There are some things in this world that just go so beautifully together. Peanut butter and jelly, swimming and ice cream, spaghetti and Skyline Chili - these are all a match made in heaven. We've paired together two more favorite things that also happen to go quite nicely together. If you enjoy sipping delicious wine and chasing down beautiful waterfalls, then this day trip needs to be your next outing. We'll take you to the best wine and waterfalls around the Queen City, and all in one day, too! If you'd like help with directions, just follow Google Map link to customize it to your needs. Check out these five stops on the ultimate wine and waterfalls day trip around Cincinnati, and get ready for a memorable adventure in our little corner of Ohio!
1. Breakfast at Clifton Mill
Clifton Mill is a lovely, historic property just north of Cincinnati that includes a delicious restaurant, stunning grounds to explore, and a beautiful waterfall to begin your day. Their breakfast is fresh and tasty and the property is filled with photo opportunities, including the waterfalls that crash down the side of the mill. Fuel up and relax because the next stop will take a bit more energy. Learn more about Clifton Mill and this unforgettable setting in our previous article.
2. Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve
Just a few minutes from Clifton Mill is the naturally beautiful Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, in the heart of Yellow Springs, Ohio. It's here that you'll continue to chase waterfalls as you descend into the gorge. They may not rival Niagara Falls, but these little rapids and waterfalls are perfectly relaxing and provide delightful scenery and sound effects as you hike along the trails. For more information on the Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, check out our previous article.
3. Valley Vineyards
After some waterfall chasing, it's time to get to the wine portion of this day trip. Head south for a little under an hour to Valley Vineyards in Morrow. This beautiful vineyard and winery offers wine flights and you can grab a bite to eat to hold you over until dinner. Along with the award-winning wines, choose from bites like cheese plates or pretzels, or order a few pizzas to share. Relax, take in the scenery, sip wine, and look forward to seeking out another waterfall at your next stop. Who says you have to travel to Napa Valley for a wine country experience?! Learn all about Valley Vineyards in our previous article here.
4. Sharon Woods
After you finish up your wine and lunch, continue on for about a half an hour to Sharon Woods. This incredible park is home to a few stunning waterfalls, and when the water is really flowing, they are easily the best falls close to Cincinnati. The park is filled with abundant natural beauty all year long, but the waterfalls are always a favorite feature. One of our favorite hikes here is the Gorge Trail, which, during the winter, even leads by a frozen fall! Learn more about Sharon Woods in our previous article here.
5. The Wildflower Cafe
When planning this day trip, be sure to make late evening reservations at The Wildflower Cafe in Mason to wrap up your fun-filled day. This lovely cafe was recently named one of the best wine restaurants in the entire country, and the food is equally as incredible. It's the ideal spot to visit after a day of waterfall chasing and wine sipping, and it'll leave you near Cincinnati so you can easily head back home after this unique day trip excursion. For more information about The Wildflower Cafe, check out our previous article here.
Wine and waterfalls... does it get any better? In our humble opinion, wine and waterfalls should also be known as a great pair, and this wonderful day trip around Cincinnati is all the proof you need. Would you like to venture out on this unique adventure in the Buckeye State? Tag someone in the comments who would be up for the trip!
And for more day trip ideas around Cincinnati, here are nine amazing destinations sure to fit whatever mood you're in!
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