There are so many places to visit in the Buckeye State, Ohio. From the shores of Lake Erie to the north, to the Appalachian Mountains to the south, there are miles of art, adventure, fun, and frivolity to be found throughout. A long road trip through Ohio offers fun for everyone. An SUV or minivan rental makes for roomy transportation as you visit these travel destinations. 

#1. Marblehead Lighthouse

Website: https://www.marbleheadlighthouseohio.org/

Map: 110 Lighthouse Dr, Marblehead, OH 43440

If you love breathtaking scenery and maritime history, Marblehead Lighthouse State Park is a travel destination for you. Sitting on the shore of Lake Erie, it was built in 1821 and is the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes. You can enjoy a taste of history and a unique experience as you climb the 77 steps to the top of the lighthouse tower, and visit Keeper’s House Museum next door.

#2. German Village

Website: https://germanvillage.com/

Map: German Village Society, 588 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215

This Columbus, Ohio community has a long and hard-fought history. Settled primarily by Germans in the 1800s, it became a thriving mixed-use neighborhood of lovely brick homes and booming business. German brewing tradition came with the original immigrants to the new country, along with other crafts and trades. In 1960 Frank Fetch started what became the German Village Society. You can now enjoy European living along the brick streets and sidewalks of German Village. Specialty shops like butchers, florists, and bookstores are just a few examples of the charm you will find in the German Village.

#3. Hocking Hills State Park

Website: https://www.hockinghills.com/parks.html

Map: 19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138

The Hocking Hills area of Ohio includes forests, caves, waterfalls, plunge pools, and beautiful flora. Enjoy the natural beauty of Cedar Falls and then hike down the Buckeye Trail to Ash Cave or Old Man’s Cave- one of the most popular attractions of Hocking Hills State Park, so named because of the hermit who lived there in the late 1700s. If you are fond of fishing, visit Lake Logan before you head to Cincinnati.

#4. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Website: http://cincinnatizoo.org/

Map: 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220

Next up on your road trip itinerary is one of Ohio’s best travel destinations for families, the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. In addition to exciting habitats like Cat Canyon, Dragons, and Manatee Springs, the zoo also offers a carousel and a train that tours the zoo, providing unique views of the habitats. You will love touring the beauty of the Botanical Gardens. Some of the innovative plots at this destination are the pollinator garden, the aquaponics exhibit, and the “Green Roof” atop the giraffe habitat.

#5. Coney Island Park

Website: https://coneyislandpark.com/

Map: 6201 Kellogg Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45230

This gem on the Ohio River is bursting with exciting things for people of all ages. Coney Island Park includes the Sunlite Water Adventure, a waterpark beside the Amusement Park. The Park itself offers a variety of rides, attractions, and a grove for picnicking. There is also mini-golf, live shows, music, and dining. Enjoy both the waterpark and amusement park at Coney Island.