Here in Ohio, dinner can be much more than just a delicious meal. Throughout the state, there are several unique restaurant and transportation options that serve dinner with a side of adventure. From scenic dinner trains to riverboat cruises, the following are 9 one-of-a-kind adventures you can only have in Ohio.
1. The 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 every Saturday 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 click here.
2. Clifton Mill (Clifton)
One of the largest water powered grist mills still in existence, Clifton Mill is fueled by the Little Miami River. This historic site of Clifton Mill features a vintage mill, a covered bridge, a 1940s-era gas station and a quaint American restaurant. It's located at 75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316.
3. Bromfield's Dining Lodge (Mohican State Park)
With floor to ceiling windows, Bromfield’s Dining Room features stunning views of the surrounding forest and Pleasant Hill Lake. In the fall, it makes for a particularly colorful sight to see. On the menu, you'll find daily specials, seafood, Italian dishes, salads, soups, sandwiches, and more. After your meal, there's plenty to explore. It's located at 1098 County Road 3006, Perrysville, OH 44864.
4. The Barn Restaurant (Smithville)
A refurbished rustic barn, board games and a scenic lake you can explore outside give this unique eatery an unbelievably charming atmosphere. You’ll fall in love with the setting and feel right at home. The Barn Restaurant is located at 877 W Main St., Smithville, OH 44677.
5. BB Riverboats (Newport, KY)
If you cross the state line in Cincinnati over to Newport, Kentucky, you’ll find a riverboat cruise option that’s the picture perfect end to a day in the city. There are multiple dinner cruise options, including the Captain's Dinner Cruise, Admiral's Dinner and the Family Dinner Cruise. Each cruise varies in length, dates and times. (For a complete list of both signature and speciality cruises, click here.) You'll find it at 101 Riverboat Row, Newport, KY 41071.
6. The Stockport Mill Inn and Restaurant on the Dam (Stockport)
Tucked away along the Muskingum River in southeast Ohio, you'll find this hidden gem. The last remaining mill on the river is now a one-of-a-kind overnight getaway and restaurant. Today, it is still powered by hydroelectricity, and the mill itself has been in operation since 1842. You'll find it at 1995 Broadway St., Stockport, OH 43787.
7. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (Peninsula)
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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 a scenic ride through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the year until the first weekend in October. For more information click here.
8. Lake Hope Lodge (McArthur)
Vinton County is home to one of Ohio's most underrated parks, Lake Hope State Park, as well as an incredible dining lodge. With two stories, plenty of seating, and floor-to-ceiling windows, there isn't a bad seat in the house. You'll feel at home here, but you'll also be impressed by the atmosphere. You'll find it at 27331 State Rt 278, McArthur, OH 45651.
9. The LakeHouse Inn and Winery (Geneva-on-the-Lake)
Tucked away along the shores of Lake Erie at Geneva-on-the-Lake, you'll find this quaint inn and restaurant in the heart of Ohio Wine Country. With breathtaking views of Lake Erie, you'll feel as if you're right on the water here, miles and miles away from everything. Taste some wine on the patio, explore the grounds and stay overnight if you can. It's located at 5653 Lake Rd E Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH 44041.
Have you taken any of these dinner adventures before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like! Share your thoughts and recommendations with us!
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