Best Day Trips from Columbus Ohio: Top Places to Visit Nearby

Columbus is full of things to do, but if you have an extra day (or two) to spare, you can use it as a home base for the best day trips from Columbus Ohio, including charming small towns, scenic parks, and even big-city adventures. Here are my favorite day trips — all easy to do in a single day and packed with charm, great food, and memorable experiences.

1. Sugarcreek – “Little Switzerland of Ohio”

Drive Time: ~1 hour 30 minutes northeast

Sugarcreek is one of the most charming small towns in Ohio and an ideal day trip from Columbus. Known as the “Little Switzerland of Ohio,” it’s full of Amish Country charm, horse-and-buggies on the roads, and plenty to keep you busy for a full day.

Top Things to Do:

• See the world’s largest cuckoo clock in downtown Sugarcreek — time your visit for the top of the hour to catch the clock’s little show.

• Browse the shops for homemade jams, baked goods, and hand-crafted items.

• Take a quick drive to one of the nearby wineries like Breitenbach Wine Cellars or Baltic Mill Winery — even if you don’t drink, the grounds are beautiful and many have great food options.

Where to Eat:

• Rebecca’s Bistro for brunch — try the Creamed Eggs on sourdough or the Stuffed French Toast.

• Park Street Pizza for lunch — thick, chewy crust, crispy pepperonis, gooey cheese bread, and a fresh berry salad that balances it all out.

Tip: If you love unique stays, consider booking a night at Dwellbox Treebox Stays, which are cozy shipping-container cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows, outdoor tubs, and fireplaces. Learn more in my full guide to Sugarcreek if you want to spend more than a day exploring.

2. Kidron – Amish Country Charm

Drive Time: ~1 hour 45 minutes northeast

Kidron is a smaller Amish town but perfect if you want a slower pace and a few quirky stops.

Top Things to Do:

• Visit Lehman’s Hardware Store, a massive, fascinating shop selling everything from non-electric appliances to classic kitchen gear and nostalgic toys.

• Stop at Heini’s Cheese Chalet to sample dozens of cheeses — you can taste your way through almost their entire selection.

Where to Eat:
Pack snacks from Columbus or grab lunch in nearby Wooster or Sugarcreek before heading back.

Tip: Combine Kidron and Sugarcreek into one full day — they’re close enough to visit together if you start early.

3. Hocking Hills State Park – Outdoor Adventure

Drive Time: ~1 hour southeast

Hocking Hills is the ultimate escape from the city and a must-do if you love hiking, waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes.

Top Trails:

• Old Man’s Cave – Iconic rock formations, bridges, and waterfalls.

• Ash Cave – A massive horseshoe-shaped cave with a waterfall.

• Cedar Falls – Peaceful hike and a beautiful waterfall.

Where to Eat:
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s picnic areas or stop in Logan for a casual lunch or dinner after your hike.

Tip: Go early in the morning to beat the crowds, especially on weekends — the parking lots fill up fast. Wear good hiking shoes and bring water. If you’re staying in the city, check out my list of the top things to do in Columbus before heading out on your day trip.

4. Cleveland – Big City Energy

Drive Time: ~2 hours north

If you want a completely different vibe from Columbus, head to Cleveland for a day.

Top Things to Do:

• Explore West Side Market — a historic market with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to international foods.

• Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame — a must for music lovers.

• Walk through Ohio City and check out the breweries and shops.

Where to Eat:

• Grab lunch at Great Lakes Brewing Co. or sample pierogi and gyros from the West Side Market vendors.

• If you’re hungry on the way back to Columbus, make a pit stop for a massive burger at The Thurman Café.

Tip: If you can swing it, leave Columbus early and stay for sunset by Lake Erie — the view is gorgeous.

Final Thoughts

One of the best things about Columbus is how easy it is to escape for a day. Whether you want small-town charm, cheese tasting, outdoor adventure, or a big-city experience, you can find it all within a short drive. Pack some snacks, hit the road early, and make a day of it.