Ohio Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ohio with our comprehensive travel guide, including top places to visit, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Ohio

Welcome to Ohio, a state located in the Midwest region of the United States. Ohio is known for its industrial cities, beautiful natural landscapes, and rich history. With exciting attractions and things to do, Ohio is a great place to visit for travelers of all ages and interests.

List of Places to Visit in Ohio

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ohio has a rich history, and there are plenty of museums and historical places to explore. Some top attractions include:

  • The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland
  • The National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton
  • The Ohio History Center and Museum in Columbus
  • The Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal

Natural Attractions of Ohio: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

From scenic state parks to outdoor adventures, Ohio has plenty of natural attractions to explore. Some top attractions include:

  • Hocking Hills State Park for hiking and stunning waterfalls
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park for scenic views and outdoor adventures
  • Lake Erie for fishing and boating
  • Cedar Point Amusement Park for thrilling roller coasters and rides

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ohio

Ohio has great hiking and biking routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Some popular trails include:

  • The Ohio and Erie Canalway Trail
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park Trails
  • Hocking Hills State Park Trails
  • Buckeye Trail

Best Things to Do in Ohio: Activities and Tours

Ohio has a range of activities and tours to experience. Some top things to do include:

  • Taking a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
  • Exploring the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
  • Visiting the Amish Country for a unique cultural experience
  • Participating in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival in Canton

Week-Long Itinerary for Ohio

If you have a week to explore Ohio, consider the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Cleveland - Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Cleveland Museum of Art
  • Day 2: Cincinnati - Check out the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
  • Day 3: Dayton - Visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force
  • Day 4: Amish Country - Experience a unique cultural experience in Ohio’s Amish region
  • Day 5: Columbus - Explore the Ohio Statehouse and Ohio History Center and Museum
  • Day 6: Hocking Hills State Park - Hike the stunning trails and view the waterfalls
  • Day 7: Cedar Point Amusement Park - Enjoy thrilling rides and roller coasters

Food and Drink Scene of Ohio

Must-Try Dishes

Ohio has a variety of local dishes to try, including:

  • Cincinnati-style chili
  • Buckeyes (chocolate and peanut butter candies)
  • Pierogies (filled dumplings)
  • Lake Erie perch

Local Beverages

Ohio is also known for its local beverages, including:

  • Craft beers from breweries such as Great Lakes Brewing Company and Rhinegeist Brewery
  • Wine from Ohio’s wineries, including Ferrante Winery and Vineyards and Gervasi Vineyard

Where to Stay in Ohio: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ohio has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some top options include:

  • The Westin Cincinnati for luxurious accommodations
  • The Hostel Cleveland for affordable stays
  • The Blackwell Inn and Pfahl Conference Center in Columbus for comfortable stays near Ohio State University

What to Buy in Ohio: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ohio has a variety of souvenirs and local products to take home, including:

  • Buckeyes (chocolate and peanut butter candies)
  • Amish-made goods such as quilts and furniture
  • Unique items from the Cleveland Museum of Art gift shop
  • Local craft beer and wine

Local Culture and Customs of Ohio

Ohio is known for its friendly locals and Midwestern hospitality. Visitors should expect a laid-back atmosphere and warm welcome.

Best Time to Visit Ohio

The best time to visit Ohio is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, some attractions may be crowded during this time. Spring and fall are also great times to visit for mild weather and beautiful foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ohio

Do:

  • Try local dishes and beverages
  • Explore Ohio’s natural attractions
  • Take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Don’t:

  • Underestimate the amount of time you need to explore Ohio’s attractions
  • Forget to pack appropriate clothing for the season

Safety and Health

Safety in Ohio

Ohio is generally a safe state for travelers. Visitors should take general safety precautions, such as keeping their valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings in urban areas.

Health in Ohio

Ohio has a range of medical facilities and services for travelers in need. Visitors should pack their necessary medication and health insurance information.

Getting to Ohio: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ohio

Ohio has multiple airports, including Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, John Glenn Columbus International Airport, and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Ohio

Greyhound and Megabus have multiple bus stations in Ohio, including Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Other Options

Ohio is also accessible by car via major highways such as I-70, I-75, and I-77. Additionally, Amtrak train stations are located in Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Toledo.

How to Get Around in Ohio

Travelers in Ohio can get around via public transportation, car rental, and taxi services. Additionally, some cities have bike-sharing programs.

Where to Go Next from Ohio: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ohio is surrounded by other great travel destinations, including:

  • Michigan
  • Pennsylvania
  • Kentucky
  • Indiana

Conclusion

Ohio is a great state to visit for travelers looking for a mix of vibrant cities, natural attractions, and unique cultural experiences. With our comprehensive travel guide, you can plan your trip to Ohio with confidence and make the most of your visit.