11 Surprising Firsts That Ohio Can Proudly Claim

If you live in the Buckeye State, you're likely proud to call Ohio home. And when traveling out of state, some things will always make you think of home – no matter where you are. Even after you've moved out of state, you'll always miss Ohio travel attractions and other things Ohio is known for. Let's be real, you'll never forget where you came from whenever you encounter these 11 things:

1. Scenic Back Roads That Show Off Ohio’s Timeless Beauty

Between Ohio's cities, amusement parks, and other attractions lies some of the best country road scenery you'll ever take in. These roads showcase the quieter, charming side of the Buckeye State that often gets overlooked. Rolling hills, farmland, and occasional rivers make driving through Ohio a scenic experience you won’t forget.

2. The Charm of Ohio’s Scenic Covered Bridges

Ohio is full of some of the most beautiful covered bridges. In fact, it has almost all the most covered bridges in the U.S. (Pennsylvania actually has the most, followed by Ohio). Pictured is the Knowlton Covered Bridge, which stretches over the Little Muskingum River in Monroe County. Some counties even host covered bridge festivals that celebrate these charming structures.

3. The Scent of Fall and Ohio’s Unforgettable Autumn Views

Sure, our seasons occur out of sequence and at any given time, but the three days out of the year we DO have fall are pure bliss. Locals eagerly anticipate this season, and it never fails to bring a touch of homesickness for those away from the state. From the blazing reds and golds of Hocking Hills to small-town streets lined with changing leaves, Ohio’s fall is iconic.

4. From the Tree to the Treat: Why Ohioans Love Their Buckeyes

No other state has a candy this delicious. Period! For many Ohioans, seeing or tasting a Buckeye instantly brings memories flooding back. Let's talk about peanut butter and chocolate treats – they are synonymous with Ohio, and it’s impossible not to crave them when you’re away.

5. The Irresistible Small-Town Charm That Defines Ohio

We've got plenty of it here. Whenever you experience it elsewhere, it reminds you of your hometown and state. When we think of parades, festivals, and farmers’ markets, they often highlight community pride and traditions. Here is the truth – Ohioans love that kind of slower, friendlier pace of life.

6. The Peaceful Beauty of Ohio’s Rural Scenery

This kind of scenery is the picture-perfect definition of Ohio, between the Ohio Amish Country and the back roads scattered throughout the state. Many visitors opt for scenic drives to experience the peacefulness and beauty of Amish Country. Wow, the landscape always evokes nostalgia and a deep sense of place.

7. Nothing Says Ohio Like Miles of Sunlit Cornfields

Joke about our massive amounts of corn all you want, but you know you get a little homesick when you're out of state and see that heartwarming sight. When it comes to summer and autumn, the cornfields in Ohio stretch for miles. That's what creates an unmistakable Midwestern landscape.

8. The Peaceful Beauty of Ohio’s Snow-Dusted Barns

Because there's no winter quite like an Ohio winter, let's talk about the combination of frozen rivers, frost, and cozy farmhouses – it's just so unique in Ohio. What about mornings? They are usually quiet, and fields and barns are blanketed in snow, creating iconic postcard scenes.

9. City Lights That Brighten Ohio’s Skyline

It's not ALL country here. Ohio has some really special cities. And no other cities in America are quite like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati. Can we talk about the rivers, skyline, and urban parks? That's what makes city living distinct from the countryside.

10. The Peace and Wonder of Ohio’s Great Outdoors

Ohio was made for explorers. When it comes to Ohio's scenic views, that's how we reconnect with the land we grew up on. From Hocking Hills to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures.

11. If There’s One Constant in Ohio… It’s Road Construction

Joking...sort of. (Actually, not at all.) From traffic lane closures, detours, and freshly paved roads, they are part of everyday life here. Actually, road construction in Ohio is just part of the rite of passage here. The locals know that seeing them being constructed makes us feel nostalgic for home.

What else would you add to this list? Let us know by completing this nomination form. Also, be sure to plan your Ohio adventure with our Itinerary Planner and see all these iconic sights for yourself.