Ready to explore the best that Ohio has to offer?
From jaw-dropping natural wonders to hidden gems, this ultimate Ohio bucket list will take you on an unforgettable journey across the Buckeye State.
Think of historic towns, famous festivals, record-breaking landmarks and scenic spots that will make you say, “I had no idea this was in Ohio!”
Get ready to dive into 40 must-do experiences that will have you planning your next adventure before you even finish reading!
Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures
1. Explore Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park, located near Logan, is famous for its breathtaking cliffs, cascading waterfalls and fascinating rock formations like Old Man’s Cave and Ash Cave.
With miles of scenic trails and even zip-lining through the treetops, this park offers endless adventure, from exploring cool, shadowy gorges to discovering secret caves tucked deep in the forest.
2. See the Marblehead Lighthouse
Perched on the shores of Lake Erie, Marblehead Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes, guiding ships since 1822.
You can climb the spiral staircase to the top for panoramic views of Lake Erie and nearby islands.
3. Hiking at Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers some of Ohio’s most scenic hiking trails, winding through lush forests, peaceful meadows and alongside the flowing Cuyahoga River.
Explore popular trails like the Ledges Trail, with its dramatic rock formations and stunning overlook, or take a peaceful walk to Brandywine Falls, a breathtaking 70-foot waterfall deep in the forest.
4. Go to the Top of the Terminal Tower Observation Deck
The Terminal Tower Observation Deck, perched 42 stories high in downtown Cleveland, offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline, Lake Erie and the surrounding areas.
As one of Cleveland’s most iconic landmarks, this historic skyscraper features sweeping vistas on clear days and you can watch the city buzz beneath you.
5. Hike the Gorge Trail in John Bryan State Park
The Gorge Trail at John Bryan State Park takes you on a stunning journey along the Little Miami River, weaving between towering limestone cliffs and lush forest.
This scenic hike offers peaceful riverside views and even a chance to cross a historic footbridge, making it a real adventure.
6. Experience the Lake Erie Islands
The Lake Erie Islands, including popular spots like Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island, are packed with fun activities like wine tasting, biking and exploring glacial grooves.
Hop on a ferry to enjoy island hopping, rent a golf cart to explore, or relax by the shore while soaking in the lake views and live music-filled nightlife.
7. Camp at Mohican State Park
Mohican State Park offers an unforgettable camping experience, deep in the forest and along the Clear Fork River, perfect for roasting marshmallows under a canopy of stars.
Spend your days hiking wooded trails, paddling through scenic gorges or conquering the nearby mountain biking trails.
8. Discover the Serpent Mound
The Serpent Mound, located in Adams County, is a massive prehistoric earthwork shaped like a winding snake, stretching over 1,300 feet long.
This ancient wonder, believed to have been built by Indigenous cultures over 1,000 years ago, features scenic trails, an interpretive center and even an elevated viewing tower.
9. Enjoy Paddleboarding on Alum Creek Reservoir
Alum Creek Reservoir, located near Columbus, is a perfect spot for paddleboarding, with its calm waters and scenic surroundings of woodlands and sandy beaches.
Whether you’re a beginner or experienced paddler, you can cruise the water, enjoy a relaxing float under the sun and even paddle to quiet coves to catch a glimpse of local wildlife.
10. Take a Ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a nostalgic journey through Ohio’s only national park, with picturesque views of forests, rivers and historic sites along the way.
Choose a themed ride like the “Grape Escape” wine-tasting tour or the family-friendly Polar Express, and enjoy the leisurely pace as the train winds through one of Ohio’s most beautiful landscapes.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
11. Tour the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit for music lovers, offering 7 floors of interactive exhibits, legendary instruments and iconic memorabilia from artists like The Beatles, Elvis and Beyoncé.
Explore themed galleries, watch rare concert footage and dive into the history of rock’s biggest moments.
12. Tour the German Village in Columbus
Wander the brick-paved streets of Columbus’s German Village, a charming historic neighborhood filled with 19th-century homes, cozy cafés and unique shops.
Stop by the famous Book Loft to browse 32 rooms of books, enjoy schnitzel and stroll through Schiller Park to experience the old-world charm right in the heart of the city.
13. Step Back in Time at the Amish Country
A visit to Ohio’s Amish Country, centered around Holmes County, offers a glimpse into a simpler way of life with horse-drawn buggies, hand-made quilts and fresh baked goods at every turn.
Explore quaint shops selling handcrafted furniture, take a scenic drive through rolling farmland and enjoy hearty meals at farm-to-table restaurants serving authentic Amish favorites.
14. See a Show at the Columbus Ohio Theatre
The Ohio Theatre in Columbus, often called the “Official Theatre of Ohio,” is a stunning 1928 movie palace known for its grand architecture, intricate chandeliers and velvet-lined seats.
Catch a Broadway show, symphony performance or ballet, and experience the magic of live entertainment in this beautifully restored, historic venue.
15. Visit the Zoar Village Historic Site
Step back in time at Zoar Village, a charming 19th-century settlement founded by German Separatists, where history comes to life through costumed interpreters and restored buildings.
Wander through the flower-filled communal garden, tour the original schoolhouse and bakery, and learn about the unique communal lifestyle that once thrived here.
16. Explore the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield
The Ohio State Reformatory, famous as a filming location for The Shawshank Redemption, offers eerie tours of its towering Gothic structure, abandoned cells and haunted hallways.
You can take a self-guided tour, join a ghost tour or explore the prison’s fascinating history through artifacts and stories from its days as a working penitentiary.
17. Walk Through the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus is a lush wonderland filled with exotic plants, vibrant flowers and captivating art installations, including glassworks by Dale Chihuly.
Stroll through themed biomes like the tropical rainforest, desert and butterfly garden, or enjoy seasonal displays such as blooming orchids or a festive holiday light show.
18. Learn About Aviation at the Wright Brothers National Museum
The Wright Brothers National Museum in Dayton houses the world’s largest collection of Wright artifacts, including an original 1905 Wright Flyer, offering a deep dive into the birth of aviation.
Explore hands-on exhibits, learn about the brothers’ journey from bicycle makers to aviation pioneers and discover how Ohio became the “Birthplace of Flight.”
19. Explore Marietta on the Ohio River
Situated along the banks of the Ohio River, Marietta is Ohio’s oldest city, offering a blend of history, scenic river views and small-town charm.
Wander through historic neighborhoods, visit the Ohio River Museum or enjoy a paddleboat cruise as you soak up the city’s riverside culture.
20. See the Covered Bridges of Ashtabula County
Ashtabula County is home to 19 beautiful covered bridges, including the longest covered bridge in the U.S., the 613-foot Smolen-Gulf Bridge.
Take a scenic drive through the countryside, visit the charming Harpersfield Bridge and snap some photos of these historic structures that evoke a storybook feel, especially in the fall.
21. Check Out the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock in Sugarcreek
Known affectionately as “Little Switzerland,” the town of Sugarcreek is home to the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock which charms visitors with its half-hourly show, complete with dancing figurines and polka music.
While you’re there, explore the town’s Swiss-inspired shops and restaurants.
Thrilling Experiences & Family Fun
22. Ride the Coasters at Cedar Point
Cedar Point, known as “The Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” offers 70 rides, including 17 world-class coasters like the towering Millennium Force and the heart-racing Steel Vengeance.
Situated on a scenic peninsula along Lake Erie, this amusement park delivers non-stop excitement with water rides, live entertainment and stunning lake views.
23. Take a Ghost Tour in Athens
Known as one of the most haunted towns in Ohio, Athens offers spooky ghost tours that explore eerie legends surrounding Ohio University and the abandoned Athens Lunatic Asylum.
Wander through old cemeteries, hear chilling stories of restless spirits and experience the thrill of searching for the unexplained in one of the state’s most haunted hotspots.
24. Enjoy the Wildlights at the Columbus Zoo
During the holiday season, the Columbus Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with millions of sparkling lights, animated displays and festive music for the annual Wildlights event.
You can meet Santa’s reindeer, sip hot cocoa while strolling through glowing pathways and enjoy glimpses of nocturnal animals illuminated under the holiday lights.
25. Go Ice Skating at Fountain Square in Cincinnati
Fountain Square in Cincinnati turns into a magical ice rink during the winter months, inviting skaters of all ages to glide under twinkling lights and the iconic Tyler Davidson Fountain.
Warm up afterward with hot drinks from nearby cafés or stay for seasonal events like live music and holiday markets.
26. Ski or Snowboard at Mad River Mountain
Mad River Mountain, Ohio’s largest ski resort, offers winter fun with 20 trails, terrain parks and tubing lanes perfect for both beginners and seasoned skiers.
With cozy lodge vibes, night skiing and Ohio’s longest tubing hill, it’s the go-to spot for an adrenaline-filled day in the snow.
27. Pick Apples at Lynd Fruit Farm
Lynd Fruit Farm in Pataskala is a fall favorite, where families can wander through scenic orchards to pick crisp apples, including fan-favorites like Honeycrisp and Fuji.
After filling your bags, stop by the farm market for fresh cider, apple donuts and seasonal pumpkins to complete your perfect autumn outing.
Festivals, Food and Unique Ohio Experiences
28. Eat a Buckeye Candy
A beloved Ohio treat, Buckeye candies are made with creamy peanut butter centers dipped in rich chocolate, resembling the nuts of the state tree.
You’ll find these sweet delights at bakeries and festivals across the state.
29. Sip Your Way Through an Ohio Wine Trail
Explore one of Ohio’s many wine trails, where you can sample award-winning wines from almost 300 wineries, each offering its own unique flavors and scenic vineyard views.
From the cool-climate Rieslings of the Lake Erie region to the rich reds of southern Ohio, this state has a growing wine scene, perfect for a weekend escape.
30. Cheer at the Circleville Pumpkin Show
The Circleville Pumpkin Show, dubbed “The Greatest Free Show on Earth,” celebrates all things pumpkin with giant gourds, parades, live music and pumpkin-flavored treats galore.
From the famous pumpkin pie to a towering 400-pound pumpkin cake, this fall festival is an Ohio tradition you don’t want to miss.
31. Indulge in a Cincinnati Chili Experience
Cincinnati’s unique chili, served over spaghetti and topped with cheese, onions and beans, is a must-try for food lovers visiting the Queen City.
Head to iconic spots like Skyline or Gold Star to order it “3-way” or “5-way,” and don’t forget to pair it with a side of coney dogs for the ultimate local feast.
32. See the Giant Rubber Stamp in Cleveland
The Giant Rubber Stamp, officially called “Free Stamp,” sits proudly in Cleveland’s Willard Park, standing 28 feet tall and weighing over 70,000 pounds.
This quirky pop-art sculpture spells the word “FREE” and makes for a fun photo op while exploring downtown’s public art scene near the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
33. Browse Ohio’s Flea Markets
Ohio’s flea markets are packed with antiques and handmade goods, with popular spots like the Rogers Flea Market and the Springfield Antique Show & Flea Market drawing bargain hunters from all over.
Whether you’re looking for vintage vinyl, rustic furniture or homemade jams, these markets are so much fun to explore.
34. Try Brier Hill Pizza in Youngstown
Youngstown’s Brier Hill pizza is a local gem, featuring a thick, crunchy crust topped with a generous layer of sauce and a blanket of cheese that extends to the edges.
Grab a slice at this iconic spot and experience this delicious regional twist that’s a favorite among locals.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
35. Visit the A Christmas Story House in Cleveland
Step into holiday nostalgia at the A Christmas Story House in Cleveland, where scenes from the beloved 1983 film were brought to life.
Explore the restored 1940s home, pose with the iconic leg lamp and visit the museum next door filled with movie props, costumes and behind-the-scenes stories.
36. Walk Across the Cincinnati Roebling Suspension Bridge
The Roebling Suspension Bridge, a stunning architectural marvel connecting Cincinnati to Northern Kentucky, offers breathtaking views of the Ohio River and downtown skyline.
Take a stroll across the pedestrian walkway, soak up the history of this 1867 masterpiece and snap some photos of the bridge that inspired the Brooklyn Bridge.
37. See the Murals of Portsmouth Floodwall
The Portsmouth Floodwall Murals stretch for over 2,000 feet, transforming the riverfront into a colorful outdoor art gallery that tells the city’s rich history.
Each mural depicts key moments, from Native American heritage to early industry, making it a must-see.
38. See the Longaberger Basket Building in Newark
The Longaberger Basket Building in Newark is a unique, seven-story structure shaped like a giant woven basket, originally designed as the company’s headquarters.
Though now repurposed, the building remains a fun roadside attraction and a perfect spot for photos.
39. Stroll the Streets of Yellow Springs
Yellow Springs is an exciting village known for its unusual shops, art galleries and laid-back vibe, making it a favorite destination for artists and free spirits.
Enjoy a coffee at a local café, explore nearby hiking trails in Glen Helen Nature Preserve, and check out one of the town’s lively festivals or street fairs.
40. Spend a Weekend in Granville
Granville, a charming small town with New England-style architecture, is perfect for a relaxing weekend getaway.
Browse unique boutiques, enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard and stay at a cozy bed-and-breakfast, all while soaking up the town’s history and quaint village atmosphere.
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