Right in the heart of the Midwest is the state of Ohio. Created in part by natural borders, Ohio is made up of both Lake Erie and the Ohio River. The state boasts an attractive mix of interesting cities, unspoiled natural landscapes, and charming farms.
Whether you’re exploring Ohio for a weekend visit or an extended vacation, there’s plenty to see. While major cities like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati are among the best places to visit in Ohio, this guide also suggests some wonderful additions to your Buckeye State itinerary.
Here are the best excursions in Ohio:
Hocking Hills State Park
One of the most scenic places to visit in Ohio is Hocking Hills State Park. Inside the huge park, you will find deep gorges, impressive waterfalls, and impressive cliffs. There are also many caves, many of which have evidence that the Adena people lived in the area over 7,000 years ago.
The most famous of these caves are Cueva del Viejo and Cueva de las Cenizas, both of which can be explored by visitors. Miles and miles of marked hiking trails beckon, and extraordinarily tall hemlocks create shade for hot summer afternoons.
Cleveland
Cleveland is yet another city built on the shores of Lake Erie, and is a major metropolitan center for the region. Its biggest attraction might be the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, an incredible modern structure designed by the famous architect IM Pei, who also designed the iconic glass pyramid in front of the Louvre Museum.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is the place where you can see the newest inductees, see exhibits of Elvis, David Bowie and U2 or meet the people behind some of the most famous instruments of all time. . If you only visit one thing in Cleveland, make sure it’s this incredible monument to music.
Cincinnati
On the Ohio River is Cincinnati, a place nicknamed the Queen City. Even Charles Dickens had a crush on Cincinnati, calling it gay, prosperous and lively. Cincinnati is unique in that it straddles the Mason-Dixon line. Some residents believe that they are firmly situated in the southern United States, while others strongly believe that this is not the case.
Whatever your point of view on the location of the city, the appeal cannot be denied. The skyline is incredible, and you won’t want to miss views of buildings like Carew Tower or the Cincinnati Observatory Center.
Cincinnati also boasts an amazing park system, so head over to Sawyer Point to see live concerts and enjoy the green spaces that are so popular with locals and visitors alike.
Holmes County
In the eastern part of Ohio is Holmes County, a region full of beautiful, steep hills and narrow green valleys. In addition to being an agricultural hub with stunning scenery, Holmes County is the epicenter of Ohio’s Amish Country. Shopping is often a priority when visiting Holmes County.
However, amazing artisan hardwood millwork, sweet homemade jams, and tasty local cheeses aren’t the only way to experience Amish culture. Head to the city of Berlin to see the Amish and Mennonite Sistine Chapel, which offers a unique cyclorama and guided tours led by Mennonite guides.
Columbus
The state capital of Ohio is Columbus. This city is a unique destination that brings together a wide variety of cultures. Columbus is the intersection of regional areas like the Corruption Belt, the Great Plains Bible Belt, and Appalachia, creating something of a melting pot for its residents. It is also home to Ohio State University, which attracts more young people from all corners of the world.
A great way to explore Columbus’ heritage and history is by visiting German Village, located just outside of downtown. In the German village, you can walk tree-lined, cobblestone streets, admire restored bungalows, and stop at a local cafe for coffee and fresh pastries.
Lake Erie Islands
As their name suggests, the Lake Erie Islands are located within the Great Lake itself. The Lake Erie Islands are accessible by ferry from various points along the shoreline.
There are several tourist-oriented islands, and there are also a handful that are privately owned or require a membership. Of the islands open to the public, Kelleys Island is one of the best.
Once you arrive, you can head straight to Glacial Grooves State Park, created by glaciers moving through limestone bedrock. Next to the ferry dock, look for signs pointing to Inscription Rock, which is marked with native petroglyphs.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The only national park in the state is the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Just blocks from Cleveland, the park’s main attraction is the beautiful Cuyahoga River. Rolling hills, shaded gorges, sandstone ledges, and more than 70 waterfalls can be seen along nearly 200 miles of hiking trails.
If serious hiking isn’t your idea of a good time, there’s a great alternative that still lets you see a lot of the scenery. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad has several stations, and an afternoon aboard the train is a wonderful way to see a lot in a short time.
Dayton
If you’re headed to Dayton, aviation is a must. This city is steeped in history, not least because it’s where the Wright brothers lived, worked, and perfected their first practical airplane.
In Downtown Dayton, look up to find the iconic Flyover, a sculptural piece embedded in the architecture that traces the path of that first flight perfected by the Wright brothers.
Whether you’re an aviation buff or not, you’ll appreciate the Wright Cycle Company Complex. This complex is where the Wright brothers operated their bicycle repair shop, while air travel was just a concept.
Sandusky
Situated between Cleveland and Toledo, on the shores of Lake Erie, Sandusky is a city with much to be proud of. The city’s best-known attraction is Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can experience some of the most thrilling and extreme roller coasters and rides in the entire Midwest.
If you prefer something a little more relaxing, Sandusky is also home to the Cold Creek Trout Camp. From here, you can venture out to where the waters of Sandusky Bay mix with those of Lake Erie, and there are even incredible views from the rides at Cedar Point.
Toledo
On the lakes of Lake Erie is Toledo, a medium-sized city with a huge port. The city center is a hodgepodge of architecture, and there are a number of historic buildings that have been salvaged and converted into artist-housing spaces.
This gives the city a unique atmosphere, and it is a center for art and culture within the state. The Toledo Museum of Art is one of the biggest attractions in the city, and admission is always free. Walk from the Art Museum to the neighborhood known as the Old West End, where you’ll find century-old trees and beautiful historic mansions.
FAQs – Frequent questions
What are some of the tourist attractions in Columbus Ohio?
Top 10 things to do in Columbus Ohio 10. Hang out at Columbus parks 9. Visit the Franklin Park Conservatory 8. 7. Dine at a Columbus Food League restaurant Try Jeni’s splendid ice cream 6. Go shop at Easton Town Center 5. 5. Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium 4. Stroll the Scioto Mile
What fun things can you do in Ohio?
Fun things to do in Ohio. The fun things to do in the Buckeye State are endless. From skydiving, diving, caving to chariot racing. The home of the State of the Football Hall of Fame offers an almost endless array of fun things to do in Ohio that will linger in the memory forever.
Is there a city of Columbus in Ohio?
Columbus is a city that is located in Ohio, United States of America. It is located at 39.96 latitude and -83.00 longitude and is located at a height of 242 meters above sea level. Columbus has a population of 787,033, making it the largest city in Ohio.
