Are you ready to embark on a trip of a lifetime? With so many fun and exciting places to visit this summer, it’s time to plan your next road trip! If you're searching for the best Ohio day trip ideas, you’ve come to the right place.
Keep reading to learn about five Ohio day trip ideas that make for the perfect getaway.
Art & Science Museums in Columbus
If you’re looking for some of the leading art and science museums in the country, Ohio is a top destination. For a day trip you won’t soon forget, check out the several museums in Columbus. The Columbus Museum of Art is a leading option, which features collections of American and European modern art, German Expressionism, Cubism, contemporary art, photography, glass, and more.
For those science lovers, you can’t miss COSI, the Center of Science and Industry. This is a nationally recognized science center that has been running for more than 55 years. COSI is especially focused on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) topics. From kids to older adults, everyone loves the hands-on experiences at COSI. With over 300 interactive experiences in a 320,000 square foot facility, there’s plenty to learn! Whether you enjoy live shows or even a Planetarium, there’s something for everyone at COSI.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a beautiful area located between Cleveland and Akron. As the outdoor weather has been beautiful, this is a great way to enjoy the sunshine. With countless hiking trails, nature walks, and interesting museums, Cuyahoga Valley National Park has it all. There are even fun activities for kids!
From golfing and fishing to biking and kayaking, there are tons of outdoor activities at the park. It’s even a great place to do some stargazing! Do you enjoy riding a bike? With several biking trails and amazing scenery, this is an excellent destination for a peaceful bike ride. Located close to Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the ideal location for a day trip. It’s also a great place for winter sports! People often enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the area. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the best Ohio day trip ideas out there!
Experience History of Innovation in Dayton
For a taste of innovation, head on over to Dayton, Ohio. This amazing destination is well-known for being Ohio’s largest and most cultural city. Located just north of Cincinnati, Dayton is considered the birthplace of aviation. This rich history is on display at Carillon Historical Park, which features an authentic Wright Brothers airplane.
Aviation lovers can also learn something at the National Museum of the United States Air Force located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Here you can see large collections of old and current military aircraft. Dayton is also known as a leading performing arts destination. The Schuster Performing Arts Center and the Victoria Theater are some of the top attractions of the city, which features Broadway shows and several dancing performances.
Hocking Hills State Park
This area provides some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Ohio. From a calming creek to unique rock formations, nature is on full display in Hocking Hills State Park. The area covers a remarkable 2,300 acres, covering seven non-continuous sections in Hocking Country. Those traveling to the park can enjoy plenty of hiking trails, canoe rides, fishing opportunities, and so much more. Swimming is also enjoyed at nearby sites, such as Rose Lake and Lake Logan.
While there is plenty to enjoy at Hocking Hills State Park, the caves and rock formations are some of the more unique experiences. The Conkle's Hollow gorge and Old Man's Cave are some of the top areas to check out. For a breathtaking hike, take an adventure on the Buckeye Trail and Conkle's Hollow Rim.
Go Spelunking in Ohio Caverns
Have you ever wanted to travel through some breathtaking caverns? Well now you can check that off the bucket list in Ohio! Located just outside of Dayton in Salem Township, you’ll find the Ohio Caverns. This incredible cave system is the largest in Ohio and is found in the Bellefontaine Outlier Devonian-age bedrock formation. The area was formed by glacial erosion from the last Ice Age.
Amazing crystals can be found throughout the caves, such as the enormous five-foot Crystal King crystal formation. The Natural Bridge pathway, the Jewel Room, and the Big Room are some other notable areas to check out. To learn more about the area, you can take a guided tour of the caves. You and your grandkids can also try some gemstone mining at the gift shop. Spelunking in the Ohio Caverns is an adventure you’ll remember for a lifetime!
