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Ohio offers a plethora of family-friendly attractions that cater to kids of all ages. From interactive museums to expansive parks, there is no shortage of things to do in Ohio with kids. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the top destinations that promise fun, learning, and memorable experiences for the entire family.
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
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The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is an outstanding destination for families, offering a blend of educational and entertaining experiences. One of its most popular attractions is the Kirtland Hall of Prehistoric Life, which showcases a vast collection of dinosaur fossils, including the impressive, life-sized T. rex skeleton that never fails to captivate children. The Smead Discovery Center, a hands-on learning space, allows kids to explore natural history through interactive exhibits and activities. Families can also enjoy the Ralph Perkins II Wildlife Center & Woods Garden, where they can observe live animals native to Ohio in naturalistic habitats. This outdoor area offers an immersive experience that connects visitors with local wildlife and nature.
Additionally, the museum frequently hosts temporary exhibits, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. Located in University Circle, the museum is close to other family-friendly attractions such as the Cleveland Botanical Garden and the Cleveland Museum of Art, making it an ideal hub for a day of exploration.
Expert Tips for Cleveland Museum of Natural History: Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and allow extra time for the outdoor wildlife center, as it provides a serene escape and unique learning experience for kids.
Address: 1 Wade Oval Dr, Cleveland, OH 44106
COSI (Center of Science and Industry)
COSI (Center of Science and Industry) in Columbus is a premier destination for families, offering a wealth of interactive exhibits and educational opportunities that make learning fun. One of the most popular attractions is the Ocean exhibit, where children can explore a submerged submarine and learn about marine life through hands-on displays. The Space exhibit, featuring a planetarium and a space capsule, allows kids to delve into the wonders of the universe. The Little Kidspace is specifically designed for younger children, providing a safe and engaging environment with activities that promote creativity and exploration. COSI also hosts traveling exhibits, ensuring there’s always something new to see.
The museum offers live science shows and demonstrations, adding an element of excitement to the educational experience. Located near the Scioto Mile, COSI is conveniently situated for families to enjoy a scenic stroll along the river or a visit to the nearby parks, enhancing the overall outing.
Expert Tips for COSI: Arrive early to beat the crowds and take advantage of the hands-on exhibits, and consider purchasing tickets in advance for popular shows and planetarium presentations to ensure a spot.
Address: 333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
Kings Island
Kings Island, located just outside of Cincinnati, is a top-tier amusement park that caters to families with its wide variety of attractions and entertainment options. The park’s highlight for families is Planet Snoopy, an award-winning kids’ area featuring over 20 rides and attractions designed for younger guests. Families can enjoy gentle rides, live shows, and interactive experiences with beloved Peanuts characters. For thrill-seekers, Kings Island offers world-class roller coasters such as The Beast and Diamondback. In addition to the amusement park, Soak City Water Park provides a perfect way to cool off, with water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
The park also hosts seasonal events like WinterFest and Halloween Haunt, offering unique experiences throughout the year. Conveniently located near Cincinnati, Kings Island is close to other attractions like the Cincinnati Zoo and Newport Aquarium, making it an excellent addition to a family trip.
Expert Tips for Kings Island: To maximize your visit, arrive early to take advantage of shorter lines for popular rides and use the Kings Island app to check wait times and plan your day efficiently. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
Address: Mason, OH 45040
Toledo Zoo & Aquarium
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The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is an exceptional destination for families, offering a rich variety of attractions that appeal to both children and adults. The zoo is home to over 10,000 animals from 720 species, providing endless opportunities for wildlife exploration. One of the most popular exhibits is the Africa! exhibit, where families can observe giraffes, zebras, and other African animals in expansive, naturalistic habitats. The aquarium section is equally impressive, featuring a wide array of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish.
The zoo also offers engaging interactive experiences, such as behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters, which provide deeper insights into animal care and conservation. Additionally, the zoo hosts seasonal events like Lights Before Christmas, adding a magical touch to the visit. Located near the Maumee River, the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is close to other family-friendly attractions like the Toledo Botanical Garden, making it easy to plan a full day of fun and exploration.
Expert Tips for Toledo Zoo & Aquarium: Visit early in the day to see the animals at their most active and take advantage of the zoo’s interactive experiences. Consider purchasing a membership if you plan to visit multiple times, as it offers great value and additional perks.
Address: 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609
Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park in southeastern Ohio is a nature lover’s paradise and an excellent destination for families seeking outdoor adventures. The park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including cliffs, gorges, waterfalls, and dense forests. One of the most popular attractions is Old Man’s Cave, where families can hike through a series of picturesque rock formations, bridges, and waterfalls. Another favorite is Ash Cave, which features a massive recessed cave and a waterfall, accessible via an easy, wheelchair-friendly trail. Cedar Falls offers a beautiful spot for picnics and wading in the stream.
For families who enjoy more active pursuits, the park provides opportunities for bird watching, rock climbing, and fishing. Camping is available in various forms, from traditional campsites to cozy cabins. Nearby attractions include the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, offering train rides through the scenic region, and Lake Logan, perfect for boating and fishing.
Expert Tips for Hocking Hills State Park: Visit during the weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and bring plenty of water and snacks, as many trails do not have amenities. Make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes to navigate the sometimes rocky and uneven terrain.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
The Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal is a must-visit for families, offering a unique blend of educational and interactive experiences housed in a stunning Art Deco building. The Children’s Museum is a highlight, featuring exhibits like Kids’ Town, where children can role-play in a miniature city, and The Woods, an indoor nature-themed play area with climbing structures and slides. The Museum of Natural History & Science provides engaging displays, including a dinosaur exhibit and a recreated Ice Age trail.
The Cincinnati History Museum offers a journey through the city’s past with life-sized dioramas and historical artifacts. The Union Terminal itself is an architectural marvel, with its grand rotunda and beautiful murals. Conveniently located near downtown Cincinnati, the museum center is close to other attractions such as the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and the Newport Aquarium, making it an ideal hub for a day of family exploration.
Expert Tips for Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal: Plan to spend at least half a day to fully explore the museums and exhibits, and consider purchasing an all-museum pass for the best value. Don’t miss the Omnimax Theater for an immersive film experience that kids will love.
Address: 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203
The Wilds
The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio, is a unique safari park and conservation center that offers an unforgettable experience for families. Spanning nearly 10,000 acres, The Wilds provides open-air safari tours where visitors can see animals like rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs roaming freely in expansive, natural habitats. One of the most popular attractions is the guided Safari Transport tour, which takes families through the park to observe and learn about the diverse wildlife.
The Wilds also offers a variety of interactive experiences, such as zip-lining over the animal enclosures and horseback riding through the scenic landscape. For those looking to extend their visit, The Wilds provides overnight accommodations in the form of luxury yurts and cabins. Additionally, the park is committed to conservation and education, offering programs and behind-the-scenes tours that highlight their efforts in wildlife preservation. Located near the Muskingum River, The Wilds is also close to other outdoor activities, such as hiking and fishing.
Expert Tips for The Wilds: Book your safari tour in advance, as spots can fill up quickly, and consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day to see the animals at their most active. Wear comfortable clothing and bring binoculars for the best wildlife viewing experience.
Address: 14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and most celebrated zoos in the United States, making it a fantastic destination for families. Spanning 75 acres, the zoo is home to over 500 animal species and thousands of plant varieties, offering endless exploration opportunities. One of the most popular attractions is the Gorilla World, where visitors can observe these magnificent primates in a lush, naturalistic environment. The zoo’s Night Hunters exhibit showcases a variety of nocturnal animals, providing a unique perspective on wildlife.
Additionally, the Children’s Zoo area allows kids to interact with domestic animals and enjoy playful exhibits. The botanical garden is equally impressive, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, rare plants, and seasonal flower displays. Located near downtown Cincinnati, the zoo is also close to other family-friendly attractions such as the Cincinnati Museum Center and the Newport Aquarium, making it easy to plan a full day of activities.
Expert Tips for Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden: Arrive early to avoid the crowds and make the most of your visit by checking the daily schedule for animal feedings and keeper talks. Bring comfortable walking shoes and plenty of water, especially during the warmer months.
Address: 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220
Akron Children’s Museum
The Akron Children’s Museum is a vibrant and engaging destination that offers a wealth of interactive exhibits designed to ignite creativity and curiosity in children. Located in downtown Akron, the museum features hands-on activities that cover a variety of themes, including science, art, and engineering. One of the most popular attractions is the Makerspace, where kids can engage in DIY projects, fostering innovation and problem-solving skills. The museum’s Imagination Playground allows children to build and create with oversized blocks, encouraging cooperative play and creativity.
Additionally, the museum frequently hosts educational programs, workshops, and special events that add variety to each visit. With its focus on interactive learning and play, the Akron Children’s Museum provides a fun and educational experience for families. Nearby attractions include Lock 3 Park, which offers seasonal activities such as ice skating in the winter and concerts in the summer, making it easy to extend your visit with additional family-friendly fun.
Expert Tips for Akron Children’s Museum: Plan your visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and take advantage of the museum’s quieter atmosphere. Consider participating in one of the museum’s scheduled workshops for an enriched learning experience
Address: 51 W. State Street
Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, located in Cleveland’s Old Brooklyn neighborhood, is a premier family destination offering over 180 acres of animal exhibits and beautiful landscapes. Home to more than 3,000 animals from around the world, the zoo is divided into several themed areas, such as the African Savanna, Northern Trek, and Australian Adventure. The RainForest exhibit is particularly popular, featuring over 10,000 plants and 600 animals, including orangutans, birds, and reptiles, in a lush, tropical environment. The Rosebrough Tiger Passage provides an up-close view of majestic tigers in a dynamic habitat designed to stimulate natural behaviors. Families can also enjoy the Primate, Cat & Aquatics Building, which houses a variety of primates, small cats, and aquatic life.
The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is dedicated to wildlife conservation and offers numerous educational programs, animal encounters, and seasonal events that make each visit unique. Nearby, families can explore the Cleveland Botanical Garden and the Greater Cleveland Aquarium for more fun-filled adventures.
Expert Tips for Cleveland Metroparks Zoo: Arrive early to see the animals at their most active and take advantage of the zoo’s tram service to easily navigate between exhibits. Bring a picnic to enjoy in one of the many scenic areas or visit during a special event for added excitement.
Address: 3900 Wildlife Way, Cleveland, OH 44109
Cedar Point
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Cedar Point, located in Sandusky, Ohio, is a world-renowned amusement park that offers an exhilarating experience for families. Known as “America’s Roller Coast,” Cedar Point features over 70 rides, including 18 world-class roller coasters that cater to thrill-seekers of all ages. The park’s family-friendly areas, such as Camp Snoopy and the Gemini Midway, offer a variety of gentle rides and interactive attractions tailored for younger children. Cedar Point Shores Waterpark, adjacent to the amusement park, provides a perfect way to cool off with water slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river.
The park also offers live entertainment, including shows and seasonal events like HalloWeekends and WinterFest, ensuring a unique experience during each visit. Conveniently located on the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point is close to other attractions like the Merry-Go-Round Museum and the Sandusky Maritime Museum, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled family vacation.
Expert Tips for Cedar Point: Arrive early to take advantage of shorter lines for popular rides and consider purchasing a Fast Lane pass to maximize your time on the rides. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
Address: Sandusky, OH 44870
Why You Should Consider a Family Trip to Ohio
Ohio is an ideal destination for a family trip, offering a diverse array of attractions and activities that cater to all ages. The state boasts over 250 museums, zoos, and science centers, providing educational and entertaining experiences for children and adults alike. For instance, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) in Columbus, and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden are just a few of the standout destinations.
Additionally, Ohio is home to 74 state parks and over 130 nature preserves, perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking, fishing, and camping. Cedar Point in Sandusky, known for its world-class roller coasters, adds a thrill to any family vacation. According to the Ohio Travel Association, tourism generates over $48 billion annually, reflecting the state’s popularity as a travel destination.
With its blend of cultural, educational, and recreational activities, Ohio offers something for every family member, ensuring a memorable and enriching vacation.