2023 Ohio Has It! Group Travel Guide

Columbus delivers experiences uniquely tailored to your groups. From traditional sites such as the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, Franklin Park Conservatory and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to far-from-ordinary experiences like pouring your own candle or taking a tour with your taste buds, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy. For guidance, visit experiencecolumbus.com/groups.

2023-24 OHIO HAS IT BOARD OF TRUSTEES

KELLY ASHBY, PRESIDENT

ZANESVILLE-MUSKINGUM COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

DIXIE LACY, VICE PRESIDENT CAMBRIDGE/GUERNSEY COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

KAREN EYLON

UNION COUNTY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

SHAWN STIDHAM BUTLER COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU

LEIANN STEWART MIAMI COUNTY VISITORS & CONVENTION BUREAU

BRIAN CHEEK DESTINATION GRANDVIEW

LORI KAPPES, IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT VISIT GAHANNA

EMILY SCHOFIELD OHIO HISTORY CONNECTION A.J. KINNEY GREAT DAY! TOURS & CHARTER BUS SERVICE

DENISE KRAUSS DESTINATION CLEVELAND CHRISTINE BEST VISIT PERRYSBURG PUBLISHED

DRIVING DISTANCES

TO CINCINNATI

Dayton 55 miles Louisville 100 miles Columbus 107 miles TO CLEVELAND Akron 40 miles Pittsburgh 135 miles Columbus 143 miles

TO COLUMBUS

Cincinnati 107 miles Cleveland 143 miles Toledo 143 miles TO DAYTON Cincinnati 55 miles Columbus 71 miles Indianapolis 117 miles

2023 ohio has it! group travel guide

SOUTHEAST REGIONAL ITINERARY

Clockwise from top left: The Wilds protects endangered animals; pieces of highly collectible Cambridge glass; the letterpress at JustAJar Design Press; the John and Annie Glenn Museum in New Concord; bronzes at Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio

By Graham S. Jones, courtesy Zanesville-Muskingham CCV

By Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio, courtesy Zanesville-Muskingham CCV

By Rick Lee, courtesy National Museum of Cambridge

By Bruce Wunderlich, courtesy JustaJar Design Press

By Rick Lee, courtesy John and Annie Glenn Museum

SOUTHEAST REGIONAL ITINERARY

Travelers can flex their creative muscles at workshops, studios and arts attractions around Marietta, Cumberland, Cambridge, Zanesville and the surrounding area.

JUSTAJAR DESIGN PRESS MARIETTA

In the historic town of Marietta, Ohio, groups will find JustAJar Design Press, a letterpress and design studio. Its owners, Sara and Bobby Rosenstock, produce custom woodcut and letterpress posters, logos and illustrations. These works of art are created using an old-fashioned technique: carving and inking blocks of wood and printing the designs onto paper using a Vandercook press. The studio’s work can be found all around Marietta, as local restaurants, publications and events use the custom designs for promotional posters and handbills. During a visit to JustAJar Design Press, groups can see hundreds of the company’s works on display and learn about the intricate letterpress process. The Rosenstocks are enthusiastic about sharing their work with visitors, so those who wander in might even catch a demonstration of this meticulous and time-consuming craft.

Top:

Wunderlich, courtesy JustaJar Design Press

THE WILDS CUMBERLAND

Looking for a safari in southeast Ohio? There’s no better place than the Wilds, a conservation park affiliated with the Columbus Zoo that’s dedicated to providing sanctuary for endangered animals while also providing entertainment and an education for those who visit. The 10,000-acre park began providing sanctuary to its first animals in the early 1990s and has been home to many endangered species since. Today that list includes visitor favorites such as cheetahs, giraffes, rhinos and zebras, all of which live in large, natural habitats so they have room to roam. Groups can encounter some of these exotic animals when they board a park bus for an open-air safari tour narrated by a park guide. The park also offers sunset safaris and zipline tours. Groups can dine at the Overlook Café, which offers a variety of sandwiches, wraps and salads, and then commemorate their trip with a souvenir from the gift shop.

THEWILDS.COLUMBUSZOO.ORG

Charming Visitors Since 1788

We were the first settlement in a new frontier over 225 years ago and our early pioneer spirit can still be felt throughout our community. Navigate our rivers, explore our shops, taste our cuisine and immerse yourself in our rich culture and history featured in David McCullough last book, The Pioneer.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF CAMBRIDGE GLASS

CAMBRIDGE

The Cambridge Glass Company produced colorful, elegant glassware that was known for its shine and its etched details. The company began making glass in 1902, and even though it closed in 1958, its name has endured because of the handiwork required to make its glass. Its pieces are also highly collectible, with each piece of the vintage glass considered a work of art and an example of the company’s fine craftsmanship. The National Museum of Cambridge Glass displays the glassware and celebrates the legacy of this Ohio company. During museum tours, groups can see 10,000 pieces of Cambridge glass, including rare and collectible pieces. The museum also gives visitors an interactive look at the glassmaking from start to finish, allowing them to examine tools used by artisans and feel the materials used to create the glass.

CAMBRIDGEGLASSMUSEUM.ORG

JOHN AND ANNIE GLENN MUSEUM NEW CONCORD

The first American to ever orbit the Earth also later became the oldest human to ever venture into space. John Glenn was an astronaut, World War II veteran and politician whose accomplishments set him apart from other earthlings and warranted a museum to honor his contributions to American history. Located in the boyhood home of the astronaut and U.S. senator, the John and Annie Glenn Museum gives visitors a look at American history through the lens of the beloved public figure and his wife. Groups can take a guided tour through the home, which was lovingly restored to its condition prior to World War II, for a look at all the ways American life has changed over the years. Visitors will also learn about Glenn’s life and his role in the space race and in politics through a series of exhibits, including films, photographs and artifacts.

JOHNANDANNIEGLENNMUSEUM.ORG

Glenn’s boyhood home as it looked before World War II

Courtesy National Museum of Cambridge Glass

There are 10,000 pieces in the Cambridge Glass collection.

Courtesy John and Annie Glenn Museum

Artifacts tell the story of John Glenn and his wife, Annie.

• Depart for NEW CONCORD

• Tour of the JOHN AND ANNIE GLENN MUSEUM

• Depart for ZANESVILLE

• Lunch at BRYAN PLACE

• Demonstration at ALAN COTTRILL SCULPTURE STUDIO

• Hands-on project with local artist SUSAN NASH

• Dinner at THE OLD MARKET HOUSE INN

• Evening entertainment at RENNER THEATRE

Alan Cottrill has created more bronze works than any living sculptor.

ALAN COTTRILL SCULPTURE STUDIO

ZANESVILLE

Ohio native Alan Cottrill had founded a successful fast food business before he discovered his love for sculpting and dedicated his life to perfecting his craft. The renowned sculptor’s most famous works include sculptures of historical figures such as Thomas Edison, Jesse Owens and numerous American presidents. Cottrill has created the largest number of bronze works by any living sculptor, and his art can be found at many prominent locations around the country, including the U.S. Capitol. At his studio in Zanesville, groups can see 300 of Cottrill’s works, including bronze busts, bells and life-size figures. The studio also displays pictures and educational exhibits about some of the sculptor’s most impressive works, his life and the process he uses to sculpt. Cottrill remains a prolific artist and continues to work in his studio, so visitors may even get the chance to meet him and watch as he creates his next masterpiece.

ALANCOTTRILL.COM

By Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio, courtesy Zanesville-Muskingham

CCV

Clockwise

from top left: Amish Country Theater stages holiday shows; a cozy fireplace at Arms Family Museum; A Christmas Story House draws crowds year-round; the famous leg lamp at A Christmas Story House

Courtesy Amish Country Theater

By Kayla Lupean for ThisisCleveland.com

Courtesy Mahoning Valley Historical Society By Kayla Lupean for ThisisCleveland.com

Holidays come alive with fun, entertainment and activities that celebrate the Christmas season in Cleveland, Youngstown, Medina, Dover and Ohio’s Amish Country.

ERNEST WARTHER MUSEUM CHRISTMAS TREE FESTIVAL DOVER

The Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens explores and honors the legacy of master carver Ernest “Mooney” Warther, who began carving as a child and eventually became one of the most esteemed carvers in the country. Many of his carvings are miniature locomotives, made of ivory and wood. His home became the museum, and it details his life and features many of his impressive carvings. For two weeks in November, the museum becomes a mecca of merriment during the Warther Tree Festival, when over 100 decorated Christmas trees and wreaths adorn the museum as they have annually for nearly 30 years. Each tree has a theme and is for sale, with proceeds benefiting the Cleveland Clinic Union Hospital Auxiliary. Groups can tour the museum, which includes Warther’s home and workshop; wander around the forest of Christmas trees; snap some photos; and take in the holiday scenery.

The Land of never

Old Thing

AMISH COUNTRY THEATER

HOLMES COUNTY

The Amish Country Theater, nationally recognized for delivering clean comedy, gives groups a good time, guaranteed. The comedy variety shows performed in the 600-seat auditorium range from award-winning ventriloquist acts to re-creations of famous comedy routines, all set on a stage that resembles a barn. This unique Ohio attraction is a treat for groups year-round, but it also offers plenty of special performances for those passing through during the holidays. From Thanksgiving to the New Year, the theater features a number of festive productions, such as Christmas in the Country and the New Year’s Eve Spectacular. These seasonal shows and concerts use the theater’s signature comedy sketches and performances of classic holiday music

delight audiences. Groups can enter the theater directly from the lobby of the new Berlin Encore Hotel,

Courtesy Amish Country Theater

Good, clean fun at the Amish Country Theater

Come for the unique shopping, farms, parks, museums and events, and be sure to stay for the fantastic dining experiences.

Our close proximity to Cleveland and Akron (you can travel to each within 30 minutes) makes Medina County a great group travel location.

Explore the many reasons to stay and play in Medina County.

CASTLE NOEL MEDINA

Billed as America’s largest indoor year-round Christmas entertainment attraction, Castle Noel opened in 2013 in Medina, a Cleveland suburb. A haven for Christmas enthusiasts, the museum boasts one of the world’s largest collections of Hollywood Christmas movie props and costumes. Its exhibits of popular toys from decades past and intricately decorated department store windows evoke memories of holidays past, which aligns with the museum’s mission to make every guest feel like a kid again. Groups can take a private tour of the museum’s displays and artifacts, see indoor snow, take a ride on the indoor slide, experience story time with the museum’s owner, and enjoy a luncheon of holiday favorites like turkey, stuffing, cranberry salad and a Christmas cookie. A trip to the museum gift shop allows each visitor to take a piece of the magic home with them. CASTLENOEL.COM

Whether

Living

By

A CHRISTMAS STORY HOUSE CLEVELAND

The holidays are rife with traditions, and one of the most recognizable is the annual round-the-clock Christmas Day television broadcast of the 1983 classic film “A Christmas Story.” The movie’s iconic scenes delight and entertain millions of viewers every year, and with a trip to Cleveland, the movie’s many fans can visit the mustard-yellow clapboard house used in the holiday film. The home looks just as it did in the movie, and its museum directly across the street displays some of its most memorable props, like the family’s 1937 Oldsmobile and Randy’s red snowsuit. Groups can enjoy the novelty and nostalgia of this attraction year-round during tours of the house, where they’ll learn movie trivia and see original movie costumes and memorabilia and behind-the-scenes production photos. They can also purchase their very own leg lamps or leg lamp cookie cutters and other movie-themed souvenirs in Ralphie’s Gift Shop.

ACHRISTMASSTORYHOUSE.COM

Kayla Lupean for ThisisCleveland.com

By Kayla Lupean for ThisisCleveland.com

A Christmas Story House

Randy’s snowsuit from “A Christmas Story”

photo:ScottLanz

MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS PAST AT THE ARMS FAMILY MUSEUM

YOUNGSTOWN

Thanks to the Mahoning Valley Historical Society, Greystone, an impressive Youngstown residence built in 1905 for Olive and Wilford Arms, is a repository of local history. On the preserved home’s first floor, stained-glass windows and other arts and crafts architectural features complement period furniture. On other floors, exhibits highlight local history and American life in the century since the home was built. The house museum is renowned for its annual holiday spectacular, Memories of Christmas Past, when it is adorned throughout with lights, trees and décor from different eras and countries. Each room is beautifully and ornately decorated according to its own theme. Many exhibits feature classic or rare holiday items, which groups can learn about on guided tours during the holiday season.

MAHONINGHISTORY.ORG/ ARMS-FAMILY-MUSEUM

Embrace the beauty of Kingwood Center Gardens during a lively tour through the enchanting gardens and mansion of a 47-acre paradise. Savor a tasty meal at the Gateway Café and find the perfect souvenir at the Kingwood Garden & Gift Shop.

Courtesy Mahoning Valley Historical Society

Holiday decor dazzles at the Arms Family Museum.

SOUTHWEST REGIONAL ITINERARY

Clockwise from top left: Painted silos are landmarks at Barn-N-Bunk Farm Market; shoppers load up at Jungle Jim’s International Market; Winans Chocolates is a longstanding tradition; Moeller Brew Barn is adding locations.

Courtesy Travel Butler County

Courtesy Moeller Brew Barn

Courtesy Travel Butler County Courtesy Winans

BARN-N-BUNK FARM MARKET TRENTON

Open from March through December, the Barn-NBunk Farm Market in Trenton is a sprawling market known for its large offerings of fresh produce, food products and home decor. Its three barns are stocked with candles, pottery and jewelry made by local vendors, as well as farm-grown seasonal fruits and vegetables. In addition to shopping, planned crafts and activities allow groups to create a decorative centerpiece, grind their own cornmeal and tour the farm’s broom shop. Fall brings fun festivities, including hayrides, scarecrow-making, a petting zoo, mazes and autumn-themed crafts, as well as tasty refreshments like apple cider and pumpkin cookies. For a sweet and refreshing treat year-round, there’s an ice cream and candy shop and a deli for quick bites.

BARNNBUNK.COM

JUNGLE JIM’S INTERNATIONAL MARKET FAIRFIELD

Just outside of Cincinnati, groups can find foods from every corner of the world at Jungle Jim’s International Market. What began as one ambitious vendor’s mission to combine excellent customer service with a wide selection of food products has grown to a well-loved attraction that draws customers across state lines. The store is supersized, its 300,000 square feet stocked with foods from over 70 countries including specialty ingredients and spices, obscure snacks, international wines, beers and other beverages, and tropical fruits. In addition to shopping, groups can take a tour of Jungle Jim’s to learn about and sample a variety of exotic foods as they hop from department to department. They can also have a scavenger hunt to discover some of the market’s most obscure products.

JUNGLEJIMS.COM

2023 ohio has it! group travel

Courtesy Travel Butler County

Barn-N-Bunk is the place for pumpkins.

LA COMEDIA DINNER THEATER

SPRINGBORO

La Comedia Dinner Theater has been bringing delicious meals with a side of showbiz to audiences since 1975. Located between Cincinnati and Dayton just off Interstate 75, the theater gives groups a chance to experience Broadway productions in a theater known for its glamorous décor, friendly staff and well-staged productions. One of the oldest dinner theaters in the nation and the only year-round professional theater in Ohio, La Comedia’s rotating schedule of Broadway and off-Broadway hits provides a live entertainment and culinary experience for groups to enjoy. Buffet dinners begin with a signature salad and include favorites like chef-carved meats, Southern sides and La Comedia’s signature sweet potato soufflé. Guests can also enjoy a cocktail, smoothie or milkshake with their meal.

LACOMEDIA.COM

Courtesy Warren County CVB

WINANS CHOCOLATES + COFFEES PIQUA

Winans Chocolates + Coffees has been bringing sweetness to Ohio for five generations using the same tried-and-true methods. Located in the quaint town of Piqua, Winans is the perfect place to sample a sweet treat or a delicious cup of freshly brewed coffee. The focus is on quality chocolates, which has made Winans a favorite throughout the state. Groups that visit can watch chocolates being produced through a shop window or take a behind-thescenes tour and discover how each delicious treat is made, from seeing peanut brittle stretched by hand to caramel mixed in original copper kettles. Visitors can also see where internationally sourced coffee beans are roasted daily. Tours can conclude with a tasting and a visit to the gift shop to buy boxes and baskets of chocolates and individual delicacies, as well as seasonal coffee drinks.

WINANSCANDIES.COM

MOELLER BREW BARN

TROY

Moeller Brew Barn first opened in the small town of Maria Stein in 2015, and the brand has been bringing craft beer to western Ohio ever since. Since it first opened its doors, Moeller Brew Barn has unveiled locations in three other Ohio towns, proving its popularity among locals and tourists alike. The second location opened in a historic Lutheran church in downtown Troy in 2019. Elegant architectural details such as stained-glass windows, wood trim, chandeliers and high ceilings make it a beautiful backdrop for the brewpub, but it’s the selection on tap that’s made Moeller Brew Barn a breakout in the craft beer scene. Over 20 beers, ciders and seltzers are offered at each location, from seasonal favorites to the brand’s original classics. The kitchen menu includes brick-oven pizzas, sandwiches and bar food favorites, such as nachos, wings and dips. Groups can enjoy the Troy brewpub’s historic setting and down-to-earth atmosphere while they sample its delicious food and craft beverages.

Burgers and other bar food go well with Moeller’s brews.

MOELLERBREWBARN.COM

FORT ANCIENT IS ON THE SHORT LIST TO BECOME A WORLD HERITAGE SITE.

OREGONIA

Winans Chocolates is in its fifth generation of family management.

Courtesy

Winans

Courtesy Moeller Brew Barn

Broadway Shows at the Schuster Performing Arts Center

The Citizens Motorcar Company/ America’s Packard Museum

CENTRAL REGIONAL ITINERARY

Clockwise from top left: Plants flourish at Greendigs; dried flower wreaths at the Ohio Herb Center; summer flowers at Mitchell’s Berries & Blooms; butterflies at Franklin Park Conservatory

Courtesy Greendigs Design Studio

By Levi Ely, courtesy Experience Columbus

Courtesy Visit Gahanna

Courtesy Mitchell’s Berries & Blooms

DUBLIN

day 1

MITCHELL’S BERRIES & BLOOMS

UNION COUNTY

Sweet berries, ripe vegetables and fragrant flowers are some of the growing season’s best offerings at Mitchell’s Berries & Blooms. The owners began their business selling raspberries in 2006, but the farm itself has been in their family’s hands for 200 years. From April through September, the farm grows crops to share with others, and people come from near and far to sample the delicious produce. Visitors can pick vegetables and fruit themselves, with appointments required during berry season due to berry picking’s popularity. Asparagus kicks off the growing season in April. From there, groups can pick and purchase strawberries in late May, raspberries in late June and a meadow full of flowers through the rest of the summer. Edamame closes out the farm’s offerings in September. The farm also hosts special events that groups can check out, such as sunset yoga, garden tea parties, floral design classes and much more. MITCHELLSBERRIES.COM

At Mitchell’s Berries & Blooms, there are fruits and vegetables to pick as well as garden tea parties, floral design classes and other events.

ZOAR

HARRIET

RUTHERFORD

Customers are surrounded by plants at Greendigs.

GREENDIGS DESIGN STUDIO

GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS

A plant lover’s paradise awaits in Grandview Heights, just outside of Columbus. Greendigs Design Studio is a plant and garden store that helps people grow what they love. The shop sells lush houseplants, outdoor plants and herbs, quirky pots, plant-themed books and gifts, as well as garden accessories and tools. It also doubles as an education center, hosting digital and in-person workshops. Greendigs helps customers design plant-friendly indoor and outdoor spaces, tend to their plants’ needs and use plants to improve their lives. Groups can attend a workshop, peruse the store’s wares and take home a houseplant of their own.

SHOPGREENDIGS.COM

fun FACT

MARION, ONCE THE NATION’S LARGEST POPCORN PRODUCER, IS HOME TO THE WYANDOT POPCORN MUSEUM, THE WORLD’S LARGEST COLLECTION OF VINTAGE POPCORN MACHINES.

MARION

• Depart for GRANDVIEW HEIGHTS

• Create a butterfly pollinator at GREENDIGS DESIGN STUDIO • Pour-your-own-candle experience at PENN & BEECH CANDLE CO. • German lunch at HOFBRAUHAUS COLUMBUS • Depart for COLUMBUS

• Guided tour of GERMAN VILLAGE • Dinner at THE BOAT HOUSE at CONFLUENCE PARK • Overnight at DRURY INN & SUITES COLUMBUS CONVENTION CENTER

Courtesy

Greendigs

Design Studio

The store offers advice to shoppers, as well as gardening workshops.

DINE ON A COVERED BRIDGE

MARYSVILLE

Marysville is known for its covered bridges, and at one point was home to over 200 of them. Through the years, these bridges were removed, replaced and rebuilt to keep up with modern infrastructure, and today only seven remain in the scenic countryside. Groups can check out those bridges on the Covered Bridge Trail to learn about the bridges’ history and about Reuben Partridge, the man who built over 200 covered bridges in his lifetime. A trip to Marysville and the Union County countryside would be incomplete without one of its signature offerings for groups, dining on a historic covered bridge. From April through October, groups can enjoy a delicious meal on the Pottersburg Bridge, built in 1873 and later moved to its current location to preserve it. Dishes made from fresh, local ingredients are served under the roof of the iconic red bridge while groups enjoy live folk music, storytelling and lively conversations in an open-air setting.

By Levi Ely, courtesy Experience Columbus

FRANKLIN PARK CONSERVATORY

COLUMBUS

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, as it’s known today, opened in 1993, but the gardens and conservatory have been delighting horticultural enthusiasts for over a century. The John F. Wolfe Palm House, a glass greenhouse opened in 1895, is among the property’s oldest buildings. Today, the conservatory and gardens make up 13 acres of the 88-acre Franklin Park. Here, groups will find several exhibits replicating distinct biomes from around the world, including mountains, deserts, rainforests and a water garden. Each year, the Pacific Island Water Garden biome becomes home to hundreds of tropical butterflies as part of the conservatory’s “Blooms and Butterflies” exhibit. Groups can check out the plant life of each biome and view the park’s collection of bonsai trees and stunning Chihuly glass artwork. They can also take a scenic walk in the outdoor botanical gardens and eat at the Garden Café or the park’s food truck.

FPCONSERVATORY.ORG

OHIO HERB CENTER

GAHANNA

Just outside of Columbus is the town of Gahanna, known as the Herb Capital of Ohio. The Ohio Herb Center, located in a historic home downtown, celebrates the area’s herbal history. It educates its visitors about the many benefits of herbs, from health and wellness to cooking and cleaning. Classes and workshops are regularly offered on varied subjects like teas and tonics, the language of herbs, natural hair care, and cooking

Courtesy Franklin Park Conservatory

Clockwise, from top left: lantern-led tours at Fort Meigs, Halloween thrills at Cedar Point; fresh brews at Bait House near Lake Erie; Maumee Bay, Toledo’s first craft brewery

Courtesy Fort Meigs

Courtesy Destination Toledo

Courtesy Shores and Islands Courtesy Shores and Islands

sites and haunted

— along with some local brews — during a three-day trip through Sandusky, Port Clinton and Toledo during the Halloween season.

day 2

funFACT

SANDUSKY

MAUMEE BAY BREWING COMPANY

TOLEDO

Maumee Bay Brewing Company, Toledo’s original craft brewery, was established in 1995 in The Oliver House, a 19th century hotel in the city’s historic downtown. This local haunt is rumored to be home to more than craft beer — paranormal happenings have been reported there. Its selection of craft beers and ciders range from seasonal lagers to IPAs. In addition to beverages on tap, groups can enjoy wings, pretzels, sandwiches and burgers. The menu also features wood-fired pizzas, seafood and steaks. The brewery also is a hit for live music and annual events. Groups can have a great meal and craft beverages as they soak in the soul of this Toledo staple.

MBAYBREW.COM

CLINTON

BAIT HOUSE BREWERY

SANDUSKY

Near Lake Erie, groups will find Bait House Brewery, a bait and tackle shop that was turned into a brewery in 2017. As Sandusky’s first microbrewery, it provides its customers with an exceptional selection of craft beers but also keeps with the maritime theme of the lakeside Ohio community. The locally owned and operated business serves signature brews, including IPAs, porters and wheat beers. Patrons will also find hard ciders, seltzers and housebrewed root beer. The menu features fresh-caught walleye and perch from Lake Erie and stone-fired pizzas alongside traditional bar food like burgers and hot dogs. A meal might also include live music by local artists.

BAITHOUSEBREWERY.COM

Signature brews and fresh-caught walleye draw crowds to Bait House Brewery.

SANDUSKY WAS AN IMPORTANT UNDERGROUND RAILROAD SITE, AND HARRIET BEECHER STOWE WOVE SANDUSKY INTO HER BOOK UNCLE TOM’S CABIN (1852).

Courtesy Shores and Islands

Courtesy Destination Toledo

Maumee Bay Brewing Company

Experience Lake Erie Love

Enjoy endless group-friendly attractions in Shores & Islands Ohio . From a ferry ride to the Lake Erie Islands, guided excursions aboard an open-air tour train, to thrilling amusement activities, plus more! The team at Shores & Islands Ohio can put together customized itineraries for your needs. Let us help plan your group adventure! Find your Lake Erie Love at groups.SHORESandISLANDS.com.

Goodtime I at Jackson St. Pier, Sandusky

RUTHERFORD B. HAYES PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUMS

FREMONT

While not a part of the official presidential library system, the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library and Museums is thought to be a model for all the presidential libraries that came after it. The 19th president was an Ohio native, and his estate, Spiegel Grove, became a museum and memorial after his death. In addition to housing Hayes’ collections and personal artifacts, it’s also a popular group tour stop, especially during the fall. In October, groups can head to the historic estate where they’ll be regaled with spooky tales and haunting legends around a campfire during Spirit Stories. They can check out museum exhibits that explore Ohio’s mythical creatures, get a souvenir picture with a ghost and take lantern tours of the estate. Hot chocolate, cider and popcorn provide sustenance as visitors experience the chilling sights and sounds of Spiegel Grove. RBHAYES.ORG

Hayes, an Ohio native, was the 19th president.

FORT MEIGS GARRISON GHOST WALK TOUR

PERRYSBURG

Fort Meigs was constructed in present-day Perrysburg to withstand attacks from British forces during the War of 1812. It lived up to its purpose, successfully defending American lines during two separate sieges despite heavy loss of life. The fort has been rebuilt several times in the two centuries since it was first constructed, and it continues to educate visitors about the War of 1812 and honor the sacrifices of the American soldiers who lost their lives defending it. For a history lesson that doubles as a spooky delight, groups can visit this American battlefield and historic site during October for its Garrison Ghost Walk. On these lantern-led tours of the fort and its grounds, visitors will hear stories around campfires of unexplained paranormal happenings at the fort, including sightings of ghostly soldiers, floating lights and the sounds of cannon fire.

FORTMEIGS.ORG

day 3

• HALLOWEEKENDS event at CEDAR POINT

HALLOWEEKENDS AT CEDAR POINT SANDUSKY

From mid-September through October, HalloWeekends at Cedar Point are a chance to experience autumn-themed wonders and delightful frights. This popular tradition, held Thursdays through Sundays, is a Halloween-themed addition to the amusement park’s attractions, rides and roller coasters. During the day, groups make their way through hay mazes and eating Halloween treats. Darkness at the park brings Scare Zones with haunted houses, trails and mazes that crawl with ghouls and monsters. Groups can also catch ghostthemed shows, enjoy appearances from their favorite spooky characters and have their fortunes told. When it is time for refreshments, Cedar Point turns up the heat with spicy chicken tenders and jalapeño-loaded potato wedges and delights patrons with Halloween-themed sweets like pumpkin rolls, deep-fried fudge and cupcakes topped with shards of sugar that look like glass.

CEDARPOINT.COM/EVENTS/ HALLOWEEKENDS

Courtesy Cedar Point

Scare Zones crawl with ghosts and monsters during Cedar Point’s Halloweekends

Central Ohio

DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATIONS

DESTINATION GRANDVIEW 614-453-4295 destinationgrandview.org

EXPERIENCE COLUMBUS 614-221-6136 experiencecolumbus.com/groups/

MARION CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 740-389-9770 visitmarionohio.com

UNION COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 937-642-6279 visitunioncountyohio.org

VISIT DUBLIN 614-792-7666 visitdublinohio.com

VISIT GAHANNA 614-418-9114 visitgahanna.com

ATTRACTIONS

FLINT RIDGE ANCIENT QUARRIES AND NATURE PRESERVE 800-283-8707 ohiohistory.org

NEWARK EARTHWORKS 800-589-8224 ohiohistory.org

OHIO HERB CENTER 614-642-4372 ohioherbcenter.org

OHIO HISTORY CENTER AND OHIO VILLAGE 800-686-6124 ohiohistory.org

OHIO HAS IT! MEMBERS

OHIO HISTORY CONNECTION 614-297-2300 ohiohistory.org

WARREN G. HARDING HOME AND MEMORIAL 800-600-6894 ohiohistory.org

DINING/RESTAURANTS

HOFBRÄUHAUS COLUMBUS 614-294-2437 hofbrauhauscolumbus.com

Northeast Ohio DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATIONS

DESTINATION CLEVELAND 216-875-6648 thisiscleveland.com/group-tour

DESTINATION MANSFIELD - RICHLAND COUNTY 800-642-8282 destinationmansfield.com

MEDINA COUNTY VISITORS BUREAU 800-860-2943 visitmedinacounty.com

OHIO AMISH COUNTRY 330-674-3975 visitamishcountry.com

TUSCARAWAS COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 800-527-3387 traveltusc.com

VISIT CANTON 800-552-6051 visitcanton.com

WAYNE COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 800-362-6474 wccvb.com

YOUNGSTOWN LIVE - MAHONING COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 800-447-8201 youngstownlive.com

ATTRACTIONS

GREATER CLEVELAND AQUARIUM 216-862-8803 greaterclevelandaquarium.com

HARTVILLE HARDWARE 330-877-9353 experiencehartville.com

HARTVILLE MARKETPLACE AND FLEA MARKET 330-877-9353 experiencehartville.com

LEHMAN’S 800-438-5346 lehmans.com

MCKINLEY PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARY AND MUSEUM 330-455-7043 mckinleymuseum.org

GAHANNA IS THE HERB CAPITAL OF OHIO.

2023 ohio has it! group travel guide

MUSEUM OF CERAMICS 800-600-7180 ohiohistory.org

NAUTICA QUEEN CRUISE DINING SHIP 216-696-8888 nauticaqueen.com

SCHOENBRUNN VILLAGE 800-752-2711 ohiohistory.org

SHAKER HISTORICAL MUSEUM 800-860-6078 ohiohistory.org

YOUNGSTOWN HISTORICAL CENTER OF INDUSTRY AND LABOR 800-262-6137 ohiohistory.org

ZOAR VILLAGE 800-262-6195 ohiohistory.org

DINING

HARTVILLE KITCHEN RESTAURANT AND BAKERY 330-877-9353 experiencehartville.com

LODGING

HAMPTON INN AND SUITES CANTON 330-491-4335 hilton.com/en/hotels/cakbmhx-hampton-suites-canton/

HAMPTON INN YOUNGSTOWN WEST I-80 330-544-0660 youngstownwest.hamptoninn.com

HILTON GARDEN INN CLEVELAND/TWINSBURG 330-405-7687 clevelandtwinsburg.hgi.com

HOME2 SUITES BY HILTON CANTON 330-491-9714 hilton.com/en/hotels/cakncht-home2-suites-canton/

OHIO HAS IT! MEMBERS

fun FACT

MARYSVILLE IS HOME TO THE SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY. VISITORS CAN SHOP AT THE ORIGINAL HARDWARE STORE, OPENED BY O.M. SCOTT IN 1868.

MARYSVILLE

SHORES AND ISLANDS OHIO 419.625.2984 shoresandislands.com

VISIT GREATER LIMA 419-222-6075 visitgreaterlima.com

VISIT PERRYSBURG 419-874-9147 visitperrysburg.com

ATTRACTIONS

ARMSTRONG AIR AND SPACE MUSEUM 800-860-0142 ohiohistory.org

COOKE-DORN HOUSE 877-734-1386 ohiohistory.org

FORT MEIGS 800-283-8916 ohiohistory.org

HOME2 SUITES BY HILTON YOUNGSTOWN WEST 330-505-9935 home2suites3.hilton.com/en/hotels/ohio/home2-suites-byhilton-youngstown-west-austintown-YNGAUHT/index.html

RECEPTIVE OPERATORS

GREAT DAY! TOURS AND CHARTER BUS SERVICE 800-362-4905 greatdaytours.com

Northwest Ohio DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATIONS

GREATER GRAND LAKE VISITORS REGION 419-394-1294 seemore.org

ROSSFORD CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 855-765-5451 visitrossfordohio.com

FORT RECOVERY MUSEUM AND MONUMENT 800-283-8920 ohiohistory.org

HAYES PRESIDENTIAL LIBRARIES AND MUSEUM 800-998-7737 ohiohistory.org

Southeast Ohio

DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATIONS

CAMBRIDGE/GUERNSEY COUNTY VISITORS AND CONVENTION BUREAU 740-432-2022 visitguernseycounty.com COSHOCTON VISITORS BUREAU 740-622-4877 visitcoshocton.com

GALLIA COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 740-446-6882 visitgallia.com

MARIETTA-WASHINGTON COUNTY

CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 740-373-5178 mariettaohio.org

ZANESVILLE-MUSKINGUM COUNTY

CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 740-455-8282 visitzanesville.com

ATTRACTIONS

ADENA MANSION AND GARDENS 800-319-7248 ohiohistory.org

CAMPUS MARTIUS MUSEUM 800-860-0145 ohiohistory.org

JOHN AND ANNIE GLENN MUSEUM 866-473-0417 ohiohistory.org

NATIONAL ROAD AND ZANE GREY MUSEUM 800-752-2602 ohiohistory.org

OHIO RIVER MUSEUM 800-860-0145 ohiohistory.org

U.S. GRANT BIRTHPLACE 800-283-8932 ohiohistory.org

OHIO HAS IT! MEMBERS

Southwest Ohio

DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATIONS

CINCY REGION 859-261-4151 cincyusa.com

CLERMONT COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 513-732-3600 discoverclermont.com

DAYTON CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 800-221-8235 daytoncvb.com

GREENE COUNTY OHIO CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 937-429-9100 greenecountyohio.org

MIAMI COUNTY VISITORS AND CONVENTION BUREAU 937-339-1044 homegrowngreat.com

TRAVEL BUTLER COUNTY 513-860-4194 travelbutlercounty.com

WARREN COUNTY CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 513-204-7040 ohioslargestplayground.com

ATTRACTIONS

CEDAR BOG NATURE PRESERVE 800-860-0147 ohiohistory.org

FORT ANCIENT EARTHWORKS AND NATURE PRESERVE 800-283-8904 ohiohistory.org

GREAT WOLF LODGE 513.459.8885 ext 5529 greatwolf.com/mason

HARRIET BEECHER STOWE HOUSE 800-847-6507 ohiohistory.org

JOHN RANKIN HOUSE 800-752-2705 ohiohistory.org

JOHNSTON FARM AND INDIAN AGENCY 800-752-2619 ohiohistory.org

NATIONAL AFRO-AMERICAN MUSEUM AND CULTURAL CENTER 800-752-2603 ohiohistory.org

PAUL LAURENCE DUNBAR HOUSE 800-860-0148 ohiohistory.org

SERPENT MOUND 800-752-2757 ohiohistory.org

U.S. GRANT BOYHOOD HOME AND SCHOOLHOUSE 877-372-8177 ohiohistory.org

2023 ohio has it! group travel guide

happiness.

What will you find in Ohio? From the lush vineyards of Wine Country to handcrafted treasures in Amish Country, every corner of Ohio is ripe with ways to savor time spent together. Discover how each of Ohio’s Inviting Regions welcomes you!

Plan your next adventure at Ohio.org