I make two trips a year (if possible) to the Cincinnati area to see my father and his wife. Normally, those are fairly quick three-day turnarounds, where I might have a chance to see something in the Queen City, but not always.
This year, for my spring trip to visit him, I’m making a “thing” out of it, making my way to a few places in Ohio, places I haven’t yet written about like I have Cincinnati. (By the way, you can see my Ultimate Guide to Cincinnati here. It’s a much cooler city than it gets credit for being.)
I’m excited about it. Despite Ohio becoming a rather lousy state politically, the major metro areas are diverse, tolerant (so I’ve been told), and have some cool things going on. So let’s see what it all ends up looking like.
Below is my basic itinerary. Activities are not things needing to be booked in advance, so they are subject to change. And yes, I’m open to some ideas, as well.
Day One – Los Angeles to Cleveland
It was cheaper to fly in and out of Cleveland than Cincinnati, so that’s where I’m starting. I have yet another red eye flight in (seriously, it’s crazy how many overnight flights I’ve ended up on this year), but at least it means I can get my car, get some coffee, and do something. Today, the plan is Lake View Cemetery, final resting place of President James Garfield, John D Rockefeller, and more. And yeah, I love old cemeteries!
Days Two and Three – Cleveland
First off, I have family in Cleveland, so I’ll be seeing them. But I also want to explore a city I’ve only visited once, and then only for a day back in my former (non-writer) life. One day will be a hike in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. I love the parks and haven’t been to this one. Can’t wait!
The other day will be spent downtown, with my focus being the International Women’s Air and Space Museum, honoring the amazing women in that industry. Some Cleveland BBQ will also be in order, though we will see how articles shake out since it’s hard to put those two things together.
Day Four – Cleveland to Cincinnati
It’s at least a few hours’ drive on the interstate, and I’m not sure I’ll make any stops. I’ll probably just head straight down and see my dad.
Days Five and Six – Cincinnati
As I mentioned above, visits don’t necessarily mean I get to do something to write about. If I do have time, or if my dad is feeling up to joining for something, I’d still love to visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Or maybe the Cincinnati Zoo. We will see how it all goes. For sure there will be more Cincinnati chili.
Day Seven – Cincinnati to Columbus
I’ve never been to Columbus, so I’m carving in an afternoon and evening to see a bit. I’ll probably focus downtown, but may just walk around, see the Ohio Capitol, and see what the vibe is. Dinner with a friend will be an added treat.
Day Eight – Columbus to Los Angeles
After coffee, I’ll drive back to Cleveland to fly back home, with a nice gap in my US experience filled in.
It isn’t the most exciting of trips, but hey, I’m looking forward to seeing new places, learning new things, trying new foods, and sharing it all with you!
Below is a map of Ohio. Cleveland is the flag in the north, with Cincinnati in the south and Columbus between. As always, content here on The Royal Tour will be delayed at least a couple months, so hang with me on Bluesky for updates and photos.
