15 x Best Places to Visit in Ohio

Last Updated On June 22, 2023

Ohio, named after the flowing river that borders it to the south, is located in the heart of the American Midwest, one of the country's most populous regions. While Lake Erie is to the north, the rest of the region's low-lying plains and plateaus are bounded clockwise by Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, and Michigan. Even though most of its geography is comprised of unending agricultural fields, Hocking Hills State Park in the southeast is home to impressive gorges, caves, and falls. The Lake Erie Islands are also popular and scenic destinations.

Caesar Creek Lake, Ohio, USA

Photo by Michael Bowman on Unsplash

Aside from seeing some of Ohio's fantastic wineries or the stunning Cuyahoga Valley National Park, most people visit the state's three major cities: Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. While each has its history, culture, and traditions to discover, they all have outstanding museums and irresistible attractions. These include the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the excellent Cincinnati Zoo, the beautiful Ohio Statehouse, and the world-class Cleveland Museum of Art.

1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the best spots for hikers and bikers in Ohio. The park, located between Akron and Cleveland, is one of Ohio's major attractions. Every year, millions of people visit the park to enjoy the rich biodiversity and outdoor leisure activities.

If you go to this park, take the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. This is a terrific way to experience the park's magnificent vistas while learning about its history. The park also has over 100 waterfalls that are easily accessible via a hike.

2. Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking Hills State Park is home to some of Ohio's most magnificent natural scenery. The state park, founded in 1924, serves as a conservation area for the Hocking Hills region. Cliffs, waterfalls, gorges, rock formations, and other natural features dot the landscape.

Tourism is a significant economic driver in the area, with millions of visitors flocking to the park to enjoy Ohio's great outdoors. It's a popular spot for hiking routes, cave exploring, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.

3. Cleveland

Cleveland has a lot to offer visitors; the most challenging part will be picking what to do first. Start by going to some of the city's exciting museums, such as the Museum of Art, and the Museum of Natural History, and the Museum of Modern Art.

4. Ohio Backroad

5. Book Loft, German Village, Columbus

6. Sandusky

7. Lighthouse in Marblehead State Park

8. Cincinnati

Whatever your taste in entertainment, Cincinnati has something for you. You can take an American Legacy Tour to establish your bearings and determine which sites to visit later. Art enthusiasts will like the Cincinnati Art Museum and the magnificent Taft Museum of Art, which features many notable artists such as Rembrandt and Goya.

9. The Dexter Mausoleum

10. Columbus

This lovely city has a plethora of enjoyable activities, both cultural and natural. You can appreciate paintings at the Museum of Art, see an opera or ballet at the theatre, or take a tour of the area's historic structures.

There are also many things for outdoor enthusiasts to discover here. If you are considering a trip to Ohio, you should consider spending a few days in Columbus. This is one of the best sites to visit in Ohio that you should not miss.

11. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

12. Mentor Headlands Beach

13. Franklin Castle

14. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

15. Ohio State Reformatory