Once you’ve lived in the Buckeye State for several years, you might find yourself wondering “What is there to do in Ohio?” Contrary to what you might think, Ohio is full of all kinds of neat places to discover and weekend vacation destinations. When you only have a day to explore, it can be difficult to pick a place that you can take in during a single day. The following are some of our favorite day trips in Ohio (listed in no particular order).

See if we’ve featured your favorite Ohio day trip:

1. The Wilds

The Wilds Columbus Zoo, 14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732, USA
The Wilds/Facebook
Although Ohio is full of several impressive zoos, The Wilds in Cumberland offer a unique way to observe exotic animals. Depending on the tour option you choose, you can get an up-close encounter with the animals or board a safari transport so you can observe them (from a safe distance) roam freely while learning all about the rare and endangered species the facility conserves. Read more about how to plan your visit to The Wilds.

2. German Village

jsjessee / Wikipedia
There are some small towns and attractions in Ohio that make great day trip destinations no matter what time of year it is. German Village in Columbus, Ohio is one of those special places. Its architecture, local eateries, unique shops and history make it an ideal day trip destination no matter the season. (Book lovers will want to stop at The Book Loft, which features 32 rooms of books.) Learn more about German Village and what makes it a great day trip in Ohio.

3. Ohio State Reformatory

The Ohio State Reformatory, 100 Reformatory Rd, Mansfield, OH 44905, USA
The Ohio State Reformatory/Facebook
If you’re looking for someplace out of the ordinary to explore in Ohio, consider touring the Ohio State Reformatory—but be aware that it isn’t for the faint of heart. While the exterior of the building may be hauntingly beautiful, the lonely cells and restless spirits roaming about inside are far from welcoming. If exploring haunted places and creepy museums is your thing, this is the one place in Ohio that has to go on your bucket list. The Ohio State Reformatory is a historic treasure with a haunting backstory.

4. Old Man's Cave

Hocking Hills State Park Visitor Center, 19988 OH-664 Scenic, Logan, OH 43138, USA
Wirestock / Getty Images
If you’ve yet to hike the Old Man’s Cave trail at Hocking Hills State Park in Logan, you’re truly missing out. It’s arguably the most beautiful hiking trail in Ohio—and it will make you feel like you’re temporarily living in a Lord of the Rings film. At approximately one mile in length, this gorgeous trail takes about an hour to complete, so it’s perfect for a day hike; you can take your time exploring. Check out what makes Old Man's Cave a fun day trip in Ohio.

5. The J.M. Smucker Company Store and Cafe

333 Wadsworth Rd, Orrville, OH 44667, USA
jmsmucker
The J.M. Smucker Company Store and Cafe in Orville, Ohio is a truly special place that’s worth a day trip. It’s a fun destination the whole family will love to explore. With so much more than fruit spreads and peanut butter, you’ll be absolutely delighted. You'll get to learn all about the history of the company and the different brands. Get a glimpse inside The Smucker Company and start planning your own tour and visit.

6. Peninsula

Peninsula, OH 44264, USA
Jon Dawson/Flickr
If you’ve ever heard of a tiny town called Peninsula, Ohio, you should know it’s a must-visit that belongs on your bucket list. Blending natural beauty with modern amenities, this town beautifully preserves a rural setting in an urban environment. It's a charming village that sits in the middle of the stunningly beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Read more about Peninsula so you can start planning your own day trip.

7. Jungle Jim's

Jungle Jim's International Market, 5440 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, OH 45014, USA
Wei C./Yelp
With rows and rows of fresh produce, meat, seafood and other foods you’ve likely never seen before, a trip to this international market is truly an unforgettable experience. You’ll find much more than food here—although the food selection itself is certainly worth the trip. Learn more about Jungle Jim's International Market to make the most out of your visit.

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8. Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303, USA
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens/Facebook
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is a national treasure in Akron, Ohio that’s open to the public from April to December. Since 1912, this mansion has enchanted locals and visitors alike who’ve walked its halls and strolled its gardens. Learn more details about Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens.

9. Yellow Springs

Yellow Springs, OH 45387, USA
Yellow Springs, OH / Facebook
Yellow Springs, Ohio is arguably one of Ohio’s most special towns—because it’s full of one-of-a-kind character you just won’t find anywhere else. As a quaint college town full of color, plenty of things to do in nature and even a mobile "tiny home" or two, there’s truly nowhere else in Ohio quite like Yellow Springs. Regardless of the season, make it a point to take a day trip to Yellow Springs.

10. Clifton Mill

Clifton Mill Covered Bridge, Yellow Springs, OH 45387, USA
Clifton Mill / Facebook
This historic site of Clifton Mill features a vintage mill, a covered bridge, a 1940s-era gas station and a quaint American restaurant. (John Bryan State Park is close to this serene attraction and offers beautiful hiking trails if you’re searching for something more adventurous.) It’s a lovely day trip destination. Read more about Clifton Mill so you can soon plan your visit.

11. Raven’s Glenn Winery

Raven's Glenn Winery & Restaurant, 56183 Co Rd 143, West Lafayette, OH 43845, USA
Raven's Glenn Winery & Restaurant/Yelp
Most people don’t realize Ohio is actually home to more than 150 wineries. (It’s arguably one of Ohio’s best-kept secrets.) One of our favorite wineries in the state features an unforgettable on-site restaurant that makes a day trip there extra special. Raven’s Glenn Winery in West Lafayette is one of the most beautiful and charming wineries in all of Ohio—and if you’re a wine lover it’s a must visit. Learn more about Raven's Glenn Winery.

12. Zoar

198 Main St, Zoar, OH 44697, USA
Historic Zoar Village/Facebook
The small town of Zoar, Ohio is a historic German village most people in the state (surprisingly) don’t know about. Beautifully preserved and full of fun places to explore, you’ll fall in love with this little-known town. The village of Zoar has more than 50 of the original historic structures and buildings still standing today. Consequently, the town has preserved much of its old world charm. This article goes into all the details about the enchanting Ohio town.

13. Idle-Hour Ranch

Idle-Hour Ranch, 4845 Fenner Rd, Troy, OH 45373, USA
Idle-Hour Ranch/Facebook
Idle-Hour Ranch in Troy, Ohio offers visitors a truly unique experience with animals you wouldn’t really expect to find in Ohio. From camels to elephants, you never know what you’ll encounter at this family owned and operated ranch. It takes the concept of a petting zoo to a whole other level. Learn more about Idle-Hour Ranch.

14. Holden Arboretum

The Holden Arboretum, 9550 Sperry Rd, Kirtland, OH 44094, USA
Kevin T. Quinn/Flickr
Visitors can observe this beautiful garden all year round. Holden Arboretum features a display garden, a crabapple collection, a hedge garden, a butterfly garden, a rhododendron garden, and conifer and magnolia collections. There's also a stunning canopy walk that gives you a truly unique perspective. A picturesque Ohio day trip, keep reading more about Holden Arboretum so you can be ready to visit.

15. Granville

Granville, OH, USA
Jim/Flickr
One of the most charming, overlooked towns in Ohio is Granville. It’s a quaint college town with New England charm, it’s full of history and there’s plenty to do and see. The town prides itself on its history and heritage. You'll find several historical markers and museums throughout town. Read more about charming Granville and all that the town has to offer.

Have you been to any of these places before? What other day trips in Ohio would you recommend taking?  Share your thoughts and experiences with us. We would love to hear from you!

No matter where the road takes you, we highly recommend checking out this road trip packing list. We’re pretty sure we’ve thought of everything, so you don’t have to!

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More to Explore

What Is There To Do In Ohio?

April Dray | June 13, 2019

What is there to do on a rainy day in Ohio?

There is plenty to see and do on a rainy day in Ohio! Especially if you have children, you want an activity that is going to keep their attention. Some of the best options to consider for things to do with kids on a rainy day in Ohio include:

  • COSI in Columbus
  • The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery in Dayton
  • EnterTRAINment Junction in West Chester
  • Manor Thrill Center in Sandusky

 

What do you do with kids in Ohio?

If you're wondering what else there is to do with kids in Ohio, there are several great getaways in and around the state that kids will especially appreciate.

  • Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky and Great Wolf Lodge in Mason are massive indoor water parks that children absolutely love.
  • Young’s Jersey Dairy in Yellow Springs
  • Play: CLE in Avon
  • b.a. Sweetie Candy Company in Cleveland
  • The Velvet Ice Cream Factory in Utica

There are also several children’s museums scattered throughout the state that feature plenty of hands-on exhibits and plenty of playtime. For more information, check out this great article on places to take your kids in Ohio.

What do you do with kids in Ohio without spending money?

Some of the best day trips to take on one tank of gas with kids in Ohio without spending money are as simple as exploring your local metro park or the closest state park. A little time in nature goes a long way, and many trails in Ohio are easy enough to hike with children. You can also dig for fossils and explore ancient ruins for free.

  • Olander Park System's Fossil Park in Sylvania and Hopewell Culture National Historical Park in Chillicothe are great options for digging for fossils and exploring ancient ruins.
  • Many museums in Ohio are also free to explore, such as The National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton.
  • The Cleveland Museum of Art is another option.

For more information on these places and several more suggestions, check out this article on free things to do with kids in Ohio.

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