Yellow Springs (Ohio)

Introduction

In the midst of cornfields and seas of soy beans, there is a tiny gem in southwest Ohio called Yellow Springs. Between Cincinnati and Columbus is a village that attracts tourists and idealists from around the country. The train tracks--now a lovely rails-to-trails bike path--once ran passed the resort and educational community of Yellow Springs, but now the easiest way into town is sadly by car. A haven for hippies and various forms of alternative culture, the village is diverse and accepting; a family of sorts.

A charming village to walk around on a drive through, or the sort of place to spend a happy retirement, the unusually liberal town (for Ohio) is home to Republican Senator Mike DeWine (and many generations of DeWines before him). Yellow Springs is also proud to be the home of "The Father of American Education," education reformer and Congressman Horace Mann, children's author Virginia Hamilton, musicians Cindy Blackman and Richie Furay, blogger Jorn Barger, "Twilight Zone" creator Rod Sterling, and of course comedian Dave Chappelle!

The town is a major tourist destination in southwest Ohio, especially in the summer months and during the two annual Street Fairs - see details at http://www.yellowspringsohio.org/. YSI is the largest employer in Yellow Springs. Antioch College was closed in 2008 but is now in the process of reopening (expected in 2011). http://antiochcollege.org/

History

Indigenous peoples have been making their way to the yellow springs of Yellow Springs for the healing benefits of the iron-rich waters since people first arrived on the North American continent.

The village was founded in 1825 as what would today be called an intentional community or commune, but what the founding families intended as a utopia. Human imperfection led to the demise of that dream, but the Underground Railroad brought new hope to town in the form of escaped slaves, including Wheeling Gaunt (after whom Gaunt Park is named).

Inspired by the indigenous peoples' legends surrounding the Yellow Springs, in the mid nineteenth century some white businessmen marketed the village as a resort spa. The Little Miami Railroad brought flocks of tourists to enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and healing properties of the springs.

Sights and Activities

• Antioch College is a good liberal arts college with a nice campus
• Glen Helen
• Young's Jersey Dairy is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the state, with delicious ice cream, "utters & putters" mini-golf, batting cages, driving range, petting zoo and more.
• Biking - good biking can be found in the area around the town
• Canoeing is a great activity on the rivers and streams near town.

Events and Festivals

Getting There

By Plane

The closest airport is Dayton International Airport.

By Train

Once upon a time...but no more.

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

There's canoeing on the nearby Little Miami River, but that won't get you into town. Legend has it though, that a DeWine forefather once made his way in a hand-made boat from Yellow Springs all the way down to New Orleans.

Getting Around

By Car

There's no sense trying to get around town in a car, since everything is in walking distance. So park that rinky-dink piece of metal & plastic, and enjoy the town out in the fresh air!

By Public Transport

Sadly, there is none.

By Foot

By Bike

There are several places to rent bikes in Yellow Springs and beyond. Check out Bike Shops in Miami Valley for more info.

Eat

• The Winds is The finest restaurant in town
• Sunrise Cafe offers gourmet diner-style meals and great pies with a charming and relaxed atmosphere.
• Ha Ha Pizza is on Xenia Avenue (Main Street), across from the Caboose.
• The Emporium is certainly a good to spot some locals at and don't miss out on their yummy soups and amazing muffins.

Drink

• Dino's Cappuccinos is one of the best coffee shop in south-western Ohio.

• Ye Olde Trail Tavern and the Gulch on Dayton St are great if you like skizzy bars.

Sleep

Budget

• The Spring's Motel has tried to clean up their act in the past few years, cutting down the tall hedges that used to block the cars in their parking lot from view. Now everyone can see who's rented a room for a few hours to cheat on their spouse.

Mid-Range

The most luxurious places to stay in Yellow Springs are the

• Arthur Morgan House B&B, right downtown, and
• The Grinnell Mill Bed & Breakfast‎.
• Yellow Springs Country Bed & Breakfast‎ - If you're willing to stay further out this is a very nice bed and breakfast.

Upscale

Keep Connected

Internet

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

Post

The US Postal Service is very good and well priced mail system. There are post offices in every small and large town for sending packages internationally or domestically. If wanting to send a letter or postcard it is best just to leave it in a blue mail box with the proper postage. There are also private postal services like FedEx, UPS and DHL.