Quick Summary: Ohio is dubbed the Buckeye state because of the Ohio buckeye trees that grow in abundance there. It is also a haven for families with kids with its array of world renowned museums, zoos, national parks, nature centers, gardens, and aquariums. Of course, a vacation with the kids must include a trip to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. And fans of baseball will undoubtedly want to visit the popular Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum. Whether it’s indoors or outdoors, Ohio’s options for good times with kids are limitless. Here are 25 of the best things to do with kids in Ohio.


  • Updated with new information since originally published.
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  • Our editors recommend these diverse local experiences.

Olentangy Indian Caverns, Ohio

© Olentangy Indian Caverns

The Children’s Museum of Cleveland

© The Children’s Museum of Cleveland

Aullwood Audubon Center

© Aullwood Audubon Center

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

© Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

Center of Science and Industry

© Center of Science and Industry

Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal

© Paul Lemke/stock.adobe.com

Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum

© Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

© stunt/stock.adobe.com

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

© Bridget/stock.adobe.com

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

© Igor/stock.adobe.com

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

© sschremp/stock.adobe.com

Great Lakes Science Center

© Great Lakes Science Center

Greater Cleveland Aquarium

© Drozd Dmitriy/stock.adobe.com

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

© Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

Merry Go Round Museum

© Pix by Marti/stock.adobe.com

National Museum of the US Air Force

© National Museum of the US Air Force

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

© National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

Nature Center at Shaker Lakes

© Nature Center at Shaker Lakes

Ohio Bird Sanctuary

© Ohio Bird Sanctuary

Ohio Caverns

© Ohio Caverns

Piatt Castles

© Piatt Castles

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

© Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

Slate Run Living Historical Farm

© MNStudio/stock.adobe.com

SunWatch Indian Village Archaeological Park

© SunWatch Indian Village Archaeological Park

The Bicycle Museum of America

© The Bicycle Museum of America

More family-friendly events and activities

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