While Ohio is best known for its busy cities and strong local culture, during the autumn season, the state transforms into a colorful haven with a cool crispness to the air and plenty of great towns perfect for a fall adventure. From the amber-colored countryside to late-summer festivals, Ohio is a state worth visiting during the fall.
Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, to experience a new culture, or to simply unwind in peace, we’ve listed our favorite getaway spots in Ohio for a spectacular autumn getaway.
Hocking Hills
Located in southeastern Ohio, just 60 miles away from Columbus, Hocking Hills is one of the most well-known and breathtaking destinations in the state, and this is especially true during the autumn. The short distance makes it ideal for those interested in private jet flights, allowing them to travel in style and avoid the hassle of commercial airlines.
For those among you who love being outdoors, Hocking Hills is home to many miles of scenic hiking trails, including the iconic Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls. This time of the year is also the perfect time to enjoy horseback riding, which you can learn more about while in the area.
However, if you don’t want to spend all day on your feet and would instead prefer a more laid-back experience, we’d recommend staying in one of the many cozy cabins scattered throughout the area. What’s more, many of these cabins come with their own hot tubs and fireplaces so you can relax in warmth and luxury.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is widely considered to be one of the best hidden gems in all of Ohio and is the perfect place for anybody wanting to reconnect with nature. As one of the Midwest’s few national parks, it’s certainly worth the visit.
This national park contains over 125 miles of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails in this region are the Ledges Trail, Brandywine Gorge Trail, and the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. The latter is also great for cyclists, offering incredible views of the surrounding area.
Nearby, the charming town of Peninsula offers unique shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring. If you prefer a slower pace of life, we’d recommend visiting one of these small towns and living your best ‘Gilmore Girls’ life, just like Lorelei.
Amish Country
The rolling farmland, red wooden bridges, and quaint towns of this region are picture-perfect during the autumn months. A visit here offers a quiet space away from the bustling life of modern living, transporting you back to a bygone era.
While you’re in the area, we recommend exploring the local shops selling handmade furniture, quilts, and baked goods. During the autumn, when many crops are harvested, you’ll be able to buy fresh foods and ingredients, as well as traditional meats and cheeses.
Lake Erie Islands
While you might think of Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands as being summer vacation destinations, they’re just as charming during the fall, when there’s an added bonus of there being far fewer holidaymakers filling the streets.
The area is known for its Oktoberfest celebrations halfway through the fall season, where you’ll be able to indulge in German beer, bratwurst, and lively music. While there, you’ll be able to enjoy local Ohio wines, live entertainment, and delicious foods, so book your flight today!
However, for those looking for something a bit more supernatural, the Put-in-Bay Ghost Walks take place during October. They offer a spooky glimpse into the island’s haunted history. In the period leading up to Halloween, this is the perfect activity to get you in a spooky mood!
The Ohio River Scenic Byway
If being on the road helps you connect with your inner self, we’d recommend hitting the Ohio River Scenic Byway and putting your foot on the gas. This route stretches to over 450 miles and winds along the Ohio River, from the Indiana border to the West Virginia state line.
In autumn, this incredible byway is lined with trees bursting with color, giving visitors incredible views of the surrounding area as they pass through charming river towns and beautiful patches of countryside. If you want to see Ohio in all of its autumn glory, this stretch of road is perfect.
Stops along the way include Marietta, which is Ohio’s oldest city, where you can stroll along brick streets and learn more about the region’s riverboating history. In September, the town comes alive with the Marietta Sternwheel Festival, so make sure to book your trip soon.
Planning Your Autumnal Escape to Ohio
Autumn in Ohio offers a selection of natural beauty spots, charming towns, and outdoor activities. From the breathtaking landscapes of Hocking Hills to the winding roads of the Ohio River Scenic Byway, each destination offers a unique way to experience this special state.