Family Getaways in Ohio: Hiking, Swimming, Museums & More!

Ohio is a great destination for family travel, and many families enjoy hiking and swimming amidst the natural scenery, visiting local museums, and discovering all that the state has to offer. There are also amazing local cuisine and social attractions in the area. 

Ohio has something for everyone, and there are plenty of great opportunities for family getaways like visiting the Buckeye State, walking through the beaches of Lake Erie, and hiking through the Appalachian foothills.

Whether you’re looking for a weekend away or a weeklong adventure, Ohio has plenty of options to choose from. From amusement parks to natural wonders, to historical sites and family-friendly attractions, Ohio is an ideal destination for family fun.

If you’re looking for something to entertain and educate every member of the family, there’s plenty of museums and zoos to visit.

In this article, I’ll share some of the best family getaways in Ohio, so you can plan your next vacation and make lasting memories with your loved ones.

Download our FREE printable packing list and shopping list to prepare for your next family trip! Take inventory of what you already have, and make a separate list for things you’ll be needing on your next trip to the market.

Plan your next family Ohio getaway!

Planning your Next Family Getaway in Ohio

Family getaways provide an opportunity for families to reconnect and spend quality time together. Whether it’s a weekend away or a full vacation, taking a break from the everyday routine can be beneficial for everyone.

Family getaways can provide a chance for parents to relax and enjoy some much needed rest, while kids can step away from the stresses of school and explore something new.

Overview of Ohio

Ohio is a state located in the midwestern United States. It’s known for its diverse landscape, with beautiful lakes, rolling hills, and lush forests. It’s also home to several major cities, including Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Columbus. With its unique and varied attractions, Ohio is an ideal destination for a family getaway.

Family Getaways in Ohio

Depending on your destination, Ohio will have plenty of activities to partake in with your family. The best family getaways in Ohio, are on this list below:

Cincinnati, Ohio - View of the Skyline from the River at Dusk
Cincinnati, Ohio – View of the Skyline from the River at Dusk (Photo by Getty Images)

Cincinnati

Cincinnati is the largest city in Ohio and the third largest metropolitan area in the Midwest. Families can explore the city’s vibrant art and entertainment scene, including the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, and the Cincinnati Museum Center. There’s also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as the Cincinnati Art Museum and the Cincinnati Nature Center.

Cleveland, Ohio Skyline from the Cuyahoga River (Photo by Getty Images)
Cleveland, Ohio Skyline from the Cuyahoga River (Photo by Getty Images)

Cleveland

Cleveland is a city located on the south shore of Lake Erie. Its vibrant downtown area is home to a variety of attractions, such as the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Great Lakes Science Center. Families can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as biking and kayaking on the Cuyahoga River or exploring the Cleveland Metroparks.

Downtown Columbus, Ohio - Skyline
Image of Downtown Columbus, Ohio – Skyline (Photo by DenisTengneyJr)

Columbus

Columbus is the capital and largest city in Ohio. It’s home to a variety of attractions, including the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and the Center of Science and Industry. Families can also explore the city’s outdoor attractions, such as the Scioto Mile, the Olentangy Bike Trail, and the Columbus Metro Parks.

Outdoor Activities

Hocking Hills hiking trail frozen over during the winter. Family getaways in Ohio.
Hocking Hills, Ohio in the Winter (Photo by Getty Images)

Hiking

Ohio has plenty of hiking trails for families to explore. The state is home to several national parks, including Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Shawnee State Park, and Hocking Hills State Park. These parks offer a variety of trails suited for beginners, as well as more experienced hikers.

Swimming

Ohio’s many lakes and rivers provide plenty of opportunities for swimming. Families can cool off in the waters of Lake Erie, or explore the rivers of the Hocking Hills State Park. There are also several public swimming pools located throughout the state.

Fishing on the Maumee River (Photo from Pixabay)

Fishing

Families can spend a day fishing in Ohio’s rivers and lakes. The state is home to a variety of fish, including bass, panfish, and catfish. Fishing licenses are required for anyone over the age of 16, and can be purchased at most sporting goods stores.

Family Activities

Cedar Point Amusement Park In Ohio - Destination for Family Getaways in Ohio

Amusement Parks

Ohio is home to several amusement parks, including Cedar Point, Kings Island, and Geauga Lake. These parks offer a variety of rides and attractions, from roller coasters to water slides. Families can also explore the many arcades, shops, and restaurants located throughout the parks.

family visiting the national museum of united states airforce during a family getaway to ohio
Family visit to the National Museum of the US Air Force in Dayton, OH

Museums

Ohio has a variety of museums for families to explore. The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for its collection of European and American art, while the Cincinnati Art Museum houses an impressive collection of Chinese and Japanese art. Families can also explore the Springfield Museum of Art and the Dayton Art Institute.

family getaways in ohio - sign for the cincinnati zoo
Entrance to Cincinnati Zoo (Photo by Paul Everett | Used under Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) )

Zoos

Ohio is home to several zoos, including the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Families can explore these zoos and get up close and personal with a variety of animals, from tigers to elephants.

Video on Family Getaways in Ohio

Ohio is an ideal destination for a family getaway. Its diverse landscape and attractions provide something for everyone. Families can explore the state’s cities, enjoy outdoor activities, or visit the many amusement parks, museums, and zoos. With its variety of attractions, Ohio is sure to provide an unforgettable vacation for all.

Josie Pena
Josie Pena

Josie is a mother of two girls (3 years and 5 years old). She's a SAHM that works remotely on various internet projects. She spends her free time exploring local parks, learning new things, and recording content for her YouTube channels. You can find her blogging over at https://inspiredtoblog.com.

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