There’s plenty to do in the state of Ohio to fit your family’s travel budget this summer. Whether you’re planning a day or weekend getaway, you and your family can make memories all summer long in these six Ohio cities to explore.
Cleveland
Families can enjoy a day trip to one of the area’s many attractions such as popular spots like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or the wild adventure of the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. If you are not looking to travel out of town this year, consider a family museum tour by hitting all or most of these local attractions; including the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Cleveland Museum of Art, Greater Cleveland Aquarium, Great Lakes Science Center and Cleveland History Center.
Nature lovers will feel right at home along the shores of Lake Erie with family-friendly beaches such as Edgewater Park, Huntington Beach and Fairport Harbor Lakefront Park. If your family loves baseball, but wants to stay local, plan to hit every field this summer — including Cleveland Guardians, Lake County Captains, Akron Rubber Ducks and Lake Erie Crushers.
Columbus
From rooftop bars and restaurants to pro-sports and top-rated attractions, Columbus is great for everything from a date night to a family outing. Among the city’s favorite family attractions are the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and COSI (Center of Science and Industry), Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
Other must-see museum stops include the Columbus Museum of Art and the National Veterans Memorial and Museum. For baseball fans, don’t forget to grab a ticket at Huntington Park for the Columbus Clippers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians.
Toledo
This vibrant city is filled with a rich history, family-friendly attractions and delicious dining options. Spend time at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium or enjoy a hands-on science experience at Imagination Station. History buffs can explore the historic landmarks as well as tour the National Museum of the Great Lakes and the Toledo Museum of Art. Sports fans can attend a Toledo Mud Hens baseball game. Outdoor lovers who enjoy biking, hiking and kayaking will find adventure along the Maumee River Water Trail in Metroparks Toledo.
Canton
In Canton, families can explore historic sites such as McKinley Presidential Library & Museum or choose to enjoy modern family fun at Escape Room Downtown.
A tour of the MAPS AIR Museum allows guests to walk around and see 58 aircraft and 400 displays housed in a former military hangar.
For football fans, don’t miss the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Hall of Fame Village. From sports and arts to outdoor adventures, there’s something for all ages.
Cincinnati
Located along the Ohio River, and known for its German heritage, Cincinnati is ideal for a weekend getaway. Whether you and your family enjoy arts, music, theater or sports, there are countless events and activities to experience.
The city’s museum stops include Cincinnati Museum Center in the historic Union Terminal, Cincinnati Art Museum, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the American Sign Museum, for starters.
A trip to Cincinnati is not complete without taking in a Red’s game, the rides and fireworks at Kings Island, or stopping in for a taste of Skyline Chili, Montgomery Inn, and Graeter’s Ice Cream.
From the city’s iconic scenery to family-friendly attractions and hands-on fun, there’s a lot to do in Cincy. Walk across the Roebling Bridge, photograph the views of the skyline, feed a giraffe at the Cincinnati Zoo, or take a cruise on BB Riverboats.
Sandusky
When families think of Sandusky in Northern Ohio, Cedar Point Amusement Park is on top of their mind. Cedar Point is home to 68 rides, such as the family-friendly Wild Mouse as well as roller coasters like Steel Vengeance and Millennium Force. Plus, the park has several signature summer events like Light Up the Point on July 4 and 5 and Boardwalk Nights, July 18 through August 17, among others.
Right next door, visitors will find Cedar Point Shores Waterpark, with 18 acres of family fun for all ages. From a six-story plunge to a shallow-depth play area for kids, all of the water features at Cedar Point Shores promise hours of fun. Lake Erie beaches are also among the area’s top attractions. Swimming, fishing, boating and golf are a few popular activities.
