Ohio doesn’t always make the top of travel lists. But after exploring the state on a few road trips, I can confidently say it should. From quirky small towns and epic roller coasters to underrated hikes and buzzing food scenes, Ohio packs way more fun than people give it credit for. I’ve watched sunsets over Lake Erie, eaten my way through Cincinnati’s chili joints, explored artsy corners of Columbus, and hiked into caves in Hocking Hills that feel like something out of a fantasy film. Here’s my ultimate Ohio bucket list with 12 exciting things you can’t miss on your next trip!
12 Fun Things to Do in Ohio – My Top Highlights
Trying to map out your ultimate Ohio adventure? Here’s a quick breakdown of the most exciting, quirky, and unforgettable experiences across the state. Tap any item below to skip ahead.
- Best Thrill Ride Destination: Cedar Point: The Roller Coaster Capital
- Top Spot for Music Lovers: Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Groove to the Beat
- Best Nature Escape: Hocking Hills State Park: Nature’s Playground
- Top Interactive Museum for Kids: Cleveland Children’s Museum
- Most Adorable Animal Encounter: Majestic Meadows Alpacas & Boutique
- Coolest Science + Space Exhibit: Great Lakes Science Center
- Best Indoor Mini Golf Adventure: Alien Adventure Mini Golf
- Top Botanical + Art Combo: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
- Best Aviation Museum in the U.S.: National Museum of the US Air Force
- Most Inspiring Art Collection: Cincinnati Art Museum
- Best Summer Waterpark: Zoombezi Bay Waterpark
- Coolest Safari in the Midwest: The Wilds: Safari Adventures
Here’s my advice: start with thrills at Cedar Point or The Wilds, explore a city like Columbus or Cleveland, then unwind in Hocking Hills. Ohio may surprise you…so don’t sleep on it!
1. Cedar Point: The Roller Coaster Capital
Cedar Point in Sandusky is a paradise for thrill-seekers like myself. It boasts 18 world-class roller coasters that push the limits of speed and excitement. The record-breaking Steel Vengeance combines a wooden frame with a smooth steel track, delivering airtime hills and a 90-degree drop that keeps riders screaming. For a heart-stopping launch, Top Thrill Dragster rockets from 0 to 120 mph in just four seconds before a towering 420-foot plunge. If you prefer classic thrills, the Millennium Force offers an ultra-smooth ride with breathtaking views of Lake Erie.
Beyond the coasters, Snake River Expedition provides a family-friendly boat adventure, while Cedar Point Shores Waterpark offers slides and a lazy river for cooling off. My favorite moment? Watching the sunset over the lake after an adrenaline-filled day. With its mix of high-speed rides, live entertainment, and scenic waterfront views, Cedar Point is the ultimate amusement park experience.
2. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: Groove to the Beat
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is a deep dive into the music that shaped generations. The museum’s Hall of Fame Gallery pays tribute to legendary artists, featuring memorabilia like Elvis Presley’s iconic jumpsuits, David Bowie’s handwritten lyrics, and one of Prince’s custom guitars.
Music lovers can explore the evolution of rock in the “Legends of Rock” exhibit. This showcases instruments, costumes, and rare footage from icons like The Rolling Stones, Madonna, and Nirvana.
For an interactive experience, the Garage Exhibit lets visitors play real instruments and record their own tracks. My favorite stop was the Power of Rock Theater, where a short film of electrifying induction performances brings the energy of live rock shows to life. From interactive sound booths to rare behind-the-scenes footage, this museum isn’t just about history…it’s about feeling the pulse of rock music itself. It’s truly a must-visit in the Midwest for music lovers!
3. Hocking Hills State Park: Nature’s Playground
Hocking Hills State Park is Ohio’s ultimate outdoor escape, packed with dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Old Man’s Cave is the most famous stop, where a winding gorge leads to cascading falls and natural stone bridges. For an even more secluded adventure, Whispering Cave offers a 300-foot-wide recess cave with an enchanting waterfall. Those looking for a short but rewarding hike can explore Ash Cave, a stunning amphitheater-like rock formation with a seasonal waterfall.
Adventure seekers can take on the Via Ferrata at High Rock Adventures, an assisted rock-climbing course with breathtaking views, or go zip-lining through the treetops at Hocking Hills Canopy Tours. My most memorable moment was kayaking along the Hocking River. This is where the surrounding cliffs and forests felt straight out of a movie.
Hiking, rock climbing, or just soaking in the views…Hocking Hills delivers an unforgettable nature-filled getaway. To truly experience the magic of this area, I highly recommend staying in a cozy cabin in Hocking Hills, particularly in the fall foliage months!
4. Cleveland Children’s Museum: A World of Wonder and Imagination
In the heart of Cleveland, the Children’s Museum is a hands-on learning space designed to spark curiosity and creativity in young minds. The Wonder Lab immerses kids in an interactive water and science exhibit, while Adventure City allows them to role-play as shopkeepers, mechanics, and builders in a kid-sized town. The Arts & Parts studio encourages artistic expression, giving children the freedom to experiment with painting, sculpting, and crafting in a colorful, mess-friendly environment.
For toddlers, the Meadow area provides a safe and engaging space to crawl, explore, and discover at their own pace. During my visit, I loved watching children build miniature worlds in the Making Miniatures exhibit, where imagination runs wild. With its blend of play and learning, this museum ensures that every child leaves with a newfound sense of curiosity. A visit here is a perfect way to combine fun and education in a memorable family outing.
5. Majestic Meadows Alpacas & Boutique: An Enchanting Animal Adventure
Nestled in Medina, Majestic Meadows Alpacas & Boutique offers a charming farm experience where visitors can interact with over 70 alpacas, as well as llamas, miniature donkeys, and exotic animals like kangaroos and capybaras. Walking through the scenic pastures, guests can feed and pet the friendly alpacas while learning about their care and unique personalities. The farm provides an up-close experience with these gentle creatures, making it a hit for animal lovers of all ages. It’s easily one of Ohio’s best hidden gems.
Beyond the farm, the on-site boutique features an array of alpaca wool products, including scarves, socks, and plush toys—perfect keepsakes from your visit. For something truly special, Alpaca and Goat Yoga offers a fun and relaxing way to bond with the animals. During my visit, seeing baby alpacas curiously approach visitors was a heartwarming highlight. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family outing, this farm delivers a truly unique experience.
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6. Great Lakes Science Center: A Fusion of Fun and Learning
Situated along Cleveland’s waterfront, the Great Lakes Science Center is an interactive museum that brings science and technology to life. The NASA Glenn Visitor Center is a major highlight, featuring artifacts like the 1973 Skylab 3 Apollo Command Module and exhibits that explore space exploration and aeronautics. Visitors can even step inside a space shuttle replica to experience what it’s like to live and work in space. The Science Phenomena exhibit offers engaging displays on electricity, magnetism, and physics, making complex concepts easy to grasp through interactive experiments.
Outside, the museum’s prime location along Lake Erie enhances the visit, with exhibits like the Sinking Water Clock, a unique timepiece powered by water flow. During my visit, the Wind Turbine Lab stood out, demonstrating the power of renewable energy in real-time.
From space exploration to hands-on science experiments, this museum offers an exciting blend of education and discovery for all ages. And afterwards, you’ll be within close proximity of Cleveland’s best nightlife spots.
7. Alien Adventure Mini Golf: A Galactic Game of Putt-Putt
Step into another dimension at Alien Adventure Mini Golf in Medina, where glowing extraterrestrials, dinosaurs, and deep-sea creatures create a one-of-a-kind mini-golf experience. This blacklight indoor course features 12 uniquely themed holes, each with its own sci-fi-inspired obstacles that make every putt a new challenge. From navigating past a glowing T-Rex to dodging a UFO’s tractor beam, the creative designs keep players entertained while adding an extra level of excitement.
After sinking the final putt, visitors can unwind in the “Mars Bar” seating area, the perfect spot to relax and chat about game strategies. The vibrant neon artwork and otherworldly atmosphere make it a hit for both kids and adults. On my visit, playing through the asteroid belt-themed hole felt like stepping onto a movie set. If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly activity with a cosmic twist, this mini-golf course is a must.
8. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: A Blooming Marvel in Ohio
Located in Columbus, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a lush oasis filled with exotic plants, vibrant flowers, and immersive exhibits. The conservatory houses distinct biomes, allowing visitors to experience everything from a tropical rainforest to a desert filled with succulents and cacti. Seasonal events like the Blooms & Butterflies exhibit bring hundreds of colorful butterflies into the gardens, creating a magical atmosphere.
Beyond the plant collections, the conservatory features stunning glass artwork by Dale Chihuly, adding a mesmerizing artistic touch to the space. I was personally drawn to the Palm House, a stunning Victorian-style greenhouse with towering palm trees that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
Whether you’re a plant lover, an art enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this botanical haven offers a refreshing escape from city life. And if you’re looking for more fun afterwards, you won’t be far from the cool nightlife spots in Columbus.
9. National Museum of the US Air Force: Soaring Through History
The National Museum of the US Air Force in Dayton is a dream destination for aviation enthusiasts, housing the world’s largest collection of military aircraft. Spanning several hangars, the museum features historic planes from World War I, World War II, and modern stealth technology, including the legendary B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber and the SR-71 Blackbird, the world’s fastest aircraft. The Presidential Gallery even allows visitors to step inside retired Air Force One planes used by past U.S. presidents.
Interactive exhibits let visitors experience the thrill of aviation firsthand, with flight simulators and virtual reality displays that recreate historic aerial missions. Walking beneath the massive B-52 Stratofortress, I was struck by its sheer size and history. With free admission and an incredible variety of exhibits, this museum is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by military history and the evolution of flight.
10. Cincinnati Art Museum: A Canvas of Creativity and Culture
Nestled in Eden Park, the Cincinnati Art Museum is home to a vast collection of over 67,000 artworks, spanning thousands of years of artistic expression. The museum showcases masterpieces from renowned artists like Van Gogh, Picasso, and Georgia O’Keeffe, alongside stunning ancient artifacts and contemporary pieces. Special exhibits frequently rotate, offering fresh perspectives on art from around the world.
One of the highlights is the Rosenthal Education Center, where visitors of all ages can participate in hands-on creative workshops. On my visit, I was captivated by the Cincinnati Wing, which celebrates the city’s artistic heritage with locally inspired works. The museum’s scenic location and free admission make it an accessible and enriching stop for both art lovers and casual visitors alike. Whether admiring classical sculptures or engaging in interactive exhibits, this museum offers an inspiring cultural experience.
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11. Zoombezi Bay Waterpark: Splash, Slide, and Smile!
When the summer heat kicks in, Zoombezi Bay Waterpark in Powell is the perfect place to cool off with thrilling water attractions. The massive Wild Tides wave pool generates ocean-like waves, while the Python Plunge sends riders twisting through dark tunnels before splashing into a pool. For adrenaline junkies, the Cyclone is a must-try—a four-person raft ride that drops into a swirling funnel before a sudden drop.
For a more relaxed experience, the Crocodile Creek lazy river winds through lush landscapes, offering a peaceful float. Younger visitors will love Baboon Lagoon, a multi-level play area with water cannons and small slides. One of my favorite moments was conquering the SoundSurfer, a surf simulator that tested my balance in the best way. Whether you’re craving high-speed slides or a laid-back day in the sun, Zoombezi Bay delivers nonstop aquatic fun.
12. The Wilds: Safari Adventures in Ohio’s Heartland
Set in the rolling hills of Cumberland, The Wilds offers a safari-style experience unlike anything else in Ohio. This 9,000-acre wildlife conservation center is home to rare and endangered animals from around the world, including rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs, all roaming vast open spaces. Visitors can hop on an open-air safari tour, where knowledgeable guides provide insights while animals roam freely across the landscapes.
For a unique perspective, the Sunset Safari offers breathtaking golden-hour views, while thrill-seekers can soar over the grounds on the Zipline Safari, gliding above rhinos and zebras. Staying overnight in one of the Nomad Ridge luxury yurts makes the experience even more immersive. Also, within a 30-min drive, you’ll find some of Ohio’s best spa resorts.
One of my most memorable moments was seeing a baby giraffe take its first steps in the open plains. If you’re looking for a wild adventure without leaving the Midwest, The Wilds is a must-visit destination.
