🍷 Ohio Wine Country Is Only A Day Trip Away

Plus: 🐻 Black Bear Caught On Camera Near Pataskala

Author

Chelsea Wiley
June 12, 2025

Sponsored by North Market 🍴
North Market is calling your name! Whether you're exploring the original downtown location for its classic market charm or the Bridge Park spot in Dublin for a modern twist, there's no better place to eat, shop, and discover the best of Columbus. For more info, head over to northmarket.org.

Hello, Thursday! Chelsea here.

Ohio may be known for cornfields and buckeyes, but tucked along Lake Erie is a lush, rolling region that might just make you say, "Napa who?" Welcome to Ohio wine country! Yes, it exists, and yes, it’s fantastic. From sipping award-winning vintages in sun-soaked vineyards to exploring charming towns and hidden beaches, the Grand River Valley is a surprisingly dreamy weekend getaway. Whether you’re a wine snob or just in it for the views and vibes, this is one Ohio adventure worth toasting to.

🐻 Surprise Visitor: Black Bear Caught On Camera Near Pataskala
For the first time in two decades, a black bear was spotted in Licking County! These furry (but wild) friends are endangered in Ohio, so every sighting is meaningful for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

😷 Unhealthy Air Expected In Central Ohio, Especially For Sensitive Groups
Air’s looking a little rough today. Central Ohio is under an Air Quality Alert, with pollution levels expected to impact sensitive groups. If you’ve got asthma or breathing issues, maybe skip the jog.

Headlines 📰 

🏘️ A once a sleepy small town with more empty storefronts than open ones, Bellefontaine has quietly transformed into ‘Ohio’s most loveable downtown’. It’s got boutique shops, craft beer spots, rainbow-colored buildings, and even axe throwing. It’s quite the transformation. (NBC4)

⚠️ A chemical leak at the Austin Powder plant near Zaleski prompted an evacuation Wednesday after nitrogen oxide gas was released into the air. The leak has been stopped, the evacuation order is lifted, and no injuries were reported. Officials are continuing to monitor the area and test for any environmental impact. (WOUB)

🏳️‍🌈 Heading to Stonewall Columbus Pride this Saturday? Heads up: several downtown streets will be closed for the parade from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., so plan ahead! (FOX28)

☀️ Weather: 89 and mostly sunny

Sponsored by Columbus Recreation and Parks 🎶
Columbus Recreation and Parks Department and the Columbus Symphony Orchestra partner to bring you Sundays With The Symphony! This free concert features the full Columbus Symphony performing familiar classical pieces, movie soundtracks and popular favorites at Bicentennial Park! Come spend your Sunday evening with the Columbus Symphony along Columbus’ Scioto Mile. For more info, click here.

Coming Up 📆

Today's Photo 🤳

😍 Have a fantastic Thursday, Columbus!

Want your photo to be featured? Use #columbusnavigator or tag us!

Have a hot tip? Interested in advertising options? Hit that reply button - we love mail. 💌📭

- Chelsea