Kim Mills Blog

Itching to explore the diverse Ohio dining scene and take your taste buds on a trip to Mexico? Whether you're in the mood for curbside pickup, contactless delivery, or socially distanced in-person dining, you'll find countless fantastic, authentic Mexican dining options throughout Ohio communities. From tiny, well-known neighborhood taquerias to luxurious dining destinations with built-in bars, you'll find something for every taste at Ohio's many Mexican restaurants. Get ready to satisfy your craving for authentic Mexican food with our guide to 9 Mexican restaurants located in Ohio communities.

Azteca Mexican Restaurant

1779 E Market St., Akron, OH 44305

Known for its upbeat atmosphere, friendly staff, delicious drinks, and extensive menu of authentic, flavorful food, Azteca Mexican Restaurant is your destination for Mexican dining in Akron. Azteca Mexican Restaurant strives to create an inviting, family-focused atmosphere, whether you're dining in, enjoying a meal on the outdoor patio, or simply stopping by to pick up a takeout order. If you're searching for a restaurant that offers diverse vegetarian options, this is the perfect place to visit. Online ordering is available anytime, so all you have to do is stop by and pick up your meal.

Tapatias Taqueria

12501 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111

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Our journey around Northeast Ohio wouldn't be complete without a trip to the excellent Tapatias Taqueria located in Cleveland. Originally known for its legendary street tacos, this restaurant has grown into one of the city's best all-around Mexican restaurants. It's a casual dining destination with all of your favorite Mexican meals on the menu, along with a full bar serving the best Mexican beer and spirits. Everything on the menu is made from scratch, with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors. You can place your order online with the full lunch/dinner menu available for delivery throughout the Cleveland area, or stop by this neighborhood favorite to pick up your food at the curb.

El Rincon Mexican Restaurant

3212 Tuscarawas St. W, Canton, OH 44708

When you're searching for a family-style Mexican meal in Canton, be sure to make a trip to El Rincon Mexican Restaurant. During these unique times, El Rincon is offering drive-thru pickup, so you can grab your favorite Mexican dishes without ever leaving the comfort of your vehicle. There are extensive specials available for both lunch and dinner, with steak, seafood, chicken, and vegetarian dishes available. Be sure to check out the website for some great coupons and deals before you order.

Los Gauchos Taqueria

5221 Godown Rd., Columbus, OH 43235

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You'll have no shortage of outstanding options for Mexican food in Columbus, including the popular Los Gauchos Taqueria. While everything on the menu is excellent, Los Gauchos Taqueria is especially well-known for its famous Tacos al Pastor. These delicious tacos feature marinated pork, pineapple, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and other fresh ingredients to create a unique flavor profile. The original restaurant was so popular that there are now four locations in the city, so you can always find a convenient place to enjoy your Mexican favorites.

Fiesta Jalisco

2700 Northland Plaza Dr., Columbus, OH 43231

A colorful, inviting restaurant with a reputation for serving excellent, contemporary Mexican meals, Fiesta Jalisco stands out among a great selection of Mexican restaurants in Columbus. The menu here is focused on the unique combination of Spanish and Indian flavors that have influenced Mexican cooking for centuries, with fresh ingredients that bring out the best in every meal. Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite or a full, satisfying meal, you're sure to find what you seek when you order from Fiesta Jalisco.

Mi Mexico Restaurant

4775 E. Main St., Columbus, OH 43213

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Known for its enchiladas, shrimp quesadillas, nachos supreme, and much more, Mi Mexico Restaurant is a classic Columbus dining destination with a reputation for excellence. Everything is made fresh to order, and there are always new daily specials when you're in the mood for something different from the regular menu. There's also a unique rewards program, perfect for regular customers who want to earn a delicious, free meal. Place your order online for quick, convenient service, then pick it up at the curb or enjoy fast delivery throughout the Columbus area.

Veracruz Mexican Grill

Incline District, 3108 Price Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45205

Family owned and operated with a convenient location in the middle of Cincinnati's Incline District, Veracruz Mexican Grill has long been a local favorite. Looking for a local Mexican restaurant with an extensive menu of vegetarian options? Then Veracruz Mexican Grill is sure to satisfy your craving. Of course, there are plenty of other great options on the menu as well, with all of the meat on the menu marinated in house. Place your order online for takeout/delivery during lunch and dinner hours every day.

Mazunte Centro

611 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Living in Cincinnati means you're never far from your next great meal, and Mazunte Centro is a perfect place to start when you're in the mood for Mexican food. The menu here is as simple as it is delicious, with tacos, tostadas, tortas, tlayudas, soups, and a tempting selection of sides. There are multiple delivery options so you can use your favorite delivery service, along with convenient carryout options so you can skip the line.

Los Potrillos Mexican Restaurant

316 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45220

With soups, salads, steak, burritos, appetizers, and so much more, Los Potrillos Mexican Restaurant brings the flavors of Mexico to the heart of Cincinnati. There are unique daily specials available every day of the week, including drink specials on some of your favorite Mexican drinks from the bar. Simply place your order online, schedule your delivery at your convenience, and get ready to enjoy an authentic Mexican meal from the comfort of home.

Tacos Aren't Just for Tuesdays

Which small business will you order from?

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, but planning the perfect date night might be tricky this year given indoor dining restrictions and health and safety concerns. However, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the holiday with your sweetie in the comfort of your own home. With so many fantastic Ohio restaurants offering Valentine's Day takeout, you can have a date night at your own dining room table or while watching your favorite movie.

Whether you're planning to celebrate with your special someone or just getting together with a group of friends, a delicious meal is at the center of every great Valentine's Day. Below are some of our recommendations for Valentine's Day takeout around Ohio.

Northeast Ohio

Michelangelo's Italian Restaurant & Wine Bar 

2198 Murray Hill Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

Nothing says romance quite like a classic Italian dinner, so we recommend trying Michelangelo's Italian Restaurant in Cleveland. With exquisite Italian cuisine prepared by award-winning chef Michael Annandono, this restaurant is absolutely fantastic. The menu features a variety of pasta, meats, and fish, and for dessert, you can enjoy some of the best Tiramisu in Cleveland. Takeout is available for both pickup and delivery, and you can place your order online.

Don's Pomeroy House

13664 Pearl Rd., Strongsville, OH 44136

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If you're just south of Cleveland, you might want to consider Don's Pomeroy House for takeout this year. This historic restaurant is on the National Register of Historic Places and is also a popular Valentine's Day destination.  They serve a variety of winter comfort foods like Kobe Meatloaf and Chicken Parmesan as well as seafood sources from all over the world. If you'd prefer not to dine-in this year, you can order your food to-go, or for a truly romantic option, reserve one of their outdoor winter igloos.

L'Albatros

11401 Bellflower Rd., Cleveland, OH 44106

Located in an old carriage house near Case Western Reserve University, L'Albatros is a classic Valentine's Day destination near Cleveland. This year, their entire menu is available for takeout so you can complement your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with some contemporary French cuisine. The French Onion Soup is a must-try and the braised pork shank with whole grain mustard sauce is a popular dish!

Columbus

Trattoria Roma

1447 Grandview Ave., Columbus, OH 43212

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For some delicious Italian dishes near Columbus, order a romantic dinner from Trattoria Roma. This restaurant has been open for over 30 years and offers all of your favorite pasta dishes with a personal touch. All ingredients are locally sourced, and they offer special takeout menus and specials that change monthly, so be sure to check out what they have in store for Valentine's Day. Carryout and delivery can both be ordered on their website.

The Pearl

641 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43215

Online ordering is available this Valentine's Day at The Pearl restaurant. This trendy, romantic establishment has two locations: one in downtown Columbus and one in Dublin, Ohio. The dinner menu has an excellent mix of seafood and modern dishes, and they also have a separate menu for their oyster room. Best of all, you can top off your stay-at-home Valentine's Day with one of their unique cocktail kits for two.

The Refectory

1092 Bethel Rd., Columbus, OH 43220

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Housed in a former church building, The Refectory has become a Valentine's Day tradition for many couples in Central Ohio. While they're open for limited dine-in seating, they also offer a wonderful three-course home dinner menu with French favorites like Boeuf Bourguignon and Roasted Cornish Hen. For dessert, try the Epiphany Cake — an almond frangipane baked in layers of puff pastry. They even offer a wide variety of cocktails to-go! Orders can be placed online, but they do request that you order home dinners at least one day ahead of time.

Cincinnati

Primavista

810 Matson Pl., Cincinnati, OH 45204

While this romantic Cincinnati destination is known for its view, they do have a delicious menu that is available for takeout this Valentine's Day. Primavista offers a fine contemporary menu with dishes from all areas of Italy. They really specialize in veal and fresh fish, and all sauces are made from scratch. If you're celebrating Valentine's Day with friends, Primavista is also offering a family-style menu with dishes that serve 4 to 6 people.

Sotto

118 E. 6th St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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For an excellent Valentine's Day dinner, try a takeout order from Sotto in downtown Cincinnati. Their takeout menu features delicious pasta classics such as Tortellini Con Zucca and Rigatoni Con Pomodoro as well as some classic Italian pork and seafood dishes. Not only do they have cocktail specials to go, they also have two bottle wine baskets available for purchase. For dessert, you have to try the famous ricotta donuts with sauce! Carryout can be ordered by phone.

Prime Cincinnati

580 Walnut St. #100, Cincinnati, OH 45202

This classic Cincinnati steakhouse is offering curbside carryout and delivery this Valentine's Day. Prime Cincinnati offers some of the best steaks in the area, with the highlight of the menu being the Ohio Reserve Waygu steak. They have a wide variety of seafood options that can be added to your steak to create the perfect surf-and-turf combination. The takeout menu features a create-your-own, three-course meal starting at $50 per person. If a romantic steak dinner sounds like a good Valentine's Day, be sure to try Prime Cincinnati.

Love is in the Air!

Where will you order your takeout this Valentine's Day?

According to noted writer and food critic A.A. Gill, breakfast is a commitment to "a new day, a continuing life." Share that uplifting sentiment throughout February, which has been designated as Hot Breakfast Month.

Do you have tried-and-true breakfast favorites, or do you like variety? Whatever your individual style is, you'll find plentiful options at these great breakfast restaurants around Columbus.

La Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro

1550 W. Lane Ave., Columbus, OH 43221

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Enjoy a European getaway without leaving Columbus. La Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro features the food and ambiance of a charming Parisian cafe. Owners Stan and Gigi use recipes passed down in their family for dishes such as French toast made with vanilla brioche. Breakfast isn't complete without one of the delectable pastries and baked goods made fresh onsite. Order online for quick carryout. Breakfast hours are 7 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekends.

Olive & Thyme Mediterranean Cuisine & Cafe 

4519 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43214

Did you make a New Year's resolution to eat healthier? Try the heart-healthy ingredients and bright flavors at Olive & Thyme Mediterranean Cuisine & Cafe. Their breakfast menu includes traditional dishes such as fatte, made with garbanzo beans cooked in house-blend spices and topped with garlic-infused yogurt. Lovers of classic breakfast can go with eggs scrambled in olive oil and seasonings and an optional side of lamb or beef sausage. Carryout and delivery available. Breakfast is served weekends from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Scotty's Cafe

2980 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43209

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Scotty's Cafe refers to itself as "the best-kept secret in town." But considering the restaurant has been in business since 1989, they're not having any trouble finding customers. Breakfast is served all day, including the specials, which start at just $5.95 for two eggs, toast or bagel, and coffee or tea. The real crowd-pleaser is the French toast, which one delighted customer likened to crème brûlée. Friendly, attentive service adds to the cozy vibe. Scotty's also offers both carryout and delivery. Hours are 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekdays.

RH Rooftop Restaurant

4120 Worth Ave., Columbus, OH 43219 

Fine dining at a hardware store? At RH Rooftop Restaurant, you can have a leisurely brunch before heading downstairs to pick out light fixtures or window treatments for your new home in Columbus. The upscale brunch menu includes items from the regular menu along with tempting breakfast dishes such as RH Scramble, with eggs, crème fraîche, avocado, and chives. Elegance of the food is matched by the luxurious glass and steel atrium setting with fountains and trellised London plane trees. Hours are 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. daily.

Katalina's 

1105 Pennsylvania Ave., Columbus, OH 43201

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Southern sass meets Latin flair at Katalina's, a funky cafe housed in a 100-year-old former gas station that's been featured in USA Today's 10Best. The main event at breakfast is the spectacular pancake balls. These fluffy spheres of goodness are stuffed with your choice of Nutella, dulce de leche, or pumpkin-apple butter. Katalina puts her own spin on migas, scrambling the eggs with crema, crushed Shagbark chips, and housemade spiced pepitas. The patio is open for dining seven days a week, plus carryout and delivery are available. Katalina's is open daily from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Stav's Diner

2932 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43209

When you want comfort for your stomach and your soul, head to Stav's Diner. As you walk in, the owner (yes, his name is Stav) will extend a warm greeting from behind the counter where he's preparing orders. In addition to a menu of classic breakfast dishes, Stav's offers rotating daily specials. One recent special was the Polish Cowboy, an omelet with kielbasa, green pepper, mushrooms, onions, and Swiss cheese. You can also order ahead for curbside pickup. Hours are 6 a.m. - 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. weekends.

Northstar Cafe

951 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43201

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Farm-to-table is more than just a trendy dining concept. Northstar Cafe uses locally-grown and artisan-produced products as part of its commitment to the environment and the community. The sweet potato hash adds a vegetarian twist to the classic breakfast dish with roasted beets, arugula, and red peppers. Several items can be made meat- and dairy-free, and the smoothies are a healthy breakfast on their own. Order online for curbside pickup. Northstar is open daily from 9 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Jack & Benny's Old North Diner

2563 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43202

Does the term "gut-buster breakfast" automatically cause you to salivate? If so, then longtime Columbus favorite Jack & Benny's is the place for you. Their Gut Buster is a towering stack of hash browns, potato pancake, bacon, ham, egg, sausage patty, and cheese topped off with country gravy and toast. Still not enough? Go for the James Buster Douglas, which doubles the portions. With dozens of omelet, pancake, and burrito options, there's a breakfast to suit any size of appetite. Jack & Benny's is open for dine-in and carryout. Hours are 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays.

HangOverEasy

53 Parsons Ave., Columbus, OH 43215

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Despite the clever name, you don't have to suffer from the previous night's overindulgence to enjoy the amazing breakfast dishes at HangOverEasy. Menu items bear names that follow the same quirky sense of humor, such as Walk of Shame, a breakfast sandwich served on a grilled, glazed buckeye donut. Their oatmeal pie pancakes with buttercream icing are the stuff dreams are made of. HangOverEasy has a second location on the Ohio State University campus. Order online for carryout or curbside pickup at both spots. Hours are 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekdays and 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. weekends.

Emmett's Cafe

744 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43206

Owners Ben and Michael Kelley wanted Emmett's Cafe to reflect their passion for their home town. Named after their young nephew, Emmett's has a distinct charm and personality that more than fulfills their mission. The One-Handed, a breakfast sandwich with prosciutto, egg, cheese, and rosemary aioli, is well-suited for dining on the go. Another customer favorite is the breakfast burrito, with ups the ante by adding tots, avocado, and salsa. Visit the website to order for contact-free carryout. Emmett's is open daily from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Which Came First?

So where do you stand on the eternal breakfast debate: break the yolks for a scramble, or go sunny-side-up?

Why not make 2021 the year you get to know the wonderful local businesses around Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati? Cutler Real Estate and LoLo Gifts want to get you started with January's selection of free offers.

January Gifts:

Canton: $10 Certificate

Akron: $10 Certificate

Cincinnati: Coffee and Pastry

Columbus: Coffee and Pastry

Wooster: Cookies or Cupcakes

Medina: Coffee and Pastry

Canton: $10 Certificate

Kozmo's Grille

37 - 1st St. SW, Massillon, OH 44647

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Don't feel like cooking? Kozmo's Grille has a tempting assortment of upscale bar food favorites such as house-made potato chips, hearthstone pizza, and gourmet mac and cheese. Dine in or order ahead for carryout.

About Kozmo's Grille

From its setting in a modestly updated historic building to its menu of elevated comfort food, Kozmo's Grille has a goal to be "just different enough." Customers keep coming back for their award-winning pizza, prepared with homemade dough and baked in a hearthstone oven.

Contact and Hours

330.832.8807

Monday - Friday 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Saturday 4 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Akron: $10 Certificate

Niko's Sandwich Board

1947 W. Market St. #104, Akron, OH 44313

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Who doesn't love a good sandwich? The healthy, made-to-order deli sandwiches at Niko's Sandwich Board include vegan and vegetarian options, so there's something to satisfy everyone's tastes.

About Niko's Sandwich Board

With its emphasis on fruits and vegetables, olive oil, herbs, and whole grains, the Mediterranean diet has gained acclaim as a heart-healthy way of eating. Niko's Sandwich Board features traditional favorites from the owner's home island of Ikaria, including falafel, curried lentil, garbanzo salad, and pita bread. 

Contact and Hours

330.794.5444

Monday - Friday 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Cincinnati: Coffee and Pastry

Red Tree Gallery and Coffee

3210 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45209

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Whether you're starting your day or need a quick pick-me-up, coffee and a pastry does the trick. Stop by Red Tree Gallery and Coffee for a freshly brewed cup of joe and locally-sourced pastry to go with it.

About Red Tree Gallery and Coffee

Red Tree Gallery and Coffee loves to showcase products and talent from the Cincinnati community. In addition to serving coffee and pastry from local vendors, Red Tree maintains a gallery where customers can view and purchase jewelry, paintings, and other works from regional artisans.

Contact and Hours

513.321.8733

Monday - Saturday 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Columbus: Coffee and Pastry

One Line Coffee - Short North

745 N. High St., Columbus, OH 43125

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One Line Coffee combines the finest globally- and locally-sourced ingredients for a menu of creative beverages for purists and adventurous souls alike. Pair your drink with a scratch-made cookie, muffin, or scone from OLC's own kitchen.

About One Line Coffee

Quality ingredients call for quality equipment. One Line Coffee uses the La Marzocco Strada LP, one of the rarest machines in the world, to pull espresso for their extensive offering of coffee drinks. Their signature honey and maple lattes are sweetened with products from nearby Honey Run Farm and Milligan's. Order online and your carryout order will be ready when you are.

Contact and Hours

614.564.9852

Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Friday 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Wooster: Cookies or Cupcakes

The Faithful Little Cupcake

116 N. Main St., Orrville, OH 44667

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If you have a sweet tooth, cupcakes are one of the four main food groups. You'll be hooked on these mini delicacies from The Faithful Little Cupcake, which are matched only by the excellence of their delightful cookies.

About The Faithful Little Cupcake

At The Faithful Little Cupcake, variety is the spice of life. Each day features a rotating selection from their 100+ flavors along with a core menu of the six most popular flavors. Not surprisingly, one of them is Buckeye Blitz, a chocolate cupcake topped with peanut butter buttercream, ganache, and a buckeye. Have a special occasion coming up? Ask about their custom-designed cupcakes and cookies. 

Contact and Hours

330.683.2253

Tuesday - Friday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Medina: Coffee and Pastry

Cool Beans Cafe

103 Liberty St., Medina, OH 44256

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When it comes to coffee, are you old school or do you go trendy with lattes and cappuccinos? Whichever you prefer, you'll come away happy after a visit to Cool Beans Cafe. Add one of their luscious pastries for a great light breakfast or midday snack.

About Cool Beans Cafe

Voted "Best Coffee in Medina County" the last seven out of nine years, Cool Beans Cafe literally has a winning formula. The espresso bar offers five different blends of brewed coffee, including Flavor of the Day, along with a full range of specialty drinks such as lattes, chai tea, Italian sodas, and smoothies. Customers have been impressed with the knowledgeable baristas and their ability to make special request drinks not on the menu.

Contact and Hours

330.723.7174

Monday - Saturday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Freebies Galore!

Who doesn't love free stuff? Every month, Cutler Real Estate teams up with LoLo Gifts to provide a new selection of offers designed to showcase local small businesses. 

It doesn't even cost anything to join! Just contact your Cutler Real Estate agent to get started.

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?