26 Exciting Things To Do in Ohio in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

Putting together an Ohio bucket list is a tall order. Just when we cross off one amazing Ohio adventure, it quickly gets replaced with another. Of course, that's part of the fun of living in a state as beautiful, dynamic, and downright fascinating as the Buckeye State. With that in mind, we've put together a list of 26 things that, though not a comprehensive list of Ohio's possibilities for adventure, offer a taste of the best things to do in Ohio during 2026. From frozen waterfall hikes to award-winning restaurants, cave tours, and festivals, this list promises something for every kind of explorer.

1. Witness a Frozen Brandywine Falls

One of Summit County's most prized treasures, Brandywine Falls is worth seeing any time of year. However, there's something especially alluring about a frozen waterfall at the center of a winter landscape. The 60-foot waterfall can be seen via a short boardwalk trail, or, if you're looking for more of an adventure, check out this 2.6-mile loop trail.

2. See Some of Ohio’s Covered Bridges

Why not take a winding road trip through Ohio's many charming towns to capture the beauty of the Buckeye State’s numerous covered bridges. Snap some shots of these iconic structures in between stops at great eats and scenic towns for a relaxing trip you’ll remember for years to come.

3. Search for Treasures at the Ohio Valley Antique Mall

If you love antiquing, a trip to the Ohio Valley Antique Mall is an absolute must. This massive space houses over 550 unique vendors, and with an inventory that constantly changes, you never know what you'll find. Our advice: clear out your trunk before you visit as you'll likely bring a lot home with you!

4. Stay the Night Inside a Magical Glamping Dome

Embrace Ohio's frozen landscape with a stay in a breathtaking geodesic glamping dome complete with scenic views and a hot tub. Located in Gann, Ohio, this picture-perfect getaway can accommodate up to four guests. It's tucked away on seven acres, and guests will enjoy enchanted forest views right from bed.

5. Spend an Entire Afternoon at the Book Loft of German Village

In our opinion, there's no place quite as special as a bookstore. Ohio has loads of them, but there's one that stands apart from the rest for its sheer volume of books. The Book Loft of German Village in Columbus has not one, not two, but thirty-two rooms of books to explore.

6. Book a Sauna Pod in Hocking Hills

Nothing says relaxation quite like spending time in a sauna. But what if we told you there were sauna pods that showcase some of the most spectacular views in Hocking Hills? That's exactly what you'll find at this special, spa-like destination in Logan, Ohio. The best part of all is that you can drive right up to your private sauna pod—no hiking required! Learn more about these unbelievable Hocking Hills saunas.

7. Visit the Toledo Museum of Art

Ohio is home to some renowned galleries, and the Toledo Museum of Art is one of its most impressive. Measuring nearly 300,000 square feet, it houses 30,000 unique items. This internationally-known museum is actually ranked as the twentieth in the entire nation. (Toledo, in general, is an amazing city to visit!) Need a place to stay while you're visiting? The Toledo Hilton Garden Inn is convenient to lots of the city's top attractions.

8. Enjoy Fresh Donuts From Four Mile Bakery & General Store

There's nothing quite like a fresh, homemade donut to start your day. Four Mile Bakery & General Store in Jackson, Ohio, is famous for its large wagon-wheel donuts that are made by hand each day. The store is situated in the heart of a large Amish community, making it a wonderful place to stock up on pantry essentials.

9. Visit the Tallest Point in Ohio

For the tallest point in Ohio, head to Campbell Hill. It stands at an impressive 1,549 feet above sea level, and it's located within the city of Bellefontaine. The view is picturesque, plus, there's a marker that tells you a bit more about the history of the spot. And how cool to claim that for just a moment, you are the tallest person in Ohio?

10. Hike to Ash Cave

It's perhaps one of the most recognizable places in Ohio, but it never fails to disappoint. The trail to Ash Cave is just 0.5 miles in total, and it's an easy loop that can be enjoyed by all ages. What we love about this trail is the variety. You'll get to experience the cave, a waterfall, and a stair-step climb all in one quick circuit. But don't rush this; you'll want to savor every minute of the gorgeous scenery!

11. Dine at The Aperture

Named one of the best restaurants of the year by The New York Times, The Aperture in Walnut Hills is a new restaurant that's made a big splash in Cincinnati's culinary scene. The Art Deco building where you'll find this restaurant hosts live cooking demonstrations and some of the most creative and inspired Mediterranean dishes imaginable. Learn more when you visit The Aperture online.

12. Sip on a Cappuccino From Donkey Coffee in Athens

It's been called the best coffee shop in Ohio, and that alone warrants a visit. However, what folks really seem to love about this special Athens locale is the community you'll find inside its 4,000-square-foot space. Oh, and don't forget to order a muffin while you're at Donkey Coffee. By all accounts, they are amazing.

13. Sleep in a Treehouse

No matter your age, there's something magical about the idea of staying in a treehouse. This off-grid treehouse Airbnb in Ohio promises this exact experience. But there are a few things to know before booking your stay: this spot has no electricity, no running water, and limited cell service. (Drinking water and a composting toilet are just a short walking distance away from the cabin). The treehouse can accommodate up to six guests and features a fire pit as well as breathtaking views.

14. Take a Hidden Breweries Tavern Tour

On this particular guided tour, you'll get to explore two sets of Cincinnati beer caverns: Linck Brewery tunnels and the Jackson Brewery tunnels. It's a fascinating perspective of Cincinnati, whether you're a history buff or beer enthusiast. Plus, you'll end your hidden breweries tavern tour with some local beer from Northern Row Taproom.

15. Enjoy Ice Cream From Mitchell's

On the first warm day of the year, we're headed to Mitchell's (the Ohio City Kitchen & Shop location) to try some of their made-from-scratch ice cream. Not only is this business known for its iconic ice cream and creative flavors, but it's also possible to watch the ice cream being made right before your eyes.

16. Hoist a Stein at Oktoberfest

With plenty of German roots in the Buckeye State, we're fortunate to have some truly remarkable Oktoberfest celebrations here. From Oktoberfest Zinzinnati, the biggest such celebration in the entire country, to Cleveland's Oktoberfest and all the others in between, you'll find some of the best Oktoberfests in the U.S. right here in Ohio.

17. Go for a Dinner Cruise on the Ohio River

Set sail and cruise the Ohio River with a group of friends or a loved one as you enjoy unforgettable views and a delicious dining experience. Seeing the Cincinnati skyline from a river cruise is a bucket-list-worthy experience you won't soon forget!

18. Go Camping at Geneva State Park

No year spent in Ohio is complete without some quality time on the water. For this, we're headed to Geneva State Park to enjoy the Lake Erie shoreline in all of its glory. There's plenty to enjoy during the day, and if you want to stay the night, the campground is equally impressive. Just be sure to make a reservation before your adventure.

19. Spend an Autumn Weekend in Oberlin

This small town in Ohio exudes charm, and we'd relish the chance to get to know it better by spending an entire weekend in Oberlin, Ohio. In our opinion, it's a top city to visit in Ohio in 2026 because of its beautiful blend of history and progress. With its academic and artistic foundation, there's so much in the way of museums to explore and architecture to admire. Plus, it wouldn't be a college town without tons of delicious restaurants to try. (We're looking at you, Lorenzo's!) Even better? A few nights at The Hotel at Oberlin—truly the icing on the cake.

20. Visit Ohio’s One and Only National Park

If you've yet to visit Cuyahoga Valley National Park (or even if you have), make 2026 the year you explore Ohio's one and only national park. From waterfalls to historic charm galore, there's so much to love about Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It's an easy day trip from anywhere in the Buckeye State—be sure to snag your America the Beautiful Pass before you go!

21. Go on a Ghost Tour of Columbus

Columbus is beautiful by day, but as night falls, some of its landmarks become a bit otherworldly. Don't believe us? Sign up for a Columbus Ghost Tour and not only will you enjoy a walking tour of the city's most interesting attractions, but you'll also hear some bone-chilling tales from the past 200 years.

22. Attend the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival

There's something so enchanting about finding yourself surrounded by lanterns. This is especially true at the Columbus Zoo Lantern Festival, where each lantern is a work of art. This family-friendly event in Central Ohio features over 70 sets of Asian lanterns in the form of wildlife and nature from around the globe.

23. Book a Stay at the Historic Lafayette Hotel

Looking for a destination steeped in history? Why not stay in the renowned Lafayette Hotel, found in the Buckeye State’s first town of Marietta, Ohio. Believed by some to be haunted, this captivating accommodation harkens back to Ohio’s grand riverboat era, combining with Art Deco design and Beaux-Arts architecture.

24. Explore the State's Most Dazzling Christmas Light Displays

Ohio knows how to shine during the holidays. If you want to embrace the magic of the season, check out this list of some of Ohio's best Christmas lights displays. Load the whole family in the car and make a road trip of it!

25. Visit an Ohio Castle

Ohio is home to a stunning array of stone structures, from the Arthurian-like Loveland Castle or the picturesque Squires Castle to the luxurious Landoll’s Mohican Castle in Loudonville. Each comes with a story as fascinating as the structure's storied walls, making each a wonder worthy of further exploration. 

26. Hike to a Frozen Honey Run Falls

Our list concludes in the same way it started: a brisk hike to a frozen natural wonder. Honey Run Falls Trail turns into our very own winter wonderland, and the trail itself is only half a mile round trip. It's the perfect spot for trudging through a little snow and then marveling at a frozen waterfall.

Well, there you have it: 26 adventures to make 2026 unforgettable. Which are you most excited about? Be sure to send this article to someone you'd love to explore Ohio with—and don't forget to tell us about all your favorite spots in the Buckeye State.

Ready to start exploring in 2026? Create your own Ohio bucket list with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.