10 Scenic Day Trips In Ohio You’ll Wish You Took Sooner
Ohio might not be the first place that pops into your head when you think of scenic getaways, but trust me, this state is hiding some seriously beautiful spots.
From waterfalls tucked into cozy small towns to island adventures on Lake Erie, there’s way more to explore here than you’d expect.
I’ve spent weekends discovering these hidden spots, and honestly, I wish I’d started sooner—so let’s make sure you don’t make the same mistake!
1. Chagrin Falls – Small-Town Waterfall Magic
Picture this: a charming downtown where a 20-foot waterfall crashes right through the middle of Main Street. Sounds made up, right? But Chagrin Falls in Ohio is the real deal, and it’s one of those places that feels like stepping into a postcard.
I stumbled upon this spot during a random Sunday drive, and I couldn’t stop grinning (pun totally intended). The falls are mesmerizing, especially after a good rain when they’re roaring with power. You can grab an ice cream cone from the famous Popcorn Shop nearby and just sit on a bench watching the water tumble over the rocks.
Stroll through the boutique shops, snap a million photos, and soak in that small-town vibe that makes you forget about your Monday morning alarm. Seriously, this spot is pure magic wrapped in waterfall mist.
2. Granville – A Touch Of New England In Ohio
Ever wish you could teleport to a quaint New England village without the plane ticket? Granville’s got you covered. This adorable town looks like it was plucked straight from Vermont, complete with tree-lined streets, white church steeples, and historic brick buildings that ooze charm.
Walking around Granville feels like you’re in a movie set—seriously, where’s the camera crew? I visited during fall, and the colorful leaves made everything look even more enchanting. The local shops are perfect for browsing, and there are cozy cafes where you can fuel up on coffee and pastries.
Don’t miss the Granville Inn if you’re feeling fancy, or just wander around Denison University’s beautiful campus. Ohio really pulled off a New England vibe here, and honestly, it’s almost better because there’s way less traffic getting there!
3. Hocking Hills State Park (Logan) – Ohio’s Natural Wonderland
Hocking Hills is basically Ohio’s answer to “Why would I travel anywhere else?” With its towering cliffs, hidden caves, and waterfalls that look straight out of a fantasy novel, this place is an absolute must-see. Located near Logan, it’s packed with trails that range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
Old Man’s Cave is the star attraction—a massive recess cave with a waterfall that’ll make your jaw drop. I hiked there on a misty morning, and it felt like I’d wandered into another world entirely. Ash Cave and Cedar Falls are equally stunning and offer different vibes depending on what you’re after.
Pack a picnic, wear sturdy shoes, and prepare to have your mind blown by Ohio’s natural beauty. Spoiler alert: you’ll be planning your next visit before you even leave!
4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Waterfalls And Wild Trails Between Cities
Who says you need to drive hours into the wilderness for a national park experience? Cuyahoga Valley sits right between Cleveland and Akron, making it the most convenient escape from city life you’ll ever find. And convenient doesn’t mean boring—this park is loaded with waterfalls, rolling hills, and miles of trails.
Brandywine Falls is the crown jewel here, a 65-foot cascade that’s absolutely breathtaking no matter the season. I love biking the Towpath Trail along the old Ohio & Erie Canal; it’s flat, peaceful, and perfect for clearing your head. You might even spot a heron or two hanging out by the water.
Whether you’re into hiking, biking, or just chilling in nature, Cuyahoga Valley has something for everyone. Plus, bragging rights for visiting a national park in Ohio? Priceless.
5. Glen Helen Nature Preserve (Yellow Springs) – A Forest Full Of Secrets
Tucked away near the quirky town of Yellow Springs, Glen Helen Nature Preserve feels like Ohio’s best-kept secret. With over 1,000 acres of forest, streams, and waterfalls, this place is a nature lover’s paradise that somehow stays wonderfully uncrowded.
The Yellow Spring itself—a natural spring that gives the town its name—flows year-round and creates this magical little oasis. I spent an afternoon wandering the trails here, and every turn revealed something new: a hidden waterfall, a moss-covered bridge, or a peaceful glen where you could just sit and breathe.
After exploring, head into Yellow Springs for some eclectic shopping and amazing food. The whole area has this artsy, free-spirited vibe that makes you want to move there immediately. Fair warning: you might fall in love with this forest and never want to leave!
6. Holden Arboretum (Kirtland) – Walk Among The Treetops
Ever wanted to walk through the sky like some kind of woodland superhero? Holden Arboretum in Kirtland lets you do exactly that with its incredible canopy walk suspended 65 feet above the forest floor. It’s equal parts thrilling and peaceful—weird combo, but it totally works.
I’ll admit, I was a little nervous stepping onto that swaying walkway at first, but the views were so worth it. You’re literally walking through the treetops, surrounded by leaves and birdsong, feeling like you’re part of the forest itself. The Emergent Tower takes you even higher—120 feet up—for panoramic views that’ll make your Instagram followers jealous.
Beyond the canopy walk, the arboretum has miles of beautiful trails, gorgeous gardens, and seasonal displays that change throughout the year. Nature therapy at its finest, folks!
7. Wabash Cannonball Trail (Montpelier) – Biking Through History
History buffs and biking enthusiasts, unite! The Wabash Cannonball Trail near Montpelier follows an old railway line that once carried trains through northwest Ohio. Now it’s a peaceful, paved trail perfect for biking, walking, or rollerblading through the countryside.
What I love about this trail is how it takes you through genuine small-town Ohio—past farms, through tiny villages, and over historic bridges that have stories to tell. There’s something really cool about pedaling along the same route where steam locomotives once chugged. The trail stretches over 60 miles, so you can pick whatever distance works for you.
Pack some snacks, bring a friend, and enjoy the flat, easy ride through landscapes that remind you why Ohio’s heartland is called that. Plus, no hills means more energy for post-ride ice cream stops!
8. Dillon State Park (Nashport) – Lakeside Peace And Forest Trails
Sometimes you just need a day by the water, and Dillon State Park near Nashport delivers exactly that. With its massive 1,560-acre lake surrounded by rolling hills and thick forests, this park is the definition of peaceful escape.
I spent a lazy Saturday here kayaking across the calm water, and honestly, it was the most relaxed I’d felt in months. The lake is perfect for fishing, swimming, or just floating around pretending your responsibilities don’t exist. If you prefer land adventures, there are over 18 miles of hiking trails that wind through the woods and along the shoreline.
The park also has great camping spots if you want to extend your day trip into a weekend getaway. Whether you’re active or just want to chill lakeside with a good book, Dillon State Park has your back.
9. Marietta Historic Downtown – Where Ohio’s Story Began
Marietta holds the title of Ohio’s first permanent settlement, and walking through its historic downtown feels like flipping through a living history book. Located where the Muskingum River meets the Ohio River, this charming town is packed with beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture and fascinating stories.
I’m a sucker for history, so wandering past the Victorian homes and brick-lined streets totally made my day. The Campus Martius Museum gives you the full scoop on Ohio’s pioneer days, and the riverfront is perfect for a relaxing stroll. There are quirky antique shops, cozy cafes, and even a historic castle you can tour.
Marietta proves that Ohio has deep roots and plenty of character. Spend a day here, and you’ll understand why this riverside town has charmed visitors for over two centuries straight!
10. Put-in-Bay – Ohio’s Island Escape On Lake Erie
Wait, Ohio has islands? Yep! Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island in Lake Erie is Ohio’s ultimate island getaway, and it’s way more fun than you’d expect. Getting there requires a short ferry ride, which immediately makes the whole trip feel like an adventure.
Once you arrive, rent a golf cart (it’s the island’s unofficial transportation method) and cruise around exploring. Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial towers over the island, offering incredible views of Lake Erie if you’re brave enough to climb it. The downtown area is packed with restaurants, shops, and a surprisingly lively atmosphere, especially in summer.
I visited on a warm August day, and the island vibes were immaculate—sunshine, lake breezes, and that vacation feeling even though I was still in Ohio. It’s the perfect day trip for anyone craving something different!