Overview

Ohio blends Midwestern warmth with urban energy, natural beauty, and deep historical roots. Known as the Buckeye State, it’s a place where you can explore world-class museums, national parks, aviation history, and charming small towns — all within a day’s drive. Whether you’re discovering the music scene in Cleveland, enjoying riverfront fun in Cincinnati, or hiking through Hocking Hills, Ohio offers something for everyone.

  • Capital: Columbus
  • Largest Cities: Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron
  • Population: ~11.8 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time (UTC−5) / EDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Humid continental — cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers

Top Destinations in Ohio

Columbus

The state capital and a youthful, creative city known for Ohio State University, a thriving arts district, and great food.

Cleveland

Set on Lake Erie, Cleveland boasts world-famous museums, a passionate sports culture, and the legendary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Cincinnati

Known for its rolling hills, chili, historic neighborhoods, and scenic Ohio River views — plus baseball and beer.

Hocking Hills

A nature lover’s paradise with waterfalls, hiking trails, caves, and scenic overlooks tucked in southeast Ohio.

Toledo

A glass city with excellent museums, a revitalized waterfront, and access to Lake Erie recreation.

Must-See Attractions

  • Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland) – Celebrating music legends and interactive exhibits
  • Cedar Point (Sandusky) – “The Roller Coaster Capital of the World”
  • Hocking Hills State Park – Trails, waterfalls, and caves like Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave
  • National Museum of the U.S. Air Force (Dayton) – One of the largest aviation museums in the world
  • Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden – One of the oldest and best zoos in the U.S.

Things to Do

  • Tour craft breweries and wineries from Columbus to the Lake Erie shores
  • Bike or hike along the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail
  • Catch a Buckeyes, Browns, Bengals, Guardians, or Reds game
  • Explore covered bridges and Amish Country in Holmes County
  • Take a Lake Erie island getaway to Put-in-Bay or Kelleys Island

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • John Glenn Columbus International (CMH), Cleveland Hopkins (CLE), Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG), Dayton International (DAY), Akron–Canton (CAK)

Transport

  • Amtrak runs through northern Ohio cities
  • Public transit available in major metros like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati
  • Rental cars recommended for rural areas, parks, and road trips

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Apr–May): Great for gardens, parks, and fewer crowds
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Perfect for Cedar Point, lake towns, and festivals
  • Fall (Sep–Oct): Foliage season, apple picking, and harvest events
  • Winter (Nov–Feb): Ideal for skiing, museums, and holiday lights

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: Comfort food meets immigrant roots with Eastern European, Appalachian, and German influences
  • Specialties: Buckeyes (chocolate peanut butter candies), pierogies, Cincinnati chili, kielbasa, sauerkraut balls
  • Drinks: Ohio wines, craft beers, bourbon, and Lake Erie iced wines
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Ohio State Fair (Columbus)
  • Cleveland International Film Festival
  • Oktoberfest Zinzinnati – One of the largest in the U.S.
  • Circleville Pumpkin Show
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival (Canton)

Souvenirs from Ohio

  • Buckeye candies or peanut butter spread
  • Local wines or craft beers
  • Rock & Roll Hall of Fame merchandise
  • Handmade Amish quilts or wood crafts
  • Cincinnati chili spice kits or Skyline Chili cans

Fun Facts

  • Ohio is the birthplace of aviation — the Wright brothers hailed from Dayton
  • The state has produced eight U.S. presidents
  • Cedar Point is one of the oldest amusement parks in the U.S.
  • Columbus is the fastest-growing city in the Midwest
  • Ohio is home to the first professional baseball team — the Cincinnati Reds

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day City & Nature Combo

  • Day 1: Columbus – explore Short North Arts District and German Village
  • Day 2: Hocking Hills – hike Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave
  • Day 3: Cincinnati – riverwalk, Findlay Market, and skyline views

5-Day Ohio Road Trip

  • Day 1: Cleveland – Rock Hall and Lake Erie sunset
  • Day 2: Sandusky – thrill rides at Cedar Point
  • Day 3: Dayton – Air Force Museum and Wright brothers history
  • Day 4: Columbus – city highlights and Scioto Mile
  • Day 5: Amish Country – slow down in Holmes County with food and local crafts

Cities

  • Columbus