ohio tourist video

New Ohio tourism video features some of Cleveland's best spots to visit

CLEVELAND — Ohio dropped a new tourism video Friday. It highlighted some of the many things to do in the Buckeye State through the eyes of a grandma and granddaughter who road tripped across it.

The stop in Cleveland shows yoga at Edgewater Beach, biking through Edgewater Park and catching a show at Playhouse Square.

Watch the video in the player below:

We asked the state about it and were told the video cost $235,000 to produce and used Ohio companies to do it. But this video wasn't just directed towards people from outside of Ohio.

"We want Ohioans to travel within the state of Ohio because when they do, that keeps money with our local businesses," said TourismOhio Director Matt MacLaren.

They plan on using half of their advertising dollars to run the commercial here in Ohio and the other half in states that border us.

And if you're looking for more to do in The Land, there's plenty of unique things to experience in Cleveland for tourists and residents alike—hidden gems are sprinkled throughout the city and the surrounding metro area.

CLICK HERE to check out our 100 hidden gems of Cleveland.

Download the News 5 Cleveland app now for more stories from us, plus alerts on major news, the latest weather forecast, traffic information and much more. Download now on your Apple device here , and your Android device here.

You can also catch News 5 Cleveland on Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, YouTube TV, DIRECTV NOW, Hulu Live and more. We're also on Amazon Alexa devices. Learn more about our streaming options here.

Sign up for What Happened Now? - a daily email newsletter spotlighting the top news in the Cleveland area each day.

Now signed up to receive the what happened now.

Click here to see how we follow through

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in ohio.

Ohio is home to a wide range of attractions, from sprawling parks with stunning waterfalls to the Lake Erie shoreline to bustling cities and college towns. To help you decide where to go during your next trip to the Buckeye State, U.S. News took into account its diversity of attractions, affordability and outdoor offerings (as well as user input) to determine the best places to visit in Ohio. Have a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's list.

Hocking Hills State Park

Cuyahoga valley national park, columbus, oh, port clinton.

With its stunning caves and breathtaking waterfalls, Hocking Hills State Park in southeastern Ohio is one of the state's most beautiful destinations for a romantic getaway or a family outing. Inside the park, you'll discover miles of hiking trails, including the Ash Cave Gorge and Ash Cave Rim trails, which lead to Ash Cave (the largest recess cave in Ohio). You can also follow the 6-mile-long Grandma Gatewood Trail from the welcome center to Old Man's Cave (one of Hocking Hills' most popular areas) before continuing on to Cedar Falls, where you'll find the park's largest waterfall by volume.

Head to Cuyahoga Valley National Park to enjoy a relaxing outdoor escape away from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities like Cleveland and Akron. During the warmer months, this national park offers 125 miles of hiking trails, as well as ample biking, fishing and kayaking opportunities, as well as fun kid-friendly activities, such as junior ranger programs and seasonal train rides. Plus, Cuyahoga Valley turns into a winter wonderland during the cooler months, drawing winter sports enthusiasts interested in spending their vacation snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or sledding.

Renowned author Charles Dickens once called Cincinnati "one of the most interesting [cities] in America," and after visiting, you'll have to agree. The riverfront city is home to several neighborhoods, each with their own distinct flair. Eden Park (a popular green space with 186 acres) is just outside of the picturesque Mount Adams neighborhood, while the historic Over-The-Rhine district is where you'll find Findlay Market, Music Hall and some of the city's best shops, bars and restaurants. While here, be sure to try some of Cincinnati's famous five-way chili.

Whether you're a nature lover, an art enthusiast, a sports fanatic, a foodie or a combination of them all, Cleveland will appeal to you. The city's 18 parks offer everything from hiking trails to golf courses to a zoo, while Progressive Field is where you can watch the Cleveland Guardians play baseball. Other Cleveland must-dos include viewing the Cleveland Museum of Art's 61,000-plus works and learning more about music legends at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Don't leave without grabbing a bite to eat at the West Side Market.

Put-in-Bay, which sits less than 23 miles northwest of Sandusky and is accessible via ferry, is one of Ohio's most-visited Lake Erie islands. On Put-in-Bay, which is part of South Bass Island, visitors can take Island Transportation's Tour Train to get an overview of the island or explore attractions like Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial and the Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center on their own. Those traveling with kids will also want to check out Perry's Cave Family Fun Center, which features a butterfly house, a miniature golf course, a rock climbing wall and a giant maze, among other amenities.

Ohio's capital city has no shortage of things to do. Active travelers will appreciate the miles of walking, jogging and bike trails available at the Scioto Mile. Nature lovers can spend a few hours exploring Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Architecture buffs can admire the charming buildings that comprise the historic German Village neighborhood (don't miss The Book Loft, one of the country's largest independent bookstores). Foodies won't want to miss dining at North Market, and art enthusiasts can visit galleries in the Short North Arts District.

The Maumee River meets Lake Erie in this northwestern Ohio city, so visitors can take to the water on The Sandpiper boat for a picnic lunch or sunset cruise or head to Maumee Bay State Park for its sandy beaches, trails and wetlands. Beyond its waterways, Toledo features engaging attractions like the Toledo Museum of Art, which is free to visit and holds 30,000-plus pieces, and the family-friendly Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. Meanwhile, must-try food experiences include biting into a Hungarian hot dog from Tony Packo's and sipping local brews along the 419 Ale Trail.

Dayton is the birthplace of aviation, so it's hardly surprising that many of its main attractions focus on flying and the history behind it. At Wright Brothers Hill and the John W. Berry, Sr. Wright Brothers National Museum, visitors can get a glimpse into the lives of the innovative pilots and learn more about the first practical aircraft they created. Travelers will also want to check out Dayton's National Museum of the United States Air Force – the world's largest and oldest museum dedicated to military aviation history – and the National Aviation Hall of Fame for more aviation background.

Located along the banks of Lake Erie, Sandusky beckons to water lovers and thrill-seekers. In addition to boasting proximity to waterfront trails and beaches, the town is home to Cedar Point, an amusement park that features some of the world's tallest and fastest roller coasters. The attraction also offers rides designed for little ones, plus a sports center and a water park . Outside of Cedar Point, travelers will find additional family-friendly facilities, including the Merry-Go-Round Museum and Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Sandusky, the largest indoor water park in the state.

Water activities abound in this lakeside town, which sits roughly 40 miles southeast of Toledo. Port Clinton is known for its fishing, so anglers can set their lines to catch walleye. Meanwhile, recreation seekers can launch kayaks and canoes in Catawba Island State Park or take a ferry to the surrounding islands and Cedar Point amusement park. For those who like a bit more bustle on their vacation, Port Clinton always seems to have something going on, from various festivals and concerts throughout the summer to the Walleye Drop on New Year's Eve, a longtime local tradition.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Marietta, OH

Millersburg

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Pennsylvania

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Best Places to Visit in Tennessee

Best Family Vacations in the USA for 2024

Best Weekend Getaways

Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

20 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Ohio

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Jul 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Ohio is a state with wonderful possibilities for travelers looking for a cosmopolitan experience, a small-town retreat, or a full-on escape to nature. Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Dayton offer many of the state's best cultural attractions, great shopping, and a full repertoire of things to do.

Head into the countryside to discover the best of Amish Country, or hit the summer fun towns, like Sandusky, and spend a day at an amusement park. From spring until fall, the lakes and forests are inviting destinations to discover Ohio's best outdoor adventures , many of which can be found in the national and state parks .

In winter, you can even try your luck out on the lakes ice fishing . Regardless of the season, you can find interesting and fun places to visit. Explore the state with our list of the top attractions in Ohio.

1. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

2. national museum of the us air force, 3. cedar point amusement park, 4. hocking hills state park, 5. amish country, 6. columbus zoo and aquarium, 7. cincinnati museum center, 8. franklin park conservatory and botanical gardens, 9. the cleveland museum of art, 10. kings island, 11. pro football hall of fame, 12. ohio caverns, 13. the wilds, 14. a christmas story house & museum, 15. cincinnati zoo & botanical garden, 16. stan hywet hall & gardens, akron, 17. toledo museum of art, 18. fountain square, cincinnati, 19. cuyahoga valley scenic train ride, 20. west side market.

On Cleveland's waterfront, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has become a pilgrimage site for music aficionados. It's the place to visit in Cleveland for music lovers. The museum offers an extraordinarily comprehensive look at rock and roll history on a decade-by-decade basis, featuring all the great artists from various time periods.

Among the seven floors of rock memorabilia, you will find one-of-a-kind musical instruments, costumes, and interactive exhibits. A must-see gallery during your visit is the wing of Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees. Renowned architect I.M. Pei designed the building, which is one of the most recognized structures in Cleveland.

To add a little something extra to your visit, check the museum's Live Music & Events listings for outdoor concerts and music events taking place during your stay in Cleveland.

Address: 1100 Rock and Roll Boulevard, Cleveland, Ohio

Official site: http://www.rockhall.com/

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cleveland

The National Museum of the US Air Force is one of the top free things to do in Ohio. The museum is located on Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton. With more than 360 aerospace items on display, you will walk through a time capsule of aviation history with indoor and outdoor exhibits.

The museum has special meaning in Ohio as natives Wilbur and Orville Wright invented the first successful aircraft. From the Wright brothers' invention to space travel, military aircraft, and the stealth technology of today, you do not have to be an aviation fanatic to enjoy the visit.

One of the most notable areas of the museum is the Presidential Gallery, where you can walk through several preserved aircrafts used by Presidents Roosevelt, Truman, and Eisenhower.

Address: 1100 Spaatz Street, Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio

Official site: http://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Home.aspx

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dayton, OH

Cedar Point amusement park is one of the most popular summer destinations in Ohio. Located near Sandusky on the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point has more than 17 world-class roller coasters, several kids' areas, and live entertainment.

Adjacent to the amusement park is the Cedar Point Shores Water Park, with equally thrilling water adventures. The park has a wave pool, lazy river, shallow pools for children, and a six-story aqua-drop water slide for the truly adventurous. The resort has a variety of accommodation options, from camping to cabins or suites in Cedar Point's Hotel Breakers .

Since the park is located on Cedar Point Beach, you can take advantage of water sports on Lake Erie like kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing.

Address: One Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, Ohio

Official site: https://www.cedarpoint.com/

Hocking Hills State Park near Logan is a rugged natural area popular with outdoor enthusiasts. The area has hiking trails, caves, camping facilities, and cottages. It is also one of the best places for a weekend getaway in Ohio , especially in the fall, when the leaves are changing to vibrant colors in the forested areas.

Park naturalists host regular events throughout the year on topics like bird watching; photography; caves; and hikes, including a popular winter hike that draws thousands of participants. You can review the Hocking Hills State Park event calendar before your visit for the most updated programs.

Local outfitters offer other outdoor adventure options including canoeing, ziplining , and rock climbing. The top areas to visit in the park are Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, Cantwell Cliffs, Rock House, and wheelchair-accessible Ash Cave.

A drive through the rolling landscape of Amish Country on a summer's day is a wonderful way to escape the city and see a simpler lifestyle at work. Amish buggies ply the twisting roads, and farmers work in the fields.

Small communities offer opportunities to stop and pick up everything from household goods to locally made cheeses, candy, ice cream, produce, and much more. While Amish Country spans five counties, the best places to visit first are along the 160 miles of the Amish Country Byway, in Holmes County.

You will want to take your time and keep the agenda flexible as you drive through villages like Walnut Creek, Charm, and Berlin for impromptu stops at cheese factories or for a cup of coffee and fresh bakery items.

Shopping is popular for Amish-made furniture, antiques, and gifts from small independent shops. Keep in mind that nothing will be open in the area on Sundays.

• Read More: Ohio's Amish Country: Highlights and Hidden Treasures

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is consistently rated as one of the top zoos in the nation . More than 10,000 animals and eight regions are featured in the zoo, like Asia Quest, Heart of Africa, Congo Expedition, and North America. Regular stage performances and special educational programs are held throughout the year.

The winter draw is Wildlights, a spectacular celebration with more than three million lights throughout the zoo. It generally runs from late November through the holidays. It is a unique way to see the zoo animals at night and a fun way to enjoy winter in Ohio.

Next to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is Zoombezi Bay water park , which is a popular add-on to a day at the zoo in the summer.

Address: 4850 Powell Road, Powell, Ohio

Official site: https://www.columbuszoo.org/

• Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Columbus
• Top Things to Do in Columbus

The Cincinnati Museum Center is a multi-museum complex inside Union Terminal giving visitors a range of scientific, historical, and educational experiences. There are several museums with combined collections of 1.8 million artifacts.

Visitors can spend time exploring the museums, which include the Cincinnati History Museum, the Duke Energy Children's Museum, the Cincinnati History Library and Archives, the Nancy & David Wolf Holocaust & Humanity Center, the Museum of Natural History and Science, and an OMNIMAX theater.

It can easily be a multi-day visit. The center is worth a visit just to see the 1930s Art Deco train station building. With several cafés located throughout the center, it is easy to find snacks during your visit.

Address: 1301 Western Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio

Official site: http://www.cincymuseum.org/

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cincinnati

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Columbus is a year-round tourist attraction that features indoor and outdoor exhibits of plants and flowers, with special exhibitions that change throughout the year.

The horticultural institution has exotic plant collections that take you around the world. The conservatory is home to several glass greenhouses that feature more than 400 species of plants from the Himalayas, rainforest, desert, and Pacific Islands.

You might see a wedding taking place during your visit to the Palm House, which is a popular backdrop for events. The Victorian-style glass greenhouse was built in the late 1800s and is one of the oldest and largest wings of the facility. The exquisite glass room features 43 species of palms from around the world.

Address: 1777 East Broad Street, Columbus, Ohio

Official site: http://www.fpconservatory.org/

The Cleveland Museum of Art has been an institution in the city since it was founded in 1916. By the 1950s, it had established an international reputation for its collection. The collection has grown and changed directions over the years, and the original Neoclassical building has been repeatedly expanded and renovated.

Today, the museum focuses on a number of different areas, with outstanding collections of European, Asian, and American art. One of the most interactive areas is the ARTLENS Gallery, which lets visitors use digital technology to engage more intimately with the collections of art on display. You can even use the inspiration to create your own masterpiece in the ArtLens Studio.

Address: 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland, Ohio

Official site: http://www.clevelandart.org/

Kings Island amusement park near Cincinnati has been a top family destination in Ohio since it opened in 1972. The park is known for its world-class roller coasters, Planet Snoopy Kids' Area, and special events throughout the year including concerts and themed celebrations like Halloween Haunt and WinterFest.

The park has thrilling roller coasters, like the iconic Beast coaster, Diamondback, and Orion and adventurous rides like Delirium and Flight of Fear. It is just as fun to walk around the park to enjoy attractions like the Eiffel Tower, a popular meeting spot for families throughout the day.

Kings Island also has Soak City Water Park with over 50 water rides and activities, including 36 water slides, float lagoons, and two wave pools to cool off in during the Ohio summers.

Address: 6300 Kings Island Drive, Kings Island, Ohio

Official site: https://www.visitkingsisland.com

Anyone who is a fan of football should visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton. It is a comprehensive museum focused on professional football and the legends who have made history in the game. The museum opened in 1963 as a small space to recognize football excellence.

Today, it has expanded to showcase the historic moments and players who have elevated the game throughout the decades. A must-see exhibit is the Hall of Fame Gallery, which features a bronze bust of the more than 350 Hall of Famers, along with interactive displays with inductee bios, photos, and their greatest moments in football.

Another multi-sensory exhibit is the "A Game for Life" holographic theater, which lets fans see pro football legends like Vince Lombardi and Joe Namath up close by using state-of-the-art interactive technology. Several types of tours are available including a behind-the-scenes VIP tour.

Address: 2121 George Halas Dr. NW, Canton, Ohio

Official site: https://www.profootballhof.com

With a history of more than 125 years, the Ohio Caverns is one of the most fascinating natural experiences in the state. While there are several caverns located throughout Ohio, the Ohio Caverns is the largest, with more than two miles of winding underground passageways.

Take a sightseeing tour to experience the twisting tunnels that take you from 30 feet to 103 feet below the surface to explore the natural geological wonders like stalactites, including the largest one in Ohio, and other formations. The temperature below ground is always at 54 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can visit anytime of the year.

There are several types of tours available, including a Discovery Lantern Tour. The park on the grounds has additional activities like a mining station for fossils and gems that is a hit with kids.

Address: 2210 East State Route 245, West Liberty, Ohio

Official site: https://ohiocaverns.com

You do not expect to see animals like giraffes and rhinos roaming the plains of the rural landscape in Ohio, but a visit to The Wilds in Cumberland will let you experience just that. This is a conservation facility that offers open-air safari tours and even zipline experiences over the landscape to learn about the animals that live at The Wilds in this natural setting.

You will see rare and even endangered animals, and learn about the important efforts that are underway to protect them. A visit to The Wilds gives visitors a chance to see animals like a Bactrian camel, Central Chinese goral, Persian onager, and Sichuan takins.

You can stay overnight at The Lodge at the Wilds ; a cabin by the lake; or in a luxury yurt, where you can sit on your porch at night to enjoy an undisturbed view of the stars.

Address: 14000 International Road., Cumberland, Ohio

Official site: https://thewilds.columbuszoo.org

A fun and nostalgic attraction tucked away in a quiet Cleveland neighborhood is the A Christmas Story House, which was featured in the 1983 holiday classic A Christmas Story. Take a tour inside Ralphie's movie-set home as the recognizable décor and home setting from the movie make the scenes come to life.

Be sure to go across the street to A Christmas Story Museum, which houses many original costumes and movie props, including the family's car, toys, and other memorabilia. The gift shop is where you can take home a piece of movie history with many prop replicas for sale, including the famous leg lamp.

Serious fans of the movie can even plan an overnight stay at the A Christmas Story House, which gives you access to the entire house. The Bumpus House, the home of Ralphie's fictional neighbors, is also available for overnight guests.

Address: 3159 W 11th Street, Cleveland, Ohio

Official site: https://www.achristmasstoryhouse.com

Plan for a full and exciting day when visiting the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, as it is two attractions rolled into one.

The Cincinnati Zoo has habitats like the Cat Canyon, Elephant Reserve, Gibbon Islands, and Roo Valley, which feature species by category and regions. Interactive areas like the children's zoo and the Wings of Wonder bird encounter are popular places to visit.

In addition to the sprawling zoo grounds is the Botanical Garden , which started as a zoological garden in 1875. The gardens feature collections of tulips, endangered plant species, and a butterfly garden. Walk the grounds to learn about the native plants in the area, as well as gardens that are important for pollinators.

There are regular public events and even plant sales where you can pick up some new bulbs or species for your own garden.

Address: 3400 Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio

Official site: https://cincinnatizoo.org

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens in Akron is the nation's sixth largest historic home that is open to the public. You will find yourself enchanted with the original furnishings in the Manor House and the elegant details in the five buildings and historic gardens throughout the 70-acre estate.

F.A. Seiberling, the founder of the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, built the home and surrounding gardens. The name, Stan Hywet, is an Old English term referring to "story quarry," which was the most significant natural feature on the property when it was purchased at the turn of the 20th century.

Take your time as you stroll through the home, gardens, Corbin Conservatory, Gate Lodge, and Carriage House. A gift shop and café are also on the property.

Address: 714 North Portage Path, Akron, Ohio

Official site: http://www.stanhywet.org/

One of the highlights of Toledo is the outstanding Toledo Museum of Art. In existence for well over 100 years, the museum has amassed an extensive collection, which ranges from ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian pieces to American and European painting, and modern and contemporary art. Of particular note is the glass collection.

The museum's campus is spread over close to 40 acres, with 35 galleries in six buildings. The main museum has a distinctive and grand Greek façade. Opened in 2006, the Glass Pavilion, which contains glass-blowing studios and galleries, is a unique postmodern structure with many walls, including the exterior, made entirely of glass.

Official site: http://www.toledomuseum.org/

Cincinnati's Fountain Square is a central meeting place in the city where people can have an outdoor coffee in summer, skate the ice rink in winter, and escape from the confines of offices and apartments.

Located in the center of Cincinnati's expanding and vibrant Fountain Square District, Fountain Square offers great restaurants and free music and entertainment throughout the year. The main feature of the park is the ornate Tyler Davidson Fountain, dedicated in 1871.

Fountain Square is just a few blocks from the Backstage District, Cincinnati's arts district, so many people congregate at the square before or after theater and music shows.

Address: Fifth Street and Vine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio

Official site: http://myfountainsquare.com/

Train enthusiasts will want to ride the rails along the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Train route. This historical route winds its way from the Rockside Station in Independence down to the Northside Station in Akron.

Along the way, the train follows the Cuyahoga River through Cuyahoga Valley National Park . This area is ideal for spotting wildlife, including deer and eagles.

Different seating options are available, and range from regular seats in coach and an upper dome car right through to an executive class car.

For a romantic rail trip, take the evening dinner train. On this excursion, you are served a full four-course meal in the beautiful domed dining car. Another great trip is to take the train in the fall, when the leaves in the Cuyahoga Valley burst into a riot of oranges, yellows, and reds.

A fun activity in the summer is to ride the train one way with your bike and then cycle back from your chosen stop along the Towpath trail to the beginning.

Official site: https://www.cvsr.org/

Looking for the freshest ingredients for that special dinner? Look no further than the West Side Market in Cleveland. Housed in a historical building and running since 1912, this market is a foodie must-do when in town.

You'll find over 100 vendors selling everything from cupcakes to the freshest seafood in town. All are small operators and are quick to offer helpful suggestions on what to do with a particular cut of meat, a vegetable, or spice.

Stay for breakfast or lunch at the West Side Market Café, which uses local ingredients to make specialties like Lake Erie walleye sandwiches and pierogis that are unique to the Cleveland area.

More on Ohio

8 Epic Train Rides In Ohio That Will Give You An Unforgettable Experience

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

The nostalgia good old-fashioned train rides in Ohio can bring is truly special. Scenic train rides in Ohio can bring us back to a time when we took the time to watch what was outside our window and simply enjoy the journey. If you’re looking to remember what it’s like to enjoy the journey and tour Ohio in a unique way—or you just want to give the family a special dinner experience they’ll never forget—then traveling Ohio’s scenic railways is the perfect way to do just that. The following are train rides in Ohio that will give you an unforgettable experience.

Related Stories

Float The Day Away On This Canal Boat Tour In Ohio

This Ohio Train Ride Leads To The Most Stunning Fall Foliage You've Ever Seen

Board The North Pole Express At The Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation For A One-Of-A-Kind Light Display

What do you think of these train rides in Ohio? Have you ever enjoyed any of these scenic train rides in Ohio? Know of any other scenic railroads in Ohio? Whatever it is, tell us!

Scenic train rides in Ohio aren’t the only option for enjoying the state’s stunning landscape. There are quite a few others, including the most beautiful hikes in Ohio . And for more local adventures, be sure to check out Airbnb experiences !

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Want more Ohio in your inbox?

Get the latest on things to see, do, and eat around Ohio!

Thank you! You will receive your first email soon.

An error occured.

More to Explore

Train rides in ohio.

What is the most scenic town in Ohio?

Of all the beautiful towns in Ohio, Peninsula ranks pretty high up there. A tiny village, Peninsula is unknown to many, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth knowing about.

• Absolutely beautiful, the tiny town is nestled between Cleveland and Akron
• Peninsula is surrounded by the Cuyahoga Valley National Park
• Natural beauty and gorgeous vistas are just a few of the reasons to love this small town
• Despite its small size, the town boasts lots of history and plenty to see and do, including an array of unique shops and eateries.

What's the most beautiful hike in Ohio?

When talking about the most beautiful hikes in Ohio, there are two locations that immediately come to mind.

It’s nearly impossible to not mention the Buckeye Trail .

• Encircling the state, it’s often revered as the best hike in Ohio and one of the best hikes in the U.S.
• Living up to its reputation, the iconic trek spans 1,444 miles and features tons of incredible sights, including Old Man’s Cave and Caesar Creek State Park.

The Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve also offers some great hiking opportunities.

• There are two loop trails within the preserve. The trails can be hiked alone, or combined for a total distance of 4.75 miles.
• Along the way, hikers are treated to a variety of flora, a scenic stream valley, forested areas, and an incredible cliff-top vista, which is particularly stunning in the fall.

Related Articles

• Relive Your Favorite Top Gun Movie Moment When You Take Flight On This Ohio Aerial Adventure
• Explore, Dine, And Spend The Night At This Charming Historic Village In Ohio
• Hike To A Hidden Waterfall, Then Dine At A Waterfall-Themed Restaurant All At This Underrated Ohio State Park
• The Beautiful Ohio Library That Looks Like Something From A Book Lover's Dream
• Grab A Bike And Hit The Trails Because Ohio Has The Most U.S. Bike Miles In The Country
• Rent A Pedal Boat And Cruise Around This Little-Known Lake In Ohio
• The Pumpkin Patch Express Train Ride In Ohio Is Scenic And Fun For The Whole Family
• This Miniature Train Ride In Ohio Is An Adorable Adventure For The Whole Family

Explore Ohio

• Arts & Entertainment
• Farms & Wildlife
• Fun Adventures
• Shops & Boutiques
• Sights & Landmarks

Nearly 200-year-old piece of Ohio’s transportation history uncovered at state park

OREGONIA, Ohio (WXIX) - A group helping preserve the Little Miami State Park discovered a nearly 200-year-old piece of Ohio’s transportation history.

Friends of Little Miami State Park stumbled upon a long iron rail in February.

Crew chief Rick Forrester says the team was removing invasive honeysuckle from the Little Miami Bike Trail when the piece of history was found.

“We were chainsawing the honeysuckle down, and as it turns out, my chainsaw hit something on the ground,” Forrester recalls.

Turns out, the chainsaw hit a railroad rail.

“We started digging around and this thing kept going and going and going,” explained Forrester.

The iron rail went for 32 feet, which is about 7 feet shy of being a full-sized rail.

“We looked at this thing, and said, ‘That thing is going to weigh a ton,” Forrester said.

The rail weighs more than 1,500 pounds. It was part of the Little Miami Railroad, one of the first railroads in Ohio, according to the Ohio Historical Connection.

Friends of The Little Miami State Park President Dick Feldmann says the railroad was just more than 70 miles long, connecting Cincinnati to Springfield, Ohio.

The railroad was used to transport “goods, materials and mail up and down Little Miami River Valley,” Feldmann explained.

By 1980, Feldmann says, the railroad was abandoned. In 1983, a new design picked up steam.

“We got the Rails to Trails funding to convert the old railway path into a bike path,” Feldmann says.

The Rails to Trails Program in Ohio was one of the first in the country.

It was part of that transition involving the removal of at least 50 miles of railroad tracks to create the pathway at Little Miami State Park.

Unclear on how this piece of rail was missed, Feldmann says they are now working to designate it as a historical marker so Ohio history can continue chugging along.

[Learn more about Little Miami State Park]

Feldmann thinks more historical artifacts may be hidden in the state park.

He encourages anyone who may stumble upon a piece of history to contact the Little Miami State Park through their website.

See a spelling or grammar error in our story? Please click here to report it .

Do you have a photo or video of a breaking news story? Send it to us here with a brief description.

Copyright 2024 WXIX. All rights reserved.

Police identify 18-year-old killed in Hyde Park shooting

Man shot in NKY subdivision, suspect in custody

Parents react to new Ohio law on cell phones in schools

Medical helicopter responds to Clermont County crash

Cincinnati-based restaurant opens 10th location in Tri-State

Latest news.

FCC wins sixth straight game to tie club record

Local woman writes children’s book to help kids understand autism

Police: Vehicle crashes into home in Hamilton

Cincinnati Children’s Hospital hosts annual Cincinnati Walks for Kids

New initiative to enhance Northern Kentucky's bike trails

• SI SWIMSUIT
• SI SPORTSBOOK

What Stands Out About The Browns 2024 Schedule?

Spencer german | may 16, 2024.

As the NFL's schedule release day has come and gone, now comes the fun part: dissecting it.

Based on opponents alone, the Browns schedule is expected to be one of the toughest in the NFL . A tough schedule can be made more challenging though depending on where certain stretches of games fall.

For example, Cleveland is one of four teams slated to play two games after a shortened week with Thursday night matchup, one with the Steelers in Wek12 and the other against the Bengals in Week 16. Those two games makeup two of the four prime time contests on the Browns schedule this year, which is something fans can look forward to.

Spencer German and Cole McDaniel break down every inch of the Browns schedule, from a home opener against America's team, a trip to Las Vegas several weeks later, a potential late December visit from Taylor Swift and four key AFC North games over the last seven weeks. Hear what they think lies ahead for the Browns throughout a 2024 season with lofty expectations.

---------------------------------------

You May Also Like:

Cleveland Browns Top Travel Destinations On The 2024 Schedule

Weeks 7, 8, And 9 Will Set The Table For The 2024 Cleveland Browns

When Could Browns Welcome Taylor Swift To Cleveland?

Browns QB Deshaun Watson Unveils New Tattoo And Curiously Leaves One Space Blank

Just How Difficult Is the Browns Schedule In 2024?

No Cheap Seats For Browns Home Opener

Tom Brady To Make His Broadcast Debut at Cleveland Browns Stadium

SPENCER GERMAN

Spencer German is a contributor to the Northeast Ohio cluster of sites, including Cavs Insider, Cleveland Baseball Insider and most notably Browns Digest. He also works as a fill-in host on Cleveland Sports Radio, 92.3 The Fan, one of the Browns radio affiliate stations in Cleveland. Despite being a Cleveland transplant, Spencer has enjoyed making Northeast Ohio home ever since he attended college locally at John Carroll University, where he graduated in 2013.

Follow @Spencito_

Click Here for FREE Subscription

Ohio Attractions

Places to go in Ohio

Northeast Ohio

Southeast Ohio

Central Ohio

Northwest Ohio

Southwest Ohio

Special Events in Ohio

January Fests

February Fests

March Fests

April Fests

August Fests

September Fests

October Fests

November Fests

December Fests

Things to do in Ohio

Festivals & Events Calendar & Guide

Tons of Miscellaneous Fun

Museums and Halls of Fame

Ohio State Parks

Historic Ohio Homes Villages and Farms

Historical Sites, Museums and Landmarks

Art Museums and Botanical Gardens

Tours & Demonstrations

Trains, Planes, Auto & Maritime Attractions

Performing Arts

Great Ohio Towns

Shopping Unique Shoppes

Wineries & Vineyards

Restaurants & Eateries

Lodging & Getaways

The OhioTraveler Drive-In

Top Attractions

Travel Blogs

Archived Stories

FREE Visitors Guides

The Current Monthly Edition

• Appalachian Ohio
• Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB
• Discover Mohican
• Explore Hocking Hills
• Explore Scioto
• Greater Grand Lake Region
• Historic Roscoe Village
• Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
• Lehman’s
• Marietta/Washington County CVB
• Miami County VCB
• Millers Furniture & Bakery
• Niederman Family Farm
• Ohio Amish Country
• Ohio Caverns
• Ohio Festivals & Events Assoc.
• Sandusky County Visitors Bureau
• Travel Tuscarawas County
• Visit Belmont County
• Visit Chillicothe
• Visit Coshocton
• Visit Greater Lima
• Visit Grove City
• Visit Marion Ohio
• Visit Medina County
• Visit Sidney Ohio
• Visit Steubenville
• Yoder’s Bakery & Furniture

3 dead, 3 wounded in early morning shooting in Ohio’s capital

The Associated Press

May 18, 2024, 5:25 PM

• Share This:
• share on facebook
• share on threads
• share on linkedin
• share on email

COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) — Three people died and three others were wounded in an early morning shooting in Ohio’s capital over the weekend, authorities said.

Columbus police said the shooting was reported shortly before 3 a.m. Saturday in the Italian Village neighborhood north of downtown, with what may have been semi-automatic or automatic gunfire and cars “taking off.”

Deputy Chief Gregory Bodker told reporters that officers arriving two minutes later found a “very chaotic scene” with six people shot. Two men were pronounced dead at the scene, and a third man died at a hospital, police said. They were identified later Saturday as 27-year-old Malachi Pee, 26-year-old Garcia Dixon Jr. and 18-year-old Da’ondre Bullock.

Three other people were taken to hospitals, where one was in critical condition and two others were stable, Bodker said. Police said all were expected to survive.

Investigators are talking to several witnesses who were cooperating, Bodker said. There is a bar on the corner nearby, but it wasn’t immediately known whether anyone involved had been a patron of the establishment, he said.

No suspects were immediately identified. The motive for the shooting wasn’t immediately known, and it was unclear how many people were involved, Bodker said. The Franklin County sheriff’s office was using a drone to help document the large crime scene, where police were collecting evidence and video.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

Related News

Giuliani becomes final defendant served indictment among 18 accused in Arizona fake electors case

Vegas tourism authority sponsoring each Aces player for $100K in 2024 and 2025; WNBA investigating.

Member of Israel’s War Cabinet says he’ll quit the government June 8 unless there’s a new war plan

Recommended.

Prince George's Co. schools investigate teacher after students unbraid his hair in viral video

DC man sentenced to 13 years for shooting teen in face, back

Federal government cleaning up old landfill in Loudoun County

Related categories:.