Looking for some great places to visit on your next Ohio vacation? As a tourist, maybe you’re familiar with the state’s natural beauty and diverse landscape, from rolling hills and farmlands to historic cities and Lake Erie shore towns.
But beyond those iconic Buckeye sights, there are many hidden gems waiting to be explored, spanning parks, museums, islands, and more.
Here are the 7 best places to visit in Ohio that can’t be missed on your next in-state trip.
1. Hocking Hills State Park
Start with a trip to Hocking Hills State Park, a magnificent natural area spanning nearly 10,000 acres across southeastern Ohio’s Hocking County.
You’ll be awed by the park’s towering Blackhand sandstone cliffs, deep caves, lush valleys, and breathtaking waterfalls such as Old Man’s Cave and Cedar Falls.
Go hiking or biking along scenic trails, try rock climbing or rappelling, and spend a night camping under the stars.
Every corner of Hocking Hills seems like a fairytale landscape sure to spark your imagination.
2. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
After soaking up all that natural wonder, head north to Cleveland to explore the famed Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Wander exhibit halls are jam-packed with artifacts, films, interactive displays, and iconic memorabilia celebrating rock legends from Aretha Franklin to U2.
Marvel at guitars once strummed by Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Bruce Springsteen, and more.
Catch a live concert or film premiere. Who knows—you may even spot a rock star or two!
However you choose to experience it, an Ohio trip isn’t complete without a day at the Hall of Fame.
3. Cedar Point
Looking for the best places to visit in Ohio with your kids, enter Cedar Point. For the quintessential roller coaster-loving Buckeye, make a beeline to Cedar Point amusement park along Lake Erie’s shore in Sandusky.
Boasting an incredible 72 record-breaking rides, including 17 world-class roller coasters, you’ll be screaming, laughing, and hanging ten a mile high from morning to sundown!
Between the thrills, grab a local craft beer, treat yourself to hand-dipped fudge, or chill out on the sandy shores of the adjacent Cedar Point Beach.
At night, enjoy an outdoor concert or the magical glow of the park’s illuminated gardens and lights. Hold onto your seat—Cedar Point promises the ride of your life!
Read More – Amazing Waterfalls in Ohio that you can’t afford to miss!
4. National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
It is positioned on the Ohio River. Here, countless slaves crossed for freedom. Besides, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center in downtown Cincinnati portrays powerful stories of freedom’s heroes, from the era of the Underground Railroad to today’s ongoing fight for civil and human rights.
Gripping exhibits recount heart-wrenching journeys along the perilous Road to Freedom.
Drop into the museum’s original 1851 church shelter and glimpse the Ohio River through the trees as a light flickers inside.
The Freedom Center enlightens, disturbs, and inspires—a stirring testament to humanity’s great capacity to promote justice.
5. Greater Columbus Arts District
Sometimes nicknamed the Boho Art District, the eclectic Greater Columbus Arts District is a mecca for Ohio’s creative culture.
Take an art walk through downtown Columbus’ Short North neighborhood, stopping into captivating galleries along brick-paved High Street.
Groove to street musicians and savor the aromas wafting from coffee shops, cafes, pubs, and international eateries.
Many murals and sculptures beckon selfie moments! After nightfall, dance clubs and performing arts venues come alive with some of the state’s most electrifying entertainment.
The arts permeate every corner—even parking garages double as urban canvas spaces for dramatic works of graffiti. Don’t miss this kinetic slice of Ohioan originality!
6. Marblehead Lighthouse State Park
Experience scenic Lake Erie coastal beauty at Marblehead Lighthouse State Park, located at the tip of the Marblehead peninsula about 50 miles east of Toledo.
Climb to the top of Ohio’s oldest operating lighthouse, first lit in 1822, to behold stunning 360° views across Lake Erie.
Pose before the bold stripes of the photogenic lighthouse set dramatically against blue water and sky.
Then meander along shoreline trails dotted with gargantuan glacial grooved rocks blanketed in fossils—evidence of the last Ice Age.
Cool off at the beach, try ice fishing in winter, or simply picnic lakeside while breathing in the fresh breeze.
Marblehead offers some of Best Places to Visit in Ohio most postcard-perfect vistas.
7. Put-in-Bay
One of the peaceful getaways and best places to visit in Ohio is Put-in-Bay. Take the ferry across Lake Erie to Put-in-Bay, a delightful island village centered around family fun, outdoor recreation, and nightlife. Pedal along the shore on a Surrey bike built for two!
Explore scenic Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial honoring those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812.
Visit the butterfly-filled Butterfly House or take a tour of Heineman Winery established in 1888.
Later on, let loose at one of Put-in-Bay’s many patio bars and live music hot spots.
And if island life suits you, dozens of hotels and B&Bs offer overnight accommodations ranging from historic to hip. Put-in-Bay brings a taste of tropical charm right to Best Places to Visit in Ohio!
