21 Things to Do in Ohio

Embark on a journey through Ohio’s rich tapestry of experiences, where options range from bustling city attractions to serene rural retreats. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or with family, Ohio’s variety caters to all. Discover the charm of Akron’s Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, or indulge in the culinary delights sprinkled across both large cities and small towns.

Beyond the high-energy thrills, Ohio serves as a cultural hub where live entertainment flourishes. From the vibrant performances in the streets of Cumberland to the compelling landmarks throughout the state, each visit promises a unique encounter with the heart of the Midwest. As you plan your vacation, consider the various state parks for a slice of outdoor adventure or historical sites for a touch of education.

Columbus

Experience the vibrant heart of Ohio’s capital through its diverse neighborhoods. In the German Village & Brewery District, you’re transported to a bygone era with meticulously preserved architecture. Stroll along cobblestone streets framed by historic buildings, now hosting an array of German-themed eateries, cozy pubs, and local breweries.

Venture to the Short North Arts District for a mix of culture and cuisine beneath the glow of 17 iconic arches. Here, the synergy of art and life is palpable, with over 100 venues including eclectic boutiques, art galleries, and contemporary restaurants. Nearby, enrich your mind at the Columbus Museum of Art or immerse in the wonders of the natural world at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. For a stay that complements the city’s flair, consider the chic quarters of Hotel Leveque, nestled within reach of Columbus’s core attractions.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Venture just two miles east of downtown Columbus and discover the 13-acre realm of the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Your journey through this enchanting space encompasses a diverse range of botanical biomes and art displays. Flourishing gardens are adorned with Dale Chihuly’s signature glass sculptures, adding a mesmerizing touch to the floral vistas. Highlights include The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company Community Garden Campus, spanning 4 acres replete with community plots, an apiary, and even a rose pavilion.

Admission is required for entry into the conservatory to experience these wonders firsthand. However, adjoining the main visitor area, you’ll find the larger Franklin Park grounds, offering 75 acres open to the public at no cost. Visitors often describe the experience as captivating, with a special nod to the seasons when either the vibrant blossoms or the festive holiday illuminations are on display. If planning a visit, note the address: 1777 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43203.

Cleveland

In Cleveland, your options for exploration are plentiful, boasting attractions that pique a diversity of interests. The city’s resurgence brims with hotspots, from the energy of FirstEnergy Stadium—home ground to the Cleveland Browns—to the harmonious stories within The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. For thrill seekers, the roller coasters of Cedar Point Amusement Park are a short drive away, making for an exhilarating day trip.

Delve into culture at the Cleveland Museum of Art, an institution offering free admission and an expansive collection that rivals global contemporaries. The serene Cleveland Botanical Garden promises a tranquil escape, while the USS Cod Submarine Memorial stands as a solemn tribute to maritime history. Each locale shares a unique slice of Cleveland’s multifaceted character.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Founded on September 2, 1995, and inaugurated with a gala concert at a large stadium in Cleveland, this distinctive five-level glass pyramid is now a premier Cleveland destination. For rock ‘n’ roll enthusiasts, the venue is a treasure trove of invaluable relics including performers’ costumes, original handwritten lyrics, and personal articles. Within its walls, you’ll find a breadth of films, interactive exhibits, and video presentations.

Your experience here can be hands-on in The Garage, where you’re free to play the guitar, keyboard, or drums, or you can experience historic performances in the Connor Theater. Remember to explore Level 3, the heart of the museum where inductees are honored. Visitors frequently enjoy their engaging time with the interactive displays and Connor Theater films.

A Christmas Story House

Located in Cleveland, Ohio, at 3159 W. 11th St., is the iconic home featured in the beloved film “A Christmas Story”. Movie enthusiasts have the opportunity to explore the residence that served as the backdrop for young Ralphie’s holiday adventures. Across the street, the museum dedicated to the film allows you to immerse yourself in the cinematic history with exhibits displaying original props, such as the family’s car, Randy’s memorable snowsuit, and the toys from the Higbee’s window display.

For an authentic experience, you are able to reserve a stay at the famous house, granting the chance to spend the night in the same beds that once cradled Ralphie and his brother Randy. With the museum doors closed to the public, the house is yours to wander until 9 a.m. the next morning, offering a unique way to recreate and live out your favorite moments from the film.

West Side Market

The West Side Market stands as Cleveland’s most enduring food hub, with a history that extends back to its inception. Your experience here encompasses a diverse array of over 100 merchants offering a variety of items including quality meats, fresh seafood, and a colorful spread of produce. Noteworthy delicacies await at Frank’s II, with a lineage tracing back to the original bratwurst stall from 1970, ensuring your taste buds a classic bite of history.

At the Pierogi Palace, indulge in comforting Polish cuisine, where savory pierogies and crispy potato latkes await. You are encouraged to explore the myriad of flavors, with every visit revealing new treats, like aromatic spices and freshly baked breads. Wise shoppers suggest visiting towards closing time for the best deals. The market is located at 1979 W. 25th St., Cleveland, OH 44113, inviting you to become part of its storied tradition.

Cincinnati

Settled majestically on the banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnati’s urban landscape spreads across Ohio, with touches extending into Indiana and Kentucky. A remarkable feature of the area is its vibrant riverfront, embracing Northern Kentucky and the heart of Cincinnati. Visit and enjoy various outdoor pursuits, indulge in family-centric dining options, and don’t miss the famed Newport Aquarium, a prized Kentucky landmark.

On the culinary front, Cincinnati cherishes its gastronomic heritage. Whether it’s savoring the city’s signature Skyline Chili on Vine Street or savoring scoops of Graeter’s famed ice cream, which has delighted patrons since 1870, your taste buds are in for a treat. Cincinnati’s German roots have fostered an illustrious brewing culture spanning over two centuries, with about 80 breweries dotted around the city. Engage in a food tour to capture the essence of Cincinnati’s diverse food scene.

Over-the-Rhine Neighborhood

In the heart of Cincinnati, the Over-the-Rhine district stands as a vibrant community infused with history. Once a thriving hub for German immigrants, the area was renowned for its skilled artisans and a plethora of breweries—over thirty in its heyday. Despite the decline caused by Prohibition, the neighborhood is experiencing a vigorous resurgence.

The neighborhood’s aesthetic allure lies in its architectural and cultural offerings. Music Hall, a magnificent edifice, serves as the domicile for the city’s symphony orchestra, ballet, opera, and other performances. Adjacent to this cultural gem, the district boasts one the country’s most extensive and well-maintained collections of Italianate architecture. For a dive into the neighborhood’s storied past, the Ultimate Queen City Underground Tour by American Legacy Tours presents an immersive experience.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Opened in 1875, Cincinnati’s renowned wildlife sanctuary ranks among America’s long-established zoos. Expansion over the years has allowed the facility to extend beyond the initial 65-acre parcel to encompass several city blocks and additional suburban land. Featuring illustrious structures such as the Elephant House and Reptile House, this zoological park is designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Make sure to explore the spectrum of special events on the zoo’s calendar, like an exclusive sunset safari dubbed The African Sundowner that caters to adults, offering cocktails, appetizers, and a private tour guided by a zoo expert. A must-visit is the Hippo Cove, where you’ll meet the internet sensation Fiona, a baby hippo who defied the odds and survived despite her premature birth, and her mother, Bibi.

Cincinnati Museum Center

Located within the iconic Union Terminal’s art deco structure, the Cincinnati Museum Center is a cultural epicenter that brings together multiple attractions under one roof. Your admission ticket grants you access to three main institutions: the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science, and The Children’s Museum. These museums are complemented by the impressive five-story domed Robert D. Lindner Family OMNIMAX Theater.

1301 Western Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45203 is where you’ll find this compound rich with exhibits and immersive experiences. While the general ticket covers the primary museums, you might also be drawn to the additional experiences offered on-site. These include impactful films in the OMNIMAX Theater, reflective exhibits at The Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center, and the historically significant National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Keep in mind that these specific attractions are available for an extra fee.

Sandusky

Sandusky Bay cradles an oasis of entertainment, proudly hosting Cedar Point Amusement Park, celebrated for its thrilling roller coasters. This locale earns its reputation as the heartland of water-based revelries, brimming with institutions such as Kalahari and Great Wolf Lodge. As the mercury ascends, seize your chance for aquatic exploits like sailing and stand-up paddleboarding on the capacious waters of Lake Erie or indulge in the serenity of a sunset cruise.

Dive into the region’s historical tapestry with the self-directed tour tracing the pivotal landmarks of the Underground Railroad. These testimonials of Sandusky’s pivotal role in the flight to freedom are intricately woven into the city’s fabric. For a maritime pilgrimage, embark on a journey to witness Lake Erie’s Shores & Islands’ nautical guardians–the eight majestic lighthouses, including the historical Marblehead Lighthouse and the newly revived Port Clinton Lighthouse.

Cedar Point Amusement Park

Positioned on the shores of Lake Erie since the 19th century, Cedar Point is renowned for its impressive collection of roller coasters. Your thrill-seeking adventures begin with a history of adrenaline-pumping rides, dating back to the Switchback Railway in 1892. This tradition of record-breaking continued aggressively into the new millennium with Millennium Force, a coaster that sets standards in height, speed, and angle of descent.

Within the park, you’ll find over 70 attractions, highlighted by a set of 17 world-class roller coasters. Notable among these is Steel Vengeance, known for being the longest of its hybrid kind globally, and Millennium Force, which remains a top contender among roller coaster aficionados. Beyond hair-raising rides, the park offers a spectrum of softer amusements, from lounging on the beach stretching for a mile to embarking on a tranquil riverboat journey on the Snake River Expedition.

National Museum of The United States Air Force

At Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, a mere 6 miles from Dayton, sits a titan of military aviation heritage—the National Museum of The United States Air Force. Sprawling across 19 acres of exhibit space, this institution houses a staggering collection of over 350 aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, and historical artifacts. It stands as a testament to the US Air Force’s rich narrative and the broader tapestry of aviation progression.

Your visit offers a chance to step through thematic galleries dedicated to pivotal periods like World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War, and the journey into space. Don’t miss the immersive film offerings such as “Fighter Pilot Operation Red Flag 3D” or explore astronautics in “Astronaut Ocean to Orbit.” Complement the exhibits with hands-on activities available in the interactive simulator rides.

Hocking Hills State Park

In the heart of southeastern Ohio, you’ll find the renowned Hocking Hills State Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Spanning a range of captivating landscapes, it’s the perfect spot for activities like hiking, camping, and exploring nature’s artistry. The park boasts seven significant one-way trails, each accessible throughout the year and offering its own distinctive charm.

Your adventure here intertwines with larger trail systems, since this path is part of Ohio’s Buckeye Trail and intersects with the expansive North Country Scenic Trail and America’s Discovery Trail. Your journey to the park’s striking caves and waterfalls doesn’t always demand arduous effort—a welcomed note for those seeking leisurely exploration amidst rural beauty. When planning your visit, navigate to 19852 State Route 664, Logan, OH 43138 to begin your Hocking Hills journey.

Pro Football Hall of Fame

At the heart of Canton, Ohio lies a celebration of professional football’s finest—the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This iconic landmark pays homage to the sport’s most celebrated players and contributors with over 10 million enthusiasts having passed through its doors, including international visitors from over 70 countries. The main gallery showcases the heroes of the gridiron with their bronzed likenesses, touching bios, and interactive video displays.

Dive into the storied past of the NFL’s ultimate contest at the Lamar Hunt Super Bowl Gallery, which chronicles Super Bowl history from its inception to recent times. Additionally, the “A Game for Life” theater presents a unique holographic experience where legends of the game, such as Joe Namath and Vince Lombardi, are vividly brought to cinematic life.

Berlin

Nestled among lush, rolling hills and expansive farmlands, Berlin forms the centerpiece of Ohio’s Amish Country. This charming town, located roughly 50 miles south of Akron, boasts a serene landscape dotted with traditional Amish farms, quaint houses, and the occasional horse-drawn carriage navigating its roadways. When you visit, you’ll find an inviting array of year-round festivals.

Dining in Berlin promises an authentic Amish culinary adventure with generous plates brimming with home-cooked favorites like tender baked chicken, succulent roast beef, fluffy mashed potatoes drenched in rich gravy, and a medley of fresh vegetables. At Berlin Farmstead, be sure to indulge in a slice—or several—of their famous pie, with options ranging from vibrant fruit-filled delights to silky creams and custards.

Cuyahoga Valley Heritage Railway

For over a century, the heritage railroad running through Cuyahoga Valley National Park has offered year-round excursions. If you’re a biker, hiker, or kayaker looking to return to your starting point, one-way transportation is available. Board the National Park Flyer for a 90-minute visual treat or indulge in specialty trips such as gourmet train dinners and interactive mystery events.

You can expect to witness the meticulous revival of historical train cars and picturesque landscapes. Many passengers share their delight, particularly mentioning the enchantment of the holiday-themed rides. The Rockside Station at 7900 Old Rockside Road, Independence, Ohio, serves as a key departure point for these adventures.

Kings Island

Your adventure at Kings Island, nestled at 300 Kings Island Drive, extends beyond its thrilling rides. This premier amusement park boasts over 100 attractions, including 15 roller coasters to test your courage. Among these adrenaline-inducing rides is Orion, the park’s pride as one of the globe’s seven giga coasters. For those with a penchant for height and speed, these engineering marvels tower between 300 to 399 feet and can propel you at velocities surpassing 90 mph.

The fun at Kings Island is not just for thrill-seekers. You can bring the entire family for a memorable day with child-friendly rides in the Peanuts-themed Planet Snoopy. If you’re looking to beat the heat, Soak City Water Park offers a refreshing escape with its 36 waterslides and a plethora of water activities, featuring tropical lagoons and engaging play areas designed for children.

Metroparks Toledo

Your exploration of Toledo can lead you to its extensive collection of 19 diverse parks, spanning over 12,700 acres. These parks aren’t just popular spots for the locals—they magnetize nearly 6 million visitors each year with their array of outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re seeking solitude in nature or adrenaline-pumping activity, there’s something for everyone.

Should you crave even more variety, Toledo’s parks offer an array of activities throughout the seasons that cater to your sense of adventure. Experience the nostalgia of a mule-driven canal boat, The Volunteer, or take on modern pursuits such as geocaching and horseback riding. When the snow falls, the fun doesn’t stop—you can go camping, snowshoeing, sledding, or ice skating.

Butler County Donut Trail

Embarking on this unique culinary journey, you’ll discover that Butler County boasts an extraordinary number of donut shops, carving out a niche for itself in the heartland of the Midwest. To fully immerse yourself in this sugary endeavor, be sure to secure a Donut Trail passport and map. Tailor your tour with the expertise of a Donut Trail concierge, who can guide you through a delicious expedition of deep-fried delights, from traditional glazed to bacon-topped innovations.

Be prepared for an early start as the trail features 13 cherished family-owned establishments, including Stan the Donut Man and The Donut Dude, which are known to exhaust their stock swiftly. Completing the trail secures more than just a satisfied sweet tooth; a commemorative Donut Trail T-shirt awaits those who visit each location. Veteran trail enthusiasts suggest an early start is key—you’ll want to beat the post-sugar crash and the midday closing times some shops may have.

The Covered Bridge Trail

In the northeast region of Ohio, Ashtabula County is renowned for its collection of 19 quaint covered bridges nestled among verdant hills and sprawling vineyards. Be sure to download the digital guide to these iconic structures before embarking on your self-directed excursion through Ohio’s charming countryside.

The Riverview Covered Bridge stands out with its considerable size at 150 feet in length and a width of 14 feet, catering exclusively to foot traffic. Meanwhile, the Smolen-Gulf Bridge claims the title of the nation’s lengthiest covered bridge, extending 613 feet across the Ashtabula River and measuring 30 feet in width. Visitors often note the diversity in size and design of these bridges, making for an enjoyable day’s adventure.