Things to do in Ohio: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Cedar Point, Ohio
Overview: Cedar Point is a world-renowned amusement park famous for its record-breaking roller coasters and family-friendly attractions.
History: It opened in 1870 as a simple bathing beach and has grown into one of the largest amusement parks in the world.
Since When: Operating since 1870.
Review: Visitors love the thrilling rides, clean park grounds, and beautiful lakeside location.
When to Go: Best to visit during summer months (May to September) when all rides and attractions are open.
How to Go: Located in Sandusky, Ohio, it’s easily accessible by car or shuttle services from nearby cities.
What to Do: Ride roller coasters, play games, enjoy live shows, and relax by the beach.
Free or Paid: Paid (admission tickets required).
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, Ohio
Overview: The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a large, well-regarded zoo featuring diverse animal habitats and a popular water park.
History: Founded in 1927, the zoo gained national fame under the leadership of conservationist Jack Hanna.
Since When: Operating since 1927.
Review: Guests appreciate the zoo’s beautiful layout, educational programs, and interactive exhibits.
When to Go: Best visited in spring or fall for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Located just north of Columbus, easily reachable by car.
What to Do: Explore animal exhibits, visit the aquarium, ride the carousel, and enjoy the water park.
Free or Paid: Paid (separate tickets for zoo and water park).
Kings Island, Ohio
Overview: Kings Island is a major amusement park near Cincinnati known for its roller coasters, water park, and family attractions.
History: Opened in 1972, it was built to replace Cincinnati’s historic Coney Island Amusement Park after repeated flooding.
Since When: Operating since 1972.
Review: Visitors praise the park’s variety of thrill rides, family attractions, and seasonal events.
When to Go: Ideal for a summer visit, especially from June to August.
How to Go: Located in Mason, Ohio, it is accessible by car from Cincinnati and nearby areas.
What to Do: Ride roller coasters, visit the Soak City Water Park, attend live shows, and explore kid-friendly areas.
Free or Paid: Paid (admission required, with separate tickets for fast passes).
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, Ohio
Overview: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the oldest zoos in the United States, known for its conservation efforts and famous residents like Fiona the hippo.
History: Founded in 1873, it officially opened to the public in 1875, making it the second-oldest zoo in the U.S.
Since When: Opened in 1875.
Review: Visitors admire its beautiful botanical gardens, well-kept exhibits, and engaging animal encounters.
When to Go: Visit in spring or fall when the weather is comfortable and the gardens are in full bloom.
How to Go: Located in Cincinnati, accessible by car or public transportation.
What to Do: Visit animal exhibits, stroll through botanical gardens, and enjoy educational shows.
Free or Paid: Paid (admission fee required).
National Museum of the US Air Force, Ohio
Overview: The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is the world’s largest military aviation museum, showcasing aircraft and artifacts.
History: Established in 1923, it moved to its current location at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton in 1971.
Since When: Open to the public since 1923.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the vast collection of historic aircraft and well-organized exhibits.
When to Go: Open year-round; weekdays are less crowded for easier viewing.
How to Go: Located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, accessible by car.
What to Do: Explore historic aircraft, space exhibits, and flight simulators.
Free or Paid: Free (no admission fee).
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Ohio
Overview: The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland celebrates the history and impact of rock music and its legendary artists.
History: Designed by architect I.M. Pei, it officially opened in 1995 after years of planning to honor the genre’s history.
Since When: Opened in 1995.
Review: Visitors love the interactive exhibits, iconic memorabilia, and deep dive into music history.
When to Go: Best to visit during spring and fall for fewer crowds and comfortable weather.
How to Go: Located in downtown Cleveland, accessible by car, bus, or walking from nearby hotels.
What to Do: Explore exhibits, watch music documentaries, and attend special live performances.
Free or Paid: Paid (admission ticket required).
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Ohio
Overview: Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a popular, expansive zoo featuring diverse habitats and a well-known RainForest exhibit.
History: It began in 1882 with a small collection of animals and has since grown into a major attraction.
Since When: Officially operating since 1882.
Review: Guests appreciate the clean environment, wide variety of animals, and family-friendly facilities.
When to Go: Best in spring or fall for pleasant temperatures and active animals.
How to Go: Located in Cleveland, accessible by car or public transport.
What to Do: Visit animal exhibits, stroll through the RainForest, and join seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Paid (admission fee required).
Newport Aquarium, Ohio
Overview: The Newport Aquarium showcases thousands of aquatic creatures and offers unique interactive experiences.
History: Opened in 1999, it quickly became a premier family attraction in the Cincinnati metro area.
Since When: Operating since 1999.
Review: Visitors rave about the underwater tunnels, shark bridges, and hands-on exhibits.
When to Go: Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, especially in spring and summer.
How to Go: Located at Newport on the Levee, just across the Ohio River from Cincinnati, easily reachable by car or foot.
What to Do: Walk through tunnels, touch stingrays, and observe rare sea creatures.
Free or Paid: Paid (entry tickets required).
Toledo Zoo, Ohio
Overview: The Toledo Zoo is a family-favorite attraction featuring over 10,000 animals from around the world.
History: Founded in 1900, it expanded over the decades with major exhibits like Arctic Encounter and Africa!
Since When: Open to the public since 1900.
Review: Visitors highlight the zoo’s beautiful grounds, educational programs, and seasonal events like “Lights Before Christmas.”
When to Go: Best in spring, summer, or December for special events.
How to Go: Located in Toledo, easily accessible by car and public transport.
What to Do: Explore animal exhibits, ride the zoo train, and attend seasonal festivities.
Free or Paid: Paid (admission ticket needed).
West Side Market, Ohio
Overview: West Side Market is Cleveland’s oldest public market, offering a rich array of fresh produce, meats, and baked goods.
History: Opened in 1912, it has been serving the local community for over a century.
Since When: Operating since 1912.
Review: Guests love the historic atmosphere, diverse food offerings, and lively market vibe.
When to Go: Best visited on weekdays or early mornings to avoid large crowds.
How to Go: Located in Ohio City, Cleveland, accessible by car, bus, or walking from downtown.
What to Do: Shop for fresh goods, sample local treats, and take photos of the iconic architecture.
Free or Paid: Free to enter (pay for food and products).
Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
Overview: Hocking Hills State Park is a scenic natural area famous for its waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails.
History: The park’s formation began millions of years ago through natural erosion and it was designated a state park in the 1920s.
Since When: Officially recognized as a state park in 1924.
Review: Visitors praise the breathtaking landscapes, serene atmosphere, and well-maintained trails.
When to Go: Best to visit in spring and fall for mild weather and vibrant foliage.
How to Go: Located about an hour southeast of Columbus, accessible by car.
What to Do: Hike trails, explore caves like Ash Cave, and photograph waterfalls such as Cedar Falls.
Free or Paid: Free (no entrance fee).
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio
Overview: Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers beautiful forests, rivers, and historic sites nestled between Cleveland and Akron.
History: Originally home to Native American tribes and later farmland, it was declared a national park in 2000.
Since When: Became a national park in 2000.
Review: Visitors enjoy the peaceful nature trails, the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath, and scenic railway rides.
When to Go: Ideal to visit in fall for colorful leaves or spring for blooming wildflowers.
How to Go: Accessible by car via major highways and close to Cleveland and Akron.
What to Do: Hike, bike, explore waterfalls, and ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
Free or Paid: Free (some activities like the train ride have a fee).
Findlay Market, Ohio
Overview: Findlay Market is Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market, offering fresh foods and local crafts.
History: Opened in 1855, it has been a vibrant center for commerce and community gathering in Cincinnati ever since.
Since When: Operating since 1855.
Review: Visitors love the lively atmosphere, diverse food vendors, and vibrant outdoor market experience.
When to Go: Best visited on weekends when the market is most active.
How to Go: Located in downtown Cincinnati, easily reachable by car, bus, or streetcar.
What to Do: Shop for produce, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy live entertainment.
Free or Paid: Free to enter (pay for food and items).
The Cleveland Museum of Art, Ohio
Overview: The Cleveland Museum of Art is a world-renowned museum featuring a wide range of artwork from ancient to modern times.
History: Founded in 1913, it has built one of the most respected and diverse collections in the world.
Since When: Open to the public since 1916.
Review: Visitors admire the impressive art collection, beautiful architecture, and free general admission.
When to Go: Year-round, but weekdays offer a quieter experience.
How to Go: Located in University Circle, Cleveland, accessible by car, public transport, or walking.
What to Do: Explore exhibits, attend special exhibitions, and stroll around the museum gardens.
Free or Paid: Free (special exhibitions may require a fee).
Breakout Games, Ohio
Overview: Breakout Games offers immersive escape room experiences perfect for groups seeking adventure and teamwork challenges.
History: Part of a national chain that grew popular in the 2010s as escape rooms gained mainstream appeal.
Since When: Operating in Ohio since mid-2010s.
Review: Players appreciate the creative puzzles, exciting themes, and engaging group dynamics.
When to Go: Ideal for weekends or evenings for group outings.
How to Go: Locations available in multiple Ohio cities like Columbus and Cleveland, accessible by car.
What to Do: Solve puzzles, unlock rooms, and complete themed escape missions.
Free or Paid: Paid (ticket purchase required).
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Ohio
Overview: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a lush, vibrant attraction featuring exotic plant collections and stunning seasonal exhibitions.
History: Originally built in 1895, it has grown from a Victorian-style greenhouse into a world-class botanical center.
Since When: Open to the public since 1895.
Review: Visitors love the beautiful gardens, creative exhibits, and relaxing atmosphere.
When to Go: Spring and summer offer the most vibrant floral displays.
How to Go: Located just east of downtown Columbus, easily reachable by car or public transport.
What to Do: Explore indoor biomes, outdoor gardens, and art installations.
Free or Paid: Paid (admission fee required).
Miami Valley Gaming, Ohio
Overview: Miami Valley Gaming is a lively entertainment complex featuring a casino, horse racing, and dining options.
History: Opened to rejuvenate the area’s entertainment scene after the closure of Lebanon Raceway.
Since When: Open since 2013.
Review: Guests enjoy the clean facilities, friendly staff, and variety of gaming options.
When to Go: Evenings and weekends offer the most lively atmosphere.
How to Go: Located in Lebanon, Ohio, easily accessible via I-75.
What to Do: Play slot machines, bet on harness racing, and dine at onsite restaurants.
Free or Paid: Free to enter (pay for gaming and dining).
Cincinnati Museum Center, Ohio
Overview: Cincinnati Museum Center is a cultural complex housing museums, theaters, and a research library inside a historic train station.
History: Located in the Union Terminal, an Art Deco masterpiece, it was repurposed into a museum center in the 1990s.
Since When: Museum Center opened in 1990.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the grandeur of the building and the wide range of interactive exhibits.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, especially on rainy days.
How to Go: Located in downtown Cincinnati, accessible by car, bus, or rideshare.
What to Do: Explore history, science, and children’s museums and watch Omnimax films.
Free or Paid: Paid (separate tickets for different exhibits).
The Escape Game Columbus, Ohio
Overview: The Escape Game Columbus offers immersive, story-driven escape room experiences for all ages.
History: Part of a national escape room company known for high-quality themed adventures.
Since When: Opened in Columbus in 2018.
Review: Players rave about the detailed sets, clever puzzles, and helpful staff.
When to Go: Ideal for weekends or group events like birthdays or team building.
How to Go: Located at Easton Town Center, easily accessible by car.
What to Do: Solve puzzles, crack codes, and escape themed rooms within a time limit.
Free or Paid: Paid (advance booking recommended).
Rocky River Reservation, Ohio
Overview: Rocky River Reservation is a picturesque park featuring wooded trails, riverside views, and abundant wildlife.
History: Part of the Cleveland Metroparks system, dedicated to preserving natural areas around Cleveland since the early 20th century.
Since When: Established in 1919 as part of the original Metroparks reservations.
Review: Hikers and nature lovers praise its scenic beauty and peaceful environment.
When to Go: Spring and fall offer beautiful weather and changing foliage.
How to Go: Accessible by car, with multiple entrances west of Cleveland.
What to Do: Hike, bike, fish, golf, and enjoy picnicking by the river.
Free or Paid: Free.
Otherworld, Ohio
Overview: Otherworld is an immersive art installation blending interactive technology and fantasy storytelling.
History: Created by a team of artists and technologists aiming to build a dreamlike exploration space.
Since When: Opened in 2019.
Review: Visitors love its surreal, colorful environments and unique, hands-on experiences.
When to Go: Best to visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located in Columbus, Ohio, easily accessible by car with on-site parking.
What to Do: Wander through themed rooms, interact with digital art, and solve hidden puzzles.
Free or Paid: Paid (ticket purchase required).
Greater Cleveland Aquarium, Ohio
Overview: The Greater Cleveland Aquarium features aquatic life from Ohio rivers to exotic oceans around the world.
History: Opened in a historic brick powerhouse building, revitalized into a modern aquarium.
Since When: Open since 2012.
Review: Guests appreciate the intimate setting, touch tanks, and impressive shark tunnel.
When to Go: Visit in the morning for smaller crowds.
How to Go: Located in downtown Cleveland, easily reached by car or public transit.
What to Do: Observe marine life, interact at touch pools, and walk through the underwater shark tunnel.
Free or Paid: Paid (ticket purchase required).
Game Show Battle Rooms, Ohio
Overview: Game Show Battle Rooms offers a live game show experience where participants compete in TV-style challenges.
History: Inspired by popular game shows, it brings the experience to local audiences in a fun, interactive way.
Since When: Opened in Ohio in 2021.
Review: Players rave about the energy, friendly hosts, and fun competition for all ages.
When to Go: Great for weekends or group events like birthdays and team outings.
How to Go: Located in Columbus, accessible by car with easy parking options.
What to Do: Compete in trivia, puzzles, and wacky challenges just like on TV.
Free or Paid: Paid (reservation required).
Hocking Hills State Park Visitor Center, Ohio
Overview: The Hocking Hills Visitor Center provides information, exhibits, and resources for exploring the beautiful Hocking Hills region.
History: Opened to enhance visitor experience and promote conservation in the park.
Since When: Open since 2019.
Review: Visitors appreciate the helpful staff, informative exhibits, and clean facilities.
When to Go: Visit year-round, but fall is especially stunning with colorful foliage.
How to Go: Located at the entrance of Hocking Hills State Park, accessible by car.
What to Do: Gather maps, plan hikes, and learn about local wildlife and geology.
Free or Paid: Free.
Cincinnati Art Museum, Ohio
Overview: The Cincinnati Art Museum houses a world-class collection of over 67,000 artworks spanning 6,000 years.
History: Founded as one of the first purpose-built art museums in the U.S. to make art accessible to the public.
Since When: Established in 1881.
Review: Guests love the extensive collections, beautiful architecture, and frequent special exhibitions.
When to Go: Anytime, but weekdays offer a quieter experience.
How to Go: Located in Eden Park, easily accessible by car with free parking available.
What to Do: Explore galleries, attend special exhibitions, and join art workshops or tours.
Free or Paid: Free (special exhibitions may require a fee).
House from A Christmas Story, Ohio
Overview: The House from A Christmas Story is the actual home used in the classic 1983 holiday movie, now a museum.
History: Bought and restored by a fan in 2004 to match its appearance in the film.
Since When: Open to the public since 2006.
Review: Visitors love the nostalgia and interactive nature of the experience.
When to Go: Best to visit during the holiday season for a magical atmosphere.
How to Go: Located in Cleveland, Ohio, and accessible by car with parking available nearby.
What to Do: Tour the house, visit the museum across the street, and shop for memorabilia.
Free or Paid: Paid (ticket required for tours).
Sandbox VR, Ohio
Overview: Sandbox VR offers an immersive full-body virtual reality gaming experience.
History: Founded by technology enthusiasts to create hyper-realistic virtual worlds.
Since When: Opened in Ohio locations starting in 2021.
Review: Gamers praise the high-tech gear and thrilling multiplayer adventures.
When to Go: Ideal for rainy days or weekend outings with friends.
How to Go: Located in various malls and entertainment centers in Ohio, accessible by car.
What to Do: Choose a VR adventure and physically move through the gaming environment.
Free or Paid: Paid (reservation and ticket required).
Zoombezi Bay, Ohio
Overview: Zoombezi Bay is a family-friendly water park with slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.
History: Opened as a major addition to the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium attractions.
Since When: Open since 2008.
Review: Guests love the variety of rides and the park’s clean, safe environment.
When to Go: Best to visit in the summer when all rides are open.
How to Go: Located in Powell, Ohio, easily reached by car with plenty of parking.
What to Do: Enjoy water slides, relax in the lazy river, and visit the adjoining zoo.
Free or Paid: Paid (separate admission fee required).
African Safari Wildlife Park, Ohio
Overview: African Safari Wildlife Park offers a drive-through safari where visitors can feed exotic animals from their vehicles.
History: Established to bring an interactive, safari-style animal experience to Ohio.
Since When: Open since 1969.
Review: Families love the up-close encounters with giraffes, zebras, and other wildlife.
When to Go: Spring through fall is best for seeing active animals.
How to Go: Located in Port Clinton, Ohio, and accessible by car.
What to Do: Drive through the safari, feed animals, and explore walk-through exhibits.
Free or Paid: Paid (admission fee per person or per car).
Toledo Museum of Art, Ohio
Overview: The Toledo Museum of Art is renowned for its outstanding collection of paintings, glass art, and sculptures.
History: Founded by glass industry leaders to enrich the community through the arts.
Since When: Opened in 1901.
Review: Visitors appreciate the impressive art collections and free admission.
When to Go: Visit anytime, but weekdays offer a quieter experience.
How to Go: Located in downtown Toledo, easily accessible by car with free parking.
What to Do: Explore art galleries, visit the Glass Pavilion, and attend special exhibits and workshops.
Free or Paid: Free (some special exhibits may have a fee).