
Are your weekends sometimes so activity-packed that you welcome Monday's return to work just to catch your breath? As Mother Nature shows off her splendor one last time before winter sets in, fall is a great time to plan a restful weekend getaway far from the bright lights of the big city. Recharge your batteries at one of these delightful cabins within convenient distance from your home in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Distance From: Cleveland (198 miles) | Columbus (58 miles) | Cincinnati (138 miles)
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Getting back to nature doesn't have to mean giving up your favorite leisure-time amenities. The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls features charming 1840s cabins nestled deep in a natural setting that includes trees, caves, rock formations, and waterfalls. A log cabin also houses Kindred Spirits, the Inn's casual fine-dining restaurant with an open kitchen layout and seasonally enclosed patio. Enhance your feeling of serenity with a massage, body wrap, and other pampering treatments at the onsite spa. Visit the website for information on special packages and promotions.
Distance From: Cleveland (174 miles) | Columbus (92 miles) | Cincinnati (193 miles)
Get up close and personal with nature at the appropriately-named Antler Ridge Cabin. Sightings of deer, turkey, foxes, and other wildlife let you know you're miles away from the city. At night, sit on the deck and relax to the ambient sounds of owls, frogs, and crickets. Semi-guided deer and turkey hunting tours are offered in season. Antler Ridge has three luxury cabins, the newest of which sleeps up to 12 people. Amenities in all three include air conditioning, washer/dryer, TVs and DVD players, outdoor gas grills, and fully-equipped kitchens.
Distance From: Cleveland (190 miles) | Columbus (48 miles) | Cincinnati (127 miles)
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Looking for some quality time with your significant other? With four cabins built for two, Ash Ridge Cabins is designed with couples in mind. Located minutes from Hocking Hills State Park but far from urban life, Ash Ridge is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities by day followed by a quiet evening indoors. Furniture in all four cabins is custom-built by local Amish craftsmen. Maple Lane, Lovers Loft, and Sweetheart Cabins are equipped with brand-new game rooms and indoor hot tubs, while Cuddle Bug Cottage has a game room and open-air hot tub. Spacious windows in all units allow plenty of natural light along with spectacular views.
Distance From: Cleveland (78 miles) | Columbus (87 miles) | Cincinnati (194 miles)
Do you feel like it's impossible to truly get away in our wired world? With no TVs or WiFi service, Tranquil Acres Cabins lets you go off the grid and tune in to nature. The five cabins are situated at least 350 feet apart for a welcome sense of solitude. For larger groups, Sleepy Bear Cabin has a new basement suite that includes a second bathroom and kitchenette. Another recent addition is a pavilion overlooking the catch-and-release fishing pond. Spend the day exploring the nature trails on the grounds, then unwind in your private hot tub or sitting in front of your remote-controlled gas fireplace.
Distance From: Cleveland (83 miles) | Columbus (72 miles) | Cincinnati (179 miles)
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Like many areas in Northeast Ohio, Mohican State Park owes its spectacular scenery to the Ice Age. More than 14,000 years ago, glaciers traveled across the landscape, carving gorges and creating mineral and rock deposits. Mohican's centerpiece, Clear Fork Gorge, plummets 300 feet deep and measures more than 1,000 feet across at its top. The park has several recently remodeled two-bedroom cabins along the Clear Fork River, some where pets are permitted, that sleep up to six guests. Anglers flock to Mohican for largemouth and smallmouth bass, bluegill, white crappie, and brown trout. If you want more active pursuits, check out the park's numerous hiking and biking trails, some of which pass the Gorge as well as two waterfalls and a covered bridge.
Distance From: Cleveland (33 miles) | Columbus (157 miles) | Cincinnati (265 miles)
Anchored by a stunning 150-acre natural "kettle" lake, Punderson State Park offers a wide range of activities to satisfy all ages. Rent a boat at the marina for a day of fishing or sightseeing out on the water. If you want more lively pursuits, challenge family and friends to traditional golf, disc golf, volleyball, basketball, or horseshoes. Lace up your walking shoes or rent a bike and hit the 11 miles of trails, keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife or bird sightings. Each of the park's 26 cabins sleeps up to six guests and pets are allowed at some.
Distance From: Cleveland (114 miles) | Columbus (107 miles) | Cincinnati (211 miles)
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Could there be a more authentic name for a rustic cabin than Possum Lodge? While the cabin itself is in a woodsy, secluded setting, the location offers easy access to a diverse assortment of activities. Nearby Salt Fork State Park, bookended by two lakes, provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and boating. Zipline tours, wineries, and quaint towns to explore are all within a 30-minute drive. The roomy cabin is designed to be a "home away from home" with a luxurious great-room layout that includes a floor-to-ceiling wood-burning fireplace and satellite TV. Front and rear covered porches hold a gas grill and tavern-style seating so you can enjoy the views while dining or simply lounging with a cold drink and good book.
Distance From: Cleveland (79 miles) | Columbus (123 miles) | Cincinnati (235 miles)
Historic Marblehead Peninsula is one of Northeast Ohio's more popular getaway spots. Kaspar's Lake Breeze Cabins, located on the shores of Lake Erie, makes a comfortable home base for exploring the many attractions of the area. Marblehead Lighthouse stands guard less than a mile away, while legendary amusement park Cedar Point is visible directly across Sandusky Bay. Kelleys Island and South Bass Island, home of Put-In-Bay, are only an hour away by ferry. All cabins are fully furnished, including color TVs and free WiFi service. Ask about nightly rentals during fall months.
Distance From: Cleveland (75 miles) | Columbus (91 miles) | Cincinnati (207 miles)
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Amish Country is an appealing blend of culture, history and scenery. Immerse yourself in the full experience with a stay at Coblentz Country Cabins. Situated on a gentle hillside overlooking a pond, the cabins are less than 1/4-mile from downtown Berlin and its collection of antique malls, craft and gift shops, and vintage clothing boutiques. There's even a classic general store where you can find anything from gourmet food products to home decor items. Seven cabins offer lodging for up to 10 guests, with amenities including hot tubs, fireplaces, TVs, and full kitchens.
What's the one must-have item you take along on a country getaway?

Fall is a wonderful time of the year in Ohio. The cool autumn breeze, the spooky arrival of Halloween festivities, and the many community festivals make this our favorite season for living in Ohio. Of course, you can't mention fall in Ohio without noting the gorgeous colors of the changing leaves.
15610 Vaughn Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141
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Residents of Akron and Cleveland will agree that a trip to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park does wonders for the soul. A great place to reconnect with nature, there's so much to see and do in this national park that it's not surprising that it draws visitors from near and far each year. During the autumn, the Cuyahoga River weaves its way through rolling hills, farmland, and forests, glistening brightly as it collects falling leaves from the changing trees. With more than 125 miles of trail to hike, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a must-visit in autumn for anyone who loves to embrace the season's beauty.
Center Rd., Garrettsville, OH 44231
A few miles southeast of Cleveland is the Eagles Creek Nature Preserve which is full of Northeast Ohio's wonderfully diverse plants and animals. The landscape varies from marshes and swamps to woodlands and forests, offering a truly exceptional view into the many habitats that house such interesting biodiversity. Manageable trails lead you into this underrated gem, providing you with privacy and peace while you gaze at mix of yellows, reds, oranges, and browns that paint a stunning portrait.
12021 Echo Dell Road, East Liverpool, OH 43920
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Do you want a little outdoor adventure to mix in with your sightseeing? Then head to Beaver Creek State Park to watch the leaves change as you cruise down the Little Beaver Creek on a canoe. If you'd rather stay on land, you can hike the many trails on foot, atop a mountain bike, or on horseback. Whichever you choose, make sure you bring your camera to photograph the dazzling colors of this rugged landscape.
16396 Tar Hollow Rd., Laurelville, OH 43135
Immerse yourself in the dense woodlands and deep ravines of Tar Hollow State Park as you get lost in the beauty of the Appalachian Plateau. A walk through Tar Hollow State Park will make you feel like you're in the wilderness worlds away from Columbus. Turkeys, turtles, skinks, snakes, and more call this area of Ohio home. A stroll through Tar Hollow's 604-acres offers a great way to see the changing of the leaves, only rivaled by the beautiful colors that spring back to life once winter ends.
400 W. Whittier St., Columbus, OH 43215
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Downtown Columbus may be a bustling cityscape, but the Scioto Audubon Metro Park offers an opportunity to get back in touch with nature just a few blocks from the skyscrapers. The park covers 120-acres of previously industrial land, now refreshed as a thriving oasis where wildlife flourishes. The views along the Scioto River, chirping of the birds, and miles of multi-use trails are ideal for working professionals who only have a small period of time to escape from the daily grind. Because it's so close to home, you can visit every weekend and watch as the landscape changes from green to bright reds.
834 Edgewater Dr., St. Marys, OH 45885
Where better to see the leaves change than from the water? The popular boating destination of Grand Lake St. Marys State Park is a beachside paradise where you can relax on or offshore and watch the trees transform around you. We think that this state park is a wonderful place to take the kids for an overnight stay, as fishing, hiking, hunting, and boating opportunities sit alongside volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, a playground, basketball courts, and an off-leash dog park.
4404 OH-125, West Portsmouth, OH 45663
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Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, the Shawnee State Forest is a breathtaking place to become one with nature. Totaling 1100-acres of the 63,000-acre forest, Shawnee State Park is a fantastic place for a weekend getaway with the family. This state park is a popular place to hunt, fish, boat, and hike, offering you the opportunity to take in the changing of the leaves on the banks of the Ohio River. The Shawnee Lodge & Conference Center is within the forest, making it a perfect location to enjoy unspoiled nature during the day before returning to cozy creature comforts at night.
5083 Colerain Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45223
You don't have to leave Cincinnati's city limits to enjoy a getaway in nature. Mt. Airy Forest was one of the earliest urban reforestation projects in the country and now provides nearly 1500-acres of multi-use space for hiking, biking, picnicking, and more. Mt. Airy's accessibility isn't limited to its proximity to the city. The forest has an enclosed dog park for hikers to let their pets run free and also houses the state's sole public treehouse that is accessible for those using a wheelchair.
144 Lake Rd., Chillicothe, OH 45601
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Equal distance between Cincinnati and Columbus, Scioto Trail State Park is a fantastic destination to watch the leaves change this autumn. This park is within the 9,000-acre Scioto Trail State Forest but only encompasses 218-acres, making it an easy state park to tackle in a single trip. Bordering the Scioto River, this area offers amazing views of the Scioto River Valley. Bring a fishing rod to cast a line in the river or pack up the camping gear and spend an early-fall evening enjoying the quiet swaying of the trees.
Where is your favorite spot around Ohio to see the leaves change?
'Tis the season to dress up as your inner hero or villain and get free candy! The most committed of trick-or-treaters are already forming their routes and strategies for a successful night of trick-or-treating. When it comes time to knock on doors, there are several fail-safe methods for filling your bag with sweets. Of course, part of it has to do with wearing the perfect costume, but choosing a route that is safe, walkable and full of friendly, candy-bearing houses is just as important.
We rounded up the neighborhoods in Cincinnati that are the most ideal for trick-or-treaters. If you are new to the area or want to try some new locations to maximize your trick-or-treating loot, these are the spots where you want to ring doorbells!
Use our interactive map to find the best trick-or-treating neighborhood near you!
This upscale neighborhood located just east of town is known for its popular shopping district, safe streets and beautiful homes. The spacious front yards are always filled with crowd-pleasing decorations, and residents of the homes will generously dole out candy to those who approach their door. Regardless of what route you take, you will surely be met with friendly faces and other fun-loving families taking part in the candy hunt. For some extra fun before Halloween, make sure to stop by Hyde Park Square on October 29 for Halloween on the Square!
This Halloween, make your way to Mt. Lookout, located on the east side of Cincinnati next to Hyde Park, for a warm, welcoming atmosphere, extravagant Halloween decorations, and (most importantly) plenty of candy. Known as an accessible, family-friendly neighborhood, the streets of Mt. Lookout are filled with children of all ages on Halloween night. Make a day of it and check out the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in costume before trick-or-treating starts!
Known as a safe, family-friendly community with plenty of small-town charm, Deer Park is a prime location for trick-or-treaters on Halloween night. The streets in this area are well-lit, very walkable and incredibly festive. Because the area is such a well-kept secret on Halloween night, a huge candy haul is inevitable—so don't forget to bring an extra bag!
The well-lit, decorated streets in Oakley make it an ideal location for trick-or-treaters. On Halloween night, expect the neighborhood to be teeming with foot traffic! The residents welcome locals and visitors alike with open arms, doling out generous amounts of candy and other goodies. And if you happen to be a little too old for trick-or-treating these days—no problem! Several businesses around the area are planning on hosting Halloween parties this year, including the 20th Century Theater who will be hosting their annual Oakley Masquerade on November 1st.
College Hill is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Cincinnati, welcoming anyone and everyone to their park-like streets on Halloween. The residents go all-out every year, slinging pumpkins, fake spiderwebs, eerie skeletons and spooky lights on every surface they can reach. The area also happens to be home to Mark Wiechman, a Halloween enthusiast who has been putting on a massive haunted house to scare families for more than 50 years. So put on your costume and head to 6791 Marvin Avenue, Cincinnati in North College Hill to start your spooky night off right. The haunted house experience is completely free, but they do accept donations for the Pray, Hope and Believe Foundation.
If you're a resident of the Mt. Washington neighborhood, make sure to get extra treats! This area transforms into a Halloween stomping ground for little monsters and their families on All Hallow's Eve. Also make sure to come back to the area the weekend after Halloween for the neighborhood's annual Pumpkin Chuck, where they'll launch leftover pumpkins from trebuchets and enjoy live music, craft beer, kids games and more!
Located about 15 miles from downtown Cincinnati, Wyoming is a quiet suburb full of tree-lined streets and historic sights. This year, the community is planning on handing out goodies from 6-8 p.m. on the 31st. If you're lucky, you might even snag a cup of hot apple cider or a bag of freshly popped popcorn.
Just west of Cincinnati lie the Price Hill and West Price Hill neighborhoods, a candy-hunter's haven on Halloween night. An estimated 500+ trick-or-treaters gather in the area on the spooky holiday to beg for candy, popcorn and other tasty treats! Important note: Residents of Price Hill turn OFF their lights if they are giving out candy and turn ON their lights if they are not.
Located in Northeast Cincinnati, Pleasant Ridge is a charming neighborhood and very popular among families. The residents take their Halloween festivities seriously, hosting several Halloween events—including an annual pub crawl and Ghoul Fest—prior to October 31, and decorating their homes to the nines for trick-or-treating shenanigans.
Did we miss your favorite spot to go trick-or-treating in the Cincinnati area? Tell us all about it in the comments or on Instagram using #CutlerExplores!
Fall is officially underway! The leaves are changing colors, pumpkins are back on the menu and you've probably already started thinking about this year's Halloween costume.
But the season will be over before you know it, so take advantage of autumn before it ends by attending one of these events happening in the Cincinnati area this fall!
To help you get started on your seasonal calendar, we rounded up some of our most anticipated fall happenings in the area. Here, you'll find everything from fun harvest festivals to must-attend 5K races and a...