Ohio may not be the biggest state, but it’s full of amazing attractions and bucket-list-worthy destinations — so much so that it would take a lifetime to visit them all. So today, we’re starting a bit smaller, with a day-trip itinerary that’s still quite ambitious. If you have a tank of gas and a day to spare, we have the ultimate adventure for you! This epic one-day road trip across Ohio is full of fun from sunrise to sunset, offering an unrivaled experience of the Buckeye State you’re sure to remember.

Our Epic One Day Road Trip Across Ohio is non-stop action from start to finish, guaranteeing you'll experience the Buckeye State like never before!
Google Maps
Total trip time is 3.5 hours, excluding time spent at each destination. Given how awesome each of these places is, we recommend making the most of your time at each stop! View a customizable Google Map to plan your route.
Our trip begins in the beautiful Ohio State Capital, at one of the state's most legendary places: COSI.
Center of Science and Industry (COSI), 333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
COSI - Center Science and Industry/Facebook
This massive museum, known formally as the Center of Science and Industry, is unlike any other in the country, and takes visitors on far-away trips across the planet -- and solar system -- all without leaving Ohio!
COSI - Center of Science and Industry/Facebook
Whether you're young or young at heart, COSI is sure to capture your imagination and curiosity!
Next, we're off for a literal breath of fresh air at the incomparable Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203, USA
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens/Google Local
This glorious gem in Columbus spans about 13 acres and is comprised of the Conservatory building (which houses carnivorous plants and other amazing flora), The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden, and the Grand Mallway.
Sarah McCosham, OnlyInYourState
If you have kids in tow, this is an excellent place to let them run amok before hopping back in the car! It's also a lovely place for adults to wander, too.
When your stomach starts rumbling, we recommend a detour to a totally-Ohio restaurant: Talita's Southwest Cafe.
Talita's Burritos and Coneys, 1335 Dublin Rd, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
Talita's Southwest Cafe/Facebook
Here, you can indulge in chili, queso, and a true Ohio classic: the coney! Whether you're a diehard Skyline Chili aficionado or eschew the culinary masterpiece that is Cincinnati Chili, Talita's is a legendary Ohio eatery that's sure to tempt and tantalize your tastebuds.

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Fortified and feeling brave? Then you're ready for our next destination: The Ohio State Reformatory.
The Ohio State Reformatory, 100 Reformatory Rd, Mansfield, OH 44905, USA
The Ohio State Reformatory/Facebook
Tour the intact set of "The Shawshank Redemption" at this only-in-Ohio landmark. Whether you're reliving scenes from classic films, hunting for the paranormal, or basking in beautiful Romanesque architecture, this place is truly unlike any other in the state!
The Ohio State Reformatory/Facebook
No judgment if you simply want to drive past and wave "hello" from the car, however...

Curious to take a peek inside? Check out this video from TheDailyWoo:
Another stunningly beautiful building in Ohio, Stan Hywet Hall & Garden is a true hidden gem. It's located in the heart of Akron, but feels worlds away from this industrial hub.
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303, USA
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens/Facebook
Wander the grounds, traipse through a tree tunnel, and let yourself fall head-over-heels in love with the beautiful Buckeye State!
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303, USA
Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens/Facebook
We're ending the day at one of the most beautiful places in all of Ohio: University Circle.
University Circle, Cleveland, OH, USA
University Circle Inc./Facebook
Hailed as the "neighborhood without boundaries," University Circle is a beautiful and bustling community space that epitomizes the warm and welcoming culture of Ohio.
University Circle Inc./Facebook
There are plenty of spots within this mile-sized neighborhood where you can grab something delicious to eat and enjoy al fresco in one of the green spaces. And the sunsets here? Swoon!

Looking for more road trips in the Buckeye State? This family-friendly trip visits some of our state’s most noteworthy roadside attractions, and is sure to satisfy your wanderlust!

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Ohio Day Trip

Sarah M. | February 03, 2023

What are some other Ohio day trip destinations?

Looking for some fun adventures and day trip destinations to add to your Ohio bucket list? We've got you covered!

  • Mad River Mountain. An epic ski resort in Ohio? Yes! One of the most epic winter attractions in Ohio, Mad River Mountain in Zanesfield features all the wintertime fun you could possibly want—and then some. It’s home to the largest snow tubing park in the state and it’s a must-visit. With a total of four parks, each differing in size and activities, there's truly something for everyone here.
  • Malabar Farm State Park. In addition to beautiful hiking trails, it also features a farm, historic home and restaurant. While exploring Malabar Farm, you might even get to see some friendly animals. You also might spot a ghost or two! It's no wonder many consider this to be among the very best day trips in Ohio.
  • The Akron Zoo. The Akron Zoo features a wide variety of exotic animals, beautiful gardens and even some rides that kids will absolutely love. It has everything you love about the big city zoos without the massive crowds. The summer season lasts from April through October, and the animals are eager to see your smiling face. While you're at it, go ahead and add the Columbus Zoo *and* Cincinnati Zoo to your Ohio day trip list!
  • Land of Illusion Aqua Adventures. Looking to beat the heat? One of Ohio’s newest water parks, this picturesque beach also features a massive inflatable obstacle course that’s insanely fun. Other activities here include horseshoes, corn hole, paddle boarding and more. Land of Illusion Adventure Park is all sorts of fun!
  • Conkle's Hollow State Nature Preserve. Separate from (but close to) the beloved Hocking Hills State Park, this underrated nature preserve is just as inspiring as other popular hiking areas in the region, such as Old Man's Cave. You'll encounter several small waterfalls, steep cliffs and deep green everywhere you turn. It's the perfect place to get away and connect with nature, and its gorge is said to be one of the deepest in Ohio. (And yes, go ahead and add Hocking Hills to your Buckeye State bucket list, too!)
  • Ohio History Center. Looking to bone up on your Buckeye State history? The Ohio History Center tells the story of Ohio. You'll learn about everything from the discovery of ancient Indian cultures and artifacts to the history of farming and public transportation. While you're here, you'll also want to stroll through Ohio Village, a recreated 19th-century community.

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