My husband, Ray, and son, Andrew, and I took a four-day trip to Cincinnati in early March. It was unseasonably warm and uncrowded.
We went to the Cincinnati Zoo and were able to really spend time viewing the animals because of the lack of crowds. White lions were there for a special exhibit. The apes are always fascinating to watch, but I must admit I observe with a tinge of sadness. They are so human-like. The zoo also has a 3-D movie theater, which is billed as a "4-D" experience with environmental sounds. I always think those are fun.
The next day, we went to an area which is actually in Kentucky. It's called Newport on the Levee, just across the Ohio River. There is a wonderful aquarium (Newport Aquarium) there. The shark petting tank is always a hit. When Andrew was 4 years old, he was a shark freak, and he knew all the different types. He still likes sharks, and this exhibit is as popular with adults as with kids.
Of course the shark tunnel is a magnet. Sharks and rays, and sometimes divers, can be found in there. In the tropical exhibit, some colorful little birds took a shine to Andrew. But when they decided to take a nibble too, he became a bit less thrilled with them. There is a great jellyfish exhibit; be sure to note the central lighting fixture in that area, if you go.
Finally, on to the Cincinnati Museum of Natural History and Science. The building itself is quite impressive. Be sure to notice the beautiful mosaic murals on the walls in the main entry area. There is an IMAX theater (I love those) which was showing a human body film, to tie in with the human body exhibit that was there at the time.
A stop at Jungle Jim's on the way home completed the trip. If you are any kind of "foodie," you should get to this international food market sometime. It gives a whole new meaning to grocery stores.
Click HERE to view a slideshow of creatures and critters found on the Scholes' trip.
Submitted by Jill Scholes of Findlay
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