Butler County, Ohio might not be the first place you think of for a quick family getaway. But, you’d be missing out if you overlooked this Midwestern gem. Here’s our top 10 list of the best place to take your family for some fun and relaxation.
Butler County Donut Trail
Made up of 12 mom and pop donut shops, one passport and endless amounts of sprinkles and sugar-fueled adventure, is the first of its kind in the Midwest. With your passport in hand, head to each donut shop and experience the magic and exceptional flavors each one provides. Sample as many cream horns, chocolate-frosted long john, and jelly-filled fritters as you’d like. Once you’ve completed your conquest, you will receive the coveted, Butler County Donut Trail t-shirt!
EnterTRAINment Junction
All aboard the fast track to EnterTRAINment Junction to see the world’s largest, indoor train display. Learn the comprehensive history and evolution of this incredible mode of transportation through an interactive tour of the locomotive. The little ones will love the kid’s area, Imagination Junction, and get to become conductors of their very own train.
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum
When you arrive at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, take a moment to unplug from the rest of the world. Breathe in the fresh air and absorb the unparalleled scenery of the sculpture park. This 300-acre, Butler County marvel, is home to over 60 modern and colossal sculptures that proudly pose on the park’s rolling hills. Rent an art cart to traverse the gorgeous landscape and revel in the innovative artwork. Don’t forget to check out the indoor Pyramid Hill Ancient Sculpture Museum.
Wake Nation
Thrill seekers, welcome. Wake Nation is the Midwest’s premiere wakeboard cable park. Their motto, “No boat, no problem!” is the perfect way to spend a day. Wakeboarders are pulled by a large, overhead cable; allowing riders to circle the man-made lake. For the more advanced riders, Wake Nation has all kinds of jumps and heights to conquer.
Miami University Art Museum
The Miami University Art Museum hosts five amazing galleries of changing exhibitions. They also have a growing permanent collection with over 17,000 different artworks. The galleries’ pieces are so visually stimulating, you’ll find yourself spending hours wandering the whimsical halls.
Jimco’s Kayaking & Pizza
Is there a more perfect summertime combination than kayaking and pizza? The answer is no; no there is not. Grab a paddle and bask in the sunshine for a relaxing kayak drift down the Great Miami River. Enjoy a non-guided or guided tour by the river enthusiast himself, Jim! Once you’ve reached land, reward yourself with a round of ice cold drinks and a freshly baked pizza with a crispy, cracker crust at Jim’s Pizza restaurant.
Bagel & Deli
To my fellow foodies out there, this one’s for you. Bagel & Deli is by no means your average bagel shop; it’s more of a local legend. They’re steaming and stacking bagel sandwiches sky high with every ingredient imaginable (there are 96 outrageous bagel combinations to be exact). You can’t go wrong with the crunch and munch; a fan favorite consisting of fresh turkey, smoked cheddar, lettuce, honey mustard, parmesan peppercorn, and nacho cheese Doritos.
Can you top the Crunch & Munch? Bagel design competition tonight 8pm @ Armstrong. Winner makes the menu. Food, fun and prizes. Be there! pic.twitter.com/7rjHlErL3S
— Bagel & Deli Shop (@Bagel_and_Deli) February 21, 2017
Rolling Mill Brewing Co.
Rolling Mill Brewing Company brings their own unique flair to Ohio’s vibrant craft beer scene. The owners and creators of Rolling Mill refused to let gluten sensitives stop them from pursuing their micro brewing dreams. Through years of passionate hard work and an immense dedication to bringing a gluten free option to the local beer market, they made their dream a reality in 2017. They’re brewing crisp, malty lagers and ales that are full of flavor and completely void of gluten. Head to their taproom to sip on some nontraditional brews in an inviting atmosphere.
Jungle Jim’s International Market
Jungle Jim’s International Market allows you to travel the globe within the limits of its 200,000 square feet perimeter. They carry tens of thousands of different delicacies from over 70 countries. Be sure to check out their award-winning beer and wine section. The variety and choices of the elixirs is astronomical. You’ll pass by vibrant and bizarre looking produce, a Kombucha bar, hundreds of different hot sauce flavors and so much more.
The Cone
Can we talk about how adorable The Cone’s storefront is? This incredible creamery is literally shaped like an ice cream cone. The Cone’s swirl masters specialize in soft serve. They whip up deliciously unconventional flavor combos, like orange and vanilla and blueberry with vanilla yogurt. For an added crunch to the cone, add a signature dip top. Choose from several different flavors to completely encase your creamy confection.
To find more ideas and inspiration on where to go in Butler County, Ohio, visit www.GetToTheBC.com.