Nicknamed the Buckeye State, Ohio offers a surprising variety of experiences—from vibrant cities and amusement parks to charming small towns and natural escapes. Whether you're planning a family-friendly getaway or a cultural road trip, this guide covers the best places to visit in Ohio.
Where is Ohio?
📍 Location: Midwestern United States
🌆 Major Cities: Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Dayton
🏞️ Bordering States: Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan
🔗 Visit Ohio Tourism
🌆 Major Cities: Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Dayton
🏞️ Bordering States: Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Michigan
🔗 Visit Ohio Tourism
Best Time to Visit Ohio
🌸 Spring (March-May): Great for flowers, parks, and baseball season openers.
☀️ Summer (June-August): Ideal for festivals, Cedar Point, and lake trips.
🍂 Fall (September-November): Best for autumn foliage, pumpkin patches, and scenic drives.
❄️ Winter (December-February): Perfect for holiday lights, skiing, and cozy cabin getaways.
☀️ Summer (June-August): Ideal for festivals, Cedar Point, and lake trips.
🍂 Fall (September-November): Best for autumn foliage, pumpkin patches, and scenic drives.
❄️ Winter (December-February): Perfect for holiday lights, skiing, and cozy cabin getaways.
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Top Attractions & Destinations in Ohio
1. Columbus – The State Capital
Columbus is a lively, youthful city known for sports, shopping, and innovation.
🏙️ Best Things to Do in Columbus:
- Explore the Short North Arts District – Packed with galleries, restaurants, and boutiques.
- Visit the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium – Consistently ranked one of the best in the nation.
- Tour Ohio State University – One of the largest college campuses in the U.S..
📍 Location: Central Ohio
🔗 Visit Columbus
🔗 Visit Columbus
2. Cleveland – Lakefront Culture & Rock 'n' Roll
Cleveland offers a mix of lake views, museums, and music history.
🎸 Top Attractions in Cleveland:
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame – A must-see for music lovers.
- Cleveland Museum of Art – Features free admission and world-class collections.
- West Side Market – A historic market with global food vendors.
📍 Location: Northern Ohio (Lake Erie shoreline)
🔗 Visit Cleveland
🔗 Visit Cleveland
3. Cincinnati – Riverfront Beauty & Skyline Chili
Cincinnati is a city of historic charm, sports pride, and artsy flair.
🌉 Things to Do in Cincinnati:
- Stroll the Cincinnati Riverwalk (Smale Riverfront Park) – A beautiful space with fountains and gardens.
- See the Cincinnati Zoo – One of the oldest zoos in the U.S..
- Catch a Reds or Bengals game – Cheer on iconic sports teams.
📍 Location: Southwestern Ohio
🔗 Visit Cincinnati
🔗 Visit Cincinnati
4. Hocking Hills – Ohio’s Natural Playground
Hocking Hills is full of waterfalls, caves, and scenic hiking trails.
🌲 Top Things to Do in Hocking Hills:
- Hike to Old Man’s Cave & Ash Cave – Spectacular geological formations and waterfalls.
- Stay in a Cabin or Yurt – Great for romantic or family getaways.
- Try Ziplining or Rock Climbing – Popular for adventure seekers.
📍 Location: Southeastern Ohio
🔗 Visit Hocking Hills
🔗 Visit Hocking Hills
5. Cedar Point – The Roller Coaster Capital of the World
Located on a Lake Erie peninsula, Cedar Point is one of the top amusement parks in the world.
🎢 Best Things to Do at Cedar Point:
- Ride Millennium Force & Steel Vengeance – Record-breaking thrill rides.
- Relax on the Beach – Adjacent to the park’s lakefront area.
- Stay at Hotel Breakers – A classic resort with early park access.
📍 Location: Sandusky, Northern Ohio
🔗 Visit Cedar Point
🔗 Visit Cedar Point
Best Outdoor Adventures in Ohio
🚴 Bike the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail – Stretching through forests and river valleys.
🛶 Paddle the Little Miami River – A scenic waterway perfect for kayaking and tubing.
🏕️ Camp in Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Ohio’s only national park between Cleveland and Akron.
🎣 Fish at Lake Erie – Known for walleye, perch, and sunset views.
🛶 Paddle the Little Miami River – A scenic waterway perfect for kayaking and tubing.
🏕️ Camp in Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Ohio’s only national park between Cleveland and Akron.
🎣 Fish at Lake Erie – Known for walleye, perch, and sunset views.
Where to Stay in Ohio
🏨 Luxury Hotels & Unique Stays:
- 21c Museum Hotel (Cincinnati) – A boutique hotel with an art gallery vibe.
- Hotel LeVeque (Columbus) – A historic skyscraper hotel downtown.
🏕️ Best Cabins & Campgrounds:
- Hocking Hills State Park Cabins – Ideal for nature lovers and stargazing.
- Maumee Bay State Park Lodge – On Lake Erie with cabins, golf, and trails.
Tips for Visiting Ohio
✅ Check Event Calendars – Ohio hosts year-round festivals from music to food.
✅ Layer Up for Changing Weather – Weather can vary greatly by region and season.
✅ Embrace Local Cuisine – Try pierogies in Cleveland, chili in Cincinnati, and Amish pies in Holmes County.
✅ Explore Small Towns – Visit places like Yellow Springs or Marietta for charm and character.
✅ Layer Up for Changing Weather – Weather can vary greatly by region and season.
✅ Embrace Local Cuisine – Try pierogies in Cleveland, chili in Cincinnati, and Amish pies in Holmes County.
✅ Explore Small Towns – Visit places like Yellow Springs or Marietta for charm and character.
Nearby Travel Destinations
If you’re visiting Ohio, consider exploring these neighboring states:
- Michigan – Take a trip to Detroit, Ann Arbor, or the Great Lakes.
- Pennsylvania – Explore Pittsburgh or Presque Isle State Park.
- Indiana – Visit Indianapolis or Amish Country in northern Indiana.
Final Thoughts
From urban adventures in Columbus and Cleveland to natural beauty in Hocking Hills and Lake Erie, Ohio has something for everyone. Whether you're riding a roller coaster, walking through museums, or hiking a waterfall trail, the Buckeye State makes for an unforgettable getaway.
For more Midwest inspiration, check out our Michigan Travel Guide and Indiana Travel Guide.