ohio county tourism commission

Ohio County Tourism Visitors Center-Rising Sun, IN

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THE VISITORS CENTER WILL BE CLOSED TO THE PUBLIC THROUGHOUT 2020.  (Visitors can visit the tiny unmanned Visitors Center located in the parking lot of our main office. Brochures are also available inside the Rising Star Casino Resort 24/7. For additional assistance, e-mail [email protected].)

Located at 217 N. High Street in Rising Sun, the Ohio County Tourism Visitors Center is staffed and waiting to assist locals and visitors alike with Ohio County and State information. On-site staff over materials on attractions, shops, restaurants, lodgings and events.  The staff is also available to help book group tours.

Unoccupied for over two years, the Center’s 1950s structure was a Gulf gas station, grocery store, and lastly a veterinarian’s office. Purchased in 2018 by the Ohio County Convention, Tourism and Visitors Commission, the inside was extensively renovated. With minimal updating to the exterior, the Commission kept the remaining two outdoor light fixtures and the stand-alone lighted sign frame.

Currently the Center rents golf carts to tourists (thanks to grants from the Ohio County Community Foundation and Rising Sun Regional Foundation), and hosts a seasonal Farmer’s Market, Lion’s Club fundraisers, community-wide yard sale participants, and the Halloween/Santa House.

For more information, contact the Ohio County Visitors Center at (812) 438-4933 or visit them on their website at enjoyrisingsun.com. They can be found on Facebook at Rising Sun/Ohio County Tourism and on Twitter.

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Southeast Ohio attractions begin to open for the season

CAMBRIDGE — Southeast Ohio's seasonal tourism attractions await visitors.

As families start preparing for their summer vacations, Guernsey County and the surrounding area offer a budget-friendly and enjoyable break from the usual, said Debbie Robinson , executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitor and Convention Bureau.

"With a fascinating history shaped by remarkable individuals and industries, this area is a must-visit,” she said.

Looking for an exotic adventure without the hassle of getting a passport? Look no further than The Wilds , operated by the Columbus Zoo, in Cumberland. The private, nonprofit safari park and conservation center that combines conservation science and education programs. This destination offers safe and up close animal encounters for the whole family, including beautiful giraffes and stunning painted dogs. With a rooftop Terrace Grill, specialty tours, zipline adventures and more, there's always something new to explore at The Wilds. Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily from May 1 through Oct. 31, it's the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. It is located at 14000 International Road, Cumberland. Visit www.thewilds.org today to plan your adventure.

Coal was once king in Guernsey County and you can learn why with a visit to the Guernsey County History Museum . Immerse yourself in the rich history of the area with a life-like replica of an Ohio coal mine from the 1890s. Kids will love exploring the unique one-room schoolhouse. The museum is open from noon to 3 p.m. now through Dec. 30 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children. It is located at 218 N. Eighth St., Cambridge. To find out more visit www.guernseycountyhistory.org .

The captivating art of glassmaking is preserved at the National Museum of Cambridge Glass with interactive exhibits and more than 10,000 exquisite pieces of glassware crafted by the renowned Cambridge Glass Company. From April through October, the museum offers tours and interactive exhibits to help visitors understand the intricate process of glass making from gathering to shaping, etching and engraving. The museum is open bow through Oct. 29. Guests can visit from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Saturdays and from noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $6; seniors/AAA members pay $5; children 12 and under are free. It is located at 136 S. Ninth St., Cambridge. For more information, visit www.cambridgeglassmuseum.org .

The natural beauty of Guernsey County is abundantly displayed at the Deerassic Park Welcome Center. With interactive activity centers, a slide and a mural, families will learn about the plants and animals that thrive in the region. The welcome center offers hands-on displays and information about Ohio's native wildlife. Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays, from May to October, the center is free for all visitors. Don't forget to check out the Ohio Whitetail Deer Hall of Fame while you're there. It is located at 14250 Cadiz Road, Cambridge. Plan your visit now at www.deerassic.com .

Explore American history from the Great Depression to the Great Space Race by visiting the John & Annie Glenn Museum, a national historic site. From May 3 to Oct. 28, you can experience the lives of the Glenns and gain insights into life in 1937. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Saturdays, and from 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and groups of 10 or more, $3 for students, and free for children aged 6 and below. It is located at 72 W. Main St., New Concord. Visit www.johnglennhome.org for more information.

America's fascinating history of a bustling western route is the plot for many a Zane Grey novel. Delve into the legacy of renowned Grey and his books at the National Road & Zane Grey Museum. Discover the rich narrative behind the construction of the National Road and the pioneering spirit that shaped America's heartland. Guided tours are available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from May 3 to Oct. 29, Wednesdays to Saturdays, and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $3 for students, and $5 for groups. It is located at 5550 East Pike, Norwich. Plan your visit today at www.ohiohistory.org/visit/museum-and-site-locator/national-road-and-zane-grey-museum .

Visit the historic site of Stone House Museum. Originally built in 1837 by Benjamin Kennedy, the museum is housed in the last remaining original homestead structure made of sandstone quarried nearby. When the house was originally built, it overlooked Sugar Tree Fork and likely provided majestic views of fields and pastures dotted by sheep. Today, the house is nestled in the woods, overlooking the Salt Fork Lake. In 1999, a group of volunteers raised funds and oversaw the restoration of the house. After the house was restored to its 1840s appearance, it was officially dedicated a museum. The museum is open from 1 to 5 p.m. from May 5 to Oct. 29, every Friday through Sunday. It is located at 14755 Cadiz Road, Lore City. Learn more at www.saltforkparklodge.com/recreation/property-activities/kennedy-stone-house .

Journey to Old Jerusalem with The Living Word Outdoor Drama as Ohio’s only outdoor drama celebrates its 50th season in 2024. Witness the dramatic retelling of Jesus' final days, from the iconic Sermon on the Mount to His Ascension. Performances take place each Friday from June 14 to Sept. 27. Be part of the production as extras in crowd scenes and engage with the story like never before. Tickets are available for adults at $18, seniors at $16, and children aged 4-12 at $6. It is located at 6010 College Hill Road, Cambridge. Visit www.livingworddrama.org to secure your spot today.

For more information contact the Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB office at 627 Wheeling Ave., Suite 200, Cambridge, call 740-432-2022, email [email protected] or log onto VisitGuernseyCounty.com .

Debbie Robinson is the director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitor and Convention Bureau.

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Local News | Lake County Visitors Bureau rebrands as ‘Tour…

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Local News | Lake County Visitors Bureau rebrands as ‘Tour Lake County’

Organization was formally known as ‘remarkable lake county, oh’.

It’s the beginning of a new era for the Lake County Visitors Bureau.

The organization, which had gone by “Remarkable Lake County, OH” for nearly six years, recently announced a fresh long-term branding and marketing campaign.

As the official destination marketing organization for the county, the bureau has rebranded as “Tour Lake County” and released a new logo, brand identity, and website .

Officials noted that over the past several years, Lake County has seen “a significant increase in the number of tourists coming to the area as well as growth in the number of new travel and tourism-focused projects.”

In addition, the Tour Lake County brand will “identify many of the county’s most well-known, at-a-glance tourism assets, as well as position the organization to more clearly articulate its mission of promoting tourism assets to increase overnight stays and drive economic development for its members, stakeholders, and communities.”

Tour Lake County also serves to amplify the “already successful, award-winning marketing campaigns the organization has been running over the past several years, as significant research was done in conjunction with Cleveland-based Twist Creative to guide direction, identity and marketing messaging.”

Over 1,000 people engaged in the rebranding process, officials noted, including Lake County Visitors Bureau member organizations, local travel and tourism stakeholders, area business leaders, prior visitors, and people who have never visited the area.

According to bureau staff, the broad and diverse group of individuals provided valuable insight into the development of the brand and helped shape future marketing messaging.

Subsequently, Tour Lake County enlisted the assistance of Dan Simon from Studio Simon and Skye Dillon from Skye Design Studios to turn feedback and research into a visual identity.

Officials said the design team has worked on branding projects for major entities and events, including the Super Bowl, NASCAR, Major League Baseball, Minor League Baseball, and the Kentucky Derby.

Tour Lake County Executive Director Neil Stein said the nonprofit is ecstatic with the new name.

Embracing the Remarkable Lake County, OH tag in 2019, Creative Director Trista Wright noted that, as time passed, it was time to step out of the shadows of the established brand and create something the community would get behind.

“As a designer, I am so grateful to my team and our partners for coming up with something that represents our incredible county in a way that will tell our story, at a glance, to prospective visitors — that is what branding is all about,” she said.

The 2024 marketing launch, dubbed “Your Tour Starts Here,” is the advertising campaign for Tour Lake County.

Stein noted the robust media campaign will feature broadcast and digital television spots, programmatic display ads, paid social media, influencers, online contests, print advertising, billboards, Laketran ads, sponsorships, and targeted podcast advertising.

Director of Digital Marketing and Strategy Katie Montz added that the campaign further aims to show off the range of attractions throughout the county that appeal to different types of travelers.

“Whether you’re a young family looking to start your tour at the beach or you’re a couple escaping for a weekend away by starting your tour at a winery, our goal is to inspire you to tour Lake County,” she said.

In addition to the paid marketing initiatives, the organization has also launched a new online presence and website which features updated branding, variegated itineraries, an interactive event calendar, enhanced member profiles, and features on the Lake County Taco Trail and the 30-plus wineries of the Grand River Valley .

Visitors to the site are also encouraged to view the new “Newsstand” portion, under the “Things To Do” tab, which will be continuously updated with stories related to happenings within the county’s travel and tourism industry.

For more information, contact Tour Lake County at 440-975-1234 or visit TourLakeCounty.com .

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Ohio News | Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission launches new toll collection system

The Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission implemented its new toll collection system April 10, according to a news release.

“The modernization of the toll collection system has been a long, challenging, and complex project,” said Ferzan M. Ahmed, executive director of  the Ohio Turnpike and Infrastructure Commission in the release. “But the moment we have anticipated — following meticulous testing of the electronic tolling system over the past several months — has arrived.

“Our new toll collection system, which was five years in the making, with our first contract approved by the commission in 2019, went live today (April 10, 2024) at 2 a.m. EDT. The launch of the new toll collection system, which includes open road tolling, the removal of all gates in E-ZPass entrance and exit lanes, and enhancements to our customer service center, and more are significant milestones.”

The nearly $250 million cost to modernize the toll collection system, which was funded exclusively by toll revenue, has been completed within the planned budget, Ahmed said.

“I would like to acknowledge our Commission members for their guidance, leadership, patience, and support every step of the way,” he said. “Thank you for your oversight, and for ensuring that the approved funds to build the new system were spent responsibly.

“I would also like to commend everyone who has been involved in the more than 20 projects to modernize the toll collection system since the beginning. The work performed by our staff, designers, consultants and contractors will leave a lasting legacy.”

The new toll collection system — featuring open road tolling — will continue to stimulate economic activity and growth across our 241-mile Ohio Turnpike, which is designated as Interstate 80, I-90 and I-76,” Ahmed said. “The local, regional, and national economic benefits of our top-performing facility will be immense for our commuters, travelers as well as the commercial freight industry.

“In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to monitor the performance of the new system, and close out various projects as they are completed.”

For detailed information about key changes to the new toll collection system, visit ohioturnpike.org/openroadtolling2024 .

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St. Johns County ranks first for Black history museum

St. Johns County has been ranked as the frontrunner for the new Florida Museum of Black History , the county announced Tuesday.

St. Johns was followed by Eatonville/Orange County, Sarasota and Opa-locka.

The Florida Museum of Black History task force invited the county to a special meeting in Tallahassee on Friday to answer questions about its proposal. The top three sites will go to the state for final consideration.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill ( HB 1441 ) last May to create a museum dedicated to Black history.

Initial criteria, discussed during a task force meeting in December, outlined 12 expectations. Local funding and community support had the highest impact compared with historical significance, availability of land, adaptability of the location and infrastructure.

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Other communities that applied were Amelia Island, Quincy, Seminole County, Daytona Beach, Havana, Jackson County, Panama City and St. Petersburg.

The St. Johns County Board of County Commissioners voted to negotiate a purchase and sale agreement with Florida Memorial University to develop a campus-style museum of African American history, performing arts, cultural exhibits and more.

A feasibility study in 2019 called for a self-sustaining performing arts facility with a 500-seat main theater and a 200-seat black box theater along with supporting facilities and amenities.

“Let’s go get this and make it happen!” County Commission Chair Sara Arnold said in a news release Tuesday.

Florida Memorial, one of the oldest academic centers in the state, began its third incarnation in St. Augustine in 1918, the news release said.

The advent of the Civil Rights Movement brought a whirlwind of changes to St. Augustine. Students joined the movement, and their events significantly influenced federal legislation resulting in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

But the activism created tensions in the community, and the school was relocated to Dade County in 1965, with Florida Memorial maintaining ownership of the land in West Augustine, the county said.

Tera Meeks, tourism and cultural development director, cited a cultural marketing review from 2020 that indicated St. Johns County is a world-class destination for African American heritage.

It read in part that “St. Johns County has the assets and product to compete as a world-class African American Heritage destination.” It also concluded, “It is difficult to name a destination in the United States with a more varied and rich history of the African American experience than St. Johns County.”

Meeks said county leaders will take charter buses to Tallahassee with community partners to “continue our collective pitch that St. Johns County is the premiere location for this museum.”

County Administrator Joy Andrews also pitched St. Johns County as the best choice.

“There is not another locale within the state better poised for this museum,” Andrews said. “St. Johns County embodies Florida’s history at first sight. We possess the power to cultivate and uphold a Black History Museum here. Our community network is robust, our partnerships strong. It’s our duty to champion culture, to pay homage to history, ensuring this endeavor thrives now and for generations to come.”

Information from Jacksonville Today reporter Will Brown was used in the report.

Randy comes to Jacksonville from the  South Florida Sun-Sentinel , where as metro editor, he led investigative coverage of the Parkland school shooting that won the  2019 Pulitzer Prize for public service.  He has spent more than 40 years in reporting and editing positions in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Ohio and Florida. 

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