Looking for something fun and unique to do with the whole family? Safari Junction in Eaton is the home of Valley Exotics Zoo, where you'll have the best animal encounters in Ohio. From camels and kangaroos to exotic birds and lemurs, you never know what sort of animals you’ll encounter at this unique Ohio attraction! The next time you want to take the family to see some animals, head to Safari Junction.
Welcome to Safari Junction, a 10-acre, family-owned animal park where you'll meet animals from all around the world.
For more than 20 years, the Beneke family has been taking care of animals and educating the public about their unique habitats, different needs, and natural behaviors.
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At Safari Junction's Valley Exotics Zoo, guests have the opportunity to come face-to-face with kangaroos, camels, foxes, lemurs and other furry friends! You'll get a rare up-close and hands-on experience that larger zoos simply aren't able to offer.
For more information about what kinds of animals you'll meet at Safari Junction, click here.
The park is open seasonally only, and you can learn more about its hours at the Safari Junction website.
As an added bonus, personal encounters and cuddling sessions can be scheduled, too!
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You can also set up a private appointment to visit the animals at Valley Exotics Zoo. For more information, call Safari Junction at (937) 545-5175.
The park also features a picnic and play area in case you need to stop and take a break from your adventures.
To stay up-to-date on what's happening at Safari Junction, be sure to follow their Facebook page!
For the best animal encounters in Ohio, you have to check out Safari Junction. What animal would you be most excited to see at this unique zoo in Ohio? Have you ever been to Safari Junction's Valley Exotics Zoo before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like -- share your thoughts in the comments below!
Ohio isn't exactly tropical, but that doesn't mean there aren't ways to feel as though you've landed in the middle of paradise. Head to Cincinnati and hop aboard an SS Tiki Tours cruise for a tropical-themed adventure that will positively delight you. With scenic views and enough fun to go around, you'll be glad you opted for a private cruise on this Hawaiian-themed party boat.
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All aboard! SS Tiki Tours offers private cruises along the majestic Ohio River and it's truly fun for all ages.
Whether you're looking for a peaceful sunset excursion or a party boat with an "it's 5-o-clock somewhere" mentality, these cruises can be customized to your exact specifications.
Each trip will be operated by a USCG-certified captain, so your group can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery!
Sightseeing cruises are 2.5 hours and the boats can accommodate up to 18 passengers. These cruises are terrific ways to celebrate a special event or to create a night to remember. Firework cruises are also available but these are limited in availability.
The cruises are BYOB, so you can bring along your favorite alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages with you. The same goes for any food you'd like aboard.
Passengers should note that ice is not provided on the cruises.
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Each boat includes a Bluetooth sound system so you can enjoy your favorite tunes as you cruise along the Ohio River.
The boats are also equipped with a bathroom.
So the next time you're in the mood for a tropical adventure without having to hop on a plane, you'll be glad you signed up for a private cruise with SS Tiki Tours.
Have you ever cruised the Ohio River with SS Tiki Tours? What was your experience like? Be sure to tell us all about it in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!
For more information and to book your upcoming cruise, visit the SS Tiki Tours website and the SS Tiki Tours Facebook page. And don't forget to check out some of our favorite summertime travel gear for all of your sunny-weather adventures.
The nostalgia good old-fashioned train rides in Ohio can bring is truly special. Scenic train rides in Ohio can bring us back to a time when we took the time to watch what was outside our window and simply enjoy the journey. If you’re looking to remember what it’s like to enjoy the journey and tour Ohio in a unique way—or you just want to give the family a special dinner experience they’ll never forget—then traveling Ohio’s scenic railways is the perfect way to do just that. The following are train rides in Ohio that will give you an unforgettable experience.
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1. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (Peninsula)
Enjoy cocktails on the rails, brunch, or a murder mystery dinner via the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and its special events. You can also take one of the most scenic Ohio train rides, as the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a journey through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park on select days throughout the year. For more information, check out the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad website.
2. The Polar Express and Santa Claus Express (via the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad)
During the holiday season, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad features yuletide-themed train rides. Be on the lookout for reindeer in the scenic valley while you sip hot chocolate and eat Christmas cookies. Plan months ahead for this ride, as tickets are limited and go fast. For more information, check out the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad website.
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3. Hocking Valley Scenic Railway (Nelsonville)
Looking for "train rides near me?" Operating train rides through the Hocking River Valley between East Logan and Nelsonville, this scenic railway features several holiday and seasonal events as well. Trains also operate every Saturday and Sunday on a seasonal basis. For more information, visit the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway website.
4. Cincinnati Dinner Train (Cincinnati)
All dinners served on this train include a side of scenery aboard three beautifully restored 1950s-era dining cars. The public dinner train operates on select nights throughout the year and features a three-hour train ride and a four-course meal. The train also features two private luxury dining cars and special events throughout the year. For tickets, departure times, and other information, visit the Cincinnati Dinner Train website.
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5. Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad (Lebanon)
The LM&M Railroad features scenic train rides through southwestern Ohio in Warren County, departing from historic downtown Lebanon. The train runs on most weekends throughout the year and on select weekdays. For more information, head on over to the Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad website.
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6. Orrville Railroad Heritage Society (Orrville)
The Orrville Railroad Heritage Society features several train ride excursions and events open to the general public such as Spring Circle Trips, National Train Day, Orrville Railroad Day, Fall Foliage Trips, and more. To learn more about when the train will run this year, check out the Orrville Railroad Heritage Society website.
7. Ohio Railway Museum (Worthington)
This railroad, train station, and museum features an impressive collection of more than 30 pieces. Seasonally, the museum offers round-trip demonstration rides on some of the streetcars and interurbans. The museum also features several holiday and seasonal rides, such as the popular Ghost Trolley. For more information, check out the Ohio Railway Museum website.
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8. Lorain and West Virginia Railway (Wellington)
The Lorain and West Virginia Railway features a slew of themed rides. In the past, the railway has hosted a two-hour tour of the Age of Steam Roundhouse in Sugarcreek, Wine on Rails, Lorain County Fair train rides, a Murder Mystery Train, and other events. To learn more about what this railway will offer this season, head on over to the Lorain and West Virginia Railway website.
What do you think of these train rides in Ohio? Have you ever enjoyed any of these scenic train rides in Ohio? Know of any other scenic railroads in Ohio? Whatever it is, tell us!
Scenic train rides in Ohio aren’t the only option for enjoying the state’s stunning landscape. There are quite a few others, including the most beautiful hikes in Ohio. And for more local adventures, be sure to check out Airbnb experiences!