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Click Here to view all of Christi's Pictures.  The Winery at Wolf Creek
No fancy picnic basket, just a plastic grocery bag filled with turkey sandwiches, Doritos and Yatzee and we were off to the Winery at Wolf Creek. Late afternoon sunshine still spotlighted thick green grass on a rolling hill that leads into an even more spectacular view of a lake and a dense wall of trees as far as you can see. The smallest chunk of concrete poked up through park-like setting marking the only evidence that the commotion of downtown Akron was just miles away. That's a snapshot of the view off the patio and deck of this uncommon winery in Norton. Couples were cozy'd up, while other groups, birthday parties and families filled the picnic tables or threw blankets on the ground and settled in for a summer night in the country. That's what's so great about the Winery at Wolf Creek, they'll serve the wine and provide the lovely setting for your evening out. Most folks seemingly opted to bring their own dinner and snacks, which varied from buckets of fried chicken to French Brie and jellies. At least three pizza delivery guys came and went. Who will you meet at the Wolf Creek Winery? As many or a few people as you choose. Some come for private time and that's usually obvious right away, while others seem open to talk about the wine and take in the scenery. A ridiculously reasonable 25 cents will get you a taste of the wine before you commit to a whole glass or bottle and the staff seems ready to walk you through the wine-tasting process. It can get busy in the tasting room as guests seemed just as eager to get a seat inside as out. Oh and fellas - This is definite first-date material. It's been called one of Ohio's most romantic spots. Couples seem to be swept away as they stroll the vineyards hand-in-hand. Only 7miles from the Akron Radio Center on West Market Street.  Recommended! The Winery at Wolf Creek 2637 South Cleveland-Massillon Road Norton, OH 44203 330-666-9285 www.wineryatwolfcreek.com FALLS RIVER CRUISE Another weekend, another No Tank Trip. This time to the Front Street Mall in Cuyahoga Falls. You may have seen kids playing in the water spouts on the mall or attending one of the weekend festivals, but did you know there is a tour boat awaiting you right there at the shore of the Cuyahoga River near the Fountain? One hour and three scenic miles along the river takes you back in time with a history of the Indian tribes who once lived on the banks and where they've gone. Of course we all know by now that Cuyahoga means Crooked River, but you'll hear so much more from the crew on the local wildlife, vegetation, bridges and pivotal events in Cuyahoga Falls history. All while taking in this treasure, relaxing in the breeze and watching the sunshine dance off the water. Long gone are the days of the burning river jokes in Northeast Ohio. They've been replaced with pride in the multitude of recreational activities this river has to offer. 100 miles of fishing, kayaking, bird watching and just plain sightseeing expertly woven through our cities and towns From the peaceful babble of the Cuyahoga over those river-worn stones to the mighty rush of its many falls, our unique river that flows both north and south has survived being an oil and debris dump and has managed to flourish thanks to the hard work and diligence of individuals, groups and organizations like those at the Falls River Cruise. Only $5 and 7.5 miles from the Akron Radio Center, I hope your family enjoys the tour as much as mine. Right Up There! Falls River Cruise North Pier Boardwalk 330-971-8372 ON THE WEB SZALAY'S FARM MARKET You don't have to look far to find something fun and inexpensive to do. These No Tank Trips have been a enjoyable learning experience. Sue Wilson, the Program Director and morning co-host at WQMX asked me if I,d ever been to the Szalay's Farm Market down in the Valley. The one with the corn, I asked. That's the one. She'd just been with a friend the weekend before and assured me it was a solid No Tank Trip idea. Not only was she right, she was there! Just a coincidence I guess that she decided to go back. After my experience I know I will. It may seem a little "corny," but that new August corn, roasted and dipped in butter (and salted) and fresh squeezed lemonade was just what I needed to get out of the rushed state-of-mind everyone seems to be in perpetually. Or it could've be the fresh berry bowls, ice cream or the huge outdoor patio to take in the cornfields and blue sky. At Szalay's you can get excited about big pink lady apples and crispy green beans without feeling foolish. Everyone else is there for the same reason. They offer samples of many of their goods and most of your fellow shoppers are kind enough to use the tongs provided and only take one. This farmers market grows most of their produce right on the farm or bring it in from other local farmers, businesses and bakeries. Fresh picked fruits and vegetables are the specialty at Szalay's Farm Market - and by fresh picked I mean the sweet corn is picked that very day. Shop the locally-made baked goods like cinnamon bread, pretzel loaves, honey, jelly and colorful flowers bouquets while you're there. Then come back in the fall. Szalay's wraps up the season with fresh pressed cider, and homemade apple fritters, giant pumpkins, hay rides and a 3-acre corn maze. This quaint little farmers market offers a place to settle in for the laid-back set and a refreshing breather for the cyclists along the Riverview Trail. It's open pretty much every day from June to October. The hours are 9-7 and it's located in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. No charge and only 7 miles from the Akron Radio Center on West Market Street. Highly recommended! 4563 Riverview Rd Peninsula, OH 44264 (330) 657-2727 NOAH'S LOST ARK Did you know there's an exotic animal shelter near Berlin reservoir? Real life big cats like African Lions, Leopards, Siberian and Bengal tigers. You'll have an up-close look at bears, wolves and monkeys who've had a hard life up until now. Some have been abused and neglected. One tiger named Ming had been cooped up in a New York City apartment for 2-1/2years before he was given a second chance and a permanent home here at Noah's Lost Ark. It's very peaceful here. Sure, it's a natural environment for the abused animals to recuperate but its not all heavy and sad once you get there. You'll find plenty of petting and feeding opportunities for the kids at this safe haven for donkeys, llamas and big birds. It's evident the sanctuary cares deeply for the animals and it's obvious the residents know they have found a permanent and secure shelter they can call home. At only $6.50 per adult, $5 for kids Noah's Lost Ark is great place to take the family enjoy the outdoors, picnic in the sunshine and take home souvenirs from the gift shop, all while supporting a group committed to instilling respect toward these mistreated animals. 40 miles from the Akron Radio Center on West Market Street, Noah's Lost Ark was certainly a hidden spot that's not your ordinary zoo.  Noah's Lost Ark 330-584-7835 www.noahslostark.org HORSEBACK RIDING When I started doing these No Tank Trips a couple months ago, I kind of had a mental list of specific adventures to seek out and experience. Horseback riding was one of them, but I had a feeling it might be hard to find. Think about it, how many commercials have your heard advertising horse back rides here in the Akron area? Thankfully, someone had heard about Camp Y-Noah. A YMCA run camp that extends across 250 acres of wooded trails. The Firestone Equestrian Center is located off Christman Road in Clinton and doesn't have a huge marketing budget for the media splash that it deserves. Skilled riding instructors are there to mount up with you, on their own horse (of course). No need to double up. There are plenty of these beautiful creatures to go around. Experienced riders and beginners will love their day spent with these horses. Mine was Sampson. They said he'd been there for years. Many in the barn and corral had been donated, but others were boarders whose owners were cool with the camp using them for riders like me. He was saddled up and ready to move and I had my goofy, protective helmet on - Now all that needed done was getting me on the horse. I guess I hadn't thought this through completely. Swing this leg over that leg without throwing yourself over the horse and onto the ground on the other side? Hmmm. OK, that done it was time to start over thinking the next steps - how to sit, hold the reins, say whoa. Apparently laying down on Sampson's back and throwing my arms around his neck was not an option. Not to worry, the instructors pretended not to notice my moment of panic and gave me the step-by-step. The horse knew the rest. It was kind of a follow the leader situation as we hit the well-worn trails. Our leader and the Equestrian Center Director, Susan Garside gave our group a guided tour, which strangely included an old hearse in the woods. We learned that was for the hayrides planned for Halloween. She'd just recently brought her horse from Wyoming, having just moved back to Ohio and seemed most comfortable sitting atop it. At one point I noticed Sampson was edging a little too close to her horse. I thought mine was trying to take the lead position or something, but she explained they use the twitching tail of the horse ahead as a fly swatter of sorts for their ears. I'll admit, it was quite warm and the flies were certainly out, but I was grateful for the handy limbs I had at my disposal. Especially since I'd just met Susan and thought she might be a bit uncomfortable if I employed the same technique. I even got to make a couple of nickering noises which I'm sure were answered by some snickering noises from the equine-wise, but it was a great experience. I'm so glad I did it. An instant "cowgirl?" No, I am not. But I loved meeting the folks at the camp and I'm looking forward to taking my toddler when she's old enough. Just call and make reservations. Flexible days and times are available. 20 miles from the Akron Radio Center on West Market Street and you'll only pony up $25 a person, Firestone Equestrian Center at Camp Y-Noah!
Highly recommended! The Firestone Equestrian Center Susan Garside 330-896-1964 ext 127 www.akronymc.com/camp/ynoah/equestrian FIRST & MAIN IN HUDSON You've got to carve out a couple hours in your busy life to take a walk around First & Main in Hudson. Now, hold on. I know I said Hudson, but that doesn't have to mean hoity-toity.
First & Main is a charming collection of shops, eateries and businesses in one quaint location. Red brick roads and old-fashioned storefronts keep the historic feel of downtown Hudson alive, but the modern shopping and dining is what brings people back for more.
Cars and motorcycles lined the First & Main blocks of shops as we met friends there last weekend. We came for the Sunday brunch at The Vue restaurant. We found a huge layout of breakfast/lunch items from filet, sausage, bacon and eggs to made-to-order omelets by the Vue's chef. Spicy shrimp, fruit, pastries and pies are just a few of the delicious items you should splurge on at this trendy spot. The Vue offers outdoor dining, party rooms and a generous bar at not so stuffy prices. The Vue is just one of the many dining choices here. Middle eastern, Italian, Spanish and Mexican cuisine can be found off the cute streets of First & Main. A stroll through town provided us with a unique shopping experience. Especially interesting was Uniquely Ohio. Jewelry, home decor made by local artists and merchandise and apparel to Ohio colleges and universities. Toys, shoes, books and even flowers and shrubbery are on display at this special spot nestled away inside the cozy embrace of Hudson. Close to the highway off 303, but miles away from the generic atmosphere of your local strip mall. Bring your kids and let them blow bubbles and play ring around the rosy in the large grassy courtyard and take time to enjoy the weekend in the sunshine at the coffee shops, pizza joints or comfortable benches set up for you at First & Main. Only 16.5 miles from the Akron Radio Center on West Market Street, First & Main in Hudson is a nice escape from the mundane with a lovely assortment of shopping and dining for Northeast Ohioans.  Recommended! |
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