Posts with tag 'Mantua OH'

Spring is in the air, which means Ohio's wildflower season has just begun. In parks and preserves all over the Buckeye State, the first flowers of the year have already started to bloom.

But the great thing about wildflowers in Ohio is that they don't all appear at once. We get to experience a rainbow of color that changes with the seasons. These wildflower hikes offer opportunities to see a dazzling array of native wildflowers throughout the spring and well into summer.

California Woods Nature Preserve

5400 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45230

Southern Ohio parks tend to see the state's earliest spring wildflower blooms, and California Woods Nature Preserve is a prime spot to see early spring flowers in Cincinnati. This Hamilton County preserve encompasses 113 acres of forests, with steep ravines and shady woods that harbor diverse spring bloomers. Visit in May to see Virginia spiderwort and fire-pink in bloom, along with the yellow blossoms of cinquefoil and trout lilies. California Woods is home to an extensive trail system, and the 1-mile Junction Loop is a great place to start. Stop back in summer to explore the preserve's butterfly and hummingbird garden!

Three Creeks Metropark

3860 Bixby Rd., Groveport, OH 43125

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One of the several picturesque Metroparks in the Columbus area, Three Creeks Metropark has a reputation as one of the most beautiful destinations for wildflower hikes in Central Ohio. This 1,053-acre park takes its name from the spot where Alum, Big Walnut, and Blacklick creeks meet, and the area around the confluence of these three streams offers a diverse bounty of spring blooms. The 1-mile Confluence Trail meanders along the creek banks, and you may spy flowers including yellow and white trout lily, Dutchman's breeches and spring beauty, among others. The nearby Bluebell Trail abounds in its namesake flowers, and the small maroon blossoms of sessile trillium are also a common sight. 

Wilson Nature Preserve

4082 OH-132, Batavia, OH 45103 

Less than 30 minutes from Cincinnati in the small town of Batavia, OH, the James L. and Frances Wilson Nature Preserve spans 145 beautiful acres along the banks of the Little Miami River, including a 25-acre river island. Three miles of trails traverse this picturesque woodland, the ground often carpeted in spring wildflowers. Eagle-eyed hikers can spot several different species of trilliums here. Picnic areas and additional trails, including the aptly named half-mile Wildflower Trail, are available in the neighboring Sycamore Park.

Wildcat Hollow Trail (Wayne National Forest)

Co Rd 58, Glouster, OH 45732

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Few places in Ohio offer a more immersive nature experience than Wayne National Forest, which spans a quarter of a million acres among the Appalachian foothills in the southeastern part of the state. There are endless wild experiences to be had here, but if spying spring and summer wildflowers is your goal, head to the Wildcat Hollow Trail. This 17.5-mile loop meanders through diverse woodland and meadow habitats, including carpets of the endangered running buffalo clover, and dense thickets of native rhododendrons in full bloom. The trail is about a 90-minute drive from Columbus, and worth every second of the journey.

North Kingsville Sand Barrens

Conneaut, OH 44030

A stone's throw from the shores of Lake Erie, the North Kingsville Sand Barrens represents a unique landscape of fossilized dunes that supports many plants and animals seen almost nowhere else in Ohio, including the endangered blue bead lily. The spectacular blooms of native blue lupine, which appear in late May and early June, are especially enchanting. This 174-acre property is managed by the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and offers some of the most spectacular wildflower blooms in Northeast Ohio. 

Holden Arboretum

9550 Sperry Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094

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The Holden Arboretum is a 3,600-acre wonderland for anyone interested in unique plants and flowers. Home to diverse gardens, collections, and ecologically sensitive habitats, it's one of the largest arboreta in the state and home to a vast network of walking paths. Keep an eye out for native beauties like marsh marigolds, trilliums, and Virginia bluebells. Just 30 minutes from Cleveland, the arboretum is one of the best places to see native wildflowers in Northeast Ohio. They even have an annual plant sale in early May, where you can purchase native wildflowers reared at the arboretum to transplant into your own garden. 

Edge of Appalachia Preserve

4274 Waggoner Riffle Rd., West Union, OH 45693

A 16,000-acre preserve dedicated to restoring Southern Ohio's Appalachian landscape, the Edge of Appalachia Preserve's dense forests and vibrant meadows are home to many plant species that are found almost nowhere else in the state. It's a truly unique and beautiful place to go looking for native wildflowers. Be sure to explore the Lynx Prairie Trail, which offers a glimpse at rare species like Indian paintbrush, western sunflower, and the endangered scaly blazing star.

Bigelow Cemetery State Nature Preserve

600 Rosedale Rd, Irwin, OH 43029

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Although it spans just half an acre, Bigelow Cemetery Nature Preserve is a unique and special place. This small park 30 minutes outside Columbus has never been grazed or plowed, a fact that becomes all the more striking when one looks out at the cultivated farmlands that surround it. This small plot of land was first used as a cemetery in pioneer times, and the grave markers dating back to the 1800s still stand among the tall prairie grasses and blooming wildflowers, giving it an almost dreamlike appearance. The blossoms are frequented by hummingbirds and butterflies and reach their peak in July and August.

Brecksville Reservation

9000 Chippewa Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141

The largest of Cleveland's 18 Metroparks, the Brecksville Reservation is home to the striking Chippewa Creek Gorge, as well as a section of the 1,400-mile Buckeye Trail, which forms a circular loop through the entire state of Ohio. The Brecksville Reservation is a great place for a spring wildflower hike, with prolific blooms of trout lily, great white trillium, marsh marigold, spring beauty, Jack-in-the-pulpit, and many other species. The 0.75-mile Wildflower Loop Trail packs a lot of great flora into a short, sweet hike. 

Walk on the Wild Side

Ohio has hundreds of amazing parks and trails where you can see blooming wildflowers throughout the spring and summer months. If we forgot to mention your favorite place, be sure to let us know in the comments below!

The earliest water-powered mills date back to the Roman Empire. As farming became an increasingly important part of Ohio's economy, mills were so vital to the industry that communities frequently grew around them.

In the 21st century, several mills remain as monuments to the development of agriculture around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati. Step back in time for a fascinating look at our state's past with a trip to these picturesque historic mills. 

Historic Clifton Mill

75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316

With its red-sided building, giant wheel, and cascading water, picture-perfect Historic Clifton Mill could have been pulled from a movie set. In reality, the authentic 19th-century grist mill is the only one of six mills in the immediate area that remains standing. After touring the mill, stroll across the adjacent 90-foot covered wooden bridge for some spectacular views of the grounds and stop in at the 1940s Gas Station Museum next door. Complete your day with a fresh-cooked meal at the onsite restaurant, serving breakfast and lunch seven days a week. During spring and summer, the mill itself is open weekdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Admission is $3. Call ahead to confirm.

Wolf Creek Mill

St. Rt. 3 South, Loudonville, OH 44842 

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Just over 20 years ago, Mark Smith and his family were camping in nearby Mohican State Park when they discovered Wolf Creek Mill. Sadly, this once-impressive grist mill had fallen into severe disrepair after years of neglect. As a historic restoration contractor, Mark was inspired to form the non-profit Friends of the Mill Group to restore the site's original glory. The mill itself is now back in operating condition, and the group's ultimate goal is to create a historic village, preserving tradition for future generations. Visit the website for hours as well as the schedule of fundraisers, trade fairs, and other events.

Bear's Mill

6450 Arcanum-Bears Mill Rd., Greenville, OH 45331

While the name may sound like a wildlife sanctuary, Bear's Mill is named for Gabriel Baer, the man who constructed the building in 1849. Incredibly, the framework consists of hand-hewn timber beams that are close to 50 feet long without a single splice. But this still-functioning grist mill is about more than commerce. It also houses the Clark Gallery, a space devoted to showcasing a rotating selection of works from local artists, including pottery made by Bear's Mill potters. Admission is free. Hours are 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 1 – 5 p.m. Sunday.

Gaston's Mill

12021 Echo Dell Rd., East Liverpool, OH 43920

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Travel back in time with a visit to Pioneer Village at Beaver Creek State Park. In addition to Gaston's Mill, a fully restored grist mill dating back to 1837, the village is home to a blacksmith shop, chapel, schoolhouse, and a canal-era lock, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beaver Creek State Park and Pioneer Village are open to the public daily at no charge, while Gaston's Mill may be viewed in operation on select weekends during the summer.

Bieber Mill

4919 Chapman Rd., #4801, Delaware, OH 43015 

Tucked away on the banks of the Olentangy River, the ruins of the Bieber Mill might resemble one of the castles from Game of Thrones. In 1848, only a few years after its construction, George Bieber and his son James purchased the original wooden grist mill. James later built a towering stone mill, but lost ownership when he couldn't afford to run the business. Sadly, a fire in the early 1900s destroyed the frame mill and part of the stone mill. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources currently owns the property. They have stabilized the remains and hope to obtain financing for a complete restoration. In the meantime, Bieber Mill's beauty still shines through, making it a popular spot for sightseers and photographers.

Rock Mill

1429 Rockmill Pl. NW, Lancaster, OH 43130

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The current Rock Mill, which is the stunning centerpiece of Stebelton Park, is actually the third structure to bear the name. In the mid-2000s, the building underwent a major restoration, including the creation of a 26-foot all-wood waterwheel, which is the largest one in the state. Across from the waterwheel is a breathtaking 14-foot waterfall, where the Hocking River flows through the gorge. A quaint white covered bridge completes the nostalgic scene. The park is open daily from dawn until dusk, while tours of the mill are offered from noon - 4 p.m. each weekend from May through October.

Sauder Village

22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH 43502

If a history book came to life, it would be Sauder Village. Back in 1976, Erie Sauder built his namesake village as a living tribute to the pioneering spirit that shaped Ohio. Among the 75 historic structures and 50,000 artifacts is a working grist mill, which is used to grind corn into meal for their cooking demonstrations. Visitors also get a chance to try their hand at grinding corn with stones and replicate the method used by Native Americans. Other points of interest include Erie's Farm Shop and the Cabinet Shop, where you can learn more about Erie's other legacy, Sauder Woodworking. Sauder Village opens for the season on May 6. Visit the website for information about hours and admission prices. 

Garrett's Mill & Brewing Company

8148 Main St., Garrettsville, OH 44231

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"Reuse, repurpose, recycle" is today's mantra of environmental awareness, and it's clearly what owners Shelli and Brian Buchanan had in mind when they founded Garrett's Mill & Brewing Company. When it was constructed in 1804, Garrett's Mill served a radius of 20 miles, leading to the development of the town that bears the same name. Shelli and John kept the essence of the mill in creating their brewery and gastropub. In addition to inventive house brews such as Garrett's Gold and Ma Barker Birch Beer, the restaurant serves elevated pub fare. Signature dishes include the "Brewben," with bratwurst subbing for corned beef, and BBQ chicken gouda mac. Hours are noon - 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, noon - 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and noon - 7 p.m. Sunday.

Down by the Old Mill Stream

Grist mills produce flour, which is the foundation for many of our favorite foods. Donuts, cakes, bread, pie ... what's number one on your list of baked goods? 

When you're looking for special items for your home or a unique gift that didn't come from a big-box store, an antique shop makes the perfect destination. You'll find treasures that have withstood the test of time and add special character to your décor, and besides that, it's just fun to browse in these shops!

Find out why everything old is new again at these nine Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati antique shops:

Grandview Mercantile   

1489 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212  

If you're looking for antiques, you're sure to find something at Grandview Mercantile, the largest store of its kind in the Midwest. It comprises 22,000 square feet of antiques and home items from 20 dealers and over 500 consignors. You can buy everything from fine art to vintage and estate jewelry at the store, and its inventory is constantly changing. Whether you're looking to decorate your new home or are searching for a one-of-a-kind gift, you're likely to find it at Grandview Mercantile. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday, and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday.

Columbus Architectural Salvage Antiques & Artifacts

1580 Clara St., Columbus, OH 43211      

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Located near the State Fairgrounds, Columbus Architectural Salvage Antiques & Artifacts is a unique 10,000-square-foot store that specializes in fixtures and other items that were salvaged from historic homes and properties. The shop's doors, windows, bathtubs, lighting fixtures, doorknobs, and other items can help make your décor interesting while giving it an authentic touch of the past. In addition to architectural items, the shop also carries vintage signs, artwork, home décor, and more. Hours are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday by appointment only.

Mary Catherine's Antiques

1128-1130 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

Mary Catherine's Antiques encompasses two large storerooms in Columbus' Short North Arts District and has sold special antique and retro pieces since the late 1970s. They're stocked with antique and vintage furniture, artwork, jewelry, advertising signs, jewelry, and much more. Rounding out the inventory are unusual items from the mid to late 20th century, such as a recently sold vintage canoe. Hours are 1-5 p.m. Thursday-Saturday and by appointment.

Wooden Nickel Antiques

1410 Central Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45202 

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The best-selling items at Wooden Nickel Antiques may come as a slight surprise since they're so unique. The shop specializes in antique saloon back bars – most of which are from the late 1800s to the early 1900s – that they restore, so if you're planning to upgrade your home entertainment area, you might check them out. You'll also be able to find plenty of fireplace mantles, architectural salvage items, stained glass, furniture, and much more as you browse through their ever-changing items. Hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Saturday.

Lentz and Company

339 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220

Nestled in the heart of Clifton's Gaslight Business District, Lentz and Company prides itself in making its shop a fun treasure hunt where you're sure to find something you want to take home. If you're looking for furniture, kitchenware, bar accessories, art, or jewelry that's special, you'll be able to find it at this antique shop. Hours are 2-7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 2-8 p.m. Friday, noon-7 p.m. Saturday, and 1-5 p.m., but when the weather's nice and people are out and about in the area, the shop stays open later.

Riverside Centre Antique Mall

3742 Kellogg Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226

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Riverside Centre Antique Mall has been described as "a fun, funky 30,000-square-foot treasure trove" by Cincinnati Magazine, which contrasts it with musty old antique malls of the past. The shop sells furniture, salvaged architectural items, jewelry, and more and is a frequent destination for set designers for television shows and movies. The shop has earned a reputation for a family-like atmosphere and serves coffee and cookies to its customers on the weekends. Hours are noon-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

Sweet Lorain

7501 Lorain Rd., Cleveland, OH 44102

Sweet Lorain is celebrating its 29th year of helping Northeast Ohio residents find one-of-a-kind treasures. With over 8,000 square feet of merchandise to choose from, the shop truly has something for everyone. Find a vintage toy and relive your childhood, buy some travel-related mementos from Ohio, or spruce up your kitchen with some vintage canisters. Although the shop is packed with goodies, it's well organized into logical sections so you can find the areas you're most interested in. Hours are noon-5 p.m. Sunday and Monday and noon-6 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday.

Moonstruck CLE Vintage

11917 Mayfield Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

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Located in the historic Little Italy neighborhood of Cleveland, Moonstruck CLE Vintage has a cozy, friendly atmosphere. The shop has a wide variety of vintage wares, including accessories, home décor, clothing, kitchen items, books, jewelry, and more. The search is half of the fun, but chances are good that you'll find something you love enough to buy and give a cherished spot in your home. Hours are 3-8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 1-5 p.m. Sunday by appointment. 

Flower Child

11508 Clifton Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44102  

Stepping into Flower Child is like stepping into the past since items are displayed as they would have been when they were originally sold. You'll be able to browse in a living room that looks like it's been transported from the '50s and walk over to a plush bedroom from the '60s. The shop has an excellent mid-century collection of items, and the staff is happy to help you find some treasures. Hours are noon-7 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday; noon-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

Picker's Paradise

What are some special treasures you've found at antique shops in Cincinnati, Columbus, and Northeast Ohio? 

A Custom-Built Colonial in the Woods

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