Discovering Ohio’s Hidden Gems: A Guide to Outdoor Adventures, Cultural Experiences, Foodie Finds, Historical Sites, and Family Fun
Ohio may not be the first state that comes to mind when planning a vacation, but it is time to change that. Nestled in the Midwest region of the United States, Ohio offers a variety of attractions that are sure to satisfy any traveler’s interests. From outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to historical sites and family fun, Ohio has it all.
Diverse Attractions and Activities
Though small in size, Ohio offers a range of activities for visitors. If you love the outdoors, then you should head straight to Hocking Hills. This region features stunning waterfalls and miles of hiking trails through lush forests.
If you prefer water activities, then kayaking or canoeing on the Cuyahoga River is a must-try experience. The calm waters provide an exhilarating escape from city life as you paddle past beautiful scenery and wildlife.
Need another option? Consider fishing in Lake Erie – one of Ohio’s Great Lakes.
A Brief Overview
Ohio is situated in the Midwest region of the United States with Columbus serving as its capital city. The state has over 11 million residents making it the 7th most populous state in America.. The state’s nickname “The Buckeye State” comes from its native trees which produce nut-like seeds resembling buckeyes. If you’re looking for cultural experiences while visiting Ohio then there are plenty options too!
Cleveland boasts one of America’s most famed music museums – The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame where visitors will learn about this genre’s greatest artists including Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson among others.. For art lovers there is Cincinnati Art Museum which boasts impressive collections from various periods including contemporary art and photography among others.. And if catching a live show strikes your fancy then head to Columbus’ famous Ohio Theatre for an unforgettable performance. There’s no shortage of good food in Ohio.
Be sure to try Cincinnati-style chili at Skyline Chili – a local favorite served uniquely on spaghetti. Buckeye candy, another local delight, is made from peanut butter and chocolate and resembles the tree’s nut-like seed.
And for beer enthusiasts, Ohio boasts a plethora of breweries all over the state that have won various awards for their locally brewed craft beers. Ohio has a rich history and there are many historic sites to see throughout the state.
The National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton tells the story of aviation history from its earliest days through modern space exploration with over 350 aircrafts on display.. Canton is home to President William McKinley’s tomb where visitors can explore his museum which includes artifacts such as campaign memorabilia and personal items.. Lastly, learn about Ohio’s involvement in underground railroad by visiting National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center. A visit to this historic landmark will help you learn more about African American culture and history.
Ohio is perfect for families looking for a great vacation spot with plenty of attractions catering to children too! Cedar Point amusement park offers exciting rides including roller coasters while COSI provides an interactive science center experience suitable for all ages.. The Wilds is also a must-visit place where you can drive through various habitats with exotic animals living in them.
Ohio may not be known as one of America’s most popular travel destinations but it definitely offers experiences that will leave you wanting more. Its diverse attractions and activities make it an excellent getaway spot whether with family or friends!
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking in the Hocking Hills Region: Discover Ohio’s Natural Beauty
One of the most popular outdoor activities in Ohio is hiking, and Hocking Hills State Park is one of the best places to do it. Located in southeastern Ohio, this park has over 25 miles of hiking trails through stunning landscapes with waterfalls, caves, and towering cliffs.
The most famous trail is Old Man’s Cave, a deep gorge with beautiful waterfalls and rock formations that will take your breath away. If you’re up for a challenge, try Rock House Trail, which leads to a unique cave-like structure formed by sandstone cliffs.
The scenery is incredible throughout the trail with steep cliffs surrounding you on both sides. The trail can be challenging for beginners but if you’re up for it then the stunning views are worth it.
Kayaking or Canoeing on the Cuyahoga River: Get Active on the Water
Another great way to explore Ohio’s natural beauty is by kayaking or canoeing on the Cuyahoga River. This river flows through Cleveland and offers some of the best urban kayaking in America. The river features rapids that range from Class I to III depending on where you go; providing an adrenaline rush for experienced kayakers while also being manageable enough for beginners to enjoy.
Paddle downriver as you soak up views of downtown Cleveland or head upstream to savor quiet nature spots along Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Either way, you’ll have an unforgettable time exploring Ohio’s aquatic wonderland.
Fishing in Lake Erie: Reel in Some Fun
Lake Erie provides excellent fishing opportunities all year round- whether you’re after walleye, steelhead trout or smallmouth bass. This lake spans 241 miles across four states including Ohio making it one of the best places for fishing in the region. There are many ways to fish Lake Erie; you can go shore fishing, pier fishing, or take a boat out on the lake.
The scenic views of the lake and surrounding communities make any day out on Lake Erie an adventure that’s hard to forget. Don’t have your own gear?
No worries! There are plenty of places to rent gear or charter a boat- making it easy for anyone to enjoy this fun activity.
Cultural Experiences
Ohio is a state steeped in rich cultural history, and there’s no better way to experience it than by exploring some of its world-class museums and theaters. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a music enthusiast, Ohio has something to offer for everyone.
Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland
Located on the shore of Lake Erie in downtown Cleveland, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is an iconic museum that celebrates the history and influence of rock music. Exhibits range from early pioneers like Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley to modern-day legends like Nirvana and Beyoncé.
You can spend hours wandering through the displays of vintage guitars, stage costumes, handwritten lyrics, and other memorabilia. Make sure to check out the interactive exhibits where you can try your hand at playing instruments or mixing tracks.
Explore the Cincinnati Art Museum
Situated on a hill overlooking Cincinnati’s scenic Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum is one of the oldest art museums in America. It boasts an impressive collection of more than 67,000 works spanning 6,000 years of human creativity. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary painting and sculpture, there’s no shortage of beauty to admire here.
The permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Monet, Picasso, Rembrandt, and Warhol. In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts rotating temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Attend a performance at the Ohio Theatre in Columbus
The Ohio Theatre is a stunningly restored movie palace-turned-performing-arts center located in downtown Columbus. Its opulent decor features grand chandeliers and ornate plasterwork reminiscent of an old European opera house.
The theater hosts performances ranging from Broadway shows to ballets to concerts by world-renowned musicians. Even if you’re not a fan of the arts, the Ohio Theatre is worth visiting just to see its stunning architecture and soak up its glamorous atmosphere.
Foodie Finds
Ohio is known for its diverse food scene, with unique dishes and flavors that are sure to satisfy any appetite. From Cincinnati-style chili to craft beer, there are plenty of delicious culinary experiences to enjoy throughout the state.
Try Cincinnati-Style Chili at Skyline Chili
Cincy-style chili is a beloved regional dish that’s served over spaghetti noodles and topped with shredded cheddar cheese. The chili itself is made with a blend of spices, ground beef, and tomato sauce, but what makes it truly unique is the addition of cinnamon and chocolate.
Skyline Chili is one of the most popular chains in Ohio for this tasty concoction. The best way to enjoy Cincy-style chili is by ordering a “three-way,” which includes spaghetti noodles, chili, and cheese.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding onions or beans to your order for a “four-way” or “five-way” variation. No matter how you order it, Cincinnati-style chili will leave your taste buds happy and satisfied.
Indulge in Buckeye Candy, a Local Favorite
Buckeye candy is a sweet treat that’s named after the state tree of Ohio. These bite-sized candies are made by rolling peanut butter filling into small balls and dipping them in chocolate – leaving just a little bit showing on top so they resemble buckeyes (the nut). They’re rich in flavor but small enough that you can try a few without feeling too guilty!
You’ll find Buckeye candy at many chocolate shops throughout Ohio – or even make them yourself if you’re feeling adventurous! They make great gifts for friends back home who couldn’t join you on your trip.
Sample Craft Beer at One of Ohio’s Many Breweries
The craft beer scene in Ohio is booming, with breweries popping up all over the state. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply enjoy trying new things, there’s a brewery for everyone.
One of the most popular breweries in Ohio is Rhinegeist Brewery in Cincinnati. This massive brewery offers a wide variety of craft beers and has an incredibly cool interior design, complete with giant murals and colorful decor.
If you’re looking for something smaller and more intimate, check out Wolf’s Ridge Brewing in Columbus – where you can sample unique brews like their “Dire Wolf” black cherry stout. No matter where you go, be sure to sample some of Ohio’s craft beer offerings – they’re sure to impress!
Historical Sites
Tour the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton
If you’re a history buff or aviation enthusiast, you won’t want to miss a visit to the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton. The museum is home to over 360 aircraft and missiles from throughout aviation history.
You can check out exhibits on various wars and conflicts, including World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and more recent events such as Desert Storm. You can even see presidential planes used by Presidents Roosevelt, Truman, Eisenhower, Kennedy and Johnson.
Guided tours are available for an additional fee and there are many interactive exhibits for all ages. This is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in aviation or military history!
Visit President William McKinley’s tomb and museum in Canton
President William McKinley was born in Niles, Ohio but his tomb and museum are located in Canton. The McKinley Presidential Library & Museum features exhibits on his life as well as his assassination at the 1901 Pan-American Exposition in Buffalo, NY. You can also see artifacts from his presidency and personal life.
The memorial also includes a mausoleum where President McKinley and his wife are buried. This is an excellent stop if you’re interested in American presidential history.
Learn about Ohio’s role in the Underground Railroad at the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center
The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes used by enslaved African Americans to escape to freedom before the Civil War. Ohio played a key role because it bordered slave states like Kentucky and Virginia.
At the National Afro-American Museum & Cultural Center located near Wilberforce University, you can learn about Ohio’s contribution to this important chapter of American history. The museum has exhibits on Underground Railroad conductors like Harriet Tubman as well as local freedom seekers who escaped through Ohio.
You can also learn about other important African American figures from Ohio, like writer and activist Paul Laurence Dunbar. This is a great destination for anyone interested in Black history.
Family Fun
Ohio is a great place for families to explore and have some fun together. Here are three family-friendly attractions that you should add to your list of things to do in Ohio.
Spend a Day at Cedar Point Amusement Park
Cedar Point is one of the most popular amusement parks in the country, and for good reason. With over 70 rides and attractions, including 18 roller coasters, it’s a must-visit destination for families looking for an adrenaline rush.
Some of the most famous coasters at Cedar Point include the Millennium Force, which was once the tallest coaster in the world; Top Thrill Dragster, which launches riders from 0 to 120 mph in just seconds; and Maverick, which features twists, turns, and drops that will leave you breathless. But it’s not just about thrill rides at Cedar Point – there are also plenty of family-friendly attractions like Camp Snoopy, Planet Snoopy, and Kiddy Kingdom.
Visit COSI: An Interactive Science Center for All Ages
COSI (Center of Science and Industry) is an interactive science center located in downtown Columbus. It’s a great place for kids (and adults) who love science and learning new things.
At COSI, you can explore hands-on exhibits about space exploration, energy conservation, human biology, weather patterns – just to name a few! There’s also an outdoor science park where you can learn about engineering principles by building structures with giant foam blocks or see how water flows through different channels.
Explore The Wilds: A Conservation Center with Exotic Animals
The Wilds is a unique conservation center located in Muskingum County that offers visitors the opportunity to see exotic animals up close while learning about animal conservation efforts around the world. The Wilds covers over 10,000 acres and is home to over 30 species of animals, including cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and rhinoceroses.
You can take a guided safari tour through the park to see the animals in their natural habitats or attend a special overnight program where you can camp out in the park and hear the sounds of exotic wildlife all around you. It’s an experience that your family won’t soon forget!
The Best of Ohio: Encouragement to Plan Your Visit
Ohio truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, history buff or foodie, Ohio will not disappoint.
With its diverse attractions and activities available throughout the state there’s plenty of fun to be had. So don’t hesitate any longer – plan your visit to Ohio today and see why it’s one of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets!