Family Fun In Ohio: These Are The BEST Adventures For Families With Kids!
Discover exciting family-friendly adventures in Ohio that will create lasting memories for you and your little ones! 🌟👨👩👧👦🎢 #OhioFamilyFun #KidFriendlyAdventures #Ohio
Columbus, OH – Ohio, a state brimming with diverse attractions and activities, offers a wealth of opportunities for families seeking unforgettable adventures. From thrilling amusement parks to educational museums and breathtaking natural wonders, Ohio has something to captivate children of all ages. Embark on a journey that will not only entertain but also foster a love for exploration and learning in your young ones.
The BEST Adventures in Ohio for Families with Kids
The Buckeye State has no shortage of family-friendly attractions. In this article, we’ve curated a list of 23 adventures that will delight and inspire children of all ages, while also providing fun and enriching experiences for parents and caregivers…
1. Center of Science and Industry (Columbus, OH)
Ignite your child’s curiosity at COSI, a world-renowned science center in Columbus. With over 300 interactive exhibits, live shows, and hands-on activities, COSI offers endless opportunities for learning and discovery. Kids can explore the wonders of space in the planetarium, marvel at the power of electricity in the Electrostatic Generator show, and experiment with forces and motion in the outdoor Big Science Park.
2. Kings Island (Mason, OH)
Spend a thrilling day at Kings Island, a massive amusement park in Mason that offers rides and attractions for all ages. Young children will love the classic rides and live shows in Planet Snoopy, while older kids and adults can test their bravery on the park’s world-class roller coasters, including the record-breaking Orion. Don’t miss the park’s Soak City water park, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.
3. Ohio History Center (Columbus, OH)
Bring the past to life at the Ohio History Center in Columbus, where families can explore the state’s rich heritage through engaging exhibits and interactive experiences. Kids can step into a 1950s diner, explore a life-size replica of a frontier fort, and try their hand at historic trades like blacksmithing and weaving. The museum also features a charming 1950s-style ice cream parlor, serving up delicious scoops and sundaes.
4. Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (Cincinnati, OH)
Embark on a wildlife adventure at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, consistently ranked as one of the best zoos in the United States. Home to over 500 animal species and 3,000 plant varieties, this world-renowned zoo offers endless opportunities for learning and discovery. Kids can get up close and personal with majestic elephants, playful meerkats, and curious giraffes, and explore the zoo’s beautifully landscaped gardens and exhibits. Don’t miss the Zoo’s famous hippo, Fiona, who captured hearts around the world with her remarkable story of survival and resilience.
5. Memphis Kiddie Park (Brooklyn, OH)
Step back in time at Memphis Kiddie Park, a beloved Cleveland institution that has been delighting young children since 1952. This charming old-fashioned amusement park features 11 classic rides, including a miniature train, a carousel, and a Ferris wheel, all specifically designed for children under 50 inches tall. Parents and grandparents will enjoy reliving their own childhood memories as they watch their little ones experience the timeless joys of this nostalgic park.
6. Akron Zoo (Akron, OH)
Embark on a global wildlife adventure at the Akron Zoo, home to over 1,000 animals from around the world. Kids can get up close and personal with majestic tigers, playful otters, and curious meerkats, and learn about the importance of conservation and habitat protection. Don’t miss the zoo’s interactive exhibits, like the Legends of the Wild area, where children can explore a realistic African village and learn about the cultures and creatures of the savanna.
7. Carillon Historical Park (Dayton, OH)
Journey through Dayton’s rich history and innovation at Carillon Historical Park, a 65-acre open-air museum that brings the past to life. Families can explore historic buildings and exhibits showcasing the region’s pioneering spirit, from the Wright Brothers’ early aviation experiments to the invention of the cash register. Kids will love riding the park’s antique carousel, watching demonstrations of traditional crafts, and enjoying picnics on the beautiful park grounds.
8. The Wilds (Cumberland, OH)
Experience the thrill of an African safari right in the heart of Ohio at The Wilds, a 10,000-acre conservation center in Cumberland. Families can embark on guided tours through the park’s expansive habitats, encountering rare and endangered species like rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs. The Wilds also offers unique overnight experiences, including luxury yurts and safari-style tents, allowing families to immerse themselves in the wonders of the natural world.
9. Imagination Station (Toledo, OH)
Spark your child’s creativity and problem-solving skills at Imagination Station, a hands-on science center in Toledo. With over 300 interactive exhibits, this engaging museum encourages kids to explore the wonders of science, technology, engineering, and math through play and experimentation. From building giant structures in the Lego exhibit to experiencing the power of tornados in the Storm Center, Imagination Station offers endless opportunities for learning and fun.
10. Columbus Park of Roses (Columbus, OH)
Discover the enchanting beauty of the Columbus Park of Roses, a stunning 13-acre park that features over 12,000 rose bushes in more than 400 varieties. Families can stroll through the park’s lush gardens, picnic on the sprawling lawns, and enjoy a variety of fun outdoor activities. Kids will love exploring the park’s themed gardens, including the Storybook Garden, which brings beloved children’s tales to life with colorful displays and whimsical sculptures. The park also hosts a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, from outdoor concerts and theater performances to the annual Columbus Rose Festival.
11. Ohio Railway Museum (Worthington, OH)
All aboard for a journey through the state’s rich rail heritage at the Ohio Railway Museum in Worthington. This fascinating museum features over 100 historic locomotives and train cars, offering visitors a glimpse into the golden age of rail travel. Kids can climb aboard vintage passenger cars, explore the museum’s model train displays, and even take a ride on a real steam locomotive.
12. Young’s Jersey Dairy (Yellow Springs, OH)
Experience the simple joys of farm life at Young’s Jersey Dairy in Yellow Springs, a working dairy farm that offers a variety of family-friendly attractions. Kids can pet and feed friendly farm animals, take a hayride through the scenic countryside, and try their hand at milking a cow. The farm also features a miniature golf course, a batting cage, and a delicious on-site ice cream shop serving up homemade treats in a rainbow of flavors.
13. Maize Valley Winery & Craft Brewery (Hartville, OH)
Enjoy a day of family fun down on the farm at Maize Valley Winery & Craft Brewery in Hartville. This unique agritourism destination offers a variety of activities and attractions for all ages, from a giant corn maze and pumpkin cannon to a petting zoo and wagon rides. While parents sample the winery’s award-winning wines and craft beers, kids can play on the farm-themed playground and enjoy fresh-pressed apple cider and homemade donuts.
14. Fossil Collecting at Caesar Creek State Park (Waynesville, OH)
Step back in time and discover the ancient history of Ohio Caesar Creek in Waynesville. This unique park is located on the site of a former limestone quarry, which has yielded a wealth of well-preserved fossils from the Ordovician period, over 450 million years ago. Families can hunt for fossils in the park’s 11-acre collecting area, where trilobites, brachiopods, and other ancient sea creatures can be found in abundance. Park staff are on hand to help identify fossils and provide information about the site’s fascinating geological history. The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a visitor center with exhibits on the area’s natural and cultural heritage.
15. Mohican State Park (Loudonville, OH)
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Ohio’s great outdoors at Mohican State Park, a scenic wonderland of forests, rivers, and hiking trails. Families can explore the park’s stunning landscapes on foot or by bike, go canoeing or kayaking on the Clear Fork River, and spot native wildlife like white-tailed deer and bald eagles. The park, located in Ashland County, also offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations, from cozy cabins to modern campgrounds.
16. Penitentiary Glen Reservation (Kirtland, OH)
Explore the great outdoors at Penitentiary Glen Reservation in Kirtland, a scenic 424-acre park that offers a variety of outdoor activities and natural wonders. Families can hike the park’s eight miles of trails, which wind through forests, meadows, and wetlands, and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park also features a nature center with live animal exhibits, interactive displays, and hands-on activities that teach kids about the local flora and fauna. In the winter months, the park’s sledding hill and cross-country ski trails provide fun cold-weather adventures. Penitentiary Glen Reservation is a perfect destination for families looking to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of Ohio’s great outdoors.
17. Airstream Factory Tour (Jackson Center, OH)
Go behind the scenes of an American icon at the Airstream Factory in Jackson Center, where the world-famous silver bullet travel trailers have been produced since 1952. Families can take a guided tour of the factory floor, seeing firsthand how these timeless trailers are crafted from start to finish. The on-site Airstream Heritage Center also features a fascinating collection of vintage trailers and memorabilia, offering a glimpse into the company’s rich history and cultural impact.
18. Holden Arboretum (Kirtland, OH)
Discover the beauty and wonder of the natural world at Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, one of the largest arboretums in the United States. With over 3,600 acres of gardens, forests, and wetlands, this stunning park offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Kids can climb the 120-foot-tall Emergent Tower for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, walk among the treetops on the Murch Canopy Walk, and spot native birds and butterflies in the Butterfly Garden.
19. Castle Noel (Medina, OH)
Celebrate the magic of Christmas all year round at Castle Noel in Medina, a unique museum and entertainment complex that is sure to delight kids of all ages. Families can explore the museum’s collection of holiday movie props and memorabilia, including the Grinch’s sleigh and Ralphie’s house from “A Christmas Story.” The museum also features a variety of interactive exhibits and activities, from sliding down the “I Had That” Toyland Slide to experiencing a blizzard in the “Santa Squeeze” Chimney.
20. The Children’s Museum of Cleveland (Cleveland, OH)
Unleash your child’s creativity and imagination at The Children’s Museum of Cleveland, a vibrant play space that encourages hands-on learning and exploration. With exhibits like Adventure City, where kids can climb a two-story structure and navigate a series of tunnels and bridges, and Arts & Parts, where budding artists can create masterpieces using recycled materials, this engaging museum offers endless opportunities for play and discovery.
21. b.a. Sweetie Candy Company (Cleveland, OH)
Indulge your sweet tooth at b.a. Sweetie Candy Company in Cleveland, a massive candy emporium that has been delighting candy lovers for over 72 years. With the world’s largest selection of sweets, treats, and chocolates, this family-owned business is a true paradise for anyone with a love for confections. Kids will be amazed by the colorful displays and seemingly endless variety of candies, from classic favorites like Tootsie Rolls and Hershey’s Kisses to rare and hard-to-find treats from around the globe. Parents can stock up on bulk candy for special occasions or select from the store’s impressive array of retro and nostalgic sweets.
In addition to the candy store, b.a. Sweetie Candy Company also offers 36 holes of miniature golf, providing hours of family fun on the themed courses. After working up an appetite, visitors can relax and refuel at the old-fashioned soda shoppe, which serves up delicious ice cream, malts, shakes, and more. Whether you’re a die-hard candy fanatic or simply looking for a unique and entertaining family outing, b.a. Sweetie Candy Company is sure to satisfy your cravings for fun and sweets.
22. The Farm at Walnut Creek (Sugarcreek, OH)
Experience the simple joys of Amish country at The Farm at Walnut Creek, a working farm and petting zoo that offers a glimpse into the traditional ways of life in Ohio’s Amish communities. Kids can pet and feed a variety of friendly animals, from llamas and alpacas to goats and rabbits, and take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the beautiful rolling hills of Holmes County.
23. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum (Hamilton, OH)
Combine art and nature at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum in Hamilton, a unique outdoor museum that features over 80 monumental sculptures set amidst 335 acres of scenic parkland. Families can explore the park’s winding trails on foot or by bike, picnic in the shadow of towering sculptures, and even try their hand at creating their own masterpieces in the Art Center’s hands-on workshops.
Conclusion
Ohio’s family-friendly adventures are a true gem, providing endless opportunities for bonding, learning, and creating cherished memories. Whether you’re seeking thrills, educational experiences, or simply a chance to immerse yourselves in nature’s beauty, Ohio has it all. So, pack your bags, gather your loved ones, and set out on an extraordinary journey through this remarkable state. Your kids will thank you for the unforgettable experiences that await them in Ohio. Happy travels… have fun!
🗣 Have you been to any of these places with the kiddos? Have fave family spot? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️
