Ohio Places | Top 15 Best Places To Visit In Ohio | Travel Guide

Ohio is in the heart of America, so you've probably traveled through it and stopped for a rest stop or two on road trips throughout the years. There is, however, much more to see and do in Ohio than just stopping for gas and snacks. This is a state with big cities, small towns, and unique charm that can't be found anywhere else. So the next time you're planning a trip, make Ohio your destination rather than just a pit stop. There are some of the best places to visit in Ohio, whether you're flying in for a business trip, going on a cross-country adventure, or just looking for some weekend fun with the kids. As you plan your trip, check out our list of the top 15 best places to visit in Ohio. Number 15, Dublin. Dublin is as authentically Irish as it gets on this side of the Atlantic. The annual Dublin Irish Festival, playing golf on Dublin's golf courses, indulging in a plate of fish and chips, or enjoying a freshly baked scone are all great ways to feel it. During the St. Patrick's Day Parade, everyone dresses up as an Irish man or woman. Residents and visitors alike will enjoy the charming Old World Town, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Zumbese Bay Water Park for the whole family, High Banks Metro Park, which honors Native American history, and the Olentangi Indian Caverns, which were once used by the Delaware tribe, are all worth visiting. Art can be found all over Dublin, and you don't even have to go to galleries to see it. It's all around you. Number 14, Marietta. Marietta, which was founded in 1788 as the first permanent settlement north and west of the Ohio River, has a rich history. A walking tour of the Marietta Historic District will teach you about the town's history, as will visits to some of the town's unusual and informative museums, such as the Campus Meritus Museum of the Northwest Territory, the Castle, and the Ohio River Museum. When you need a break from history, take a walk or ride your bike along the Paved River Trail, which winds along the Ohio River's banks, or go hiking or mountain biking on the off-road Marietta Trail network. While you're here, take a drive to see some of Washington County's historic covered bridges and the Ohio River Scenic Byway. Number 13, Akron. Akron, located 39 miles south of Lake Erie and adjacent to the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts as well as culture vultures. The Akron Art Museum, located in the Historic Arts District, is one of the city's top attractions, where art lovers can admire both traditional and contemporary works in an exceptional gallery. Many music clubs, restaurants, and galleries can be found in the Arts District. The Stan Hywet Hall, Hale Farm and Village, and the Main Street Historic District are all worth visiting if you want to learn more about Akron's past. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad and the Akron Zoo are great for kids. Number 12, Toledo. Toledo, a medium-sized city with a massive port, is located on the lakes of Lake Erie. The downtown area is a jumble of architectural styles, with a number of historic structures that have been saved and repurposed as artist housing. This gives the city a distinct atmosphere, and it serves as a cultural center for the state. The Toledo Museum of Art is one of the city's most popular attractions, with admission always free. The Old West End, where you'll find century-old trees and beautiful historic mansions, is just a short walk from the Museum of Art. Number 11, Athens. Athens, located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, has a varied range of attractions. This college town is home to Ohio University's main campus, which boasts more than 100 tree species, the 45-foot-tall Civil War Soldier's Monument, and the Serene Wolf Gardens in its historic college green area. You may also visit the Dairy Barn Arts Center, sample a craft beer at a local brewery, and engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, and fishing at Strouds Run State Park. Number 10, Yellow Springs. Yellow Springs will entice city dwellers with a plethora of outdoor activities, as well as interesting and diverse cultural attractions. Begin your visit by taking in the atmosphere of Yellow Springs downtown, which is home to a variety of unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Nature lovers can spend time exploring the Glen Helen Nature Reserve, which offers excellent hiking and birding opportunities, or the 752-acre John Bryan State Park, which offers rock climbing, hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. Foodies can visit the Farmer's Market, or enjoy genuine farm-to-fork meals at local eateries in the surrounding countryside, which is full of farms producing great local produce. Young's Jersey Dairy is a popular destination for families, with fun activities for the kids, and homemade ice cream, cheeses, and other treats to tempt you. Number 9, Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities such as Cleveland and Akron. This national park offers plenty of hiking, biking, fishing, and kayaking opportunities during the warmer months, as well as fun, kid-friendly activities like junior ranger programs and seasonal train rides. During the winter, Cuyahoga Valley transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting winter sports enthusiasts who want to spend their vacation snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or sledding. The park is genuinely stunning in early October, thanks to the fall foliage. Number 8, Sandusky. Sandusky, a small town with full of tourists, is also a popular vacation spot for Ohioans. The town is situated on the shores of Lake Erie, with its main attraction second only to the famous Cedar Point Amusement Park, North America's second oldest amusement park, which attracts large crowds every year, especially during the summer. Every year, the park introduces new extreme thrills and serves as a one-stop destination featuring lodging, entertainment, beaches, and a water park. There are several indoor water parks in the area that are great for families, and strolling in the small town streets looking for nautical-themed gifts is fun. Visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum while you're in the area for a one-of-a-kind experience that will make even adults feel like kids again. Number 7, Canton. Canton is a great place to visit, especially if you're interested in history. The William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum, as well as the McKinley Monument and the First Lady's National Historic Site are all located here. Many visitors come to Canton to see the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which features exhibits, a museum, and a Super Bowl theater that brings the game to life in a new way. While Canton is known for its football connections, the city also has some unique attractions worth visiting, such as the Canal Fulton Canalway Center, which chronicles the canal boat system along the Ohio and Erie Canal System, and the Feline Historical Society, which is a cat lover's dream. For car enthusiasts, there is a Canton Classic Car Museum, and for art enthusiasts, there is a Museum of Art. Number 6, Dayton. Dayton has a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all ages. The National Museum of the United States Air Force is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip, as it houses the country's largest collection of military aviation exhibits. At the Aviation Hall of Fame and the Aviation National History Park, you can pay homage to some of America's aviation pioneers, including the legendary Wright Brothers. Visit the Dayton Art Institute or the Schuster Performing Arts Center for a complete change of pace, or head to the Allwood Audubon Center or the Riverscape Metro Park for a breath of fresh air. Finish your tour by admiring the architecture and galleries in the Oregon Historic District. Number 5, Hocking Hills State Park. All nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts flock to Hocking Hills State Park in southeastern Ohio to explore forests, soaring rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and deep, enticing gorges. You can bring a tent, RV, or rent a cabin and spend a few days in the woods. Hikers can choose from six hiking areas in the park, each leading to a different scenic destination. The most popular are Ash Cave, Old Man's Cave, and Cedar Falls. There are two mountain bike trails, and the park offers regular ranger-led hikes and talks that bring the park's history to life. For nature lovers, Hocking Hills State Park is one of the best places to visit in Ohio. Number 4, Put-In-Bay. Put-In-Bay, a small town on Lake Erie's South Bass Island, is Ohio's summer vacation destination. Take the Jet Express from Upper Sandusky and a short boat ride to Put-In-Bay for non-stop action ranging from island tours and go-karts to gem mining and cave exploration at Perry's Cave Family Center. The island's focal point is Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial. The 352-foot-tall monument is a great place to start exploring the island, but don't forget to stop by the National Park and Visitor Center to learn more about the island's maritime history. The true appeal of Put-In-Bay is the ability to simply relax on a park bench or by the shores while listening to the waves or eating a fresh perch sandwich from one of the island's many restaurants. Number 3, Columbus. Columbus, Ohio's capital and home to many important facilities, is one of the three big C cities that round out this list. The Topiary Garden, the Center of Science and Industry, and the prehistoric Indian Mounds are just a few of the highlights. The Ohio State Fair, the Downtown Arts Festival, and Picnic with the Pops are just a few of the family-friendly events that you can plan your trip to Ohio around. If you're looking for something to do after the sun goes down, visit the Brewery District, Short North, or German Village for some great drinks and a lively nighttime scene. Number 2, Cincinnati. Cincinnati, one of Ohio's major cities, is a fantastic destination for arts and culture. The Krohn Conservatory is one of many outdoor gardens, museums, and art galleries to be found here. Cincinnati is shaped by the Ohio River, and the Reds and Bengals Sports Stadium, as well as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, are all located in the downtown area. Whatever your feelings about the city's location, the appeal is undeniable. The skyline is breathtaking, and you won't want to miss views of the Cincinnati Observatory Center or Carew Tower. The hands-on Duke Energy Children's Museum, Coney Island Amusement Park, and the Cincinnati Zoo are all good places to take the kids. Number 1, Cleveland. Cleveland, which sits on the shores of Lake Erie, has grown in popularity as a tourist destination thanks to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and its popular sports teams. The historic Gateway District is a lively area that has recently been revitalized and is home to over 60 bars and restaurants. Cleveland Heights has a hip scene that is popular with young people and foodies. There's an annual Greek Festival to attend, and there are plenty of live music venues to choose from. The Cleveland Zoo, the Interactive Children's Museum, and the Greater Cleveland Aquarium are all family-friendly attractions. In Cleveland, sports are very popular, and you can see the Cleveland Indians play at Progressive Field. Nothing beats the prospect of going on a trip with your closest friends and family. While there are many fantastic hidden jewels in the United States, one destination you should not pass over is the lovely, fascinating state of Ohio. There are more lists, and we hope you enjoyed this video's top 15 list. Remember to like this video, subscribe to our channel, and leave a comment below to express your thoughts. For more great travel ideas, take a look at our other travel videos.