Posts in category 'Columbus And Central Ohio'

There is no shortage of options when it comes to planning a vacation from Columbus — whether it's for spring break, a honeymoon or just a casual getaway. The John Glenn Columbus International Airport offers direct flights to hundreds of destinations all over the world, but there are also plenty of fun spots within driving distance. In fact, you probably won't need to drive more than six hours to find a dream vacation spot, and some are right here in our backyard. We rounded up the best road trip destinations within six hours of Columbus, so grab some snacks, roll the windows down, turn up the music and hit the road! Adventure awaits.

Hocking Hills

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When it comes to shopping, there's no better place to spend your time and money than at a small business or boutique. These shops often make their own wares or source small batches from other brands or artisans, resulting in unique looks and objects with plenty of personality. This rings true in fashion, kitchen goods, home decor and art, so whether you're looking to treat yourself or give a thoughtful gift, consider shopping local first. Here are 16 Columbus shops and boutiques we love! MEN'S AND WOMEN'S CLOTHING

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Whether you're looking to accomplish a new goal, make a lifestyle change or just explore new culinary horizons, eating healthy is something that many of us are trying to do more of this year. And luckily, eating healthier no longer means you have to stick to rabbit food. There are plenty of Columbus restaurants proving that nutrient-dense meals can also be packed with flavor! From juice bars to gastropubs and everything in between, here are the 11 healthy (and delicious) restaurants that should be at the top of your list. Enjoy!

Brassica

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A new year is upon us, which means many of us are vowing (once again) to make improvements to our lifestyles and revamp our fitness regimes. But contrary to popular opinion, working out doesn't have to be a chore. Columbus boasts a wide variety of fitness classes — all engineered to help you improve your strength, balance and overall health while building a community and trying something new. Who knows? You might even have a little bit of fun. Whether you're new to the fitness world or just looking for a new way to work up a sweat, there is bound to be a gym in Columbus that matches your personality. We rounded up the best personal training, dance, CrossFit, yoga, cycling, pilates and even parkour classes in the area to give you a head start on your 2018 resolution. A healthier you is just around the corner!

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Where does the time go? New Year's Eve is nearly upon us, which means we will be kissing 2017 goodbye and getting a start on our resolutions before we know it. But the year isn't over just yet — there's still time to squeeze in one more celebration! Sure, watching the ball drop from the comfort of your home might be nice and cozy, but the city of Columbus will host a number of family-friendly events, live concerts and swanky parties — all guaranteed to make for a memorable night. Where will you be when the clock strikes midnight?

Family-Friendly Events

First Night Columbus December 31 from 5:30 pm-midnight at COSI

Photo courtesy of First Night Columbus

This spectacular New Year's Eve celebration in the heart of downtown Columbus is one of the most anticipated events of the year! First Night showcases visual and performing arts celebrations that are safe, affordable, fun and alcohol free. The city will transform into a stage for your entertainment, and will draw people of all ages to join in the fun! AMF New Year's Eve Bowling Party December 31, all day at AMF Sawmill Lanes Join AMF for a New Year's Eve bash on the lanes! Whether you choose to celebrate during the day or just as the clock counts down to midnight, you will enjoy unlimited bowling, special holiday menus and more! NYE Roller Skating Celebration December 31 from 8 pm-12:30 am at Skate Zone 71 Roll into 2018 at one of the city's most popular skating venues! Skate Zone will stay open late on New Year's Eve for a family-friendly skate night. A $13 admission fee will earn you skate rentals, unlimited cheese pizza and beverages, noisemakers and a countdown to the New Year. New Year's Eve Train and Fireworks December 31 at 10:30 pm, Departing from Nelsonville on the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway Travel into 2018 by train! The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, located just a short drive from Columbus, will host a festive party on the tracks as the train travels to East Logal for a midnight fireworks display. Choose between two seating sections, wine and cheese for adults, or pizza and soda for the family.

Live Performances and Sporting Events

Clutch - Psychic Warfare World Tour December 31 at 6:30 pm at EXPRESS LIVE! Rock the night away at Columbus' newest venue, EXPRESS LIVE! Clutch will take the stage alongside Devin Townsend Project, The Obsessed and the Mike Wescott Band for their Psychic Warfare tour. New Year's Eve at Shadowbox Live! December 31 at 8:30 pm at Shadowbox Live

Photo courtesy of Tommy Fiesel via Shadowbox Live

At Shadowbox Live, the phrase "dinner and a show" is taken to a whole new level! Enjoy a delicious and inventive menu followed by a two-hour dance party, live rock and roll from the house band, BillWho?, party favors and the traditional champagne toast at midnight!

Grandview Café NYE Party December 31 from 9 pm-2 am at the Grandview Café The Grandview Café will throw a grand New Year's Eve bash! The party will feature two levels, multiple bars, and live music by Three Ton Toad. Grab some late-night eats from the kitchen (open until 11 pm), and toast to 2018 with a glass of champagne. The cover charge is just $15 per person. New Year's Swingin' Eve with the Rick Brunetto Big Band December 31 from 8 pm-1 am at the 94th Aero Squadron Restaurant Columbus   This elegant dinner and dance party will feature the Rick Brunetto Big Band, a 17-piece orchestra that knows how to keep guests on the dance floor! After enjoying a delicious dinner buffet, swing along to your favorite show tunes and classics, and ring in 2018 with a champagne toast at midnight. 2018 With the Eddie Pollina Band December 31 from 7 pm to 12:30 am at Valley Dale Ballroom The Valley Dale Ballroom will celebrate its 100-year anniversary (and the new year, of course) with a grand party featuring the Eddie Pollina Band. Enjoy hits from the 60s, 70s, 80s and now, delicious food from Made From Scratch Catering, a champagne toast at midnight and dancing! Tickets are $85 per person. Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Tampa Bay Lightning December 31 at 6 pm at the Nationwide Arena Don your red and blue, and get yourself down to the Nationwide Arena to cheer on the Columbus Blue Jackets as they face off against Tampa Bay Lightning! Your ticket to the game will also earn you free entry to several nearby New Year's Eve events (including parties at the Three Legged Mare and Big Bang Dueling Pianos), so make sure to hold on to it.

Parties and Special Events

Black & White New Year's Eve Weekend Celebration December 30 and 31 at the Doubletree Hotel, Times vary for events Join in the fun at the largest 30-and-up event in the midwest! The party will last two days, and will feature an impressive lineup of djs, day parties, fitness classes, happy hours and more — it's a true getaway. The weekend will conclude with an elegant black and white celebration where you can toast to the new year and dance the night away! New Year's Eve Party at the Three Legged Mare December 31 at 8 pm at the Three Legged Mare Ring in the New Year at the Three Legged Mare's annual bash! Presented by Jim Beam, the party will feature live music, drinks, party favors and more. The cover charge is just $10, which is waived if you present your ticket from the Blue Jackets game. New Year's Eve at the Big Bang Columbus December 31 from 7 pm- 2 am at Big Bang Dueling Pianos

Photo courtesy of Big Bang Dueling Pianos

Welcome 2018 with a bang at  Big Bang Dueling Pianos! Dance along to requested hits by the dueling pianos, and be prepared to sing along. VIP tables are also available for purchase, and will guarantee you reserved seating, New Year's Eve party favors, two premium drink tickets per person, one signature shot per person and a bottle of champagne for the table — aka, all of the ingredients you need to dance the night away!  Flannagan's New Year's Eve Celebration December 31 from 8 pm-2 am at Flannagan's Dublin Ring in the New Year at Flannagan's in Dublin! Tickets are just $10 and include access to an all-you-can-eat buffet, a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, two djs and a night full of dancing. Bill NYE 2018 December 31 from 7 pm-3 am at the 16-Bit Bar + Arcade For a more science-driven take on the traditional New Year's Eve party, join 16-Bit for the annual Bill NYE Bash! You will enjoy Bill Nye-inspired cocktails, a Science Guys marathon, and giveaways every minute from 11 pm to midnight. There is no cover charge, but space is limited! Reserve your spot today. Prohibition: NYE Masquerade Ball December 31 from 9 pm-12:30 am at Camelot Cellars 

Image courtesy of Camelot Cellars 

We might be entering a new year, but this event will transport you back in time — back to the era of glamour and speakeasies. Join Camelot Cellars for the 7th annual Prohibition New Year's Eve Masquerade Ball, where you'll be able to dance along to a live DJ, nibble on elegant hors d'oeuvre and desserts, and sip on cocktails and champagne. Dress to impress for this event, and don't forget your mask! Party Passport NYE 2018 December 31 from 9 pm to 2 am at Avalon, XO Nightclub and Havana Bar Three venues, two luxury party buses, and one cover price all add up to an unforgettable New Year's Eve Celebration! Experience the party at three of Columbus's top venues, Avalon, XO Nightclub and Havana Bar, for just $20. You'll travel to the next locale by party bus, so there won't be any gaps in the fun! NYE Party Columbus December 31 from 8 pm-2:30 am at The Renaissance Hotel The Renaissance will transform into a gigantic dance club on New Year's Eve, and you won't want to miss out on the fun. Enjoy two separate dance floors, a live performance from SWAGG, top local djs, hors d'oeuvre and late-night pizza. Save yourself a trip home by purchasing a hotel room for the night at a discount! New Year's Eve Gala December 31 from 8 am-1 pm at the Galion Community Theatre Shine those shoes, pull your best dress out of the closet, and get ready to ring in the New Year at this glamorous, Old Hollywood-inspired event! A $20 admission fee will grant you access to hors d'oeuvre, a complimentary drink, and a full night of music and dancing. NYE Bash December 31 from  7 pm-2:30 am at Park Street Cantina Come celebrate 2018 Vegas Style at the Park Street Cantina! There will be VIP tables options with bottle service as well as two DJs and dance floors to dance the night away. As one of the largest events in the area, it's bound to make for a memorable night. 1,001 Hollywood Nights December 31 at the Hollywood Casino, times for performances and meals vary There is plenty to entertain you this New Year's Eve at the Hollywood Casino. Enjoy elegant (and delicious) buffets, endless dancing, giveaways, a balloon drop and party favors, plus awe-inspiring performances throughout the casino! Happy New Year's!