This Ohio Village is perfect for a day trip or long weekend
By Bridget Ridder
Looking for somewhere to spend your Saturday? Check out the eclectic village of Yellow Springs. Just an hour drive from Cincinnati, this artsy, hippy downtown offers something for everyone.
Start the day off with a cup of coffee and breakfast from Emporium Wines & The Underdog Café in the heart of downtown. The café serves coffee, tea, breakfast burritos, granola and even vegan biscuits and gravy. The café is also lined with bookshelves and local art, allowing you to enjoy the town’s atmosphere while you start your day.
Take a hike on the Little Miami Scenic Trail. This trail spans over 78 miles from Cincinnati to Springfield and runs right through Yellow Springs. Some activities include biking, skating, fishing, horseback riding and cross-country skiing. You also will find historical sites, natural habitats and state parks along the trail.
Additional spots to walk in this area include John Bryan State Park and nature preserves like Glen Helen and Clifton Gorge.
After a morning hike, spend time in the downtown area where you will find shops, boutiques, arts and crafts and other neat finds. This main strip is about a quarter mile long and is a short and easy walk. Highlights include Urban Handmade, which sells handcrafted items from independent makers, including clothing, accessories and art, and Village Artisans, a gallery that holds exhibitions of featured works of art including ceramics, photography and sculptures.
When hunger hits, you can grab a bite at The Greene Canteen. The dishes include healthy and delicious meals like sandwiches, salads and smoothies. “The No. 1 seller would be between the black bean sweet potato burger and the spicy chicken sandwich,” says Jamie Hall, the assistant manager of the café.
After dinner, head to Yellow Springs Brewery, tucked away a little outside of the main drag. The brewery serves locally brewed craft beer and snacks, and often hosts food trucks.
Another breakfast and lunch option is the restaurant at the Historic Clifton Mill, where home-cooked style dishes include sandwiches, pies and cookies. After you’ve eaten, check out the old wooden mill wheel, which is one of the largest water-powered mills still in existence.
At Ye Olde Trail Tavern, guests can sit outdoors at this German tavern and enjoy some bier cheese and pretzels. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
A local favorite for an after-dinner treat is Young’s Jersey Dairy. It’s known for its homemade ice cream. But Young’s Jersey Dairy is much more than just a farm and creamery. A whole day can be spent here as it includes mini golf, a petting zoo, batting cages and many events that happen throughout the year in all seasons.
