Ohio summer vacation ideas
We know you want to go somewhere.
You just don’t know where yet.
Well, we’re here to help. We’ve got some great ideas for summer vacations in Ohio that will make your time away from home even more awesome than it already is!
First things first: What do you like to do? Do you like to hike? Or maybe you’re more of a watersports kind of person? Maybe you like to spend your time outdoors with friends and family, or maybe you’d rather spend it alone with a good book. No matter what your preference, there’s something in Ohio that will fit the bill!
If hiking is more your thing, then check out one of our favorite spots: Hocking Hills State Park. It’s filled with trails and caves galore, so if you’re into getting lost in nature for a bit—or if you just really want to see where all those TV shows got their ideas from—this is the place for you!
If watersports are more up your alley, head over to Lake Erie! We have an amazing beach right here in Cleveland (and other beaches along Lake Erie as well) where you can spend as much time as possible soaking up the sun while enjoying all kinds of water fun with friends
Ohio summer vacation ideas
1. Sandusky
Sandusky offers endless amusement, excitement and entertainment for everyone in your gang.
Who should vacation here
Sandusky, with easy access to beaches and waterfront trails, is a haven of fun for thrill-seeking and water-loving families.
What’s more, Sandusky is home to Cedar Point, a famous amusement park featuring some of the world’s fastest and tallest roller coasters.
The town also has a plethora of other family-friendly attractions, including the Kalahari Resorts & Conventions and Merry-Go–Round Museum.
Subscribe to Family Destinations Guide!
Get updates on the latest posts and more from Family Destinations Guide straight to your inbox.SUBSCRIBEI consent to receiving emails and personalized ads.
Expert tip
With spacious family rooms and a beachfront location, Sandusky’s Cedar Point Hotel Breakers is truly one of the best family hotels in Ohio.
Plus, the hotel offers tons of fantastic age-friendly amenities, including water sports, a water park, and numerous dining options.
Recommended Hotel: Cedar Point Hotel Breakers
2. Cleveland
From lively parks to educational museums, Cleveland features big city fun for all types of families.
Who should vacation here
Whether your family is into sports, art, nature or food, Cleveland will surely satisfy your tribe’s travel cravings.
The city has over a dozen parks offering everything from a zoo and golf courses to hiking trails.
Of course, it’s packed with indoor attractions, like the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Expert tip
You might want to buy a Cleveland Pass if you’re planning to use the city’s public transportation.
The pass offers one-day or multi-day passes that offer unlimited rides on the BRT, trolley, rail and bus.
Recommended Hotel: Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection
3. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park features some of the most insanely fun things to do in Ohio with kids.
Who should vacation here
If you’re aching to escape your hustle bustle city life, look no further than Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
In warmer months, the park offers ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, hiking and biking.
There are even fun kid-approved activities here, like train rides and junior ranger programs.
In winter, the park turns into a hotbed for sledding, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing adventures.
Expert tip
Take a break from the outdoor pursuits and experience the park’s other attractions.
The park has an outdoor living history museum and 4 golf courses.
Recommended Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Cuyahoga Falls, OH
4. Amish Country
Amish Country is one of the most serene and eye-opening places to visit in Ohio with kids.
Who should vacation
Introduce your kiddos to a simpler and more peaceful way of life with a vacation in Amish Country.
Nestled in amid gorgeous landscapes, Amish Country encourages your family to savor simple pleasures and tranquil adventures.
What’s more, this countryside destination is dotted with charming farms, shops and bakeries.
Expert tip
Berlin Resort offers a bevy of age-friendly leisure amenities, including a saltwater pool, the Children’s Village and a private movie theater.
The rooms are also comfortable and are fitted with convenient facilities.
Recommended Hotel: Berlin Resort
5. Cincinnati
No list of the best kid-friendly weekend getaways in Ohio is complete without Cincinnati.
Who should vacation here
In Cincinnati, families will find a diverse medley of attractions that will appease all tastes and ages.
For a memorable trip, check out the mind-blowing rides of Kings Island.
Afterwards, check out the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden and Coney Island.
Expert tip
Explore the cities and areas surrounding this Ohio destination.
Take note that Cincinnati offers easy access to several family vacations near Ohio, such as Newport, Kentucky.
Recommended Hotel: Curio Collection by Hilton The Cincinnatian Hotel
6. Punderson Manor Resort & Conference Center
11755 Kinsman Rd
Newbury Township, OH 44065
(440) 564-9144
Searching for tranquil yet fun family resorts?
Trust me, you’ll have a lot of pleasurable moments as you stay at Punderson Manor.
Who should vacation here
Punderson Manor combines luxury and family fun, to give you a memorable vacation.
There’s a lively playground, a golf course, evening entertainment and tours about the local culture.
With a beautiful lake view, the resort is also ideal for those who need to unwind and relax.
Expert tip
Do yourself a favor, and stay at their 2-bedroom cottage.
With adjoining rooms, a queen bed and 2 twin beds, the cottage can comfortably fit in up to 6 adult guests.
Not to mention, it’s loaded with amenities to make your stay convenient.
7. Toledo
Experience a heap of satisfying and memorable water escapades in Toledo.
Who should vacation here
Toledo is a paradise for families who are into outdoor water fun.
In fact, the city is often nicknamed the “water recreational capital of the Northwest”.
In Toledo, you can charter a fishing or sailing boat to see all of Lake Erie’s inlets and coves, or enjoy a lighthouse tour.
Expert tip
There’s so much more to do in Toledo, beside its water recreational activities.
For instance, you may head to the interactive Imagination Station to help enhance your children’s math and science skills.
You may also go to the Toledo Zoo and the Sylvania Historical Village.
Recommended Hotel: Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel
8. South Beach Resort Hotel
8620 E Bayshore Rd
Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440
(419) 798-4900
South Beach is, no doubt, one of the best Ohio vacations for families who are into splashy fun.
Who should vacation here
If you intend to spend most of your time on the water, you’re going to love South Beach Resort.
Not only does it feature a private beach area, but it also has 3 outdoor pools.
Furthermore, it has a game room as well as sand volleyball, basketball and tennis courts.
Expert tip
Do some exploration on your vacation at this resort.
From the hotel, you’ll be a quick drive away to the Marblehead Lighthouse, Sky Ride, Cedar Point and Sandusky Maritime Museum.
LEARN MORE
Related: Best Family Beaches in Ohio
9. Canton
Canton overflows with fun, with its extraordinary museums and football ties.
Who should vacation here
Canton is a can’t-miss Ohio destination for sports-loving families.
Known as the birthplace of the NFL, Canton is home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which features unique exhibits and artifacts.
For non-sports fans, the city also has plenty of other age-friendly attractions.
Expert tip
Canton has some unusual attractions that families might want to visit.
The Feline Historical Society is a hit for families who love cats.
Meanwhile, dads will likely love the Canton Classic Car Museum.
Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn Hall of Fame
10. Dayton
Dayton is filled with educational attractions and wondrous family-friendly places to go.
Who should vacation here
Dayton offers families an exceptional mixture of attractions, wonders and activities.
The National Museum of the US Air Force is a highlight of most family vacations.
Other must-sees include the Dayton Art Institute, Aullwood Audubon Center and Riverscape Metropark.
Expert tip
Make a pit stop to the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery.
It’s educational and has a host of wondrous attractions, including a planetarium, an aquarium, and a live animal sanctuary.
