About Penitentiary Glen Reservation

Penitentiary Glen was named by settlers because of the deep gorge that divides the park. With a vertical 100-foot ascent, once at the bottom, it was so difficult to get out that they considered it like a prison or penitentiary!

Activities at this park include hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and birding. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources designated this as a ‘Watchable Wildlife’ site.

Nature Center

The Nature Center features an interactive ‘Nature Calls’ exhibit where visitors can discover the sounds of the wildlife they may encounter in the park. There are seasonal art shows and a photography show each year. The Nature Center building may also be rented for private functions.

Nature Play is an acre of land for children to engage in nature discovery activities interactively.

Kevin P. Clinton Wildlife Center

Each year, this Wildlife Center rehabilitates nearly 2,000 animals. Special attention is given to animals whose populations are in decline.

Trails

There are seven trails at Penitentiary Glen Reservation, six of which can be used by bikers, and one of which can be used by horseback riders. A trail map is available online.

Miniature Steam Train Rides

Lake Shore Live Steamers are miniature steam-powered engines that take visitors through the woodlands to the rim of the gorge on selected dates. These train rides are sometimes part of the park’s special events.

More Activities and Facilities

Photo credits: Cindy Gordon of VisitOhioToday.com

Where is Penitentiary Glen Located?

• Address: 8668 Kirtland-Chardon Rd, Kirtland, Ohio 44094
• Phone: 440-256-1404 | Website | Facebook

Location Map for Penitentiary Glen

Let’s Visit Penitentiary Glen Reservation

Have you been to Penitentiary Glen Reservation? What was your favorite activity there? We would love to know! Leave a comment below and share your experience with us.

While you are in the area, you may like to visit Holden Arboretum, which is also in Kirtland.

If you are enjoying a visit as a couple or a group of adults, or even a solo visit, Wineries in Geneva are relaxing and enjoyable places to visit. Our suggestions include Ferrante Winery, Hundley Cellars, and M Cellars. We also have a comprehensive directory of Ohio Wineries.

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Holden Arboretum has 10 hiking trails, totaling 25 miles. Three trails are combinations of the six shorter trails.

Things to do at Holden Arboretum include the Corning Visitor Center, the Murch Canopy Walk, Rhododendron Gardens, an observation tower, a wildflower garden, a butterfly garden, the display garden, an art gallery, and a library.

For the youngsters, there is Buckeye Bud’s Adventure Woods, where there are numerous activities for kids to get involved in nature at its best!

During the fall, there is a Leaf Trail. Collect a brochure at the Arboretum and follow the trail trying to find one of each of the 27 varieties of leaves. There are rules to this trail that will be in the brochure, or you can check them out online before you visit.

Where is Holden Arboretum Located?

• Address: 9550 Sperry Rd, Kirtland, Ohio 44094
• Phone: 440-946-4400 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Location Map for Holden Arboretum

More Places to Visit in Ohio

Are you looking for more great places to visit in Ohio? Here are some suggestions – Caesar Creek State Park, Cedar Cliff Falls, Indian Mound Reserve

Check out more local gems in Ohio – Poland Library, Blacklick Woods Canopy Walk, Trolls at Aullwood Audubon, and Groovy Plants Ranch.

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc, are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com, and we can get it updated.

To be updated and stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter.

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March 21 @ 10:00 am – March 22 @ 4:00 pm

The Railfest Train Show is the largest continuous running two-day train show in Ohio that takes place at Lakewood Community College in Kirtland.

Presented by National Model Railroad Association MCR Division 5, the Railfest Train Show is hailed as one of the best and largest model railroad train shows in Ohio. This family activity offers six train rooms to visit. New and collectible trains will be there!

There will be model railroad dealers and operating model railroad displays. The operating layouts will be as follows: N Scale, O Gauge, S Scale & American Flyer, Lionel O Gauge, LGB G Gauge, and Live Steam Display.

Some highlights of the train show include an RR flea market, as well as exhibitors, videotapes, and historical displays. A test track will be available, too. 

Train ride info will be available. There will be free parking and a free shuttle bus. 

Choose from a variety of foods, like a sausage, egg, and cheese breakfast sandwich or a bagel with cream cheese to a chili dog, turkey wrap, or garden salad. Please note that they only accept credit cards.

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About Petting Farms in Ohio

Petting Farms have different species of animals. Some petting farms may have horses, sheep, and cows. Some have different types of animals that may not normally be found in a regular petting farm.

Below are 12 petting farms in Ohio that have something for every member of the family to enjoy.

Map of Petting Farms in Ohio

Majestic Meadows Alpacas

This is a large 20-acre farm that has open fields and pastures. As their name suggests, this farm has lots of Alpacas. There are also other animals on this farm such as Highland Angus cows, red kangaroos, a camel, babydoll sheep, and others. This farm also has a cute boutique that sells souvenir items. Visitors are encouraged to engage with the alpacas and miniature donkeys.

• Address: 4195 Abbeyville Rd, Medina, Ohio 44256
• Phone: 330-725-2977 | Facebook | Instagram

Feels Like Home Farm

This farm is a private farm and residence. However, if you call them, they will schedule a private appointment for you to come and visit the farm. They also offer the chance to snuggle up with the goats and other animals.

• Address: 10875 Sperry Rd, Kirtland, Ohio 44094
• Phone: 440-724-5121 | Facebook

Downs On The Farm

This is a wonderful place to visit as the main aim of the farm is for all people to get up close and personal with their animals. Downs On The Farm is a federally approved non-profit organization. It is a wonderful place where children who have special requirements are able to pet the lovely animals in peace and tranquility.

The farm also rescues a lot of its animals from abuse, so this place is close to the heart of many people. On the farm, there is also a playground for the kids and train rides.

• Address: 49456 Telegraph Rd, Amherst, Ohio 44001
• Phone: 970-397-2010 | Facebook

Stearns Homestead Farm

Stearns Homestead Farm is the last working, educational farm in the Parma area. This farm is open on a seasonal basis from mid-May through to mid-October. The farm has lots of animals to see and pet as well.

This farm is great for kids and adults alike. They hold events throughout the season as well. Check on their website to see any events they are planning when you wish to visit.

• Address: 6975 Ridge Rd, Parma, Ohio 44129
• Phone: 440-845–9770 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Party at the Barn

This is a family-owned petting farm that arranges events as well. If you wish to hold an event at this petting farm, you need to contact them ahead of time to make a reservation. There are several different animals here that love to be petted, including kittens, goats, chicks, and pigs.

They even have a Pony who can give the smaller children a ride. This farm is open on a seasonal basis and offers various event packages, so it is best to check out their website.

• Address: 945 Bartlett Rd, Aurora, Ohio 44202
• Phone: 702-401-8981 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

The Spicy Lamb Farm

This is an intimate, small, family-run business that is very popular with visitors. The Spicy Lamb Farm has a range of animals that love to see visitors, including ducks, sheep, bees, and other farmyard animals.

Various fruits and vegetables are also grown here, so it is a really lovely setting. Classes, tours, and special events are available if you wish to visit the farm, and the farm also sells products.

• Address: 6560 Akron-Peninsula Rd, Peninsula, Ohio 44264
• Phone: 330-657-2012 | Website | Facebook

The Ohio Bird Sanctuary

Now, this petting farm is a bit different! The Ohio Bird Sanctuary lets visitors enjoy our feathered friends up close and personal. Various viewing areas allow visitors to see birds, such as owls, songbirds, eagles, and hawks.

There is also a walk through the woods down to the local river. Along the walk, you can see the other birds that live here. The Ohio Bird Sanctuary is open all year round.

There are also picnic areas, a visitor’s area, and the children’s Naturescape play area. This establishment is also stroller and wheelchair friendly.

• Address: 3774 Orweiler Rd, Mansfield, Ohio 44903
• Phone: 419-884-4295 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Mill Creek Metroparks Farm

This is quite a large petting farm. It is over 400 acres. There are lots of animals here for visitors to pet, and there is also a focus on education.

This farm offers tours, display areas, and programs as well. There is also a barn that is open on a seasonal basis, ponds, a sunflower field, and an archery Range. There is also a lovely trail that is named after Mindy Henning.

• Address: 7574 Columbiana-Canfield Rd, Canfield, Ohio 44406
• Phone: 330-533-7572 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Lake Metroparks Farmpark

This farm is located in Kirtland and has lots of animals for visitors to pet. Some of the animals here include rabbits, horses, alpacas, chickens, sheep, pigs, and cows.

The farm also has wagons drawn by tractors, plus a playground and lots of farm machinery. The farm also hosts numerous events throughout the year, so if you are keen to see an event here, please check out their website.

• Address: 8800 Euclid Chardon Rd, Kirtland, Ohio 44094
• Phone: 800-366-3276 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery

Hershberger’s Farm is located in the heart of Ohio’s Amish country. In addition to the family petting area, there is also an Amish bakery, a food trailer, and a store.

The animals here are very friendly and enjoy interacting with people. There are ducks, horses, cows, rabbits, and others. You can also purchase some food to feed the animals. This is a fun day out for all the family.

• Address: 5452 State Route 557, Millersburg, Ohio 44654
• Phone: 330-674-6096 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Hale Farm & Village

Hale Farm and Village is open on a seasonal basis. It is located in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Of course, the farm animals are here and waiting for you to visit, but this farm also offers visitors the opportunity to observe demonstrations in crafts and trade as well.

Talks and demonstrations take place, and these activities tell people how the farm works. The people who work on the farm are in costume, so it really does feel like you are going back in time.

• Address: 2686 Oak Hill Rd, Bath, Ohio 44210
• Phone: 330-666-3711 | Website | Instagram

The Farm at Walnut Creek

This petting farm is a bit different as it is a working farm; the practices of the farm change as much as the seasons of the year change. Visitors can view the animals and even feed them as well.

You can feed the animals from a wagon or a car. The petting area also lets guests get up close. Visitors also have the chance to take pictures and look at the farmhouses. This is a great day out, and it is open on a seasonal basis.

• Address: 4147 County Route 114, Sugarcreek, Ohio 44681
• Phone: 330-893-4200 | Website | Facebook | Instagram

Let’s Visit Petting Farms in Ohio!

Have you found your way to any Petting Farms in Ohio yet? Which is your favorite? We’d love to know what you think about your favorite petting farm! Let us know by commenting below.

Did you know that there are also a few zoos in Ohio?

Make sure you check out our round-up article dedicated to Ohio’s Zoos and Freshwater Farms.

If you love the outdoors, try going to Baumans Orchards and Quarry Hills Orchards.

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc, are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com, and we can get it updated.

To be updated and stay connected, subscribe to our newsletter.

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Map of Cross-Country Skiing In Ohio

Cross-Country Skiing in Northeast Ohio

Cleveland Metroparks

Cleveland Metroparks offers cross-country skiing on hiking, bridle, and all-purpose trails, as well as the fairways and rough areas of six golf courses. Cross-country skiing can take place when there is a four-inch snow base. Ski rentals are available at Big Met Golf Course in Rocky River. Guided instruction is typically available in January and February. There are three programs available: Introduction to Cross-Country Skiing, Try-It, and Learn-It.

• Address: 4101 Fulton Pkwy, Cleveland, Ohio 44144
• Phone: 216-635-3270 | Website | Facebook

Geauga Park District

In Geauga County, skiing is permitted at 23 of the parks that are located in this district. On the website, there are different classes and programs available for visitors to take part in.

• Address: 9160 Robinson Rd, Chardon, Ohio 44024
• Phone: 440-286-9516 | Website | Facebook

Lake Metroparks

In Lake County, Skiing is available at the Chapin Forest Reservation and Girdled Road Reservation. Ski equipment can be rented at the Pine Lodge Ski Center. It should also be noted that Chapin Forest Trails are floodlit at night. There are trail maps for both the Chapin Forest Reservation and Girdled Road Reservation.

• Address: 11211 Spear Rd, Painesville, Ohio 44077
• Phone: 440-256-2118 | Website | Facebook

Lorain County Parks

In Lorain County, skiing is permitted in all of the parks. Skiing is also permitted at Forest Hills Golf Course and Schoepfle Garden provided there is at least 3 inches of snow on the ground. Skiers must bring their own equipment.

• Address: 12882 Diagonal Rd, LaGrange, Ohio 44050
• Phone: 440-458-5121 | Website | Facebook

Mill Creek MetroParks

In Mahoning County, skiing is permitted on 6 trails within the Metropark. Skiing is also available on the Mill Creek Golf Course and the Par 3 Golf Course. Skiing equipment must be provided by visitors.

• Address: 7574 Columbiana-Canfield Rd, Canfield, Ohio 44406
• Phone: 330-702-3000 | Website | Facebook

Portage Park District

In Portage County, skiing is permitted on 8 of the trails that are within the park district. These trails are varied in length, from 1.9 miles to over 7 miles long. Visitors must bring their own ski equipment.

• Address: 705 Oakwood St. – Suite 4, Ravenna, Ohio 44266
• Phone: 330-297-7728 | Website | Facebook

Quail Hollow Park

Stark Parks offers cross-country skiing at Quail Hollow Park. A condition of this use is that the paths are covered with 3 to 4 inches of snow. In this location, equipment is available for rent. Classes are available in January and February.

• Address: 13480 Congress Lake Ave, Hartville, Ohio 44632
• Phone: 330-477-3552 | Website | Facebook

Summit MetroParks

In Summit County, skiing is permitted in 8 of the Metroparks. Skiing is also permitted at The Bike and Hike Trail, Freedom Trail, and Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. For these trails to be open, there must be a minimum of two inches of snow on the ground. There is no equipment hire available.

• Address: 975 Treaty Line Rd, Akron, Ohio 44313
• Phone: 330-865-8060 | Website | Facebook

Medina County Park District

In Medina County, Skiing is available at 14 different locations, provided there is enough snow on the ground. Visitors need to bring their own ski equipment.

• Address: 6364 Deerview Lane, Medina, Ohio 44256
• Phone: 330-722-9364 | Website | Facebook

Cross-Country Skiing at State Parks in Northeast Ohio

Many of the state parks in Ohio offer cross-country skiing when conditions allow. Here is a list of the state parks in northeast Ohio that allow skiing.

Cross-Country Skiing in Northwest Ohio

Toledo Metroparks

Toledo Metroparks tries to keep all trails clear for walkers, runners, and cyclists; however, all the trails are available for cross-country skiing when there is sufficient snow cover. Skiers are asked not to use natural areas such as meadows. There are two maintained cross-country skiing trails, one at Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, and one at Secor Metropark.

• Phone: 419-407-9700 | Website

Oak Openings Ski Trails

At Oak Openings Preserve Metropark there is a one-way loop cross-country ski trail that is a little over 3 miles long. Skiers can take the full loop or a shorter loop. A trail map is available online. Parking is at the Evergreen Lake area.

• Address: Evergreen Lake Trail, Whitehouse, Ohio 43571
• Phone: 419-407-9700 | Website | Facebook 

Secor Ski Trail

The ski trail here is 4.8 miles and goes through woodlands and along meadow edges. Skiers may spot wildlife such as rabbits, coyotes, squirrels, and deer. Parking is at the Secor Center parking lot.

• Address: 10001 W Central Ave, Berkey, Ohio 43504
• Phone: 419-407-9700 | Website

Cross-Country Skiing at State Parks in Northwest Ohio

A list of state parks in northwest Ohio that offer cross-country skiing:

Cross-Country Skiing in Central Ohio

Mt. Gilead State Park

There are six trails at Mt. Gilead State Park that are available for cross-country skiing when there is sufficient snow cover.

• Address: 4119 State Route 95, Mt. Gilead, Ohio 43338
• Phone: 419-946-1961 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article about Mt. Gilead State Park!

Alum Creek State Park

The 5-mile multi-purpose trail at Alum Creek State Park is available for cross-country skiing when there is enough snow cover.

• Address: 3615 S Old State Road, Delaware, Ohio 43015
• Phone: 740-548-4631 | Website

Glacier Ridge Metro Park

The 5-mile Savannah Trail at Glacier Ridge Metro Park is reserved for cross-country skiing when conditions allow.

• Address: 9801 Hyland-Croy Road, Plain City, Ohio 43064
• Phone: 614-216-8859 | Website | Facebook
• Check out our article on Glacier Ridge Metro Park!

Cross-Country Skiing at State Parks in Central Ohio

A couple of state parks are featured above. Here is a list of the others in central Ohio that offer cross-country skiing:

Cross-Country Skiing in Southeast Ohio

Paint Creek State Park

Paint Creek is in Bainbridge, Highland and Ross Counties. There are three hiking trails available for cross-country skiing when weather conditions allow.

• Address: 280 Taylor Road, Bainbridge, Ohio 45612
• Phone: 937-393-4284 | Website

Lake Hope State Park

There are eight hiking trails at Lake Hope State Park that are available for cross-country skiing in snowy conditions.

• Address: 27331 State Route 278, McArthur, Ohio 45651
• Phone: 740-596-4938 | Website

Strouds Run State Park

Miles of trails are available to cross-country skiers in winter conditions at Strouds Run State Park.

• Address: 11661 State Park Road, Athens, Ohio 45701
• Phone: 740-767-3570 | Website

Cross-Country Skiing at State Parks in Southeast Ohio

There are three state parks featured above, but there are a lot of state parks in southeast Ohio. Due to the rugged landscape, there are not too many that offer cross-country skiing in this region. Here is a list of the others that welcome cross-country skiers:

Cross-Country Skiing in Southwest Ohio

Great Parks of Hamilton County

Great Parks allow cross-country skiing everywhere except golf courses, conservation areas, and natural areas. There are 18 parks in this region.

• Address: 10245 Winton Road, Cincinnati, Ohio 45231
• Phone: 513-521-7275 | Website | Facebook

Cross-Country Skiing at State Parks in Southwest Ohio

Southwest Ohio has 13 state parks, nine offering winter cross-country skiing.

Let’s Go Cross-Country Skiing!

Do you have a favorite cross-country skiing trail, or maybe you know of one we didn’t include? Drop us a comment below and we can add it!

Check out our post about Ski Resorts In Ohio!

If you enjoy sporty adventures, why not try your hand at snorkeling at Gilboa Quarry?

Hello! We have done our very best to ensure that the accuracy of events, hours, addresses, etc, are up to date. Please know that information can change due to weather, updated health and safety challenges, etc. If you find incorrect information, please send us an email at team@visitohiotoday.com, and we can get it updated.

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