Southern Ohio is a crossroads for tourists from the Midwest and Northeast. The southern half of Ohio is intersected from east to west by Interstate 70 and north to south by Interstate 75. These freeways allow vacationers to reach regional centers like Cincinnati, Columbus and Dayton. This region also features natural attractions like Wayne National Forest and the Ohio River. Your exploration of southern Ohio can include visits to cultural events, museums and parks.
The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force at the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base displays more than 400 planes and helicopters. The Air Power Gallery highlights the U.S. Army's use of bombers and fighter jets during World War II. At the Presidential Gallery, visitors view President John F. Kennedy's Air Force One along with presidential planes going back to Franklin Roosevelt. The Flight Test Gallery houses experimental aircraft to highlight the Air Force's past flight research. This southern Ohio attraction honors the sacrifices of pilots and flight personnel with plaques at Memorial Park.
National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
1100 Spaatz St.
Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433
937-225-3286
nationalmuseum.af.mil
The Wilds is a 10,000-acre nature preserve with habitats for wild mammals, birds and reptiles. Visitors can tour the park by reserving seats on the Open Air Safari Tour or the Sunset Safari Tour. The Lodge at the Wilds maintains 12 beds and a dining room for overnight guests. Outdoor lovers can pass through the park on bike trails and observe birds at the Birding Station. The Butterfly Habitat allows guests to surround themselves with butterflies and local plants. Kids can learn more about nature and wild animals during the Hands on the Land summer camp.
The Wilds
14000 International Road
Cumberland, OH 43732
740-638-5030
thewilds.org
The Dayton Gems play minor league hockey as part of the Central Hockey League. The team plays home games from October through March at the 5,500-seat Hana Center. The club hosts a post-game skating and autograph session after each Saturday game. Fans over 21 can purchase beers for a dollar apiece during Thirsty Thursdays. The Gems offer additional promotions like Trading Card Night and Mascot Mania throughout the year. Children can meet and receive autographs from Blade the Mascot during each home game.
Dayton Gems
1001 Shiloh Springs Road
Dayton, OH 45415
937-275-7777
daytongems.com
The Cincinnati Fringe Festival celebrates the cutting edge of music, art and theater for 12 days each year. This festival works with the Art Academy of Cincinnati to host art exhibits and performance art. Attendees can watch short films and experimental cinema throughout the festival at Media Bridges. The 24-hour Play Project challenges teams of playwrights to write and stage original plays in a single day. The festival's Bar Series at the Known Theatre includes social events like karaoke, the Fringe Olympics and cabaret shows.
Cincinnati Fringe Festival
1120 Jackson St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202
513-300-5669
cincyfringe.com
