
Burying your nose in a good book is aĀ greatĀ way to leave your worries behind for a few hours. People who read typically have more active imaginations. Plus, reading can help ease stress and depression, prevent cognitive decline, and build your vocabulary. Whether you love mystery novels, non-fiction, or something in-between,Ā Northeast OhioĀ has several local bookstores worth visiting. Head to one of these book shops to find your next read.
10515 Larchmere Blvd., Cleveland, OH 44120
Located in the historic Larchmere neighborhood, this Cleveland bookstore first opened in 1994 and has kept readers happy ever since. They have more than 100,000 different titles in stock, including many on women's history and literature. Loganberry Books carries both new and used titles, including some leatherbound books and first editions. If you're not only a reader but a book collector, this is the place to go.
Loganberry books is open daily. Shoppers can join their Perks Program for free and earn a $10 coupon for every $100 spent. Perks Program members also get a bonus coupon on birthdays and extra store credit when they sell books.
1607 Golden Gate Plaza, Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
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Half-Price Books is a family-owned bookstore that sells secondhand books and other media. You can take them your already-read books to sell and go home with new titles to enjoy. The store has a good selection of books on philosophy, martial arts, and animals. The wide aisles and friendly atmosphere make it a great place to shop with kids.
Half-Price Books is open daily. They offer online ordering and curbside pickup, which are great if you're in a rush.
29 N. Franklin St., Chagrin Falls, OH 44022
Fireside Book Shop has been serving Northeast Ohio since 1963. The store has an old-fashioned appeal but in the best way. They not only have a great selection of books, but also countless puzzles, greeting cards, and board games. The helpful staff members can help you find the perfect book, whether you're shopping for yourself or a loved one.
Fireside Book Shop is a woman-owned business and is open daily. Their Trade-In Program is a customer favorite, allowing shoppers to trade in their used books for store credit. Stop by regularly, and you'll always have something new to read.
204 N. Main St., Hudson, OH 44236
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The Learned Owl Book Shop has been open on Main Street since 1968. Although the shop is small, its selection of books is incredible. The owner knows everything on the shelves and is very helpful. They also have a children's nook and a selection of adult coloring books.
This bookstore is open daily and is within walking distance of many great cafes and restaurants. You could spend an afternoon pickingĀ outĀ a book, walking around the neighborhood, then treating yourself to a nice meal.
1921 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
If you find yourself in Cleveland, stop by Horizontal Books and browse their shelves. This shop sells overstock books. If you purchase one, you saveĀ 50% off the standard retail price. Purchase more than one, and you save even more. Horizontal Books brings in new titles every day, so there's always something else to discover.
Horizontal Books is open daily from 10 am - 6 pm. They're in the process of opening up their own coffee shop, too.
1820 Coventry Rd., Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
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Mac's Backs-Books on Coventry is a one of the largest bookstores in Ohio. They have three stories of books and community rooms where they host educational events. This shop has a great sci-fi collection and lots of young adult fiction. The entire basement is full of non-fiction titles.
Mack's Backs is walking distance from Case Western Reserve University and is therefore popular with college students. Keep an eye on their website for events such as book signings, writing workshops, and liveĀ readings.
14948 Chillicothe Rd., Novelty, OH 44072
If you're looking for a specific rare or antique book, Novelty Shop is the place to go. This boutique book store sells used, rare, and antique books, along with a small selection of other antique items. You'll find original hardcovers of classics, leatherbound books, and first editions galore.
Novelty Shop has been open since 1999 and is frequented by many of Ohio's book collectors. You're bound to learn something just by stopping in and taking a look around.Ā
2258 Professor Ave., Cleveland, OH 44113
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Visible Voice Books wants to make reading cool again. This independent bookstore has a very relaxed, inviting atmosphere and stocks titles in almost every genre. But they also have so much more than books. There's a bar and coffee shop where you can grab your favorite drink to sip while you read. Selections include craft beers from Fat Head and Left Hand Brewing. They even host wine tasting events.
Inside Visible Voice Books, there is also a neighborhood pizza shop called Crust. So, you can enjoy lunch, find a new book, and buy a bottle of wineāall under one roof. The shop isĀ open Tuesday-Sunday.
Where will you discover your new favorite novel? Let us know which one of these bookstores feels most like home.

While modernĀ carousels are a beloved amusement ride,Ā they have their roots in a combat preparation exerciseĀ from the Middle Ages. Knights attempted to spear small rings hanging overhead as they galloped in a circle. Commoners eventually adapted the game with the beginnings of our current form.
Did you know that the first carousel in the United States was builtĀ in the 1840s by Franz Wiesenhoffer in Hessville, OH? Our state is still recognized as the home of many incredible carousels, including those in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870
Everyone knows that carousels are a traditional part of any respectable fair, carnival, and amusement park. Not surprisingly, Cedar Point takes their carousel gameĀ to a whole new level, with three carousels that make frequent appearances on top-10 lists. The Kiddy Kingdom Carousel, dating back to 1925 and features 52 animals, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Next is the Midway Carousel, built in 1912 and operating at Cedar Point since 1946, making it the park's oldest ride. Finally, challenge family and friends to a spin on the Cedar Downs Racing Derby, one of only two racing carousels in the United States. Visit the website for hours and ticket pricing.
75 N. Main St., Mansfield, OH 44902
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In honor of the ride's European origins, Richland Carrousel Park uses the French spelling of the word in its name. This delightful park features the first new hand-carvedĀ carousel constructedĀ in the United States since the 1930s, built at nearby Carousel Works. Scenery panels on the carousel depict Malabar Farm, Richland County Courthouse, and other iconic locations and notable figures from the local area. Carousel rides are $1, with discounts for purchases ofĀ 6 or 50 rides. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday.
505 Euclid Ave., Akron, OH 44307
Environmental education and awareness provide the theme for the Conservation Carousel at the Akron Zoo. The hand-carved figurines are likenesses of 33 animals from around the world, ranging from a ladybug and a penguin to a Komodo dragon,Ā a peacock chariot that's wheelchair accessible, and a baby moose that contains a time capsule from 2010. Sustainable wood, repurposed concrete, and other green initiatives were incorporated in the construction of the carousel. Rides are $2 per person. Zoo admission is $14 for adults and $11 for ages 2-14. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily through October 31. Visit the website for seasonal hours.
160 S. High St., Columbus, OH 43215
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In 2011, the historic City Center grounds were transformed intoĀ Columbus Commons, a 6-acre park in the midst of the beautiful downtown area. The centerpiece attraction is a hand-carved carousel with 18 charmingĀ figurines, including the OSU Buckeye horse, a frog prince,Ā and a clown fish. Ohio Stadium and Franklin Park Conservatory are two of the hand-painted scenesĀ decorating the canopy. Carousel rides are also a popular draw for Commons for Kids, held each Friday through August 12 from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Rides are free at all times. Park hours are 7 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily.
3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220
Carousels are generally thought of as rides for youngsters. That's not the case at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, where their Conservation Carousel is one of the more popular attractions during adults-only events such as Toast of the Wild. Of course, the carousel is a big hit with kids as well. Zoo members often upgrade their memberships at the prompting of their children, who like the unlimited carousel rides that are included. Standard pricing for rides is $3.Ā Mark your calendar for 2023, when the zoo's new carousel will be installed. At twice the size of the current carousel, this version will feature 65 animals in a vintage open-air gazebo perched alongside Swan Lake. Admission ranges from $9.50-$25.Ā The zoo is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. through October 31. Visit the website for seasonal hours.
4850 Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065
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After viewing real birds and wildlife in person, check out colorful recreations on the Grand Carousel at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. The historic 1914 Mangels-Illions carousel revolves to the sounds of a fully restored band organ that plays periodically throughout the day. Rides are $2 per person.Ā If you want the real experience, enjoy a camel ride for $7 or a pony ride for $5. Zoo admission is $16.99 for adults and $11.99 for ages 3-9. Prices are higher for non-Franklin County residents. The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. through August. Visit the website for seasonal hours.
Travel to the continent ofĀ Africa on the carousel at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. The sole African carousel in the world lets you ride atop 42 exotic animals, such as giraffes, zebras, and gorillas. Artwork on the canopy showcases many of the featured animals in their native habitats. Rides are $3 per person, with passes available for multiple rides at discounted rates. Zoo admission is $24 for adults and $21 for ages 2-11, with an additional $2 charge for non-Lucas County residents. Visit the website for hours.
301 Jackson St., Sandusky, OH 44870
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Inspiration for the Merry-Go-Round Museum came from a series of carousel stamps issued by the U.S. Postal Service in 1988. Appropriately, the museum is housed in a former Sandusky Post Office building listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition to watching activities in the restoration shop, visitors can ride the museum's vintage 1939 Allan Herschell carousel as the band organ plays the classic "oom-pa-pa" sounds. The original figurines were unavailable, so the carousel is populated with pieces from the museum's collection or on loan from private collectors. Admission, including one ride token, is $6 for adults and $4 for ages 4-14. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday through Labor Day.
When it comes to your preferred carousel mount, do you go old-school with the horses, or do you make a dash for one of the other animals?

Now that summer is upon us,Ā there are many outdoorĀ activities that families can enjoy together, such as biking, hiking, picnics, sports, and more. But what happens when the sun goes away, and rain clouds appear? Being stuck inside playing video games and watching movies sounds like fun, but there are so many other things to do.Ā
Cincinnati isĀ chock-full of exciting places to visit, and many of them are perfect for a rainy summer day. We can't list them all, but we've compiled a list of our favorites found inĀ Cincinnati and the surrounding areas we're sure will surprise and delight your entire family.
1330 Monmouth Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45225
There's little doubt that the American Sign Museum will be one of the most unique attractions you'll visit in the Cincinnati area. Although the art and history of signs and sign-making might not seem like something kids would enjoy, we think they'll love the spinning signs, flashing lights, and pop culture imagery. This is a great way for kids and adults to learn about something that's just a little unusual.
980 Loveland Madeira Rd., Loveland, OH 45140
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Even though roller rinks may not be as trendy as they used to be, they continue to be a fun time for kids and adults. Castle Skateland is a family-owned and operated place of entertainment and features the largest skate floor in the greater Cincinnati Tri-State area. Its bright and friendly atmosphere will be very welcoming on a rainy day, and you can also treat your kids to a variety of music, arcade games, food, and drinks.
662 Cincinnati Mills Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45240
While your kids probably have plenty of console games at home, you simply can't beat a good, old-fashioned arcade. With more than 60 arcade games and pinball machines, gaming console stations, and giant projection screens, the only bad thing about Arcade Legacy is that your kids might not want to leave. You can also check out the media store, where you'll find movies, comic books, board games, action figures, artwork, and other collectibles.
9501 Union Cemetery Rd., Loveland, OH 45140
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Nothing says summer fun quite like expending some of that built-up energy that every child seems to have at all times. Mosaic Climbing provides an exciting indoor adventure for kids and adults of all ages. If you've never been there before, that's perfectly fine. You'll go through a short orientation and be given access to different climbing areas designed for a variety of skill levels and ages.
We're going to cheat a little by adding the Recreations Outlet to our list because it's such an awesome place. They feature many outdoor activities like trampolines and playground equipment, but that won't help you when it's pouring outside. But they also offer several items perfect for creating an indoor game room,Ā such as table tennis, foosball, and shuffleboard. This will give you an alternative to keeping kids inside only to watch them play video games all day.
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Since being voted the top family entertainment center in the world, Scene75 has had a lot to live up toāand it never disappoints! There are more than a dozen indoor attractions, including go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, bumper cars, mini-bowling, and a 4D motion theater. You'll also be treated to a huge game room with more than 100 arcade games, in addition to air hockey and several redemption games where you win tickets that can be exchanged for prizes.
2692 Madison Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45208
If you're looking for something a little low-key, you may want to head over to Joseph-Beth Booksellers. This is easily one of the best bookstores in Cincinnati and the surrounding communities. Parents and kids alike will be able to find plenty of books to choose from, including hugely popular favorites and a bunch of indie titles. In addition to a large selection of books, they also have games, toys, planners, puzzles, clothing, and a whole lot more.
5897 Pfeiffer Rd. Suite B, Blue Ash, OH 45242
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This huge indoor playground and party place is incredible. As soon as you and your kids walk into theĀ Run Jump-n-PlayĀ facility, you can see their excitement build up as they gear up to start running around everywhere. The facility is filled with swing sets, basketball hoops, trampolines, and more. There's also a large area for birthday parties and other special events.
8 E. Mehring Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
If you're looking for something simple but fun, head to Carol Ann's Carousel. Not only is this carousel an amazing work of art that features 44 different characters, it's simply a great way for children to have fun and relax. This carousel can stay open all year round because it's enclosed in glass, making it perfect for aĀ rainy summer day. Your kids will even be able to watch the droplets hit the glass as they ride their favorite horse, tiger, or other animal.
With so many incredible places to duck indoors and avoid the rain, whereĀ will you and your family choose to go?Ā

Summer weather, fantastic food, family fun, and fabulous fireworks can only mean one thing in Northeast Ohio. It's time to celebrate the 4th of July, and, as always, communities across Northeast Ohio will be pulling out all of the stops to celebrate this special day. You're sure to find a great place to celebrate July 4th close to home, and many local events include so much to see that they're spread across multiple days. Get ready to celebrate Independence Day with these eight amazing July 4th events around Northeast Ohio.
Cahoon Memorial Park East ā 27134 Lake Rd., Bay Village, OH 44140
The fun starts early in Bay Village, with the Bay Days 2022 Festival kicking off on June 30 and lasting all the way until the big day on July 4. There will be live music from a different band every night at the park gazebo, along with a Classic Car Cruise-In with live DJ, a Vintage Baseball Game featuring two local club teams, and a Children's Bike, Trike & Wagon Parade. Throughout the festival, attendees can also enjoy carnival rides, delicious food from local vendors, and informative booths from community organizations. It's all capped off by the Gala Fireworks Display, which takes place after dark on the 4th of July.
Weiss Field ā 33401 Webber Rd., Avon Lake, OH 44102
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The Avon Lake Independence Day Celebration, Concert & Fireworks begins at 5:30 pm on Friday, July 1 and lasts until the fireworks light up the sky late in the evening. In between, you'll enjoy an on-stage Independence Day Celebration, along with live performances from Anne E. Dechant, Seeing Scarlet, and a Dave Matthews Tribute Band. Some of your favorite local food trucks will be there all evening to provide outstanding meals, with Jones Bones BBQ, Off the Griddle, Fired Up Tacos, Cathy's Cle & Kona Ice, and Kountry Krunchins among the food trucks set to appear at the celebration.
Mill Stream Park ā 1200 Maple St., Valley City, OH 44280
For a full day of fun on the 4th of July, try a trip to the Valley City 4th of July Parade, Car Show, Music & Fireworks celebration at Mill Stream Park. Begin your day with the 4th of July Parade, which travels down State Route 303, West River, School Street, and Maple Street before ending at Mill Stream Park. Then stick around at the park for the Classic Car Show in the afternoon while enjoying some great concessions for lunch. The evening features a live performance from Soundcheck, followed by a wonderful fireworks display after dusk.
Hoover High School ā 525 7th St. NE, North Canton, OH 44720
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Held on the large lawn in front of Hoover High School, the North Canton Community Celebration & Fireworks Display is packed with fun for the whole family. It all starts at 5:30 PM when the food vendors, face painting stations, and children's activities open for the evening. The Scenic Route will be taking the stage a bit later in the evening, playing all of the hits from the past five decades in a free outdoor concert. Of course, you won't want to miss the fireworks display, which takes place shortly after the band leaves the stage.
Bicentennial Park ā 115 E. Pioneer Trail, Aurora, OH 44202
Looking for a healthy, fun way to start your July 4th celebrations? The Aurora July 4th Fun Run, Parade, Festival & Fireworks starts early in the morning with a 5k fun run with awards for the top three finishers in every age bracket from kids to seniors. The July 4th Parade starts after the fun run is complete, followed by the Festival & Grand Marshall Celebration, which lasts all afternoon into the evening, and the fireworks display, which kicks off after dusk.
Tuscora Park ā 161 Tuscora Ave. NW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663
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One of Northeast Ohio's largest July 4th celebrations takes place in New Philadelphia, where the 45th annual First Town Days Festival, Parade & Fireworks features five days packed with events from morning through evening. Whether you're interested in a Fishing Derby, Frog Jumping Contest, Turtle Races, Wiffleball Tournament, or some more conventional Independence Day fun, you're sure to find it during this festival. Events take place throughout New Philadelphia, with many of the biggest attractions being located at Tuscora Park.
Orr Park ā 440 N. Elm St., Orrville, OH 44667
The Orrville Fire in the Sky 4th of July Celebration is part carnival, part softball tournament, and all family fun. The softball tournament is a major attraction, with three days of games at Orr Park to crown a champion. While the tournament is happening, visitors of all ages can enjoy a free carnival featuring food, carnival games, and rides that the kids are sure to love. It all wraps up on the evening of July 3 with one of the biggest fireworks displays in Northeast Ohio.
Lock 3 ā 200 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44308
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Always one of the most anticipated events of the summer in Akron, the Rib, White & Blue Festival is a four-day event focused on fantastic food and live music. There will be a free concert during every night of the festival at Lock 3 in downtown Akron, with Monica Robbins & The Whiskey Kings, Bruce in the USA, Georgia Players Guild Best of Queen, and Creedence Relived all taking the stage on separate nights. The fireworks in Akron take place after the conclusion of the Rubberducks game on July 4, and Lock 3 offers great views of the display.
Where will you celebrate the red, white, and blue this July?

Did you know that every June 15 is Nature Photography Day? While there's never a bad time to capture the natural beauty of Ohio, this day provides the perfect excuse to explore the scenery of your favorite communities and take some great photos in the process. Whether you're exploring glacial, urban waterfalls in Northeast Ohio, gorgeous gardens around Columbus, or an ancient, world-renowned historic site near Cincinnati, you're sure to capture something special. Start your photography journey with our guide to nine of the best places around Ohio to capture nature for Nature Photography Day.
136 E. Bagley Rd., Berea, OH 44017
One of the cool things about Ohio cities is how opportunities for nature photography are seamlessly integrated into urban landscapes. The Berea Falls Scenic Overlook, located a short drive from the heart of Cleveland, is one great example. After the glaciers receded following the last ice age, melting water formed rivers that reshaped the landscape. The Berea Falls were created by water from the Rocky River, carved through the abundant sandstone around Berea. There's so much natural beauty to capture here, with a different look every season.
6947 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, OH 44264
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Also located a short drive from Cleveland is the vast Cuyahoga Valley National Park, which features some of the most spectacular scenery that you'll find anywhere in Ohio. The park is located around the Cuyahoga River, with a mix of forests, rolling meadows, and farmland, all connected with an extensive, well-maintained trail system. Brandywine Falls is one of the most popular natural sites within the park and a perfect destination to seek out for nature photography. There's a viewing deck near the falls that makes it easy to get a great photo, as well as a nearby trail that allows you to capture images from various angles.
123 McKinley Ave., Youngstown, OH 44509
Did you know that Ohio is home to the second-largest metropark in the United States, behind only Central Park in New York City? Mill Creek Park covers more than 2,500 acres, with a diverse selection of attractions located within park borders. There are beautiful gardens, lush wetlands, waterfront scenery, historic structures, and so much more to capture. Spend your day near the historic Lanterman's Mill, the Fellows Riverside Gardens, or the Ford Nature Center. The D.D. and Velma Davis Education & Visitor Center is the ideal place to start your journey at Mill Creek Park.
480 E. Town St., Columbus, OH 43215
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If you love art just as much as you love nature, then the Topiary Park in Columbus is one destination on our list that you definitely won't want to miss. It's home to one of the world's largest, most impressive topiary gardens, with 80 perfectly maintained life-size topiaries. The topiaries are laid out in a way that recreates a painting from the post-Impressionist era painter Georges Seurat.
75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316
Located less than an hour west of Columbus, you'll find the idyllic, natural setting of Historic Clifton Mill. Home to one of the few working grist mills in Ohio, Historic Clifton Mill is a great destination for blending nature and historical photography. The mill itself is a beautiful structure, which has been preserved to look and work just as it did during its heyday. The natural woodlands, serene creek, and gently flowing waterfalls surrounding the mill provide endless opportunities for capturing the perfect photo.
8701 Laymon Rd., Gambier, OH 43022
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With more than 50 acres of beautifully manicured gardens to explore, Schnormeir Gardens will keep you coming back again and again for nature photography. Many of the gardens here were created in the Chinese and Japanese styles, with abundant water features blending in with natural scenery. There are lakes, waterfalls, streams, woodlands, bridges, and beautiful, exotic plants to discover. Spring and summer are ideal times to visit for photography, with so many of the plants within the gardens in full bloom.
12075 Shore Dr., Loveland, OH 45140
Part historic landmark, part tribute to an order of knights, Loveland Castle is unlike any other destination on our list. It is, after all, a castle that looks like it was plucked straight from the medieval era and dropped into modern-day Ohio. The castle itself is more than worthy of some dedicated time with the camera, and the natural beauty around Loveland Castle makes this a fun destination for nature photography. While you're there, check out the on-site museum to learn more about how and why a stone castle was built in the 1920s around the corner from Cincinnati.
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Here's another truly unique destination with a history that stretches back thousands of years to a time when Ohio looked very different than it does today. The Serpent Mound was built by the Adena tribe of Native Americans who called the area home thousands of years ago, stretching for 1,300 feet and built in the shape of a serpent. It's the largest effigy mound of its kind in the world and still stands out among the wooded, hilly landscape even after thousands of years. So if you want to capture something unique to Ohio which can't be found anywhere else, this is the perfect place to find it.
1501 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45202
The Cincinnati area is also home to some more conventional locations for nature photography, including some like the Krohn Conservatory, which doesn't even require you to leave the city. Created in 1933, the Krohn Conservatory is home to thousands of plants from around the world, with different "houses" holding plants from different parts of the world. The Palm House replicates a tropical rainforest environment, while the Desert House is attuned to plants that thrive in an arid, hot landscape with minimal rainfall. The Krohn Conservatory is also home to the Orchid House, which showcases orchids from all around the world, and the John Carroll Bonsai Gallery, which highlights the unique techniques used to grow bonsai trees.
These nine destinations are just the start of what you'll find in Ohio. From limestone caverns deep underground to the rolling, rustic landscape of Amish Country, there's so much to explore. What will you capture next?