By Lisa Russell
There are plenty of fun things to do in both Nebraska and Ohio, all year round. Most activities are family friendly, adventurous and casual, and vary between historical relevance and just plain frivolity.
Ohio's Nautica Queen Cruise Dining Ship
All aboard the Nautica Queen for a lunch or dinner cruise and dancing, as you float on Lake Erie. Dancing cruises and charters are available all year round. Climate-controlled decks ensure that you're comfortable. The ship leaves from Cleveland, Ohio, and reservations are recommended.
Nautica Queen Cruise Dining Ship
1153 Main Ave.
West Bank, Cleveland
Cleveland, Ohio 44113
(216) 696-8888
www.nauticaqueen.com
Take a Ride on Nebraska's "World's Largest Porch Swing"
To fully experience Nebraska lifestyle, it might be wise to sit a spell on a porch swing that holds 18 adults or 24 children. The swing is available year-round, at no charge, courtesy of the city of Hebron. Now that's hospitality!
World's Largest Porch Swing
City park, 5th St & Jefferson Avenue
Hebron, Nebraska
(402) 768-7156
Website: http://www.ci.hebron.ne.us
Tour Ohio's Harry London Chocolate Factory
Harry London has been producing gourmet chocolates using the same recipes since 1922. You can tour the 20,000-square-foot chocolate factory and sample treats fresh from the production line. The gift shop features Harry London chocolates (including sugar-free varieties and memorabilia. Reservations are required for the tour. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday-Friday
Harry London Chocolate Factory
5353 Lauby Road
North Canton, Ohio 44720
(330) 494-0833
http://www.harrylondon.com/
Nebraska's Oregon Trail Wagon Train
Experience the westward migration like a true pioneer. Well, almost. These day-trips feature real wagon train rides, aboard a real covered prairie schooner, led by guides with a passion for the history and spirit of the pioneers. Seasonal food is prepared at the chuckwagon. On the trail and overnight trips are available.
Oregon Trail Wagon Train
Route 2 Box 502
Bayard, Nebraska
(308) 586-1850
www.oregontrailwagontrain.com
Nebraska's Famous Carhenge
And last, but not least, there's Carhenge. If you're picturing a bunch of junk cars piled up to look like Stonehenge, then you have the right idea. Six Nebraska families built this monument during the course of a family reunion in 1987. Also on the site are other sculptures made from automotive components. The site has a visitors center, gift shop and information kiosk. Admission is free, donations are accepted.
Friends of Carhenge
P.O. Box 464
Alliance Nebraska 69301
(800) 738-0648
ww.carhenge.com
About the Author:
Lisa Russell is an entrepreneur and writer from Washington State, with a professional background in education, cosmetology and the restaurant industry. She's been published in regional parenting publications, homeschooling publications and has published over 10,000 articles online since 1999. She studied Early Childhood Education at Antelope Valley College.
