Midwest as we uncover the best things to do in Ohio! From heart-stopping roller coasters to serene botanical gardens, Ohio is a treasure trove of surprises waiting to be explored. Join us for a laughter-filled, informative ride through the Buckeye State – because, trust us, Ohio is anything but ordinary! Fellow adventurers! Get ready to embark on an epic journey through the heart of the
Cedar Point Amusement Park: The Roller Coaster Capital of the World
Cedar Point is an amusement park located in Sandusky, Ohio. This is a thrill seekers’ paradise, brace yourself for heart-pounding rides and world-record coasters. Whats’s more, this is where you will experience the thrill of roller coasters with a lakeside view. Cedar Point operates from early May until Labor Day in September. Then it is followed by weekend-only operation through Halloween during an annual event known as HalloWeekends.Â
There are other amenities and attractions featured within the park such as an outdoor water park and indoor water park, n two marinas, an outdoor sports complex center and a one-mile-long beach. As well as the only park with roller coasters in all four height classifications. I recommend staying at Hotel Breakers to enjoy the beach and a lot of activities. Also, you can catch a ferry to Put-in-bay from Cedar Point Marina which is another must-visit place in Ohio.
Rock On at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Dive into the history of rock with interactive exhibits. The museum of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is located in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. The museum showcases the history of rock music ,the artists, writers, producers, engineers, and other notable figures. It has seven levels that includes a stage that the museum uses for various special performances. Several interactive kiosks, and also feature large temporary exhibits. Therefore, plan to spend more than 1 hour here because there are a lot of things to do. The entrance fee. However, there are special discounts for military, students, and North Ohio residents
Cleveland Brewery Passport
Do you like beer and like to visit breweries? Then Cleveland Ohio is a place to be, Sip your way through local breweries by getting a Cleveland Brewery Passport. You may ask what is Cleveland Brewery Passport, this is a program from destination Cleveland, that encourages visits to Greater Cleveland Breweries. The program is free and there is a list of participating locations. All you need to do is sign up at destination Cleveland, you get a text, and good to go. And guess what? The more check-ins you track in your mobile passport, the closer you get to earning a prize!
Columbus Zoo and AquariumÂ
If you are looking for a Wild Day Out and want to explore wildlife in Ohio, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a place to go. The Columbus Zoo is home to more than 7,000 animals representing over 800 species. The Zoo is divided into regions such as Heart of Africa, Asia Quest, North America, and many more.
Each region houses animals from a particular region of the world. In 2009, the Columbus Zoo was named by the USA Travel Guide as the number one zoo in the United States. It was also ranked number one best zoo in 2012 by Besties Reader’s Choice. The Columbus Zoo also owns Zoombezi Bay which is a water park. A trip to Columbus Zoo will make you busy because you can choose to go to the Zoombezi Bay which not far from the zoo.
Cincinnati Museum Center.
Dive into history with interactive displays at Cincinnati Museum Center. The Cincinnati Museum Center is a museum complex located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Home to 5 organizations, Cincinnati History Museum, Museum of Natural History & Science, Robert D. Lindner Family Omnimax Theater, Cincinnati History Library and Archives, and Duke Energy Children’s Museum..
The Cincinnati Museum Center is must must-visit place in Ohio. Because there are lot to see and be entertained. Explore the skeletons and fossils, from the Galeamopus, Daspletosaurus, and Torvosaurus genera in the Museum of Natural History & Science. There are many more exhibits, so, make sure you have time to spend while you are there.
Franklin Park Conservatory: Botanical Gardens Beauty:Â
Immerse yourself in the lush greenery of Franklin Park Conservatory. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is located in Columbus, Ohio. This place is one of the botanical gardens that has Dale Chihuly’s artwork, and its the largest private Chihuly collection in a botanical garden. The Chihuly Collection is on permanent display and it is included in admission. The Franklin Park Conservatory brings people and plants together, it offers numerous natural experiences for all ages to enjoy.Â
Hocking Hills State Park: Nature’s Playground
Lace-up your boots for miles of trails and scenic views at Hocking Hills State Park. Located in Logan, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is stunning in every season, Hocking Hills features beautiful towering cliffs and thrilling waterfalls. Has stunning ice formations in winter, wildflowers garnishing the forest floor in springtime, and glowing foliage in the fall. This place is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers because they have plenty to enjoy in this beautiful inspiring park.Â
The park has a full-service resort lodge and Conference Center that offers full-service restaurant, fitness room, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The Lodge and Cabins reservations are made through the contracted management company Great Ohio Lodges. However ,that is not only accommodation available at the park, there are many privately owned cabins and hotels in the area. Also, there are more than 100 campsites that come with full hookup and electric campsites.
There are a lot of activities to do there such as canoeing and kayaking. Boating and rafting , Rock Climbing and Rappelling, swimming, hunting, and fishing. Bird Watching, Archery, Air Tours: Horseback Riding, Train Rides, Canopy Tours, and Astronomy
Lake Erie: Beach Vibes and Island Adventures
One might wonder if is there a beach in Ohio. Well, despite being far away from the closest ocean, Ohio has a variety of great beaches perfect for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and relaxing in the sand. If you are in Ohio and and want to experience midwest beaches, then stop by the Lake Erie beaches in Ohio which offer some of the most beautiful sightseeing opportunities in the state. Explore history with a scenic view of Lake Erie and take a ferry to Put-in-Bay for a small-town island adventure.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad:Â
Take a historic train ride through the valley with the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is a tourist excursion railway located in Penisula, Ohio. It provides event excursions year-round. There are different ride experiences such as two-hour ride to see the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Dinner on the train, for an unforgettable evening of romance, luxury, and fine dining, enjoy an exquisite four-course meal, prepared by an Executive Chef.
The adventure with Grape Escape, this a beautiful ride through the picturesque Cuyahoga Valley National Park. while enjoying 4 exquisite wine varieties. Another is the family fun loop where you can explore the wonders of nature and the fascinating world of railroads through different interactive learning experiences, such as playing games that ignite imagination to unleash creativity.Â
Murder Mystery Excursion is the ultimate interactive experience onboard a train. Where you play detective and uncover clues, interrogate suspects, and solve the thrilling crime that unfolds before your eyes. The Night on the Train experience this unforgettable night filled with excitement, creativity, and relaxation. Cocktail on rails, this is the only excursion that has age restrictions of 21 and above. The name of the excursion explained why there are restrictions. During the ride, they would be serving a variety of spirits and cocktails accompanied by appetizers.
Toledo Museum of Art: Marvel at world-class art collections.
  The Toledo Museum of Art is a well-known art museum located in Toledo, Ohio. The Toledo Museum of Art has a collection of some 30,000 works of art and is regarded as one of the finest art museums in the United States. The Museum also has over 40 galleries across its expansive campus, which includes the Georgia and David K. Welles Sculpture Garden and the Glass Pavilion dedicated to one of the most renowned collections of glass in the world. The Toledo Museum of Art provides learning and education opportunities. They provide youth classes, artist workshops, and artist residencies. There are other learning opportunities that the museum provides through different methods such as tours, glassblowing demonstrations, and their popular Family Center.
Amish Country: Unique Experiences in Ohio’s Small Towns
Step into a simpler time with a visit to Amish communities, this is part of the unique experiences in Ohio’s Small Towns. Ohio’s Amish Country in Ohio is known for being the largest Amish community in the world. There is a lot to see here in the Amish community such as a culture tour which is the best. In the culture tour you will get an opportunity to learn about the lifestyle of local Amish, and also the opportunities to meet locals, ask questions, sample traditional delights, and experience the way of life here. Also, you can shop around where they sell their homemade products such as cheese, pastries, furniture, etc.
The West Side Market: Culinary Delights
The West Side Market is a foodie’s Paradise. Indulge in diverse culinary offerings at the market. The West Side Market is the oldest operating indoor/outdoor market space located in Cleveland, Ohio, and it is the oldest publicly owned market.Â
The market is home to over 100 vendors of great ethnic diversity. Here you will find fine meats and fresh vegetables, fresh seafood, baked goods, dairy and cheese products, and even fresh flowers. Some vendors sell ready-to-eat foods, herbs, candy, and nuts. The market became more popular after appearing in television programs produced by the Travel Channel and Food Network.
National Underground Railroad Freedom Center: History Unveiled
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a museum in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio, based on the history of the Underground Railroad. Explore the history of the Underground Railroad through educational programs, and engage in enlightening programs and interactions. There are also interactive displays that will immerse you in the stories of freedom and resilience. At the end of the visit, you will learn more and have an understanding of why is called the Underground Railroad and is not what you were thinking. I guarantee you the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a place worth visiting.
Kings Island: Amusement Park Extravaganza
Stop by another famous amusement park in Ohio, Kings Island. Kings Island is located in Mason, Ohio not far from Cincinnati, that’s why people are confused about the park being in Cincinnati. Kings Island is divided into eight themed sections and operates seasonally from early spring through Labor Day followed by two additional holiday-themed events known as Halloween Haunt and Winterfest.Â
King Island ranks third in attendance among seasonal amusement parks in North America and has won Golden Ticket Awards in the annual publication from Amusement Today, including Best Kids’ Area in the world for eighteen consecutive years. The park is home to famous rides The Beast and Banshee that have set enduring world records. From the big thrills of roller coasters like Orion, Diamondback, and The Beast to family rides, Cargo Loco and Sol Spin, or little thrills of our kiddie rides in Planet Snoopy, Kings Island has the kind of fun you are looking for in a place where fun never ends! The bonus is the park has 36 water slides, two wave pools, rushing rivers, and relaxing lagoons. The best part is these are included with your Kings Island admission.Â
Cleveland Museum of Natural History: Science and Exploration
Located close to downtown Cleveland, Ohio, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History has diverse exhibits that you will learn about natural history through engaging displays. Explore exhibits, meet wild animals, take a hike, and join classes or programs catering to all ages and interests while creating meaningful memories.Â
When visiting the Museum, you’ll have the opportunity to delve deep into the past in Dinosaur Hall. Here you will discover the outer reaches of the Universe through astronomy programs, and experience natural wonders in outdoor galleries. Also, you can explore the cosmos with captivating planetarium shows
The Wilds: Safari Adventure in Ohio
Experience a unique safari adventure in Ohio at the Wilds. The Wilds is the largest wildlife conservation center and is one of the largest conservation centers in the world at 10,000+ acres located in Cumberland, OH. The wilds are open seasonally not year-round usually around May to October. There are several tours at The Wilds there are 9 of them. Such as birding tours, open-air safaris, wildlife safaris, and many more, each experience and tour at The Wilds will be unique. You will also get an opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation initiatives and get close to exotic animals in a natural setting.
National Museum of the U.S Air Force
The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is the official museum of the United States Air Force located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio. This is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. The museum is the main tourist attraction in Ohio that you don’t want to miss. It’s free admission and parking and features more than 350 aerospace vehicles and missiles and thousands of artifacts many rare and one-of-a-kind along with thousands of historical items. Here you will also learn the history of the Wright brothers and aviation history.
The museum has galleries presenting military aviation history. There are World War I galleries, Korean War galleries Cold War galleries, and many more. In the galleries, you will see the aircraft that was used during those eras, and learn the stories about military men, Sgt, etc.Â
There is also a presidential gallery because the U.S Air Force flies the President . Explore the presidential gallery where you will see the Air Force One that was used by President John F Kennedy. This is the same aircraft used to carry his body from Dallas to Washington DC. Its the same aircraft that President Lyndon Jackson’s inauguration took place. Also, there are memorabilia items were used with presidents such as playing cards and plates that were used in Obama’s administration.The menu and plates from Trump administration, and a shaver that was used with George H.W Bush. There are tours provided in the museum some of them with the museum’s staff and others are self-guided tours.
Columbus’ Short North Arts District: Arts and Culture Hub
The Columbus Short North district also known as The Short North by locals, is a neighborhood in Columbus, Ohio. Also, known as hippie, offbeat, and trendy .The Short North is populated with art galleries, specialty shops, pubs, nightclubs, and coffee shops. There are so many things to see, explore, experience, and discover in the Short North Arts District. Such as comedy clubs, bars, restaurants, art galleries and live entertainment. There are events every weekend in the district, one famous event is gallery hop which happens every first Saturday of the month rain or shine. Here is your opportunity to Immerse yourself in a vibrant art scene with numerous galleries. Explore unique boutiques and shops in the district and enjoy live performances and events in the cultural hub.
Kalahari Resorts: Indoor Water Park Extravaganza
Yes, we do have Kalahari Resort in the state of Ohio located in Sandusky, which is one of the few locations that are in the U.S. Kalahari Resort is one of America’s largest indoor Water parks, with the magic of Africa. Resorts are heavily decorated with African animals and plants, and other African motifs. Dive into a tropical paradise under a roof with luxurious accommodations while experiencing a blend of comfort and adventure. Indulge in diverse dining options and entertainment within the resort. For a full enjoyable experience make sure you book dining, and accommodation all in the resort.Â
Tips for Ohio Adventures
Summer Months Magic: Visit during the summer for outdoor adventures and events.
Free Things to Do: Enjoy budget-friendly experiences with free attractions across the state.
Educational Programs: Dive deep into Ohio’s history and culture with educational programs
Special Events Extravaganza: Check out special exhibitions, festivals, and events happening throughout the year
There you have it, Ohio enthusiasts! Your ultimate guide to the best things to do in the Buckeye State. Whether you’re chasing thrills at amusement parks, exploring natural wonders, or delving into history and culture, Ohio has something spectacular for every kind of adventurer. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let the Ohio adventure begin!