Well, this was unexpected! I wasn’t looking for love, especially not in Cincinnati, but sometimes the best relationships happen when you least expect them. The curves, the chemistry, the unexpected thrills, and OMG, the way I was treated! Let’s just say the 513 did things to me that Toledo hasn’t in YEARS! And now? I can’t stop thinking about going back. But I’m getting ahead of myself. Let me start at the beginning, because this love affair deserves a proper introduction.
It was Friday, around 5:30 PM, when my youngest, two of her BFFs, my oldest, and yours truly hit I-75 for a much-anticipated girls’ getaway. Five Northwest Ohio girls craving a little adventure, gorgeous fall colors, and some actual HILLS! Listen, when you’re from Toledo, a decent incline is enough to get your heart racing. First stop, Starbucks in Bowling Green, because nothing says road trip quite like overpriced caffeine and five women with very specific drink orders. Next, a stop near Austin Landing to stretch our legs, make a much-needed bathroom run, and keep the excitement going. With every mile south, the anticipation grew. Was Cincinnati really going to live up to the hype?
By the time we pulled into Fairfield Inn & Suites Cincinnati Eastgate, we were ready to get comfortable. And Cincinnati wasted NO time making a good first impression! Friendly service, cozy accommodations, and everything we needed for our little escape. Naturally, we celebrated our arrival with a romantic evening at Walmart. 😂 Yup! Nothing screams girls’ getaway like wandering the aisles in search of snacks, chocolate, and whatever else five females convince themselves they absolutely NEED at bedtime. We settled in, got comfortable, and dreamed about what Saturday had in store.
Saturday morning, we needed a little pick-me-up, and Dutch Bros Coffee understood the assignment! Caffeine, energy, and just enough excitement to make us feel like we could conquer the world. And then, baby, Cincinnati REALLY started showing off! Our first major destination was the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, and HOLY WOW!!! I have visited plenty of zoos, but this one? There’s something downright seductive about the way it’s laid out. The gorgeous botanical foliage creates this sense of mystery. You can’t see what’s lurking around the next corner, and that anticipation makes the entire experience feel magical. Every twist, every turn, another breathtaking surprise. Cincinnati, you mysterious little tease! 😘
And Toledo Zoo members, here’s a little insider tip: your membership may qualify you for 50% off regular admission through the reciprocal zoo program! Check the details before visiting, but seriously, it’s worth the drive. We also experienced the seasonal Jack O’Lantern Glow, which requires a separate ticket, and OMG!!! The glowing pumpkins, the enchanting atmosphere, the fall colors… I was absolutely SMITTEN! So much so that we’re already planning another rendezvous for the zoo’s winter Festival of Lights. Apparently, I’m ready for commitment. Who knew?!
Sunday morning arrived WAY too quickly. But before saying goodbye to our lovely hotel, can we appreciate the little things? A POOL! FREE BREAKFAST! Extra pillows, blankets, towels, and accommodations that made us feel like royalty! Parents, especially those of us funding these adventures on one income, you KNOW how sexy complimentary breakfast can be! 😂 Checkout was bittersweet, but little did I know, Cincinnati still had a few tricks up its sleeve.
Next up, AMC Anderson Towne Center 9 on Beechmont Avenue! The girls had been begging to see Other Mommy for months, and after reading the reviews, I wasn’t exactly thrilled about spending my hard-earned money. But WOW, was I pleasantly surprised! In fact, I loved it so much I wrote an entire review about why everyone might have missed the point. And can we PLEASE talk about those reclining seats?! Toledo, what are we doing?! A cozy recliner, popcorn, chocolate, and sparkling water? Cincinnati had me sitting back, relaxing, and enjoying every second. And yes, I’m still talking about the movie theater. Get your minds out of the gutter! 🤭
Just when I thought things couldn’t get any better, Cincinnati introduced us to Jungle Jim’s International Market. BABY!!! Talk about taking a girl around the world! We wandered through aisles representing countries and cultures from across the globe, discovering foods, flavors, and treats we never knew existed. It was like an international vacation without the passports, airport security, or outrageous airfare. Five curious females exploring, laughing, and occasionally asking, “Wait, people actually EAT that?!” We could have spent HOURS there!
And then came the moment that sealed the deal. Graeter’s Ice Cream on Beechmont Avenue. Now listen, this momma NEVER orders a milkshake. EVER! But something about that pumpkin spice shake was calling my name, and thank GOD I answered! One sip and I was transported straight back to childhood. No bills, no responsibilities, no juggling multiple jobs, grad school, and motherhood. Just pure, carefree happiness. The sweetness, the spice, that warm, comforting feeling… like being wrapped in the arms of someone who knows exactly what you need. DAMN, Cincinnati! I wasn’t prepared to catch feelings over a milkshake! 😂❤️
Unfortunately, time was running out, and there were SO many more places I wanted to explore. But isn’t that how the best relationships work? They leave you wanting more! Before heading back north, I grabbed some local coffee, Frisch’s, and Skyline Chili to bring a little taste of my new love home with us. Because apparently, I’m now the kind of woman who brings home souvenirs from a scandalous weekend affair.
But WAIT! The adventure wasn’t quite over! On our way back to Toledo, we made one final pit stop at Wawa in Wapakoneta, Ohio, and HOLY GAS STATION, BATMAN!!! 😂
Who knew a gas station could offer reasonably priced fuel, CLEAN restrooms (parents, you KNOW this is a big deal!), AND food that was surprisingly AMAZING?! I’m talking legit good food! Not the questionable roller hot dogs that have been spinning since 1997. Wawa, where have you been all my life?! And it got me thinking… are more Americans hitting the road and demanding better options along the way, or are we becoming a society that craves the convenience of grabbing a decent meal without the whole sit-down restaurant experience? Either way, somebody clearly understood the assignment! Things that make you go HMMMM… 🤔
Cincinnati, you’ve got the curves, the charm, the gorgeous hills, the breathtaking fall colors, and some wonderful people. But what really got me? For one glorious weekend, you made this exhausted, overworked, single mom feel like a carefree girl again. No schedules, no deadlines, no fires to put out. Just laughter, adventure, my girls, and the excitement of discovering something new. And THAT, my friends, is the kind of love worth chasing.
And here’s the BEST part! This entire little love affair happened right here in our awesome state of OHIO! No expensive flights, no passports, no complicated travel arrangements. Just a tank of gas, some fabulous company, and a willingness to explore. And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, Kentucky is practically begging to join the relationship! Our next trip already has a little cross-state action planned, with a stop in Newport, Kentucky for some pizza and a visit to the Newport Aquarium. Because apparently, one state just isn’t enough for this girl anymore! 😂
So, Toledo, don’t take this personally, but I think we might need to start seeing other cities. 🤭❤️ Cincinnati, I’m not saying we’re exclusive, but you’ve definitely earned a special place in my heart. Save me a spot, sweetheart, because this girl is already planning her next date with the 513!
Now I NEED to hear from YOU! Have you ever been to Cincinnati, and if so, what’s the ONE place we absolutely HAVE to visit next time? Have you experienced Wawa, and are we seriously living in an era where GAS STATIONS are becoming food destinations?! And for my fellow Ohioans, what’s your favorite hidden gem right here in the Buckeye State? I’m talking restaurants, quirky roadside attractions, breathtaking views, unexpected adventures, ALL OF IT! Drop your recommendations in the comments, tag your favorite road-trip partner, and SHARE this with someone who’s overdue for a little getaway. Because this love affair is FAR from over, and I’m already planning round two! 🔥😘
