Ohio, known as the Buckeye State, is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to serene landscapes, Ohio offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for every type of traveler. This itinerary is divided into eight sections, each highlighting a different aspect of what makes Ohio a fantastic destination.
Landmarks
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Located in Cleveland, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit for music enthusiasts. The museum chronicles the history of rock and roll through interactive exhibits, memorabilia, and multimedia displays. Highlights include the Hall of Fame Induction Gallery, which honors influential artists, and the interactive exhibit “The Garage,” where visitors can play instruments and jam with others.
The Ohio Statehouse
The Ohio Statehouse in Columbus is a striking example of Greek Revival architecture and has been the seat of Ohio’s government since 1857. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the state’s political history and explore the beautiful rotunda, the Senate chamber, and the House chamber. The Statehouse grounds are also home to several monuments and memorials.
The National Museum of the United States Air Force
Located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, the National Museum of the United States Air Force is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. The museum features over 360 aircraft and missiles, including historic planes like the Wright brothers’ 1909 Military Flyer and the B-2 Stealth Bomber. Interactive exhibits and flight simulators make this museum a fascinating destination for visitors of all ages.
Food and Cuisine
Skyline Chili
No visit to Ohio is complete without trying Skyline Chili, a Cincinnati institution known for its unique take on chili. Skyline’s chili is a Mediterranean-inspired meat sauce served over spaghetti or hot dogs and topped with shredded cheese, onions, and beans. Visit one of the many Skyline Chili locations throughout Cincinnati and experience this regional specialty.
The Thurman Café
Located in Columbus, The Thurman Café is famous for its enormous and delicious burgers. The Thurmanator, a massive burger with multiple patties, bacon, ham, and a variety of toppings, is a popular choice for those with a big appetite. The café also offers a range of appetizers, sandwiches, and beverages in a cozy, laid-back atmosphere.
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
For a sweet treat, head to Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, which has locations throughout Ohio. Jeni’s is known for its artisanal ice creams made with high-quality ingredients and creative flavors. Try unique offerings like Brambleberry Crisp, Goat Cheese with Red Cherries, and Salty Caramel. The ice cream is handmade in small batches, ensuring a rich and creamy texture.
The West Side Market
Cleveland’s West Side Market is a historic indoor/outdoor market that has been serving the community since 1912. The market features over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and prepared foods. It’s a great place to sample local specialties, pick up ingredients for a picnic, or enjoy a meal at one of the food stalls.
Entertainment
Cedar Point
Cedar Point, located in Sandusky, is known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World.” The amusement park features 70 rides, including 17 roller coasters, making it a thrill-seeker’s paradise. Highlights include the record-breaking Steel Vengeance and the iconic Millennium Force. The park also offers live shows, dining options, and a water park, Cedar Point Shores.
Kings Island
Another top amusement park in Ohio is Kings Island, located near Cincinnati. The park features a variety of rides and attractions, including the world’s longest wooden roller coaster, The Beast, and the high-speed steel coaster, Orion. Kings Island also has a water park, Soak City, and hosts seasonal events like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest.
The Cleveland Orchestra
The Cleveland Orchestra is considered one of the finest orchestras in the world. The orchestra performs at Severance Hall, a stunning concert venue in Cleveland’s University Circle. Visitors can enjoy classical concerts, pops performances, and special events throughout the year. During the summer, the orchestra performs at the outdoor Blossom Music Center, offering a beautiful setting for an evening of music.
Culture
The Cincinnati Art Museum
The Cincinnati Art Museum, located in Eden Park, is one of the oldest art museums in the United States. The museum’s collection includes over 67,000 works of art, spanning 6,000 years of world history. Highlights include European paintings, American masterpieces, and an extensive collection of Asian art. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions and offers educational programs and special events.
The Cleveland Museum of Art
The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for its comprehensive collection, which includes over 61,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s holdings range from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, with notable collections of Asian, African, and European art. The museum also offers free admission, making it accessible to all visitors. Special exhibitions, lectures, and family programs are regularly held.
The Columbus Museum of Art
The Columbus Museum of Art features an impressive collection of American and European modern and contemporary art. The museum is known for its collection of works by local artists, as well as pieces by renowned artists such as Picasso, Monet, and O’Keeffe. The museum’s Center for Creativity offers hands-on art-making experiences for visitors of all ages, and the museum regularly hosts special exhibitions and events.
Outdoor Activities
Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park, located in southeastern Ohio, is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. The park features rugged cliffs, waterfalls, caves, and dense forests. Popular activities include hiking, rock climbing, and zip-lining. The park’s most famous landmarks are Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls, each offering unique and picturesque landscapes.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located between Cleveland and Akron, offers a diverse range of outdoor activities and scenic landscapes. The park features over 125 miles of hiking trails, including the Towpath Trail, which follows the historic Ohio & Erie Canal. Visitors can also enjoy biking, bird watching, and kayaking on the Cuyahoga River. The park’s scenic railway, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, offers a unique way to explore the park’s beauty.
Lake Erie Islands
The Lake Erie Islands, located off the coast of northern Ohio, offer a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. South Bass Island, home to the village of Put-in-Bay, is known for its lively atmosphere, historic sites, and outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore the island by bike or golf cart, visit the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, and enjoy water activities such as boating, fishing, and swimming. Kelleys Island, the largest of the Lake Erie Islands, is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, including hiking, bird watching, and exploring the island’s unique glacial grooves.
Shopping
Easton Town Center
Easton Town Center, located in Columbus, is a premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination. The open-air shopping center features over 200 stores, including popular brands such as Nordstrom, Apple, and Tiffany & Co. Easton also offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, as well as entertainment venues like a movie theater and comedy club.
Short North Arts District
The Short North Arts District in Columbus is a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. Visitors can browse unique stores offering everything from fashion and home décor to art and handmade goods. The district also hosts the monthly Gallery Hop, where galleries and shops stay open late and feature new exhibitions, live music, and street performers.
Crocker Park
Crocker Park, located in Westlake near Cleveland, is a mixed-use development that offers shopping, dining, and entertainment in a picturesque setting. The shopping center features a variety of stores, including national retailers and local boutiques. Visitors can also enjoy dining at one of the many restaurants, catching a movie at the Regal Cinemas, or attending one of the seasonal events held throughout the year.
History
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
Located in Cincinnati, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center is a museum dedicated to the history of the Underground Railroad and the struggle for freedom and human rights. The museum features exhibits on the history of slavery, the abolitionist movement, and the Civil Rights Movement. Highlights include the “Slave Pen,” a restored 19th-century slave jail, and the “Hall of Everyday Heroes,” which honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the fight for freedom.
The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums
The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums, located in Fremont, is dedicated to the life and legacy of the 19th President of the United States. The site includes Hayes’ 31-room mansion, the Hayes Museum, and the presidential library. Visitors can explore exhibits on Hayes’ life and presidency, as well as the history of the Gilded Age. The grounds also feature beautiful gardens and a walking trail.
The Ohio History Center
The Ohio History Center in Columbus is the headquarters of the Ohio History Connection and features a museum with exhibits on the state’s history, culture, and natural history. The museum’s collection includes artifacts from Ohio’s prehistoric peoples, the Civil War, and the industrial age. The center also operates the Ohio Village, a living history museum that recreates a 19th-century Ohio town, complete with costumed interpreters and historic buildings.
Beaches
Edgewater Park
Edgewater Park, located in Cleveland along the shores of Lake Erie, is a popular destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a sandy beach, swimming areas, picnic facilities, and scenic walking trails. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Cleveland skyline and the lake, as well as events like concerts and festivals held at the park’s Edgewater Beach House.
Geneva State Park
Geneva State Park, located on the shores of Lake Erie in northeastern Ohio, offers a beautiful sandy beach and a variety of outdoor activities. The park features hiking and biking trails, fishing, boating, and camping facilities. The nearby town of Geneva-on-the-Lake is a charming resort community with restaurants, shops, and attractions, making it a great destination for a beach getaway.
Maumee Bay State Park
Maumee Bay State Park, located near Toledo, is known for its scenic Lake Erie beaches and diverse recreational opportunities. The park features a sandy beach, a marina, hiking and biking trails, and a golf course. The Maumee Bay Lodge offers comfortable accommodations, dining, and indoor and outdoor pools. The park is also home to the Maumee Bay Nature Center, which offers educational programs and exhibits on the area’s natural history.
Festivals and Events
The Ohio State Fair
The Ohio State Fair, held annually in Columbus, is one of the largest state fairs in the United States. The fair features a wide range of attractions, including agricultural exhibits, live entertainment, carnival rides, and a variety of food vendors. Highlights include the butter cow sculpture, the All-Ohio State Fair Band and Youth Choir, and concerts by national and local artists. The fair provides a fun and festive atmosphere for visitors of all ages.
The Cincinnati Music Festival
The Cincinnati Music Festival, held each summer at Paul Brown Stadium, is one of the largest and most popular music festivals in the Midwest. The festival features performances by top R&B, jazz, and soul artists, drawing thousands of music fans from across the country. Past performers have included legends like Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, and Mary J. Blige. The festival also includes food vendors, merchandise stalls, and pre-concert events.
The Circleville Pumpkin Show
The Circleville Pumpkin Show, held annually in October, is known as the “Greatest Free Show on Earth.” The festival celebrates all things pumpkin, featuring giant pumpkin displays, pumpkin-themed contests, and a variety of food vendors offering pumpkin-flavored treats. Highlights include the pumpkin pie contest, the pumpkin toss, and the crowning of the Pumpkin Show Queen. The festival also includes parades, live entertainment, and amusement rides, making it a fun and festive event for the whole family.
Ohio offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers, from its rich history and cultural attractions to its stunning natural beauty and vibrant entertainment scene. Whether you’re exploring landmarks, indulging in delicious cuisine, or enjoying outdoor activities, this itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit to the Buckeye State.