Are you looking for the best things to do in Ohio? 

First of all, Ohio is a Midwestern state known for its farmland and beautiful forests. This interesting region is worth a mention for your American itinerary. You'll find plenty of fun activities in Ohio, such as amusement parks to enjoy, water sports for getting wet and wild, and national parks where you can just relax and enjoy the landscape.

This article covers things to do in Ohio so you can start planning your trip to Ohio with a focus on two of the state's most interesting cities, Columbus and Cleveland.

Things To Do in Ohio

Columbus

Columbus is the capital of Ohio. Mainly a university city, it is known for being innovative and forward-thinking. If you love museums, you'll find a few in this city. Art lovers can watch a performance at the Wexner Center for Arts or catch one of the film showings, which are perfect for those evenings when you're solo.

Other things to do in Columbus Ohio is to take a trip to the Wyandotte Winery, the ideal place for those wanting to try local wines. You also don't want to miss a chance to visit the Franklin Park Conservatory. Here, you can relax in the gardens and view the seasonal displays.

Luckily, Columbus has plenty of options for accommodations. Solo travellers can stay in a bed and breakfast, choose from hundreds of Columbus hotels or motels, or even opt for a hostel bed if you're on a budget. If you prefer the outdoors, you could consider camping or renting a cabin in a state park.

Best attractions in Columbus

  • Ohio Caverns
  • The tomb of President Harding
  • Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
  • Topiary Park
  • National Museum of the United States Air Force

Things To Do in Ohio

Cleveland

Cleveland is one of the largest cities in Ohio, and it's located in the northeastern part of the state. Music lovers will appreciate the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which shows the history of this genre. Even the building itself is very rock and roll!

Cleveland is also a good spot for outdoor activities, as the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is just 20 minutes away. Things to do in Cleveland Ohio include taking a boat cruise to one of the tiny islands in Lake Erie, Or just stay in the city and admire art from around the world at the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Best Attractions in Cleveland

  • The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
  • The West Side Market
  • Neil Armstrong's First Flight
  • The Centre of the World
  • The Christmas Museum (open all year round)
  • Squire's Castle
Things To Do in Ohio

Ohio Theatre

Other Things To Do in Ohio

Head south for the hills. This is where the Allegheny Mountains are situated, and it's a popular area for hikers and climbers. You can also experience the stunning views in Cincinnati Findley State Park, a city with a pretty fountain square that's ideal for dining alfresco (one of the things to do in Cincinnati).

Explore coal mining towns, lose yourself in Wayne National Forest, or visit an Amish farm for some culture. Adventurous solo travellers can embrace their inner child at an amusement park. You can even go on safari in Ohio. Head to Clinton and pretend you're in Africa while seeing the park's 400 animals on a drive-through safari.

If you love history, head to the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historic Park. If you love hiking, explore the Hocking Hills State Park with its caves and hiking trails. You can camp overnight to make the most of your time.

Watch the sunset at Huntington Beach, go train spotting at the EnterTRAINment Junction, or enjoy a coffee alfresco. Just don't forget to check the details before you go in case some of the attractions have seasonal dates or times.

Whether you're into history, national parks, or outdoor adventures, there are plenty of things to do in Ohio for every solo traveller.

Things To Do in Ohio

Ohio Tours

Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide helps you to find top-rated day tours and activities in Ohio. Choose from a brewery tour with tastings, a Cincinnati guided walking ghost tour, or a Cleveland city tour. Some of the tours require a minimum of 2 people, but there are several to book as a solo and it’s really simple to use. Just check the reviews, price and availability then book online. Read my Get Your Guide review or click the link below for all their tours. * Check all Get Your Guide tours, prices and availability

Viator – Viator are similar to Get Your Guide. They are an American company and a tour platform with more than 345,000 tours and worldwide activities. They also offer a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ticket in Cleveland, a Cincinnati indoor skydiving experience, and hiking and biking island trails. Read my Viator review or click the link for all their tours.

* Check all Viator tours, prices and availability

Things To Do in Ohio

Accommodation in Ohio

There is a variety of accommodations in Ohio, whether you’re searching for hotels, Inns, suites or apartments (condos). Plus, there’s Airbnb which offers rental accommodation in Ohio. You can stay in a private room in a local's house or rent their whole apartment.

All of the accommodations below have been recommended by solo female travellers and come with a Solo Female Friendly endorsement. 

* To book, check prices or availability for all accommodation in Ohio

For those who prefer the freedom of the open road, consider hiring an RV and driving yourself around the USA, stopping in Ohio on the way. As a solo traveller, you’ll have plenty of space for your accommodation, your own transport and possibly a kitchenette too.

RVshare allows you to compare RV rates from different brands and find local owners near you. In most cases, they deliver to a specific location or park, so the home-away-from-home will be ready and waiting for you on arrival. Plus, you can bring your pet! Prices start from $75 a night. * Book a campervan with RVshare

Where to stay in Ohio

The Wayfaring Buckeye Hostel – Columbus

For those on a budget, the Wayfaring Buckeye Hostel is a great choice. The staff make you feel really welcome, which is ideal for us solos. You can bike your way around the area with the free bicycles that they provide or just choose to soak in the outdoor hot tub.

There are board games to challenge the other guests to, or you can just watch movies or TV in the shared lounge. The fully equipped kitchen allows you to cook your own meals, plus there’s an outdoor pit and barbecue area.

Choose from a single bed in a 3 or 5-bed dormitory room, a double room, or a deluxe king room.

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham – Cambridge

If you’re searching for a quiet, comfortable hotel, the Microtel Inn & Suites is a 2 star Inn in Cambridge. For those hiring a car for Ohio, the Inn is easy to find and is situated up a hill providing great views from some of the rooms.

There are several restaurants nearby as well as a gym so you can maintain your fitness regime whilst you’re here. The rooms are very clean and include a continental breakfast within the rate.

Choose from a queen room, a deluxe queen room, or a queen studio suite.

Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – Springfield

Located in Springfield, the Country Inn & Suites is a 3 star property with a heated indoor pool and jacuzzi. The rooms are comfortable, and if you need to do any work whilst you’re here, each one has a work desk as well as a flat-screen TV to keep you company in the evenings.

The rate includes a good buffet breakfast. Choose from a queen room, a king room or a one-bedroom king suite.

Have you been to Ohio? I'd love to know your comments below

Frequently asked questions about Ohio

  • What Ohio is known for? Ohio is mainly known for Cleveland, its main city, which is famous for the Cleveland Indians baseball team, music and unique museums.
  • What food is known in Ohio? Cincinnati Chili is one of the signature dishes of Ohio. However, you can also try buckeyes, hot browns and more.
  • What cool things does Ohio have? Ohio has plenty of museums and beautiful gardens that are worth visiting.

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