Why travel far when Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky continue to be a delightful slice of Americana? Whether your interests run to entertainment, shopping, culture, or outdoor activities, you'll find it at these wonderful locations.

Boone County Arboretum

9190 Camp Ernst Rd., Union, KY 41091

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Few things can bring a smile to faces like the colorful and charming sight of flowers and plants. With more than 3,600 trees and flowering shrubs, Boone County Arboretum will instantly brighten your day. Also known as Central Park, the arboretum was the first in the country to be created within an active recreational park setting. Pet-friendly Boone County Arboretum also holds the highest level of recognition accorded by the Arbnet Accreditation Program. Admission is free for all visitors, and hours are dawn to dusk daily.

Wolf Creek Habitat & Rescue

14099 Wolf Creek Rd., Brookville, IN 47012

Get a rare chance for an up-close look at one of nature's more magnificent creatures. Wolf Creek Habitat & Rescue is a non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public about the true nature of wolves. The habitat even features rustic cabins you can rent where you can fall asleep to the sound of their howls. Admission to the observation decks is free, and with a $50 donation, you can actually interact with the different packs. Wolf Creek is open weekends from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. during winter and 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. during summer.

Findlay Market

1801 Race St., Cincinnati, OH 45202

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Do you think a farmers market is just a handful of fruit and vegetable stands? You could easily spend an entire day taking in the sights and sounds at Findlay Market. Ohio's oldest continuously-operated market draws upwards of one million visitors each year. More than 50 vendors are on hand with top-quality meat, seafood, produce, ethnic and specialty foods, and flowers. When you're hungry, choose from more than two dozen dine-in and carry-out options. Weekends feature live performers and special events, such as the upcoming Valentine's Day Sweet & Savory Stroll. Findlay Market is open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site

3380 Beaver Rd., Union, KY 41091

Past and present meet at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site. One of the main draws is the site's herd of bison, the largest land mammal in North America and the last mammalian link to the Ice Age. The museum includes exhibits spotlighting fossil finds and other on-site research, while Discovery Trail has dioramas and interpretive panels about the park's illustrious prehistoric times. Hike one of the dog-friendly trails, enjoy a game of miniature golf, and relax with the family on 40 acres of picnic grounds. Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is open seven days a week from dawn until dark, and admission is free.

Rabbit Hash General Store

10021 Lower River Rd., Rabbit Hash, KY 41005

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Rabbit Hash General Store is only about 30 minutes from the bustling urban center of Cincinnati, but when you visit, you'll feel as though you've stepped into a whole different place and time. Legend has it that the town was named after a dish that became popular after the flood of 1847. As with many small rural towns, the general store, which dates back to 1831, serves as the heart of the community. In addition to groceries and staples, visitors find a fascinating selection of antiques, collectibles, and gift items, including products made by local artisans. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. seven days a week.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

50 E. Freedom Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202

Explore one of the difficult yet inspirational chapters in American history. The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center features several permanent and traveling exhibits showcasing stories of freedom. Some exhibits include film, role-playing actors, and hands-on activities. Trace your own history using the resources available in the John Parker Library and Family Search Center. Admission is $15 for adults and $10.50 for ages 3-12. Hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.

Boone County Distilling Co.

10601 Toebben Dr., Boone County, KY 41501

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The slogan at Boone County Distilling Co., makers of authentic bourbon whiskey, is "Made by Ghosts." This isn't a literal statement but rather a tribute to the men who pioneered distilling in Boone County. Tour the 5,000 square-foot facility and visit the barrel-shaped sampling room to try award-winning products such as Bourbon Cream and Tanner's Curse Rye. Boone County Distilling Co. is also a stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, so be sure to get your passport stamped. Tour tickets are $14 for ages 21 and over and $7 for ages 16-20. Reservations are recommended but not required. Distillery hours are 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday. 

Full Throttle Adrenaline Park

24 Spiral Dr., Florence, KY 41042

Get some high-octane thrills with the extreme activities offered at Full Throttle Adrenaline Park. Take a spin in a go-kart that travels at twice the conventional speed, face off with zombies in the virtual reality arena, or try your hand at axe throwing. Need to blow off some steam? Take it out smashing glass bottles, TVs, and other breakables in the Rage Room. Refuel at the convenient on-site food and beverage bar. Activities can be chosen individually, or you can purchase an inclusive Adrenaline Pass for $55. Full Throttle is open 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. - midnight Friday and Saturday, and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Sunday.

Exploring We Will Go

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