Are you ready to add some excitement to your days with the best day trips in Ohio? If you love traveling and exploring diverse landscapes, Ohio’s vibrant scenery will surely captivate you. From the enchanting tales of the Covered Bridge Scenic Byway to the thrilling adventures at Cedar Point, Ohio’s landscape offers a picture-perfect setting for unforgettable experiences. Join us as we share a curated list of Ohio’s most memorable day trips that will fulfill your longing for adventure.
Imagine driving along picturesque byways, marveling at Ohio’s wonders, and creating cherished memories at every stop. Whether you’re driving a brand-new Tesla, loading up your pickup truck, or searching for the car of your dreams among a unique collection of wrecked cars, Ohio has something great to offer within driving distance.
Start creating a lifetime of memories by embarking on one (or more) of these incredible day trips!
Wondering where to go on a road trip in Ohio? The state is a treasure trove for road trip enthusiasts. Begin your journey in Cleveland and visit the iconic Rock and Roll Hall of Fame before relaxing by the calm shores of Lake Erie. Explore the culturally rich Amish Country Byway or embark on an awe-inspiring adventure along the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway. If you’re traveling with family, Columbus offers a wonderland of kid-friendly attractions. Whether you’re seeking nature, culture, or a simple getaway, Ohio has it all.
Looking for a romantic day trip in Ohio? The state, with its blend of stunning landscapes and rich culture, offers couples idyllic getaways right on their doorstep. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Covered Bridge Scenic Byway, where historic bridges meet tranquil landscapes. Immerse yourself in the simplicity and charm of the Amish Country Byway to experience a unique cultural destination. If you’re drawn to cascading waterfalls, make sure to visit Hayden Falls and Brandywine Falls.
Ohio is also home to numerous scenic waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for a fantastic road trip. Starting from Columbus, check out Hayden Falls and Indian Run Falls. As you head north and east, don’t miss the stunning Brandywine Falls and other captivating falls in the area. To the west of Columbus, discover the breathtaking Charleston Falls. To the southeast, explore the remote beauty of Cedar Falls. Each waterfall offers a unique experience and is worth exploring.
If you’re interested in immersing yourself in unique culture, the Amish Country Byway is the perfect choice. Don’t miss the Farmer’s Produce Auction during the growing season, and be sure to visit the Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center and Yoder’s Amish Home. Any time of year, you’ll find fun tours, comfort food, and a relaxed atmosphere. This scenic drive covers 76 miles in northeast Ohio.
There are plenty of fascinating day trips for families in Ohio. From the serene vibes of Seneca Lake to the educational attractions at the COSI Center in Columbus, we’ll shed light on what you can expect during your family adventures. The Seneca Lake Loop is a fantastic day trip option with plenty of activities for both kids and adults, such as swimming, boating, fishing, and enjoying the beautiful lakeside environment. With a short drive of only 22 miles, it’s perfect for kids with shorter attention spans. Don’t forget to explore Seneca Lake Park, Kennonsburg, and the West Shore Cottage area.
Since most kids usually don’t enjoy spending long hours on the road, we’ve gathered a list of fun things to do in Ohio with kids. Depending on your starting point, use these suggestions as inspiration for a day trip that will keep the kids happy. Some top picks include Cedar Point amusement park, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, The Wilds safari, Kings Island Amusement Park, and many more.
Columbus, Ohio’s capital and largest city, serves as an excellent home base for great day trips. It’s just a short drive away from stunning waterfalls like Hayden Falls. Within a couple of hours in any direction, you’ll find fantastic cities such as Newark, Cleveland, Cincinnati, as well as charming small towns like Millersburg. If you’re a nature lover, Columbus is an easy drive to Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Hocking Hill State Park.
For a scenic route from Columbus, embark on the breathtaking Hocking Hills Scenic Byway. This road trip promises more than just a change of scenery; it provides an escape from the ordinary. Discover picturesque valleys, rolling hills, meadows, and charming small farms along the 30-mile route, which starts at the intersection of state Route 374 and U.S. 33 in Rockbridge. Although Hocking Hills is known as the most scenic day trip from Columbus, there are plenty of other options to explore.
Cleveland, located on the shores of Lake Erie, is just over two hours’ drive from Columbus. This bustling city offers attractions such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Garage for recording jam sessions, the family-friendly Christmas Story House, and the vibrant West Side Market.
Cincinnati, only an hour and a half away from Columbus, is packed with fun activities for everyone. Highlights include the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, the Cincinnati Art Museum, Findlay Market, and the Great American Ball Park for baseball fans.
For those interested in Amish country, Millersburg is a peaceful town perfect for exploring Amish culture. Don’t miss Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery, Guggisberg Cheese Factory, and the Village Antique Emporium.
If you’re looking to spend time in nature, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a beautiful park less than two hours’ drive from Columbus. Enjoy hiking trails, including the stunning Brandywine Falls, and consider taking a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
These are just a few of the many great day trips you can take from Columbus. Wayne National Forest, Mohican State Park, Dayton, Newark, Yellow Springs, and Hamilton are also worth considering. Ohio truly offers something for everyone, from breathtaking scenic routes to thrilling amusement parks. We’re excited to rebuild our Ohio bucket list and dive into the countless experiences waiting to be explored.
Do you have any suggestions for the best day trips in Ohio? Let us know!
