9 Ohio Day Trips That Are Perfect For A September Weekend Adventure

There’s something magical about September in Ohio.

The sticky heat of summer fades, the chill of winter hasn’t yet arrived, and the whole state bursts into color with fiery maples and golden fields.

It’s the season of crisp hikes, cozy small towns, and weekend escapes that feel both refreshing and adventurous.

After years of exploring every corner of the Buckeye State, I can confidently say these nine day trips capture the very best of Ohio in the fall — and each one is worth adding to your September bucket list.

1. Hocking Hills State Park: Nature’s Dramatic Playground

The first time I hiked Old Man’s Cave, my jaw literally dropped at the sandstone cliffs draped in early fall colors. September transforms Hocking Hills into a photographer’s paradise with fewer crowds than summer months.

Waterfalls flow with renewed vigor after late summer rains, creating magical moments as sunlight filters through the changing leaves. Pack a picnic and spend hours exploring Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, and Rock House—each with its own unique geological story.

My favorite September tradition? Hitting the trails early morning when mist still hangs in the air, giving the whole forest an enchanted feel. The moderate temperatures make even the longer hikes comfortable, unlike the sweaty summer treks I’ve endured!

2. Put-In-Bay: Island Escape Without Summer Crowds

Last September, I caught the ferry to Put-In-Bay and couldn’t believe I’d waited so long to visit during this magical month. The island vibe persists, but without the crushing summer crowds that can make July visits feel like a sardine convention.

Rent a golf cart (my preferred island transportation!) and cruise to Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial for panoramic Lake Erie views. The water remains warm enough for kayaking adventures, while vineyards offer tastings with harvest-season energy.

Waterfront restaurants still serve fresh perch and walleye, but you’ll actually score a table with a view. The sunset ferry ride back to the mainland? Pure magic with those golden September skies reflecting off the water.

3. Amish Country: Rural Splendor During Harvest Season

Horse-drawn buggies clip-clopping down country roads while farmers bring in the harvest—Holmes County in September feels like stepping into another century. My family makes an annual pilgrimage here, and we’re always charmed by the slower pace and simpler pleasures.

September brings farm stands overflowing with fresh produce, homemade pies, and local cheese. The rolling hills showcase patchwork fields being harvested, creating a living landscape painting that changes daily.

Wander through Berlin or Millersburg for handcrafted furniture and quilts. Don’t miss Lehman’s Hardware Store in Kidron—a wonderland of non-electric tools and housewares that fascinates even my tech-obsessed teenagers. And yes, I always leave with at least three types of homemade jam!

4. The Wilds: Safari Adventure In Ohio’s Heartland

“You went on safari in Ohio?” That’s the question I get whenever I show friends photos from The Wilds. This conservation center sprawls across nearly 10,000 acres of reclaimed mining land, now home to endangered species from around the globe.

September offers the perfect weather for open-air safari tours where you’ll spot rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs roaming freely across the grasslands. The animals are particularly active in cooler fall temperatures, making sightings more frequent and exciting.

Book a Wildside Tour for up-close encounters that’ll have you questioning whether you’re really in Ohio. My personal highlight? Feeding lettuce to a Masai giraffe who seemed just as curious about me as I was about her. The conservation work happening here is genuinely inspiring.

5. Downtown Columbus: Urban Adventure With Fall Flair

Columbus in September hits differently—the college football energy electrifies the city while perfect temperatures make urban exploration a delight. I spent a recent September Saturday wandering through the Short North Arts District, hopping between galleries showcasing local artists.

The riverfront Scioto Mile offers peaceful walks with skyline views, especially beautiful as evening approaches. German Village’s brick streets and charming gardens begin their seasonal transformation, making it perfect for architectural photography.

Fuel your adventures at North Market, where local vendors serve everything from Vietnamese to Somali cuisine. My secret September spot? Franklin Park Conservatory’s outdoor gardens, where seasonal plantings create a colorful retreat from city hustle. The butterfly exhibit always makes me feel like I’ve stepped into a magical realm!

6. Medina: Small-Town Charm With Autumn Elegance

Stumbling upon Medina during a random September drive changed my weekend getaway game forever. This picturesque town centers around one of Ohio’s most beautiful historic squares, where the Victorian-era architecture feels straight out of a movie set.

September brings farmers markets to the square on Saturday mornings, filling the air with the scent of fresh-baked goods and locally grown produce. The surrounding shops offer everything from antiques to artisanal crafts, perfect for early holiday shopping without the winter weather stress.

Castle Noel, America’s largest year-round Christmas entertainment attraction, provides a quirky counterpoint to autumn explorations. My unexpected favorite? The Root Candle Company flagship store, where the fall-scented candles transport you to a cozy cabin in the woods even as you stand in the historic building.

7. Cleveland & Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Urban-Natural Combo

Who says you can’t have city excitement and natural beauty in one day trip? My perfect September Saturday starts at West Side Market in Cleveland, grabbing coffee and pastries before heading to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame when crowds are manageable.

After lunch, I drive just 30 minutes south to Cuyahoga Valley National Park where the Towpath Trail offers miles of flat, scenic hiking alongside the historic canal. The Brandywine Falls area showcases 65-foot cascades framed by early autumn foliage—a photographer’s dream!

Finish your day with dinner back in Cleveland’s Tremont neighborhood, where restaurant patios remain comfortable through September evenings. The Flats area along the river offers sunset views that make even locals stop and stare. This urban-natural pairing showcases Ohio’s versatility in one perfect day.

8. Lake Snowden: Hidden Spot For Outdoor Enthusiasts

“Where exactly is Lake Snowden?” That’s what my friends asked when I suggested this hidden gem for our September camping trip. This 675-acre recreation area near Athens offers peaceful water activities without the motorboat noise of larger lakes.

Rent a kayak to glide across waters reflecting blue skies and emerging fall colors. The 7-mile trail system winds through woodlands and meadows, providing perfect moderate hikes for all ages. September brings migrating birds to the wetlands, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Fishing improves as waters cool, with bass and catfish being common catches. My personal tradition? Grabbing local craft drink from nearby Jackie O’s brewery for lakeside sunset appreciation. The lack of crowds makes Lake Snowden feel like your own private nature retreat, especially during weekday visits.

9. Yellow Springs: Bohemian Vibes Meet Natural Beauty

Yellow Springs stole my heart during a spontaneous September road trip years ago. This artsy village radiates creative energy, from colorful street art to unique shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to vintage vinyl records.

Glen Helen Nature Preserve offers miles of trails leading to the actual yellow spring that gave the town its name. September temperatures make hiking comfortable while the changing leaves create a magical forest atmosphere. The limestone cliffs and bubbling streams feel worlds away from everyday life.

Young’s Jersey Dairy just outside town serves farm-fresh ice cream that tastes even better after a day of exploration. Their homemade pumpkin ice cream debuts in September—worth the trip alone! The town’s eclectic energy, combined with natural beauty, creates a day trip that refreshes both body and creative spirit.