I've always enjoyed visiting Ohio because you can experience so many different things depending on your mood. I can book a flight to Columbus and have a completely spontaneous last minute weekend getaway discovering a new place.
Sure, there are the cities with great museums and restaurants. But then there is Ohio's Amish Country where I can't help but slow down while sharing the road with horses and bikes. And lesser known towns just waiting to be explored.
I caught a nonstop flight from Austin, TX to Columbus ($249, 2 hours 40 minutes). I adjusted my watch to Eastern Time Zone and picked up a rental car. Each stop brought something new. I found creative energy, deep-rooted history and relaxation. I remember thinking, “There’s a lot more here than I imagined...and I want more time.”
Best Places to Visit in Ohio:
Getting inspired by creativity and lake views in Cleveland
After landing in Columbus, we rented a car and drove just over two hours north to Cleveland. It was summer and I wanted to be on Lake Erie.
From the shores of Lake Erie to the energy downtown, Cleveland felt full of purpose. I remember thinking, "Why didn’t I come here sooner?" It was creative, a little edgy, and totally authentic.
What I Loved Most: I enjoyed exploring the Cleveland Museum of Art (always free to the public). On a previous visit to Columbus, my son and I spent hours learning about the natural world at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. We didn't have time to visit the zoo, but it's on our list for next time.
We ate at Barrio Tacos. There was a scent of smoky grilled meats and fresh cilantro filling the air. I enjoyed a soft flour shell stuffed with spicy chorizo, queso fresco, and pineapple salsa. The side of guacamole was rich, zesty.
One of the highlights for me was exploring Cleveland parks (Free). The city makes it easy to get outside and stay active.
In the evening we headed to Marble Room. I had the filet mignon, charred on the outside, buttery and tender inside, resting beside garlic mashed potatoes that came steaming, rich, and whipped impossibly smooth.
I checked us into a room with a view of the city at Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade ($184) for the night.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Columbus: ~2 hours north
- Vibe: Artistic, proud, reinvented
- Highlights: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Lake Erie, West Side Market
- Best Time to Visit: Summer or early fall for lake breezes and events
- Cost: Free museum admission; budget for food and parking
- Hours: Most museums open 10am–5pm; lakefront parks open daily
Rediscovering river charm and street art in Cincinnati
Next day we took a train from Cleveland to Cincinnati ($110). It was a great way to admire the scenery without having to worry about driving.
We took our son to the zoo. The Admission + Rides Package ($18 - $34) gave us unlimited rides on the train and carousel for the day which added to the fun.
Afterwards, we picked up a snack at Findlay Market and enjoyed walking around on a warm sunny day.
We spent the afternoon at Cincinnati Museum Center which is home to the Cincinnati History Museum ($24.25 for adults, $17 for kids), Museum of Natural History & Science, and the Duke Energy Children's Museum. We only had time to the Cincinnati History Museum on this trip, so we came back months later.
We stepped inside the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and I felt the quiet weight of history settle over me. Sunlight streamed through tall glass windows, catching on exhibits that told stories of courage and flight. I thought, “This building holds both grief and hope in its walls.”
What I Loved Most: Crossing the Roebling Suspension Bridge (free). Afterwards, I had a local beer in Over-the-Rhine, where historic architecture meets indie creativity.
On another trip, I ate at Maplewood Kitchen and Bar, where the California vibes meet Midwest comfort. I had the Citrus Crunch Salad and a side of truffle fries. Bright, modern, and delicious.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Columbus: ~1.5 hours southwest
- Vibe: Historic, artsy, welcoming
- Highlights: Findlay Market, Cincinnati Art Museum, Smale Riverfront Park
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for patios, festivals, and river views
- Cost: Low to moderate; free parks, affordable dining
- Hours: Attractions vary; most open by 10am
Soaking up energy and ideas in Columbus
We finished our mini road trip in Columbus where we spent our last night before flying home. Columbus is a great starting point for many day trips. Whenever we visit, we are already planning our next itinerary which usually starts in this wonderful city.
From the buzz on High Street to the calm in the Scioto Mile parks, there was a rhythm to the city that stuck with me. I remember thinking, "This place has momentum, and I kind of want to ride it."
What I Loved Most: I enjoyed exploring the Short North Arts District with its colorful murals and funky boutiques. I also enjoyed catching my breath on the peaceful trails at Franklin Park Conservatory ($24 admission).
My highlights? Dinner was at Brassica, where Mediterranean flavors shine. I had the falafel bowl with pickled vegetables, hummus, and warm pita. The flavors were vibrant, the space was cool and casual.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Cleveland: ~2 hours south
- Vibe: Youthful, forward-thinking, creative
- Highlights: Ohio State University, art galleries, riverfront parks
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or early fall for pleasant walks and events
- Cost: Moderate; affordable eats and free public spaces
- Hours: Parks and shops generally open 9am–5pm
Finding glass, gardens, and quiet beauty in Toledo
Toledo moved at its own pace, and that’s what I loved about it. From the peaceful riverfront to great art, the city offered stillness and creativity all at once.
I admired how the riverfront is slowly being reimagined with trails and parks, even as industry still rumbles nearby.
What I Loved Most: The quiet halls of the Toledo Museum of Art (free admission), especially the Glass Pavilion. I watched as the sunlight played through shimmering sculptures and time seemed to slow.
Where I ate I bought lunch (a salad with warm pita) from a Grumpy’s food truck on the go.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Columbus: ~2.5 hours northwest
- Vibe: Understated, artsy, peaceful
- Highlights: Toledo Museum of Art, Metroparks, Maumee River
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for walks and museum visits
- Cost: Low—many attractions are free
- Hours: Museums open around 10am; parks open dawn to dusk
Exploring aviation roots and local pride in Dayton
Dayton felt proud of its story, and it welcomed me into it with open arms. Walking through aviation history and chatting with locals at the markets was a wonderful experience.
What I Loved Most: Touring the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force (free), where rows of planes told decades of history in a space that felt as inspiring as it was humbling. The museum celebrated its 100th anniversary!
My highlights? A cozy breakfast next day at Butter Café, where everything felt made with love. I had the banana walnut pancakes and a hot mug of locally roasted coffee.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Columbus: ~1.25 hours west
- Vibe: Historic, humble, full of pride
- Highlights: Aviation museum, Carillon Historical Park, Oregon District
- Best Time to Visit: Early fall or spring for milder days
- Cost: Mostly free or low-cost; Air Force Museum is free
- Hours: Museums open 9am–5pm; some attractions vary
Feeling like a kid again in Sandusky
Sandusky was especially fun to visit with my son because of Cedar Point roller coasters. After spending hours of fun on (nearly) every ride, we checked into Hotel Breakers.
We also had a great time strolling downtown with water views. I watched boats glide by and soaking in that lakeside small-town charm, just steps from some of the biggest thrills in the country.
My highlights? An early dinner at Zinc Brasserie, tucked inside a historic building near the bay. I had the pan-seared walleye with lemon beurre blanc and seasonal veggies.
A downside? Toledo carries its lows in plain sight. Poverty rates remain high. Some streets feel quiet not with peace but with absence.
Travel Tips:
- Drive Time from Cleveland: ~1 hour west
- Vibe: Playful, summery, nostalgic
- Highlights: Cedar Point, Lake Erie islands, waterfront dining
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for parks and lake access
- Cost: Moderate to high; Cedar Point tickets add up
- Hours: Most attractions open late morning to evening
Berlin, Ohio Amish Calm
“The clip-clop of horses slowed my thoughts.” That’s what I kept thinking as I walked along Main Street in Berlin. The rhythm of buggies on pavement mixed with the scent of fresh bread from roadside bakeries. Life moved unhurried here, and I found myself breathing in step with it.
What I Loved Most: Watching quilts flutter on clotheslines across rolling hills. The colors felt like living art against the muted greens of farmland.
My highlights? Dinner at Boyd & Wurthmann. I had a roast turkey plate with buttery mashed potatoes, rich gravy, and warm homemade rolls that smelled of yeast and comfort. For dessert, a slice of peanut butter cream pie, light and sweet with a nutty finish. Each bite carried the warmth of a kitchen made for gathering.
A downside? On weekends, the streets felt crowded with tour buses and lines stretched out of the bakeries. I longed for the quiet I had glimpsed in the fields.
Plan your Berlin Amish day trip:
- Drive Time from Columbus: ~2 hours northeast
- Vibe: Simple, pastoral, family-centered
- Highlights: Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center, Heini’s Cheese Chalet, quilt shops, local bakeries
- Best Time to Visit: Weekdays in spring or fall for fewer crowds
- Cost: Exploring free; meals and shops vary
- Hours: Most shops 9am–5pm; closed Sundays
Grand Rapids, Ohio Riverside Stroll
If you are in the mood for small town vibes, Grand Rapids is a hidden gem that make a great side trip from Toledo (just 30 minutes by car).
The Maumee River sparkled in the afternoon sun as I crossed the bridge into town. “This place feels like it was built for wandering,” I thought, the water steady on one side and a row of historic brick storefronts on the other. The air carried the faint scent of woodsmoke and fresh bread.
What I Loved Most: Walking along the towpath of the old Miami and Erie Canal. The shaded trail wound past remnants of locks, history tucked into every stone, while dragonflies hovered above the water.
My highlights? Lunch at LaRoe’s, a spot tucked into a restored 19th-century building. I ordered a perch sandwich. It was crispy, golden fillets with a squeeze of lemon. The plate smelled of fried cornmeal and lake breeze, and each bite tasted like summer on the river. Later, I wandered into small shops selling antiques and handmade goods, each doorway opening to another story.
A downside? Parking filled quickly on Saturday afternoon, and I circled longer than I wanted before settling into the rhythm of the town.
Plan your Grand Rapids day trip:
- Drive Time from Toledo: ~30 minutes southwest
- Vibe: Historic, riverside, small-town charm
- Highlights: Miami & Erie Canal towpath, Grand Rapids Dam, boutique shops, seasonal festivals
- Best Time to Visit: Late summer and fall for river views and crisp weather
- Cost: Free to stroll; meals and shops vary
- Hours: Shops typically 10am–5pm; towpath open daily
Conclusion & Why I always come back
Every city gave me something different: inspiration, peace, excitement, or a new flavor I’m still thinking about.
That’s what I love most about traveling through Ohio. The state is approachable, and full of wonder. Whether you’re road tripping with friends or sneaking off for a quiet weekend, you’ll find a corner of this state that speaks to exactly what you need.
Jump to a Spot...
- • Getting inspired by creativity and lake views in Cleveland
- • Rediscovering river charm and street art in Cincinnati
- • Soaking up energy and ideas in Columbus
- • Finding glass, gardens, and quiet beauty in Toledo
- • Exploring aviation roots and local pride in Dayton
- • Feeling like a kid again in Sandusky
- • Lake Erie at dawn from East Harbor State Park. Rock jetty protecting a beach in Ohio near Sandusky.
- • Berlin, Ohio Amish Calm
- • Amish horse and buggy in the late morning sunrise traveling over a bridge in the countryside of Holmes County
- • Grand Rapids, Ohio Riverside Stroll
- • Conclusion & Why I always come back
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