Posts from March 2018
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March
31
31
11 Things to do in Columbus in Spring 2018 | Festivals, Music + More!
The weather is warm, the flowers are blooming, and everything looks just a little more bright and colorful. Spring is in full swing in Columbus, and while we're tackling our latest spring cleaning chores and getting some sun on our faces, we're also looking forward to exploring our town during this gorgeous season.
From concerts and productions to foodie events and floral showcases, there is so much going on in the area. So get out of the house and put a little spring in your step with these local events and seasonal attractions.
Skip ahead to your preferred activity:
March
30
30
The 10 Best Public Golf Courses in Cincinnati, Mapped
Cincinnati's gently rolling terrain and wide-open land make it the perfect destination for golfers from all over the region to come and play a round of 18. The area is home to an assortment of high-quality, inexpensive public golf courses that cater to golf enthusiasts of all skill levels — each offering fun challenges, picturesque scenery and friendly staff members. Of course, there is no wrong answer when it comes to finding a good course in the area, but there are a few that stand apart from the rest.
We've rounded up 10 golf courses in Cincinnati that are better than par. Whether you're a visitor looking to brush up on your game or a local looking for a fun day out on the green, we're sure you'll be scheduling your next tee time in no time.
Aston Oaks Golf Club
1 Aston Oaks Drive, North Bend Aston Oaks Golf Club is one of the area's most notoriously popular courses. The greens are fast and true, the obstacles are challenging (and yet, not unconquerable), and the course is always kept in great shape. Additionally, GPS on the carts helps speed up gameplay for an all-around smooth and hassle-free experience!Blue Ash Golf Course
4040 Cooper Road, Blue Ash The greens at Blue Ash Golf Course are always in pristine condition and boast a unique variety of challenges — including speedy fairways, hills and water hazards! It's the perfect course for a casual afternoon game, and offers plenty of opportunities to practice those long putts. Additionally, the staff always receives stellar reviews and will go out of their way to make your round a memorable experience.Hickory Woods Golf Course
1240 Hickory Woods Drive, Loveland
Photo courtesy of the Hickory Woods Golf Course
The Hickory Woods Golf Course caters to beginners and advanced golfers alike with its pristine fairways, intriguing layout and friendly staff. In fact, some have said that the staff's positive energy rubs off on the players as well, so the course provides an overall friendly vibe! Plus, if you're looking for refreshments after your round, there's no other course in Cincinnati that offers a better selection.Hueston Woods Golf Course
5201 Lodge Road, College Corner Located smack dab in the heart of a heavily wooded state park, the Hueston Woods Golf Course offers a unique and delightful challenge for golfers. The course is located an hour's drive from the center of Cincinnati, but that drive is well worth it! Upon reaching the course, you'll find terrific and purely natural views, and fun obstacles spread across a generous 260 acres of land. The par 72-course has four sets of tees ranging from 5,251 to 7,044 yards, and the staff is happy to offer tips and tricks for playing your best round yet.Legendary Run
915 East Legendary Run, Cincinnati
Legendary Run aims to be the world's friendliest golf course, and due to the countless positive reviews, it seems to be successful in its goal! The course is set into the hillside and boasts gently undulating greens, picturesque scenery, and unique challenges suitable for any level. Choose your style of play or enjoy a variety — the front nine are more open and less challenging, while the back nine require pinpoint precision!
Miami Whitewater Forest Golf Course
8801 Mount Hope Road, Harrison Situated on the banks of scenic Whitewater Lake in western Hamilton County, this golf course is about as picturesque as it gets. Among the gently rolling fairways, you'll find lush trees and wildlife, and the links-style course provides a fun and challenging round for beginners and experts alike. After a round, fuel up with a drink or sandwich at the full service snack bar with a spacious outdoor patio!Shaker Run Golf Club
1320 Golf Club Drive, Lebanon Located just north of Cincinnati in Lebanon, Ohio, Shaker Run Golf Club is well worth the short commute. Here, you'll find a 27-hole championship course with bentgrass fairways, challenging water hazards, sculpted bunkers and absolutely picturesque scenery. The course has hosted many notable events, including the Kroger Senior Tournament Qualifier, the Nike Miami Valley Tournament, the 1998 Ohio Amateur Championship, and the 205 U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship, but a round here is a must-try experience for both champions and beginners.Sharon Woods Golf Course
11355 Swing Road, Cincinnati Opened by renowned golf professional Bobby Jones in 1938, the Sharon Woods Golf Course is a truly special course. It is the oldest of the seven courses operated by the Great Parks of Hamilton County, and has stood the test of time with its exquisitely maintained terrain, instructional programs, family events, competitions and unique layout. The clubhouse and patio area overlooks the #7 and #9 holes, and allows a space to enjoy a meal and refreshment after your round.The Golf Course at Stonelick Hills
3144 Sherilyn Lane, Batavia No expense was spared in the construction of the course at Stonelick Hills. The pristine and challenging course is routed through heavily forested hills and scenic water features, and boasts bold bunkering that makes every shot a challenge. Though your attention might be occupied by the game, make sure to take a moment to look up and enjoy the scenery! You might even spot some wildlife.Vineyard Golf Course
600 Nordyke Road, Cincinnati
Photo courtesy of the Great Parks of Hamilton County
Operated by Great Parks of Hamilton County, the Vineyard Golf Course has won many accolades for its excellent playing conditions, interesting course layout and top-notch customer service. In fact, it consistently ranks as a favorite for golfers in southern Ohio! Come experience the bentgrass fairways, lush greens and challenging holes for yourself, and see what all the fuss is about.Enjoy your game!
March
29
29
Ohio-Based 16-Bit Bar + Arcade is a Dream Destination for Any Kid at Heart
Fun and silliness don't have to end after childhood — and 16-Bit proves that 100 times over. The bar, currently located in Columbus, Cleveland and Cincinnati, caters to all children at heart, gamers and science fiction fanatics with its immersive arcade experience. It goes above and beyond your typical themed bar, inviting locals and visitors alike to escape into a new world.
Every weekend, the team celebrates something different in pop culture, whether it's something special that happened historically on a certain day or something happening currently, and molds the entire bar around that event. For instance, on Winona Ryder's...
Every weekend, the team celebrates something different in pop culture, whether it's something special that happened historically on a certain day or something happening currently, and molds the entire bar around that event. For instance, on Winona Ryder's...
March
29
29
The Best Things to Do, Eat and Drink in the Short North Neighborhood
Photo courtesy Zoey Duan via the Short North Arts District Facebook page
Affectionately known as the "art and soul of Columbus," the Short North neighborhood is undoubtedly one of the most popular city destinations for locals and visitors alike. The area boasts a high concentration of galleries, delicious restaurants, craft breweries and theaters — in fact, there are so many things to see, explore and taste, it can be difficult to decide what to experience first! We rounded up a list of the best things to do, the best things to eat and drink, and the best places to live in the Short North. Whether you're just stopping by for a short trip (no pun intended), or you're a local looking to experience something new in the area, make sure to check a few of these off of your list!JUMP AHEAD:
What to Do | Where to Eat | Where to Drink | Where to Live
What to Do
See a Show with Short North Stage
Photo courtesy of Zeek Creative via Short North Stage
The Short North isn't just famous for its physical works of art — performing arts thrive in the neighborhood, too! Short North Stage, for instance, produces and performs shows weekly, ranging from Broadway classics to edgy musicals, and progressive one-act plays to cabarets. Find them at the Green Room, Ethel's Lounge or the Garden Theater. Picnic in Goodale Park Surrounded by the charming, 19th century homes of Victorian Village, Goodale Park is the oldest park in Columbus and among the oldest in the United States. The 40-acre space provides a haven for those looking to soak in the sunshine, play a little frisbee or enjoy a picnic, and you'll also find a playground, tennis courts, a park shelter and a pond-side gazebo. Take a Self-Guided Tour of the Public Art
Photo courtesy Zoey Duan via the Short North Arts District Facebook page
The Short North is filled with interesting sculptures, mixed media pieces and giant murals — including the famed Short North Gothic mural. Can you find them all? Take a peek at this guide to public artwork in the area. Take a Foodie Tour with Columbus Food Adventures There's no better way to see (and taste) the neighborhood! Take a leisurely stroll with a guide, who will take you to sample the flavors of the Short North at six to seven of its restaurants. Together, the tastings make up a complete lunch, and along the way, you will learn the colorful history of the area. Book a Pedal Wagon If you're familiar with the Short North (or any other downtown area, for that matter), you've probably seen the large, open-air pedal buses blasting fun music and rolling down the street. Groups of 15 people pedal the vehicle around the neighborhood, visiting the Short North's most notable landmarks, restaurants and local establishments. Go Shopping at a Boutique
Photo courtesy of Artisan Deluxe
Of Columbus' most notable boutiques, many of them are in the Short North neighborhood! Check out shops like Artisan Deluxe, Ladybird, Rowe Boutique, Kiln Mercantile, Red Giraffe Designs and Tigertree, and view our list of the 16 best boutiques in Columbus for additional shop-spiration. Embark on the Short North Gallery Tour The Short North is known for its art galleries, and this is the perfect chance to see them. On the first Saturday of every month, all of the local galleries open their doors to the public after hours, and the streets explode with performers, special events, food, drinks and fun. It's Columbus' favorite night of the month to celebrate art! Note: If you can't make it on the first Saturday, make sure to give yourself a self-guided tour of the local galleries — it's worth it.Where to Eat
For Breakfast: Tasi Cafe Tasi Cafe is open for lunch and dinner (both delicious), but the all-day breakfast menu is what really draws us in the door. The menu features grab 'n' go items like croissant sandwiches, bagels and breakfast burritos, but you'll also find fancier items like biscuits and sausage gravy, cinnamon challah French toast and a steak skillet. For Dessert: Jeni's Splendid Ice CreamsJeni's is not just a delightful Columbus ice cream shop — it's a local institution. Since August of 2007, Jeni's has been scooping happiness to hungry locals and visitors alike. Come by to sample the unique flavors, which range from light and fruity to rich and decadent. Flavors change depending on the season. For New American: The Pearl This polished tavern serves up scratch-made food, classically inspired cocktails, craft beer, and freshly shucked oysters in modern and cozy digs. The menu features globally inspired cuisine and changes depending on the season, but stop by any Thursday to enjoy oysters fried, baked or raw at $2 a pop. Bonus: Brunch here is also amazing. For Taco Tuesday: Bakersfield Short North
Photo courtesy of the Thunderdome Restaurant Group via Bakersfield Short North
Bakersfield Short North boasts a vibrant atmosphere, interesting Mexican street food and margaritas bigger than your face. Everything (down to the tortillas) is handmade for maximum flavor, and there are more than 100 tequilas and American whiskeys to choose from. For Burgers: Stack City Burger Bar Boasting a modern space and an enviable patio, Stack City Burger Bar is known as the gateway to the Short North, and draws in passersby with its fun decor and mouthwatering burgers! Keep it classic with the Big Stack City burger, which features American cheese, lettuce, special sauce and pickles. For Fried Chicken: The Eagle Short North
Photo courtesy of The Eagle Short North
This indoor and outdoor beer hall dishes up comfort classics, craft cocktails and (arguably) the best fried chicken in town. The restaurant starts with cage-free, all natural chicken, brines it, dredges it and drops it into custom-built fryers. The result is perfectly crispy and absolutely mouthwatering. Try it with the house-made hot honey! For Asian Fusion and Sushi: Lemongrass Fusion Come experience the traditional flavors of Asia with a contemporary twist! The menu includes sashimi, nigiri, sushi rolls, seafood entrées, delightful appetizers and so much more. Everything is designed to wow, but reviewers point out that the Lemongrass soup is a showstopper. For Locavore Cuisine: Brassica
Photo courtesy of Jodi Miller via Brassica
Brassica is one of the best healthy restaurants in Columbus, but also one of the most delicious. Stop in for creative and colorful fare that ranges from salads to sandwiches. Bonus: everything on the menu is sourced from local farms and purveyors! For Farm-to-Fork Flavors: The Table Dishes at The Table are inspired by flavors from all over the world, but the team works closely with local farmers and urban gardeners to bring you the freshest produce available. Additionally, the charcuterie and baked goods are all prepared in-house! Stop by for dinner every night of the week (aside from Monday) and brunch on the weekends. For Upscale Fare: The Guild House The Guild House is becoming the go-to destination for date night in Columbus, and once you see the atmosphere, we're sure you'll understand why. The large rustic wooden beams set against plush seating and glittering chandeliers make for a truly special space — and don't even get us started on the food.Where to Drink
Brothers Drake Meadery
Photo courtesy of Brothers Drake Meadery
Brothers Drake Meadery allows you to learn the basics about mead and sample work in progress during its tours, which can be booked by appointment on any day of the week! Of course, you can stop by without an appointment to simply enjoy a glass and take in the atmosphere. North High Brewing North High Brewing features a rotating selection of at least 10 delicious beers on tap — all brewed on site! Come in to sip mainstays like the pale ale, the milk stout or the honey wheat lager. Wine on High
Photo courtesy of Wine on High
This wine bar and retail shop is not only one of our favorite places to pick up a bottle, it's also a great place for date night! This locally owned shop is home to more than 300 varietals of wine, all of which are available to enjoy by the glass, in a tasting or by the bottle. Pair your choice with a charcuterie board filled with artisan cheeses and meats. Service Bar At Service Bar, innovative cocktails are mixed with house-distilled spirits and served alongside delicious shareables. The space is a chic hipster haven, filled with gorgeous modern light fixtures and bold decor.Where to Live
Looking to live in or near the Short North neighborhood? We don't blame you! Imagine being within walking distance to all of these attractions every day. Search for homes in the area by clicking here, or by contacting us today for more information!
March
23
23
The 8 Best Natural Swimming Holes Near Cincinnati
Cincinnati is a haven for outdoor adventuring in the summertime. There are ample opportunities for hiking, biking, camping and fishing — all within the city limits! But there is no doubt that swimming is one of the most popular activities among locals, because there is nothing quite like the feeling of cannonballing into a cold-water pool or swimming hole on a hot Ohio day.
Of course, you could always go to a community pool or water park, but nearby lakes and creeks offer sandy shores, boating opportunities and plenty of aquatic real estate to splash around in. So, without further ado, here are some of our favorite natural swimming holes near Cincinnati. Let's jump right in!
East Fork State Park
Distance from Cincinnati: 35 minutes
Photo courtesy of the Ohio State Department of Parks and Watercraft
Boasting 4,870 acres of stunning natural scenery, East Fork is one of Ohio's largest state parks. Here, you'll find a great variety of recreational activities including horseback riding, boating, biking, hiking, fishing and (of course) swimming. Rugged hills and open meadows surround the lake and beach, making it a picturesque spot for a weekend getaway.Williamstown Lake
Distance from Cincinnati: 49 minutes Located just over the state line in Grant County, Kentucky, Williamstown Lake is a public 333-acre body of water and popular summer gathering spot. When the sun is high, boat enthusiasts take to the lake for water skiing, lounging and cannonballing into the clear blue water.Kincaid Lake State Park
Distance from Cincinnati: 49 minutes
Photo courtesy of Kincaid Lake State Park
Kincaid Lake is a great destination for camping, hiking, paddle boating and fishing with the whole family. Though the lake itself is restricted to boating only, there is a public swimming pool that overlooks the natural water. Jump in and enjoy the scenic views!Caesar Creek
Distance from Cincinnati: 51 minutes Along a section of Caesar's Creek near the Little Miami River, you'll find ample hiking opportunities and plenty of trees to shade you from the summer sun. Make sure to wear your swimsuit because along the trail, there are dozens of clear, blue swimming holes perfect for a quick, cooling dip!Hueston Woods State Park
Distance from Cincinnati: 56 minutes Hueston Woods State Park features a 1,500-foot sandy beach open to the public during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy a concession stand and bathhouse, a public swimming pool, and plenty of other interesting outdoor activities (including fossil hunting) in the park surrounding Acton Lake. If you'd like to extend your stay, there are lodging options and camping available!Ludlow Creek
Distance from Cincinnati: 1 hour, 9 minutes Ludlow Creek is home to a stunning, crystal clear waterfall — and this is where you'll find the best swimming. In fact, the spot has been a local favorite for decades! The falls are just a short walk from the main park in the Miami County town, Ludlow Falls, under the Route 48 bridge. Once you've arrived, enjoy lounging on the creek banks or take a refreshing dip under the falls!Mineral Springs Lake
Distance from Cincinnati: 1 hour 22 minutes People from all over the region flock to Mineral Springs Lake to soak in the fresh and enriching waters of the springs — but there is so much more to this area than just a lake. The farm resort offers an abundance of outdoor activities, gorgeous scenery, and great glamping amenities for families, couples and friend groups alike. The lake itself is surrounded by more than 5 miles of pristine shoreline, so don't forget your swimsuit and sunscreen!Long's Retreat
Distance from Cincinnati: 1 hour, 37 minutes For those looking for the complete summer package, get yourself to Long's retreat, where you can truly feel like you've escaped to summer camp. You'll find waterslides, beach swimming, a splash pad and much more on a 20-acre lake. And if you prefer to stay out of the water, there is also mini golf, go karts, a carousel, bounce houses and arcades. It's perfect for a family getaway!Geronimo!
Make sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more local recommendations!
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