1. Splash Zone

Splash Zone is home to Ohio's first bowl slide. This family-friendly waterpark also features a 280-foot lazy river and a 25-yard competition pool. Splash Zone is located at 300 Eagle City Road, Springfield, OH 45502.

2. Reed Road Waterpark

Reed Road Waterpark features water slides, a children's play area, a heated pool with current, and so much more. This waterpark is great for the entire family and should be added to everyone's summer bucket list. Reed Road Waterpark is located at 2000 Hastings Ln, Upper Arlington, OH 43221.

3. Comfort Inn Splash Harbor

Splash Harbor is Ohio's premier waterpark for young families. This 6,000-square-foot waterpark is located inside Comfort Inn and features a 49-foot looping water slide, dumping buckets, shooting geysers, water basketball hoops, a floating raft, and a kiddie pool area. Splash Harbor is located at 855 Comfort Plaza, Bellville, OH 44813.

4. Worthington Natatorium

The Worthington Natatorium is a fun, local swimming spot with massive swimming pools, twisting waterslides, and a splash area for the kids, and includes indoor and outdoor swimming options. It is located at 400 W Dublin Granville Rd, Worthington, OH 43085.

5. Zoombezi Bay

Zoombezi Bay, located across from the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, is a 22-acre waterpark that features a wave pool, 17 water slides, private cabanas, a lazy river, and a kiddie play area. Dolphin Dash and Cyclone are two of Zoombezi Bay's most popular attractions. Zoombezi Bay is located at 4850 Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065.

See what it’s like to go on the exciting waterslides here:

There are so many awesome waterparks in Ohio. Have you been to any of the best water parks near Columbus? Let us know about them in the comments.

The post These 5 Waterparks Near Columbus Are Going To Make Your Summer AWESOME appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. South High Drive-In Theatre/Flea Market

One of the most unique flea markets in Ohio, The South High Flea Market is a massive OH flea market open Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays from mid-March to early November.

2. Westland Flea Market

Established in 1992 in what used to be the Lincoln Lanes Bowling Alley, this Ohio flea marketflea market has 50,000 square feet of indoor space — plus outdoor space. Here you can find clothing, electronics, jewelry, video games, collectibles, and more.

3. Greater Columbus Antique Mall

Sitting in the Brewery District, this Columbus antique mall has multiple levels and tons of rooms, booths, and vendors. Let yourself wander through the never-ending items and you're sure to find some cool items.

4. Columbus Flea

Columbus Flea organizes four annual flea markets, one during each season. The markets sell antiques, vintage clothing, records, crafts, handmade jewelry, original artwork, and lots of other cool stuff.

5. Eclectiques Antique Mall

With more than 30 vendors sprawled out over three floors, Eclectiques Antique Mall is an amazing antique mall that's a must-visit if you're a lover of all things vintage. The basement holds most of the furniture, the main floor holds jewelry, home decor items, and things like dishes, and the third floor has collectible items. You will find lots of items in great shape despite being antiques!

I bet you saw something in one of those photos that you instantly wanted. Imagine how much more cool stuff is at the actual markets! Let us know what your favorite flea markets find are.

The post 7 Must-Visit Flea Markets In Columbus Where You’ll Find Awesome Stuff appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Hayden Falls

One of the hidden gems in the city is Hayden Falls. Located in Dublin, this park and waterfall is yet to be discovered by many Columbus residents. A flight of stairs and a nice boardwalk will take you from the parking lot to this beautiful waterfall. This is a wonderful place to unwind, snap some photos, and enjoy the feel of the delicate mist coming from the falls. The walk to the falls is pretty short, so feel free to squeeze in this visit between other activities. The parking lot is small, but people leave often so you should be able to find a spot after a quick wait. How lucky are we that these amazing waterfallsfalls in Columbus, Ohio?

2. Glen Echo Park

Nestled in one of Clintonville’s ravines in central Columbus is Glen Echo Park. The park has a paved road that runs along a creek, a scenic old bridge, several tables, and a wonderful waterfall. You will enjoy watching the water flow down and bounce off of the glistening shale rock wall behind it. Visit the official city of Columbus website to learn more about this wonderful park in Ohio. It just may be the closest waterfall to you.

3. Indian Run Falls

Once home to Wyandot tribe members, another hidden Dublin park is the Indian Run Falls. This park features a waterfall as well as beautiful rocky water cascades in the river. The trail loops around the park and can be walked in about 30 minutes. However, you will find it easy to spend more time here as you meander the woods and enjoy the river. The park has a lot of vegetation, and on a hot summer day the shade can provide a nice break from the heat. Learn more about Indiana Run Falls in Ohio on the Visit Dublin website.

4. Inniswood Metro Garden

Inniswood Metro Garden is an incredible place to really take the time to relax and enjoy nature. This is a botanical garden with many separate trails and sections. Landscapes and flowers are wonderfully maintained and updated seasonally. Of the many things to enjoy in this park, one is a gentle cascading waterfall. Many people throw pennies into the falls and make a wish. The lands of the park were donated to Franklin County Parks by sisters Grace and Mary Innis, who wanted to preserve this area and provide education in horticulture and natural sciences to visitors. This beautiful garden in Ohio would be worth visiting even without the waterfall! It's one of the loveliest Columbus, Ohio waterfalls.

Are you ready to take in these beautiful waterfalls near Columbus, Ohio, and allow your mind to unwind? Let us know if you know of any other hidden gems in Columbus!

If you’re yearning for more, check out these waterfalls in Ohio.

The post These 4 Breathtaking Waterfalls Are Hiding In Columbus appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Fantasy of Lights at Alum Creek

This is a drive-thru lights display in Ohio, so you can stay warm and cozy in your car as you enjoy the ride, and you can pick up free hot chocolate and cookies at the Santa House! The Fantasy of Lights display is generally open beginning mid-November.

Alum Creek Fantasy of Light's Santa House is located at 3190 S Old State Rd., Delaware, OH, 43015.

2. Columbus Zoo Wildlights

Who wants to celebrate the holidays with the cutest and wildest members of the animal kingdom? Each year, Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo is a grand show of millions of lights, rides, and other fun holiday activities. There's no holiday event in Columbus quite like Wildlights!

The Columbus Zoo is located at 4850 W Powell Rd., Powell, OH, 43065.

3. Easton Town Center Holiday Lights

Each year, Easton Town Center features a 50-foot-tall Christmas tree, carriage rides, photos with Santa, live entertainment, and tons of lights decorating the charming streets. The holiday entertainment is typically available from mid-November 17 through the end of the holiday season.

Easton Town Center Holiday Lights is located at 160 Easton Town Center, Columbus, OH, 43219.

4. Creekside Gahanna Holiday Lights

Experience a wonderful lights show at one of Gahanna's favorite locations - Creekside Park. Enjoy this beautiful lights display from mid-November through the end of December.

Creekside Holiday Lights are located at 117 Mill St., Columbus, OH, 43230.

5. Gardens Aglow at the Franklin Park Conservatory

Each year from mid-November through New Year's, the Franklin Park Conservatory becomes even more magical than usual during Gardens Aglow. You'll see beautiful poinsettia displays, incredible lights, and seasonal foliage decorated for the holidays.

Gardens Aglow is located at 1777 E Broad St., Columbus, OH, 43203.

6. Columbus Commons Holiday Lights

One of the best Christmas towns in Ohio, each year, the Columbus Commons are decked to the nines with lights, trees, and whimsical holiday displays! In addition, there is other holiday entertainment offered throughout the season, making this a family favorite. There is no excuse not to experience this dazzling event!

Columbus Commons Holiday Lights is located at 160 S High St., Columbus, OH, 43215.

7. Scioto Mile Grand Illumination

The lights at the Scioto Mile typically light up in the middle of November and stay on display until the end of the holiday season. Enjoy the beautiful views of downtown Columbus with over 150 illuminated trees that give the city a truly magical atmosphere.

Scioto Mile Holiday Lights is located at 233 S Civic Center Dr., Columbus, OH, 43215.

Do you have a favorite holiday event? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below. Don’t forget to share your photos of these dazzling light displays on the Only In Columbus Facebook page or by tagging us on Instagram (@onlyincolumbus) for a chance to see your photos featured!

The post The Christmas Lights Road Trip Around Columbus That’s Nothing Short Of Magical appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Katalina’s Cafe

Home of the original pancake balls, Katalina’s has been serving fantastic food in Victorian Village for decades. It’s housed in a 100-year-old gas station and serves breakfast, brunch, and brunch. Katalina’s focuses on on local, organic, and ethical ingredients sourced from local business partners, and they create classic diner meals with a Latin twist. In addition to the food, you will love the environment of the cafe, which has walls filled with unique thrift store finds and graffiti.

Katalina’s is located at 1105 Pennsylvania Ave., Columbus, OH 43201.

2. The Top Steak House

Sure, plenty of restaurants serve steak... but if you’re really looking for a top notch intimate atmosphere, you’ll want to give The Top a try. The Top has been one of the best restaurants in Columbus for over 50 years. The restaurant has romantica venue, complete with piano music and lounge singers.

The Top Steakhouse is located at 2891 E Main St., Columbus, OH 43209.

3. Mozart’s Bakery & Piano Cafe

Mozart's has been a Clintonville destination for over 20 years. Mozart’s brings Europe to Columbus through breakfast, lunch, dinner, and an incredible variety of decadent European pastries. This "taste of Austria" is accompanied by live piano music and jazz on select nights. Make sure you also check out the beautifully restored building, which was built in the 1920s.

Mozart's Bakery and Piano Cafe is located at 4784 N High St., Columbus, OH 43214.

4. Eden Burger (temporarily closed)

With a mission to "save the f’n world," Eden Burger serves modern, elevated fast food inspired dishes. The menu is organic, vegan, and delicious. Some of the favorites include the BBQ Western Burger with fries and a blood orange soda, the Buffalo Tempeh, and the incredible milkshakes.

Eden Burger is located at 1437 N High St., Columbus, OH 43201. Be sure to check and see if they've re-opened.

5. The Boat House

The Boat House is a great restaurant that offers a modern seafood menu. You can enjoy a bottle of wine or a deliciously crafted cocktail with your meal. What makes this place extra special, though, is its incredible view. Sitting in Confluence Park at the meeting of the Olentangy and Scioto Rivers, the restaurants opens up to an incredible view of downtown Columbus.

The Boat House is located at 679 W Spring St., Columbus, OH 43215.

6. Cafe Istanbul on Riverside Drive

Eating with a view is a favorite to many diners, so here is another restaurant that is both delicious and scenic. Cafe Istanbul serves high quality Turkish food, including all of your favorites, like baba ganoush, hummus, and kababs. Whether you dine inside or on the large patio, you will be able to enjoy a gorgeous view from the bank of the Scioto River.

Cafe Istanbul is located at 6125 Riverside Dr., Dublin, OH 43017.

7. Bossy Grrl’s Pin Up Joint

How exactly does one describe Bossy Grrls? Words that come to mind: burlesque, exotic, rowdy, and trashy (I'm not being mean here, that one's from the description on their own website). This place is a wild hidden gem. They offer burlesque shows every Monday at 10:00 p.m., and on other nights they feature dancers, musicians, and comedians. Delicious beers, whisky, coffee, and sandwiches are available for you to enjoy along with the shows.

Bossy Grrls Pin Up Joint is located at 2598 N. High Street, Columbus, OH 43202.

8. Rodizio Grill

You know how sometimes you wish you could try "one of everything" on a menu? Well, at Rodizio Grill, that’s kind of the idea. Waiters walk around the dining room offering a variety of smoky flavorful meats just off the grill. Instead of ordering one dish, customers are able try the delicacies a few slices at a time.

Rodizio Grill Brazilian Steakhouse is located at 125 W Nationwide Blvd., Columbus, OH 43215.

9. Schmidt’s Sausage Haus

This famous German Village restaurant will give you an authentic taste of Germany - there are sausages galore! The best way to enjoy your meal here is to head straight for the German Autobahn Buffet. Schmidt's does not take reservations and it tends to get a bit crowded, so arrive early you're hungry, give your name to the hostess, and wander the cobblestone streets of German Village while you wait!

Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant is located at 240 E Kossuth St., Columbus, OH 43206.

10. Watershed Kitchen & Bar

For incredible, modern, and local food accompanied by amazing cocktails made with home spirits, try Watershed Kitchen & Bar. This restaurant was just opened earlier this year (and has already received rave reviews) as an addition to the Watershed Distillery. Already loved by locals for their delicious and carefully crafted spirits, they have approached their new restaurant with the same kind of attention to detail. Their flavors come from their respect for ingredients and their mission to reflect and improve the community around them.

Watershed Kitchen & Bar is located at 1145 Chesapeake Ave., Ste D, Columbus, OH 43212.

What is your favorite one-of-a-kind restaurant in Columbus? We’d love to know! Before you visit, learn some unique facts about Columbus!

The post These 10 Unique Restaurants In Columbus Are Cool Places To Eat appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Brookside Trail at Blendon Woods Metro Park

This is a gravel 0.8-mile one-way trail. It will take you through the gorgeous beech-maple and oak-hickory forest of the park and cross Ripple Rock Creek. Blendon Woods is filled with deep ravines and beautiful views. It is a great park for bird watching. So if you live in Columbus, file this one away under hiking trails near me.

Blendon Woods Metro Park is located at 4265 E. Dublin-Granville Rd., Westerville, OH, 43081.

2. Lakeview Trails at Prairie Oaks Metro Park

This is a 0.9-mile hike that is a mix of paved road, gravel, and grass pathways. It actually consists of two trails; the Lake Trail will take you past several small lakes, and the Mound Trail will take you around a small Indian mound. Enjoy the wildflowers and the scenic water views! Learn more about these trails and other scenic hikes in Columbus at Prairie Oaks Metro Park, then go visit.

Prairie Oaks Metro Park is located at 3225 Plain City-Georgesville Rd. West, Jefferson, OH, 43162.

3. Edward S. Thomas at Sharon Woods Metro Park

This trail is a 1.1-mile loop that is gravel lined and ADA accessible. This wonderful hike will take you through the Edward S. Thomas State Nature Preserve. You will see large burr oak trees and an observation deck on the Schrock Lake. Just remember to be mindful of the preserve and remain on the designated trail at all times. Check out more about Sharon Woods Metro Park, and then pencil in your next visit.

Sharon Woods Metro Park is located at 6911 Cleveland Ave., Westerville, OH, 43081.

4. Confluence Trail at Three Creeks Metro Park

This one-mile dirt trail will take you past the beautiful area where Blacklick, Big Walnut, and Alum Creeks merge into one. There is a wonderful open area by the confluence with a bench to relax and enjoy the scenery. It’s also easy to walk down to the water if you like skipping rocks. Learn more about Three Creeks Metro Park and other kid-friendly hikes around Columbus, and then grab the whole family and give one a go.

Three Creeks Metro Park is located at 3860 Bixby Rd., Groveport, OH 43125.

5. Red Oaks Trail at Glacier Ridge Metro Park

The Red Oaks Trail is a 0.8-mile hike with a short loop on either side. This trail will take you through some of the most wooded parts of the park and several of the woodland restoration areas. Enjoy the beautiful views of red oaks all around you. This is one of the best hikes in Columbus, so don't wait to hit the trail.

Glacier Ridge Metro Park is located at 9801 Hyland Croy Rd., Plain City, OH, 43064.

6. Maple Trail at Blacklick Woods Metro Park

This is a 0.9-mile trail that is ADA accessible and has gravel pathways. You will hike through a loop among a beautiful beech-maple forest and see many varieties of trees, including oak, white ash, red maple, elm, shagbark, bitternut hickory, and dogwood. You will also pass a small wetland on your way, which is a fantastic place for bird watching. This is one of the best easy hikes in Columbus, so grab your binoculars and head on over.

Blacklick Woods Metro Park is located at 6975 E. Livingston Ave., Reynoldsburg, OH, 43068.

7. Turkey Foot Trail and Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

This is a 0.5-mile loop with a grass trail. Here you will enjoy the beautiful and peaceful scenes of Central Ohio’s grasslands and prairies. Darby Creek is a very large metro park and this is a good place to start exploring all it has to offer. Learn more about Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park, and then plan your next visit there.

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park is located at 1775 Darby Creek Dr., Galloway, OH, 43119.

8. Scenic River Trail at Highbanks Metro Park

This is a 0.6-mile one-way trail located within a forested area of Highbanks Metro Park. It is gravel and ADA accessible. The trail runs along the Olentangy River, giving you wonderful water views. The entire trail is located within a Natural Play Area, where hikers and children are encouraged to wander off the path and explore the wilderness around them. Read more about Highbanks Metro Park, then plan your next family outing there.

Highbanks Metro Park is located at 9466 Columbus Pike, Lewis Center, OH, 43035.

Are you ready to set out on some of the best hikes in Columbus? You can find more details about all of these awesome areas on the Metro Parks website.

If you’re dying to do even more scenic hiking around Columbus, check out these 10 other excellent hiking spots.

The post 8 Easy Hikes To Add To Your Outdoor Bucket List In Columbus appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Serpent Mound

Located in Adams County, Ohio Serpent Mound is the largest serpent effigy in the world. It is 1,348-feet long and 3-feet high. It was originally Adena indigenous culture, but scientists and historians now believe that it was built by the Fort Ancient culture around 1070 CE. This site offers a nice walk and an incredible glimpse into a culture that roamed this area a very long time ago. What's more, there’s no earthwork in the world that compares to the Great Serpent Mound in Peebles -- but what’s even more intriguing about the mound is its indefinite purpose, which continues to baffle archaeologists and anthropologists alike. If you’ve yet to see this marvel for yourself, you need to check it out!

2. Granville

Granville is a particularly charming town in Ohio that is home to lots of shops, art galleries, and restaurants that are sure to keep you entertained all day. Its wonderful New England architecture was brought by a group of settlers from Massachusetts and Connecticut who established the town in the early 19th century. You can visit Denison University, Alligator Mound, or indulge in Granville's delicious restaurants.

3. Hocking Hills State Park

You've probably heard about Hocking Hills a gazillion times, but why? It's an incredibly beautiful, unique place. Here you will find scenic ridge trails, deep gorges, astonishing cliffs, and so much more. Hocking Hills is a huge park with lots of different trails, and you can keep discovering new things all the time. Truly, the myriad hikes within this 2,356-acre Ohio State Park feature incredible natural wonders like waterfalls, caves, cliffs, and rock formations sure to leave your jaw on the floor every single time.

4. Zanesville

Zanesville is perfect for a day trip from Columbus. Not only does it have one of the best views from the highway, but Zanesville is filled with incredible architecture, a one-of-a-kind Y Bridge, famous local pottery, arts and antique stores, and lots of other exciting activities (did somebody say Alpaca Farm?!).

5. Mohican State Park

Slightly lesser known than Hocking Hills, Mohican State Park is a 1,110-acre park with an adjacent 4,525-acre state forest. It presents a unique landscape of Ohio with a beautiful lake and gorge surrounded by tall dense woods. The area was once the hunting grounds of the Native American Delaware tribe. It is rich in natural beauty and wildlife. Discover more about Mohican in this article.

6. Lake Erie

Whether you're craving a summer swim or a winter walk by a grand body of water, you'll find it at Lake Erie. One of the famous Great Lakes, Lake Erie has an area of 9,940 square miles. It offers breathtaking views and lots of activities. Depending on which part of the Lake you want to visit, it might take some driving time, but the Cleveland coast is just over two hours from Columbus. Learn more about this ocean-like body of water in the Midwest, and the amazing Ohio byway that drives past some of its most sublime scenery, in this article.

7. Yellow Springs

Yellow Springs is a town of about 3,513 residents in between Dayton and Cincinnati. It is famous for its quirkiness, charm, and just overall delightfulness. Here you can visit lots of unique shops and local diners, a colorful downtown, the actual Yellow Spring, Antioch College, John Bryan State Park, and a working dairy farm. Learn more about this wonderful town in this article.

8. Rockside Winery

Chances are you didn't even know that there is a winery 35 minutes from downtown Columbus. Rockside Winery has a sunny relaxing vineyard where you can walk among the vines, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy local Ohio wines right where they are made. Sit back with a glass of wine on the patio or inside the cozy family-like tasting room. Learn more about Rockside Winery, which totally feels like something out of California Wine Country, in this article.

What are your favorite day trips to take from Columbus? Share them with us in the comments!

The post Here Are 8 Unique Day Trips Near Columbus That Are An Absolute Must-Do appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

1. Alum Creek State Park

This oasis for water lovers is a great state park right here in Columbus. At Alum Creek you can enjoy camping, swimming, boating, fishing, and so much more. There are trails to walk and a great fenced dog park for your four-legged pals.

Alum Creek State Park is located at 3305 S. Old State Road, Delaware, OH, 43015, and you can read more about this park on the Ohio Department of Natural Resources website.

2. A.W. Marion State Park

A.W. Marion is a small, quiet, and serene state park. During the summer, this is a great place to camp and enjoy picnic areas, fishing, and trail walking. During the winter, the park is also open for sledding, ice skating, and ice fishing.

A.W. Marion State Park is located at 7317 Warner Huffer Road, Circleville, OH, 43113, and you can learn more about this Ohio State Park here.

3. Flint Ridge State Park

Over 10,000 years ago, Native Americans quarried the area that is now the Flint Ridge State Park for flint, which was used to make tools like knives and spear points. There is a great museum where you can learn about this fascinating history. In addition to providing a great educational opportunity, the park also provides beautiful trails and an calming outdoor experience.

Flint Ridge State Park is located at 15300 Flint Ridge Road, Glenford, OH, 43739, and you can learn more about this historic Ohio State Park here.

4. Delaware State Park

The dense woodlands and meadows that cover this park were once the lands of the Delaware Indians. You can enjoy this park with a unique accommodation - a yurt. Three furnished yurt units are available to rent May through October.

Delaware State Park is located at 5202 U.S. Highway 23 N, Delaware, OH, 43015, and you can learn more about this Ohio State Park here.

5. Dillon State Park

This park, set in hilly valleys of the Dillon area, has room for all your favorite activities. There is a disc golf course, a bridle trail, mountain biking and hiking trails to enjoy the scenery.

You can learn more about this Ohio State Park here.

6. Buck Creek State Park

A mix of forest, meadows, and prairies make Buck Creek State Park a beautiful nature retreat. Equipped with a beach for summer fun, cross-country skiing trails for the winter, and a disc golf course for all seasons, this park is an exciting visit any time of the year!

Buck Creek State Park is located at 1976 Buck Creek Ln., Springfield, OH, 45502, and you can learn more about this beautiful Ohio State Park here.

7. Deer Creek State Park

Deer Creek State Park is located within Ohio's rich agricultural lands, giving way to incredible flora and wildlife. Enjoy an 18-hole golf course and a 9-hole disc golf course as you take in the beautiful nature.

Deer Creek State Park is located at 20635 State Park Road 20, Mt. Sterling, OH, 43143.

8. Buckeye Lake State Park

The perfect place for water sport enthusiasts, Buckeye Lake State Park has long been a favorite weekend destination for Columbusites. White Buckeye Lake does not have its own campground, you can reserve a shelter house to serve as your base while you enjoy a day on the water.

Buckeye Lake State Park is located at 2905 Leibs Island Rd. NE, Millersport, OH, 43046.

9. Madison Lake State Park

The 106-acre lake at Madison Lake State Park is a great place to enjoy sailing, rowing, or canoeing. Enjoy a one-mile hiking trail through woodlands and along the lake, then stop at the fully equipped picnic area for a snack!

Madison Lake State Park is located at 4860 E Park Dr., London, OH, 43140.

There are so many relaxing parks and so many activities to enjoy, and all just an hour or less outside of the city! If you want to learn more about the parks and their amenities, make sure you visit the Ohio State Parks website.

Which Ohio State Park is your favorite to visit when you’re near Columbus? Let us know in the comments below!

The post 9 Amazing State Parks Around Columbus That Will Blow You Away appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Save the date!

The 8th Annual Columbus Food Truck Festival will take place over the weekend of August 17th and 18th. This two-day event is a must-visit! For the second year in a row the festival will take place downtown in Bicentennial Park, Scioto Mile, and on the Rich Street Bridge.

So what exactly will you get to eat at the festival?

The answer is: everything you can imagine! The festival brings together around 50-60 food trucks every year. These are food trucks that you've seen around Columbus, and ones from out of town. This is the midwest's biggest food truck festival.

2017's festival had an astonishing 54 vendors.

I'm just going to list a few to get your mouth watering: Hot Chicken Takeover, Mikey's Late Night Slice, Sobremesa Street Kitchen, The Gyro Guy Cart, Hai Poke. Alright, you get the idea - there are lots of vendors and so much variety in types of food and flavors.

Here are a few quick notes to get you prepped for the festival.

Most vendors accept both cash and cards, and if you need cash, ATMs are available at the festival. The festival runs from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm on both days. Feel free to bring blankets and lawn chairs to make your visit to the festival even more comfortable. Alcohol can be purchased at the festival, however you may not bring alcohol in from the outside. The event is wheelchair accessible.

On top of serving great food, the event raises funds for some great causes.

In 2017 the festival partnered with Nationwide Children's Hospital and raised over $44,000! You can read more about the event's sponsors, vendors, and other details on their website.

Ready to get even more excited? Check out this video by Columbus foodtruckfest from last year’s festival.

Planning to go to the 8th Annual Food Truck Festival this summer? We’ll see you there!

The post The Epic Outdoor Food Fest In Columbus You Simply Cannot Miss appeared first on Only In Your State ®.

Here's the Sweetgum Trail marked in red on the west stretch of the park:

The trail consists of two loops that pass through the meadows and dense woods known as the Tall Pines Area. The entire trail is 2.6 miles long and it is rated as easy. The road is partly paved as well.

Why is it known as the Tall Pines Area?

Well, because it has gorgeous stands of pines, oaks, and sweetgum trees, of course!

You'll find plenty of variety throughout the trail.

2.6 miles is a perfectly sized loop and while the tall trees are incredible, you'll also get to experience other amazing views along the trail.

This trail is breathtaking during any season of the year.

Whether it's January and snowing or July and hot, this trail always maintains its majestic forest corridors.

If you'd like to explore even more of the part, there are several other excellent trails.

The Sweetgum Trail connects to the Monarch Trail, which runs along Walnut Creek and some of the ponds. From there, you could switch to the Buckeye Trail Loop, which will take you through old nursery trees.

When you’re looking for a lovely escape into nature, head straight for Walnut Woods Metro Park for an adventure you won’t soon forget. The park is located at 6716 Lithopolis Rd., Groveport, OH 43125. For more information on park features, check out the Metro Parks website here.

Have you had a chance to take on this beautiful hike? Let us know how you liked it, and don’t forget to share your fantastic photos with us on Instagram (@onlyincolumbus) or on the Only In Columbus Facebook page for a chance to see them featured!

The post This Just Might Be The Most Beautiful Hike In All Of Columbus appeared first on Only In Your State ®.