Posts with tag 'Summer'

No time for an extended getaway? Ohio is full of schedule- and budget-friendly places you can visit in a day. Whether you're in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, or Cincinnati, hop in the car with the family and head out to these wonderful attractions. 

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870

The "Roller Coaster Capital of the World" is right here in Ohio on the shores of Lake Erie. But even if you're not a thrill-seeker, there's plenty to enjoy at Cedar Point, voted "Best Amusement Park in America" by readers of USA Today. In addition to more than 70 rides, the park features live entertainment, games, shops and restaurants, a water park, and a mile-long beach. It's a lot to cover in one day, so Hotel Breakers was also voted "Best Amusement Park Hotel." Get unlimited visits and free parking for only $99. Visit the website for schedule and pricing.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

714 N. Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303

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Unlike many historic homes, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens isn't named after a former owner. The estate was built in the early 1910s for Goodyear co-founder F.A. Seiberling and his family. "Stan Hywet" is actually an Old English term for "stone quarry," which was the most prominent natural feature of the grounds. Today, visitors can tour the stunning 65-room Tudor Revival Manor House along with the Gate Lodge, Corbin Conservatory, and the series of colorful gardens on the property. Hours are 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Visit the website for pricing.

Put-in-Bay

Put-in-Bay, OH 43456

Put-in-Bay measures a scant 12.5 square miles in size, but it packs in more to do than many cities more than twice its size. The crown jewel of Lake Erie's Bass Islands is often referred to as the "Key West of the North." With a great mix of historic, cultural, and entertainment attractions, Put-in-Bay offers something for everyone. The island's most popular site is Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, with its towering observation deck providing views of Lake Erie, Cleveland, Toledo, and Detroit. Put-in-Bay is accessible by ferry for vehicles and pedestrians.

The Wilds

14000 International Rd., Cumberland, OH 43732

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Have you ever dreamed of taking an African safari? You won't need a passport to enjoy the experience at The Wilds. Jack Hanna, former director of the Columbus Zoo who gained fame from multiple appearances on The Tonight Show, was the guiding force behind development of this incredible attraction. View Bactrian camels and deer, cheetahs, giraffes, Southern white rhinos, and other exotic wildlife in natural surroundings. Get a different perspective from ziplines that soar above the park, or take a behind-the-scenes tour with Animal Management specialists. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily through October, and reservations are required. Visit the website for schedule and pricing.

Cedar Bog Nature Preserve

980 Woodburn Rd., Urbana, OH 43078

Thousands of years went into the creation of Cedar Bog Nature Preserve. The 45 acres formed by retreating glaciers actually constitute a fen, which is a wetland that drains water, as opposed to a bog, which retains water. In addition to being designated as a National Natural Landmark, Cedar Bog has the highest ranking of any site in Ohio on the Floristic Diversity Index for its wide range of plants. Cedar Bog is also home to more than 40 endangered, threatened, and rare plants and animals. Nature Center hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday until October 31, but the boardwalk is open daily during daylight hours. Admission is $5 for adults and $4 for ages 6-17.

Malabar Farm State Park

4050 Bromfield Rd., Lucas, OH 44843

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Louis Bromfield was the classic local-boy-makes-good, becoming a Pulitzer Prize-winning author moving in the same circles as Ernest Hemingway and Gertrude Stein. When Bromfield decided to reinvent himself as a farmer, he came home to create the eponymous estate that is now Malabar Farm State Park, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Tour the "Big House," which once hosted the wedding of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, and visit the adorable animals that live in the Main Barn. Other activities include hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. daily and admission is free.

Historic Loveland Castle & Museum

12075 Shore Dr., Loveland, OH 45140

Travel back in time to medieval Europe with a visit to Historic Loveland Castle & Museum. This faithful replica of a 10th-century castle was intended to be the base of a group of Sunday school students taught by WWI vet Harry Delos Andrews. As a medieval warrior buff, Andrews dubbed the group, "Knights of the Golden Trail," and began construction on the castle for its 100+ members. After touring Loveland Castle and its display of medieval weapons, stroll the surrounding gardens and have a picnic lunch overlooking the Little Miami River. Hours are 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily through October 31. Admission is $5 with no charge for ages 5 and under.

Rabbit Hash General Store

10021 Lower River Rd., Rabbit Hash, KY 41005

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Rabbit Hash is one of those classic slices of Americana where you might expect to see Sheriff Andy Taylor and his son Opie heading to the local fishing hole. The unincorporated community, which takes its name from a beloved local dish, has a population of just over 300 and the mayor is a French bulldog named Wilbur Beast. Visitors are drawn by Rabbit Hash's quirky charm and quaint downtown, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Rabbit Hash General Store, with its eclectic mix of merchandise and nostalgic feel, is the heart and soul of the community. Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.

Caesar Creek State Park

8570 E. State Route 73, Waynesville, OH 45068

With its scenic setting, numerous amenities, and variety of activities, Caesar Creek State Park is like a giant summer camp for all ages. The main attraction is a large lake that features a marina, launch ramps, and dock rentals for boating, along with opportunities for swimming and fishing. Other outdoor activities include hiking, horseback riding, and archery. Pioneer Village is a unique living history museum consisting of a blacksmith shop, pioneer schoolhouse, and other buildings depicting life in the early 1800s. Caesar Creek State Park is open seven days a week from 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. and admission is free.

What a Difference a Day Makes

What is the most memorable trip you've made in a single day?

With a charming mix of carnival rides, farm animals, and tasty food treats, county fairs are an iconic part of Midwest summers. In Ohio, these lively events date back literally hundreds of years. Mark your calendar for these must-see county fairs in Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.

Medina County Fair

735 W. Smith Rd., Medina, OH 44256

Better late than never! After a year off, the Medina County Fair is celebrating its 175th anniversary during its 176th year. Traditional events, such as the popular livestock shows and bull riding contest, pay tribute to the fair's past. Live concerts, drag racing, and motocross are some of the entertainment options that highlight Medina's present. Kids can show off their creativity in coloring, art, writing, and hay bale decorating contests. The Medina County Fair runs from Monday, August 2 through Sunday, August 8. Admission is $7 for everyone 12 and over and $3 for kids aged 2-11.

Lorain County Fair

23000 Fairgrounds Rd., Wellington, OH 44090

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Another Northeast Ohio tradition observes a milestone as the Lorain County Fair, second largest in the state, reaches its 175th year. Each summer, people head to the fair for one last celebration before Labor Day leads into fall. One of the event's goals is to educate the public about animals with showings of horses, sheep, and poultry, along with auctions and skill demonstrations. Evening entertainment includes live music, derbies, and a rodeo. Enjoy thrilling midway rides for only $1 each or $20 for unlimited rides. Gates open at 8 a.m. each day from Sunday, August 22 to Sunday, August 29. Admission is $6, with no charge for kids aged 8 and under. A $30 season pass is good for seven admissions.

Great Geauga County Fair

14373 N. Cheshire St., Burton, OH 44021

The Great Geauga County Fair is just shy of two centuries, but it's twice as much fun as fairs half its age. Founded in 1823, the Great Geauga is the oldest continuous county fair in the state as well as one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the United States. There's fun for the whole family at the Natural Resource Area, which features demonstrations and activities centered around wildlife and environmental awareness. And what's a fair without an apple pie-eating contest? If you're feeling lucky, try your hand at the other family-friendly competitions, including Diaper Dash, Kiddie Tractor Pull, and 4-H 5K. The fair takes place Thursday, September 2 through Monday, September 6. Admission is $10 for ages 7 and above. Buy advance tickets online to save $2 and avoid the lines.

Hartford Fair

14028 Fairgrounds Rd., Croton, OH 43013

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Billed as the "Biggest Little Fair in the World," the Hartford Fair encompasses Licking County along with portions of Delaware and Knox counties. The fair also has a reputation as a reunion spot, as families use the occasion for annual gatherings of relatives from across the distance. Fans of motorsports are in seventh heaven with truck and tractor pulls, autocross, demolition derbies, and monster truck rallies. Even during the fair's earlier days, racing was the main attraction, including a foot race when Maggie McComb beat out William Lane. Fair days run from Sunday, August 8 through Saturday, August 14. Admission is $8 for ages 8 and above.

Delaware County Fair

236 Pennsylvania Ave., Delaware, OH 43015

Who says the outdoor fun has to end with summer? Enjoy some post-Labor Day delights at the Delaware County Fair. Horses are the main event here, starting with the parade that kicks off the festivities and right up to the Little Brown Jug, the fair's signature harness race. The impressive motorsports complex is the site of demolition derbies, truck pulls, and even school bus races. With a wide range of activities from eating contests and putt-putt golf to scavenger hunts and kids' crafts, there's something for everyone. This year's fair is scheduled for Saturday, September 18 through Saturday, September 25. 

Hardin County Fair

14134 Letson Ave., Kenton, OH 43326

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September means back to school, and kids won't need any encouragement to attend the "classroom" at the Hardin County Fair. One of the top activities is COSI on Wheels, a traveling outreach program that offers a variety of dynamic interactive experiments. A petting zoo and Columbus Zoo exhibit provide opportunities to get up close and personal with some fascinating animals and birds. Eli the Magician stars in two shows a day and strolls the grounds, delighting fairgoers with amazing tricks. These activities are all included in fair admission, which is $10 for everyone aged 9 and older. Fair dates are Tuesday, September 7 through Sunday, September 12. 

Hamilton County Fair

7700 Vine St., Cincinnati, OH 45216

Situated on 30 acres just north of Cincinnati, the Hamilton County Fair creates an interesting juxtaposition of agricultural and urban landscapes. City slickers get to learn about life on the farm, including a chance to try their hand at milking a cow. This year's grandstand events include go-kart racing and a soccer mom derby. Fire up your oven and prepare your best pies, cookies, breads, and cakes for the baking competitions. The Hamilton County Fair runs from Thursday, August 12 through Sunday, August 15. Admission is $10 per person, which includes all rides.

Allen County Fair

2750 Harding Hwy., Lima, OH 45804

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On October 21, 1851, it was reported that a "vast throng" attended the first Allen County Fair at Faurot Farm. Today, more than 200,000 visitors attend the annual event, making it one of the top fairs in the state. One of the biggest draws is the top-name entertainment that takes the main stage each year. Vince Gill, Def Leppard, Alabama, and Reba McEntire are just a few of the stars who have appeared at the Allen County Fair. 2021 is no exception, with Brad Paisley as the headliner. Fair days are Friday, August 20 through Saturday, August 28. Admission is $7 for ages 7 and up.

Champaign County Fair

384 Park Ave., Urbana, OH 43078

The Champaign County Fair includes livestock shows, craft exhibits, and other traditional fair activities, but this year's event will also be a classic rock lover's dream. Opening night features a three-hour extravaganza with Beatles, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute bands. Fair dates are Friday, August 6 through Friday, August 13. Admission of $8 includes rides, while tickets for Rock the Fair are an additional $10.

Good Eats

Fair food is so popular that it has its own show on Food Network. What's the most memorable food you've eaten at a fair?

Wanderlust is part of our American heritage. Fortunately, there are a number of intriguing road trips from Columbus, OH that are short on distance, but long on culture and entertainment.

Picturesque Marietta, just under a two-hour drive from Columbus, bills itself as "Ohio's First Adventure," but they're not just bragging. No less an authority than National Geographic calls Marietta one of the best "adventure towns" in the United States. Use this helpful guide to plan your own adventure in Marietta.

ATTRACTIONS

The Castle Historic House Museum

418 4th St., Marietta, OH 45750

 

 

 

 

 

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You'll feel like a member of royalty for a day when you visit The Castle, a stunning Gothic Revival home dating back to 1855. Built for the then-princely sum of $10,000, The Castle has housed lawyers, bankers, and even a member of the Ohio Senate. In addition to antiques and historical furniture, museum displays include many items related to various owners of the home. Admission is $10 for adults and $7 for students. Hours vary by season and advance reservations are required, so visit the website for more information.

Trolley Tours

241 Front St., Marietta, OH 45750

Enjoy the charm and history of Marietta from a comfortable seat on the Trolley Tours. You'll get a unique perspective of the town thanks to entertaining stories from the knowledgeable tour guides. The 90-minute trip covers all noteworthy areas of Marietta, including beautiful residential streets, so you can decide which places you want to explore in depth. Trips depart from the Armory parking lot at 10 a.m. Call or visit their Facebook page for more information.

Marietta River Trail

Marietta, OH 45750

 

 

 

 

 

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Marietta is nestled in the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers. The latter provides a scenic backdrop for a pleasant walk along the Marietta River Trail. Construction is occurring in phases, but the current configuration runs 3.28 miles, just long enough for a family-friendly outing. Leashed four-legged family members are welcome, so bring your precious pooch along. The trail begins at the Indian Acres Boat Ramp, extending to E. 8th and Jefferson streets.

Children's Toy and Doll Museum

206 Gilman Ave., Marietta, OH 45750

Do your kids think history is boring? They'll love the "education" at the Children's Toy and Doll Museum. Founded in 1976, the museum outgrew two other locations before settling into its current home in a Queen Anne-style house. Nine separate rooms contain themed collections featuring dolls and dollhouses along with a wide selection of antique toys and games. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for kids. Hours are 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. weekends.

SHOPPING

Wit & Whimzy

152 Front St., Marietta, OH 45750

 

 

 

 

 

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When you visit Wit & Whimzy, the name alone lets you know you're in for a unique experience. The shop is filled with a carefully curated collection of artisan-crafted items from local and regional artists and small business owners. On any given day, you can find unique jewelry, home decor, bath and body products, apparel, and accessories that are perfect for yourself or gift-giving. Many items have a Marietta, Ohio, or West Virginia theme. Wit & Whimzy is open 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday.

Teri Ann's

290 Front St., Marietta, OH 45750

Tired of shopping at national chain stores with mass-produced clothes and no customer service? Teri Ann's features women's designer clothes and accessories so you can put together your own stylish look. Cheerful and knowledgeable service is a hallmark of the family-owned store, founded in 1961 by George and Virginia Zide and named after their eldest child. Store hours are 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

DINING

Marietta Brewing Co.

167 Front St., Marietta, OH 45750

 

 

 

 

 

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Marietta has a rich past, but the city has also embraced the best features of modern-day life. Head to Marietta Brewing Co. for locally-made craft beer and "guest" beverages from top Ohio breweries. The food menu includes eight types of burgers along with other brewpub classics such as pizza, chicken wings, and nachos. Dine in or order online for carry-out. Hours are 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

The Buckley House Restaurant

332 Front St., Marietta, OH 45750

Dining out is truly a special event at The Buckley House Restaurant. Located in an elegant Victorian-style home listed on the Ohio Historic Register, The Buckley House was built in 1879 as a private residence. The seasonal menu is influenced by the delicious flavors and healthy ingredients of Mediterranean cuisine. Enjoy the impeccably landscaped grounds from the outdoor dining areas on the front porch and back deck. The Buckley House serves dinner from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. every evening but Sunday and reservations are recommended.

LODGING

The Lafayette Hotel

101 Front St., Marietta, OH 45750

 

 

 

 

 

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Legend has it that American Revolution hero Marquis de Lafayette was the first tourist to visit Marietta during its fledgling days. The occasion is memorialized in the name of The Lafayette, one of the last remaining riverboat-area hotels. Located in the heart of downtown Marietta, The Lafayette has a distinctive triangular shape that allows guests a view of either the Ohio or Muskingum rivers. Amenities include a private fitness center, dry cleaning service, onsite laundry facilities, two restaurants, and a coffee shop. Visit the website for a list of specials and themed packages.

The Hackett Hotel

203 Second St., Marietta, OH 45750

Marietta's past meets the 21st century at The Hackett Hotel, a "casually chic" boutique hotel located on the second floor of a fully renovated 1899 building. The hotel's five rooms have their own individual decor and each one is named after an influential figure from Marietta's history. Modern amenities include free WiFi and HD TVs. Conveniently located on the first floor, The Galley is a lively gastropub with 24 beers on tap along with a menu that combines gourmet dishes and bar food classics. Lunch and dinner are served Monday through Saturday.

Hit the Road, Jack

What's been your most memorable road trip from Columbus, OH?

Who's ready to get out of the house and get away for a weekend? These last few months have brought our families together closer than ever. Unfortunately, that also meant pretty close quarters at home. While many of our summer vacation plans may be postponed until next year, there's still plenty of time to make the most of a quick trip around the state. Load up the kids, pack a handful of snacks, and head to one of these destinations that are perfect for a family weekend getaway.

Put-in-Bay

Distance From: Cleveland (85 miles) | Columbus (130 miles) | Cincinnati (235 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Looking to get away only to kick back and relax? Then stay put in Put-in-Bay! This island in Lake Erie is a fantastic play to have an enjoyable yet relaxed family vaca. You can either stay on the island itself or take the ferry back and forth to the mainland. Perry's Cave Family Fun Center is a must-do as it has everything imaginable: mini golf, rock climbing, a maze, and even gemstone mining. There are also tons of hiking trails, nature walks, and on-water activities to fill your getaway!

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Distance from: Cleveland (20 miles) | Columbus (129 miles) | Cincinnati (235 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Super close to Akron, your visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park will make you feel worlds away from the city. This wonderful natural space is a great place to camp and get your family in touch with nature. Hiking, biking, fishing, golfing, canoeing, kayaking, and stargazing are just the tip of the iceberg! Bring a few coolers of food for unforgettable picnics or eat one of the restaurants just outside of the park. You can stay in lodging within the park or camp at a nearby campground just outside of the park's limits.

Geneva-on-the-Lake

Distance From: Cleveland (53 miles) | Columbus (190 miles) | Cincinnati (296 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Whether you're looking for indoor or outdoor family fun, Geneva-on-the-Lake is the place to be! Charter a fishing boat or play mini-golf. Take a zipline canopy tour or go canoeing down the Grand River. If the weather isn't cooperating, a roller rink and multiple arcades will deliver indoor fun. Just be sure to hit the beach when you can as no trip to Geneva-on-the-Lake is complete without actually being on the Lake.

Hocking Hills

Distance From: Cleveland (197 miles) | Columbus (57 miles) | Cincinnati (135 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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If your family can't spend enough time outdoors then set a course for Hocking Hills! Southeastern Ohio's scenic wonderland has two nature preserves, five state parks/forests, and six natural attractions. Hike to the Old Man's Cave or Cedar Falls. Camp in a tent or stay in a cabin. Plus, there are plenty of other family-friendly attractions like High Rock Adventures, Skyview Drive-In, Rollerball Lanes, and R Adventure Park.

Sandusky

Distance From: Cleveland (63 miles)Columbus (112 miles) | | Cincinnati (225 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Have an adventure on the shores of Lake Erie in Sandusky. This town is home to adrenaline-pumping action including Cedar Point amusement park, Ghostly Manor Thrill Center, Great Wolf Lodge Waterpark, Castaway Bay Waterpark, and Kalahari Resort. Add a new interesting museums and lovely state parks into the mix, and you've got an active weekend that your kids will love!

Mason

Distance From: Cleveland (227 miles) | Columbus (85 miles) | Cincinnati (24 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Travelers to the Cincinnati area know that there are hours of fun to be had just a few miles north in Mason. Home to King's Island, the largest amusement park and waterpark in the Midwest. In fact, there are so many great family-friendly attractions around Warren County that Mason is a great home base. Jump & Jack's playground, the WEB Extreme Entertainment, and EnterTRAINment Junction are a few miles east.

Cumberland

Distance From: Cleveland (136 miles) | Columbus (77 miles) | Cincinnati (185 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Looking to get a little wild on your family getaway? Then head to Cumberland and visit The Wilds. This unique zoo features animals from around the world and you can go on your own safari through the park. You can take a zipline tour, learn about animals in the nature center, and even spend the night on the property and let the sounds of wildlife rock you to sleep.

Yellow Springs

Distance From: Cleveland (195 miles) | Columbus (56 miles) | Cincinnati (70 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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There's a reason Yellow Springs is known as "Everyone's Favorite Place." Arts, culture, local cuisine, and outdoor recreation all combine to give you an awesome weekend trip. Take a family bike ride through the trails within John Bryan State Park or hike around Clifton Gorge Nature Preserve. Grab fresh food from Flying Mouse Farms then dust off your new favorite book at one of the two Yellow Springs independent bookstores. With events nearly every weekend in downtown, there's always something fun to see and do for the whole family in Yellow Springs.

Amish Country

Distance From: Cleveland (78 miles) | Columbus (84 miles) | Cincinnati (200 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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If you've never visited Ohio's Amish Country, then you're in for a yesteryear treat! Amish Country is full of unique little towns that give you a sample of true Amish life. Take an Amish Heartland Tour in Millersburg, eat at the Amish Door Restaurant in Wilmot, and visit the "Little Switzerland of Ohio" in Sugarcreek. Whichever towns you stop in, be sure to sample the fresh cheese and pick up a few handcrafted souvenirs around Berlin.

Toledo

Distance From: Cleveland (114 miles) | Columbus (146 miles) | Cincinnati (202 miles)

 

 

 

 

 

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Instead of heading to the three Big C cities, head to Toledo and experience a different side of Ohio. The Toledo Zoo, Imagination Station, National Museum of the Great Lakes, and Wildwood Park are just a few of the great destinations inside Toledo. With dozens upon dozens of indoor and outdoor attractions that are ideal for all ages, Toldeo may just become your new favorite urban getaway in Ohio!

Family Roadtrip

Where is your favorite place to take the family for a weekend getaway? Tell us where we should plan our next family staycation in the comments!

Who needs an expensive trip to the East or West Coast for a beach vacation? Northeast Ohio is home to a number of scenic beaches that rival those in any other state. Thanks to their convenient location, you can even head out for a day-long getaway.

Get your summertime sand-and-water fix at these fun-filled beaches near Cleveland, Akron, Canton, and other Northeast Ohio cities.

Baylor Beach Park

8777 Manchester Ave. SW, Navarre, OH 44662

 

 

 

 

 

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Ohio's beautiful countryside is the setting for Baylor Beach Park, just 30 minutes from Akron and an hour's drive from Cleveland. Named after its founding family, Baylor Beach Park has been a popular Northeast Ohio getaway since 1955. The two-acre lake includes diving boards and water slides, while a nearby one-acre lake is available for paddleboats, aquabikes, and "funyaks." If you want to stay on dry land, enjoy a friendly game of miniature golf, volleyball, basketball, or cornhole. Admission is $8-$10 for guests aged 3 and up. Park hours are 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Baylor Beach Park is maintaining social distancing rules by limiting daily guests, so arrive early.

Nelson Ledges Quarry Park

12001 Route 282, Garrettsville, OH 44231

 

 

 

 

 

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Have you ever marveled at pictures of daring swimmers leaping off a cliff into the water below? Indulge your adventurous spirit at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park. Grown-ups can get the thrill of jumping off centuries-old 50- to 60-foot cliffs, while kiddies splash around in their own shallow roped-off area in the clear, spring-fed water. With other activities such as scuba and snorkeling, fishing, and hiking, the whole family will find endless entertainment. Admission is $10-$12, with reduced rates for kids aged 4-14. Nelson Ledges is open daily, with day passes good until 8 p.m. Swimming is allowed 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. while lifeguards are on duty. 

Lakeview Park

1800 W. Erie Ave., Lorain, OH 44052

 

 

 

 

 

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Ironically, although Lorain is situated on Lake Erie, there was originally no lakefront recreation available to city residents. That changed in 1917 when city officials purchased 42 acres of land that later became Lakeview Park. The spacious beach provides opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. Take a break for a stroll through the historic Rose Garden, shaped like a wheel with eight spokes to honor the local Rotary Club. Lunch is served with a lakeside view at the Sunset Café, which also offers a limited concession menu throughout the afternoon. Lakeview Park is open seven days a week from sunrise - 11 p.m., with lifeguards on duty between noon - 6 p.m.

Clay's Park Resort

13190 Patterson St. NW, North Lawrence, OH 44666

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by clays park resort (@clayspark) on Jul 25, 2020 at 8:24am PDT

2020 marks the 72nd year Clay's Park Resort has been serving as a favorite summer retreat in Northeast Ohio. Founder Otis Clay's descendants carry on his tradition at the 10-acre, sandy-bottom lake that features dueling water slides and zip lines along with a barrel roll, inflatables, and a kids' splash pad. Unlimited use of kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards is included with park admission. There's plenty of fun to be had on the ground with miniature golf, sand volleyball, basketball, and life-sized foosball. Admission fees are $20-$30 and $6 for kids ages 3-5. Park hours are noon - 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Clay's Park is adhering to a specific number of guests daily, so follow their Facebook and Twitter pages for updates. 

Edgewater Park Beach

6500 Cleveland Memorial Shoreway, Cleveland, OH 44102

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sandra Benyak (@i_am_sandrab) on Sep 17, 2019 at 7:20am PDT

In 2013, Cleveland Metroparks assumed operational control of six lakefront parks formerly run by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. A subsequent multi-million dollar upgrade included formation of Lakefront Reservation, an outdoor oasis in the heart of downtown Cleveland and site of Edgewater Park Beach. With 9,000 feet of shoreline, there's lots of room for swimming, sunbathing, and yes, surfing when the wind is right. Bring Fido along to play and swim in the roped-off, leash-free area at the western end of the beach. Landlubbers can hang out at the pier and fish or just take in the views. Adjacent Perkins Beach isn't open for swimming, but it's a great spot to look for beach glass, shells, or driftwood. Park hours are 6 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily, with lifeguards on duty from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Kelleys Island State Park Beach

920 Division St., Kelleys Island, OH 43438

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Great Lakes Loving (@greatlakesloving) on Jul 13, 2020 at 8:09pm PDT

The short ferry ride to Kelleys Island State Park enhances the sense of "getting away from it all." Along the north side of the island, you'll find a pristine 100-foot beach with stunning views. Water depth changes gradually, so there's a generous shallow area for kids. If you'd rather be on water than in it, a public boat launch and kayak rentals are available. Explore the six miles of hiking trails that include scenic vistas and historic sites. Leashed dogs are welcome in specific beach areas, so bring the whole family along. Kelleys Island State Park is open 24/7.

East Harbor State Park Beach

1169 N. Buck Rd., Marblehead, OH 43440

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Jennifer Poleon (@ohiofilmlover) on Jul 21, 2020 at 6:56pm PDT

Situated on a peninsula that extends into Lake Erie, East Harbor State Park Beach is surrounded by wetlands that offer sightings of Ohio birds and wildlife. The two-mile lakefront stretch includes a 1,500-foot beach with plentiful shade trees. While pets are not allowed on the beach, leashed dogs are permitted in other areas of the park such as the picnic area, where you and Fido can enjoy views of the shoreline. East Harbor State Park is open around the clock, year-round.

Just Another Day at the Beach

Where would you like to spend your summer vacation in Ohio? Let us know in the comments below.