Posts with tag 'Sunbury OH'

Is it truly time to shake off the winter chill, and welcome the first signs of spring? You bet! The days are growing longer, the temperatures are rising, and the first flowers are emerging from the soil at greenspaces all around Columbus. Whether you're interested in a quiet, tranquil walk, a chance to gaze at gorgeous gardens, or the perfect place for a fun, outdoor family outing, there's certain to be a local greenspace with your name on it. Find your happy place with our guide to 9 of the best greenspaces in Columbus.

John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons

160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

There's always something new to experience when you visit the John F. Wolfe Columbus Commons, a popular urban greenspace located in the heart of downtown Columbus. This park offers a little bit of everything, from flowery gardens and community events to a food truck court that features flavors from around the world. It's also home to the unique NEOS Electric Playground, which is certain to be a hit with younger members of the family.

Goodale Park

120 W. Goodale St., Columbus, OH 43215

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With beautiful fountains, a scenic pond, and stunning views of the Columbus skyline, Goodale Park is the perfect place to shake off the winter chill. This is the oldest public park in the city, built on land that was donated by the first physician to practice in Columbus. Along with the scenery, this park has tennis courts for enjoying some outdoor recreation, a playground that is sure to keep the kids entertained, and plenty of lovely places to plan a picnic.

Schiller Park

1069 Jaeger St., Columbus, OH 43206

Ever since the land was first converted into a park in the 1800s, Schiller Park has been a local favorite for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The park is named for German poet Friedrich Schiller, and the scenery just might be enough to inspire you to write some poetry of your own. At Schiller Park, you'll find a peaceful fishing pond, a collection of beautifully maintained gardens, and a wide variety of outdoor recreation facilities for enjoying your favorite sports. Schiller Park is also home to the Actor's Summer Theater, where you can enjoy public performances of Shakespeare during the warm weather seasons.

Columbus Park of Roses

3901 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

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What could be a better way to celebrate the signs of spring than visiting a beautiful rose garden? And the Columbus Park of Roses isn't just any old garden. It features one of the most extensive selections of roses in the entire country, with more than 12,000 specimens when the garden is in full bloom. There are paved paths that make it easy to explore the gardens and plenty of places to snap some great pictures for social media sharing. Be sure to check out the Park of Roses website, where you can see which roses are in bloom before you visit.

Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens

152 Howlett Hall 2021, Fyffe Rd., Columbus, OH 43210

Looking for an educational setting where kids can learn while enjoying the great outdoors? The Chadwick Arboretum & Learning Gardens offer a unique blend of outdoor fun and education. The facility is located on the Ohio State University agriculture campus and is free to visit all year long. Enjoy expansive gardens, native trees, gorgeous greenhouses, and plenty of opportunities to learn more about all of the flora on display.

Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens

1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203

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When you're in the mood for a lush, scenic outdoor setting with activities galore, it's hard to top the experience at Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens. This facility features more than 100 acres of natural beauty to explore, with some of the most stunning gardens that you'll find anywhere. While you're here, be sure to check out the schedule of gardening workshops, educational classes, community events, seasonal farmer's market, and expert-guided tours.

Scioto Audubon

400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215

For unique outdoor recreation activities in Columbus, it's hard to top all that the Scioto Audubon Metropark has to offer. Scale a massive rock-climbing wall that can accommodate climbers of all skill levels and enjoy a wide range of recreational facilities for playing your favorite sports. There's also a popular dog park on-site, perfect for celebrating the start of spring with your furry friend.

Scioto Mile

233 S. Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH 43215

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In the mood for a full day of visiting some of the best greenspaces in Columbus? Scioto Mile is a beautiful greenspace on its own, and its paved, well-maintained paths connect to eight other greenspaces within the city. The paths wind along the Scioto River, and offer outstanding views of the city skyline. You'll find unique public art exhibits as you explore the area, and may even encounter some free, public performances depending on when you visit. Be sure to come back again in the summer, when kids can enjoy a splash in the interactive Scioto Mile Fountain.

Topiary Garden Park

480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215

If you're searching for something that is uniquely Columbus, then a trip to the Topiary Garden Park is definitely in order. What is a topiary garden, you might ask? It's a good question because this is the only garden of its kind in the whole world! The Topiary Garden Park is a recreation of Georges Seurat's painting, "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte." But instead of paint, the garden uses sculpted plants and landscaping features to recreate the painting. This is one Columbus attraction that art lovers won't want to miss.

Go Green(space)

Which outdoor oasis is at the top of your list for celebrating the first signs of spring? The diverse, beautiful greenspaces of Columbus are ready to be explored, with family fun waiting around every corner.

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? 

Bird watching may seem like a relatively tame activity, but it's actually beneficial for your mental and physical health. Walking is good for your cardiovascular system, while experts say bird watching reduces stress and anxiety while improving cognitive skills.

Another positive aspect of bird watching? It costs nothing to participate when you visit these fascinating sites around Columbus and Central Ohio.

Grange Insurance Audubon Center

505 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215

Named for the iconic ornithologist and painter, Grange Insurance Audubon Center is designed to show how conservation efforts enable nature to thrive in urban areas. This lush bird sanctuary stands on a former industrial site in downtown Columbus, right on the banks of the Scioto River. Kids can check out Adventure and Discovery Backpacks for curbside pickup that contain materials to help them get the most out of your visit. Check the website for information about current programs. The Scioto Audubon Park is open daily from 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Blendon Woods Metro Park

4265 E. Dublin Granville Rd., Columbus, OH 43081

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Where do turkeys go when it's not Thanksgiving? Chances are good you'll see some of them foraging for food at Blendon Woods Metro Park. The 653-acre grounds are also home to a variety of songbirds as well as Thoreau Lake, site of the Walden Waterfowl Refuge. Get a great view from the spotting scopes atop two elevated observation platforms. Stream-cut ravines and open fields provide a picturesque backdrop for a day of bird watching. Park hours are 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Glen Echo Park

510 Cliffside Dr., Columbus, OH 43202

Running from Fourth St. to Indianola Ave., the ravine setting of Glen Echo Park is so secluded that many Columbus residents are surprised to learn about it. The dog-friendly park offers a serene oasis that feels miles away from the traffic and activity above, making it a popular spot for local bird watchers. Don't miss the tunnel with colorful bird figures painted on the walls, which is a favorite attraction for park visitors. Glen Echo Park is open daily from 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Pickerington Ponds Metro Park

7680 Wright Rd., Canal Winchester, OH 43110

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The delightfully alliterative name of Pickerington Ponds Metro Park sounds like something you might find in the fields of England. In reality, this top bird-watching site is just minutes from Columbus. With more than 260 species of waterfowl, shorebirds and land birds spotted on 1,608-acre grounds, you're sure to have a productive day. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, beaver, fox, and other wildlife that also roam the park. Park hours are 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.

Highbanks Metro Park

9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center, OH 43035

As the name implies, Highbanks Metro Park is noted for its 100-foot-tall shale bluff that looks out over the Olentangy State Scenic River. The 1,200-acre park has several trails in various degrees of difficulty that provide numerous opportunities for bird watching, including eagles, which have been seen at Highbanks. Many of the trails are pet-friendly, so bring Fido along. Highbanks is open 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway, OH 43119

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The sprawling 7,000 acres of Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park encompass a variety of different terrains, including forests, prairies, and wetlands. More than 1,600 acres of the land have been restored, with bison inhabiting two enclosed pastures. White Barn Lagoon is a spot favored by many bird watchers. Sightings of nearly 100 species, including peregrine falcons and European starlings, have been reported. A number of the dozen trails are well-suited for family and dog outings. Battelle Darby Creek is open year-round from 6:30 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Hogback Ridge Park

2656 Hogback Rd., Sunbury, OH 43074

On its own, Hogback Ridge Park is a lovely, dog-friendly place to spend a day of bird watching. Winding trails make their way through wooded ravines that are home to wild turkeys, pileated woodpeckers, and many other species. For a real treat, take the Woodland Ridge Trail to the Equestrian Trail to a spot on Alum Creek dubbed "Osprey Overlook." Enjoy breathtaking sights of these stunning birds fishing, feeding their young and interacting with other osprey. Hogback Ridge is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. - 7 p.m., with extended hours until 9 p.m. between March and October.

Wilma H. Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park

352 W. Dodridge St., Columbus, OH 43202

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Bird watching is part of higher education at the Wilma H. Schiermeier Olentangy River Wetland Research Park. The 52-acre facility sits just on the northern edge of the Ohio State University Campus. Faculty and students use the park for research and training on ecosystems, landscapes, and other environmental matters. The park and its greenway trails, paved paths, and observation pavilion are open to the public daily from dawn until dusk.

Hoover Reservoir Park

7701 Sunbury Rd., Westerville, OH 43081

Few things are more exciting for veteran and novice bird watchers alike than a bald eagle sighting. Such occurrences are relatively frequent at Hoover Reservoir Park, a peaceful spot located a mere 20 minutes from Columbus. The Hoover Meadows Bluebird Trail and Hoover Mudflats are well-known bird-watching spots. Mud Hen Marsh, one of several preserves in the area, offers great opportunities to view the marsh's namesake as well as the Northern Cardinal, Eastern Kingbird, and House Finch. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.

Free as a Bird

Man has long envied birds' ability to fly. If you could take flight, what's the first destination you'd head to?

January 29th is Puzzle Day, so head to your local shop and buy some to work out on your own or with family members. Simple puzzles with just a few pieces can help kids get started on this fun pastime while working on their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Before you know it, they'll be helping you on more complex 500- or 1,000-plus puzzles that take days to complete. And no matter what your interests, you'll probably be able to find a puzzle that matches them.

Check out the following 9 places around Ohio to puzzle it out:

Northeast Ohio

Sweets & Geeks

342 E. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256

The Sweets & Geeks name says it all – the store is a pop-culture haven that carries sweet candy as well as retro and modern "geeky" games, collectibles, and puzzles. Located near the heart of Historic Medicine Square, the shop has a good selection of puzzles, including ones with Coca-Cola, DC, Marvel, and Harry Potter themes. And while you're at the store, pick up some candy to enjoy while you're working your puzzle at home. From "weird and gross" choices to nostalgic candies you might have grown up with, you'll find something to please everyone who's working on the puzzle. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Sunday.

Once Upon a Time

19285 Detroit Rd., Rocky River, OH 44116

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This family-owned toy store has been open since 1984 and been in its current location since 1988, so it has many satisfied customers throughout the northeast Ohio area. It's a good spot to shop for puzzles, including ones from the popular Ravensburger brand. Their puzzles range from 15-piece ones that appeal to young children to 9,000-piece scenes that will keep the family busy for days. You'll also find uniquely fun 3D puzzles. Visit the shop from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

Toyrifix

885 W. Main St., Smithville OH 44677

Toyrifix carries a large selection of toys, games, and puzzles and prides itself on inspiring creative interactions between generations. You'll find plenty of puzzles, including one with a "Wine Time" theme that's perfect for these times of social distancing. Others follow a color theme, such as red, orange, or green, or depict colorful flowers or cute llamas. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 12:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday.

Columbus 

The Book Loft

631 S. Third St., Columbus OH 43206

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You'll find much more than books at The Book Loft at German Village – which is one of the country's largest independent bookstores – including a huge collection of jigsaw puzzles. It's located a few blocks south of the state capitol building in a location with a rich pre-Civil War history. Since it takes up an entire city block and encompasses 32 rooms, you're sure to find additional items like board games, posters, and more. Hours are 10 a.m.-11 p.m., 7 days a week.

Gramercy Books  

2424 E. Main St., Bexley OH 43209  

Locally owned Gramercy Books carries a selection of carefully curated puzzles, books (of course), and more. It's located in the heart of Bexley, at the intersection of East Main Street and Cassady Avenue. After you select the puzzles you'd like to buy, take time to visit the store's café, Kittie's, to enjoy Stumptown coffee, snacks, and their famous cupcakes. And don't forget to pet Wally, the store's adorable dog. Hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 7 days a week.

Beanbag Books

25 W. Winter St., Delaware, OH 43015

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Originally started as Fundamentals Parent-Teacher Store, Beanbag Books has been one of Delaware's favorite shops for over 30 years. Shop for puzzles, games, books, and more educational and fun activities you can share with your child. Hours are 3 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Wednesday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursday and Friday, and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. The shop is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Cincinnati

Downbound Books

4139 Apple St., Cincinnati, OH 45223

Downbound Books has an extensive selection of puzzles, including those that have 500 or more pieces and ones that are well suited for children or for the entire family. The shop is open for curbside pickup from 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. You can also set a shopping appointment for groups of up to 5 people, and neighborhood deliveries are also offered.

King Arthur's Toys

3040 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209

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King Arthur's Toys was started over 40 years ago as a tiny hobby shop, growing over the years to become a popular – and larger – store that carries puzzles, games, and toys. Shop for gorgeous Pomegranate puzzles, which are beautifully artistic. Choose from a depiction of Van Gogh's Irises, Old-World map, Renoir's Luncheon of a Boating Party, and many more. They're so attractive that they're perfect for preserving and framing to hang on the wall. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.

The Bookshelf

7754 Camargo Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45243  

You'll find a variety of puzzles and books at The Bookshelf, so a visit to the shop will have you well-stocked for at-home fun. If you become a frequent customer at The Bookshelf, you may want to purchase a frequent buyer card to receive a 10% discount, and if you're a teacher, you can score 15% off even without the card. Hours are 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, and 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

Piecing It Together

What kind of puzzles will you piece together as you spend time bonding with your family?