Here in Ohio, there's so much to see and do that the little-known places can get overlooked. That's why we've developed a list of 12 things to see and do that will give you a year's worth of neat places to discover. Take a weekend out of each month in 2018 to explore the following 12 little-known attractions right here in your very own state:
1. Tranquility Salt Cave
If you’ve never heard of salt caves and Halotherapy, you’re going to want to experience it for yourself. A salt cave is a unique way to relax and recharge. The health benefits from Halotherapy are numerous. It improves several conditions, from anxiety to asthma. Fortunately, Columbus is home to a fairly new salt cave called Tranquility Salt Cave—and you’ll definitely want to visit. A 45-minute session in this unique cave will relax your mind and rejuvenate your sinuses. For more information and directions, click here.
2. The Ohio State Reformatory
If you’re looking for someplace out of the ordinary to explore in Ohio this new year, 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. It’s a historic treasure with a haunting backstory. For tour options, rates and other information, click here.
3. The Virginia Kendall Ledges Trail
Some hiking trails can make you feel a million miles away from it all. The Ledges Trail at Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Peninsula, Ohio is one of those enchanting trails — and it’s a must-do. More than 300 million years ago, this trail’s area of the park was actually covered by an ancient sea. Melting glaciers helped to form what are now captivating ledges you can hike through. For more details, click here.
4. Yellow Springs
This coming spring, consider visiting the charming town of Yellow Springs. In 2017, Yellow Springs, Ohio was named one of the coolest small towns in the country by Matador Network. Gorgeous scenery, a working dairy farm, local shops and an arts community await you at this special little town in southwest Ohio. For more information, click here.
5. Glenwood Gardens
When you’re looking for something fun to do with the family on a spring or summer day, consider visiting one of your local, little-known parks. Discovery parks are full of hands-on activities and exhibits. Glenwood Gardens in Cincinnati is one of Ohio’s hidden gems just waiting to be explored. It’s a beautiful place to spend a sunny afternoon with the whole family. For directions and more information, click here.
6. Whispering Cave
With massive sandstone cliffs, a new cave, a towering waterfall and a swinging bridge, the Hemlock Bridge Trail to Whispering Cave in Hocking Hills State Park is an Ohio adventure you simply have to take next summer. The Hemlock Bridge Trail is a 1.5-mile trail that leads to Whispering Cave, a 300 ft.-wide cavern many past visitors have yet to explore. The trail also features a 105-ft. waterfall, towering sandstone cliffs Hocking Hills explorers know and love and a swinging bridge that will bring out your sense of adventure. For more information, click here.
7. Baylor Beach Park
Here in Ohio, we have several large water parks that are perfect for some fun in the sun. But sometimes it’s the little-known, hidden gems that offer the best experience—because you feel like you’re uncovering one of Ohio’s best-kept secrets. That’s exactly how it feels when you visit the family owned and operated Baylor Beach Park in Navarre, Ohio. Unless you're a local, you've likely never heard of Baylor Beach Park, which features a 2-acre manmade swimming lake with sandy beaches. For more information, click here.
8. The World’s Longest Yard Sale
Most people have no idea that the World’s Longest Yard Sale stretches across the western border of Ohio. It’s a truly epic weekend-long yard sale you’re going to absolutely love. You’ll find so many treasures just waiting to be discovered at 127 Yard Sale. Make your calendars for August 2-5, 2018. For more details, click here.
9. Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park
While most people are familiar with the beauty of Ohio’s beloved Old Man’s Cave hiking trails and the Hocking Hills State Park, less people are aware of the similar breathtaking, adventurous nature hike you will experience at Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park. While it’s not technically "hidden," it’s a highly underrated, lesser-known state park that’s an true hidden gem of Ohio. For more information and directions, click here.
10. Ohio Railway Museum Ghost Trolley
If you enjoy all things spooky during the fall season in Ohio, there’s a little-known trolley ride you need to know about. The Ohio Railway Museum in Worthington, Ohio is home an annual ghost trolley ride that will spook you in the best way possible. The Ohio Railway Museum is a train station, museum and railroad that offers fun, round-trip demonstration rides on some of the streetcars and interurbans. The Ghost Trolley is designed for families looking for a spooky time—but not too spooky. For further details, click here.
11. Squire's Castle
Squire’s Castle at North Chagrin Reservation in Willoughby, Ohio is a lovely little hidden gem you’ll want to explore if you haven’t already. This unfinished castle has an interesting history and is easy for hikers and bikers to access. Take the loop trail for a picture perfect autumn day hike. For directions, click here.
12. The Chalet Toboggan Chutes
Cleveland Metroparks features a truly spectacular toboggan chute you need to experience in the winter season. The Chalet in Strongsville’s Mill Stream Run Reservation is home to the tallest and fastest ice chutes in Ohio. It’s tons of fun that you just don’t want to miss out on. For directions, rates and other information, click here.
How many of these places will you visit next year? What else would you add to this list? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
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