November 2nd is National Ohio Day!
There are so many states to visit in the United States that choosing which one can actually be kind of intimidating. Because of this, a lot of the time people end up just going for the most obvious choices like New York, or California. However, many of America’s lesser-known states have huge amounts to offer the more discerning traveller.
It really all depends on the kinds of things that you’re looking for, whether it’s history, culture, nightlife, shopping, or natural beauty. However, if you want somewhere that combines all of those things together, then Ohio may be the perfect place for you! With that in mind here are just a few reasons to make Ohio your next vacation destination!
The Parks
America is famed for its national parks and for good reason, many of them are absolutely breathtaking, but Ohio’s national parks can definitely hold their own with many of the nation’s more famous parks.
If you’re the outdoorsy type who loves nothing more than being able to get out into nature, then Hocking Hills State Park is perfect for you. With miles of trails to walk along and beauty to see all along the way, places like Hocking Hills are the best possible way to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Another amazing park is the Highfield Discovery Garden at Glenwood Gardens.
Last year for Super Bowl Sunday, my son and I took a day trip to see a few of Ohio’s hidden gems which not only included the Highfield Discovery Garden, but also included Jungle Jim’s International Market; both conveniently located in Cincinnati – which brings me to the beautiful cities of Ohio.
Read more about our trip to Cincinnati, Ohio here.
The Cities
Of course, if the excitement of city life is what you’re after then Ohio has you covered there, as well. Cleveland and Cincinnati are the most famous of Ohio’s cities, but there are plenty of other amazingly vibrant places to spend your time, as well.
Places like Wilmington have a lot to offer you, as well. Spending the night in the Holiday Inn at Roberts Centre allows you to spend your day exploring this great city filled with local history and culture. Just because you’re not in the biggest cities in the country, doesn’t mean that there aren’t things to see and experience. You won’t be disappointed!
The Islands
Not only do you have parks and cities to enjoy but the islands are right on your doorstep, as well!
Did you know?
The small town of Put-In-Bay might not be particularly large or well known, but it’s gaining a reputation as an amazing tourist destination thanks to being home to one of the largest hotels in the world, as well as many historic sites like Perry’s Cave, an important spot during the war of 1812 and the location of an amazing hidden lake.
Final Thoughts
One of the wonderful things about many of America’s slightly lesser known states is that they often have far smaller crowds of tourists than places like New York or California. That means that not only do you get to experience plenty of amazing culture, and history, but you get to do it without being constantly crowded and jostled by a dozen other tourists – all trying to do the exact same thing.
So don’t be afraid to go off the beaten path a little bit and explore all of the other amazing things that the USA has to offer.
This post first appeared on 02/09/18.
