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Savvy Travel Advice

The Wilds Animal Park: An African Safari Experience in Ohio

Last updated: December 4, 2021 - Written by Jessica Norah 22 Comments

The Wilds is one of the largest conservation centers in North America, set on about 10,000 acres of land in Southeast Ohio. The Wilds safari park is home to a number of rare and endangered animals from around the world, including cheetah, rhinos, camels, antelope, zebra, and giraffes, as well as a number of local native species.

Visitors can not only do regular bus safaris to see the animals, but The Wilds in Ohio also offers horseback safaris, fishing safaris, ziplining, a butterfly habitat, education programs, summer camps, and overnight lodging. This non-profit open-habitat safari park is a pretty amazing place given that this is reclaimed land which was strip mined for coal from the 1940’s to the 1980’s, which destroyed most of the natural wildlife and resources in this area.

If you are in Ohio, this is definitely a place to consider adding to your itinerary. We’ll give you all the information you need to plan a trip here and tell you about our own experience visiting The Wilds animal park.

Table of Contents:

Basic Information for Visiting The Wilds in Ohio

Here is all the info you need to start planning your trip to The Wilds in Ohio.

What is the Address of The Wilds?

14000 International Road, Cumberland, Ohio 43732

How to Get to The Wilds Ohio?

The Wilds is located outside the small town of Cumberland, Ohio and the best way to get here is by car. I could not find any public transportation options but you could of course book a taxi or Uber if needed.

It is approximately 75 miles (1.5 to 2 hour drive) from Columbus, OH, 20 miles (35 minute drive) from Zanesville, OH, and 140 miles (2.5 hours) from Cleveland, Ohio. You can find   directions online provided by The Wilds depending on your location. Note that there is a $6.00 parking fee to park at The Wilds unless you are a member.

When is the Best Time to Visit The Wilds?

The best time to visit The Wilds for most activities is from May through September. The Wilds is typically open for its regular visitor season daily from 10am to 4pm May through September and then weekends only in October.

Recently, The Wilds has also started the Winter at the Wilds Tour that allows for pre-registered guests to visit and tour The Wilds from November to March. While many of the regular tours are not available during the winter, the Winter at The Wilds tour is run twice a day. These are more intimate tours with up to 6 people.

What Safari Tours are Offered at The Wilds?

The most popular activities not surprisingly are the Wilds safari tours, and most people take one of the group safari tours that are led by knowledgeable guides. The main tours are given in an open-air bus with a canopy, and there are a couple of places the bus stops where you do a bit of walking.

Tours last approximately 2 hours, but I would allot at least 3 hours for your visit as you’ll need to get the shuttle to and from the parking area, may want to visit the butterfly habitat or other exhibits, and there are also places to shop and eat. 

If you interested in a more intimate experience, you can reserve a Wildside Tour and get a more exclusive safari experience with an Animal Management specialist amongst a smaller group (these are typically offered in an open-air pickup truck) and you get to see some of the daily happenings at The Wilds such as an animal medical procedure, help in feeding the animals, or an ongoing conservation project.

All of the tours at The Wilds take you through all the open-range enclosures where you’ll get to see many of the animals roaming in the fields as well as stops at Lake Trail and the Carnivore Center. You also have access to the Butterfly Habitat which you can explore at your leisure before or after the safari tours. On the weekends during the summer months, these tours are also offered at sunset and include a buffet dinner at the Overlook Café.

Check out The Wilds website for current tours and tour prices , with the open-air bus tours (May through October) currently set (as of October 2021) at $35.00 per person. Wildside Tours (and Winter at the Wilds tours) are currently priced at $137.50 per person for non-members.

Note that all tours must be booked online in advance prior to visiting.

Other Activities at The Wilds?

In addition to the main animal safari tours, there are a number of other visitor activities offered at The Wilds. You can easily spend a full day or a full weekend at the Wilds. These include fishing, horseback riding, sunset tours, and ziplining. The Wild Zipline Safari provides the opportunity to view parts of the large preserve and some of the wildlife from above across 10 different ziplines (a shorter version that includes only five ziplines is also available).

For those who live nearby or have more time for a visit, the Wilds also offers educational programs, WildeCamps, and Family Camp weekends during the summer months. They can also accommodate a wide range of events from corporate retreats to weddings to birthday parties.

The Wilds has also been recognized one of Ohio’s Most Important Birding Areas by Audubon. It is a good place to see a number of birds, including raptors, grassland nesting birds, and ospreys. The Wilds has made a birding station located at Jeffrey Point accessible to the public and it is open 24/7 for no charge. 

Accessibility at The Wilds

The visitor areas at The Wilds are generally accessible for those with reduced physical mobility and those in wheelchairs and meet ADA guidelines. There are tour buses and shuttles that can accommodate those in a wheelchair, and you can denote that you need a wheelchair space when you book your ticket.

Most of the tour is spent inside the bus but there are stops where participants can disembark to see the parakeet aviary (a short distance) and the carnivores’ enclosures (a slightly longer distance). 

As with most places, it is wise to call in advance to discuss any special accessibility needs before booking.

What Dining Options are there at the Wilds?

Food and snacks are available for purchase at the Safari Snack Depot, Terrace Grill, and Overlook Café. Note that many of these close during the winter months. Food available includes hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, chicken, ice cream, snacks, soda, coffee, and beer and wine. Evening safari programs during the summer often include a buffet dinner at the Overlook Café.

Can you Stay Overnight at The Wilds?

You can stay within The Wilds parkland or you can stay in a nearby town. The Wilds as you might imagine are in a very rural location but there are towns with lodging within 20 miles of the park.

Staying Overnight in The Wilds park

You have a few options if you want to stay overnight at The Wilds, including staying in a luxury yurt or a large family-friendly cabin.

The yurts are currently adults-only (21+) and are located within the park at Nomad Ridge and are built on large platforms with screen windows, bamboo floors, wooden doors, a private bathroom, and an observation deck for private wildlife viewing.

There are also several cabins that have been recently built around Straker Lake within The Wilds which provides another option. These can accommodate up to 6 persons and are perfect for families or small groups.

If you are coming with a big group or family, you might also consider The Lodge which is a large 6-bedroom cabin complete with a fully-equipped kitchen, bathrooms, television, Internet, washer and dryer, gas fireplace, outdoor fire ring, games, books, canoes, and fishing and boating equipment.

If you book a reservation in one of the yurts or The Lodge, you’ll receive discount pricing on many of the tours and activities offered at The Wilds. We did not stay in any of these lodging options, but we did see them while we were there and both options looked quite nice.  

NOTE: No pets are allowed on The Wilds property, including in any of the lodging, for obvious reasons. They may also not be left in your vehicle, so please be sure to leave your dogs at home. Service animals are of course welcome.

Staying Outside The Wilds

If you are looking for nearby lodging outside the park , you can find a range of options in the nearby cities of Caldwell, Cambridge, Zanesville, and Marietta. The closest lodging is in the town of Caldwell which has several motels and hotels. Some recommended properties are as follows:

• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham , Caldwell – a 2* well-reviewed good value hotel offering en-suite rooms with inclusive continental breakfast. Offers wheelchair-accessible rooms. Free on-site parking. About a 25 minute drive from The Wilds.
• Best Western Caldwell Inn – This hotel offers a 24 hour front desk, indoor swimming pool, free Wifi, fitness center, and free breakfast. Note that the included breakfast is often served at the nearby family-owned diner (walking distance) Lori’s Restaurant. Offers wheelchair-accessible rooms. A 25 minute drive from The Wilds.
• Baymont by Wyndham , Cambridge – a 2* hotel offering en-suite rooms which also feature a microwave and free on-site parking. Breakfast is included. Just over 30 minutes drive to The Wilds.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel and Suites , Zanesville – found in downtown Zanesville, this 2* hotel offers rooms with coffee makers and refrigerators. Free parking is available, breakfast is included, and there’s an indoor hot tub. Offers wheelchair accessible rooms. Around 30 minutes drive from The Wilds.
• Comfort Suites , Marietta – conveniently located for the Interstate, this 3* hotel has an indoor heated pool and a fitness centre. Offers wheelchair-accessible rooms. It’s also pet friendly (fee applies). Free parking is available nearby, and rooms have microwaves and fridges. Around a 50 minute drive from The Wilds.

You can see more options and compare prices here . 

Need More Information to Plan Your Trip to The Wilds? 

The official  official website  for The Wilds is a very useful to find information or book tickets, but you can also call them at 740-638-5030 or check out their active Facebook page where you can see recent photos as well as potentially find a discount code or win a free visit.

If you want to explore the area around The Wilds more fully you check out other things to do nearby  around Zanesville, Ohio and wider tourism information for the state of Ohio . 

Our Experience Visiting The Wilds 

I grew up near The Wilds and it is by far the largest tourist attraction in our local area, but for some reason or another I had never visited while I was growing up. During college, I knew several people who did research practicums and internships here given the amazing educational and research opportunities that are available here to local students.

In fact, I went to the same college as Jack Hanna , a famous zookeeper and animal expert who has worked with and promote The Wilds. I guess it is one of those things where you look back and realize that you never visited many of the cool places in your own backyard after you have left.

So on a return visit to Ohio to see my family in winter 2014, I made sure that I had time to include a visit to The Wilds. It was definitely time I finally made it here!  After that winter 2014 visit, I returned again in the summer of 2017 to experience one of the open-air tours that was not offered when I visited in the winter in 2014. So I’ll break this down by The Wilds winter visit first and then a bit about the summer open-air safari experience.

Winter at The Wilds Tour Experience

I made a reservation in advance for the Winter at the Wilds tour which is the only tour that is regularly given during the winter months. Ethan and I visited in November 2014 and it was a cold day and so we were bundled up in coats, hats, and gloves for our visit. We arrived at the parking lot (there is a $6.00 parking fee) and we were met within a couple of minutes by someone from the park management team and then our guide who was a member of the animal management team.

The Winter at the Wilds tour is similar to the regular Wildside Tours given during the rest of the year. However, instead of an open-air vehicle, we were in an enclosed heated vehicle, but we were able to roll down the windows as needed to take photos so that was not a problem and we needed the heat! While you cannot get out of the car within the open animal enclosures, you’ll get to walk around in other areas  such as around the Carnivores Center and if you visit the barns during the winter. 

A Bit of Ecology & Conservation at the Wilds

Our first stop was actually not to see wildlife but to see a restoration project being conducted by the Wilds Restoration Ecology department. Friendly Rachael and Kelsey who were hard at work in the wetlands area, talked to us about conservation within the wetlands and they showed us a neat water system they use to monitor and maintain water in the wetlands area.

This is a good reminder that a visit to the Wilds does not just have to be about the animals, but there is almost 10,000 acres of land here and all kinds of ecosystems. Strip mining negatively impacted much of the land and streams in this area and it is amazing to see the revival that has come about because of the hard work by the folks at the Wilds. If you are interested in ecology, botany, water management, birding, insects, etc. let your guide know as there are many different types of environmental projects happening here at any given time!

The Big Cats and Dogs

The next major stop on the tour was to the Wilds’ Carnivore Center. Here you can get out of the car and walk around and see the animals from various viewing points. During our visit, there were painted dogs, dholes, and cheetahs.

Be careful to stay back if you get near the African painted dog enclosures as they are not friendly puppies! I had never seen a dhole before but I remember my friend in college talking about these while she worked at the Wilds. They are super cute canines that are native to Asia and look quite a bit like a fox.

Breeding programs and research at the Wilds is geared towards helping the survival and conservation of these threatened and endangered species. The Wilds has been successful with its cheetah program as the first cheetah cubs were born here in 2010!

The Open Range Animal Pastures

The rest of our visit focused on driving through the open range enclosures, which contain the vast majority of the animals at the Wilds. These include camels, bison, zebra, Southern white rhino, wild horses, ostrich, giraffes, and various types of deer and antelope. You are also likely to see some of the native species that roam around the Wilds such as local deer, birds, or coyote.

If there are certain animals that you are very interested in seeing or want to learn more about, just tell your guide so they can better allocate your time as there is a lot of open space. As animal management specialists who work with the animals, they can help give you the best chance to see the animals you want to see and also give you more time with them if they can. 

During any tour, since the animals live in large open enclosures you’re likely to see many of the species up close while others are likely to be hidden a bit in the trees or near the lake where you might not get an up close view. For instance, we only got distant views of the ostriches who preferred to hide themselves amongst some trees on the opposite end of the lake from us.

We got a good look at most of the animals and we were able to get within touching distance (no touching!) of several animals who largely ignored our vehicle. The Sichuan takin are interesting animals that I have never seen before and there were a lot of these critters along with a number of deer, horses, and antelopes. Some of the deer were losing their antlers or were in the process of doing so which occurs in the winter months. The type of camels at the Wilds are quite funny to watch as they are very curious and will get very close to the vehicle. When they walk, their two humps of fat flop around quite a bit on the older camels. 

Typically, visitors would have the opportunity to tour some of the winter facilities for the animals on a Winter at the Wilds tour to see animals that need to be kept inside on cold days such as the giraffes. But a white rhino baby had just been born a day or so before our visit and so we were unfortunately not able to visit the barns. The animal management team did not want anyone disturbing the new rhino calf and there had not been a press release yet about the new baby. Although this sadly meant we could not visit the animals that were in the winter housing and barns that day (rhinos, zebra, giraffes), it is a remarkable event as the calf was the first fifth generation white rhino born outside of Africa and is a testament to the breeding and conservation program at the Wilds.

Summer at the Wilds Open Air Safari Tour Experience

In the summer of 2017, I returned again to the Wilds with my husband Laurence. This time we did an open-air animal safari tour. These are the most common type of tour that people take on a visit to the Wilds and are typically available from May to September. The tour took two hours and was in an open-air bus.

It was definitely a different experience to visit on a hot summer day, and it was nice to not be all bundled up in a winter coat and gear. It was also nice to see the green grass, full trees, and local wildflowers.

In terms of the animal, we saw many of the same animals I had seen in 2014; however, we also got to see a few animals I had not been able to see on my winter visit such as the parakeets in the small aviary, the giraffes, the white rhinos (although at a distance), and the ostriches. We also got to see the tankins really up close as they were fighting, playing, and mating near our vehicle!

Overall Thoughts on Visiting the Wilds in Ohio

Overall, we had a fun time on both our safari tours at the Wilds. We learned a lot, saw lots of animals, and received a warm welcome from our knowledgeable guides and other staff. A great advantage to visiting in November was that we had the park to ourselves since there are relatively few visitors during the winter months. The only disappointment during that visit was not being able to see the giraffes or rhino, but we totally understood that the health of the newborn rhino calf took precedence over our visiting the animal barns!

During the summer tour, it was nice to see the Wilds all green and alive. It was also nice to see some of the animals like the giraffes and rhinos that I had missed on the previous winter tour. The open-air safari bus makes for a nice way to experience the park and see the animals, and reminded my a bit of my safari experience in Africa. Another good thing about the summer is that there are more food facilities open so you have more opportunities to get a snack or have a meal.

 Overall, I would definitely recommend a trip to the Wilds if you find yourself in this part of Ohio. Not only is it a great place to view wildlife, but the organization is a top-notch research and conservation facility committed to a number of good causes. For me, this was a great chance to visit a cool place that I had missed growing up in this area! 

Are there places near where you have lived that you never took time to visit and then regretted it once you left? Planning your own trip to the Wilds and have a question? As always, feel free to ask us questions about our visit to the Wilds in Ohio or share your own experiences in the Comments section below!

**Disclosure: Just so you know, we received complimentary tours at the Wilds as press. However, as always, this article contains only our own honest thoughts and opinions. You can read more in our  Ethics Code  about how we work.**

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There are 22 comments on this post.

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Emma Post author

June 10, 2023 at 7:01 am

Hello All. It is now 2023 and I am just now becoming aware that this place even exist, hopefully it still does. I am very interested in visiting there. Is the reservation still operating? I imagine Covid played an enormous role in why it seems the comments went silent. Also is the climate uninhabited by primates? I absolutely love the great Silverbacks and the chimps. Is this climate not suitable for them? Do you plan on ever having them?

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

June 14, 2023 at 7:50 am

Yes, The Wilds is alive and well, and you can certainly come and visit. COVID-19 certainly was not great for the park but all is now open and most of the services have returned to normal. The summer season tends to be the busiest and most popular time to visit as it is a nice time to do the open-top buses or the Wildside Jeep or truck rides.

I don’t personally work for The Wilds, I am just a travel writer but I did grow up near The Wilds and have visited several times now over the years.

So there are no primates such as chimpanzees or gorillas at The Wilds. The focus of The Wilds is mainly on conservation and research and most of the animals are ones that can live in open enclosures, basically fields, such as the rhinos, horses, camels, zebra, giraffes, ostrich, etc. Primates would require large enclosures/tress etc. and it would probably not be a great fit for them here. At The Wilds, they do have a couple of enclosures for predators (e.g., painted dogs, dholes, and cheetah), but most of the rest of the animals can roam fairly freely in the open fields. There is also a barn area to keep animals protected and warm in the winter as needed.

In terms of climate, I would say that Ohio is probably not a good fit in terms of the natural habitat for chimps or gorillas. We recently were in Uganda which has both mountain gorillas and chimps and the reclaimed coal fields in southeastern Ohio is a pretty different climate and habitat than most of the places you would naturally find these animals.

As far as I know, there are no plans to have primates but you can of course ask yourself if you visit for any plans and reasoning on their part! The Columbus Zoo, the sister organization to The Wilds, has several primates in its care, although I don’t believe they have any chimps.

Hope that helps and hope you are able to enjoy a visit to The Wilds soon!

Best, Jessica

Becky Malterer Post author

March 30, 2023 at 8:31 am

Have the animals ever attacked anyone?

March 30, 2023 at 9:36 am

As far as I know (I don’t work here), there have not been any serious injuries of visitors caused by an attack by an animal at The Wilds.

When you visit, you are in a bus or Jeep for most of the visit when in the areas where the animals live and roam. The carnivores are behind fences. So visitors are fairly well protected from the animals and most of the animals (e.g., giraffe, cattle, zebra, ostrich) here rarely attack humans anyway. However, they are still wild animals and of course visitors should always be careful and aware during their visit and follow all the staff instructions.

Hope that helps and hope you enjoy your time at The Wilds if you decide to visit!

Jack Alloway Post author

July 15, 2021 at 4:32 pm

I was down in about 10 or 12 years ago and it was a beautiful place and it sounds like you people have done a lot more with it I’m looking forward to coming back down and staying the weekend. Thank yo

July 16, 2021 at 4:01 am

Hope you get a chance to return to The Wilds. Yes, it has changed quite a bit from 12 years ago!

tom hamm Post author

February 29, 2020 at 3:37 pm

look like a great place to visit. Would like to make a trip there in the spring or summer of 2020.

March 1, 2020 at 4:31 am

Yes, Spring or early Summer is a great time to visit The Wilds. It is nice to go when it is warm out but not super hot.

Enjoy! Jessica

Kurstin Chandler Post author

January 6, 2020 at 1:47 pm

Hi, interested in visiting your place.

January 6, 2020 at 1:58 pm

Hi Kurstin, If you are interested in visiting The Wilds now, or between November and April, they are only open to the public for their Winter at the Wilds tours. These need to be booked at least 72 hours in advance of when you want to visit. So I’d go onto their website or give them a call to schedule one of those if of interest. You can find links and their phone number above in the post.

But if you are visiting in the Spring/Summer months, then there are more daily tour options that will be available and you don’t have to book in advance (although still a good idea if you know when you want to do the tour).

Terri Mitchell Post author

April 13, 2019 at 6:56 am

Thank you for your comprehensive review! Just caught the end of Jack Hanna’s wildlife safari insisting The Wilds. I found your site when I searched for info. Happily it sounds like this is a trip that all ages can enjoy and we can camp too! Thanks to your thorough review we’re planning our own visit to The Wilds this summer!!! Happy Travels

April 13, 2019 at 12:10 pm

Hi Terri, Glad you enjoyed our review of The Wilds, and do let us know if you have any questions about planning your trip to The Wilds. Yes, Jack Hanna was very much involved in the planning and conservation efforts at The Wilds (he is a former director of the zoo in Columbus Ohio) and has been a long time ambassador for the park 😉 Best, Jessica

Mark Staib Post author

March 28, 2019 at 2:50 pm

I have a scout troop ,and we are interested coming down and camping either there or near by. We will want to tour and zip line. We would be arriving July 21 and have all of the 22nd to do all of the above.Please let me know if this is do able and how much it would cost.

March 28, 2019 at 4:42 pm

Hi Mark, That sounds like a fun scout trip. You’ll need to call The Wilds directly to get pricing and to book the trip for your group, phone number is (740) 638-5030. Best of luck, Jessica

DONNA AZZ Post author

July 4, 2016 at 3:37 pm

Hi – we will be visit “the wilds” in two weeks and staying for 2 nights (July 19&20). Are there any suggestions you can give us to enhance our visit?

travelcats Post author

July 4, 2016 at 4:32 pm

Hi Donna, I am sure you will have a great time at The Wilds! The summer is a great time to visit as all the facilities will be open and the animals should be out and about.

I would reserve your tour in advance so you get the dates/times you want. The open-air safari tours are great in the summer and a good value, you can also consider a private encounter or a Wildside Tour if they are within your budget.

As many animals will seek shade and naps in the middle of a summer day, I’d recommend trying to be on the first tour of the day or the last as you may see more animals and also it may be less crowded.

Since you’ll be there for two nights, you have plenty of opportunity to see the full park and choose the time of your tour and also explore at a slow pace. If you are staying overnight in the park, be sure to ask what activities are going on during your stay. Often there are boating, fishing, swimming, ziplining, and horseback riding activities available.

If you are traveling with kids, it can be really fun to teach them about some of the animals and have them try to then spot them during your tour and from the observation deck of where you are staying. If you have a pair of binoculars, these can be fun to bring. I’d also recommend buying a few snacks/drinks to bring with you at a grocery store before getting here so you don’t have to rely on always eating at the park as it can add up.

Have a great trip and feel free to come back and comment about your visit to The Wilds!

AwesomelyOZ Post author

August 3, 2015 at 3:36 pm

That’s so awesome! I love the photos of all the animals, esp the camels 🙂 That was a big boy! Looks like a great safari experience 🙂 Thanks for sharing and have a great one Jessica! -Iva

August 14, 2015 at 6:18 pm

Hi Iva, I think that may actually be a big girl:) It was a fun experience, it was not quite Africa but it is as close as you can get in Southeast Ohio and a great place to visit!

Seana Turner Post author

July 25, 2015 at 1:05 pm

You know, this is why I follow bloggers. I’ve been in that part of the country many times and had no idea this even existed. What a fun place! I think I’d rather roam around on a warm day, but I’ll bookmark it for the next time I’m driving though Ohio!

July 26, 2015 at 7:57 pm

Hi Seana, yes the Wilds is a great place to visit the next time you are in Ohio. It is a bit out of the way but a great place to spend an afternoon!

Mar Ward Post author

July 25, 2015 at 6:26 am

When I worked at the Zoo in Alaska, Jack Hanna was a guest speaker at our yearly fundraiser and talked about the Wilds. Ever since I had wanted to visit. Thanks for sharing your experience and some great photos.

July 26, 2015 at 6:57 pm

Hi Mar! Yes, I almost mentioned Jack Hanna in the post. I went to the same college as an undergrad that both he and his wife graduated from and the Wilds is located only about 20 minutes away. He was director of the Columbus Zoo in Ohio for many years and the Wilds now has a close partnership with that zoo. Jack Hanna has visited the Wilds many times and helped promote it. If you are in the Midwest, you should definitely plan a visit as I think it is still the largest wildlife conservation center in North America.

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African Safari Wildlife Park

Admission to African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton ranges from $20 – 35/person.

• When: Open Friday thru Monday from 10am-5pm (last car admitted at 4pm).
• Location: ( Map It ) 267 S Lightner Road in Port Clinton, Ohio
• Phone: 800-521-2660
• Web: Click here

The African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton, Ohio, offers a day of fun, education, and entertainment. It is home to over 400 of the world’s most beautiful and exotic animals. Make sure to bring a camera. View and feed the animals from the comfort of your vehicle. The 100-acre preserve is something you don’t want to miss. Pay-one-price admission includes the drive-thru safari and safari junction walk-thru. Kids won’t want to leave; there is so much to do! Also, enjoy Camel Rides, Animal Shows, and Pig Races.

• Appalachian Ohio
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• Visit Greater Lima
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• Yoder’s Bakery & Furniture

Kids Adventures: Animals

Go on safari at the Wagon Trails Animal Park in Trumbull County, the African Safari Wildlife Park in Port Clinton and more.

June 2017 Issue BY Staff & Contributors | Photo courtesy of African Safari Wildlife Park

Hikes & Night Events  |  Bugs, Blooms & Water  |  History & Farm Life  |  Camps & Classes  |  Animals   African Safari Wildlife Park  From a drive-through safari to camel rides, this Port Clinton attraction caters to aspiring adventurers of all ages.  President and famed outdoorsman Theodore Roosevelt scoured the African landscape during a 1909 safari, searching for specimens to fill the nation’s then-new Smithsonian Natural History Museum. He probably never envisioned a day when his fellow countrymen would take afternoon safaris from the comfort of their air-conditioned cars. But Port Clinton’s African Safari Wildlife Park provides aspiring explorers of all ages an up-close adventure with exotic creatures. 

The drive-through adventure features 30 different species ranging from Scottish highlander cattle and white bison to sika deer and giraffes. “You can’t get this anywhere else ... [experiencing] a giraffe or bison from your vehicle,” says park employee Kendall Stevens.

Those looking for a more traditional zoo experience can enjoy the walk-through safari, featuring animals such as a tortoise and a white alligator. Other activities include kangaroo feeding and camel rides. 

During the summer months, educational programming is offered three times a day, during which naturalists introduce children to some of the park’s residents. “Kids can come up and touch the animals and just learn and ask questions about them,” says Stevens. 

African Safari Wildlife Park owner Holly Hunt says providing youngsters an opportunity to interact with animals leaves a lasting impression.  

“It is easier to learn something when you can see it and touch it rather than in a book or on a computer screen,” she says. “It’s an interactive experience that really resonates with the children.”  Visit website for admission and hours;  267 S. Lightner  Rd., Port Clinton 43452, 419/732-3606,  africansafariwildlifepark.com *** Aullwood Audubon Center and Farm This 200-acre nature preserve near Dayton includes a farm that lets the little ones get a close-up look at heritage turkeys, cows and chickens, while inviting kids to try their hand at milking a full-size replica of a dairy cow. The lessons also happen outside on the property’s trails and in its creeks and pond. “We may start some of our educational programs in the building … [but] there is nothing like taking the kids outside and using the property as a living classroom,” says Alexis Faust, the center’s executive director.  Adults $5, children 3–18 $3; visit website for hours; 1000 Aullwood Rd., Dayton 45414, 937/890-7360, aullwood.org Wagon Trails Animal Park  More than 300 animals roam free on 70 acres at Wagon Trails Animal Park in Trumbull County. Each safari ticket comes with a bucket of food guests can use to feed the animals during stops on the tour. “Once they get on the truck, they are blown away because the animals come up to the truck and you are feeding them,” says co-owner Diane Fleming. During the 45-to-60-minute tour, riders will see a selection of wildlife that includes zebras, ostrich, buffalo and elk. After the tour, guests are welcome to visit the on-site petting zoo featuring a variety of barnyard creatures. There’s also an area where children can spend time grooming small animals. “We bought little animals that kids can go in and interact with,” Fleming says. “We have a little miniature horse and a miniature cow the kids can brush.”  Adults $16.95, children $13.95, 907 Youngstown Kingsville Rd. SE, Vienna 44473, 330/539-4494,  wagontrails.com The Wilds  This expansive, 9,000-acre nature preserve provides kids the thrill of an African safari without ever leaving the state. Daily activities here include open-air tours, horseback riding, zip lining and educational experiences at the on-site nature center. “You can see all kinds of endangered animals through the rolling hills and landscape and, most importantly, learn a lot about conservation,” says Rick Dietz, vice president of The Wilds. WildCamp, a weeklong summer camp for kids ages 8 to 18, provides an inside look at the preserve. “They stay in Mongolian-style yurts and they get to do traditional summer camp activities like canoeing, swimming and hiking,” Dietz says. “But they also get the opportunity to work side by side with our animal-management specialist and our veterinary team.”  Visit website for admission prices and hours as well as summer camp information; 14000 International Rd., Cumberland  43732, 740/648-5030,  thewilds.columbuszoo.org

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Tours at The Wilds

Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

With an experience right for everyone, a tour of The Wilds will leave you feeling exhilarated.  Choose one, or schedule a few! The Wilds is located in beautiful rural southeast Ohio. 

Each experience and tour at The Wilds will be unique. As one of the largest conservation centers in the world at 10,000+ acres, you may see different animals in different locations each time as they roam our pastures and wooded lands. Because of that, we cannot guarantee that guests will see every species that call The Wilds home during your tour...but we CAN guarantee memories that will last a lifetime! 

NEW TOUR FOR 2024: Behind-the-scenes safari

Get a unique look at The Wilds alongside the Animal Care team and learn about their daily routines, animal care, and more in this customized adventure!

DAILY TOURS 

All daily tours must be booked in advance. See each tour option for details. 

GROUP TOURS

Group tours guarantee to excite by providing encounters with rare and endangered species living in natural, open-range habitats spanning over 10,000 acres. Safari guides will educate groups about animals, ecology, and the crucial conservation work happening at The Wilds.

Group Tours are available May 1 through October 31, and you can book your tour now!

ANIMAL ENRICHMENT WORKSHOP

Learn why enrichment is an important part of our animal care plan, and help make goodies for the animals in our care.

YOUTH EDUCATION SAFARI

Customized for kids (and chaperones), this two-hour tour makes stops in several wild places, including our carnivore center. 

GROUP SUNSET SAFARI

See The Wilds while the sun sets over the beautiful horizon! This 2-hour tour is a must for any group. 

PRIVATE SAFARI

A customized 2-hour tour for groups seeking adventure.

Know Before You Go!

Discover our Policies

8 Little Known Places In Ohio Where Animal Lovers Should Go

April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.

More by this Author

It’s no secret that Ohio’s zoos are top-notch. What may be a secret to you, however, are the following 8 little known places in Ohio that will give you an unforgettable encounter with animals. Here are 8 little known places in Ohio that animal lovers should definitely check out:

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Have you been to any of these places before? Share your experiences and photos with us in the comments below!

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Petting Zoos and Animal Farms Your Kids Will Love to Visit in Ohio

By: Author Julie Miller

Posted on Published: April 13, 2021

Kids love animals! At these petting zoos and animal farms in Ohio , kids (and adults) can get up close to the animals, petting them or feeding them until their heart’s content!

These animal farms in Ohio come in all shapes and sizes. You can drive through, walk through or even get right up in the pen with animals! Whatever your level of comfort of proximity with animal tongues and teeth, there’s something on this list for everyone!

In Ohio we have some pretty amazing opportunities to see animals that you wouldn’t expect to see! Sure there are the expected, cows, horses and goats, but we also have exotic animals you’d expect to see on an African Safari! Whether you’re looking for giraffes and zebras or you just want to pet a cute little baby goat, we’ve got it all here in the great state of Ohio! 

Check out this list of petting zoos and animal farms in different parts of the state and plan your next up close encounter!

Petting Zoos and Animal Farms in Northern Ohio

The farm at walnut creek.

• 4147 Co Rd. 114, Sugarcreek, OH 44681

The Farm at Walnut Creek is a fun experience for kids! Take a wagon ride to get up close and feed exotic animal and learn a little bit about the Amish way of life in Sugarcreek, Ohio! 

Not only can you visit a working Amish farm but you can take a wagon ride (or drive) through the grounds to feed kangaroos, zebras, giraffes, elk, deer, pot-bellied pigs, llamas, camels, and many more! 

African Wildlife Safari

• 267 S Lightner Rd., Port Clinton, OH 43452

This drive through safari gives you the chance to get up close to exotic animals we don’t see every day in Ohio. See and feed giraffes, camels, zebras, llamas and more! The African Safari Wildlife Park is a seasonal activity – open spring through fall.

Within the park there is also a walk-through experience included in your ticket price that includes an albino alligator, birds, kangaroo and other animals in a zoo-like exhibit. This area also includes a playground, gift shop, snack shop and the opportunity to take a camel ride!

Lagoon Deer Park

• 1502 Martins Point Rd., Sandusky, Ohio 44870

At Lagoon Deer Park you can hand feed deer and animals from all over the world! There are also 4 ponds for fishing and camping is available on Friday and Saturday nights.

• Related: 7 Lake Erie Vacation Ideas That Are Perfect for Families

Ohio Bird Sanctuary

• 3774 Urweiler Rd., Mansfield, OH 44903

Ohio Bird Sanctuary is home to birds who can no longer live in the wild. You can walk through an outdoor exhibit to see the birds close up. There is also a Song Bird Aviary where visitors can purchase a cup of food and feed the birds! Birds will come up and eat the food right out of the cup in your hand!

The grounds also include a natural play area, trails for hiking and a butterfly garden. Check out this list of things to do in Mansfield before you visit!

Majestic Meadows Alpaca Farm

• 4195 Abbeyville Rd., Medina, OH 44256

Visit this Alpaca farm and boutique 7 days a week. A reservation is required to visit the alpacas. There is a charge to visit the alpacas and animals can be pet and fed with grain for purchase at the boutique!

Lake Metroparks Farmpark

• 8800 Euclid Chardon Rd. (Rt. 6), Kirtland, Ohio 44094

Part of the Lake Metroparks, this is a working farm and educational center in Kirkland, Ohio featuring cows, pigs, sheep, chicken, rabbits, horses, alpacas and goats! Wagon rides are available and there is a plant science center, playground, farm machines and more! There is a daily admission fee to visit.

Hersberger’s Farm and Bakery

• 5452 OH-557, Millersburg, OH 44654

Hersberger’s Farm is home to a petting zoo where kids can pet farm animals. They also offer pony and horse rides! Also on the premises is an Amish bakery featuring baked goods, canned goods, produce and flowers. There is also a farm store with other non-perishable items!

Our Little World Alpacas

• 16800 Cowley Rd., Grafton, OH 44044

Schedule a private farm tour to meet the alpacas up close or visit the farm for special events! 

Malabar Farm State Park

• 4050 Bromfield Rd., Lucas, OH 44843 

Malabar Farm is one of Ohio’s State Parks. The property features a campground, fishing, hiking trails, a visitor Center and buildings that were part of the homestead of author Louis Bromfield.

The working farm can be toured and animals in the barn include pigs, goats, sheep, cows, horses and more! Look for babies in the spring! Malabar Farm is free to visit! 

Wagon Trails

• 907 Youngstown Kingsville Rd. SE, Vienna, OH 44473

45 minute narrated safari trips are available at Wagon Trails where you can see 350 animals from 6 different continents! There is also a petting zoo that is included with admission. Food is for sale separately.

Petting Zoos and Animal Farms in Central Ohio

Olentangy indian caverns.

• 1779 Home Rd., Delaware, OH 43015

Olentangy Indian Caverns has a great petting zoo with two sides: one for goats and other animals and a separate side just for deer. The petting zoo area is large and there are goats, pigs, a zebu, and sheep. Cups of feed are for sale and the animals will be very excited to see you arrive bearing food!

The grounds are also home to many other activities including cavern tours, mini golf, a playground, gem mining and more!

Slate Run Living Historical Farm

• 1375 OH-674, Canal Winchester, OH 43110

Slate Run Farm is part of Columbus and Franklin County Metro Parks. Visit a working farm 1880’s style. Visit the barns to see pigs, horses, turkeys and more! If you visit in the spring, you are likely to see babies!

Ohio Wildlife Center

• 6131 Cook Rd., Powell, Ohio 43065

Ohio Wildlife Center is home to animals that have been hurt and can no longer live in the wild! The center offers special open house hours and events. Walk the grounds to see the resident animals or attend an event to meet an ambassador animal up close! Be sure to check their schedule before visiting! 

• Related: 4 Nature-Themed Story Times Around Columbus

Stratford Ecological Center

• 3083 Liberty Rd., Delaware, OH 43015

Stratford Ecological Center is an organic farm and nature preserve. Visitors can explore the grounds and visit the animals in the barn! Babies are usually born every spring which is a fun sight to see! The grounds are home to a pond, garden and barn. Special events take place throughout the year.

Sunrise Sanctuary

• 16730 Martin Welch Rd., Marysville, OH 43040

Sunrise Sanctuary is home to rescued animals that were abandoned, abused or neglected. The Sanctuary is only open on monthly Open Barn Days. Tickets are required to visit. You can visit with and pet the resident animals during these special days but no feeding is allowed.

Idle Hour Ranch

• 4845 Fenner Rd., Troy, OH 45373

Idle-Hour Ranch offers a drive-thru safari, camel rides, pony rides, gemstone mining, and more!

Carriage Hill Historical Farm

• 7800 Shull Rd., Huber Heights, OH 45424

Part of the Five Rivers Metroparks, this historical farm serves to teach us about our agricultural heritage and functions as a farm would in the 1880s. The grounds includes a farmhouse, visitor center, live enactments and a barn that is home to horses, sheep, hogs and chickens!

Horse-N-Round Fun

Horse-N-Round Fun offers special events for the public. They can also be reserved for corporate events, birthday parties and more! Public events offer horse back rides and petting zoos. Follow them on Facebook to see where to join in on the fun next! 

Bring the Farm to You

You can find Bring the Farm to You popping up around Central Ohio doing just what the name suggests: bringing animals and hands-on farm fun to you. They offer programs for parties, programs and you can find them at special events. 

Petting Zoos and Animal Farms in Southern Ohio

Glen helen raptor center.

• 1075 OH-343, Yellow Springs, OH 45387

The Glen Helen Raptor Center is part of the Glen Helen Nature Preserve in Yellow Springs, Ohio. The Raptor Center offers rehabilitation to injured raptors with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. You can visit the center to see the birds that live there or attend an educational event. 

• 14000 International Rd., Cumberland, OH 43732

Take an African safari tour right here in Ohio! The Wilds is the largest wildlife conservation center in North America and you can tour the grounds in an open air safari! This is a really unique experience that includes a lot of educational information about how The Wilds has contributed to the conservation of endangered animals.

Other special experiences are available such as a Fishing Safari, an overnight in a yurt, a zipline, and other up-close experiences.  

Young’s Jersey Dairy

• 6880 Springfield Xenia Rd., Yellow Springs, OH 45387

Young’s Dairy is home to, you guessed it, cows! Visit the cows up close or visit the barn to hand feed goats! Feed is available in the Dairy Store. You may also be able to watch cows being milked if you arrive in the late afternoon!  

There are lots of other activities at Young’s Jersey Dairy including mini golf, batting cages, slides, and more! Plus don’t miss the ice cream!

Zoos in Ohio

Columbus zoo and aquarium.

• 4850 Powell Rd., Powell, OH 43065 

Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to see all kinds of animals! Special experiences are available in order to get up close and personal with some of your favorite animals!

The zoo is home to a petting zoo that is included with admission. It is in the North America section of the zoo and you can pet goats and sheep or ride a pony! (Pony rides are an additional fee.) 

• Read: Over 100 Fun Things to do in Columbus, Ohio

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

• 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109 

Visit hundreds of animals at the zoo! Special experiences are available including getting up close with an ambassador animal! There is a petting zoo in the Australian Adventure Area called Kookaburra Station featuring sheep, goats, miniature donkeys and more! 

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

• 3400 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45220

The Spaulding Children’s Zoo at Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden includes animal encounters, a playground, and a petting yard where kids can interact with goats and sheep! 

• Related: 25 Super Fun Things to do in Ohio with Kids

Toledo Zoo and Aquarium

• 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609 

Nature’s Neighborhood at Toledo Zoo and Aquarium includes live animal shows, a stream and beach, and a tree house. It also includes indoor areas to explore and a petting zoo featuring farm animals. 

• 500 Edgewood Ave., Akron, OH 44307

Akron Zoo is home to over 700 animals. Have up-close encounters with animals at the Learning Lab (open May-September). VIP experiences are also available and allow you to interact with animals and see them behind the scenes!

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Thursday 15th of April 2021

We just visited the Ohio bird sanctuary last week and our boys LOVED it. Their pet chicken in the lobby was very friendly. Thanks for the great recommendation!

Discover all that Ohio Amish Country has to offer.

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24 Hours in Amish Country

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You can enjoy so much with just one day away.

If you need a quick change of scene, escape to a land of buggies, meadows, and wide-open skies. In one full day, you can discover the food, culture, shopping, and entertainment that's so unique to our place. Begin your day with fresh-baked pastries made by-hand in a non-electric kitchen. Journey on to explore the history and traditions of the Anabaptist people who've made our community special. Stroll the small shops, and stop for an authentic Amish-style dinner. You have a full 24 hours, so spend the evening relaxing poolside at your hotel or try out a treehouse. Start over again in the morning with a stack of hotcakes and fresh outlook on life. Why staycation when you can away-cation in Amish Country?

Arrive and Shine

Commence Relaxation

Miller’s Bakery Stop for morning fuel at Miller’s Bakery, just off of OH-557. They bake all of their delectable treats from scratch daily. Miller’s specializes in pastries, cookies, cheese tarts, homemade candies, fry pies, fruit pies, crafts, and lots more. From the rasping gaslights to the warm bread aromas, this stop will start your mouth watering for a day of exploring.  

Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center The Amish and Mennonite Heritage Center provides a historical background on the formation of Anabaptist groups and chronicles the migration of Amish and Mennonites into Holmes County. The Center features a 265’ mural that interprets this heritage. They offer guided tours and feature a restored bank barn with Conestoga wagon and a one-room schoolhouse. If you have questions about Amish culture and customs, ask them here!

Heini’s Cheese Chalet Heini’s Cheese has been crafting artisan-style cheeses since 1935. They still use local dairy, and you can watch the cheesemaking process if you arrive in the morning. The shop offers over 50 sampling varieties, so you can try and buy your favorites. They also feature locally made jams and jellies, as well as some bulk food items. It’s a favorite stop for visitors and locals.

Trip trivia 

Did you know that Heini’s Cheese produces about 50,000 pounds of cheese each week? That’s greater than the weight of a city commuter bus. Tastier, too!

Explore Away

Treats and Shopping

Berlin Main Street Merchants  The village of Berlin offers the most walkable shopping area for Amish Country goods. The area features over 50 shops, restaurants, lodgings, and attractions. You can plan an afternoon meander through the village, or target your favorite places. You’ll find fabric, bulk foods, gifts, crafts, and so much more.

Schrock’s Heritage Village Enjoy your final hours in Amish Country within this small “village,” you will find an antique mall, craft mall, fabric shop, market, and year-round Christmas store. It’s an excellent stop for families.  

Find Adventure At Every Turn

With 160 miles of scenic views and things to do, the Amish Country Byway offers quick and easy access to some of our region’s best attractions. Enjoy local food and culture at one of the many stops along the way, or simply sit back and enjoy the ride. 

Peaceful Pleasures

Making the Moments Count

Berlin Farmstead Restaurant Berlin Farmstead features Amish-style cooking and offers a buffet, menu options, and specials. They have an onsite bakery and banquet facilities. Farmstead serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it an excellent stop any time of day. They provide broad menu options that may suit special diets and are able to easily accommodate varied mobilities and group sizes.  

Entertainment:

Amish Country Theater Amish Country Theater’s variety shows will provide hilarious entertainment for the entire family. The shows feature live bluegrass music, hilarious actors, ventriloquists, and homemade concessions inside a state-of-the-art theater.   

Comfort Suites Berlin Steps away from Downtown Berlin, Comfort Suites Berlin is a convenient and relaxing option for your overnight stay. The recently-expanded, 117-suite hotel has a conference center, all non-smoking rooms, 2 elevators, free hot breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and indoor pool with exercise room. Two large porch seating areas are perfect for watching buggies roll past and enjoying fresh air.  

Amish Country Lodging If you prefer some solitude, check out Amish Country Lodging. Luxury, Amish-built, log cabins are located just outside of Berlin and overlook a serene pond. Cabins offer Jacuzzi, stone fireplace, pool table, hot tub, kitchenette, full living room and dining area, front porch with rocking chairs, free internet, LCD televisions with DVD players, AC/heat, charcoal grills, firepits and much more. Nice setting 1/4 mile from town. These are great for couples or families. Ask about Amish Country Lodging’s unique treehouses.  

Breakfast   Boyd & Wurthmann

Boyd & Wurthmann is a small homestyle diner that features Amish Country favorites. They like to tout that it’s “where the locals go”--because it’s true! They maintain authentic charm and flavors. Trail and Swiss sandwiches and seasonal dandelion gravy are B&W specialties, but try a stack of buckwheat pancakes or fried mush for your breakfast.

Amish Co Pro Tip 

The hardest part of vacation can be getting out of your door! Amish Country doesn’t have official opening and closing times. If you enjoy having space at your attraction spots, arrive early and begin the day at 8-9 a.m. If you want a leisurely meander, many attractions and shops are open until 5-6 p.m., and restaurants will be open into early evening. Sundays remain a day of rest for Amish folks--plan accordingly. 

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Northeast Ohio Family Fun

Make Memories, One Cool Family Outing at a Time!

23 Spectacular Weekend Getaways in Ohio

Last Updated: 11/9/2023

If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend away or a few days of adventure with the kids, our list of weekend getaways in Ohio is just what you’re looking for! 

With miles of beautiful Lake Erie coastline, acres of outdoor adventure, and cities full of art, culture, and activity, this list can help you find the perfect getaway.

Outdoor Adventure Weekend Getaways

If enjoying a sunset stroll, hiking to breathtaking waterfalls and getting outside in the fresh air is your idea of a perfect day, then these outdoor adventures would make the perfect weekend getaway!

Hocking Hills State Park

Ohio is home to 75 state parks and Hocking Hills is a favorite with up to 5 million visitors per year. The beautiful 2,373 acre park is full of outdoor adventure, picturesque land forms and natural features that keep people coming back for more.

The park is awe inspiring in every season, so no matter what time of year you choose to visit you won’t be disappointed. Take the whole family to explore the many amazing cliffs, gorges, caves, and waterfalls including Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, Cantwell Cliff and the popular Rock House. Activities include hiking, fishing, hunting, disc golf, boating, archery, bridle trails, mountain biking, and a full schedule of naturalist programs.

With so many things to do, you’ll want to plan at least a full weekend and stay at one of the many lodging opportunities. Within the park you’ll find cabins and a variety of camping options as well as more lodging options in the surrounding area.

Hocking Hills State Park 19852 State Route 664 S, Logan, OH 43138 (740)385-6842 Website

You may be interested in: More fun things to do in Hocking Hills

Maumee Bay State Park

Located on the beautiful shores of Lake Erie, Maumee Bay State Park is 1,336 acres of natural beauty. With 2 miles of boardwalk and 5 miles of biking/walking paths, the park is perfect for a nature walk or a relaxing bike ride.

Visitors can also enjoy Lake Erie access from the huge sand beach, swim, kayak and sail on the park’s beautiful inland lake, explore the park’s wetlands, and enjoy additional recreational activities including racquetball, a game room, a children’s soft play area, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and more at the lodge.

Accommodations include 120 comfortable rooms at the Maumee Bay Lodge, as well as cabins, marina slips, and a variety of camping options including full-hookup and electric sites. Be sure to plan ahead and reserve your room or campsite in advance.

Maumee Bay State Park 1400 State Park Rd, Oregon, OH 43616 (888)988-7469 Website

Plan for an amazing animal and thrill experience when you visit the Columbus Zoo’s conservation safari park, The Wilds. Located in Cumberland Ohio, your family can learn, explore, and play through the wide variety of immersive experiences, programs, and unique overnight opportunities offered.

The Wild’s 9,000+ acre park is focused on conservation and is home to rare and endangered animal species from Bactrian camels, to cheetahs, to giraffes, to Grevy’s zebras and many, many more. Experience the animals at the Wild’s by taking one or more of their many exciting tours including Open-Air Safari, Fishing Safari, Zipline Tour, and unique specialty tours. Visit their website for a full list of tours and be sure to make your required reservations online and in advance.

Staying at the park is also a wild experience with overnight adult-only yurt packages overlooking the animal pastures, family sized 3 bedroom cabins at Straker Lake, comfortable and spacious larger group accommodations at The Lodge, and for the more adventurous groups, spend a night camping in the pastures with rhinos, giraffes, and other animals nearby!

The Wilds 14000 International Rd., Cumberland, OH 43732 (740)638-5030 Website

You may be interested in: the top zoos in Ohio and aquariums in Ohio  

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Established in 1974 as part of the National Park Service, the admission free 33,000 acre Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a beautiful place to explore nature, hosting more than 2 million visitors per year. The park stretches from Cleveland to Akron and offers a multitude of landscapes and natural features to explore including the Cuyahoga river, marshes, gorges, waterfalls, ledges, cliffs, lakes and more. 

Visitors will find miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, paddling, and cross-country skiing offering you many ways to experience the rich wildlife found in the park. You can also enjoy the beauty and nature of the park by train when you plan an excursion on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The train offers several stops throughout the day and bikes and kayaks are welcome on board.

Spend the weekend at one of the many lodging options in the cities, towns and villages that surround the park. Stay at the Inn at Brandywine Falls, reserve Stanford House for the whole family, rent a cabin, or camp at one of many campgrounds located nearby.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park 15610 Vaughn Rd., Brecksville, OH 44141 (440)546-5989 Website

You may also be interested in: Waterfalls in Ohio

Mohican State Park

Once the hunting grounds for the Delaware Native Amerians, Mohican State Park is now a place to get away for year round fun in nature.

The park includes 9 hiking trails that lead you to past a scenic covered bridge, two waterfalls, the lake shoreline, and more. Hikers are also welcome on the 25 mile mountain bike trail and bridle trails located in the park and surrounding state forest. If you enjoy fishing, take your rod to try your hand at catching bass, white crappies and brown trout in the many lake and river fishing areas.

When staying in the park, reserve your room at the Mohican Lodge and Conference Center where you’ll find a variety of educational activities, naturalist programs, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, on-site restaurants and recreational activities. The Mohican State Park Campground offers a variety of camping options including cabins, campers, and primitive sites with reservations available up to six months in advance.

Mohican State Park 3116 State Roate 3, Loudenville, OH 44842 (419)994-5125 Website

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Weekend Getaways to the City

If you prefer to take in sights and sounds of the city, while experiencing art, history and entertainment, then you'll love these weekend getaways in Ohio's biggest cities.  

Columbus Ohio

As the largest city in Ohio and the state capital, there are so many things to do in Columbus Ohio that will make you want to go back before you have even left! The city is located on the beautiful Scioto River and offers educational opportunities, art, entertainment, parks, gardens and so much more than you can enjoy in just one weekend getaway.

With more than 10,000 animals and a long special events calendar, you won’t want to miss the Columbus Zoo. Visit COSI for interactive hands-on science fun with a 3D giant screen theater and onsite Planetarium. Take a guided tour of the Columbus Museum of Art. Explore nature at the Franklin Park Conservatory or Topiary Park. Kayak or boat your way through Alum Creek State Park and finish your fun with a tasty treat at Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams.

Browse our long list of the best things to do in Columbus where you’re sure to find activities your whole family will love.

Find even more fun things to do in Columbus Ohio

Cleveland Ohio

Cleveland is the oldest city in Ohio with miles of beautiful Lake Erie shores, culture, sports, art, recreation, food, history, and tons of family fun and activity.

You’ll find amazing museums and activity centers in the city. Celebrate all things music at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Spend hours exploring the 45,000 permanent works of art at the popular Cleveland Museum of Art. Explore the huge William G. Mather steamship. Get hands-on with science at the Great Lakes Science Center and learn about the history of money at the Cleveland Money Museum.

If you like animals, be sure to take a guided tour, visit animals, or attend a special event at the Cleveland Zoo or Greater Cleveland Aquarium. Enjoy major league baseball at Progressive Field home to the Cleveland Guardians or enjoy beautiful views of Lake Erie at one of the many beaches and parks in the Cleveland Metroparks System.

Find even more fun things to do in Cleveland Ohio

Cincinnati Ohio

Southwestern Ohio is home to the state’s third largest city located on the Ohio River. Cincinnati is the perfect city for a weekend getaway with scenic bridges, beautiful parks, historic landmarks, restaurants, and all the activities and attractions to keep everyone having fun.

Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the city from the Carew Tower Observation Deck. Explore the many museums at the Cincinnati Museum Center located within the historic Union Terminal. Take a tour of the American Sign Museum to learn about the history and craftsmanship of the sign industry and hear stories of freedom at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. 

For a change of pace enjoy a picnic and play at Sawyers Point Park and Yeatman’s Cove. Enjoy a meal and shop in the Over the Rhine District, visit Loveland Castle, or spend the evening looking to the skys at the Cincinnati Observatory.

Find even more fun things to do in Cincinnati Ohio

Sports, culture, art, history and outdoor activity, Akron has it all with year round fun and options and activities for everyone in the family.

Visit the Akron Zoo for an afternoon of up-close animal experiences. Take a step back in time when you visit Hale Farm and Village outdoor living history museum. Book a train ride on the Cuyahoga Scenic Railway and explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park by train, foot, bike, or kayak.

Akron is fun all year long and offers tons of seasonal fun. Play in the summer sun at Water Works Park. Enjoy a fall hike or bike on the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Ski, snowboard, or tube at Boston Mills and Brandywine Resorts. And take a Christmastime tour of the beautifully decorated historic Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens.

Find even more fun things to do in Akron Ohio

Canton Ohio

With so many options and activities for the whole family, Canton is the perfect spot for a fun “small city” weekend getaway without stress.

Head to Canton to visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame to learn all about the history of the game. Explore all the amazing planes and history artillery found at the MAPs Air Museum. Enjoy a snack or lunch when you explore the colorful Umbrella Alley in Louisville. Or take the kids for a factory tour of  Fannie May Harry London Chocolates. 

When you’re ready to get outside, spend a day in the sun at Clays Park or Baylor Beach Park for hours of water fun. Spend the night at Atwood Lake Park campground and your days at the beach, playground and on the trails. Headout to the countryside (only 15 minutes from downtown Canton) and relax among the grapevines, rolling hills, and willow trees at Gervasi Vineyard.

Find even more fun things to do in Canton Ohio

Toledo Ohio

As fun and beautiful as Toledo is it’s hard to believe it was once known as the “Great Black Swamp”. The city is home to fun and adventure located on the shores of Lake Erie and the banks of the Maumee River. You'll find art, history, animal encounters, museums and a large variety of family attractions and activities.

Stay at the lodge or campground at Maumee Bay State Park and enjoy 1,366 acres of lake fun and activity. Bike, hike, ride your horse, cross-country ski and explore nature at Oak Openings Preserve. Play and enjoy the sights at Swan Creek Preserve Metropark. And learn about navel history at the National Museum of the Great Lakes.

For really unique experience head out to Fossil Park to hunt for fossilized brachiopods, corals and more that lived there over 375 million years ago. And no one can spend a weekend in Toledo without taking in a game with the Toledo Mud Hens then and having at least one meal at Tony Packo’s Cafe.

Find even more fun things to do in Toledo Ohio

Dayton Ohio

Dayton is most famously known for the Wright Brothers and the growth of industry, but this southern Ohio city has so many fun things to do from art to Indian village.

The Dayton Art Institute offers work-class works of art and a long list of programs, concerts, lectures, and special events. Visit the Schuster Center and enjoy a performance from the $10 “cheap seats.” Head out to Boonshoft Museum of Discovery for science fun and their Discovery Zoo with over a hundred live animals including tarantulas, crawling critters, and their resident Burmese python. If your family enjoys history, you won’t want to miss Sunwatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park where you explore a Native American life and stay overnight in an 800 year old reconstructed home.

These are just a few of the fun things to do in Dayton. See our full article for more ideas and links.

Find even more fun things to do in Dayton Ohio

Youngstown Ohio

In addition to all of the popular activities you expect from a modern city, there are also a few gems and unique things to do in Youngstown you might not. From art to hockey, parks to planets and more, you’ll find it all in Youngstown, Ohio.

Head to the Butler Institute of American Art for a tour of this world renowned free art museum or spend an exciting evening of hockey fun with the Youngstown Phantoms. Explore nature and enjoy an outdoor concert at Boardman Park or check out the historic mill at Mill Creek Park before enjoying a bike ride or hike.

If you’re looking for science fun, be sure to include OH WOW! Children’s Center of Science & Technology and the Ward Beecher Planetarium to your weekend plans. The science center is the perfect place to enjoy hands-on science from light to water works and the planetarium offers live shows and a variety of programs for all ages.

Find even more fun things to do in Youngstown Ohio

Sandusky Ohio

The Sandusky area is most known for the thrill rides at Cedar Point Amusement park, but this city has so much to to see and do that you’ll need to plan more than one weekend getaway to enjoy them all. 

Stay at one of the area's many fun themed indoor and outdoor water parks for water fun, arcades, bowling, and more. Hang out and build sand castles at Nickle Plate Beach, kayak and enjoy a picnic at Catawba Island State Park, or jet ski at Cedar Point Beach. Spend an afternoon with thrills and chills at the year round haunted house, enjoy skating, VR gaming and more indoor fun at Ghostly Manor amusement center. 

If you’re looking for side trips when staying in Sandusky be sure to catch a boat from the downtown area to explore Put-in-Bay, Kelley’s Island, or go island hopping. Head to Port Clinton for animal fun at the African Safari Wildlife Park and so much more. 

Find even more fun things to do in Sandusky Ohio

Weekend Getaways to the Best Small Towns in Ohio

These charming small towns with unique activities and delicious foods should be at the top of your weekend getaway bucket list.

Amish Country

With beautiful landscapes, hearty Amish foods, shopping, and unique activities, Ohio’s Amish country is perfect for families, romantic getaway, or a girl’s weekend away with friends.

Stay at one of the many inns, cabins, or treehouses in the area then head out for shopping at the Holmes County Flea Market, Lehman’s Hardware, or Sols in Berlin. Stop by Sugarcreek for lunch and see the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock. Visit and feed exotic animals at The Farm at Walnut Creek or enjoy the countryside by horseback at Amish Country Riding Stables. Tour an Amish home, enjoy a meal with the family, take a buggy ride and so much more.

If you’re looking for Amish history, museums and entertainment, Amish Country is the place for you. Find out more about this unique area and friendly people who live there with our featured article on the Best Things to Do in Amish Country .

Find even more fun things to do in Amish Country

Coshocton Ohio

Wine, festivals, history and charm is what you’ll find when you plan a weekend getaway in Coshocton Ohio.

With the beauty of the Appalachian foothills and surrounding countryside, Coshocton offers miles of fun and activity. Stay at one of the historic quaint inns, bed and breakfasts, lodges, cabins, or campgrounds. Shop, eat, take a photo at the Helmick Covered Bridge, or take a horse drawn boat ride and Living History Tour in Historic Roscoe Village. Climb 65 feet to the top of the dome of the Gospel Hill Lighthouse for amazing views.

Coshocton is is also the perfect place explore by motorcycle or car. See if you can find and snap a picture of all of the barns on The Quilt Barn Trail. Hop on the Wine and Beer Trail for dinner and a glass from one of the 9 wineries and breweries. Or enjoy the variety of outdoor recreation opportunities to fish, bike, ride horses, hunt, or just stroll through one of the beautiful gardens or parks. Visit the visitors bureau website for downloadable copy of their visitors guide and festivals list.

Coshocton Visitors Bureau 432 North Whitewoman Street, Coshocton, OH 43812 Website

Yellow Springs Ohio

Not far outside of Dayton and topping out at just under 3,700 residents, Yellow Springs Ohio was given the title as one of the “Coolest Small Towns in America” by Budget Travel for its diverse community of arts, entertainment, and culture.

Visitors can shop from the over 50 unique boutiques, enjoy a great meal, and dive into the art and creative community of the area with live theater, music, and more. Surrounded by farm country and preserved woodlands, camp at John Bryan State Park, bike the Little Miami Bike Trail, or have an ice cream and learn about dairy farming at Young’s Dairy.

With so much to enjoy, the village is best known for their annual Street Fair in October, when the village business district hosts over 200 eclectic vendors, street performers with music and entertainment from two stages for a full day of “endless fun.”

Yellow Springs Chamber of Commerce 101 Dayton St., Yellow Springs, OH 45387 Website

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Ashtabula Ohio

Lake Erie beaches and beautiful views, history, hiking, biking, covered bridges, and more all await you in Ashtabula County Ohio. Did I mention the wine? With more than 30 wineries, the county is often referred to as Ohio’s Wine Country.

With so much to see and do and so many wineries and restaurants to try, Ashtabula is the perfect weekend getaway in Ohio. Plan a romantic trip and stay at Lakehouse Inn Resort, enjoy a picnic at the Harpersfield Covered Bridge, and spend the evening at Biscotti’s Italian Restaurant. Or take the kids and explore a museum, play at Adventure Zone or Geneva State Park, eat outdoors at the White Turkey Drive-In, or take a bike ride on the Western Reserve Greenway. 

If you’re looking for a getaway with the girls, spend your days shopping, sun bathing, exploring the wineries, or take a self-guided tour of the 19 amazing covered bridges before enjoying dinner and theater at Noble Art Entertainment. Be sure to visit the visitors bureau website for a long list of special events and activities happening year round.

Ashtabula County Visitors Bureau 1850 Austinburg Road, Austinburg, OH 44010 Website

You may also be interested in: Covered Bridges in Ohio  

Relaxing Getaways in Ohio

Ready to sit back, relax and come away rejuvenated at one of these unique locations – vineyards, castles and lake views await!

Gervasi Vineyard

Step out of the everyday and relax in luxury when you spend your weekend at Gervasi Vineyard in Canton. Stay, dine and escape on retreat at the 55 acre Tuscan inspired estate with beautiful views, luxurious accommodations, and delicious cuisine.

The premier winery and resort offers several accommodation options including The Casa, an upscale boutique hotel with 24 all suite guest rooms and private covered patio, The Villas offering 4 Tuscan designed suites within each villa (rent one suite or the whole villa), and the 2,200 sq. ft. original home of the estate, and The Farmhouse, with 4 bedrooms and room for 7-8 guests.

Relax with wine, cocktails, and a delicious meal at one of the three on-site restaurants. Enjoy live music on the patio. Take a yoga class or play bocce on the lawn. Plan a tasting or schedule a tour of the winery. Participate in a culinary class or enjoy one of the many other special events happening while you’re there.

Gervasi Vineyard 1700 55th St. NE, Canton, OH 446721 Website

You may be interested in:  Top resorts in Ohio including family and date night options!

Landoll's Mohican Castle

Enjoy a unique and relaxing experience when you stay at Landoll’s Mohican Castle. The boutique hotel offers guests the style of an old world castle complete with fine furnishings, uniquely designed rooms, and architectural details through every corner of the property.

Stay in one of the Castle Suites, the Highland Suites, The Stables Suites, or in one of the hotel's two free-standing cottages. All of the suites and cottages have been designed to provide guests with the same historic, castle charm with amenities including jetted tubs and seasonal fireplaces.

Enjoy your meals at the onsite restaurant featured on Gordon Ramsay’s television show in 2016 and try one of his signature dishes. The Castle also offers several themed events for both guests and the public, including Breakfast with Santa, several Christmas activities, as well as Halloween events, dinners, ghost walks, and history tours.

Landoll's Mohican Castle 561 Township Road 3352, Loudonville, OH 44842 Website

You may also be interested in: More amazing castles in Ohio

Geneva on the Lake Ohio

Located in Ashtabula County Wine Country and boasted to be Ohio’s first summer resort, the Village of Geneva on the Lake offers visitors Lake Erie views, relaxing beach days, adventurous outdoor activity, and tons of family fun.

Stay at one of the areas available cottages, condominium rentals, bed and breakfast options, or choose from one of four local campgrounds. Play all day at Adventure Zone with mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats and more. Kayak on the Grand River, rent jet skis, take out a fishing charter, or head out to Lake Erie Canopy Tours to zipline or try the adventure rope course challenge. 

If you’re looking for a slower pace, spend your days shopping at the unique boutique shops, biking, hiking, or sun bathing at Geneva State Park, or take a wine tour by limousine or trolley.

Geneva on the Lake Convention and Visitors Bureau 5540 Lake Road E., Geneva-on-the-Lake, OH 44041 Website

Put in Bay Ohio

Once serving as a base for commander Oliver Hazard Perry during the War of 1812, South Bass Island, popularly known as Put-in-Bay, is now a boaters paradise and island of activity for visitors. 

The second largest of the Lake Erie Islands, Put-in-Bay is only accessible by ferry, private boat, or airplane, but once you arrive the most popular transportation is bike or golf cart. Camp at the State Park, relax lakeside, learn about the history of the island at Perry’s Monument, explore a cave, tour a winery, play at Adventure Bay Amusement Park, and more.

The island offers many lodging options from bed and breakfasts to private homes. Shopping from a candy store to wine, jewelry, gifts and more. And enjoy a meal from the large variety of food, restaurants, and bars. Fun foodie trail videos can be found on their tourism website along with an island guide and map.

Put in Bay Ohio Tourism Bureau 148 Delaware Ave., Put-in-Bay, Ohio 43456 Website

Find even more fun things to do in Put in Bay

Kelleys Island Ohio

Laid back and relaxing, Kelley’s Island is the largest of the Lake Erie Islands and is home to about 150 year round residents who welcome thousands of visitors by private boat, ferry, and plane to their beautiful shores each year.

Camp at the Kelleys Island State Park with 100 feet of swimming beach, stay at the Kelleys Island Venture Resort and enjoy the outdoor swimming pool with lake views, or rent one of the many cottages and private homes available. 

In addition to the many outdoor activities available on the island, Kelleys offers a variety of experiences including parades and festivals, a history museum, shopping, wine and beer tastings, and more. 

Kelleys Island Ohio 117 Addison Road, Kelleys Island, OH 43438 Website

More Fun Things to do in Ohio

• Cabin Rentals in Ohio – 37 locations for the perfect getaway
• Treehouse Rentals in Ohio – 11 Stunning locations (Family & Date Night Options!)
• Romantic Getaways in Ohio – 14 of Ohio’s most magical, unique getaways
• Campgrounds in Ohio – The best RV Hookups, Cabins and Tent Camping Options
• Resorts in Ohio –  Family and date night options

Get Ready For Fun!

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Mohican-Loudonville Visitors Bureau

The Mohican-Loudonville Visitors Bureau puts the camp and canoe capital of Ohio on the map by promoting the best of Mohican-Loudonville. It’s the first stop for anyone looking for the best attractions, dining, lodging, and shopping in the region around Ashland County and is just a short drive from Amish Country.

Where to Shop

The pottery niche.

Introduced to Polish Pottery in 1992, Pottery Niche owner, Eleanor Gray shares her love for pottery with visitors to Ohio’s Amish Country. Exquisitely crafted and beautifully hand-painted, the Polish Pottery on display at the Pottery Niche is sure to become a favorite of enthusiasts and casual collectors alike. Serving the Area Since 2003

Where to Eat

Berlin farmstead restaurant.

Near downtown Berlin, Farmstead Restaurant is a short distance from most shops or hotels in the village and a convenient gathering spot for both locals and visitors. Your Amish Country favorites are here, such as fried chicken and real mashed potatoes, as well as fresh salads, wraps and seasonal desserts.

Where to Stay

Berlin grande hotel.

In a charming village overlooking Ohio's beautiful Amish country, the recently expanded in 2017, Berlin Grande Hotel invites guests to indulge in the luxury of an upscale boutique hotel while experiencing the serenity and simplicity of an earlier era. Spacious guest rooms with tasteful decor invite you to relax and unwind in style.

Recent Stories from Amish Country

That warm and fuzzy feeling.

Experience the warmth of small-town America in Historic Downtown Millersburg.

The golden goal

A commitment to treating customers right is the driving force at Walnut Creek Cheese.

Laundry day

Laundry day takes up a big chunk of the day.

Upcoming Events in Amish Country

Things to do in amish country, ohio's amish country magazine.

Plan your visit to Ohio’s Amish Country, home of the world’s largest Amish/Mennonite settlement.

Amish Country Theater

Ohio Amish Country's newest and funniest attraction! The 325 seat state-of-the-art theater features a live, family-friendly variety show “will have you laughing the entire car ride home.” The show is...

Toland-Herzig Famous Endings Museum

It all started back in 1996 when John Herzig's hobby was collecting autographs. John had requested the autographed photo of legendary boxer Joe Louis and received a package containing more than just...

Wayne County Convention & Visitors Bureau

Ready to share Wayne County's biggest and smallest gems? From downtown dazzle to country calm, guests enjoy the best of the area, including the famous J.M. Smucker Company Store & Cafe, The Ohio...

Locally Handcrafted Furniture in Amish Country

Swiss country lawn & crafts.

A colorful row of Adirondack chairs draw visitors in to the shop that once inside, features much more than outdoor furniture. Clocks, home décor and candles are just some of the things you’ll find at...

Pleasant View Furniture

Locally made furniture custom built to customer specifications makes Pleasant View Furniture stand out in the region. This family owned business has been providing quality products and great service...

Erb's Stove Center

Step into the Erb’s Stove Center showroom and you’ll see a large variety of fireplaces, stoves, handcrafted mantles and any fireplace accessory you need! Not to mention their outdoor living products...

Kauffman Lawn Furniture

Kauffman Lawn Furniture is located in the center of Amish Country and offers a large variety of outdoor furniture and structures. They have one of the biggest outdoor displays in the area, which...

Places to Eat in Amish Country

Historic downtown millersburg.

Historic Downtown Millersburg may reside in the heart of Amish Country, and while there is the Amish and Mennonite flavor, Historic Downtown Millersburg is so much more.

Guggisberg Cheese

In 1947, Alfred Guggisberg ventured to the U.S. from Switzerland to pursue his cheesemaking dream, arriving in Holmes County, Ohio. He created Baby Swiss cheese, known for its smaller holes and...

Village of Sugarcreek

Explore our Swiss Village, take in a live show, shop, wine or dine at our unique local establishments, go on a horse-drawn trolley ride or simply stay in your room at one of our cozy inns and enjoy...

J.M. Smucker Company Store and Cafe

With a name like Smucker’s® , it has to be good. It is even better when you visit the store and café where you can shop, dine and purchase gift baskets with a wide array of familiar products. All the...

Where to Stay in Amish Country

Evergreen park rv resort.

The best of indoor luxuries are brought to those who love to camp with extra amenities, such as a hot tub, game room, laundromat and indoor pool. This 87-site campground is open every day with paved...

Berlin Main Street Merchants

Berlin is voted as Ohio's #1 tourist attraction and it's easy to see why when you visit this family-friendly destination. Shopping, dining, lodging and everything in between is waiting for you to...

Water’s Edge Cabins

Looking for a getaway to relax and recharge? Check out cabins in Amish country where you can unplug from the daily grind and relish the slower pace of life.

Berlin Encore Hotel & Suites

The Berlin Encore Hotel & Suites is a brand-new 81-room hotel located in Berlin, Ohio, the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country.

Where to Shop in Amish Country

Breitenbach wine cellars.

The name Breitenbach reflects the scenic grounds where the winery is located. Famous for award-winning sweet and fresh blends that satisfy any palate, the winery includes a gift shop and eatery, in...

Coblentz Chocolates

There’s something for everyone at Coblentz Chocolates. Buckeyes, creamfills, truffles and snappers—whatever type of chocolate you prefer, you’re sure to find it and more.

Berlin Village Antique Mall

Located in the Heart of Amish Country, The Berlin Village Antique Mall features two floors of antiques including, primitives, glassware, large furniture, coins, collectables, as well as a large...

TL Supplies

A family-owned business, TL Supplies builds horse jog carts, and offers a full line of horse supplies along with other pet supplies.

Authentic Recipes from Ohio's Amish Country

Baked potato soup.

A hearty soup for those cool days ahead.

Knuckle Sandwich

A “knuckle sandwich” worth eating.

Broccoli Cheddar Soup

Creamy, hot soup sure to offer some comfort on a cold, winter day.

Lime Meringue Pie

If you like lime, you will love this pie.

What's the difference between Amish and Mennonites

There are some subtle, and not-so-subtle, differences.

Amish family life

The family is the most important social unit in the Amish culture. Large families with seven to ten children are common. Chores are clearly divided by sexual role in the Amish home - the man usually...

Quilting the Amish way

Quilting for the Amish began as a practical art that stemmed from the need to stay warm as they had settled in parts of the country known for their harsh winters.

• Ohio's Zoos

There are multiple zoos in Ohio with each having its own unique attractions and relationship with animals. Of course, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to Jack Hanna, a world-recognized promotor of animals of all kinds, but the zoo has a long history and became famous for being the only zoo in the world where a low-land gorilla gave birth. There are also major zoos in Cleveland, Cincinnati, Akron and Toledo. The other major animal attraction is The Wilds located in southeast Ohio.

In a recent survey of its readers, USA Today ranked 3 of Ohio's zoos in their 10 Best Readers' Choice for Best Zoos in the U.S. This just goes to confirm the quality of Ohio's zoos and how popular they are with Ohio residents.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium The Columbus Zoo has been around for a long time and just continues to get bigger and better. The Columbus Zoo has had a reputation for breeding endangered animals in captivity dating back to the 1950s with the first ever birth in captivity of a lowland gorilla that became a world-wide media star. In 2014 the giraffes returned to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium's new Heart of Africa exhibit that also includes lions, cheetahs, ostriches, wildebeests, gazelles to name a few of the 130 animals grazing the plains of Delaware County. https://www.columbuszoo.org/ Cleveland Metroparks Zoo The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo has its roots deeply rooted in the 19th Century when it first opened to the public as the Cleveland Zoological Park. In the mid 1900s the Zoological park came under the direction of the Cleveland Metroparks and since then has grown rapidly with new exhibits and new wildlife with the most recent addition the African Elephant Crossing. http://www.clevelandmetroparks.com/Zoo/ Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is the second oldest zoo in the United States.  Today the Cincinnati Zoo is deeply involved in breeding endangered animals specifically for their preservation. The zoo is also one of only a few zoos in North America that has been able to successfully house and breed the pygmy chimpanzee, an endangered species of the great apes. http://cincinnatizoo.org/ Akron Zoo The Akron Zoo is one of the newer zoos in the state: it recently celebrated its ## anniversary. The zoo includes more than 50 acres of land with more than 700 animals, but because of its layout, you'll be able to see lots of animals without lots of walking. Besides the unique animals there's also a train ride and carousel to ride. The Akron Zoo plays an active role in several important conservation projects through funding and exhibit space. https://www.akronzoo.org/ Toledo Zoo The Toledo Zoo has more than 9,000 animals which represents over 800 species from around the world. The zoo began with a single donation in 1900. In 2014 the Toledo Zoo won USA TODAY's highest ranking for #1 Zoo in America. http://www.toledozoo.org/

Safari-Like Parks

The Wilds The Wilds is now operating together with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to provide a unique experience to southeast Ohio where a few decades ago, the land had been stripped bare for coal and other minerals. That one barren land has now been reclaimed and and it doesn't take visitors to use much imagination to believe they're actually on a safari in Africa. The open air vehicles allow guests to see lots of animals at a distance or up close depending on the mood of the animals. https://thewilds.columbuszoo.org/

African Safari Wildlife Park While not exactly like a zoo in the traditional sense, the African Safari Wildlife Park near Port Clinton offers visitors an up close and personal experience with a variety of animals, most of which do not want to eat you, but instead, you can feed these animals that docile enough that they won't cause you or your property any harm, but big enough to imagine that they could if the mood hit them. http://www.africansafariwildlifepark.com/

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