Things to do & places to visit in Ohio, United States

If you are looking for an active place to stay with world-class attractions, Ohio’s major cities can satisfy any vacation desire. Each offers its own distinct flavor of fun, from professional sports – Bengals (Cincinnati), Cavaliers (Cleveland) and Indians (Cleveland again) – to museums, outdoor activities and more. One of the most famous is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. If football is your thing, don’t miss the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton. For the science-minded, visit the meat eaters at the Carnivore Conservation Center in the Wilds near Cambridge, dedicated to the breeding and scientific study of endangered mid-sized carnivores. Kids will also love Planet Snoopy in Sandusky or the Columbus Zoo’s Zoombezi Bay Waterpark and Jack’s Landing rides.

Ohio #18 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.49 based on 236.5k traveler reviews, of 4.047 attractions. Timezone: America/New_York, current date and time: Thursday, April 25, 2024, 5:17.

Top things to do (40)

Top destinations in Ohio 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 National Museum of the US Air Force (5.043 reviews)
- Top-rated travel experience
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

Just a fantastic travel experience. Unique, awesome in scale, appeals to a wide array of audiences. I loved seeing all of the different Air Force One's- neat to see their development (including FDR's wheelchair component) and to see the plane where LBJ took the oath. The kids loved the VR things (which have an additional cost but since the museum is free otherwise it's not too bad). The kids can explore and walk around in planes. We were there for like 2 hours and only saw a small part. It's a fantastic travel experience and highly recommend if you are anywhere in southwest Ohio. The kids loved it (6 and 12) and I and the wife loved it, which is often hard to make everyone happy but this nails it. I want to go back and see the rest. See more..
5.0 Hocking Hills Canopy Tours (4.417 reviews)
- "X" Tour
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Zipline & Aerial Adventure Parks

We had a family reunion in Hocking Hills over the July 4th holiday and booked the "X" Tour. Justin and Raquel were AWESOME guides and really made the experience great - there is a little bit of downtime while you're waiting on the platform and they did a great job of telling stories and asking questions to get to know us all better. I was nervous to zip-line because I am not a fan of heights; however, the guides made me feel comfortable and after a few of the lines I was jumping off without a worry in the world. I would definetly recommend this tour if you're visiting the area! See more..
5.0 Cleveland Museum of Art (3.535 reviews)
- World Class Art Museum
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Art Museums

The Cleveland Museum of Art creates transformative experiences through art, “for the benefit of all the people forever.” The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for the quality and breadth of its collection, which includes more than 61,000 objects and spans 6,000 years of achievement in the arts. The museum is a significant international forum for exhibitions, scholarship, and performing arts. One of the top comprehensive art museums in the nation and free of charge to all, the Cleveland Museum of Art is located in the dynamic University Circle neighborhood. See more..
5.0 American Legacy Tours (2.346 reviews)
- Zach with American Legacy Tours is FIVE STAR
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Ghost & Vampire Tours • Historical & Heritage Tours • Walking Tours • Food Tours • Bus Tours

ZACH with American Legacy Tours gave us a fantastic (impromptu) historical tour of downtown Cincy! We booked the wrong day by accident...showed up during crazy busy BLINK and by chance ran into him. He thoughtfully showed us a few highlights and gave us ideas on where to enjoy the city. He has an amazing knowledge base of the historical significance of many sites and delivers it in an enthusiastic and interesting way! Ask for Zach!! See more..
5.0 The Escape Room USA - Columbus (2.194 reviews)
- Morgan’s Raid on Your Pocket Book
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

The Escape Room USA – Columbus offers a NEW, fun, and interactive adventure game designed for everyone. The concept: You and your team are locked in a themed room where you have 60 minutes to find clues, solve puzzles, and discover keys and combinations to escape the room before your time is up! The Escape Room USA is fun with your family, friends, and co-workers! See more..
5.0 Riverside Food Tours (1.439 reviews)
- Our Lovely tour of the city of Cincinnati
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM City Tours • Walking Tours • Beer Tastings & Tours • Sightseeing Tours • Food Tours

My husband booked a tour of the city which included at least 6 different restaurants for a sample of their signature treat. We were blessed with 45 degrees weather in December, so it was a beautiful day to stroll around the city. Our tour guide Beth, was amazing! She was friendly,kind and very knowledgeable! Since we were the only folks on the tour we did not feel rushed. We also were able to ask lots of questions. We truly enjoyed the city of Cincinnati,and highly recommend Riverside Food Tours for an incredible experience of food,sights and plenty of history! Had we tried to venture the city on our own, we would not have had the same experience! This 3 hour tour,was money and time well spent!! See more..
5.0 Toledo Museum of Art (1.206 reviews)
- Outstanding
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Museums

Art from all over the world and every time period is housed at this outstanding museum, considered one of the world's best. From paintings by Renoir to sculptures by Alexander Calder to a vast glass collection, you'll find wonderful treasures here. Founder and first president Edward Drummond Libbey wanted to build a place where art was accessible to everyone, hence the museum's free admission policy, which continues to this day. The Toledo Museum of Art is open: Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.Friday & Saturday: 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.Closed Mondays & Tuesdays, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. See more..
5.0 Breakout Games - Cincinnati (Hyde Park) (1.198 reviews)
- Jake is so Slay
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

This isn’t your average outing or everyday experience—Breakout is for those who would rather solve mysteries than watch someone else have all the fun. With different rooms that follow unique story-lines, you and your friends will have 60 minutes to escape your adventure of choice by cracking codes, solving puzzles and following clues. Part problem solving, part adrenaline, end-to-end fun! See more..
5.0 Carillon Historical Park (965 reviews)
- Old buildings and the Wright Brother's 1905 plane
Thursday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Children's Museums • History Museums

Carillon Historical Park inspires generations by connecting them with the unique people, places, and events that changed Dayton and the world. With more than 30 museum exhibits onsite, Carillon Historical Park showcases Dayton’s rich heritage of creativity, invention, and milestones in innovation that changed the nation and the world! The park houses the John W. Berry, Sr. Wright Brothers National Museum featuring the original 1905 Wright Flyer III, an impressive collection of NCR cash registers, the Carousel of Dayton Innovation, Gem City Letterpress (NEW!), and so much more! See more..
5.0 Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens (833 reviews)
- Extraordinary Home and holiday lights
Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Gardens

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is open for tours Tues.-Sun from April 1 - Dec. 30; it is closed on Mondays. The historic estate includes a 64,500 sq. ft. Manor House, historic gardens and grounds. Hours change the day after Thanksgiving through 12/30 for the holiday event, DECK THE HALL. Visit stanhywet.org for complete info. Completed in 1915, Stan Hywet Hall was built for the family of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. It was named Stan Hywet, Old English for stone quarry, after the property’s most prominent natural feature. The 65-room Manor House is one of the finest examples of Tudor Revival architecture in America, and the sixth largest home open to the public. The Gate Lodge at the entrance to the estate has its own historic significance. In 1935, two admitted alcoholics met there and talked long into the night, when the principles that still serve as the cornerstone of Alcoholics Anonymous were identified. See more..
5.0 The Escape Game Cincinnati (769 reviews)
- WE WILL BE BACK!
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

The Escape Game is a live 60-minute adventure. You and your team will select a challenge and will have one hour to complete your mission and escape. We offer several unique experiences, all happening in a completely immersive environment. You may be in prison planning an escape, in a dark forest trying to find hidden gold or in a museum stealing back a piece of art. See more..
5.0 Breakout Games - Dayton (760 reviews)
- Great escape!
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

This isn’t your average outing or everyday experience—Breakout is for those who would rather solve mysteries than watch someone else have all the fun. With different rooms that follow unique story-lines, you and your friends will have 60 minutes to escape your adventure of choice by cracking codes, solving puzzles and following clues. Part problem solving, part adrenaline, end-to-end fun! See more..
4.5 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (9.822 reviews) from $35.90
- Bucket list item for rock and roll fans
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

Headquartered in a boldly designed building on Lake Erie's shore, The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a 150,000-square-foot museum featuring ever-changing exhibits documenting the history of rock and roll, from Elvis to our days. You’ll see hundreds of original artifacts, from Jimi Hendrix outfits to The Beatles’ handwritten lyrics. Experience the excitement of a Rock Hall induction night at the Power of Rock Experience or have your very own jam session at the Garage. You can also watch a concert while you're here, so check out the Rock Hall’s schedule and plan ahead. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Cedar Point (9.187 reviews)
- Not Thrilled by the Thrill Rides but that's my issue, Cedar Point truly offers a lot for those who aren't faint of heart
Thursday: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM Amusement & Theme Parks • Water Parks

More than just an amusement park, Cedar Point features hotels, restaurants, beautiful grounds along with an impressive variety of thrill-rides. See more..
4.5 West Side Market (4.433 reviews)
- Surprising Experience!
Thursday: Historic Sites • Flea & Street Markets

Built in 1912, this thriving public market offers fresh produce, meat, dairy products and a delicious variety of prepared foods. See more..
4.5 Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (3.922 reviews)
- Many Animals!
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos • Gardens

This second oldest zoo in the U.S., considered one of the best in the country, is most renowned for its endangered species and birthing programs, particularly for gorillas and white tigers, and has a wonderful collection of felines and a delightful manatees exhibit. See more..
4.5 Easton Town Center (3.292 reviews)
- A great shopping,dining and entertainment experience
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks

In stark contrast to the old-country aura of German Village, Easton is the most modern neighborhood in the city, its architecturally contemporary town center drawing shoppers and tourists to an array of nationally and regionally known stores, plentiful restaurants and varied entertainment. See more..
4.5 Great American Ball Park (2.919 reviews)
- Four Generations at the Game
Arenas & Stadiums

This new home for the Cincinnati Reds, the oldest major league baseball team in the U.S., balances its spiffy new look with nostalgic tributes to the team's history including reminders of Crosley Field, where it all began. See more..
4.5 Columbus Zoo and Aquarium (2.630 reviews)
- Nice zoo
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos • Aquariums

Home to more than 11,000 animals representing nearly 600 species from around the globe, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium leads and inspires by connecting people and wildlife. The Zoo complex is a recreational and education destination that includes the 22-acre Zoombezi Bay water park and 18-hole Safari Golf Course. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium also operates the Wilds, a 10,000-acre conservation center and safari park located in southeastern Ohio. The Zoo is a regional attraction with global impact; annually contributing $4 million of privately raised funds to support conservation projects worldwide. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, the Columbus Zoo has earned Charity Navigator’s prestigious 4-star rating. See more..
4.5 Progressive Field (2.410 reviews)
- A five star - no hit experience. Yep, a NO HITTER.
Arenas & Stadiums

Cleveland Indians ballpark seats more than 43,000 people and features three levels of suites and a large-tiered stadium club. See more..
4.5 A Christmas Story House (2.272 reviews)
- Tour the house used in "A Christmas Story"
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Points of Interest & Landmarks

A Christmas Story House, now restored to its movie splendor, is open year round to the public for tours. Directly across the street from the house is the official A Christmas Story House Museum, which features original props, costumes and memorabilia from the film, as well as hundreds of rare behind-the-scenes photos. Among the props and costumes are the toys from the Higbee's window, Randy's snowsuit, the chalkboard from Miss Shields' classroom and the family car. After reliving A Christmas Story at Ralphie's house don't forget to visit the museum gift shop for your own Major Award Leg Lamp and other great movie memorabilia. See more..
4.5 Pro Football Hall of Fame (2.218 reviews)
- Take the Insiders Tour
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums • Sports Camps & Clinics • Sports Complexes

Visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame and create unforgettable family memories. Teach your kids about the Legends of the Game in the historic Bronzed Bust Gallery. Make the call in our interactive replay booth. Take a family photo next to the iconic Lombardi Trophy. Witness the Super Bowl like never before in our Super Bowl 55 Theater and see the full collection of all 55 Super Bowl rings. See more..
4.5 Toledo Zoo (1.854 reviews)
- Great day...EXCEPT
Thursday: 3:00 PM - 9:00 PM Zoos

Enjoy making memories as you and your family explore indoor and outdoor exhibits that feature more than 10,000 individual animals representing over 720 species! Find adventure for the whole family between the Aquarium, ProMedica Museum of Natural History, and interactive Nancy L. and Martin Davidson Barnyard. See more..
4.5 Cincinnati Museum Center (1.834 reviews)
- You Could Spend All Day Here
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Natural History Museums • Science Museums • Children's Museums • History Museums

Visit cincymuseum.org for details on updates regarding the museums, programs, events, hours and more! See more..
4.5 Cleveland Metroparks Zoo (1.683 reviews)
- Asian Lantern Festival Amazing
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zoos

Don't miss this exciting metropolitan zoo best known for having the largest collection of primates in the United States and for its Rainforest exhibit, which features a thrilling simulated tropical rain storm. See more..
4.5 Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens (1.658 reviews)
- Magical holiday lights
Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Art Galleries • Historic Sites • Gardens

A botanical landmark just two miles east of downtown Columbus, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens features exotic plant collections and displays, seasonal exhibitions, outdoor gardens (including community and culinary gardens) and a variety of educational programming. All set within the 88-acre Franklin Park. Inspired by horticulture, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens elevates quality of life and connects the community through educational, cultural and social experiences. All ages can partake in a variety of special events and activities throughout the year. A full menu of classes, workshops and camps are offered in gardening, cooking, fine art and wellness. With its natural surroundings, both indoors and out, the Conservatory serves as a premier venue for special events and corporate gatherings. See more..
4.5 COSI Center of Science and Industry (1.463 reviews)
- WOW!
Thursday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Science Museums

COSI, the #1 Science Museum in the Country as voted by USA Today’s 10Best, is an esteemed science center that has delighted Central Ohio, with all things science for 58 years, inspiring interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) topics and delivering our experiential, "hands-on fun" brand of learning. As a trusted educational resource for families, schools and community partners, COSI is an essential element of our community, engaging more than one million people annually through onsite, offsite and online experiences. See more..
4.5 Fountain Square (1.281 reviews)
- Park, seating & fountain
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Fountain Square is the center of Cincinnati since 1871. There are shops, restaurants, tables & seating along with many transportation stops. The square, was a gift from Henry Probasco in memory of Tyler Davidson. Probasco traveled to Munich & commissioned a bronze fountain from Ferdinand von Miller named The Genius of Water. See more..
4.5 German Village (1.165 reviews)
- Adorable
Historic Sites • Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

A highway bridge over Interstate 70 is all that separates the German Village Historic District from downtown Columbus, but as one looks east from the interstate, the difference between old and new is glaring. A 20 story structure sits just north of the interstate bridge, and just south, in German Village, no structure is higher than three stories. Five blocks south, the spire of St. Mary Church stands 197’ off the sidewalk and towers over everything around it. Structures and sidewalks are orange masonry, and many streets (about half) are still brick pavers. German Village does not have a recreated sense of history or kitschy Bavarian feel ~ rather, it is a neighborhood with architecture dating from the 1840s-1890s that has been preserved, and its use as a shared residential and commercial neighborhood has been maintained. People walk to their destinations, park on the street due to the overwhelming absence of driveways, and live life at a very pedestrian level. The neighborhood is extremely dense ~ very often only inches separate neighboring structures, and many structures were built for multi-family use. German Village is notably different because its appearance has changed so little. See more..
4.5 Jungle Jim's International Market (1.109 reviews)
- Exploring the jungle!!!!
Thursday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM Flea & Street Markets

One of the largest farmers markets anywhere, covering more than 4 acres, virtually any type of food item is available. See more..