7 Tourist Attractions In Ohio That Are Worth The Hype
By Sarah McCosham|Published September 14, 2023
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
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Tourist attractions get a bad rap. Often conflated with “tourist traps,” these sites are the ones you’ll find in every state guidebook or visitor center. While I’m all about discovering hidden gems (it’s something we pride ourselves here at OnlyInYourState), there are certainly some Ohio attractions I’d happily direct any out-of-stater to. From celebrated museums and historic sites to top-billed amusement parks, here are some tourist attractions in Ohio that are totally worth the hype:
1. Cedar Point
Cedar Point, 1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870, USA
For an action packed day trip from Cleveland that the whole family will enjoy, Cedar Point should be at the top of your list. Home to over 70 rides, there's a reason it's known as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World. And the views of Lake Erie from atop these sky-high coasters? Phenomenal.
Cleveland rocks! Not only is this city one of the hippest and most *underrated* towns in the country, it's also home to some world-class attractions that are not to be missed. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is one of them. Located right on Lake Erie in an iconic geometric building designed by famed architect I M PEi, this museum houses six floors of memorabilia and exhibits that follow the history and development of Rock and Roll. It's a must for all fans of the genre... and really, all fans of music - period!
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3. Glass City River Wall
Glass City River Wall, 1306 Miami St, Toledo, OH 43605, USA
The largest outdoor mural in the country, the Toledo Glass City River Wall is a beautiful public art instillation consisting of 28 brilliantly painted ADM silos along the Maumee River. It was an ambitious project announced amid a global pandemic, as a way of bringing the community together and providing a message of inclusion, representation, and hope.
I have memories of riding the Ferris wheel at the Ohio State Fair when I was six or seven -- it was a thrilling experience that stands out in a sea of childhood memories. Simply put, the Ohio State Fair is every bit as awesome as it's hyped up to be, and definitely worth adding to your annual calendar!
5. Hocking Hills
Ash Cave, 26400 OH-56, South Bloomingville, OH 43152, USA
The crown jewel of the Buckeye State, Hocking Hills is every bit as incredible as advertised. I love how accessible the trails and waterfalls are; I've visited with tiny children and the waterfall at Ash Cave (pictured) is a natural wonder your whole family will marvel over -- I promise.
The Cincinnati Zoo is a classic Ohio attraction that's world famous for a reason. Known for its conservation efforts, beautiful botanical gardens, and a very famous hippo family, the Zoo offers a wholly immersive and accessible experience with the wide and wonderful world that's, frankly, unrivaled.
7. Young's Jersey Dairy
Young's Jersey Dairy, 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd, Yellow Springs, OH 45387, USA
Yellow Springs is celebrated for its quirky downtown, scenic beauty, and covered bridge (Clifton Mill is ANOTHER must-visit tourist attraction in the area!), and Young's Jersey Dairy is 100% part of this equation. A working farm that's home to a restaurant and ice cream shop (the pumpkin ice cream is out of this world!), Young’s truly is a family-friendly destination. There’s an impressive selection of outdoor sports for families of all ages. The Udders & Pudders area of the farm features batting cages with hardball and softball machines, two miniature golf courses, and a natural grass driving range. And the seasonal festivals? So fun! No matter when you visit Young's Jersey Dairy, you're in for a treat.
What Ohio tourist attractions would you add to this list? The above selections are merely a drop in the bucket of, well, bucket-list-worthy attractions in Ohio… please nominate your favorite spots and, in the meantime, show some Buckeye State pride!
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