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Hello, Cleveland!

| Chris

A bucket list checked. Here I am, finally! In the city that rocks. I had the chance to wander its streets and soak in the vibes for a little bit.

My friend and I arrived late in the afternoon and decided to spend the rest of the day meandering around the Voinovich Bicentennial Park, nestled right on the shores of Lake Erie. Actually, we just wanted to find where the Cleveland script sign is and this is where the GPS led us. Yes, we’re playing tourist now. As usual, we parted ways and agreed to meet up where we parked at sundown.

As I stepped onto the East 9th Street Pier, Lake Erie stretched out before me, shimmering. You can see the lake, of course, and look back at downtown’s tall buildings, as well as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But that’ll have to wait till the next day.

Next morning, after a quick breakfast we hit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. As a musician, I was ecstatic! The iconic glass pyramid structure stands proudly on the waterfront, beckoning rock music fans of all flavors. Inside, I immersed myself in the legends, the riffs, and the rebellious spirit that defined an era. From Elvis to Nirvana and beyond, the exhibits celebrate the artists who shaped our musical landscape.

Once we’re all rocked out, we decided to waltz on over next door to the Great Lakes Science Center. This place is like a playground for curious minds. Interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and even a giant wind turbine, all dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of science. Plus, the views of Lake Erie from the center’s windows are nothing short of breathtaking.

Next stop, the USS COD Submarine Memorial. Docked nearby, this World War II-era submarine is a living piece of history, responsible for sinking Japanese ships in WWII. And I was told that the COD performed the only international sub-to-sub rescue in history when it saved the crew of a grounded Dutch submarine. Cool!

Lastly, I strolled downtown as the sun was beginning to set. I checking out the buildings and sights. I went past the Cleveland Convention Center, Willard Park, and the City Hall among others.

Well, that’s all we could cram in for the day. Cleveland, you’ve got soul. Your skyline dances with history, your lakefront whispers tales of bravery, and your music echoes forever. Thank you for a wonderful time.

Discovering the Heart of Ohio

| Chris

First time in Columbus, Ohio and grateful for the chance to visit. This is a city that often flies under the radar but is brimming with hidden gems and delightful surprises. I didn’t see them all with the limited time we had but made the most out of it by just walking around for a few hours. It was a pleasure exploring this Midwestern hub.

We drove into Downtown Columbus, just aimlessly checking out the sights. The Scioto Mile is cool, a stunning riverfront promenade with breathtaking views and a sense of serenity amidst the urban hustle. Then we stumbled upon Arnold Schwarzenegger’s 8 feet tall bronze statue by accident. A little piece of Hollywood in the heart of Ohio. Nice find!

Next, I wandered over to Battelle Riverfront Park. This park isn’t just a green space; it’s a living museum. Monuments and memorials dot the landscape, each telling a story of the city’s past. From the Firefighters Memorial with its eternal flame to the Freedom sculpture.

Bicentennial Park was another highlight. And so was Genoa Park. This park offers a tranquil retreat with its amphitheater that boasts stunning views of the downtown skyline. It is used for concerts and events, or simply to sit back and watch the city light up as the sun sets.

COSI (Center of Science and Industry) was fun, too. This place is a wonderland for the curious mind, with hands-on exhibits that make science accessible and fun.

Finally, I stood before the World’s Largest Gavel, at the Ohio Judicial Center. It’s a colossal sculpture that’s as impressive as it is symbolic.

Columbus is definitely well worth a visit if you ever find yourself in the Buckeye State. A lovely place indeed.

A Tale of Two Cities

| Chris

Ah, Cincinnati! A city that’s as much a sensory feast as it is a tapestry of the old and new. Finally, I get to visit.

Downtown Cincy seems to be pulsating with life at all times! It’s a place where skyscrapers reach for the clouds while the streets below buzz with energy. The downtown area is a treasure trove of culture and history.

A short walk from downtown is the Smale Riverfront Park, connecting the city to the Ohio River. This park isn’t just a patch of green; it’s an interactive playground with water features, giant swings and other fun things.

I also got to walked the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge. And it’s more than just a way to get from point A to point B; it’s a walkable link to the past. When it opened in 1866, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world, and today, it offers a picturesque route from Cincinnati to Covington, KY.

Across the river is Covington’s Riverfront Commons. An 11.5-mile trail that’s a work in progress, aiming to connect six river cities. The Covington Plaza is a testament to the city’s revitalization efforts. With a 1,350-seat amphitheater and trails that link to the Riverfront Commons, it’s a hub of activity and a prime spot for enjoying the views of the Ohio River and the Cincinnati skyline.

And finally, you can’t go to Cincinnati without having Cincinnati Chili! I had the pleasure of experiencing the legendary Skyline Chili for the first time. This isn’t just any chili; it’s a Cincinnati institution, a unique blend of Mediterranean spices and American gusto. The rumors were true! It’s good stuff.

There you have it. My trip to Cincinnati and Covington was a delightful blend of urban exploration, riverside relaxation and a well-deserved food coma. Now, on to Columbus!