After the popularity of Alpha-Trips, our quick trips in and around the area, I thought it was time to up the ante and give you a whiz-bang twosome.

Here are some ideas for the following areas, that you can do in a day:

Letter X: Xenia

For anyone that has lived in the Dayton area long-term, you may be thinking, there are things to do and see in Xenia? Seriously? And the surprising answer is yes. Known around the US as the city that begins with an ‘X’, is truly marks the spot for some unknown excitement and fun food. Xenia has long been marked as the home of the tornado, a twister they can’t seem to shake. But there is much more to this little burg that awaits you!

Head over for the history, and there is plenty of it. Check out the Greene County Historical Society, which is basically comprised of three buildings.You will find an old cabin there, the Galloway, which was relocated to the city itself and answers many of the questions about the great chief Tecumseh and his friendship with the family.I have long been obsessed with Tecumseh and his desire to save his Native Families in the area. The guides in the cabin have a multitude of answers to your questions. Many artifacts and historical items await you at the Galloway.

Next, you will find the Victorian Town House, which is chock full of antiques and memorabilia from the best of days in Xenia. Preserved beautifully and presented well, its a fun trip down memory lane. Lastly, a brick building housing more Greene County historic items, as well as a slew of pictures of the infamous tornado completes the history lesson perfectly.

After getting your lesson, grab a bike, as Xenia’s bikeways (Greene Way Bike Trails)are considered by many the ‘best in Ohio.’ You can ride this mostly flat, gorgeous stretch for miles. Recommended is the trip from Spring Valley to Yellow Springs. Xenia’s stretch, is NOT to be missed as the trail follows tree covered spaces and a soft rolling stream (the Little Miami) that eventually forms Clifton Gorge and John Bryan.

So, now you are hungry….and I have to say it, go to Nick’s.

If you have read my articles previously, you know I aim for the fancy, but Nicks’s does the bar food thing perfectly. Grab a Menage’a’Trois (sandwich that is) or the Sexy Club (again a sandwich). Both are sure to please. Add in some wings (chick’s strippers) and fries….and since you’ve been biking, grab aan ice cold Great Lakes draft. It’s fun and it’s definitely satisfying. Overall: ‘X’tremely interesting history and great recreation in Xenia!

Letter N: New Carlisle

How many times have you seen the sign for New Carlisle on 70 and thought ‘wonder what’s up there?’ A lot actually! Head into town early and stop at the ‘World-Famous’ Mel-o-Dee restaurant. The Mel-O-Dee has been revived since its close encounter with a funnel cloud recently, but from the ashes, the same delicious food we all know and love. For breakfast, you will hear people oinking about the Mel-O-Dee Chops and Eggs, a center cut chop with two eggs. I have long though they have great coffee, and still am trying to figure out what brand it is.

They do lunch and dinner well too!
Off you go to find some bourbon. BOURBON? Yep, that’s right. New Carlisle is home to the Indian Creek Distillery.

The tiny family-owned business is perfect for touring, and taking in the beautiful setting. It’s literally like a postcard, it is so picturesque. There is a great history of the land, how the distillery got started and it’s ‘best kept secret’ status revealed. Great visit for all…check it out!

Stop in Penny Lane for a quick coffee. It’s a cute. quaint, quintessential coffee and tea shop. They make a great latte, and the service is on-point!

Then what, you ask?

New Carlisle is home to MVG, Meadow View Growers, many put it at the top of the ‘Greenhouse’ lists in the area. Check out the big chair for photos, and make sure you say hi to the goats. MVG is more than just plants, its a destination at this point. For serious gardeners, you will find an extensive number of exotics…I bought 3 of the Flamingo plants!!

A little more food or beer maybe? Ok….571 Grill House is your spot! They have 17 beers on draft, or did at this writing, and some really yummy food. One thing that will floor you is the great atmosphere here. You certainly see why it’s a treasure for New Carlisle. We had a relaxing visit, sharing stories, beers and great wings. The service was sweet, and informative about the draft choices, and menu options. Overall: New Carlisle mixes it up for newbies to their town…it’s nice, new and nostalgic.