11 Best Family Vacations in Ohio
There is no shortage of exciting family vacation options in Ohio, thanks to its many bustling cities and vast parklands.
Various exciting activities await families in the state, from roller coaster riding to exploring natural wonders.
We’ve highlighted the best family-friendly vacation spots in Ohio to make it easier for you to choose.
We’ve included some insider knowledge for free to help make your vacation more exciting and enjoyable.
- Sandusky
Sandusky has plenty to offer if you and your gang are looking for fun.
Who should vacation here
Sandusky is a fantastic destination for adventurous families who enjoy spending time by the water due to its great beaches and waterfront trails.
Cedar Point, a world-famous amusement park with some of the world’s fastest and tallest roller coasters, is located in Sandusky.
Family-friendly activities in town include the Kalahari Resorts & Conventions and the Merry-Go-Round Museum.
Expert tip
The Cedar Point Hotel Breakers in Sandusky is one of the best family hotels in Ohio, thanks to its ample family rooms and prime beachfront location.
The hotel offers fantastic age-friendly amenities, including water sports, a water park, and numerous dining options.
Here’s a Hotel We Think You’ll Like Near Cedar Point: The Breakers
- Cleveland
Family-friendly activities in Cleveland range from energetic parks to informative museums.
Who should vacation here
Cleveland is sure to satisfy their travel desires whether your family is interested in sports, art, nature, or food.
The city has over a dozen parks, including a zoo, golf courses, and hiking trails.
There are numerous indoor attractions, such as the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Expert tip
Consider purchasing a Cleveland Pass if you intend to use the city’s public transportation.
The pass provides unlimited rides on the BRT, trolley, rail, and bus for one or multiple days.
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Some of Ohio’s most insanely entertaining activities for kids can be found in Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
Who should vacation here
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is perfect for getting away from it all and recharging your batteries.
Recreational opportunities such as kayaking, fishing, hiking, and biking are abundant in the park during the warmer months.
Train rides and junior ranger programs are just two kid-friendly things to do here.
The park is famous for winter sports like sledding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Expert tip
Get out of the sun and enjoy the park’s indoor activities.
An outdoor museum showcasing life in the past can be found in this park, along with four golf courses.
- Amish Country
Amish Country in Ohio is a peaceful and eye-opening destination for families.
Who should vacation
Take your kids on a trip to Amish Country to show them how to slow down and appreciate the finer things in life.
Amish Country is the perfect place for your family to relax and enjoy nature while making lasting memories.
This rural area is full of cute boutiques, restaurants, and bakeries, making it an excellent vacation spot.
Expert tip
The saltwater pool, Children’s Village, and private movie theater at Berlin Resort are just a few family-friendly entertainment options.
All the rooms are well-appointed and offer a variety of amenities to make your stay more pleasant.
- Cincinnati
Cincinnati is essential to any list of the best weekend getaways in Ohio suitable for families.
Who should vacation here
In Cincinnati, families will find a variety of attractions that will appeal to visitors of all ages and preferences.
Check out the incredible rides at Kings Island for an unforgettable vacation.
Visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden and Coney Island afterward.
Expert tip
Travel to the neighboring cities and towns in Ohio.
Keep in mind that Cincinnati is a convenient jumping-off point for visits to other nearby Ohio tourist destinations like Newport, Kentucky.
- Punderson Manor Resort & Conference Center
In need of family-friendly resorts that don’t skimp on the fun?
I can assure you that your time spent at Punderson Manor will be filled with many pleasant experiences.
Who should vacation here
Punderson Manor is the perfect place to spend a vacation because it has everything a family could want.
You can enjoy the lively playground, the nearby golf course, the evening’s entertainment, and cultural tours of the area.
The resort is perfect for those needing R&R, with its stunning lake views.
Expert tip
Stay in their cozy 2-bedroom cottage, I say!
The cottage can sleep up to 6 adults thanks to its interconnecting rooms, king-size bed, and two single beds.
In addition, it has many helpful features that will make your stay a pleasure.
- Toledo
In Toledo, you can participate in various exciting and memorable water activities.
Who should vacation here
Families who enjoy outdoor water recreation will find Toledo to be a paradise.
The city is known as Northwest’s “water recreation capital.”
Enjoy a tour of a lighthouse or charter a fishing or sailing boat to see all of Lake Erie’s inlets and coves in Toledo.
Expert tip
Families who enjoy outdoor water recreation will find Toledo to be a paradise.
The city is known as Northwest’s “water recreation capital.”
Enjoy a tour of a lighthouse or charter a fishing or sailing boat to see all of Lake Erie’s inlets and coves in Toledo.
- South Beach Resort Hotel
South Beach is, without a doubt, one of the best Ohio family vacations for splashing fun.
Who should vacation here
If you plan to spend the majority of your time on the water, South Beach Resort will be perfect for you.
In addition to a private beach area, it also has three outdoor pools.
In addition, there is a game room and sand volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts.
Expert tip
If you plan to spend the majority of your time on the water, South Beach Resort will be perfect for you.
In addition to a private beach area, it also has three outdoor pools.
In addition, there is a game room and sand volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts.
- Canton
Canton’s extraordinary museums and football ties make it a city bursting at the seams with fun.
Who should vacation here
Sports fans traveling with their families in Ohio should not miss a visit to Canton.
Canton was the first city to host an NFL game, and today it is also home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Those who aren’t into sports will still find plenty to do in the city, regardless of age.
Expert tip
Families may enjoy checking out some of Canton’s more offbeat attractions.
Cat-loving families will enjoy a visit to the Feline Historical Society.
Meanwhile, the Canton Classic Car Museum will surely be a hit with the dads.
- Dayton
Dayton is packed with excellent and informative family-friendly destinations.
Who should vacation here
Dayton is a fantastic destination for families because of the wide variety of exciting things to see and do.
Most families enjoy visiting the National Museum of the United States Air Force.
In addition to the Dayton Art Institute and Riverscape Metropark, Aullwood Audubon Center is another must-see attraction in Dayton.
Expert tip
The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is worth a visit.
It’s informative and packed with exciting activities like visiting the planetarium, aquarium, and live animal sanctuary.
- Columbus
Columbus is ideal for parents looking for multigenerational, action-packed family vacations.
Everyone will have a good time in Columbus, from infants to grandparents.
Who should vacation
Columbus offers something for everyone, making it one of the best family vacation destinations in Ohio.
Physically active families will enjoy the miles of bike and walking trails at the Scioto Mile.
Similarly, nature enthusiasts can spend countless hours admiring the breathtaking displays at Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
And then what?
The Center for Science and Industry and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are among the many kid-friendly attractions in Columbus.
Expert tip
Instead of renting a car, use the city’s bike-share program, CoGo, for a budget-friendly family vacation.
It is also free to explore some of Columbus’ parks, markets, and dynamic neighborhoods, including North Market and German Village.
