
Did you know the Center of the World is in Ohio? Yes, there actually is an unincorporated community by that name near Youngstown, not far from the Pennsylvania state line.
But there are a number of truly compelling reasons why one of the state's slogans is, "Center of the Universe." If you're looking for a new home in 2021, here are a dozen fascinating features that make a great case for finding it in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati.
- Cleveland Rocks!
America's musical legacy includes genres from country to gospel, but none is more deeply entrenched in our country's spirit than rock and roll. Cleveland disc jockey Alan Freed coined that iconic term, so it's only fitting that the city was chosen to be the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Designed by legendary architect I.M. Pei, the Hall was dedicated in 1995 and includes 338 inductees.
- Marching to a Different Drum
Most big cities have a number of first-class historical, scientific, and art museums, and Cleveland is no exception. But if you prefer exploring culture that's a little offbeat, you're in luck. Cleveland features several delightfully quirky collections that pay tribute to the weirder side of life. Start your journey by checking out the Buckland Museum of Witchcraft and the Dittrick Museum of Medical History.
- Thrills, Chills, and Spills
Lake Erie's shoreline is also the site of another type of rockin' and rollin'. Cedar Point in Sandusky proudly bears the title of "Roller Coaster Capital of the World." With its world-record 71 rides, 17 of which are roller coasters, the park has been an annual summer tradition for countless families. As the second-oldest amusement park in the United States, Cedar Point's humble beginnings date back to 1870, when it consisted of a public beach, beer garden, and dance floor.
- Dotting the "I"
More than 60,000 students can't be wrong: Ohio State University is one of the largest and most prestigious institutes of higher learning in the country. OSU's top academic programs are matched by collegiate sports teams that frequently sit atop the national rankings. The marching band's halftime performance of Script Ohio, with a sousaphone player dotting the "i," has become one of the most enduring and beloved traditions of Saturday afternoon football games at the "Horseshoe."
- I Triple-Dog Dare Ya!
Warm, witty, and relatable, A Christmas Story has become a holiday classic for all ages. Reenact your favorite scenes at the actual house that served as the Parker family home, located in Cleveland's historic and elegant Tremont neighborhood. Right across the street is the companion museum, where you can view memorabilia such as Randy's snowsuit and purchase your very own "fra-gee-lay" leg lamp.
- Prost!
With the rise of microbreweries, domestic beers began to rival imports in terms of variety and quality. Hipster towns such as Denver, Seattle, and Portland are often considered leaders in this movement, but did you know that Columbus ranks in the top five U.S. cities for craft beer production? Untappd, an app focusing on all things beer-related, gives high marks to local favorites Hoof Hearted, Pretentious Barrel House, and Columbus Brewing Company.
- All Roads Lead to Columbus
Do you enjoy having family and friends come to visit? It's a little-known and astonishing fact that 48 percent of the U.S. population lives within a 500-mile radius of Columbus. Major urban centers such as Detroit, Chicago, Philadelphia, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. are no more than a day's drive away. Toronto and Ottawa are also within that radius, adding some international flair.
- Fast Food Nation
As the birthplace of Wendy's and Buffalo Wild Wings and the headquarters of White Castle, Columbus has plenty of fast food cred. That's just one of the reasons why the city has become well-known as Test Market, USA. Thrillist, Business Insider, and other sources have long noted that Columbus is the go-to for Starbucks, Burger King, and other national brands testing new products. The city's diverse demographics are valued as an ideal cross-section of the national population.
- Living on the Square in Cincinnati
Fans of classic sitcoms immediately recognize Fountain Square from its cameo in the opening credits of WKRP in Cincinnati. As downtown's shopping, entertainment, and cultural hub, Fountain Square is truly the heart and soul of this vibrant city.
- Crossing the Line
Cincinnati's fabulousness can't be contained by just one state. The metropolitan area spills across the Ohio River into Kentucky, incorporating such charming cities as Florence, Union, and Walton. Cross the historic, Brooklyn Bridge-esque John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge to travel from Cincinnati to Covington, which is the actual home of the Cincinnati International Airport.
- It's All About the Chili
Chili is a dish that lends itself to a wide range of ingredients and preparations. But Cincinnati still managed to put itself on the culinary map with a unique version that keeps people coming back for more. More of a sauce than a stew or soup, Cincinnati chili is almost always served on top of hot dogs or spaghetti noodles. Unexpected seasonings such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and chocolate give the chili a Mediterranean flavor. Order it 3-way topped with cheddar cheese, add onions or beans to make it 4-way, or go for the works with 5-way.
- The Color Purple
Get a good workout or embrace eco-friendly forms of transportation with a brisk walk across the Newport Southbank Bridge. The span, familiarly known as the Purple People Bridge due to its distinctive color, is a half-mile-long pedestrian bridge connecting Cincinnati and Newport, KY.
The Three Cs
Cleveland, Columbus, or Cincinnati: which one is the perfect fit for you?