Ohio is a fantastic place to visit, and you might just be surprised by how much there is to see and do there. This can leave travelers feeling a little overwhelmed as they try to sift out the best attractions and sights.
If you’re planning a trip to the Buckeye State, we’ve compiled an Ohio bucket list to give you ideas of where to go and what to see while you’re in the state. Check out our suggestions, add your own, and enjoy your time in Ohio!
Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument
At the Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument, you can educate yourself about Charles Young, who worked his way up the ranks of the military despite racism and inequality. You’ll also learn about the Buffalo Soldiers and their important role in the Civil War.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
A gorgeous natural area just a short distance from Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the perfect escape from city life. Hike through the natural beauty of Ohio and enjoy the winding Cuyahoga River, as well as the forests and hills. The park is also known for its more than 100 waterfalls that cascade throughout the area.
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park is a great place to learn about the history of aviation. Discover the stories of Wilbur and Orville Wright and Paul Laurence Dunbar at this amazing NPS site.
First Ladies National Historic Site
The role of a First Lady has evolved over time. Learn about the evolution and visit the home of First Lady Ida Saxton-McKinley at the First Ladies National Historic Site.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
The monumental mounds of southern Ohio were built nearly 2,000 years ago by Native Americans and used for feasts, funerals, rituals, and rites of passage. Walk among these earthworks and learn about the culture of the people who built them at Hopewell Culture National Historical Park.
James A. Garfield National Historic Site
Not many people know a lot about James A. Garfield, the 20th president of the United States. The James A. Garfield National Historic Site will help you learn more about Garfield’s life and accomplishments, and you can tour his former home and property.
William Howard Taft National Historic Site
Another president that is worth learning more about is President William Howard Taft. This man was born in Cincinnati in a beautiful home sitting atop a hill. Taft was raised in this house, and it was here that he learned the lessons that shaped his character and made him the great leader he was. Learn about these things and more when you visit the William Howard Taft National Historic Site.
Admire Art at the Cleveland Museum of Art
Ohio has a ton of excellent art museums, but one popular favorite is the Cleveland Art Museum. Here you can see contemporary American art, vintage Asian art, and everything in between. Admission is free.
Get Your Thrills at Cedar Point and Kings Island
Ohio also has wonderful amusement parks. The two best amusement parks in Ohio are Cedar Point and Kings Island. Both are owned by the same company, and are great for families, adrenaline junkies, and anyone who likes a good amusement park experience.
Walk the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a great stop for anyone who’s a fan of rock music. Here you can learn more about the legends you already know and love, and perhaps discover new artists. Enjoy displays of classic memorabilia and items owned by the stars, and spend a day surrounded by other rock and roll fans.
Hike Hocking Hills State Park
Located just an hour outside of Columbus, Hocking Hills State Park is a great escape into nature. This place is full of amazing hiking trails that lead to gorgeous waterfalls, mysterious caves, and breathtaking views. If you’re an outdoorsy person, this is one place you won’t want to miss.
Discover Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens
In search of some beautiful flowers and a trip back in time? Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is your place. This historic house was built in part by F.A. Seiberling, a founding member of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. It is full of amazing stories, and the gardens are some of the best in the state.
Stroll the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
More spectacular gardens can be found at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This attraction covers a full 90 acres and boasts all kinds of plants, including cacti, bonsai trees, and redbud trees.
Explore the National Museum of the US Air Force
Another place to learn about aviation in Ohio is at the National Museum of the US Air Force. This is an enormous and well-curated museum that covers the history of aviation in the military and has all kinds of cool aircraft. On top of all that, the museum is free to the public.
Grab Some Ice Cream
Ohio is the place to get good ice cream. Both Graeter’s and Jeni’s are popular ice cream companies that call Ohio home, and both are must-try treats when you’re in the state.
Learn at the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center
It’s no secret that Ohio is home to an enormous Amish population, and it has a sizeable Mennonite population as well. If you’ve ever wondered about their culture, the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center is the perfect place to learn about them.
Wander the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens
One of the best zoos in the country, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a fabulous place to spend a day. The zoo features an enormous number of animals, and the gardens are a peaceful and beautiful spot for a stroll.
Get Inspired at the Pro Football Hall of Fame
The Pro Football Hall of Fame shares the history of the sport and information about some of history’s most famous and valuable pro football players. This place is a pro football lover’s dream come true.
Dive into History at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
History buffs will appreciate a visit to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. This museum might just be one of the most thorough Underground Railroad museums in the country and features excellent exhibits on Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, and many more.
Get Hands-On at the Center of Science and Industry
The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is a great place for the entire family. This is one of the best science museums in the country, and the hands-on exhibits make it fun for people of all ages.
Shop Around at West Side Market
Perhaps the most famous market in all of Ohio, the West Side Market has been around for over 100 years. Here you will find all kinds of local products as well as a number of delicious foods, including crepes, pizza, and seafood.
Tour the Ohio State Reformatory
The Ohio State Reformatory was actually closed in 1990, but not before running for over a century. People claim there is a whole lot of paranormal activity going on here, but the regular tour is also super interesting.
See Animals at The Wilds
The Wilds is a park featuring over 9,000 acres of natural area, and where animals such as rhinos and ostriches make themselves at home. A safari-like vehicle can be ridden through, so you can see all the attraction has to offer.
Try New Foods at Jungle Jim’s International Market
Most people don’t go on vacation just to go grocery shopping … but you might want to make an exception for Jungle Jim’s. This is a sizeable grocery store, and it sells foods from all over the world. You can walk into this one store and walk out with treats from Australia, France, China, and pretty much anywhere else you can imagine.
Try Skyline Chili
When you’re in Cincinnati, be sure to try this local delicacy. Skyline Chili serves its chili over spaghetti noodles, hot dogs, or on its own, and the chain can be found all over the state.
Immerse Yourself at The German Village
An incredibly interesting part of Columbus, the German Village was settled by Germans during the late 1800s. They made the place their own, steeping every corner of the village in German culture. Today, folks can visit to get a true taste of Germany.
Check Out the Loveland Castle
There are a few medieval-style castles scattered around Ohio, but a favorite is Loveland Castle. This quirky castle was created by Harry Andrews and helped along by his Sunday School and Boy Scout troop.
Ohio is full of awesome things to see and do. In order to see it all, consider renting an RV. By choosing to stay in an Ohio RV rental, you give yourself the freedom to explore every corner of the state and stop whenever and wherever something catches your interest.
