NOTE: This post is under construction. Please excuse our mess while we work to make this post more user-friendly.

Are you looking for things to do in Ohio but don’t know where to begin? We have 100+ tried and true places to visit in Ohio right here on this page. From family-friendly to couples only we have recommendations of free attractions to visit as well as those that are totally splurge-worthy for a getaway you’re not likely to forget. Check out our suggestions for Ohio attractions and destinations and bookmark this page- it changes often. ”

This list is a work in progress and was last updated on 4/20/2019.

100’s of the Best Things to do in Ohio when you’re Bored

Ohio is one of the top wine-producing states in the country, has the largest Amish population in the world and is known as the roller coaster capital, thanks to the thrill seekers paradise, Cedar Point. Ohio is pretty diverse and most people have no idea of all that Ohio has to offer!

Our goal for the past couple of years has been to explore that diversity and uncover some of the attractions and events that make Ohio not only a great place to live but also a great place to visit.

The Longaberger Market Basket took 2000 hours to weave.

The world’s largest market basket in Dresden is the size of a small house.

How to Use this Post

As we discover new reasons to love our home state, we’ll write a post about it and share it here. Simply click on the link – or sentence that is blue or purplish- to go to that blog post to see what we have to say about that attraction or destination.

Hopefully, our experiences will help you as you plan outings with your own children, spouse or travel buddies. We’ll also add a button to the sidebar so you can easily reference this post as we visit more Ohio attractions and add them to our list of things to do in Ohio. So make sure you bookmark this page, Pin it to your Ohio board, or share it so you’ll have it to refer back to when you’re looking for more ideas.

For ease in navigation and reading, this post is broken up by region and then by larger cities within that region. For example, in northeast Ohio, you’ll find Cleveland, Medina, Mansfield, etc.

The Columbus State House

Things to do in Northwest Ohio

This area borders Michigan, Indiana and Lake Erie. It stretches from Toledo to Sandusky, down to Bucyrus and into Mercer County. Popular attractions include Cedar Point Amusement Park, the Lake Erie islands, many historical sites and the Toledo Museum of Art.

Hippos in the Hippoquarium at the Toledo Zoo

Things to do near Toledo

Why you don’t want to Miss an Early Morning Walk at Maumee Bay State Park

One of the Ohio state park lodges, Maumee Bay is a one-stop getaway. Book a stay in the hotel or one of the cabins on the property. Swim, boat or fish in Lake Erie, bird watch along the boardwalk or golf along the golf course that welcomed President Obama during his presidency. Maumee Bay is conveniently located only a short drive from Toledo.

More things to do in Toledo:

Grab a bite to eat and sign your buns at the original Tony Packo’s.
Explore the Toledo Museum of Art and watch glass being blown across the street at the Glass Pavilion.
Take a walk on the former world’s largest freighter at the National Museum of the Great Lakes.
Watch the hippos swim in the world’s only Hippoquarium at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium.
Go bird watching at Magee Marsh.

Things to do in Sandusky

Spotlight on Ohio’s Shores and Islands Region: Things to do in Sandusky

If you only have time to read one post on Sandusky, this is the one. With suggestions on where to eat, sleep and play, this post offers ideas to keep you busy for a weekend and beyond. Some of the attractions mentioned in this post include:

The Sandusky Merry-Go-Round Museum

Learn about the history of the carousel, watch skilled woodcarvers in action and take a ride on the in-house carousel.

Sandusky Maritime Museum

Learn about Lake Erie’s role in contributing to the growth of Sandusky and check out an impressive exhibit highlighting antique and vintage wooden boats at this regional museum.

The Milan Museum Complex

Tour seven distinct and impressive museums that include a glass museum, the Newton Arts Gallery, a general store that serves as a gift shop, and Four Seasons Statue Garden.

The Sheldon Marsh State Nature Preserve

This nature preserve is gorgeous any time of year and since most of it is paved, those pushing strollers or in wheelchairs or walkers can enjoy it too.

Take a Weekend to Explore Sandusky, Ohio

This post includes some of our favorite museums and attractions that can easily be seen in one weekend in Sandusky.

Hotel Kilbourne

Where to Stay in Sandusky

Sawmill Creek Resort

The Sawmill Creek Resort is located minutes from Cedar Point and offers seasonal activities like snowshoeing, enjoying the private beach, shopping, and dining in the on-site restaurant.

Inside Hotel Breakers at Cedar Point

Hotel Breakers has undergone an extensive renovation over the past couple of years which includes enhanced outdoor areas and new furnishings and decor in the rooms.

Hotel Kilbourne

Hotel Kilbourne is the only boutique hotel in Sandusky. Conveniently located on Water Street, directly across from the Jet Express and Goodtime I terminals, the hotel features Moseley’s Public House, a rooftop bar and OH Taco! Guests of the hotel will not go hungry or thirsty and will find there’s plenty to do on foot so park your car and truly enjoy downtown Sandusky.

Holiday Inn Express

Minutes from downtown Sandusky and located on the Cedar Point Causeway, the Holiday Inn Express offers large, comfortable rooms for families and even features a kitchenette in some.

More Things to do in Sandusky and the surrounding area:

Take a tour of Sandusky on foot or by joining Jim at Sandusky Segwave for a one or two hour tour and see Sandusky in a new light.
Enjoy a Sunset Bay Cruise on the Goodtime I which departs from downtown Sandusky during the summer months. Additional cruises are available including family cruises and teen and adult-only sailings.
Photograph the nearby lighthouses in Marblehead, Vermilion and Port Clinton.
Enjoy a touch of nostalgia and seek out Handless Jacques: a Roadside Attraction in Marblehead.
Conquer your fears and get your thrill on at Cedar Point and scream to your heart’s content during Halloweekends.
Visit Ohio’s oldest dairy and enjoy an ice cream cone at Toft’s Dairy.
Take an architectural walk of downtown Sandusky.
Take a boat ride through the lagoons of Vermilion on the Mystic Belle.

Things to do on South Bass Island & Kelleys Island

If you’ve never visited the islands in Lake Erie, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. South Bass, Middle Bass, and Kelleys Island are each a short ferry ride away from the mainland. You can travel to Put-in-Bay via Miller Boat Line or Jet Express in about 20 minutes.

Take a Ride on the Put-in-Bay Tour Train

The Put-in-Bay tour train offers a great overview of the island’s highlights and provides easy hop-on, hop-off service to the top attractions.

Visit Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial

Learn about Oliver Hazard Perry, the War of 1812 and ride to the top of the world’s most massive Doric column for a bird’s eye view of the surrounding islands.

Kayak the Bay for Active Family Fun

Rent kayaks for a chance to see the island through new eyes. Several possible routes are suggested which include kayaking around Gibraltar Island to kayak through the Needle’s Eye: One of Ohio’s Natural Arches or kayaking past the Ship House which is visible from the water.

Crystal Cave: the World’s Largest Geode

Descend into the cave under the Heineman Winery to step inside the world’s largest geode. Definitely a tourist trap, but one you should experience at least once.

More Posts on Put-in-Bay:
Things to do: Put-in-Bay, Ohio
A Delightfully Lazy Day on Put-in-Bay
Best of the USA: Put-in-Bay
Bay Lodging Resort in Put-in-Bay

Things to do Kelleys Island:
Exploring Family Friendly Kelleys Island

More things to do on South Bass Island:

Grab your camera and stroll through the Scheef East Point Preserve and Massie Cliffside Preserve which offers a great view of the newly opened historic Lonz Winery.
Eat your way along the island on the newly formed Put-in-Bay Foodie Trail. Some of our favorite spots include The Forge, the Boathouse Bar & Grill, Reel Bar, The Keys, and Cameo Pizza.

Things to do in Bucyrus and the Surrounding Area

Bucyrus, Ohio: More than Meets the Eye
Step into the Past at D. Picking & Co.
Bucyrus Murals: Where History and Art Combine
Bucyrus Celebrates its German Heritage

Waterpark Hotels in Ohio

Tips to Help You Enjoy a Visit to the Kalahari Resort in Sandusky Ohio

The Kalahari is the largest waterpark hotel and waterpark in Ohio. From restaurants to a spa to a petting zoo and outdoor adventure park, you’ll find plenty to do year-round at the Kalahari. And while you’re there It’s Okay to be Pampered: Relax at Spa Kalahari.

The Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky

Castaway Bay Indoor Waterpark

Things to do in Northeast Ohio

Things to do in Cleveland Ohio

The Garfield Memorial in Lake View Cemetery

The 180-foot tall memorial in Lakeview Cemetery honors America’s 20th president, one of four killed in office. The Garfield Memorial is impressive on the outside, but the real beauty lies in the interior.

Rockefeller Park Greenhouse

Perhaps the biggest secret in Cleveland, this quiet garden provides an escape from the city.

Seeking Adventure at Go Ape Zipline & Treetop Adventure in Cleveland

Adventure seekers converge on Go Ape where the zip line and adventure course. This course in Strongsville features 5 zip lines and 42 obstacles.

Buy the books here:
Secret Cleveland: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful and Obscure
100 Things to do in Cleveland Before You Die, 2nd Edition

Things to do in the Surrounding Area:

The World’s Largest Eagle’s Nest Replica

This man-made eagle’s nest is modeled after a nest that was found in nearby Vermilion.

Headlands Beach State Park

A visit to Headlands Beach State Park (which is totally FREE) and you’ll have a hard time remembering that you’re standing on the shore of Lake Erie and not the ocean.

Do you know where to Find the World’s Largest Drum Sticks in Ohio?

Fans of David Grohl will want to add a pilgrimage to Warren Ohio to pay homage to the frontman of the Foo Fighters.

Things that go Bump in the Night: Punderson Manor State Park Lodge

Spending the night at Punderson Manor State Park Lodge isn’t for the faint of heart. This property is said to have made even skeptics believe in ghosts.

Hidden Art of Worden’s Ledges at Hinckley’s Reservation Cleveland Metroparks

If you love spending time in the outdoors and art, this trail is for you. Check out the images carved in rock in one of Ohio’s hidden gems.

More things to do in Cleveland and the Surrounding Area:

Book a room at the Glidden House and then spend the day exploring the museums of University Circle.
Take a FREE Tour of the Old Stone Church in Downtown Cleveland.
Get your American Ninja Warrior on at Play CLE.
Spend the day at the Rock-n-Roll Hall of Fame.
Go ice skating in Public Square.
Take a Lolly the Trolley ride of Lakeview Cemetery.
Journey to the End of the Commons, the oldest general store in the state.

Things to do in Central Ohio

Things to do in Columbus Ohio

10 Things to do with the Family in Columbus

From touring the Ohio State House and public art displays to dining at an eclectic and lively restaurant, this post includes a list of some of our favorite things to do in Columbus with the kids but this can easily be adapted for fun date night ideas for couples.

Field of Corn: An Amazing and Quirky Roadside Attraction

This giant roadside attraction is actually part of an extensive art trail that winds through Dublin, a suburb of Columbus.

The Topiary Park in Columbus, Ohio

This park is modeled after the famous painting ‘A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grand Jatte by George Seurat. It is the only park created from topiaries that is based entirely on a painting.

Tour a Lustron Home in Columbus

This Lustron home was manufactured in Columbus and now resides in the Ohio History Connection to transport visitors to the 1950s.

A Weekend in Columbus Exploring the Arts and More

Columbus has a vibrant art community. From parks and gardens to public art displays to gorgeous architecture, there’s much to see and do in Ohio’s capital city.

Explore Historic Dublin Ohio: from Fairy Doors to Irish Fare and More

This Irish influenced community offers much to explore from an historic downtown, impressive art trail, world-class zoo as well as Irish cuisine, Celtic cocktails and a Fairy Door Trail.

Pickaway County
Deer Creek State Park Lodge
Circleville, Ohio: a Unique Small Town Experience
Photo Essay: Deer Creek State Park
Ohio State Park Lodges: Deer Creek State Park Lodge

Things to do in Southwest Ohio

Things to do Near Dayton

Breakout Escape Games offer Adventure for All Ages

Clinton County
Down on the Farm Fun: Chuck Wagon Dinner Rides at Bonnybrook Farms

Things to do in Southeast Ohio

Guernsey County
Dickens Victorian Village
Hopalong Cassidy Museum
Salt Fork State Park
Guernsey Kitchen
McKenna’s Marketplace
Historic Downtown Walking Tour

Muskingum County
The Wilds: Perfect for Multi-Generational Family Fun

Washington County
Marietta, Ohio: a River Town Steeped in History
Made in Marietta: Bite-size History at Sewah Studios

Things to do in the Hocking Hills Region

Athens County
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
24 Hours in Athens, Ohio: What to see and do in Limited Time

Hocking County
Glenlaurel: Romantic and Luxurious Accommodations in Hocking Hills
Three Fun & Quirky Roadside Attractions in Hocking Hills
A Stay at Laurel Run: Hocking Hills Luxury Cabins
Romantic Lodging Options in Hocking Hills
The Rush Resort: Ohio Luxury Lodging in Hocking Hills
Eat your way through a Hocking Hills Road Trip

Fairfield County
The Ohio Art Corridor

Vinton County
Ohio’s Covered Bridges in Vinton County

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Comments

Michelle says
June 27, 2018 at 10:27 pm
Hi there! I realize that this post was many years ago – but our family is planning an Ohio trip and I came across your post from a link on Pinterest. Thanks for putting it out there! If you’ve never been to northwest Ohio, the Spangler Candy Company offers factory tours and a trolley ride – home of the Dum Dum suckers, the only US made candy canes and circus peanuts! Bryan, Ohio – Williams County! 🙂
- Tonya Prater says
  July 3, 2018 at 1:37 am
  Thanks for the recommendations, Michelle. Spangler Candy Company has been on my list of places to explore for quite a while now. I just keep running out of time. While I did write the original post a few years ago, it is updated as I venture to more Ohio destinations as I hope it continues to be a valuable resource. Thanks so much for stopping by!
Rich says
March 9, 2018 at 8:36 pm
Great article! Very comprehensive list. Reminds me of how many places I have not seen yet…
Bekah says
November 19, 2017 at 7:19 pm
I LOVE this list, you surely must have the best list of things to do in Ohio. I have to follow you on Pinterest so I can more easily save everything 🙂
Jane says
March 31, 2017 at 5:15 pm
Please don’t forget Mapleside Farms in Brunswick, Medina County. They host a large variety of special events over and above their apple farm heritage. Check out their website. Another place I have not visited yet but hear about is Castle Noel, a unique Christmas museum in Medina near the historic Medina Square (another nice place with events all year on the grounds). The Saturday farmers markets are wonderful at Medina Square along with the art shows, music shows, Christmas candlelight walk, ice carving festival, and many, many other fun events.
- Karley says
  July 21, 2017 at 5:06 pm
  Castle Noel is amazing I actually know the owner it is a really cool experience.
Sue Vess says
February 25, 2017 at 5:04 pm
Maybe I missed it but I didn’t see any mention of the wonder Native American historical sites in southern Ohio. Chillicothe, Dayton, Columbus of the Ancient Fort people and Adena cultures. I’ve made a few videos of my swing through that area this summer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vwu_Cq3h9E. This one is on Fort Ancient. One of the largest effigy mounds in the WORLD is in Ohio, The Serpent Mound. Thanks for you list…I’ll be coming back through there because Ohio really has so much to see.
- Tonya Prater says
  June 24, 2017 at 3:01 pm
  Hi Sue,
  You didn’t miss it. Up to this point, I’ve pretty much only added sites that I’ve been to personally to review and have had time to write about (that’s the kicker- getting those posts written). Have you been to Marietta? They have several mounds that you may want to check out as well. Thanks for sharing your video. I’ll check it out.
- Kimberly Steel says
  January 9, 2018 at 8:33 am
  The Serpant Mound is located east of Columbus in Newark, Ohio. Very cool history about our native Indians. I would visit them often as a child around the golf course as a child and heard the stories from my grandfather.
  - Tonya Prater says
    February 13, 2018 at 3:35 pm
    Serpent Mound has been on my list of places to see but I’ve not spent much time in Peebles. I am aware of the mounds near Newark though. I’d like to see them as well.
Larry Ramey says
February 22, 2017 at 9:35 am
The National Park Service Aviation Trail begins in Dayton with a museum complex displaying the story of the Wright Brothers and flight: Their print shop, a restored Wright Cycle Shop, and the site of their home. Downtown Dayton has a sculpture of them and their airplane, and another depicting the first 112-foot flight. A mile south at Carillon Park is a reconstructed bicycle shop and their 1905 Wright Flyer. Five miles east is a Wright Memorial overlooking the field where they learned to fly. The Visitor Center has a flight simulator so you can experience flying early planes. Then go to the spacious U.S. Air Force Museum for a free tour of the history of military flight, including hundreds of airplanes and a space capsule. Appropriately, you can bicycle the trail on bike-laned streets and on dedicated, paved bike trails. Or take a short driving tour.

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The Ultimate List of 100+ of the Best Things to do in Ohio