A fantastic road-trip to Hermitage Farms in Kentucky

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Roadtrip! How lucky are we to be able to drive a little over an hour and have an experience that feels like you are so far away from home?

Just a short jaunt from Cincy and you hit the beautiful rolling hills of Kentucky….specifically Hermitage Farms. You can take a tour of the beautiful horse farm and learn about the winning horses that were bred on this very farm over the years, taste bourbon in a charming horse barn, eat dinner in a cozy stable and maybe even stay the night in a historic home on the property. The Kentucky residents/owners,  Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson purchased the farm to save it from becoming a suburban development. This couple might sound familiar because they are the couple that started the 21C Hotels…That said, you’ll understand that this isn’t just an ole farm destination and it’s so close! So you can visit and explore any of these fun tours or even a picnic lunch. 

We started with a guided tour that was not only informative but fun.  You can even get a peek at the horse carriage from “Gone With the Wind” and pose for pictures with beautiful horses while leaving with great horse facts to impress your friends. The history of this farm has a deep lineage of winners of the Kentucky Derby, Kentucky Oaks, Breeder’s Cup, and just about every other stakes race. So when you take a tour your chances of seeing a “soon to be” champion is pretty good. Oh, and bonus we got to feed treats to some horses… keep bringing on the horses!  

Then off to the bourbon tasting … when in Kentucky you must drink bourbon :) This experience was so one of a kind as it takes place in a rustic yet remodeled stable. We sipped on some top-of-the-list bourbons while learning a little bourbon history. 

Dinner with quite an eye-opening ending to this magical experience… This fantastic farm-to-table restaurant is worth the trip alone! They have gardens and an orchard that provides most of the food you will enjoy at Barn8 Farm Restaurant. The meal and ambiance were amazing.. You have the option of dining in our own stable! And, it goes without saying ….the cocktails were great. This meal doesn’t have to end with just dessert… I suggest you grab a cocktail and go out and stroll the cool Art Walk. They have built a thousand-foot boardwalk for you to enjoy the enchanting outdoor installation where you will see trees, creeks, the walkway, and the sky illuminated and accompanied by music!  It’s magical 

I was lucky enough to be able to stay the night in the historic farmhouse which has been carefully restored and sleeps up to 15 people. The house is like a mini-museum with amazing artwork everywhere which is often rotated. If the house is not being rented it can be toured. This would be a perfect place for a small group like a low-key bachelorette party, birthday celebration, or just a mini escape. This is also a very popular wedding venue, so if you have your wedding here it’s the perfect place for the family or bridal party to stay the night. 

I highly recommend a visit to the farm if you’re driving through Kentucky or you just want a quick day trip. I promise it won’t disappoint. The horse tour, bourbon tasting, and restaurant are open to the public. 

Add this stop to your visit ~

If you’ve got a little time, I also suggest you stop and visit the quaint little town of LaGrange, Ky. which has a train that runs right through the middle. The town is full of good people and small-town vibes. Grab a coffee at LaGrange Coffee Roasters and make sure to go to One Nineteen West Main for their famous Kentucky Bacon Pie and definitely grab some  “The Devil made me chew it eggs’.  Walk from one end of the street to the other and see the collection of shops all in a short walk “The Mercantile on Main” and “The Mercantile Market on Main” that bookend the town. My favorite shop is Judith Millinery Supply..it was such a treat! They make every kind of hat you could ever need and you can even join in on a workshop and make your own… Hello Derby ;) 

Hey Michelle noticed it first haha the HGTV show Home Town Kickstart also noticed this adorable town and will air a story about La Grange in May. Check out their website and see some future events. 

 

A Road Trip to the Hocking Hills Treehouse Cabins!

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Some of us dream of traveling to faraway places, but to wear out the saying “blame it on 2020/21,” traveling far distances is a little difficult right now. Lucky for us, we have some really great places that are only a couple of hours’ drive where you can feel like you’re far away. Make sure to scroll all the way down to see the WCPO segment giving you more details. 

Recently, I grabbed a few friends and hit the road. We drove through some winding, tree-lined roads a couple of hours from home and pulled off into the Treehouse Cabins in Hocking Hills.  I was smitten right away! We found ourselves in a wooded area with adorable treehouse cabins that were the cutest dang things ever. Owner Julien & Bridget Allen have literally built these quaint tree houses around trees! They are like tiny houses on stilts with cute little bedrooms, a nice bathroom, and a kitchen… everything you need in a compact area with every inch of space creatively used ;) and a spacious deck surrounding the house. They also have a  comfy firepit deck with adirondack chairs and plenty of wood to keep you warm. We had another walkway to a porch swing right in the middle of the beautiful wooded area. Oh, and check out the pics of the rustic hot tub that is wood-heated. It totally reminded me of the show Petticoat Junction (showing my age here). 

The Allens have thought of everything. The cabins are so cute with games and little heat-generating wall “fireplace”, books, updated rustic decor, and other fun surprises to make you feel welcome. The added bonus is that you’re right up the road from some of the most amazing hiking trails. 

 

We were lucky to get some beautiful sunny days in early December which made the Hocking Hills trails dry and sun filled. The first day we did Old Man’s Cave, which was very long but mostly flat and pretty. There were cool waterfalls and picturesque caves and rock areas with streams. I couldn’t stop taking pictures because it was just so pretty. It is just an unbelievable escape into nature and so peaceful. 

On day two, we hiked the rim at Conkle’s Hollow which is an 87 acre state nature preserve.  Ok, this one was a little more challenging but, WOW, when you wind your way up to the top, the views are spectacular. You can’t believe you are smack dab in Ohio. It is really steep so I won’t mention any names but … a couple of people were grabbing onto the trees! Haha, I wouldn’t take kids on this hike maybe because being the mom of three boys I see too much joking and pushing and shoving to ever risk that :) With that said it was worth every step up. 

Hiking is just such a great way to breathe and take in so much beautiful nature. A chance to unplug and relax. Hocking Hills is a huge area with so many places to stay and tons of trails to explore. 

Here is a glimpse into my visit with Kristyn Hartman on WCPO

The surrounding area has other adventures such as zip-lining, fishing, John Glenn Astronomy Park, horseback riding, canoeing, and so much more. I highly recommend the Treehouse Cabins and I can’t wait to go back.  

 

A Night at the Guild in Cincinnati

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Today I welcome guest writer Grace Dearing to my Hey Michelle? Blog.  This isn’t Grace’s debut that’s for sure as she has written articles for Cincinnati Magazine, Variant Magazine, CityBeat, and more. You’ve probably read her stories ‘cause they have caught my attention.

Grace had the opportunity to have a little staycation in Cincy which I thought you would enjoy reading. There is always something new and cool around every corner of our great city, so I thought having someone else share their experience would be fun and helpful… Thanks, Grace,  for giving my readers a new thing to do. I definitely need to check it out! 

A Visit to The Guild ~

Picture this: you wake up on any given day and pour yourself a steaming mug of coffee as your favorite band’s record scratches and pops beneath the needle of your record player. You run through a list of today’s tasks in your head — which consists only of hitting the downstairs gym & yoga studio and making the less than ten-minute walk to Over-the-Rhine to browse its many eateries and boutiques — before pampering yourself in your lavish bathroom … downtown living is exactly where you’re meant to be. 

Okay, I’ll be the first to admit that this leisurely lifestyle isn’t as easily attainable for some people as it is for others … and some of us want to experience it only temporarily. Fortunately, The Guild Downtown’s Vine Street location is here to fulfill your interim downtown living dreams with luxurious apartment-style hotel rooms!

Complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, SmartTV, in-room washer/dryer and complimentary coffee, The Guild is the ideal staycation retreat. Strategically placed in the heart of the business district, the hotel room, located inside the Provident Bank Building, is just three minutes away from Fountain Square, an eight-minute walk from Over-the-Rhine and a quick eight-minute drive (or Uber) to Findlay Market. The Guild’s Vine Street location is perfect for exploring the best of downtown Cincinnati without having to worry about the hassle of downtown driving and parking!

Launched in 2018, The Guild “aims to bring the 200,000-year-old hotel industry into the new age” with its untraditional rooms. The company’s more than 400 rooms across Cincinnati, Dallas Texas, Austin, Texas, and Miami, Florida, are placed inside already existing apartment buildings. These floors are reserved exclusively for Guild use to allow the company’s staff to ensure every room stays up to standard. Plus, staff members have made themselves available via text for easy and timely responses to any questions or requests.

 

Although I could’ve spent the whole stay simply enjoying the luxury and relaxation within the hotel room, there are so many attractions nearby that are must-visits while you’re in town! Here are my nearby favorites:

  • Start your morning with a coffee and a walk through Washington Park.
  • Spend the day exploring the latest installations at the Contemporary Arts Center & 21c Museum Hotel Gallery.
  • Choose from a variety of must-try restaurants like Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, Sotto and Prime Cincinnati to end your night!

 

Glamping… A beautiful night under the stars!

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@ThePopUpBnb  , I started as a stalker on Instagram then I quickly became obsessed!  I said I have to do this!! Glamping… yes, not a typo it is 100% posh camping. The beds were so comfortable and the tents are very spacious so it’s not exactly roughing it here. The adorable couple behind The Pop-Up BNB that spends their days scouting out beautiful places all over Cincinnati, Indiana, Kentucky, and New England (yes the one far away) to set up camp, have found a way for people to enjoy camping without the hassle. Think about the timing … an option for a safe getaway during COVID… can’t get any better than out in the wilderness and in a pimped out tent!

Kelly & Andy are like… let’s say umm camping fairies! They provide an amazing experience.  You pick when you go and they do everything else :) They show up before you and set up absolutely everything you need, plus all the things you didn’t even think about. You come and enjoy the hell out of everything from the perfect farms or land they have chosen, to the beautiful huge tent it offers the best night ever. You leave and they come and take everything down… you see what I mean? They are the best people you may never personally meet hahaha. I adore how these two lovebirds took a passion and made it a wonderful business that we all get to enjoy. 

 

I chose a night on a 350-acre working farm with a lake in Cynthiana, KY. My friend Amy and I hit the road for a girl’s night. We grabbed our favorite cocktails, some food (my personal fav, barbeque Fritos!), and off we went. I picked this because I love lakes and wanted to be able to kayak or canoe. The great thing is you can pick your weekend by the vibe you want or location. We had the most beautiful night playing cards, drinking by the fire, walking the land and we even had a chance to canoe around the little lake which was super relaxing. Then the best… a storm came in!! The tent was so amazing we sat inside listening to the rain echo and watched a movie projected on the inside of the tent with the coolest mini projector (all was part of our package). We woke up to chirping birds and a bright sunrise. Perfection! 

There is nothing that they haven’t thought of…so if a standard, already decked out tent isn’t what you want, I’m sure there is something on the extensive “add-on list” that you can use to upgrade your stay. Things like a S’more kits, party decor, breakfast, coolers with ice, etc. They also offer special occasion setups for engagements, bachelorette parties, weddings, etc. Think out of the tent on this :) you could set up a popup tent village for a group of people. I’m telling you these tents are amazing and I assure you will have a great night. 

They are out on the road as of right now but will be poppin back in the Cincinnati area in September. Cincinnati area bookings are available now. Although take a look, maybe your summer is taking you near where they are and you can reserve this unique “experience” now. They set up camp through November. Fall in Ohio around the fire sipping on Fireball… yes, please. 

The Lytle Park Hotel… A beautiful night stay in Cincinnati

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Lytle Park Hotel

Have you been Looking for a great hotel in the heart of Cincinnati that is rich in history, has a great restaurant, and an amazing rooftop with incredible panoramic views? Well… it’s open and it’s the new Lytle Park Hotel!

 

The hotel is an Autograph Collection that was built on the site of the historic Anna Louise Inn which is in Lytle Park, another city gem.  The building is unique and so cool as they preserved the charm of the Inn and built the hotel around it and another existing building.   Entering the lobby, you can glance up and see the original windows but don’t forget to take time to look at the street side view from the outside… I love how they kept so much of the original structure. The lobby’s chandeliers are stunning and the color scheme is so inviting throughout.  This is what makes an Autograph collection so unique in each city. They really let the hotels embrace the history and story of the city it’s in. 

 

Let me say that no stone was left unturned when designing this beauty and bringing homage to Cincinnati with the amazing decor. You will be in awe the minute you enter the lobby. The feel of the park is present inside and out with the theme subtly apparent throughout. An eye-catching skylight above the lobby bar lights the upside-down queen tiara, boasting 96 jewels, a nod to the Queen City.  Behind the indoor dining for Subito (means “fast” in French) there is a private dining room called the Oak Room. I want to mention this room because they kept this room, but had to lower the floor 4ft. which is why the windows are very high providing such a cool perspective of the different views… This just shows how much care and thought went into the preservation of this hotel.

And who doesn’t want to look over Lytle Park and the Taft Museum as they dined outdoors? This whole area is open-air and has heated floors, so is a perfect place to dine outdoors during the Fall months. We had the pleasure of a beautiful night of dining on the patio. The menu has something for everyone. Housemade pasta, stone-oven pizzas to Osso Buco and Steaks but don’t skip over the salad and apps. I loved the Prosciutto & Bleu Salad, Fritto Misto yumm lightly fried shrimp, calamari, broccolini, oysters, and then we shared the Salmon and one of the amazing steaks. They have scratch-made sauces that will take your steak to another level ;)  fantastic. 

There are 106 rooms including 2 Presidential Suites and a few executive suits. I had the chance to stay the night and the rooms are beautiful with special touches throughout. The luxury Parisian bathrooms, Italian linens, Nespresso coffee maker, and after CODID19, they will resume special touches like turndown service and more. 

The topper (pun intended) is the Vista Rooftop Bar. This is now the largest and only 4- season rooftop in Cincinnati with beautiful panoramic views of the city. A gorgeous Rookwood bar serving up drinks in pretty crystal glasses… making the drinks taste even better ;) There is also a food menu to enjoy. All of the accordion doors and windows can close allowing a view all year long. 

So, go soak it in, whether you want to just look around and have a drink, eat dinner or book a night the Lytle Hotel is truly a new gem in our city. Here are some highlights you should keep in mind. 

Things to look for while visiting:

  • #1 is the amazing piano player in the lobby on the weekends! 
  • The Rookwood fountain by the elevators that was built in 1910 in the original building
  • The cool mirror wall by the Vista bathrooms
  • Check out the shop in the lobby for some Cincy favorites. 
  • They have office space for meetings in the lower level which also houses a kitchen area, tables for games, and a lounge area for work or reading. There is also a state of the art gym with a Peloton bike and tons of equipment.
  • Pet friendly up to 50 lbs.
  • A beautiful room with an outside balcony that can be rented for parties, weddings, meetings, etc.
  • Try the Mable Manhattan only in the lobby bar! It is named after a lady who was an immigrant and lived in Lytle her whole life. She visited the hotel during construction but passed away at 106 before the opening. 

When visiting you should check out a few places:

  • Take a short walk along sidewalks then over the Purple People Bridge. A wonderful outdoor fun area with food and drinks at Newport on the Levy and the Aquarium
  • The Taft Museum – 200 year old historic house filled with amazing charm and works of art.
  • Many of our amazing restaurants. Check out my Instagram or website for ideas
  • Walk along the river to Smale Park. 
  • Enjoy Reds, Bengals and FC soccer games and the Reds Museum 

Here is the clip of my WCPO 9 on your side with Kristyn Hartman for more views
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_gtveScNVTw

A Fun Filled Visit to Middletown Ohio!

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I was invited to spend 48 hours in Middletown, Ohio. Since I haven’t been to Middletown for a long time, I am sure I thought the same thing you are thinking right now…whats going on in Middletown? It only took me pulling into our cute boutique hotel to convince me that this was going to be fun!

Middletown is working hard on making a comeback, and in the last 3 years with dedication and the idea of revival they’ve been on an upswing and I can only it see it getting better. Our schedule was packed with so many fun activities. You are going to be amazed at this longer than usual post from me. First, let me just say the passion and love the locals have for their community was inspiring. Most shop owners were from Middletown and many had moved away for years only to return to the calm close-knit community after living in places like LA, Charleston, Virginia, Boston and more. They all said the same thing… they liked growing up there and wanted to come back and let their kids have that same experience. Another thing they had in common was the ambition to invest in the town to get the ball rolling as far as restaurants and stores.

We stayed in the cutest boutique hotel called Indigo Pass. This is a cool modern, hip and cozy hotel that is walking distance to all the fun stuff going on in Middletown and close to all we did during our 2-day visit.

The Swire – 64 S. Main St. -We started our trip with lunch at the most quaint restaurant located in the most charming old historic home. The ambiance, staff, and menu were amazing.

Very important (if you read my blogs) they have a fun cocktail menu. I sipped on the “Blame it on the Juice” and after a few, you might just do that :) The menu is full of greatness, but don’t leave without devouring an order of onion rings and “special sauce” Yummmm … When you walk out the door, take a minute to peek into the iconic Sorg Opera House just across the street. It is slowly being brought back to life and the story of the Sorgs is pretty cool.

Connections Day Spa-50 S. Main St.- not on our agenda, but worth a shoutout! Really cool salon and spa. They do a great giveback on the second Saturday that provides kids haircuts and the proceeds go to Sleep In Heavenly Peace which provides beds for children in need. Loved the vibe and the owner Sabrina!

Pendleton Art Center -1105 Central Ave.- We have a Pendleton in Cincinnati and they extended their love of art and community to Middletown. Pendleton is a collection of individual art studios you can visit, participate and purchase one-of-a-kind art creations. We were lucky to participate in an ornament-making class with Maura Lisa Studio. She was delightful and we went home with adorable ornaments that added flare to my tree and made for unique and fun gifts for my friends.

Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop – 1212 Central Ave.- Who doesn’t love a candy shop? This iconic and stocked-full-of- goodness candy shop is the home of the World Famous $5 candy buffet! You get a box and can fill it to the brim as long as the box can close..haha…not an easy task! Part of the fun is watching everyone rearranging the candy to try to fit just one more piece :) It’s not just candy either, they have some fun gift items and a soda pop collection that is out of this world!

White Dog Distilling– 1357 Central Ave. -Mike & Debbie were such a treat to talk to. Mike took his hobby to business and Middletown is lucky to have them. This great little watering hole is so cute with games to play at the tables while you sip on Mikes distilled vodka, gin, agave spirits, and rum. I loved the bottles with cool old pictures of Middletown on the labels … great gift idea! We came back later in the evening to get down with the band and hang out with our new friends we met throughout the day… so much fun ;)

Spoken-1201 Central Ave. – So this was another “not on the list of activities” we were walking to dinner and past this cool bike shop, but when I looked in the windows I noticed a group of people laughing and drinking so, of course, I had to check it out! Low and behold … there is a cute bar inside the shop… genius and so fun. Side note the I saw the whole crew and owners later at White Dog so basically, we’re all buds now ;)

Gracies – 1131 Central Ave. – So, Ami who owns the hotel we stayed in also owns Gracies and Haven the yoga studio  (I love this small town vibe). Gracies, named after her grandmother was delightful. The back story is Ami Vitoris’ grandparents owned a long-running grocery in town. They worked side-by-side serving the community and everyone was like family. In 2007, the grocery closed after a great 61-year run. Ami returned to Middletown after living in LA, DC & New York to raise her kids with family. She purchased a building that is home to all of her businesses with the belief that “ this town matters and the investing in a small town can change the world.” She and others want to be part of a comeback story of Middletown “ The rebirth of an all – American city.” Oh, and the food, vibe, and cocktails were great… loved it all including the story :)

Land of Illusions Christmas Glow – This was 1.5 miles and over 3.5 million lights … if that doesn’t scream “ get ya in the spirit” I don’t know what does! In addition, there are rides, huge fire pits, shopping, Santa, petting zoo, holiday movies, live characters and more. You have to check this place out at Halloween too because from what I hear that is really really, really unbelievable.

West Central Wine – 1120 Central- We had to stop in this cute place and happy we did. Great cozy atmosphere and fun bartender. They have a light bite menu that looked yummy. They have a full bar and nice wine collection obviously ;) You can look for my Hey Michelle sticker on the bar frig :)

Java Johnny’s – 3534 Central Ave. – This is how we started our Sunday and that was a great way to do it. The coffee was great but please grab a fat ooey, gooey chocolate chip cookie (heated up) or a delish scone yummm

Haute Fusion Glass Studio– 1050 Central Ave. – Meeting John the artist & owner was a treat. He’s a cool cat from Manhattan and his energy was contagious. He loves what he does and it shows through his work and the way he shared his talent as we learned the process of making glass ornaments. His shop is full of his beautiful creations and award-winning pieces. He holds classes all the time and it is so much fun. He also has a popular selling e-book which showcases some of his unique techniques for all skill levels oh and he’s a father of 5 kids what a guy … look for him at art shows all over even one of my faves the Hyde Park show :) I will definitely be going back to make more fun things.

Bourbon’s Craft Kitchen & Bar-2231 N. Verity Pkwy- Loved this place! It was perfect for grabbing a fantastic lunch at the bar and watch some football ( Bengals lost :). We shared an awesome Gyro and dangerous plate of Queso Poutine fries… dang, why is everything that is not healthy so dang good? They have a menu full of options and a bar stocked with over 130 whiskeys.

Holiday in the Highlands Home Tour- 2709 McGee Ave- This was an event you should put on your calendar for next year! We had a tour through a beautiful historic neighborhood of Middletown. The homes are decorated incredibly for the holidays and you get to look all around the homes and meet the owners. I will remind you of this next year :)

Next visit I’m hitting

The Jug for a burger! This legendary drive-up burger joint has been around 87 years serving up sacks of burgers, root beers, soft-serve ice cream and more and now it’s open all year!

If you’re working on your Donut Trail Passport be sure to cruise through and get a stamp at Central Pastry Shop!

Halloween–I’m coming back to Land of Illusion Scream Park– the 3rd best haunt in America and the best haunted trail in the US… yikes there are over 4 hours of thrills and 6 different haunts! They also are the home of the huge new water park in the summer. 

I need to check out some of the breweries like Fig Leaf and the gluten free brewery  Rolling Mill  eveyone raved about this spot.

Oh, and stop in Gold Beret Vintage & Thrift Shop. 1118 Central Ave. They have a fantastic collection of clothes, shoes and jewels.