Ohio Travel Guide
My Home in the Heartland…
Ohio is special. You want to know why? Well, I (Megan) grew up in Northeast Ohio on a farm. While I always had a natural curiosity of what else was out in the world, there’s something truly special about Ohio and what it has to offer as a state.
Home to cities like Cleveland, Akron, Columbus, and Cincinnati, each one unique in their own right. Ohio has a few claim to fame including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland and the Football Hall of Fame in Canton.
As far as natural attractions, Ohio is also on the Great Lakes’ Lake Erie waterfront. You’ll find fun summer getaways like Put-In-Bay or Kelleys Island to caverns, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and the scenic beauty of places like Hocking Hills to the Appalachian Foothills in the southeastern portion of the state.
Ohio also has one of the country’s largest Amish countries (home to the world’s largest cuckoo clock!) where you can get a taste of rural life and Amish culture and handmade goods.
You’ll also see plenty of farmland and small towns while driving through the state.
Quick Tips for Visiting Ohio
When is the best time to visit Ohio?
The best time to visit Ohio totally depends on what you want to do.
The summer months offer the most activities including enjoying all the outdoor attractions and enjoying places along Lake Erie from the islands to the waterfront and attractions like Cedar Point amusement park in Sandusky.
Fall brings gorgeous foliage colors across the state, particularly in regions like Hocking Hills and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Winter (December to February) in Ohio brings colder temperatures and occasional snowfall, particularly in northern and central parts of the state. Areas of Northeast Ohio are affected by Lake Effect snow.
In spring, you can enjoy blooming flowers and lush greenery.
How Much Time Do I need in Ohio?
To experience Ohio fully, plan to spend at least 5-7 days exploring the state on a road trip. This timeframe allows you to visit one or two major cities as well as sites in between.
If you’re only visiting a city, like Cleveland you could easily only spend a weekend and cover a lot of the highlights and get a feel of what the destination has to offer.
What is Ohio most famous for?
Ohio is known as the “Birthplace of Aviation,” holding historic significance as the home of the Wright brothers, who pioneered powered flight in Dayton.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, showcasing the state’s influence on American music history.
Columbus, the state capital, is famous for Ohio State University and the hardcore fanbase of its sports teams, specifically the college football team.
Outside the cities, Ohio’s natural beauty shines through destinations like Hocking Hills State Park, Lake Erie, and Cuyahoga National Park along with cultural areas like Amish Country.
What’s the best way to get around Ohio?
The best way to get around Ohio is by car. Even if you’re just visiting a city like Cleveland, it’s recommended you have a car as many things are driving distance away worth seeing.
Must Try Food in Ohio
A must-try is Scott’s famous sweet treat, a Buckeye Candy. It’s basically a homemade Reese’s peanut butter cup, but better! It’s a peanut butter center dipped in chocolate resembling the nut of the buckeye tree.
Cincinnati is famous for its own style of chili! Cincinnati Chili is sweeter and spicier than traditional versions, often served over spaghetti or hot dogs with cheese and onions. Skyline Chili is the most famous chain followed by Gold Star.
Lake Erie Perch is another regional specialty found along the Great Lakes. It’s typically breaded and fried.
In cities like Cleveland and Toledo, pierogies are popular, filled with potatoes, cheese, and onions, and either pan-fried or boiled.
In Amish Country, you’ll find classic dishes tying back to the German and Dutch heritage as well as dishes like homemade pies, shoofly pie, and traditional Amish-style fried chicken.
Also, Graeter’s Ice Cream is another local favorite. It started in 1870 in the streets of Cincinnati and is now available in multiple states.
