Places to see in Ohio vacation sights in Ohio Explore things to do in Ohio

Sometimes you just want to get out and explore. We try to strike a good balance of places that you will really enjoy. Finding ideas for family friendly outings, or interesting places to go in Ohio with your friends, both are at your fingertips here with America Top 10. We aim to give you plenty of ideas without you having to do all the research. That way you can easily decide if you want to explore Ohio sites or check out the sites in another state.

You have also heard how it is becoming a lot more popular to have staycations (where you stay home instead of going to far off places) and discover new and interesting places in the near vicinity. We try to make that easier for you. Check out the sites in Ohio that have become local favorites easily with our site.

We hope that we have provided you plenty of choices in Ohio whether this is a new area for you or your own back yard. Something a little different from the typical amusement park. If you really loved somewhere but don’t see them on our list let us know, we are always looking to improve our lists and we can only do that with your help.

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

Cincinnati, OH

The Zoological Society of Cincinnati was founded in 1873 and officially opened its doors in 1875, making the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden the second oldest Zoo in the United States. The Zoo’s original animal collection was very small, originally consisting of just eight monkeys, two grizzly bears, three deer, six raccoons, two elk, a buffalo, a hyena, a tiger, an alligator, a circus elephant, and over four hundred birds, including a talking crow. The Zoo was founded on 65 acres in the middle of the city, and since then has acquired some of the surrounding blocks and several reserves in Cincinnati’s suburbs

Cox Arboretum and Gardens MetroPark

Dayton, OH

American Sign Museum

Cincinnati, OH

The American Sign Museum is the premier institution for preserving historic signs and promoting the sign industry’s contributions to commerce, culture and the American landscape. Experience the American Sign Museum with family, friends and coworkers. Better yet, entertain your guests at a private, ASM-hosted event.

Cleveland Museum of Natural History

Cleveland, OH

At the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, they believe that discovery starts with you. Explore their exhibits, meet their wild animals, take a hike, join a class, all while creating meaningful memories. They make science relatable by cultivating your curiosity. When you visit the Museum, you’ll have the opportunity to delve deep into the past in their dinosaur hall, discover the outer reaches of the Universe in Shafran Planetarium and experience natural wonders in outdoor galleries. Children can experience hands-on learning in Smead Discovery Center, where the motto is “please touch!” Traveling exhibits bring the world to Cleveland with an ever-changing variety of new subjects to explore.

Swan Creek Preserve

Toledo, OH

Like any metropolitan area, much of the Toledo region’s population is concentrated in the city of Toledo. Many who do not live in the city, spend their working days in downtown Toledo. Swan Creek Preserve provides a pleasant, pastoral respite from city life for people who look to the park to connect with nature.

A Christmas Story House and Museum

Cleveland, OH

A Christmas Story House, now restored to its movie splendor, is open year round to the public for tours. Directly across the street from the house is the official A Christmas Story House Museum, which features original props, costumes and memorabilia from the film, as well as hundreds of rare behind-the-scenes photos. Among the props and costumes are the toys from the Higbee’s window, Randy’s snowsuit, the chalkboard from Miss Shields’ classroom and the family car. After reliving A Christmas Story at Ralphie’s house, do not forget to visit the museum gift shop for your own Major Award Leg Lamp and other great movie memorabilia

Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park

Galloway, OH

Battelle Darby Creek features more than 7,000 acres of forest, prairies and wetlands. It stretches along 13 miles of the Big and Little Darby creeks, both State and National Scenic Rivers. Besides the areas surrounding the creeks, there are also over 1,600 acres of restored wetlands and prairies. Bison have been reintroduced to the park and roam freely within two enclosed pastures.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum

Cleveland, OH

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Inc. is the nonprofit organization that exists to educate visitors, fans and scholars from around the world about the history and continuing significance of rock and roll music. It carries out this mission through its operation of an excellent museum that collects, preserves, exhibits and interprets this art form and through its library and archives as well as its educational programs

Great Lakes Science Center

Cleveland, OH

GLSC encourages curiosity through hundreds of hands-on exhibits, the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, DOME Theater and the Steamship William G. Mather.

Cleveland Museum of Art

Cleveland, OH

The Cleveland Museum of Art was founded in 1913 “for the benefit of all the people forever.” They strive to help the broadest possible audience understand and engage with the world’s great art while honoring the highest aesthetic, intellectual, and professional standards. They are proud to be one of the world’s most distinguished comprehensive art museums and one of northeastern Ohio’s principal civic and cultural institutions.