Columbus, OH, dishes out a youthful vibe and plenty of exciting attractions, including one of the best zoos in America. But after our last stay in Ohio’s capital and largest city, we also realized that it makes an excellent home base for exploring more of the Buckeye State. From cavernous state parks to historic towns & cities, embarking on some of the best day trips from Columbus, OH, is a fail-proof formula for the perfect holiday.
Within a two-hour drive of Columbus in any direction, we were able to find buzzing urbanscapes like Newark, classic American cities like Cleveland and Cincinnati, as well as laid-back tourist towns like Millersburg. Or, when we wanted to spend time exploring outdoor activities, we could venture to top-notch natural destinations like Hocking Hill State Park and Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Looking for some new destinations to add to your Ohio vacation bucket list? Amp up your itinerary with this list of our favorite Columbus side trips!
Hocking Hills State Park, OH
Avid backpackers are always looking for an escape from the city, even if it’s a city as incredible as Columbus. Well, not to fear, fellow hikers: Hocking Hills State Park is one of the best natural areas around, and it’ll only take you an hour by car to reach this top-notch outdoor destination from Columbus.
Hocking Hills State Park is divided into seven different hiking areas to explore, most of which are beginner-friendly and feature several cliffs and caves. Whether you want to crawl through the rockface like a true explorer or find a hidden waterfall where you can relax in solace for the afternoon, one of these routes is sure to inspire you to get outdoors.
Camping is one of the most popular ways to enjoy Hocking Hills State Park. Even those who prefer a “glamping” approach can enjoy an extended overnight stay at this Ohio state park.
RELATED: Our Favorite Places to Visit in Columbus, OH
Book one of six different cottages and cabins in the woods. Our favorite is the exclusive treehouse getaway, replete with a hot tub for soaking under the stars.
Cleveland, OH
Prefer to go city-hopping? Cleveland is one of our favorite cities in the region, and we think this global city on the shores of Lake Erie presents the ultimate urban road trip opportunity with an extra day in Ohio’s capital. The journey takes about two hours and 10 minutes from Columbus if you have a car rental. You can also take a bus for under $50.
You’ll want to embark as early as possible for this day trip. Even then, we have to warn you: It’s gonna be tight. We’ve visited Cleveland a couple of times over the years, and we always seem to find endless cool places to explore.
Rather than trying to jam everything into one day, we’d recommend staying a couple of nights.
Nonetheless, we realize that sometimes road trips are tight. Here are a couple of ideas for exploring Cleveland in just one day…
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a bucket-list attraction for music lovers and one of our favorite places to visit in Cleveland. Whenever we’re in Cleveland, we also relish the chance to wander around this world-famous museum and play our way through interactive exhibits and memorabilia from musical legends.
Seeking out the most popular exhibit at The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? We suggest heading to The Garage. On our last visit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, we loved the chance to pick up an instrument and record a family jam sesh. You can even design your own band logo!
After your brief taste of fame & fortune, stop at the historic West Side Market for your daily dose of coffee or to grab some cheese and charcuterie to bring back to Columbus. Located in the Ohio City neighborhood, the West Side Market is one of our favorite spots in the city, reminding us of all those wonderful markets we love to explore in Europe.
On your way to the West Side Market, take a side trip into Downtown Cleveland to Cleveland Public Square. We always love stopping here to admire the cool historic architecture.
Catch a glimpse of Cleveland’s most iconic building, the Terminal Tower. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a weekend in the spring and summer, you can gawk at amazing 360-degree views over downtown and Lake Erie from the 42nd-floor observation deck.
PRO TIP: To visit the Terminal Tower observation deck, you’ll need a little preplanning. Visitors must purchase their timed-entry tickets online ahead of time. (If there’s nothing listed at the day and time you’re looking for, it means it’s either sold out or the deck is closed.)
One of the more niche points of interest to visit in Cleveland, the Christmas Story House is sure to fill your heart with nostalgia and awaken your inner fanboy/fangirl. This real home, once used in the popular holiday movie, is now a beloved museum filled with set props like the family car and the iconic leg lamp.
Though the Christmas Story House is a wonderful attraction to visit during the Christmas season, we think it’s a fun little itinerary addition all year round!
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH
Looking for more outdoor bliss within reach of Ohio’s capital city? Cuyahoga Valley National Park is located just a little under two hours from Columbus. And let’s say that the USA should definitely consider this beautiful park a national treasure!
Depending on your activity level, we found several different ways to enjoy the Cuyahoga Valley National Park landscape. Hiking and biking trails are always open, and, in our opinion, Brandywine Falls is a must-see. If you’d rather hang back and relax, you can also have a picnic by the riverside.
Not in the mood for a great outdoor adventure, but still want to take in the natural beauty? We think the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is an ideal solution. When we were researching options for our Ohio road trip, we discovered that an over-21 crowd can even hop on board with a Grape Escape wine-tasting, Ales on Rails craft beer experience, or a themed Murder Mystery ride!
RELATED: Recommended Hotels & Areas to Stay in Columbus, OH
You can also combine the two exploration options by hiking the Towpath Trail in one direction and then taking the train back. Sit back in your executive class seat and watch the forest roll by; we think it’s the perfect way to reward yourself after an afternoon of vigorous exercise!
Cincinnati, OH
Cincinnati might as well be dubbed the official city for museum lovers because—whoa!—this city sure does have a lot of amazing ones. If spending the day perusing halls of ancient artifacts and specialized collections sounds like your idea of fun, you simply must make the journey to “The Queen City.”
As Cincy is one of our other favorite road trip stops when we’re headed south, we think the just over one-and-a-half-hour drive from Columbus to Cincinnati is quick and well worth the effort!
With a museum offering a deep dive into almost every subject, we guarantee you’ll find a gallery that piques your interest when perusing the coolest tourist attractions in Cincinnati. From the natural history exhibits of the Cincinnati Museum Center and the 19th-century paintings at the Cincinnati Art Museum to a more quirky collection like the American Sign Museum, we’ve found a ton of interesting museums on our visits to the “Queen City.”
When you’re not browsing the halls of Cincinnati’s best museums, grab some tickets to a Cincinnati Reds game at the Great American Ballpark. Between chowing down on stadium snacks and the thrill of cheering on the home team Cincinnati Reds with the raucous crowd, you’re guaranteed a good time here!
Millersburg, OH
Welcome to Amish Country! Exuding small-town, rural vibes, Millersburg is the perfect destination for a slow-tourism-style escape. The road trip to Millersburg will take you an hour and 45 minutes each way. But once you arrive, you’ll feel as if time slows down, and you’ll have all the time in the world to enjoy your new surroundings.
A trip to Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery is (literally) as sweet as pie. After you treat yourself to some of Millerburg’s finest Amish home cooking (yes, we’re talking homemade pies!), the whole family can go pumpkin picking, make new friends at the petting zoo, or hop on board a wagon ride.
A little bit of retail therapy never hurt anybody, and the specialty shops in Millersburg fill niches we don’t readily find elsewhere. From markets filled with jams and preserves to boutiques of handcrafted quilts, everything here is filled with a whole lot of heart and soul.
Now, what places do you need to target? When we rode through this cute town, we noticed that antiquing is quite popular here. And, if that’s your thing, we’d suggest searching out the Village Antique Emporium (113 W Jackson St). It’s loaded with cool antique furniture, military artifacts, and vintage signs.
Local cheeses are a delicacy you need to try while in Millersburg. Head 15 minutes outside of town to check out the Guggisberg Cheese Factory (5060 OH-557) for a taste of some of Millerburg’s finest Swiss cheese and flavored cheddar cheese.
Wayne National Forest, OH
Deep in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains lies the Wayne National Forest, which might well become your new favorite Midwest destination for outdoor tourism. The Wayne National Forest is located about one hour and 10 minutes from the heart of Columbus, leaving you plenty of time for adventuring after you step out of the car.
The most popular way to explore the Wayne National Forest is on foot. The preserve has over 20 trailheads and networks of footpaths. After you lace up those sturdy boots and douse yourself with bug spray, you’ll have your pick of routes.
Both Balancing Rock Trailhead and Hanging Rock Trailhead are popular choices, notable for their diverse range of scenery. Along the way, stumble upon waterfalls, cliffs, and lush old-growth woodlots.
If you’d like to explore differently, you’ll have a few options. The Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area presents the opportunity to navigate the park’s waterways with activities like boating, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Of course, if you don’t want to get out of your car, you can check out the famous Covered Bridge Scenic Byway, where you can discover 35 miles of epic landscapes and local landmarks from the comfort of your passenger seat.
Dayton, OH
Known as the “home of many inventions” and the “birthplace of aviation,” Dayton is a destination with a rich history and a creative spirit. Embarking on this one-hour and 10-minute road trip from Columbus, OH, promises you arts, museums, and an overarching industrial vibe.
If you’re fascinated by things that move, Dayton has two different museums that we think will really rev your engine. The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is home to over 350 planes, earning it the title of the world’s largest (and oldest) aviation museum.
While researching our Ohio road trip, we found another Dayton gem for aviation enthusiasts: Carillon Historical Park. The 65-acre open-air museum is jam-packed with cool historical attractions. None caught our eye more, however, than the 1905 Wright Flyer III, the original Wright Brothers flyer!
PRO TIP: After checking out all the cool goodies at Carillon Historical Park, we recommend grabbing a pint of craft beer and a bite at Carillon Brewing Company and Dayton BBQ Company. The brewery brews up historical beer recipes on-site and serves customers in traditional 1850s-era garb.
On the other hand, America’s Packard Museum – The Citizens Motorcar Co. is an original dealership that’s been converted into a showroom for the brand’s beautiful collection of classics. (Don’t be surprised if you leave with a hankering to restore a car back home!)
If you want to stay in Dayton a little later into the evening, immerse yourself in the narrative of the show at the impressive Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center or the quaint hall of the historic Victoria Theater.
Mohican State Park, OH
Another magical nature reserve within close driving distance from Columbus, Mohican State Park offers tourists a year-round hub for outdoor recreation. This natural playground is just one hour and ten minutes away, and it’s full of fun no matter the weather!
During your Mohican State Park adventure, we would recommend a stop at the site’s most popular natural landmarks, Clear Fork Gorge and Lyon’s Falls. On a hot summer day, water tubing down the Mohican State Scenic River is one of the most popular things for locals to do—and, from our experience, tourists almost always join in. Fishing, swimming, and canoeing are also possible here.
Traveling in winter? No need to skip over this road trip destination: There’s plenty to do at this Ohio state park, even when the temperature drops and white powder covers the ground.
Popular winter activities at Mohican State Park include snowshoeing the trails or taking a snowmobiling tour with a local outfitter.
PRO TIP: Although we’ve never visited in winter, we know firsthand how dicey driving conditions can get in the countryside in the northern part of the continent. Be sure to check out local road conditions before embarking on a winter trip to Mohican State Park.
Yellow Springs, OH
Known locally as the “Hippie Town of Ohio,” Yellow Springs is the destination for free spirits looking for a laid-back road trip to fill their itinerary. Just 50 minutes from Columbus, this town has an artsy undertone, tons of indie boutiques, and an emphasis on reconnecting with nature.
Yellow Springs has lots to do in town, but it’s truly a marvelous place to get out and explore nature as well. If you want to see the renowned Yellow Springs, the town’s namesake, stop at the Glen Helen Nature Preserve. This park spans over 1,000 acres, with hiking trails of varied difficulty and a raptor center with the cutest family of owls you’ve ever seen.
Don’t have too much time? We think the Clifton Gorge State Nature Reserve is perfect for a short scenic walk. You’ll be delighted by the rush of the water as you meander your way through the forests and back to town.
After spending much of our vacation days in the car, we know one of the keys to a good road trip is to find a way to refresh and reward yourself before piling back into the car for the drive home. In Yellow Springs, we’ve discovered more than a couple of good local-approved options.
Stopping at Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm (6880 Springfield Xenia Rd) for homemade ice cream (and a family photo in front of the vibrant sunflower fields) is a rite of passage in these parts.
But as bona fide beer connoisseurs, we’d be remiss not to always recommend a pit stop at Yellow Springs Brewery (305 Walnut St) for a cold pint made with care.
(Please be sure to drink responsibly and choose a designated driver before you arrive.)
Newark, OH
Newark is another great city full of shopping, dining, and nightlife, and it’s only 40 minutes from the heart of Columbus. If you have a shorter amount of time to dedicate to your road trip escapades, or you’d prefer to have more time to spend wandering around your destination, Newark, OH, is a wonderful choice.
If you enjoy a more traditional approach to tourism when choosing road trip destinations, Newark has plenty of museums and attractions to keep you busy.
For a step into the city’s history, we suggest the Licking County Historic Jail, a popular destination for tourists. The Dawes Arboretum, on the other hand, offers you a chance to (literally!) stop and smell the roses. This park has 2,000 acres of gardens and forest. If we weren’t in any kind of rush, we could spend all afternoon here enjoying a lazy picnic.
To take in the weird and the wonderful, Newark has lots of wacky attractions to keep you and your travel crew enchanted, too. First, make a pit stop to take a photo with the World’s Largest Basket. Then, head to the Works Museum, where you can design something on a 3D printer, play with robots, or make your own glass.
Hamilton, OH
Nicknamed the “City of Sculpture,” a road trip to Hamilton is a no-brainer for the artsy, forward-thinking traveler. The drive from Columbus takes about one hour and 45 minutes each way, so it’s up to you whether or not to make the roundtrip in a single day or split it up with an overnight stay.
Art lovers visiting Hamilton, OH, need to carve out time for a walk through Hamilton’s Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum. From avant-garde metalwork to cultural wood carvings, a stroll through this 200-acre greenspace is both thought-provoking and relaxing. There’s also an indoor museum gallery if you need to step out of the sun to cool off—or to keep you inspired on rainy days.
Want to take a retro-inspired road trip? We’d recommend starting your afternoon at the Pinball Garage. This bar and arcade will not only indulge your inner child, but it also, according to locals we asked, has some of the most mouth-watering BBQ in town.
After the sun sets, head to the Holiday Auto Theatre for a good old-fashioned drive-in experience. Cuddle up in the back of the truck for a romantic double-feature or put the kids in their jammies, spoil them with popcorn and candy, and listen to them giggle as they experience movie-going like they never have before.
