7 Ohio Adventures Perfect for Kids and Parents

As we grow older, we often find that reconnecting with our inner child is a gift like no other. Hobbies we enjoyed when we were young are often just as impactful as they were when we were young, and the rush of nostalgia alone makes revisiting them absolutely worth it. If you're looking for opportunities to revisit your childhood while making new memories with your own kids, these fun-filled places in Ohio belong on your local travel bucket list.

1. B.A. Sweetie - Cleveland

There's no better way to feel like a kid in a candy store than to... well, go to a candy store. B.A. Sweetie in Cleveland is the largest candy store in the world, and it is an absolute trip down memory lane. Old-school and hard-to-find candies are staples of their long-standing brand, and there's no shortage of other goodies in their 40,000 square-foot space. They also have the delightfully nostalgic Sweetie Soda Shoppe and Golfland Park in their arsenal to help you make the most of your time in Cleveland.

2. Mapleside Farms - Brunswick

Residents of Brunswick, Ohio, have enjoyed having a farm at the location of Mapleside Farms for as long as anyone can remember... literally! The space was established as a farm when the Tillotson family, among Brunswick's first residents, settled there. Nowadays, they're an absolute beacon of fall fun, but they have so much more to offer throughout the year. In the off-season, they're a casual concert venue, and many cover bands make a point to add this spot to their list of favorite northeast Ohio venues. Since Cleveland is the birthplace of rock and roll, you might consider immersing your kids in a musical upbringing! And of course, the on-site bakery is never a bad idea.

3. Castle Noel - Medina

Just a bit further south in Medina County, Castle Noel is an incredible year-round Christmas museum. You've heard of Christmas in July, but how about Christmas in March or September?! In addition to boasting incredible pieces of Hollywood memorabilia, this place offers a totally hands-on experience to get you into the holly jolly spirit, no matter the season. As a bonus, Alien Vacation Mini Golf is also located on the same campus, ready to immerse the whole family in glow-in-the-dark fun.

4. The Akron Zoo - Akron

While big zoos can feel overwhelming, the Akron Zoo is delightfully family-friendly. Admission won't break the bank, a petting zoo provides hands-on experience, and a nostalgic little carousel adds a dose of magic to each visit. Small but mighty, this zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from all around the world. There's plenty here to delight children and grown-ups alike!

5. Canalway Center - Canal Fulton

In Canal Fulton's St. Helena Park, you'll find the coolest visitor center in the state of Ohio: Canalway Center! This visitor center has a draw unlike any other... A horse-drawn boat ride! You'll hop aboard the St. Helena III, a replica of a vessel that would have rolled down the canal waters over a century ago. This fascinating trip will take you back in time and offer excellent views of the canal banks and historic structures in the area. This community is undeniably cute, so you might want to budget some extra time to explore the area.

6. Mohican State Park

If you're itching for a unique hiking spot in Ohio, Mohican State Park is always a joy to visit. With covered bridges, a river that's perfect for kayaking trips, a stunning gorge, waterfalls, and so much more, there's no shortage of adventure in this spacious landscape. And we do mean spacious—there's 1,110 acres in the state park, and the surrounding Mohican State Forest adds another 4,525 acres to your bucket list.

7. German Village - Columbus

Immersing your kids in a cultural experience will culminate in a memory like no other! German Village in Columbus is overflowing with Old World vibes, including authentic eats, unique shopping, pretty parks, and so much more. The kids will love stocking up on fudge and sweets, and you'll adore the numerous photo ops throughout this picturesque neighborhood.

No matter where you land in the Buckeye State, you're in for an adventure. There's no shortage of family-friendly attractions in Ohio, but these seven stops will make your next road trip especially memorable.

Want to add even more to your kid-friendly bucket list? Check out our favorite family-approved hikes in Ohio to plan your next outing in the great outdoors. For even more family-friendly adventures in the Buckeye State, be sure to check out Only In Your State’s itinerary planner for ideas.