What goes with summer? Sandals, tank tops and road trips! Ohio has a little something for everyone, from sports fans to nature lovers to music aficionados. Here are a few of our favorite day trips for the whole family. Fill ’er up and take off!
Northeast Ohio
Edgewater Park
Spend your time soaking up the sun by visiting one of Ohio’s best hidden gems. Featuring 9,000 feet of shoreline on Lake Erie, Edgewater Park in Cleveland is the perfect Ohioan escape. Whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, fishing or having a picnic, this stop will truly feel like vacation.
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
The one and only Rock & Roll Hall is a must-see for rock lovers of all ages. You’ll find live music on the plaza stage and souvenirs from key rings to vinyl records. You can check out everything the Rock Hall offers in their exhibit guide, including The Garage, where you can play real instruments and make your own music! Tickets to the Rock Hall are $40 for adults, with discounts for children, Northeast Ohio residents, first responders and college students. Kids 5 and under and members get in free.
Flats East Bank
Experience Cleveland’s premier district for entertainment, dining and nightlife where the land meets the river in the Flats. Choose from several award winning restaurants and take a walk through The Land. If you want to continue the fun, the Flats are located close to many other Cleveland staples, like Playhouse Square and the Jack Casino.
Southeast Ohio
Hocking Hills
State parks, a national forest, hiking trails, caves, waterfalls, festivals, a thriving art community — Hocking Hills, Ohio, is truly a national treasure. You’ll find a huge variety of activities and attractions, from ziplines to spas to Appalachian music and culture . If you’re looking for some daytime exploration, Hocking Hills is the perfect summer getaway close to home.
The Wilds
Looking for more adventure? Ohio’s best safari park is the place to be. With over 20 species to see, The Wilds is one of the largest conservation centers in the world. Whether you attend an event or take a tour, your day is certain to be full of fun.
58 West
Located in the heart of southeast Ohio, 58 West is the perfect place to end your trip. With fine wine and craft beer for mom and dad and yummy snacks for the kids, nothing beats it. Enjoy a delicious meal with the family before you head home for the night.
Southwest Ohio
National Museum of the US Air Force
The Wright brothers were Ohio natives, so what better place for a museum dedicated to aviation history? With more than 360 items on display, it’s not just for aviation fanatics. Head down to Dayton for a wild ride on a flight simulator, to tour preserved aircraft used by three presidents and so much more fun.
Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
Continue your time southwest Ohio by heading to the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden for more fun. Experience the cheetah encounter or feed the giraffes, and don’t forget to stop at the souvenir shop on the way out. Tickets start at 13 dollars for adults, with discounts for large groups, students and first responders.
Kings Island Amusement and Water Park
Looking for some adventure and excitement? Kings Island Amusement and Water Park is the place to be. Full of rides, entertainment, dining and special events, any day at Kings Island is guaranteed to be fun for the whole family. Whether you go for a day or make it a weekend getaway, make sure this is on your list.
Central Ohio
Amish Country
Located in central Ohio and spanning five counties, Amish Country offers a chance to unplug and sample a simpler way of life. Tour the backroads, dine on homestyle recipes passed down for generations or visit the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center. Shop for antiques, handcrafted furniture, homemade soap, quilts and quilting supplies.
Easton Town Center
For those who could spend all day shopping ‘til they drop, central Ohio has just the place for you. Easton Town Center, just outside of downtown Columbus, features over 200 retailers, extensive dining options, an outdoor area and Ohio’s largest movie theater. With enough excitement for the whole family, this stop is worth the trip.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
The conservatory and gardens, with exhibits that change throughout the year, are home to hundreds of plant species from the Himalayas, rainforest, desert and Pacific Islands. Visitors can also visit several glass greenhouses, including a Victorian-style structure built in the 1800s. The conservatory and gardens account for 40 acres of the 88-acre Franklin Park, and they’re just a couple of miles from downtown Columbus.
