At the heart of the Great Lakes region, Ohio promises spectacular scenery as well as bustling cities with fabulous food and cultural attractions aplenty. With the Appalachian Mountains to the south-east, Lake Erie to the north and numerous state parks — fantastic in the fall — scattered around the state, there’s heaps for families, couples or groups to experience. Accommodation options range from rural B&Bs to swish city hotels, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Hide away at one of the best places to stay in Ohio, or pick a hotel in the centre of the city for a food, sports and history-focused trip.
Columbus, the state capital, is famed for its breweries, gourmet eateries and heritage sites. It’s also a brilliant choice for families, with some excellent child-friendly attractions — including a Legoland Discovery Centre. Charming Cincinnati, on the other hand, has a hip, artsy feel, as well as impressive European-inspired architecture and lots to see and do.
Cleveland, on the shores of Lake Erie, fuses cultural attractions — the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Great Lakes Science Centre — with a more outdoorsy vibe. Go fishing and bird-watching on Lake Erie, kick back at the beach, or take thrill-seeking friends or family members to the acclaimed Cedar Point Amusement Park.
Venture beyond Ohio’s cities to discover more than 70 state parks, 130 state nature preserves, and a plethora of creeks and lakes. You’ll find opportunities to go hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, rafting and fishing. The landscapes of the north-west are gentler, whilst the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, in the south-east, offer a further challenge to intrepid explorers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Whether you’re dreaming of micro-breweries, live music nights and guided city tours or nature-focused escapes, the best places to stay in Ohio promise something for everyone. Hotels and inns book up quickly during the summer and autumn months, so plan your trip well in advance.
