For our Mothman adventure, since it was so close, we flew in through Ohio. We took a scenic drive through the mountains of West Virginia in our rented car to our b’n’b. The place was an idyllic dream, set out on a farm with nothing but acres of land surrounding us. We found our rustic lodgings comfortable, and our host even baked us a fresh loaf of bread for our morning breakfast.
Wine o’Clock
We began with a charming local winery in Ohio (sadly, no longer in business) that offered a sampling of wines on a Mothman-shaped tray. My friends and I coined it the Flight of the Mothman. I enjoyed the wine so much I bought a bottle to take home. And we loved the vibes of the place enough to return a couple of times throughout our trip.
We found another winery in the area, the Merry Family Winery, that served a delightful frosé. When a biker gang of big burly men and tough ladies pulled into the place in their leather jackets, for a moment we considered what was about to happen. But it turned out, they had also come for the frosé. It seemed the winery had a reputation, and rightfully so.
Columbus, Ohio – German Village
After our fun at Mothman Festival, our trip ended in the German Village in Columbus, Ohio. Let me tell you, this is a place I’d love to return to. I fell in love with the neighborhood, architecture and overall vibes. Something about it felt so right.
We took a stroll through Schiller Park, enjoying the beautiful day and thriving garden. The fountains, paved paths and open space filled my soul with a sense of peace. And it’s the perfect way to admire the German-style houses that help define the community’s identity. It tells a rich story of immigration and making a new home.
By the end of the trip, it was just me and Stormy left to travel together. This definitely helped solidify our friendship and gave us the opportunity to get to know each other better. Taking a break from our walking, we stopped in at a local bar for lunch. We shared a Germal pretzel with homemade mustard and locally made root beer. If you want to make new friends, the best way to do it is over good food and drinks.
The Book Loft
I am a certified bookworm, so you know I had to stop in at the local bookstore. Made up of 32 rooms, at least at the time we visited, and winding aisles that lead from one room to the next all filled with books, it’s a reader’s dream.
Stormy and I spent the remainder of our time in Ohio in that bookstore. We browsed for a couple of second-hand books to bring home and some feminist swag. It was the perfect end to an incredible trip before heading to the airport and making our way home.
Have you been to Ohio before or are from Ohio? What do you recommend I check out next? Let me know in the comments!