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Whether you're looking for a great place to take your love interest on a romantic date or you simply love good Italian food, there are some really great options for you to explore in the Columbiana area. Some of the best Italian food Columbiana has to offer can be found at popular, big-name restaurants, while other great options are a bit more off the beaten path. No matter what kind of venue you're interested in, one thing's for sure; you'll always get a great Italian meal at these Columbiana restaurants. Belleria Pizza & Italian Restaurant Bellaria Pizza and Italian Restaurant definitely falls under the "off the beaten path" category, but once you get past the unassuming appearance of the venue's exterior, you're going to be in for quite a treat. Bellaria features original, authentic Italian recipes that were crafted by Lena Bell more than 60 years ago. The food is so good here that the recipes used at Bellaria haven't changed one bit since they opened their doors in 1957. more Salvatore's Italian Grille Salvatore's Italian Grille is a high-end fine dining venue that offers amazing hand-crafted and authentic Italian dishes unlike those you'll find anywhere else. This family owned and operated restaurant places a lot of value on creating quality food and an atmosphere that draws you in and makes you want more every time you visit. Their extensive wine list is compiled to have just the right bottle to pair perfectly with your chosen dish, so don't be afraid to ask your server for recommendations. Ezio's Italian Restaurant & Catering Ezio's Italian Restaurant and Catering is another popular family-owned venue that many people in the area just can't get enough of. Their food is so good, they consistently receive four and five-star ratings on Yelp and Facebook. Of particular note, most of the people that frequent Ezio's can't stop complimenting their delicious dessert menu. If you've never had an authentic Italian dessert, such as a cannoli, you have to try Ezio's. Many people claim that they serve the best cannoli in town, so don't miss out. Aqua Pazzo Aqua Pazzo is all about presentation and ambiance. This is probably one of the nicest Italian restaurants you'll ever eat at. Of course, image isn't all they're interested in here. Aqua Pazzo has what can easily be considered one of the most attractive menus in the Columbiana area. Each dish is carefully crafted to delight all of your senses, and there's nothing here you aren't going to love. Their wine menu is just as impressive as the food and you're going to have no problem finding the perfect glass to accompany your meal. Aqua Pazzo is the ideal choice if you're trying to impress somebody on a date. There are far too many amazing Italian dining venues to discuss here, and you'll be hard-pressed to find something you don't love just by looking around. The restaurants here are a great starting point, though, so head out and try one or two of them for yourself. Photo by Klausiee | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

If you're in the market for a new automobile, you should consider driving one of the fantastic models from Jeep. Whatever your driving needs, there is a Jeep model that will fit you like a glove. There are even several outstanding limited edition Jeep models that come equipped with advanced features that you may not be able to find in other vehicles. Learn about a few of the limited editions Jeeps that you could drive and take a look at the features that make them stand out from other vehicles in their class. Grand Cherokee Limited Editions When it comes to full-size SUVs, there's simply no beating the Grand Cherokee, and this popular Jeep vehicle is available in several exciting limited editions. Pick the Grand Cherokee Upland, for instance, and you'll be driving one of the most stylish SUVs on the road. The can't miss features of this Jeep model include interior blue accent stitching, gloss black finishes, and black tow hooks. There are also comfort features like heated seats. more The High Altitude is another limited edition Grand Cherokee that's loaded with outstanding features. The dual-pane panoramic sunroof will let you enjoy a little fresh air while you drive, while the leather-trimmed seats and sharp twenty-inch wheels will keep you riding in style. Wrangler JK Limited Editions If you're looking for an SUV that's ready for every challenge imaginable, look no further than the Wrangler JK. Known for its unstoppable performance, the Wrangler JK provides an excellent ride that you're sure to love, particularly if you choose one of the limited edition models of this Jeep. If you want to boost the durability of this already tough SUV, you can choose the Rubicon Recon. This Wrangler JK model includes several features designed for toughness, including mud-terrain tires and a Dana 44 front axle inspired by the military. The front and rear steel bumpers of this vehicle are winch capable. Drivers that want the power of the Wrangler JK in a more stylish package can select the Altitude model. The exterior of this Jeep has been designed to be as attractive as possible, and includes eye-catching features such as a power bulge hood, eighteen-inch polished black wheels, and black exterior accents. For your comfort, the inside of this limited edition Wrangler includes leather-trimmed seating with heating functionality. Jeep Compass Limited Edition Finding a vehicle that's perfect for driving in both the city and the country is easy when you invest in the Jeep Compass. This stylish SUV provides a variety of great features and is also available in an enticing limited edition model. The limited edition Compass Altitude is focused on world-class styling and provides several design cues that you may find irresistible. In addition to black aluminum wheels, the Compass Altitude offers a single exhaust, with dual bright tips, a black roof, and black rear fascia insert. On the inside, you can find black stitching on the steering wheel door armrests and center console. Photo by nemandzax | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

If you're in the Columbiana area and looking to spend some time outdoors, you're in luck, because you can visit one of the many gorgeous parks in this Ohio city. Whether you want to plan an afternoon picnic, or are interested in something a little more exciting, Columbiana area parks have everything you could want or need. Here are a few of the top parks near Columbiana you should be sure to check out if you want to spend a day reconnecting with nature. Firestone Park While there are several parks in and around Columbiana you should consider visiting, one of the best is Firestone Park. For most people, the best reason to visit the park is being able to take a dip in the pool, which also includes a large water slide that your children will be sure to love. There are even public swim lessons that you can take to make sure you're able to enjoy the water safely. more Firestone Park is also a great location to host an event. There are multiple pavilions that can be rented for an affordable price, meaning you can easily plan a family reunion, wedding reception, birthday party. Beaver Creek State Park When you visit a park near Columbiana, you want to be sure you're choosing a location that will let you spend hours enjoying nature and having a great time, which is exactly what you'll get when you take a trip to Beaver Creek State Park. Considered one of the most scenic locations in all of Ohio, Beaver Creek State Park is sure to have something you will enjoy. This park is pet-friendly, so you can bring along your dog for a long hike in the woods. If you're a fishing enthusiast, the park offers some truly amazing stream fishing where you'll be able to catch rock bass and smallmouth bass. Beaver Creek State Park is also a great place for a canoe ride. Hellbender Bluff Park There are several parks in the Columbiana area that are perfect for biking, including Hellbender Bluff Park. This 750-acre park offers breathtaking natural beauty and is one of the best places in this part of Ohio for a relaxing bike ride. Another reason to visit this park is being able to see the Hellbender Salamander, an endangered species for which the park is named. Usually, you can see this type of salamander near the streams in the park. Hellbender Bluff Park is also a public hunting area. The bike trail at this park is 3.4 miles, meaning you can go for a quick, fun ride whenever you wish.   In Columbiana, there are a great many ways that you could spend your free time, but if your preferred activity is enjoying nature, then you should be sure to visit one of the many excellent parks in this area. Whether you visit a city or state park, you're guaranteed to have a great time biking, fishing, camping, or just going for a walk and taking in the scenery. Photo by Adirondack Watershed Institute | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has long been one of the best SUVs on the road, and the 2018 model is one of the best ever. Interested in the new Grand Cherokee? You'll want to be sure that you're getting the features and performance that work for you. Maybe you're the type of driver that wants unbeatable performance, or perhaps you're looking for an automobile that's loaded with country features. Whatever features that you want, there's a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee model that fits you. Laredo The starting trim level of the Grand Cherokee is known as the Laredo, and this model is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower. Although the Laredo is the base trim, it includes a variety of features that would feel at home on a luxury model. For example, on the exterior of the Laredo, you'll find heated mirrors and 17-inch wheels. more Limited If you're a driver that wants a few more creature comforts, you can bump up to the Limited trim. This trim level includes heated seats you'll be glad you have on those cold mornings that are so common in Ohio. With this trim, you'll also have the option of upgrading your engine to a 5.7-liter V8 that produces 360 horsepower. Trailhawk Most people want to drive the Grand Cherokee because of its off-road ability, and if this is your main priority, you should pick the Trailhawk trim. This trim level was designed with off-road driving in mind and includes an assortment of tough features such as a Quadra-Drive II four-wheel drive system, off-road tires, and an adjustable air suspension. This model also includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen display that is equipped with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Overland With the Overland trim level, you'll have access to an array of luxury features that will improve your overall driving experience. This trim includes an easy-to-use navigation system, as well as a nine-speaker stereo that provides excellent music. Other Overland features include a panoramic sunroof, LED daytime running lights, and leather upholstery. Summit For consumers that want their 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee loaded with the most features possible, the best model to drive is the Summit. Inside and out, the Summit trim provides fantastic features that you're sure to love; a Harmon Kardon audio system with nineteen speakers and active safety features such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, and automatic braking. SRT and Trackhawk With the Grand Cherokee, you'll have access to two models focused on power: The SRT and the Trackhawk. The SRT offers a 6.4-liter V8 engine producing 475 horsepower and features such as sport-tuned suspension and steering, a unique all-wheel-drive system, and twenty-inch wheels. The Trackhawk trim features a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 that is rated at 707 horsepower and 645. Some of its features include Brembo brakes and an eight-speed automatic transmission.   Whichever 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee model you choose, you will be guaranteed to have a dependable and exciting SUV that you'll love driving day in and day out. Photo by AlBargan | Licensed under cc BY-ND 2.0

When it comes to desserts, everyone has their favorites. From lemon meringue pie to ice cream to fudge, desserts create a sensation unlike any other: relaxation, satisfaction, and overindulgence. Although few will agree on the absolute ultimate dessert, you can still get your fix in and around Columbiana, Ohio. Here are some of the best places to find a sugary masterpiece. Annabell's Restaurant Located 20 minutes west of Columbiana, Annabell's Restaurant in Salem is the place to go when you want quality food at an affordable price. With everything from steaks and seafood to soup and salad on the menu, Annabell's is popular for both lunch and more dinner. However, you shouldn't leave without checking out the dessert menu. Turtle ice cream pie is the specialty here, loaded with caramel, chocolate, whipped topping, pecans, and ice cream on top of a chocolate crumb crust. If you're not feeling the turtle, Annabell's also has a rotating menu of delicious pies and cakes, as well as seasonal items such as the mint ice cream brownie delight. After seeing these desserts, you might just want to skip the meal altogether. Rita's Italian Ice Fifteen minutes north of Columbiana, you're in for a real treat. That's where you'll find Rita's Italian Ice. This establishment has a seemingly endless amount of desserts including their famous Italian ice and award-winning frozen custard. If you can't choose between the two, go with the cream ice, Blendini, or Misto shake, which each combine the two into a sweet beverage that's perfect with a spoon or a straw. On a hot summer's day, you won't get any better than this. The Bistro Officially called The Bistro at Mahoning County Career and Technical Center, The Bistro as it's known by locals is a surprising addition to the best desserts near Columbiana. What makes this a special dining and dessert experience is that all the food is entirely prepared by adult students looking to fine-tune their culinary craft. Open from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., you can get an affordable meal for steep discounts while also trying cakes, pies, pastries, and other desserts crafted by the students. The dessert changes daily, but sometimes it's the surprise that makes it all worthwhile. One Hot Cookie There's nothing like a freshly baked cookie straight out of the oven. With an appetizing mix of textures and tastes, cookies are the baked goods that are so good, you can't just stop with one. At One Hot Cookie in Youngstown, you can sample some cookie favorites such as sugar or chocolate, or go all-out with experimental choices like cinnamon toast crunch with bacon. If you want to make the cookies at home or you just love the taste of pre-baked cookies, One Hot Cookie sells dough as well. The icing on the cake (or cookie) is that One Hot Cookie stays open until 2:30 a.m. on Friday and Saturday giving you more than enough time to get your fill. Treating yourself to a dessert is one of the best things you can do to live life to the fullest. After all, what kind of life is worth living if there are no desserts? Photo by Sam Howzit | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

Versatile, sizable, and powerful, the 2018 Dodge Durango is one of the bad boys of the full-size SUV segment. It's tough and rugged enough to tackle the off-road, yet smooth enough to tackle your day-to-day driving. With these excellent qualities, it's no surprise that the tech features of the Durango often go overlooked. However, the Durango's tech-savvy amenities are one of the aspects that make it a strong contender in the 2018 SUV market lineup. Here's a look at all it has to offer this year. Memory Feature If you've ever let your spouse, friend, or child drive your car, you know how annoying it is when you hop back in, only to find that your knees are pressed against the steering wheel or you can't reach the pedals. The 2018 Dodge Durango fixes this problem by offering a memory feature that's good for up to two drivers. more At the push of a button, it recalls your previous steering wheel height, seat position, side mirror position, and even your radio settings. Instead of having to fine-tune everything when you get in the car, the Durango does it for you quickly and pain-free. Dual-Screen Blu-Ray Entertainment System Bickering children is a part of parenthood, but when you can amend the problem with little to no effort, it saves you time and stress. That's just what you'll get with the Durango's dual-screen Blu-Ray entertainment system. With two flip-up, 9-inch screens mounted to the headrests of the front seats, all five passengers can watch a movie or play games in high definition. Dual HDMI ports also allow your passengers to watch separate programs at the same time, avoiding a potentially angry clash between siblings. Even if you don't have children, this entertainment system is perfect for road trips and tailgating. When you're on the open road with friends in the middle of nowhere, sometimes it's nice to unwind with a movie. At sporting events, bring your gaming console to let your friends get excited for the big game. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto If you're like most Americans, the thought of being without your smartphone is tantamount to cruel and unusual punishment. Fortunately, you can stay connected to your electronic friend and organizer with the Durango's Apple CarPlay and Android Auto features. With an easy setup, you can connect your iOS-based or Android device to the Durango's head unit for easy access to navigation, communication, social media, and other apps. Not only does this make it easier to get to your most-used apps, but it also keeps your eyes off your phone and on the road, dramatically increasing your safety. Beats Audio When you want to roll up to the party or social event in style, the available Beats Audio sound system is your greatest ally. Using the latest in aural technology designed by Dr. Dre himself, this system boasts nine speakers and a subwoofer powered by a 506-watt, 120-channel amplifier. From Al Green to ZZ Top, you'll have the party rocking before you even arrive. With entertainment, communication, and convenience covered, the Durango's tech features are some of the best in the industry. Not only does it make driving easier, but your commute or ride just got a bit more fun and manageable. Photo by RL GNZLZ | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Though the Chrysler 300 has only been on the market since 2005, it's already considered a classic for its performance-based drivetrain and powertrain, stellar looks, and sumptuous interior. In 2018, the 300 continues its run of form with a revamped interior that will make you fall in love with the car all over again. Here's a look at the opulent interior specs of the 2018 Chrysler 300. Luxurious Entry-Level Features The 2018 Chrysler 300 comes in five trim levels ranging from entry level to fully loaded. However, even the entry-level Touring trim comes with plenty of standard features, including: New cloth seats 12-volt center console outlet Dual-zone automatic climate control Leather-wrapped steering wheel Power driver's seat Apple CarPlay Android Auto Bluetooth SiriusXM satellite radio Uconnect infotainment system more With all these features in the base model alone, the Chrysler 300 cements itself as the king of American luxury while rivaling the offerings found in many European luxury cars. The best part is that you'll have all of these features even if you're on a budget. Helpful Electronics Added to the 300's interior in 2017, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto return for 2018. A must for the smartphone guru, these two features connect your iOS- or Android-based device to the car's unit for easy access to apps, navigation, and communication. The Uconnect infotainment system handles many of these same functions without plugging in your phone to the head unit. An 8.4-inch touch-screen display allows easy access to entertainment and communication features, even when you're on the go. Seating With its elongated and wide stance, the Chrysler 300 boasts some of the best headroom and legroom in the industry with comfort for up to five passengers. The upper four trims take this comfort to the next level thanks to soft-touch, leather-trimmed seating. The Touring L and 300S both offer this as a standard feature, but the Limited and 300C take it a step further. Rear heated seats ensure that your passengers are always warm no matter what the temperature's like outside. The driver and passenger will also enjoy ventilated seats, which cool your body on hot, humid days. The Little Extras The fully loaded Chrysler 300C is a work of art both inside and outside, but it's the little extras that make it all the more impressive. A heated steering wheel keeps your hands toasty during the winter months, making it easy and more comfortable to drive. However, the nicest, most innovative touch is the heated/cooled cup holders, which keep your beverage at optimal temperatures for a delightful drink experience. Beats Audio Premium Sound If you're an audiophile or music guru, the Beats Audio Premium sound system is a must. Featuring 10 speakers and a subwoofer, this 552-watt audio system blares your favorite songs in crystal-clear quality as loud as you can handle it. Perfect for road trips or setting the tone for a tailgate or party, this sound system is fit enough for Dr. Dre. With an array of tech, comfort, and convenience features, the 2018 Chrysler 300 has luxury-car amenities at a price that won't break the bank. Make sure to get behind the wheel to see what the fuss is all about. Photo by Randy Heinitz | Licensed under cc BY 2.0

So you want to get away for a weekend, but you aren't sure where to go. While the country has plenty of options, perhaps none are as affordable, fun, and exciting as northeast Ohio. While the area often gets overlooked for a vacation, it has plenty to do for all interests. From downtown Cleveland to the beautiful, yet scarily named Mosquito Creek Lake, you're sure to find something that suits you. The next step is figuring out where to stay. Here's a guide to help you find the perfect accommodations. The Ritz-Carlton For an unforgettable urban getaway, book a stay at the Ritz-Carlton in downtown Cleveland. Part of the historic Tower City Center, the hotel is synonymous with luxury, offering 206 guest rooms and suites with views of downtown, Lake Erie, or the Cuyahoga River. Each room has elegant, upscale décor, topped off with a marble bathroom, smart TV, and Nespresso machine. Plush terry robes pamper you while you lounge and a pillow-top mattress give you the sleep of a lifetime. more Other amenities you should take full advantage of include 24-hour room service, an on-site restaurant, a fully stocked bar, and an art gallery on the seventh floor. For a night on the town, the Ritz-Carlton is conveniently located within walking distance of the casino, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and nightlife destinations. Cabins at Mosquito Creek Lake Although its name may keep some travelers away, Mosquito Creek Lake is an outdoorsman's paradise. Featuring nearly 2,500 acres of woodlands and 7,850 acres of water, there's always something to do whether you head out on the lake or stay on dry land. Fishing is the most popular activity here, especially for Flathead catfish, which populate the lake's shallow waters. If you're on a fishing trip, nothing's better than finding a vacation home or cabin right on the shores of the lake. Not only is it an affordable option, but you're just a few steps away from boating, hiking, and other recreational activities. Bed-and-Breakfasts in Geneva-on-the-Lake Located on Lake Erie just an hour east of Cleveland, Geneva-on-the-Lake is a quaint getaway known for its romantic accommodation and scenery. Situated in the heart of Ohio wine country, places such as the Lakehouse Inn and the Lost Pearl Bed and Breakfast give you access to some of the most beautiful wineries in the state. At each of these wineries, you can enjoy the view, sip a glass of pinot grigio, and rekindle the flame. Another option is the Michael Cahill Bed & Breakfast. Nestled on the shores of Lake Erie, this bed-and-breakfast is the only lakeside accommodation in Ohio wine country. Faithfully restored to its original 1887 condition, Cahill is close to many of the area's top attractions. Plus, the breakfast is worth getting up early for, based around locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Whether you're planning on exploring the area or lounging in your hotel room for 48 hours, these northeast Ohio accommodation options will undoubtedly make your visit relaxing. Plus, no one's there to judge if 2 a.m. room service sounds like an excellent idea. Photo by EDrost88 | Licensed under cc by 2.0

There are so many craft beer breweries and bars to check out in the Salem, Ohio, area. Whether you like hoppy India pale ales or rich porters and stouts, you'll find plenty of beers to enjoy at these local breweries and craft beer bars. Numbers Brewing Co. Numbers Brewing Co. has been brewing beer in nearby Lisbon, Ohio, since 2016. Since opening, it has been producing different types of beer and creating new flavors and varieties in the process. You can find everything from light blonde ales to dark stouts. There are also 15 taps in the tasting room that you can choose from, and throughout the year you can try different seasonal beers, too. more Numbers Brewing Co. is open Wednesday and Thursday from 4 to 10 p.m., Friday from 3 p.m. to midnight, and Saturday from 2 p.m. to midnight. Hoppin' Frog Brewery & Tasting Room Hoppin' Frog Brewery has been operating for over 10 years now in the neighboring city of Akron, Ohio. It recently received the accolade of Top 100 Breweries in the World as voted by RateBeer.com. The brewery has 10 beers available all year, which include three types of oatmeal stout, two types of red ale, a coffee stout, an IPA, a coffee porter, a doppelbock lager, and a silk porter. It also has seasonal beers that you'll see throughout the year, like a pumpkin ale during October, a Christmas ale during December, a citrus ale during the summer, and an IPA during the spring. If you want to visit the tasting room, you can visit Monday from 5 to 10 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Thursday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Ricky's English Pub Ricky's English Pub is a great local bar in downtown Salem. You can come here for a few beers or have a delicious English-style meal. The bar has several British beers on draft as well as bottles of local craft beer you can enjoy. The menu has a nice selection of British classics like fish and chips, bangers and mash, bubble and squeak, and Guinness stew. For those that want something more American, there are burgers, crab cakes, salads, and steaks on the menu as well. This is one of the nicest places in Salem to enjoy dinner and a nice craft beer. Birdfish Brewing Birdfish Brewing is a great brewery and bar located in the nearby town of Columbiana, Ohio. In less than 20 minutes from downtown Salem, you can be enjoying live music, great beer, and a cozy atmosphere. There are constantly rotating taps of the latest beers with a nice selection of IPAs, red ales, pale ales, and porters. Birdfish Brewing is open Thursdays from 4 to 10 p.m., Fridays from 2 to 10 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 10 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 8 p.m. There are so many places to try delicious craft beer around Salem. Whether you want to learn more about the brewing process or you just want to try some new and unique beers, these four bars and breweries will have something for you to enjoy. Photo by ADM5 Photography | Licensed under cc BY-SA 2.0

Planning a summer vacation that everyone in the family will enjoy can be difficult. Check out these different destinations in the Midwest that are easy to get to from Columbiana that the whole family is sure to love. Door County, Wisconsin Door County, Wisconsin, is a wonderful vacation destination that feels like a coastal escape. It's a peninsula that sticks out into Lake Michigan and has tons of fun outdoor activities both adults and kids will enjoy. Depending on where you want to spend your time, you can explore the county's five different state parks, 10 different lighthouses, and a whopping 30 beaches. In total, the peninsula has over 300 miles of coastline to explore. more Traverse City, Michigan Traverse City is another fantastic family vacation destination. Each summer, you can enjoy the week-long Cherry Festival. There are fair rides that young kids will love and plenty of live music for teenagers to enjoy. Head out of the town center to explore some of Lake Michigan's most beautiful beaches. Along the shores of the lake, you can rent a paddleboard or take sailing lessons. There are also tons of trails near the beach where you can go walking or bike riding. You can even take the kids climbing up to the top of the sand dunes. They'll definitely sleep well that evening. Wisconsin Dells There's one main reason to come to Wisconsin Dells for your next family vacation: water parks. The town's unofficial nickname is the Water Park Capital of the World. Kids of all ages will adore the water slides at Olympus Water & Theme Park or the water roller coaster at Noah's Ark Waterpark. It's not just all about the water parks, though. Wisconsin Dells also has tons of natural beauty to explore. Devil's Lake State Park has over 29 miles of hiking trails to challenge yourself with as well as five miles of off-road bike trails, so be sure to pack the mountain bikes for this vacation. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri If your family enjoys getting out onto the water, whether it's to go fishing, swimming, or boating, then you'll love a vacation to the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. It's the largest lake in the state and has over 1,000 miles of shoreline. There are 50 marinas around the lake where you can rent a boat and take it out for a day of adventure. Once you're back on shore, there are tons of other ways to spend your time. Walk along the main street to find souvenir shops, handmade candy stores, and tons of great restaurants. For more adventure, go horseback riding through the Lake of the Ozarks State Park or take a tour of the caverns that surround the lake. If you've got sporty teenagers, head to one of the nearby golf courses for a round of golf. No matter what your family enjoys doing during summer vacation, you're bound to have a blast at these different Midwest vacation spots. Photo by Phil Roeder | Licensed under cc by 2.0

Whether you have a top of the range luxury car or a second-hand vintage model that needs a little bit of TLC, there are a few things that need to accompany you on every trip. From safety to comfort, these are some of the items no road trip can go without. Jumper Cables An item that car owners don't want to leave without, yet strangely enough, seems to be missing from many cars. Jumper cables are handy when the battery runs low and needs a bit of a boost to get to the next destination. more A Thermal Blanket Road trips through chilly areas may not always go as planned and even something as trivial as a drizzle of rain can cause temperatures to plummet. A thermal blanket will not only improve your comfort when your heater breaks down, but may also prevent more serious conditions such as hypothermia. Drinking Water and Snacks Snacks and water are not only handy during a breakdown, but can also give another boost of energy on long and winding roads. Snacks high in protein have a positive effect on drivers, especially when they need to sustain their energy. Sugary snacks can only boost your energy short term. Upbeat and Enjoyable Music There is nothing quite like hitting the road with a few favorite companions and easy listening music. Those that inspire listeners to sing along are even better, as they make the trip seem shorter and more enjoyable. Emergency Medical Kit Although plasters and bandages tend to make up the bulk of the kit, there are a few items that are worthy additions to any medical aid kit. These include antihistamines, antiseptic lotion, burn gel and rehydration sachets. Those on chronic medication should also include their tablets in the kit to have them available on the road at any given time. Weather-Appropriate Tools Ever got stuck in a snow or ice storm? Those who have will know that it is better to use an ice scraper to clean their windshield instead of the wipers. Chains are also a must-have addition to the emergency kit in the car. A flair and reflective triangle are also quite important to reduce the chance of accidents in low visibility areas. The Cleaning Crew Anyone who has ever had to share a car with a toddler will know that tissues and wet wipes are 'must-haves' in the car. These come in handy for those long trips where food on-the-go is required. A disposable bag for the trash will help you keep the car clean. Extreme Situations There are moments in life where a small action can make a large difference and this is where seatbelt cutters and glass breakers come in handy. Small and cheap, they are simply a must-have in any car, and should be within reach in the event of an emergency. Although some items, like snacks and music, make a road trip a little easier, other items are imperative for survival. It may cost a little extra initially to get all the items together, but it's worth to make sure you stay safe and secure on the road. Photo by dlg_images | Licensed under cc by 2.0

With diverse land that ranges from rural farms to urban cities, Ohio offers something for everyone to enjoy. When you're looking for an exciting weekend getaway, pack your bags and consider a few of these top destinations in Ohio. Columbus As the capital of Ohio, there's always something going on in Columbus. If you love to sample different cuisine, you'll be happy to know that Columbus is turning into a foodie city. To get something traditional, head to the German Village neighborhood to find Schmidt's Sausage Haus und Restaurant and Katzinger's Delicatessen. When you want something a little more modern, the Arena District is the place to go. Here you'll find top restaurants that include Nada, Gordon Biersch, and The Three-Legged Mare. more Toledo Situated at the tip of Lake Erie and on the Maumee River, Toledo is known for its abundance of water recreational activities. If you're looking for some outdoor fun, you can rent a motorboat for skiing or tubing or charter a sailboat for a relaxing afternoon. To thoroughly explore all the coves and inlets, consider renting a kayak or canoe. The lake and river are also great for fishing. In fact, your water fun doesn't have to end when winter rolls around, because you can also try your hand at ice fishing. Yellow Springs When you're looking to escape the commotion of the city, Yellow Springs is the perfect small town to head to. Located about 30 minutes east of Dayton, plan a trip to Yellow Springs when you're looking to reconnect with nature. John Bryan State Park is a scenic park where you can go canoeing, fishing, and picnicking. The park also has an 18-hole disc golf course, nine hiking trails, and several mountain-bike trails. Additionally, right next to the park is Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve. Here you'll find hiking trails that take you past some impressive dolomite and limestone gorges. Canton While Canton is known for the Pro Football Hall of Fame, there are plenty of other cultural attractions that make this city worth a weekend getaway. If you enjoy art, the Canton Museum of Art has a permanent collection that focuses on watercolors and works on paper by American artists from the 19th century onward. There's also the William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum, which contains a large collection of artifacts from the 25th president, a science center, and a planetarium. Akron Located less than 45 minutes south of Cleveland, Akron offers a unique mix of cultural institutions and activities for outdoor enthusiasts. The Akron Art Museum features contemporary works of art, and the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is a stunning historic house and museum offering landscaped grounds, tours, and seasonal events. When you want to get outside, Cascade Valley Metro Park is a pet-friendly park that's good for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and sports. Sandusky In the movie Tommy Boy the Callahan Automotive Parts Factory was based in Sandusky, Ohio.  Tommy Callahan (Chris Farley) took his "brother" (Rob Lowe) cow tipping for excitement in Sandusky.  Maybe Tommy did grow up near electrical wires or eat paint chips as a kid because Sandusky is the home of the most phenomenal amusement park in the world!  Cedar Point!  Titled as "America's Roller Coast", Cedar Point has a world-record 72 rides including 16 roller coasters. People from all over the world come to Cedar Point every summer to enjoy the parks food, fun and entertainment. When you're interested in a fun weekend escape in Ohio, these top cities around the state offer something everyone will enjoy. Photo by jpmueller99 | Licensed under cc by 2.0