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Cincinnati travel blogger Morgan Owens suggests destinations for end-of-summer adventures

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, September 8th 2025 at 16:32 GMT by Local 12 WKRC Cincinnati
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End‑Summer Escapes from Cincinnati: Morgan Owens’ Top Picks for Your Next Adventure

When the last golden rays of July fade and the first crisp whispers of September begin to stir, the city of Cincinnati’s travel scene is bursting with fresh possibilities. Local 12’s recent feature on travel blogger Morgan Owens spotlights exactly how to take advantage of that transition period – from short, refreshing day trips to longer weekend getaways that capture the best of the Midwest. Whether you’re a city dweller craving a quick palate of new experiences or a seasoned traveler looking for that next “bucket‑list” destination, Owens’ hand‑picked list delivers a diverse set of options that promise adventure, culture, and plenty of photo‑opportunities.

Who is Morgan Owens?

Morgan Owens is a self‑proclaimed “nomadic foodie” with a penchant for uncovering hidden gems in the Cincinnati region and beyond. She runs the popular blog “Miles & Maple,” where she posts a blend of travel guides, culinary reviews, and candid vignettes that capture the essence of each destination. Owens earned her reputation through a combination of in‑depth research, a keen eye for local flavor, and an infectious enthusiasm that turns ordinary road trips into unforgettable memories. In the article, she shares insights on why the end of summer is a perfect time for travel: milder weather, fewer crowds, and often discounted accommodations.

Morgan’s Curated Destinations for the “End‑Summer”

Below is a concise breakdown of the places Owens recommends, along with what makes each a must‑visit in September.

Note: The article includes direct links to the official websites for each attraction (e.g., the Cincinnati Zoo’s “Fall for the Zoo” page, the Indiana Dunes National Park calendar, and the National Museum’s “Family Day” event schedule). These links allow readers to plan visits and secure any necessary reservations or tickets.

1. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Owens describes the zoo as “a living museum where you can learn, laugh, and marvel all at once.” The “Plant Kingdom” exhibit—rich in color as the leaves begin their autumn transformation—provides a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. The article emphasizes the zoo’s “Fall for the Zoo” program, which includes special guided tours, seasonal dining options, and a Kids Fall Activity Pack. Visitors can even book a behind‑the‑scenes tour that offers a rare glimpse into animal care and conservation efforts.

2. Hocking Hills State Park

The park’s iconic Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave are highlighted in the feature for their dramatic rock formations. Owens recommends the Cedar Falls Loop for a moderate‑difficulty hike that showcases the park’s lush foliage at the start of the fall season. An insider tip from the article: arrive early to secure a picnic spot near the Reynolds Falls trail, and pack a thermos of hot cocoa—an unexpected treat in the woods.

3. Indiana Dunes National Park

With the Indiana Dunes being a 12‑mile stretch of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan, Owens underscores the park’s “Dune Fest”, a series of live music performances and art installations that typically run through the first week of October. The article also notes that the Dune Discovery Trail becomes particularly picturesque with late‑summer breezes, allowing travelers to enjoy the beach without the scorching heat of July.

4. Put‑in‑Bay (Lake Erie Islands)

The article takes a quick detour to the Lake Erie Islands, pointing out that Put‑in‑Bay is still vibrant in September. Travelers can book a boat cruise from Huron (Ohio) that runs until early October. The island’s famous “Blue Streak” sunset—visible from the island’s waterfront—offers a dramatic backdrop for any Instagram-worthy moment.

5. Louisville, KY

Morgan stresses that Louisville is a “short‑drive but endless‑experiences” destination. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail still has its peak touring season, and the city’s “Taste of Louisville” food festival is scheduled for mid‑September, giving culinary adventurers the best of both worlds. Owens also hints at the city’s Historic Old Louisville architecture and the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory for baseball fans.

6. Dayton’s National Museum of the United States Air Force

This often‑overlooked gem offers a hands‑on experience that “feels like a sci‑fi movie.” Owens encourages visitors to book a Flight Simulation Experience to see what it’s like to pilot a fighter jet. The museum’s “Family Day” event, held every first Saturday in September, includes interactive exhibits for kids.

7. Nashville, Tennessee

While a bit further afield, Nashville is highlighted for its enduring music scene and the chance to catch a live show during the cooler weather. Owens notes that the Country Music Hall of Fame offers a “Night Out” exhibit in September that showcases memorabilia from the 1960s to the present, perfect for history buffs and music lovers alike.

Practical Tips from Morgan

Beyond the destination list, Owens shares several practical pieces of advice that elevate any end‑summer trip:

1. Book Early, But Not Too Early – September is a sweet spot for accommodations: many hotels drop prices after the July‑August peak, yet still fill fast enough to justify early bookings.
2. Pack Layered Clothing – Daytime temperatures can range from 70°F to 80°F, but evenings often dip into the 50s.
3. Look for “Fall‑Ready” Events – Many parks and museums schedule special programs during this period, which often come with reduced admission or free entry for children.
4. Enjoy Local Food Markets – Local farmers’ markets are in full swing, offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and early‑season pumpkin pies.
5. Plan for Traffic – The article highlights major highways (I‑75, I‑71, and I‑74) and advises early morning starts to avoid rush hour congestion, especially when heading to popular spots like the Cincinnati Zoo or Hocking Hills.

Final Thoughts

Morgan Owens’ article from Local12’s Arc‑Cincinnati section paints a vivid picture of how the end of summer in Cincinnati is a golden time for exploration. From lush parks to historic museums, from bustling bourbon tours to serene beach sunsets, the destinations listed are tailored to both locals and visitors. The piece is more than a simple list; it’s a curated guide filled with personal anecdotes, insider tips, and handy links that allow readers to dive deeper into each attraction.

If you’re looking to make the most of September’s mild climate and the gentle transition toward fall, Morgan Owens’ recommendations provide a roadmap for memorable adventures that showcase the best of Cincinnati and its surrounding regions. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a weekend wanderer, the end‑summer is the perfect season to start a new journey—and Morgan’s guide ensures you’ll start it right.