

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Westcott House in Springfield, Ohio

Updated September 13, 2024

IMG_6330 (2)

Frank Lloyd Wright is credited with designing over four hundred homes, commercial buildings and other works to include The Westcott House located in Springfield, Ohio.  An architect with a vision beyond his time, Mr. Wright’s designs and influence have made him one of the most famous architects in the world.  The Prairie-style home was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright for Burton and Orpha Westcott, completed in 1908.   After many years of decline, the home was purchased by The Westcott House Foundation in 2000 and a $5.8 million dollar renovation ensued.  From the restoration to the home’s structure and architecture, the foundation has also focused on bringing back the furniture and restoring the gardens during the time of the Westcotts.  The masterpiece was opened to the public for tours beginning in 2005.

As visitors enter the museum through a side entrance from Greenmount Street, they will find a gift shop as well as a small cinema in the area of the home that was once the garage.  The Visitor’s Center displays various items that showcase the architectural designs of Frank Lloyd Wright and are available for purchase.  The tour was led by docent Mary Ellen who provided a thorough overview of The Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright as well as the Westcott family.

Having moved from Richmond, Indiana, Burton Westcott became a prominent resident of Springfield due to his successful career in the automobile industry.  It would be his wife, Orpha, having come upon the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright, who would commission him to design and build their home.  Jeanne, the oldest of the two Westcott children, lived here until her marriage to Richard Rodgers.  John, born in Springfield in 1903, would live in Italy to attend Montessori School for his education and return home until his parent’s passing in the 1920s.   At the time of Orpha’s untimely, tragic death, Burton’s automobile business was in decline. His attempt to save the failing venture would be unsuccessful and lead to a decline in his health resulting in his death in 1926.

The Westcott House is considered one of Wright’s most significant homes as it was designed after Wright’s visit to Japan.  There are various features in the residence from its furniture to the light fixtures that suggest this Japanese influence.   With a total of sixteen rooms, the home was built to accommodate the Westcott’s love of entertaining.  From its exceptional living room and fireplace to its exquisite dining area, the blueprint also included a reception space for receiving their guests.

Throughout the home, Wright’s emphasis on drawing one’s eye to a horizontal perspective is exhibited by the skylight and dining room.  From the stonework to the fireplace to the chimney, there is beauty in Wright’s use of organic architecture referred to as Wright’s First Golden Age, a style which ran from around 1893 to 1910.  Wright’s Prairie-style construction of the Walcott House is very similar to the Robie House in Chicago.

There are so many exciting aspects of The Westcott that one finds intriguing to include the use of cantilevered overhangs applied to the low-pitched roof of this home. From the French doors that lead to the pergola to the wrap around windows, Wright consistently incorporates the use of natural light and nature to the interior of his architecture and designs as seen in the earth tones and textures exhibited throughout the home.

Wright had a love for the dramatic.  While the living spaces were more modest, it was the public, entertaining spaces that were the focal point of the home and the most fascinating.  Built in bookcases, seating around the fireplace and a buffet are some of the features of The Westcott House that showcase his incredible talent.   The design of the dining room table is also somewhat intriguing.  At each corner, Wright included a tower-like lighting structure to increase illumination to the room.

The tour ended in the garden of the home where the metal works and awnings of the exterior could be explored.   The gardens are beautiful in the spring and summer when the flowers are in bloom.  It would have been a perfect outdoor space for the Westcott children.

A visit to The Westcott House includes a guided tour of the public spaces of the home such as the library, the family room and the dining room.  The private living quarters include the kitchen and pantry, the maids’ rooms, Burton and Orpha’s bedrooms, closet space and powder rooms as well as the rooms of John and Jeanne, the Westcott Children.

The Westcott House is located in Springfield, Ohio on the corner of Greenmount Avenue and High Street.  You can find the location on your GPS by entering 85 South Greenmount Avenue, Springfield, OH 45504.  There is plenty of visitor parking on Greenmount.

Have you visited one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s properties?  I would love to hear about your experience, so leave a message in the comments section below.  Happy Travels!

If you would like more information about Frank Lloyd Wright, you can also check out artsy.net/artist/frank-lloyd-wright.

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

What to See and What to Do:

The Westcott House
85 S. Greenmount Ave.
Springfield, OH  45505
Telephone:  937 327 9291

  • Admission Fee:  Adults:  $18 and $15 for Seniors.  Free for school groups and Westcott Members.
  • Hours:  Museum:  Tuesday through Saturday from 11AM to 5PM; Sunday from 1PM to 5PM.  Closed on the following holidays:  New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, Easter, 4th of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
  • Guided Tours:  This Frank Lloyd Wright home requires a guided tour to explore the property:  January – March:  Tuesday to Friday at 11AM, 1PM and 3PM;  Saturday at 11AM, 12PM, 1PM, 2PM, 3PM and 4PM;    Sunday at 1PM, 2PM, 3PM and 4PM     From April – December:  Tuesday to Saturday at 11AM, 1PM and 3PM;  Sunday at 1PM and 3PM
  • Amenities:  Bookstore and gift shop, guided tours, video presentation
  • Length of Visit:  1 – 2 hours
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Photography is NOT permitted inside of The Westcott House.

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: 

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

NTPRD Chiller: Springfield, Ohio’s First Ice Skating Rink

On a hot summer day, I had the idea to escape the heat by visiting the NTPRD Chiller in downtown Springfield, Ohio.  A complex that is a part of the City’s Parks and Recreation’s program, the ice rink also has a partnership with the Chiller Organization, associated with Columbus’ professional hockey team, the Blue Jackets.

I had the opportunity to talk with Chris, who explained that the rink sustains temperatures between 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit so that they can maintain an ice thickness of 1 ½ inches. I While the rink is regulation National Hockey League (NHL) size, it is smaller than an Olympic rink.

The Chiller provides several children’s programs for children starting at the age of two years old and in addition, they host adult leagues as well.

Founded in 1993, the NTPRD Chiller is Springfield’s first indoor ice skating arena.  The location is the perfect place to host birthday parties by renting out the mezzanine when the space is available.   Wittenberg University and Wright State University’s hockey teams use the rink for practice, college games while high school programs are beginning to offer team sports here as well.  Last year the organization hosted a cardboard bobsled competition where there were lose to fifty participants.

There are several opportunities for visitors to register for freestyle and public skate sessions when space is available.  All visitors must register online and until further notice, visitors are required to wear masks due to COVID.

Skate rental are available for a small fee with a selection of over 800 pairs of skates.  Sizes start at children’s 6 and they are also available for purchase through stores such as MC Sports, Dunhams and Dick’s Sporting Goods.

NTPRD offers hot dogs and Mother Stewart’s root beer at their refreshment stand for that much needed break off of the ice.  So if you are looking for a great way to cool down in the summer, or sharpen your skating skills year around, check out NTPRD in Springfield, Ohio.  Their online calendar provides a schedule for skating times, lessons and hockey games to cheer on your favorite teams.

Have you skated at the NTPRD Chiller?  How was your experience?  I would love to hear about your time spent at Springfield’s first ice rink if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Thank you for reading about my fun visit to The Chiller and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

NTPRD Chiller
301 West Main Street
Springfield, Ohio 45504
Telephone:  937 323 RINK (7465)

  • Admission Fee:  Admission $5 and Skate Rental $2; kids 5 and under are free.
  • Hours:  Check out the Freestyle hours on their website
  • Amenities:  Skate rental, snack bar, hockey leagues and ice skating classes
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Book your reservations online.  Wear a sweater or jacket if you plan on spending more time at the rink.

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: 

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

A Photographic Review of My 2017 Travel Blogs

I have had so much fun writing about my many travels that took place in 2017 and past travel as well.  Here is an overview of my blog posts for this past year.  Don’t forget to select the link to check out more photos and additional information regarding each attraction.  Enjoy!

Indonesia:  Bali

Kuta Beach

An Evening Stroll Along Kuta Beach

North Bali

Ulun Danu Temple:  The Most Photographed Temple in Bali

Mexico:  Cabo San Lucas

El Arco in Cabo San Lucas

Mexico:  Mazatlan

The Port of Mazatlan, Mexico

Mexico:  Puerto Vallarta

A Port Day in Puerto Vallarta

Turkey: Istanbul

Hagia Sophia

DSC_2204, hagia Sophia

The Facade of the Hagia Sophia

United States:  Arizona

The Grand Canyon

The Colorado River Runs Through the Grand Canyon

Montezuma Castle National Monument

Indian Settlement at Montezuma Castle National Monument

The Painted Desert

The Spectacular Colors of the Painted Desert

Rawhide

Rawhide, Arizona

United States:  California

San Diego

Spectacular California Sunset

Sebastiani

An Amazing Visit to Sebastiani

Viansa Winery

Acres of Vineyards in Sonoma, California

United States:  Colorado

The Rocky Mountains

Camping in the Rocky Mountains

United States:  Louisiana

Mardi Gras

Celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans

New Orleans:  Black & White Photos

The Old Absinthe Bar

United States:  Ohio

The Farm Restaurant in Adena

Enjoying a Fabulous Dinner at The Farm

The Merchant House

Enjoying a Fabulous Dinner at the Merchant House

The Old Arcana Restaurant

The Bourbon Praline French Toast

Cincinnati:  National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Columbus: Inniswood

Having Fun with my New Camera

Columbus:  Ohio Village

Celebrating 100 Years of Beatrix Potter at Ohio Village 

Springfield:

Farmer’s Market

The Historical Springfield Farmer’s Market

Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright

The Westcott House

Clifton Mill Lights at Christmas

Gorgeous Holiday Lights in Clifton

Ohio Wineries:

Bardwell Winery

Brandeberry Winery

Hafle Winery

Knotty Vines Winery

Meranda Nixon Winery

Plum Run Winery

United States:  Tennessee

Nashville’s Belle Meade Plantation

Belle Meade Plantation in Nashville

United States:  Washington DC

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery

United States:  West Virginia

New River Gorge

Floating down the Lower Gauley at the New River Gorge

I hope you enjoyed checking out all of my travels and post-related photos for 2017! I look forward to seeing what 2018 brings! Happy New Year!

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A Mocha Moment at Coffee Expressions

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I spent the day with my brother and his family in my hometown of Springfield, Ohio.  It was early in the morning so I found a cute little coffee shop to catch up on my latest issue of Ohio Magazine and to check my emails.   Once I walked through the door, I was greeted by a charming barista, surrounded by the amazing scent of coffee.

I ordered my café mocha with skim milk looking forward to the whipped cream and chocolate syrup.  I found a nice warm spot in the sun, opened my magazine and listed the events I wanted to attend the next month.  The atmosphere soon began to pick up as the local regulars lined up to place their order before starting workday.

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Behind the counter is one of the friendliest baristas I have ever met.  She greeted each visitor by name and confirmed their orders  before reaching the register.  She discussed with them their upcoming vacations and inquired about their families.  She kindly carried on conversations with her regulars while carefully making their orders as I watched the large group that had formed only minutes ago finally disappear in a matter of minutes.

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I was distracted at times by the early morning news but couldn’t help but eavesdrop on all of the interesting conversations.  As each patron exited the door, the line continued to grow until about 8:30 AM and then the barista cleaned the machines in preparation for the next coffee rush wish shortly arrived before 9.

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What I really admired about Coffee Expressions, is that in addition to the café mocha, they also provide visitors with free Wifi.   I am always looking for a spot to catch up on my travel research and enjoy the convenience of connecting online.

There is a great selection of tables, chairs and comfortable couches for catching up on the latest news or relaxing with a cup of coffee.  I also noticed a small retail area where handcrafted coffees, travel mugs and a selection of oats were available for breakfast.

I flipped to the last page of my magazine while taking my last drink of coffee and while I gathered my belongings, the friendly barista bids me farewell by name.  I smiled and wished her a great day, wondering if she would remember me and my order on my return visit.  I wouldn’t be surprised.

Do you have a favorite coffee shop that you frequent in the morning?  I would love to hear about it if you would kindly leave your experience in the comments section below!  Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Coffee Expressions
1111 N. Plum Street, Suite 1
Springfield, OH  45504
Telephone: 937 323 5282

From Monday through Friday, Coffee Expressions is open from 6:05AM until 8PM and on Saturdays and Sundays from 8AM to 8PM.

Where to Stay:

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

Where to Eat:

Mike and Rosie’s Deli
330 W. McCreight Avenue
Springfield, OH  45504
Telephone:  937 390 3511

Hands down, my favorite menu item and Mike and Rosie’s is their Reuben Sandwich…don’t forget to add the chips and pickle!