The All-American Soap Box Derby is truly an all-American pastime. Every July since 1934 (except for the years of World War II), hundreds of youth have flocked to the Derby Downs racetrack in Akron (except for the first year in which is was located in Dayton) to compete in the iconic race. To take part in the competition, youngsters aged 7-18 (separated in heats by age and experience) throughout United States and the world are required to construct their own race- car to bring with them on the big day. Originally, this meant they were tasked with designing the cart... Continue reading

The romanticism of Ohio's Lake Erie shoreline is encapsulated to perfection at the upscale yet affordable Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake. Immaculate views of the state's northernmost shore and an array of activities and attractions for folks of any age are at your fingertips when staying at the Lodge. A tourist attraction for decades, the village of Geneva-on-the-Lake in Ashtabula County has long been known for its 1950s style "Strip" of arcade games and carnival foods along the coastline, and its impressive collection of more than 20 wineries spanning the countryside. It wasn't until 2004 that the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake came into... Continue reading

The National Museum of the United States Air Force, located at the Wright Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, is the world’s largest and oldest military aviation museum. I hold our nation's servicemen and women in high regard, have a huge interest in history, and like any young boy growing up, always have had a fascination with airplanes. This museum was calling out to me! It's always FREE Admission to the museum, which is incredible, given that it is one of the best in Ohio! It consists of three large hangars. The first hangar is dedicated to the beginnings of... Continue reading

The Ohio State Reformatory, built in 1886, in Mansfield is one of the most majestic buildings in all of Ohio, resembling a Transylvanian castle soaring high into the sky. Once a progressive prison, conditions worsened over the years, so much so that it finally shut its doors in 1990. Many say paranormal activity runs rampant at the prison, as improperly treated and abused inmates who died in the jail (which amount to over 200 people) continue to haunt visitors (that is, if you believe in that kind of thing). Today, people come from near and far to tour the abandoned... Continue reading

My family recently took a trip to the two wineries found in Trumbull County (where my hometown of Hubbard can be found). Our first stop was Country Porch Winery, which is described as being "nestled in the heart of Trumbull County." We found this to be true, as the quaint winery looked more like someone's home along the wide open roads of the City of Cortland. Its long porch was filled with tables made out of interesting items, such as barn doors, wine barrels, and the like. Folks sat on rocking chairs near the door and a dog greeted us... Continue reading

Located on 10,000 acres of land in Cumberland in Guernsey County in Southeast Ohio, The Wilds is one of the world's largest and most impressive wildlife conservations. There are many rare and endangered species living here, for purposes of science, research, education, breeding, observation, and personal experience. Even in our late 20s and early 30s, my friends and I were pumped to see these exotic animals out in the open! On our 1.5 hour drive from Columbus, we were as excited as elementary students on their way to the zoo! But "The Wilds" is much more - it's an interactive... Continue reading

Above Photos by Mike Evans of OHventures Zip lining consists of a series of heavy duty wires suspended in the air, typically connected to a tree or man-made platform at either end. A harness straps the daring rider in and a pulley system allows the rider to hang from the wire and glide - or "zip" - across from one end to the other! This extreme activity offers thrills on a multitude of levels. The speed and height of the zip line varies throughout each "course" and beautiful views of Ohio's lush flora are consistent through and through! We are... Continue reading

Canton Food Tours Founder Barb Abbott at the McKinley Monument I have been to the City of Canton many times in my day, but never had I experienced it the way I did just a couple months ago when I went on a fun-filled and flavorful journey through town with the Canton Food Tours. Founded in May 2012 by entrepreneur Barb Abbott, Canton Food Tours is a unique way to tour the city, learning not only about local eats, but also about the rich history, architecture, and art of the area. There is a wide variety of tours available to... Continue reading

Just because the mercury has been rapidly dropping in your thermometers doesn't mean you should stay cooped up indoors all winter. Staying active in Ohio during the blistery months of December and January can be possible, thanks to the seasonal ice skating rink located at Lock 3 Park in downtown Akron. The 10,000 square foot rink (which is the largest seasonal rink in all of Ohio) allows every member of your family the opportunity to perfect their triple axles and figure eights in the heart of the Rubber City. Lock 3 magically transforms itself from a concert venue and park... Continue reading