Dublin Ohio Parks

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January 25, 2012

A Week of Winter Activities in Dublin, Ohio

Posted by irishattitude under Columbus Zoo, Dublin Ohio Parks, Family Fun, Ohio travel, What's New
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It’s hard enough getting out of your house to go grocery shopping, but why hibernate when there are so many cool things going on around town during the winter? Wake up and get out to explore a world of raptors, theatre, tornado alleys and professional baseball bat making. Below is a list of activites happening around Dublin, Ohio this week and through February.

Raptor Hike Search for owls and hawks at Glacier Ridge Metro Park on this 1.5 mile hike led by a Park Ranger. Meet at the bulletin board by the picnic shelter. Sunday, January 29th at 2 pm. Free. 9801 Hyland-Croy Road. 891-0700.

Echos in Time Theatre: Ruth Lyons Meet beloved pioneer broadcaster Ruth Lyons (1905-1988), said to have “invented” talk TV. “Mother” as she became known to millions of fans, hosted the 50/50 Club, one of the most popular shows on Cincinnati station WLW from 1949-1967. Portrayed by Robin Schuricht, the performance will start at 1 and 3 pm. Saturday, January 28th. Performance is included with your admission to the Ohio History Center. 800 East 17th Ave., Columbus. 297-2300.

Support Your Local Artist Day is this Saturday, January 28th. Come to TehKu Tea Company in Historic Dublin to see local art and enjoy a hot cup of tea! 55 South High Street. 761-3808.

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium wants to thank everyone for their record breaking attendance last year by offering half-price admission through February 29th. Adults will be $7, $4.50 for children ages two to nine, and $5 for senior citizens age 60 and over. Be sure to see the polar bears Aurora and Anana swimming in their geothermal heated pool or enjoy the warm indoor exhibits like the aquarium at Discovery Reef, gorillas in the African Forest or the Manatee Coast buildings.  9990 Riverside Drive. 645-3400.

COSI is having their Family Friday Night this week. A special admission rate of $9 provides non-stop fun from 5-9 pm. Experience all their exhibits plus a movie in the Giant Screen Theatre.  Current features are “African Adventure – Safari in the Okavango” and “Tornado Alley”. 333 West Broad Street, Columbus. 228-2674.

Phoenix Bats is open for tours during the winter! Tours run every Tuesday at 6 pm and on Thursday and Friday at 1:30 pm. During the one-hour tour, you will learn how the business began, how they work with professional baseball players and teams, the process of creating a bat and will also spend time in the shop seeing a close-up view of the bat making and finishing process. 7801 Corporate Blvd., Plain City. 873-7776.

For more winter ideas visit: www.IrishisanAttitude.com

-Post by Allison & Katie

 

May 25, 2011

Family Reunions Love Dublin, Ohio

Posted by irishattitude under Dublin Ohio Parks, Events, Family Fun, Getaways, Insider tips, Irish, Meetings, Ohio travel, Reunions, Special Events, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , |
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Trying to figure out what to do for your family reunion this summer?

The O'Reilly Clan's Reunion

Entertaining the toddlers, pre-teens, adults and everyone in between is no easy task. Common issues arise such as; Who’s bringing the potato salad? Uncle Larry is not going to want to sit in the heat. How long will everyone have to travel?

Here at the Dublin CVB, we believe summer is a time to slow down and have some fun. Check out our Planner Toolkit and see why Dublin is so great to hold a gathering (apart from our immense Irish Attitude) the Bureau’s Free Services help you find the right places to hold your reunion – perhaps one of our 52 accredited parks or our Riverbox/Geocaching adventure will suit you?

The Dublin CVB has about 30 experiences* that groups can enjoy. Our Irish activities bring out the ‘Irish Attitude’ in visitors and our local partner attractions.

The City also has great multi-cultural attractions that we want families to do if a wee bit o’ Ireland isn’t right for them.

The Dublin CVB’s new ‘Around the World in Dublin, Ohio’ experiences offer a behind-the-scenes look, taste, touch and smell of various cultures and regions. Did you miss our ‘Big Group Fun’ blog post?  These custom activities, like the tour of Ohio’s only professional bat maker, also provide new ways for local reunion planners to experience Dublin and show off their hometown to family members. Learn how Dublin locals can Bring an Event Home and Win a Weekend Getaway.

Tour of Phoenix Bat Company

But don’t just take our word for it. Read the story of the O’Reilly Clan featured in the latest issue of Reunions Magazine. They had their first combined reunion in Dublin, Ohio last August. Although they did not take advantage of the tourism programs, they did center their reunion around the Dublin Irish Festival. 

Here’s a clip of what the Rockford, Illinois planner had to say:

Dublin Irish Festival- Gatherings at the Pond


“I wish every family could experience having a reunion in Dublin.” Tim Reilly said. “70 year old men were hugging and kissing me because it was the grandest affair they had ever attended. The atmosphere in Dublin, Ohio is special. We were a part of the whole celebration. Everywhere we went we felt special.”

*Most tourism programs are available exclusively to groups staying at one of Dublin’s 14 hotels.

To learn more contact Allison Potter: apotter@IrishisanAttitude.com
Twitter: @alli_DublinCVB
614-792-7666

 

May 6, 2011

Riverboxes Offer Treasure-Hunting Fun in Dublin

Posted by irishattitude under Arts in Dublin, Dublin Ohio Parks, Events, Family Fun, Insider tips, Treasures | Tags: , , , |
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Just in time for great weather … guest writer David S. Guion, Ph.D., Executive Director of the Dublin Arts Council, shares some great ideas to celebrate art, nature and warmer temperatures!

The weather is improving. It’s time to get out and about and enjoy our area parks. And what better way to discover hidden treasures than by finding Dublin Arts Council’s Riverboxes? Small 3D original works of art, the Riverboxes are hidden in our Dublin, Ohio parks and will bring you in touch with your creative side — and the environment. Riverboxes are modeled after the hobbies of Letterboxing or Geocaching and provide “an intriguing pastime combining navigational skills and rubber stamp artistry in a charming treasure hunt-style outdoor quest.” (Thank you to Letterboxing.org for that definition!)

Riverboxes contain a space that houses a journal, artist and site information and an artist-created ink stamp. Hobbyists bring their own journal and ink stamp, placing their “mark” and a note in the Riverbox journal, while also logging and stamping the artists’ stamp in their own journal.

We’ve discovered that it’s a perfect way for grandparents to spend time outdoors with grandchildren. It’s also a truly creative first date. You can begin this new hobby in Dublin and can enjoy it all over the world!

Dublin Arts Council began the project in 2007. Currently there are seven Riverboxes, created by Ohio artists, on view in Dublin parks that have access to the Scioto River. Three more will be unveiled on May 21 in Washington Township’s Homestead and Kaltenbach Parks. This collaboration with Washington Township is the first “Riverbox Tributary” project, linking Washington Township parks’ watershed environments with the Scioto River.

The new Riverboxes will be as unique as the artists who were selected to create them:

  • Giancarlo Calicchia of Cleveland. Calicchia was raised in Italy and works with natural materials, primarily stone. His artwork can be found in Italy, Mexico, Haiti, the U.S. and Canada.
  • Andrea Myers who creates abstract layered organic artwork. Myers recently moved to Columbus from Chicago. She currently teaches at the Columbus College of Art and Design.
  • Katlin Rothacher, a graduate of Kent State University who lives in Hartville, Ohio and works primarily in fiber and textiles.

The artists visited the parks in February and are busy putting the finishing touches on their Riverboxes. We can’t wait to see what they have created!  All three artists will be on hand at the opening reception, May 21 from 10 a.m. -12 noon at The Homestead Park, Lakeside Pavilion, 4675 Cosgray Rd., in Hilliard, Ohio.  While there, visitors can make a potato ink stamp and paper bag journal and be among the first to receive clues to the whereabouts of the newest Riverboxes. As with almost all we do at Dublin Arts Council, the event, and the activity, are free of charge.

Please visit www.dublinarts.org for information about the unveiling and for clues and GPS coordinates for the whereabouts of all of the Riverboxes. To learn more about Letterboxing or Geocaching, please visit www.letterboxing.org, www.atlasquest.com and www.geocaching.com.  Please be sure to tell us about your experience in our online guestbook. 

~Guest blog post by David S. Guion, Ph.D., Executive Director, Dublin Arts Council.

 

April 18, 2011

Taming the Tastes of a Hungry Team

Posted by irishattitude under Dublin Ohio Parks, Restaurants, Sports | Tags: , , , , , , |
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Coming to Dublin for a sports tournament? Do you need to feed the entire team, coaches and some extra parents as well? Here are a few of the great group dining options for sports teams in Dublin, Ohio.

Sunny Street Café offers free delivery anywhere in Dublin for orders over $25 – even to the Soccer Field! Give Asch a call 24 hours in advance for delivery or give him notice by 11 a.m. and the whole team is welcome after the game!  7042 Hospital Drive, Dublin. 614/389-3640.

Mary Kelley’s welcomes groups of all sizes. This unique Dublin restaurant features American favorites with an Irish Flair. Call Kathy to set up a private dining room!  7148 Muirfield Drive, Dublin. 614/760-7041.

Tommy’s Pizza has a large dining room just for groups. Call ahead to let them know how many are in your party and come enjoy the best hometown pizza and a cold pitcher in Dublin!  4279 W. Dublin-Granville Road, Dublin. 614/764-3999.

Graeters is an Ohio favorite ice cream with signature chocolate chip flavors that are irresistible. Their sundae service can be delivered directly to you and includes pre-scooped ice cream with a variety of toppings – or stop by their Frantz Road location after your game!  6255 Frantz Road, Dublin. 614/799-2663.

Salvi’s Bistro is an Italian bistro that can accommodate large parties. Try their famous Pasta Salvi – creamy egg noodles encased in a deep-fried crunchy coating. Please call ahead for table reservations so they may accommodate your group quickly.  5000 Upper Metro Place, Dublin. 614/874-0466.

Hoggy’s is a casual barbeque stop here in Dublin. Try their Three Little Pigs – a sampler of barbeque!  Hoggy’s also offers kid friendly favs like Mac n’ Cheese, Hot Dogs and Grilled Cheese. Please call ahead for group seating. Hoggy’s Barbeque. 7509 Sawmill Road, Dublin. 614/791-8661.

Dublin is also home to several chain restaurants. Listed by area they include:

  • In the Perimeter Loop/Avery Road area: Subway, CiCi Pizza Buffet,  Jimmy John’s, Chipotle, Wendy’s, Tim Horton’s, Burger King, McDonald’s, Baskin Robbins, Cold Stone Creamery, Buffalo Wild Wings, Jersey Mike’s, Panera and Steak Escape.
  • Along Tuttle Crossing Boulevard/Mall area: P.F. Chang’s, Longhorn Steakhouse, Noodles & Co., Wendy’s, McDonald’s, Bob Evans, Taco Bell, Boston Market, Steak and Shake, Macaroni Grill, Panera and Ruby Tuesday.
  • Sawmill Road area: Red Lobster, Olive Garden, Arby’s, Chipotle, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Boston Market, Panera, Ruby Tuesday, Jimmy John’s, COSI, Chuck E. Cheese, Pizza Hut, Golden Corral Buffet, Chili’s and Subway.

Need more info? Visit the Dining Section of the Dublin OH Convention & Visitors Bureau website for detailed listings–or call 800/245-8387.

~Post by Katie

 

June 15, 2010

Sundays @ Scioto Concerts=Free Family Fun

Posted by irishattitude under Columbus Zoo, Dublin Ohio Parks, Events, Insider tips, Music & Entertainment, Ohio travel | Tags: , , , , , , |
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If your house is like mine, we have a calendar full of summer play dates and vacation plans.  Baseball season is in full swing and the pool is beckoning.  It’s summertime in Dublin, Ohio!

One of our favorite annual summertime events: the Sundays at Scioto concerts held Sunday evenings at Scioto Park from 7-8:30 p.m.  (Note: Scioto Park is located at 7377 Riverside Drive in Dublin, north of the I-270 overpass and south of Hard Rd. It is just five minutes south of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.) It is such a wonderful FREE event and a great way to wind down the weekend.  It’s easy because all you need is a blanket and a picnic.  No tickets or planning involved, it’s just a question of do we or don’t we, and off we go!  We grab takeout food and take turns choosing from some of our favorite places.  One child always picks Italian Subs from Tommy’s and the other likes Sunflower Chinese.  They do sell Jeni’s Ice Cream at Scioto Park for a cool treat during the concerts!

Parking is available on site with minimal walking. There is a children’s playground located in the park, near the river–if you arrive early. If you like treasure hunting/geocaching, be sure to search for the Riverbox!  We like to sit up on the hill above the stage, so the kids have room to roam. (Then, if we need to make a quick exit, we don’t disturb other concert goers.)

This summer’s Sundays at Scioto Concert lineup includes:

  • June 20: The Ark Band (Roots Reggae)
  • June 27: Westminster Faculty Jazz Quartet
  • July 4: Brass Band of Columbus (British Brass Band)
  • July 11: Spikedrivers (Rust Bucket Rock)
  • July 18: Eric Dove & Green Light Go (Country Rock)
  • July 25: British Invasion (British pop/rock)

Hope to see you there! 

For more information about these and other Dublin, Ohio arts events and exhibits, visit www.dublinarts.org or call 614/889-7444.  To plan a fun summer getaway itinerary in Dublin, Ohio–visit www.IrishisanAttitude.com)

-Post by Katie

 

February 2, 2010

Bring Your Event Home-Win a Weekend Getaway

Posted by irishattitude under Dublin Ohio Parks, Events, Insider tips, Irish, Meetings | Tags: , , , , , , |
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I’ve learned a lot about this Emerald City. One thing I’ve noticed is the special pride that pulses through a Dubliner’s veins. You could say we “bleed green” and collectively I know we make this city’s heart beat. Our professional workforce, entrepreneurs, educators, religious groups, service volunteers even our seasoned golfers work together with a fantastic hum that keeps this community so alive.

Dublin (OH) Irish Festival

Those that have left Dublin, Ohio still take a piece of Irish Attitude with them and now–that connection can mean influence.  That’s why I am inviting Dubliners, local and abroad, to help make Dublin, Ohio an even better place to live and work. All you have to do is Bring Your Event Home.

You may have your “real job” but at the same time you might be affiliated with another organization. This organization could directly relate to your career or maybe it’s your favorite hobby. For instance, you could work for Cardinal Health by day and be a toy tin train collector by night. Perhaps you’re looking for wedding accommodations or you’re planning a reunion? Whether your group is professional or of personal interest, you can positively impact Dublin by referring your events to the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau.

What do meetings mean to the City of Dublin?

The economic impact of a meeting or function in Dublin reaches far and wide. Meeting and event attendees who stay at Dublin’s hotels spend money directly in the City on dining, transportation and entertainment. Could you imagine a Dublin, Ohio without these vital programs, services and events? Here are just some of the things that are funded (at least in part) by the City’s bed tax:

Old Man's Cave Chalets Hocking Hills OH

What do I have to do?
You don’t have to be your organization’s decision-maker or meeting planner. Most likely referrers are professionals actively involved in government agencies, medical or trade associations, hobby or religious groups on either a state or national level. You just have to let me know some basic information about your group. You can stay involved throughout the bid, if you choose. Having local influence during the selection process has proven to help the city be chosen. Open your group’s eyes to Dublin and I’ll try my best to bring them here.

What do I win?
Every month, those who submit a qualified lead will be entered into a drawing to win dinner for two at one of Dublin’s signature restaurants. If the lead you submit is booked at one of our 15 Dublin hotels, you could receive our Grand Prize–
A free weekend stay at Old Man’s Cave Chalets in the beautiful Hocking Hills. You’ll be able to wander through Ash Cave and see its waterfall or explore Conkle’s Hollow. With more than 10,000 acres of deep forests, hidden trails, soaring cliffs, and sheltering caves, Hocking Hills offers some of the most unique outdoor attractions in Ohio.

Who do I contact?

Allison Potter
614-792-7666
apotter@IrishisanAttitude.com
http://www.twitter.com/alli_dublincvb

Feel free to give me a call or an email– I would love to hear from you!

 

December 22, 2009

Guess Who’s Coming to Dublin?

Posted by irishattitude under Dublin Ohio Parks, Events, Special Events, Sports | Tags: , , , , , , , , |
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While 2009 may be coming to a close, many of us are looking ahead to 2010 … including the hundreds of police, firefighters and EMS personnel who
will be attending the 2010 Can-Am Police-Fire Games in Dublin, Ohio during the week of August 15-22.

To date, competitors from more than 100 different police and fire agencies have registered. These include the FBI, Calgary Police Service, Chicago Fire Department, Baton Rouge Police Department, CBP-United States Border Patrol, Correctional Service of Canada, Columbus Division of Police, Department of Homeland Security, Indianapolis Fire Department, Department of National Defence Canada, Federal Air Marshal Service, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, NYPD, Oregon State Police, New Jersey State Police, Tempe Police & Fire Departments and US Customs & Border Protection … among many others. And the list keeps growing. Daily.

During that exciting week in August, an estimated 2,500 competitors  (and their families) will travel to Dublin from across the globe to compete in 58 different sporting events—including SWAT,  Narcotics Dog, Tug of War, Karate and Toughest Competitor Alive.  The games are expected to generate an economic impact of more than $3.5 million to the local economy. Events will kick off on Sunday evening, August 15 at Coffman Park with a family friendly Opening Ceremonies featuring some amazing demonstrations. Best of all, events are free and spectators are encouraged to come out and cheer on the competitors.

So, while you are penciling in dates for your 2010 calendar—be sure to include the 2010 Can-Am Games. Really … this is going to be one unforgettable week in Central Ohio.

-Post by Mary

 

September 25, 2009

Becoming a SMERF …

Posted by irishattitude under Columbus Zoo, Dublin Ohio Parks, Events, Historic Dublin, Restaurants, What's New | Tags: , , , , , , , |
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Allow me to introduce myself. I am the Dublin (OH) Convention & Visitors Bureau’s new SMERF Sales and Marketing Manager.  I am a SMERF.  A what? Leatherlips Dublin OHA Smert? A Merf? A little blue creature that ran around in a forest during the 1980’s a.k.a Smurf?  Well since I spawned from the 80’s, I might be that too … but my title encompasses all that’s green instead of blue.

SMERF is a tourism industry term that stands for Social, Military, Educational, Religious and Fraternal. So if your organization falls under any of those categories, you may be working with me.

I just began my position at the Dublin Convention and Visitors Bureau about two weeks ago and I’ve been soaking up every bit o’ Irish knowledge. Since I need to be an expert about this city, I’ve been exploring all of its opportunities.

My travels have  included viewing the Dublin Arts Council’s Art in Public Places.  I never knew corn on the cob could look so cool!  Malcom Cochran, an Ohio artist, commemorated Dublin’s history as a farming community by creating a field of 109 human-sized ears of corn. The Field of Corn (with Osage Orange Trees) even has a parking area so you can get out of your car and strike a pose with your favorite cob.

One of my favorite sites is Scioto Park. A 12-foot high sculpture of Chief Leatherlips watches over the park’s sprawling hill that rolls towards the river. There’s an outdoor stage that’s ready for summer concerts and shelter houses that are perfect for get-togethers.

Seeing the Dublin sites has been very informative, but most of my time is spent in Historic Dublin’s BriHi District … in an office.  It has proven to be a wonderful place to work. The CVB office bustles above the Visitor Information Center that we keep freshly stocked with area maps, brochures and tourist information. The welcoming environment and friendly co-workers has made my huge transition much easier.

So has TehKu Tea Company, located right down the street.  I’m a sucker for the restaurant’s tea of the day and organic food selections. It has inspired me to get my own tea press. I’m also inspired to adopt-a-lion from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, after I had a meeting there. We’ll see what happens first.

Since mid-August I’ve been living in Dublin. Now that I’m working for Dublin I’m immersed in learning about the events, hotels, history and beauty. As a former Ohio State Buckeye, I feel like I’m having a love affair between these two areas. What can I say? Irish is an attitude and Dublin, Ohio is stealing my heart.

-Post by Allison

 

August 12, 2009

Winning Irish Attitude

Posted by irishattitude under Contests, Dublin Ohio Parks, Family Fun, Irish | Tags: , , , , , , , , , |
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As you may have realized by now, we’re big on “Irish Attitude” around here.  So, July was a good month.  Not only because Dublin was abuzz in winning-pic-web-versionpreparation for our world-famous Irish Festival–but we (the Dublin Convention & Visitors Bureau) were accepting submissions for our photography contest. So, every couple of days, new entries would land in my email box. Then I’d open them and smile. Really. Those images made my day(s).

We ended up with 51 entries, in all.  And they were exactly what we had hoped for. Beautiful scenic park shots.  Silly, toothy kid-grins. Snapshots of people having tons of fun at Dublin’s St. Patrick’s Day celebration, the Kiwanis Frog Jump or the Dublin Irish Festival. And that’s just it–they were shots of people having fun!  The best part of the entire contest (for me) came after all of the final decisions had all been made by our judges. As I sat down to contact the winners, I discovered they were from all over … Columbus, Dresden, Michigan, South Carolina, etc.  Like I said … exactly what we had hoped for, when planning the contest.  These were visitors (and residents) who had snapped images of Dublin with their cameras while having fun here. Goofing around with their kids at an event. Taking in the quiet green serenity of one of our parks. Smiling for the camera with friends.  See for yourself– check out the winners here.  We’re hoping to repeat the contest next summer. So, be sure to bring your camera to Dublin on your next visit.  You just never know where you’re going to find a little Irish attitude around here.

-Post by Mary

 

July 24, 2009

Enjoying the Summer — Family Style in Dublin

Posted by irishattitude under Columbus Zoo, Dublin Ohio Parks, Family Fun, Insider tips, Music & Entertainment
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Hope you all have had a great summer so far, I know ours has been busy, but we’re having a lot of fun! This Sunday is the last Sunday at SSundays at Sciotocioto concert featuring British Invasion — a British Pop/Rock Band. If you haven’t been to a concert yet, do try this last one. This is one of the most popular groups—so plan on arriving early, and carpool if at all possible.

We like to sit in the shady area at the top of the hill — far away enough so that the kids can run around and not bother the serious listeners, but yet close enough that we get to enjoy the music as well. If you arrive early, kids can enjoy the playground area down by the river to run off some steam before you enjoy your picnic and the music.

Another great family activity is to go to the Columbus Zoo on Wednesday nights. They are open ’til 8 and each week has a different sponsor. We love to have a later dinner and take it out to the River’s Edge Water Park area. It’s a beautiful site right on the river and there are plenty of tables. You can also usually hear the gibbons becoming more vocal as the heat goes down and be sure to look for the catfish at the edge of the river. They’re huge!

-Post by Katie

 

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