Where to go on an Ohio road trip
If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure, you may be able to find exactly what you’re looking for in the state of Ohio. Destinations in the Buckeye State are notably varied with enough attractions for the whole family and all sorts of visitors to find fun. Here are the top 10 destinations for an Ohio road trip.
1. Explore Ohio’s crown jewel in Hocking County
When you visit the Hocking Hills of Hocking County, you’ll find yourself surrounded with seemingly endless outdoor opportunities no matter what you’re interested in. You can visit numerous parks to explore their hiking trails, or you can go for a scenic horseback ride. Rivers offer rafting and zip lines that will take you through the treetops.
2. Relax with a road trip to Ottawa County
If you’re looking for an Ohio road trip destination that lets you relax, Ottawa County may be your best bet. Located along the shores of Lake Erie, this region lets you enjoy time by the coast and even venture out into the water yourself in a boat or raft for some fishing or exploring. Additionally, bird-watching is common here thanks to the sheer variety of species in the area.
3. Find family-friendly thrills in Erie County
Erie County is located along Lake Erie, as the name would suggest, but that’s just the beginning of everything it has to offer. You’ll find fun for the whole family thanks to its numerous amusement parks. You can ride roller coasters all day or visit the largest indoor water park in America at the Kalahari Resort.
4. Take it easy in Ashtabula County wine country
If you’re looking for a more adult-oriented experience that’s relaxing and unforgettable, Ashtabula County is among the best options. This is wine country, and the Grand River Valley grows more than half of the grapes in the state and features over 2 dozen wineries. Check out a tour and a tasting while you enjoy the scenic views.
5. Take a road trip to Columbus in Franklin County
Ohio’s most populated city of Columbus can be found in Franklin County. When you take an Ohio road trip here, you’ll be met with a wide variety of activities to enjoy, from an internationally acclaimed zoo to the stunning Columbus Museum of Art that shows off the best that contemporary American and classic artists have to offer.
6. Venture to Cleveland in Cuyahoga County
Cuyahoga County is a popular Ohio road trip destination largely because it’s home to the city of Cleveland. In the downtown area, you’ll find the historic district and the Lake Erie shoreline that offers scenic walks and views. Meanwhile, delicious restaurants offering a massive variety of cuisine are available as well. Don’t forget to stop by the vibrant botanical garden and local amusement park, too.
7. Find outdoor fun in Logan County
If you’re looking for a satisfying outdoor adventure, Logan County has everything you need. There are numerous parks and nature preserves in the region for you to explore where you’ll find diverse wildlife, winding trails, and scenic views. The numerous lakes and streams in the area provide exciting fishing and boating opportunities as well.
8. Visit the ‘Athens of the West’ in Hamilton County
One of the most satisfying Ohio road trip destinations is Cincinnati, which is the seat of Hamilton County and is often called the “Athens of the West.” In this area, you’ll find endless entertainment with a bustling shopping district and impressive architectural feats like the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge. Among the most alluring attractions, however, is the food, whether you’re interested in the bar scene, gourmet restaurants, or food festivals. If the whole family is joining in on the fun, check out our guide to the top things to do with kids in Cincinnati.
9. Enjoy small-town charm in Fairfield County
If you’re looking for a relaxing experience on your Ohio road trip, Fairfield County is a premier destination. The communities here emanate small-town charm with their quaint offerings, delicious comfort food, and specialty shops offering local crafts. Taking a road trip here allows you to drive through several of the county’s iconic covered bridges.
10. Take a haunted Ohio road trip to Vinton County
For more daring travelers looking for a haunted Ohio road trip experience, Vinton County is your best bet. The Moonville Tunnel is especially notorious for strange happenings. It’s an old railroad tunnel with an undeniably ominous atmosphere. Hope Furnace gets reports of odd events occurring as well, so be sure to hit both locations for the full experience.