Explore Ohio’s Diverse Destinations
Ohio boasts a variety of picturesque lakes, each with its unique charm, but one that stands out for its recreational offerings and natural beauty is Lake Erie. As the fourth largest of the Great Lakes, Lake Erie stretches along Ohio’s northern border, providing a vast expanse of freshwater for residents and visitors to enjoy. The lake offers numerous opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports, with marinas and beaches dotting its shoreline.
Ohio’s Lake Erie islands, such as Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island, add to the allure with their quaint charm and vibrant summer atmospheres. Whether sailing on the open water, relaxing on the beach, or exploring the surrounding islands, Lake Erie encapsulates the essence of Ohio’s recreational paradise.
Three Interesting Facts about Ohio
01
First Traffic Light
The world’s first electric traffic signal was installed in Cleveland in 1914, helping to regulate the increasing flow of vehicles on the roads.
02
Mother of Presidents
Ohio is known as the “Mother of Presidents” because it has been the birthplace of seven U.S. presidents, including Ulysses S. Grant, Rutherford B. Hayes, James A. Garfield, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, William Howard Taft, and Warren G. Harding.
03
Invention of the Cash Register
James Ritty, a saloon owner in Dayton, Ohio, invented the cash register in 1879 to prevent his employees from pilfering cash.
Must See Attractions
Hocking Hills State Park
Nature & Parks
Hocking Hills State Park, situated in southeastern Ohio, is renowned for its captivating natural beauty. It features forests, cliffs, and waterfalls, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Nature & Parks
This horticultural gem captivates visitors with its stunning glasshouse architecture, diverse plant collections, and immersive garden exhibits.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Nature & Parks
The park is a picturesque haven boasting serene landscapes, scenic waterways, and a network of trails that lead visitors through lush forests and historic landmarks.
Where to Sleep
Ohio Lakes to Discover
1. Alum Creek Reservoir
Located near Columbus, Alum Creek Reservoir is a popular spot for water recreational sports. It features a marina, sandy beaches, and hiking trails.
2. Buckeye Lake
Located east of Columbus, Buckeye Lake is a popular destination for boating and fishing. It is known for its scenic beauty and recreational activities.
3. Indian Lake
This expansive reservoir in west-central Ohio is a favorite for boaters, anglers, and water sports enthusiasts, surrounded by parks and campgrounds.
4. Salt Fork Lake
Surrounded by Salt Fork State Park, this reservoir in eastern Ohio is a haven for boating, fishing, and camping amidst rolling hills and woodlands.
5. Piedmont Lake
Situated in southeastern Ohio, Piedmont Lake is known for its tranquil setting, surrounded by wooded hills, making it an ideal spot for fishing and kayaking.
6. Lake Erie
Ohio’s northern border is graced by Lake Erie, offering breathtaking views, sandy beaches, and opportunities for fishing, boating, and water recreation.
7. Atwood Lake
Nestled in the heart of Amish Country, Atwood Lake offers a peaceful retreat with its scenic shores, providing opportunities for boating and camping.
8. Mosquito Lake
Mosquito Lake offers a picturesque escape in northeastern Ohio with its wooded shores, camping facilities, and various water activities.
Annual Events and Festivals
June 6 – 8, 2025
Columbus Arts Festival
The Columbus Arts Festival is a vibrant celebration of creativity, culture, and community in the heart of Ohio’s capital. Boasting a diverse showcase of visual and performing arts, the festival attracts local and national artists who present various paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and multimedia installations. Strolling along the picturesque Scioto Mile, visitors immerse themselves in a sensory feast, engaging with artists, witnessing live demonstrations, and appreciating the rich tapestry of talent that defines Columbus’s artistic landscape.
TBA 2025
Cleveland Garlic Festival
The Cleveland Garlic Festival is a unique and flavorful celebration that infuses the city with the pungent aroma of garlic and a lively atmosphere. Held annually, this festival showcases the versatility and culinary appeal of the “stinking rose.” Live music, cooking demonstrations, and a lively Kids’ Zone add to the festive atmosphere, making the Cleveland Garlic Festival a family-friendly event that celebrates both garlic’s culinary and agricultural aspects while supporting local farmers and sustainable agriculture initiatives.
September 19 – 22, 2024
Cincinnati Oktoberfest
Visitors can revel in the vibrant street parades, don Bavarian attire, and participate in beer stein-holding contests. The festival’s centerpiece is the impressive collection of beer tents and gardens, where attendees can savor a wide selection of craft and imported brews. A diverse range of German cuisine, including sausages, pretzels, and strudels, adds to the culinary delights. With its lively ambiance, cultural immersion, and spirited revelry, Cincinnati Oktoberfest is a must-attend event that brings together the local community and visitors for a festive celebration of German heritage and the joy of the fall season.
Top Hiking Trails
Brandywine Gorge Trail
Northfield, Ohio
Nestled within the breathtaking Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio, the Brandywine Gorge Trail is a testament to the region’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes. This scenic trail takes hikers on a captivating journey through a lush and wooded gorge, the highlight being the spectacular Brandywine Falls. Visitors hike the 2.3-mile trail and encounter vibrant flora, charming wooden bridges, and the soothing sound of rushing water. The focal point, Brandywine Falls, is a 65-foot waterfall that plunges dramatically into a serene pool below.
Upper Falls to Lower Falls via Buckeye Trail
Benton Township, Ohio
The one-mile journey from Upper Falls to Lower Falls via the Buckeye Trail is a captivating experience. This trail weaves through the heart of Ohio’s lush, natural landscapes, offering hikers an immersive encounter with the state’s diverse flora and fauna. The path begins at Upper Falls, a magnificent cascade setting a dramatic backdrop with thunderous waters tumbling over ancient rock formations.
Pine Grove Trail and Ledges Trail Loop from Kendall Lake
Boston Township, Ohio
This 4.1-mile loop, a harmonious blend of tranquil forest paths and intriguing rock formations starts from the picturesque Kendall Lake. As hikers venture onto the Pine Grove Trail, they are enveloped by a dense canopy of pine and hardwood trees, creating a peaceful, shaded environment that resonates with the songs of local bird species. Transitioning to the Ledges Trail, the scenery shifts dramatically, revealing the park’s famous rock formations. These towering ledges, composed of sandstone, provide a striking contrast to the earlier forested paths.
Best Golf Courses
Fowler’s Mill Golf Course
13095 Rockhaven Rd, Chesterland, OHio
Renowned for its exceptional design and natural beauty, this 27-hole public golf course offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for players of all skill levels. The front nine, known as the “Maple” course, showcases strategic bunkering and elevation changes, while the “River” and “Lake” courses on the back nine present golfers with the scenic challenge of the Cuyahoga River and Fowler’s Lake.
Sleepy Hollow Golf Course
9445 Brecksville Rd, Cleveland, Ohio
Stanley Thompson designed Sleepy Hollow Golf Course in the 1920s. This 18-hole public course is renowned for its picturesque setting along the scenic Cuyahoga River Valley. The course meanders through lush woodlands, rolling hills, and alongside the winding river, offering golfers a challenging game and a serene escape into nature. The signature 16th hole, aptly named “The Quarry,” features a dramatic tee shot over a water-filled ravine, adding an element of excitement and difficulty to the round.
Boulder Creek Golf Club
9700 Page Rd, Streetsboro, Ohio
Boulder Creek Golf Club, nestled in the picturesque landscape of Streetsboro, Ohio, is a captivating destination for golfers seeking both a scenic and challenging round. This public 18-hole championship course, masterfully designed by Joe Saleem, is acclaimed for its stunning layout that harmonizes with the region’s natural terrain. Built on 200 acres of rolling hills and wooded areas, Boulder Creek features dramatic elevation changes, providing views and a unique golfing experience. The signature 17th hole, with its elevated tee box and striking view of Boulder Creek, is a highlight for many golfers.
Water Sports
White Star Quarry Scuba Diving
Scuba diving
White Star Quarry in Gibsonburg, Ohio, presents a unique and exhilarating scuba diving experience, attracting divers across the Midwest. Nestled in a former limestone quarry, this crystal-clear freshwater dive site is known for its exceptional visibility, often extending up to 30 feet or more, allowing divers to immerse themselves in the underwater environment. It features an intriguing underwater landscape, including rock walls that drop straight down, creating an illusion of boundless depth. Divers can explore various submerged attractions such as a sunken airplane, a boat, and even a school bus, which serve as artificial reefs and habitats for aquatic life.
Ohio Fishing
Fishing
Fishing in Ohio is a popular and rewarding activity, thanks to the state’s diverse waterways, home to various fish species. From the renowned walleye fishing in Lake Erie to bass fishing in inland lakes and rivers, Ohio offers something for every angler.
Paddleboarding
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Paddleboarding in Ohio offers a tranquil yet refreshing way to explore the state’s stunning waterways. This increasingly popular water sport is well-suited to Ohio’s diverse range of calm lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. From the serene waters of Lake Erie’s shores to the gentle currents of the Hocking and Scioto Rivers, paddleboarders can enjoy a variety of scenic environments.
Resorts to Discover
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions – Sandusky
Family-friendly, Recreational
7000 Kalahari Dr, Sandusky, Ohio 44870
The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake
Family-friendly, Recreational
4888 N Broadway, Geneva-On-The-Lake, Ohio 44041
The Grand Resort
Luxury
9519 E Market St, Warren, Ohio 44484
Tips on Vacationing in Ohio
Research Your Destinations
Ohio has a variety of attractions, from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland to the Hocking Hills State Park. Research and plan your itinerary based on your interests.
Transportation
Ohio has a well-connected interstate highway system, making it easy to travel between cities. For flexibility, consider renting a car or using public transportation if you’re staying within a city.
Explore Amish Country
Explore Ohio’s Amish Country, particularly in places like Holmes County. Experience a slower pace of life, enjoy handmade goods, and savor traditional Amish cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ohio
The best time depends on your preferences. Summer offers warm weather and outdoor events, while fall is known for colorful foliage.
When looking for vacation rentals in Ohio, several reputable websites are available. Some popular options include Lake, Vrbo, and Airbnb. These sites offer a variety of rental types, such as cabins, houses, and apartments, giving you the flexibility to find the perfect accommodation for your trip.
Absolutely! Hocking Hills is a popular destination for nature lovers, and cabin rentals are plentiful in the area.
Ohio has various waterfront vacation rental options, including those near Lake Erie, rivers, and more. Lake is an excellent resource for waterfront rentals.
Yes, renting a vacation home online is generally safe if you choose a reputable website. Popular vacation rental sites like Lake, Hometogo, and Airbnb have secure booking processes and established reputations in the industry. Be sure to read reviews and confirm listing details before making a reservation to ensure a positive experience.
Booking a last-minute vacation in Ohio is easier than it may seem. Utilize popular rental websites like Lake, Rent By Owner™, Hometogo, and Airbnb to find available properties quickly. Their search engines can often filter results based on dates, allowing you to see what options are ready for immediate booking. Act quickly, as last-minute rentals can get reserved fast!