- Destination -

Ohio

Ohio might not always top the bucket-list charts, but don’t underestimate the Buckeye State. From charming small towns and scenic lakefronts to roller coasters, football, and foodie hotspots, Ohio packs a lot into its borders. You can hike waterfalls in Hocking Hills, stroll historic streets in German Village, or catch a sunset over Lake Erie. Whether you’re craving a cozy Midwest getaway or an action-packed city weekend, Ohio delivers the best of both worlds — laid-back charm and endless adventure.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ohio is May through October, when the weather is warm, the parks are lush, and festivals fill every weekend. Summer (June–August) is perfect for Lake Erie beach days, amusement parks like Cedar Point, and lively outdoor concerts. Fall (September–October) steals the show with colorful foliage and cozy small-town vibes — especially around Amish Country and Hocking Hills. Winters can be cold and snowy, but if you love holiday lights and fewer crowds, December is also a great time to visit.

Top Things to Do

Top Things to Do in Ohio

  • Explore Hocking Hills State Park — waterfalls, caves, and hiking trails galore.

  • Ride record-breaking coasters at Cedar Point in Sandusky.

  • Visit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland.

  • Wander the Short North Arts District in Columbus for boutique shopping and dining.

  • Experience the Amish Country in Holmes County for a slower pace and homemade treats.

  • Cheer on the Cincinnati Reds or Cleveland Browns at a home game.

  • Take a scenic drive along Lake Erie’s shoreline and stop in Geneva-on-the-Lake or Marblehead.

  • Don’t miss quirky attractions like the American Sign Museum in Cincinnati or Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio’s only national park.

Blogs & Itineraries

Travel information

Getting There 

Ohio is centrally located in the Midwest, making it easy to reach by air, car, or train. Major airports include Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), and Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Interstate highways like I-70, I-71, and I-75 connect the state to surrounding regions. Amtrak also operates limited train routes, while Greyhound and Megabus provide affordable bus options.

Travel Tips

  • Pack layers. Ohio weather can change fast — sunny one day, snowing the next in spring and fall.

  • Book Cedar Point tickets early. Summer weekends sell out quickly.

  • Visit midweek to avoid crowds at popular spots like Hocking Hills and Lake Erie beaches.

  • Try the local favorites — Skyline Chili in Cincinnati, Buckeye candies, and Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams in Columbus.

  • Plan a fall road trip. The scenic drives through Cuyahoga Valley and Hocking Hills are stunning in October.

Getting Around

Once you arrive, the easiest way to get around Ohio is by car. Cities like Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati have public transportation systems (COTA, RTA, Metro), but many of the state’s best attractions are scattered across small towns and rural areas. Renting a car offers the most flexibility — especially if you plan to road trip through Amish Country, Hocking Hills, or along Lake Erie.

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From slow mornings on the coast to stepping into history in Zona Colonial, and unexpected adventure everywhere in between, this trip ended up being so much more than we planned

And if you happen to be there at the right time… Humpback whale season in Samaná Bay is something you don’t forget. This is your sign to go beyond the resort and see what else the island has to offer ✨ 

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We were just passing through the Dominican Republic when locals kept mentioning “Carnival” and within minutes, it was very clear something big was happening.✨

At the time, I didn’t fully understand what we had stumbled into. But after getting home and doing some research, I realized this is the birthplace of Dominican Carnival… and one of the most traditional, historic celebrations in the country.

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Read the full experience on the blog ✈️

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My Exact Packing List

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Embark. Explore. Eat.

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