I grew up in Ohio, and as a Midwestern girl, I can tell you that there are tons of things the state of Ohio has to offer, specifically in my hometown of Cincinnati. I will be heading home (due to Hurricane Irma) and it had me thinking of all the exciting things I can't wait to do. Although Cincinnati has endless cool things to offer, there are seven stops I always make sure to make when I'm in town.

1. The Cincinnati Zoo

The Cincinnati Zoo is arguably one of the best zoos in the country, even before Fiona the hippo came along. With dozens of fascinating exhibits and a plethora of beautiful scenery, you can spend the whole day exploring this zoo. Located near the University of Cincinnati, the Cincinnati Zoo is in a neat location and has some unique hands-on experiences you'll want to try out, such as petting giant Galapagos Tortoises and going through the Spaulding Children's Zoo to hangout with some barn yard animals.

2. Jack Casino

Formerly known as the Horseshoe Casino, the Jack Casino is a great place to check out while in Cincinnati. With tons of tables, slots, and restaurants, you won't be bored during a night out to this casino. Want to keep the fun rolling? There are also plenty of great places surrounding the casino downtown.

3. The Cincinnati Art Museum

Besides the beautiful art pieces and exhibits, the Cincinnati Art Museum also offers many cool events and programs, such as a Story of Art tour and Studio Classes. If you're an artist yourself, are fascinated by art, or would like to take a stab at making your own art piece, this is the perfect stop during your stay in Cincinnati.

4. Fountain Square

Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati has a lot to offer. From free concerts to ice skating in the winter, there is always something happening in the square. And we can't forget about the surrounding bars and restaurants, such as Rock Bottom and Graeter's, which brings me to our next stop.

5. Graeter's Ice Cream

If you're from Cincinnati, or anywhere near Ohio and Kentucky, you're most likely a Graeter's fanatic. This isn't just regular old ice cream, this stuff is to die for. In fact, it's so good, that Graeter's has now launched nationwide in thousands of different supermarkets. Oprah even gave recognition to it and admitted to having it shipped to her in dry ice. This isn't a stop you'd want to miss.

6. Skyline Chili

Staying on the topic of food, because let's be honest, eating is a must when on vaca, Skyline Chili is nothing less of a Cincinnati favorite and pride. If you've never had chili on a hot dog or on spaghetti, Cincinnati is the place to do it.

Skyline has expanded rapidly through Ohio and surrounding states, and to be honest, this stuff is addicting. There's even a lone restaurant in Naples, Florida. However, nothing is as good as a hot plate of Skyline in it's birthplace of Cincinnati.

7. The Kenwood Towne Center

Many people hate the idea of shopping while on vacation, but if you live in Cincinnati, I'm going to guess you've been to the Kenwood Towne Center before. This mall is massive, and it has an eclectic selection of stores and dining options. I suggest hitting up Maggiano's, a magical Italian restaurant and favorite of mine located at the Kenwood Towne Center.

I hope this list helps if you ever find yourself in Cincinnati, Ohio. I could make a list of 100 things to do in Cincy, but I won't go on a tangent. If you've never been to Ohio, this should be your first stop. If not, make sure to check your nearby supermarket and pick up some Graeter's Ice Cream or Skyline Chili. You won't regret it.