Ohio Parents: Plan Your “Family Bucket List” — 10 Must-Do Activities Before Kids Grow Up!
Create unforgettable memories with your kids through these Ohio adventures that blend fun, learning, and bonding. 🌐 #News #ColumbusOH #Ohio #Family
COLUMBUS, OH — As Ohio parents, we know how fast childhood flies by, and before you know it, your little ones are off to college or starting their own journeys. A family bucket list is the perfect way to make the most of these fleeting years, packing in experiences that spark joy, curiosity, and connection.
Ohio’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and hidden gems offer endless opportunities for unforgettable family moments. From outdoor thrills to cultural treasures, here are 10 must-do activities to add to your Ohio family bucket list before your kids grow up.
1. Explore the Wilds of Cumberland
Take your family on a safari-style adventure at The Wilds, one of the largest conservation centers in North America. Located in Cumberland, this 10,000-acre preserve lets you spot rhinos, giraffes, and zebras on an open-range safari tour. Kids will love the up-close animal encounters, while parents appreciate the educational focus on conservation. Book a twilight tour for a magical evening under the stars.
2. Ride the Roller Coasters at Cedar Point
No Ohio childhood is complete without a trip to Cedar Point, the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World” in Sandusky. With 18 coasters, from kid-friendly rides to adrenaline-pumping giants like Steel Vengeance, there’s something for every thrill level. Plan a summer visit to enjoy the park’s water rides and beachfront views along Lake Erie. Pro tip: Stay at Hotel Breakers for early park access.
3. Discover Science at COSI in Columbus
Fuel your kids’ curiosity at COSI (Center of Science and Industry) in Columbus, voted one of the best science museums in the country. Hands-on exhibits like the Dinosaur Gallery, Ocean Poseidome, and Planetarium ignite imaginations. Don’t miss the High Voltage show, where lightning bolts crackle before your eyes. It’s a perfect blend of fun and learning for all ages.
4. Hike and Canoe in Hocking Hills
Hocking Hills State Park is Ohio’s outdoor playground, offering family-friendly hiking trails and canoeing adventures. Trek to Old Man’s Cave or Cedar Falls, where kids can scramble over rocks and splash in streams. Rent a canoe on the Hocking River for a relaxing paddle surrounded by lush forests. Fall visits dazzle with vibrant foliage, but any season promises natural wonder.
5. Step Back in Time at Ohio Village
Bring history to life at Ohio Village, a living history museum in Columbus. This recreated 19th-century town lets kids try old-fashioned games, watch blacksmiths at work, and dress up in period costumes. Seasonal events like the All Hallows’ Eve celebration add extra charm. It’s a hands-on way to connect with Ohio’s past while making modern memories.
6. Cheer at a Cleveland Guardians Game
Take your family out to the ballgame at Progressive Field in Cleveland. The Guardians’ home games are a lively, affordable way to bond over hot dogs, seventh-inning stretches, and the thrill of a home run. Kids love the interactive KidsLand area with mini batting cages. Spring and summer games offer the best weather for a classic American experience.
7. Marvel at the Toledo Zoo
The Toledo Zoo is a bucket-list must for its award-winning exhibits and family-friendly vibe. From the Arctic Encounter’s polar bears to the Aquarium’s touch tanks, kids get up close with wildlife. The zoo’s Tembo Trail, featuring elephants and rhinos, is a highlight. Plan a visit during the summer Zoo Camps or winter Lights Before Christmas for extra magic.
8. Create Art at the Cleveland Museum of Art
Inspire creativity at the Cleveland Museum of Art, where free general admission makes it easy to explore with kids. The interactive ArtLens Studio offers hands-on activities like digital painting and sculpture-building, perfect for young artists to spark imagination. Check the museum’s family events calendar for storytimes and art-making workshops tailored to kids.
9. Camp Under the Stars at Mohican State Park
Build lifelong memories with a family camping trip at Mohican State Park in Loudonville. Pitch a tent, roast marshmallows, and stargaze in this scenic retreat. Daytime adventures include hiking the Lyons Falls trail or tubing down the Mohican River. Cabins and yurts are available for families craving a bit more comfort. It’s a tech-free way to reconnect with each other and nature.
10. Savor Sweet Treats on a Donut Trail
Turn a family outing into a delicious adventure with the Butler County Donut Trail. This self-guided tour takes you to 13 mom-and-pop donut shops, each with unique flavors like maple bacon or blueberry cake. Kids will love sampling treats and collecting stamps for their Donut Trail passport. It’s a tasty way to explore small-town Ohio and support local businesses.
Start Your Family Bucket List Today
These 10 activities are just the beginning of your Ohio family bucket list. Each offers a chance to laugh, learn, and grow closer as a family, creating stories your kids will share for years to come. Pick one to try this weekend, and keep adding to your list as you explore the Buckeye State.
What’s the first adventure you’ll check off? Share your family’s favorite Ohio experiences in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other to make every moment count!
RELATED TOPICS: Family | Humor | Lifestyle | Travel
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
Your opinion matters! Leave a comment below and join the discussion. We love hearing from you!
