Love it Like a Local: Lebanon
Blog by Mary Fessler
“Ohio’s Largest Playground®” isn’t just a slogan. The multitude of attractions, local dining options, unique shopping opportunities, and affordable accommodations give us the right to be called just that. We truly do have more to do in a 30-mile radius than anywhere else in the state. And, we are just a one day’s drive away for more than ½ of North America! So we know why people visit, but what keeps them coming back? We think it’s our tourism all-stars – those people who love to welcome visitors to our area. So we decided to find out what they love about Warren County.
Our first “all-star” is De-De Bailey, Group Event Coordinator at the Golden Lamb Restaurant & Hotel. The Golden Lamb is recognized as the oldest continuously operating business in the State of Ohio. The brick building where the Golden Lamb moved to — and currently resides — was built in 1815. Because of its convenient location between Cincinnati and the National Road (U.S. 40), many prominent politicians and authors made stops here — from Charles Dickens and Samuel Clemens to Presidents Harding, Garfield, McKinley, and more. Today, it remains a popular destination for locals and travelers alike. De-De has been with the Golden Lamb for nearly 40 years, beginning her career as a hostess while still in high school. During her college days, she worked the front desk cashier position. Roles as dining room supervisor, server, Banquet Coordinator, and Assistant General Manager followed. It is safe to say that De-De has encountered a lot of visitors and is, quite often, their first impression of Warren County. It is also safe to say, that she gets asked quite a variety of questions. So, we had a few of our own:
Where is your favorite place to relax in Warren County?
I enjoy an evening at La Comedia Dinner Theater (where cell phones must be turned off!). I also enjoy strolling around Waynesville and visiting the shops, and having lunch on the porch at Hammel House. And every now and again, I enjoy trying my luck and watching horses at Miami Valley Gaming. Valley Vineyards is also on top of my list to spend time relaxing.
Where is your favorite place for fun or adventure in Warren County?
It’s a toss-up between Ozone Zipline Adventures, Kings Island, and Morgan’s Outdoor Adventures.
Where do you send friends/family when they visit (besides Golden Lamb)?
For “dining”, all my family/friends have to have Frisch’s, Skyline Chili, and Marion’s Piazza while visiting. For fun and adventure, I send them to Kings Island, Miami Valley Gaming, Valley Vineyards, La Comedia, Ozone, Caesar Creek State Park, and Morgan’s. I recommend all the museums — Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve, Harmon Museum, Museum at the Friends Home, Glendower — for student and tour groups.
What do you think makes Warren County unique?
Warren County is special because it has a very unique “small town” friendly feel. We are blessed to experience four seasons and have a great location. Warren County has something for everyone all year long!
