
Are you ready to embrace fitness this fall and have a great time in the process? The fall season is a busy time for 5k races in Columbus and nearby communities, with events suited to every type of racer. Whether you're aiming to bring home awesome prizes while setting a personal best time, or you simply want to enjoy a fun run/walk while supporting charitable causes, there's a local race with your name on it. Start planning for fall fitness fun now with our guide to fall races around Columbus for you to enjoy this year.
4850 W. Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065
Why not turn your next 5k adventure into a family day at the zoo? The Zoo "Run Run" 5K & Kids "Ele-Fun-Run" will be held at the Columbus Zoo on October 30, 2022. Start your day with a 5k run/walk for adults or the special quarter-mile "Ele-Fun-Run" for the kids. Then spend the rest of your day exploring all that the Columbus Zoo has to offer, with free admission to the zoo and free parking for race participants. All participants will also receive a fun, specially designed t-shirt, a finisher's medal, and refreshments after the race.
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The Gourdy's Pumpkin Run 5k series has become a popular fall event in many communities around the country, and the Columbus edition is no exception. Gourdy's Pumpkin Run: Columbus will be held on a street course that winds through downtown Columbus on November 5, 2022, and features plenty of fun perks to get you in the spirit of the fall season. Your registration fee includes a unique lightweight hoodie ideal for fall running, finisher's medal, and commemorative race bib. A free cup of apple cider will also be waiting for you at the finish line, along with a small pumpkin to take home as a souvenir.
9801 Hyland-Croy Rd., Plain City, OH 43064
Celebrate Halloween in style at the Monster Dash 5k, which supports the United Way of Union County and will take place at the scenic Glacier Ridge Metro Park on October 29, 2022. The entire event is geared toward families, with costumes encouraged and a "Little Gremlins" race for the youngest participants. Get all dressed up in your favorite Halloween costume, then compete to take home a truly unique, monster-themed medal. Every dollar raised through registration fees and donations supports the United Way.
105 Park Dr., Columbus, OH 43209
The Turkey Trails series features locations around Ohio and beyond, with the Columbus event taking place on November 6, 2022, at Wolfe Park. This is a family-friendly event, with free, fun activities to enjoy before and after the race. During the race, track your progress with chip timing, live results, and awards. After the race, there will be some delicious food to enjoy, along with free photos and Thanksgiving-themed activities. Can't make it to Columbus on the day of the race? There will also be a virtual race that allows you to join the fun from anywhere.
157 E. Fair Ave., Lancaster, OH 43130
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Raise money for a great cause and have some fun in the process when you participate in the United Way of Fairfield Annual 5k and 2-Mile Fun Walk at the Fairfield County Fairgrounds on November 12, 2022. This event has been a local favorite since the first race in 1997 and serves as an important annual fundraiser for the United Way of Fairfield. In addition to prizes for top finishers, there's a special trophy that goes to the local business which has the most participants in the race.
3800 Veterans Memorial Dr., Hilliard, OH 43026
Head to Roger A. Reynolds Municipal Park for The Dash For Camp 5k Run/Walk, taking place this year on November 12, 2022. This race serves as a key annual fundraiser for Camp Hamwi, a non-profit organization that provides services for Ohio kids and teens with diabetes. It also raises money for a variety of diabetes education programs around Central Ohio. There will be awards for the top finishers in each category and for the top fundraisers as well. After the race, stick around to enjoy a hot chocolate social with refreshments and family activities for all ages.
303 W. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
We all enjoy indulging in some seasonal treats during the holidays, so why not get a head start on holiday season fitness with a fun event like the Candy Cane Course Columbus 5k and 10k races? The event kicks off on December 4, 2022, at Genoa Park in Columbus and features a free Kids Dash so you can involve the youngest members of the family in the fun. There will also be a costume contest, free race photos, outstanding post-race food, and fun, holiday-themed activities for the whole family to enjoy.
1000 Sunbury Rd., Delaware, OH 43015
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What better way to start Thanksgiving day than a healthy, fun 5k run before you settle in for a day of delicious dining with the family? The Delaware Turkey Trot kicks off on Thanksgiving morning, November 24, 2022, on a course that starts just behind the Designer Fashion Warehouse. There are three races to enjoy: a 5k run/walk, 2-mile run/walk, and Little Gobbler Kid's Fun Run. All proceeds from the Delaware Turkey Trot support the Autism Society of Central Ohio, with nearly $175,000 over its first 10 years of races.
Where will you cross your next finish line?

Trains were once a primary mode of transportation in the United States. Although railroads now see less use, plenty are still around. There are a lot of places in Ohio where you can take a train ride, see some beautiful scenery, and in some cases, learn a little more about railroads and trains in the process. Here are some of the top Ohio train rides worth taking.
5700 OH-204, Mt Perry, OH 43760
This train follows a historic rail line called the Glass Rock Spur. The company is run by volunteers who make the experience fun and lighthearted. The train cars are historical, and that's part of the thrill. Many of the rides are themed for the seasons.
The Zanesville & Western Scenic Railroad is a great place to visit with kids. The ride isn't too long, and tickets are affordable at $9 per adult and $5 per child.
7900 Old Rockside Rd., Independence, OH 44131
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If you happen to be in Northeast Ohio, take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. This train runs from Independence to Akron, passing through Cuyahoga National Park. It's a great way to see more of the park's scenery and wildlife. There are several routes of varying lengths to choose from.
The trains on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad have a cafe car. Check out the ride schedule on the railroad's website, and buy your tickets in advance. Prices start at just $11 for some of the shorter routes. You can also buy an all-day pass, which allows you to board and deboard as you please.
2261 Hubbard Rd., Youngstown, OH 44505
J&L Narrow Gauge Railroad is a great place to learn about steel mills and their role in the railroad industry. The company maintains a 24" demonstration railroad where you can ride a heavy, steel locomotive. You can also see an original, full-scale steel locomotive by Jones & Laughlin Steel.
This train offers rides on the second and fourth weekends of every month through October. Trains depart every 30 minutes between 10 am and 2 pm, and the rides last about 15 minutes. Tickets are $8 per person.
400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621
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The Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is a great place to learn about the use of railroads during WWII. The railroad was used to transport servicemen heading off to war. The Depot has been converted into a museum where you can see displays and films related to railroad history. You can also take a ride on the historic train.
During the holiday season, the train at the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is converted into the Polar Express. This is a perfect opportunity for families with children to enjoy a festive ride.
Carillon Boulevard, Dayton, OH 45439
The Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society maintains a passenger train that travels on a small, 1/8-scale track. The train only operates on certain days; a ride schedule is available on their website. A $1 donation is suggested for each passenger, and additional donations are encouraged. All proceeds go towards track maintenance, fuel, and other expenses.
If you really enjoy your ride on the Carillon Park Railway, consider becoming a member of their society. Members help design and maintain the on-site tracks and get additional riding privileges.
990 Proprietors Rd., Worthington, OH 43085
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Ohio Railway Museum is the perfect place to learn about the history of trains and streetcars, especially as used around Columbus, Ohio. An on-site train runs every Sunday at 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 pm.
Rides are just $9 for adults and $7 for kids. This price also grants you admission into the museum and outdoor grounds. Plus, you can visit the gift shop for a souvenir.
46789 OH-18, Wellington, OH 44090
The Lorain & West Virginia Railway was built in 1906 and remained active until the 1970s. It is now maintained as a passenger train where you can enjoy different themed rides throughout the year. In October, there's a Fall Foliage ride, and in November and December, it becomes the Santa Train.
Learn more about these seasonal rides on the railroad's website. Tickets typically go on sale 60 days before an event.
16 E. South St., Lebanon, OH 45036
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The Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad travels through Warren County, just outside Cincinnati. You can catch the train in Lebanon and ride for about 9 miles round-trip. You'll pass through Turtle Creek, Union Township, and Mason or Monroe along the way. Five railroad bridges are crossed on this ride, the longest of which stretches over Turtle Creek.
The trains on the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad all feature coaches built in the 1930s with bench-style seats and open windows. All train cars are heated, and some have air conditioning. You can buy tickets for the train in person at the railway ticket office.
Northeastern Ohio Live Steamers is a steam train club that offers public rides on certain dates. A few rides are coming up on September 17, October 14, and October 15, 20220. Rides are free, but donations are encouraged.
Some rides on the Northeast Ohio Live Steamers train are themed. For example, the October rides are Halloween-themed, and guests are encouraged to wear costumes. All ages are welcome.
Which one of these train rides will you embark on this year? Don't forget to blow the whistle as you roll by!

Fall is one of the most exciting times of year for festivals in Ohio communities, with celebrations of food, drink, music, history, and so much more on the schedule. Whether you visit an event like Cleveland Oktoberfest in Northeast Ohio, the Mohican Bluegrass Festival near Columbus, or the Ohio Renaissance Festival around the corner from Cincinnati, you're sure to find a place to make memories this fall. You can find information on those festivals and many more in our guide to Ohio fall festivals for 2022.
1289 Edison St. NW, Hartville, OH 44632
The fun begins at Hartville Marketplace for the 17th Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Festival, which takes place on September 24 from 9 am to 4 pm. This family-friendly festival is filled with art, crafts, great food, live entertainment, and fun activities for all ages. Spend your day uncovering unique finds from more than 200 crafts vendors, enjoy various seasonal activities, or watch the kids have a great time playing on outdoor inflatables. Start your holiday shopping early with crafty gifts, or find the perfect piece to decorate your home.
19201 E. Bagley Rd., Berea, OH 44130
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The highly anticipated annual Cleveland Oktoberfest will occur at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds and Event Center from September 2-5, 2022. It's one of the best ways to enjoy Labor Day weekend in the city, with everything from wiener dog races to strongman competitions. Of course, there will be plenty of great beer, traditional German cuisine, and fantastic live music to enjoy all weekend long. Discover the latest beers from the best microbreweries in the Cleveland area, then cast your vote to help crown a Cleveland Oktoberfest champion.
8800 Euclid Chardon Rd., Kirtland, OH 44094
Fall is a great time to celebrate the harvest of the season, so it would be hard to pick a better time for the Apple Butter & Cider Weekend at Lake Metroparks Farmpark in Kirtland. This event takes place on October 1-2, 2022, from 9 AM through 5 PM. Learn all about how apple butter and apple cider are produced, watch traditional harvest activities, then sample the delicious dishes that result from the process. There will also be a variety of seasonal activities, highlighted by the three-acre Johnny Appleseed Trail corn maze.
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The 24th Annual Ohio Pawpaw Festival is a celebration of the pawpaw, North America's largest native tree fruit, taking place on September 16-18, 2022, around Lake Snowden. You will have the opportunity to sample meals that highlight the great flavor of the pawpaw, peruse pawpaw-related works of art, and enjoy tons of family-friendly activities while you explore. Enjoy live music from some of Ohio's best bands all weekend long, and be sure to check out the Kids Central area, which features plenty of fun, hands-on activities for younger visitors. Interested in the agricultural side of pawpaws? This festival also features educational panels on growing, cooking, medicinal use, sustainability, and even the genetics of the pawpaw.
22462 Wally Rd., Glenmont, OH 44628
Head to the scenic Mohican Wilderness campground for a weekend of live music and fun activities for the whole family September 15-17. The 31st Annual Mohican Bluegrass Festival features three days of live music spread across multiple stages, tons of great food from local vendors, and fun crafts from local artisans. Reserve a campsite in advance, and turn the festival into a weekend-long family vacation.
Historic Main Street, Waynesville, OH 45068
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The annual Ohio Sauerkraut Festival is always one of the biggest events of the year in Waynesville, and this year's event will be no exception. The festival takes place on October 8-9, 2022, with booths, vendors, food, drink, and activities all along Historic Main Street in Waynesville. You can try sauerkraut prepared in nearly every way imaginable, including the famous sauerkraut pizza, which tastes much better than it sounds. In addition to providing fun activities for the community, this event serves as a major fundraiser for local non-profit organizations. It even raises money for scholarships given to local graduating high school seniors.
10542 OH-73, Waynesville, OH 45068
Take thyself back to another era when you visit the Ohio Renaissance Festival, which will be open every weekend from September 3 through October 30, 2022. Experience a real-life recreation of a renaissance-era, 16th-century village filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors you've read about in the history books. The village will be filled with unique shops, live shows, fun activities for kids, delicious food, and games for all ages. There will be themed weekends throughout the event, like Fantasy Weekend, Pirates Weekend, Romance Weekend, and Tricks or Treats Weekend, so check the schedule to find the perfect weekend to visit the Ohio Renaissance Festival.
1241 Main St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
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Coffee lovers from around Ohio and beyond will meet up for the annual Cincinnati Coffee Festival on October 22-23, 2022. It's the largest coffee festival in the Midwest, with roasters, coffee shops, bakers, and chocolatiers coming together to create a weekend that your taste buds definitely won't want to miss. The event features delicious samples, live entertainment, coffee art, demos related to all things coffee, fun competitions, and plenty of surprises along the way. And this festival isn't just about coffee! Tea and chocolate lovers will also find plenty to enjoy at the Cincinnati Coffee Festival.
No matter which corner of Ohio you call home, there are fun festivals to be enjoyed all year long. So, which festival will you fall in love with this year?

Fall has arrived, which means it's time for pumpkins, apples, and corn mazes. Getting lost in a corn maze can make for some great fall fun. Wondering whether you've turned the right way, feeling like you're going in circles, singing songs about the corn — it's all a part of the process. There are lots of great corn mazes in Ohio. Here are some of the mazes most worth visiting as the autumn leaves start to fall.
Derthick's Corn Maze is open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through October 31, 2021. There are actually two mazes on-site. One is a bit shorter, and one is a bit longer. You can work your way through one or both, using clues found along the way to guide you.
In addition to a corn maze, this farm offers other fun activities like sunflower picking, a cow train, a petting zoo, and a zip line. There are often food trucks on-site so you can enjoy snacks or a tasty drink.
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If you're in the Northeast Ohio area, this is definitely one of the top corn mazes to visit. In 2018, it was voted the Best Corn Maze in the Nation by USA Today. Each year, the maze has a different theme. For 2021, the theme is Snow White.
Maze Craze will be open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31. There are a few special events throughout the season, including a Wine and Cider Adventure on October 7 and 14th. In addition to the corn maze, Maze Craze offers a hayride, corn hole games, a straw maze for little ones, and a tractor playground.
Regal Vineyards is primarily a winery, but each year, they also organize a top-notch corn maze. The maze stretches over 8 acres and is open Saturdays and Sundays through October 31. On Friday and Saturday nights from 7 - 10 pm, the corn maze becomes haunted for an even more intense experience!
In addition to the corn maze, Regal Vineyards offers lots of other fun family activities like duck races, hayrides, pumpkin bowling, and a jumping pillow. Concessions are available on-site, and there's a gift shop where you can buy various farm souvenirs.
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Lynd Fruit Farm offers one of the biggest corn mazes near Columbus. The theme this year is the 7 Seas. As you navigate the maze, you can pretend you are a pirate sailing on waves of corn and fighting off sea monsters. The maze is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the maze.
After navigating the maze, you can play Giant Jenga, take a wagon ride, or pick some apples. There's also a climbing wall for kids.
The Maize at Little Darby Creek is entering its 20th year, and it's shaping up to be a nice one. This year's 8-acre corn maze design honors Jack Nicklaus, an internationally renowned golfer from Ohio. It will be open to visitors Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays through October 31st.
Along with the price of admission, you also get to enjoy a petting zoo, laser tag, a low ropes course, pumpkin tic-tac-toe, and tetherball, along with other family-friendly activities.
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If you're looking for a quieter experience, then Hendren Farm Market is a great place to visit. They have an 8-acre corn maze behind the farm market. There are clues hidden throughout the maze to help you solve a mystery as you find your way through.
After going through the maze, you can shop for farm-grown goodies in the market. Along with pumpkins, apples, and other fall produce, you'll find cinnamon rolls, honey, syrup, and beef jerky.
Tom's Maze is open Thursday-Sunday through October 30. This is their 24th year of running the maze, and it's shaping up to be a good one. The maze stretches over 8 acres of cornfields. There are 12 different puzzles to solve along the way, each of which is found inside a colorful mailbox.
In addition to the typical corn maze experience, Tom's Maze offers private campfire packages. You can pay ahead to rent a campfire site for you and your family to enjoy. This can be a fun way to spend more time together after playing in the corn maze.
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Burwinkle Farms has been a staple in the Cincinnati area for 100 years. They operate several farm properties in the area, growing everything from strawberries to apples. In the fall, they transform their Ross farm into a Fall Extravaganza. The corn maze is a key attraction, but there is also a corn pool, haunted hayrides, and a Halloween scavenger hunt. There are lots of fun fall scenes where you can snap memorable photos of yourself and your family.
Burwinkle Farms also has a farm stand on-site. You can purchase sweet corn, melons, potatoes, and other locally grown goods to cook at home.
If you have kids, then Brown's Family Farm Market is a great place to enjoy a corn maze. The atmosphere is very relaxed, and you can go through the maze at your own pace. In addition to the maze, there's a miniature town where the kids can play. There's also a smaller straw maze that makes for a shorter maze experience.
The farm stand also sells pumpkins and Amish fry pies, which are a delicious fall treat. There's also a picnic area that you can reserve ahead of time if desired. You could go through the maze and then enjoy a picnic lunch together.
Which one of these corn mazes will you get lost in this fall? Let us know when you find your way out.

Sweater weather is here, and that means it's time to enjoy all the fun fall-themed activities that come along with it. There are many fun things to do in Northeast Ohio this time of year, and heading out to an orchard to pick your own apples is one of the best.
Not only will you be able to enjoy your delicious haul of apples for weeks, but many local apple orchards also host fall festivals and other fun events. Here's a round-up of some of our favorite local spots to go apple picking.
11724 Lisbon St. SE, Paris, OH 44669
A visit to Arrowhead Orchard is always a good time! You can enjoy a hayride through the farm with special stops so you can hop off and pick your own apples. They also have a pumpkin patch, a stunning you-cut sunflower field, and fresh-pressed apple cider.
Bring the kids — they'll love the two-acre corn maze. There's also a huge outdoor play area with a children's zip-line, a pedal car track, lots of slides, a corn pit, an obstacle course, and more! You can also try your hand at the apple cannons, where you can take aim and shoot at your favorite targets.
Arrowhead Orchard is open Friday through Monday until October 25th. Admission ranges from $5 to $10, and they also offer free parking.
11414 Caves Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026
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Patterson Fruit Farm offers something for everyone. They provide wagon rides through the orchard and have a wide variety of apples available. If you can, plan to visit during their Family Fun Fest, which runs through October 31st.
During the festival, they'll have tons of things for kids to do, including a 50-foot racing slide, a corn maze, pedal tractors, tire swings, push carts, and more. They'll also have face painting and pumpkin painting, pony rides, and horse-drawn wagon rides on designated days.
Patterson Fruit Farm is open Monday through Thursday from 10 am to 6 pm with a $6 per person admission cost, and Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm with a $10 per person admission cost. Kids under 2 are free, and seniors are $6 every day.
2397 Center Rd., Hinckley, OH 44233
If you want a great selection of tasty treats to enjoy at home, you'll definitely want to pay a visit to Hillside Orchard. Not only can you pick delicious, juicy apples right off the tree, but you can also visit their farm market for fresh-baked bread and bagels, jams, jellies, preserves, special canned items like marinades and sauces, locally famous fruit pies, and more!
Many of the items you'll find here are from the nearby Amish community. You also won't want to miss out on their almost-famous frozen apple cider. They sell it by both the gallon and half-gallon.
Apple picking will be available for four weeks beginning October 6th. The orchard is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and Sundays from 12 pm to 5 pm. In October, they're open on Mondays as well.
50336 Telegraph Rd., Amherst, OH 44001
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You'll find a nice selection of pick-your-own apple varieties at Hillcrest Orchards. Through October, you can also visit their pumpkin patch to pick your own pumpkin. In addition, the orchard hosts lots of fun fall activities like a corn maze, hayrides, pedal karts, a playground and swing set, and more.
U-pick is available through October 23rd on weekends only from 10 am to 6 pm. The admission cost to visit the farm is $12 per person. Kids 3 and under and seniors 73 and older get in for free.
10680 N. Johnson Rd., North Benton, OH 44449
Through October, you can visit Stahl's Farm Market to pick your own apples. They'll give you a container to use, and you can either drive or walk out to the orchard. This is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and take in the sights of the country. During October, you can pick your own pumpkins there too.
When you're done with your apple picking, don't forget to visit the store, where you can buy non-pasteurized cider, assorted jams and jellies, fresh-baked bread, and more. They're open 7 days a week from 10 am to 6 pm.
161 Rittman Ave., Rittman, OH 44270
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You'll love the easy-to-reach dwarf apple trees at Bauman Orchards! Even better, they constantly have fun and interesting events happening onsite. If you can, plan to visit them for their final Fall Festival date on October 2nd from 8 am to 5 pm.
During the festival, you'll be able to pick your own apples and enjoy both apple cider and cider donuts that are made fresh while you watch. There will also be a food truck, live music, pony rides, and a chance to visit with their farm animals.
8690 Vermilion Rd., Amherst, OH 44001
If you want to take a step back in time, pay a visit to Miller Orchards. This family-owned farm has been around since the mid-1800s! They have a huge variety of u-pick apples available throughout the season. They also carry many other items like local maple syrup, local raw honey, squash, pumpkins, and more.
Miller Orchards is open from 9 am to 6 pm Monday through Saturday and is closed on Sundays.
6984 Lafayette Rd., Medina, OH 44256
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There's plenty to explore at Richardson Farms! They have a variety of pick-your-own apples available and a pumpkin patch where you can pick your own pumpkin. You can also stock up your kitchen at their farm stand, where you'll find a nice selection of fresh-grown vegetables, herbs, and fruit.
A farm isn't a farm without animals! They welcome visitors to spend some time with their cows, pigs, chickens, and turkeys. You can also take a hayride around the farm. The hours here vary, so you'll want to give them a call at 330-722-4029 before you head out.
Now that you have all the in-cider information, which of these awesome apple orchards will you visit first?