If you're from Ohio, you may or may not be aware of everything it has to offer. The Buckeye State is full of hidden gems and treasures, so don't be stuck sitting at home in your city or small town this summer thinking there's nothing to do. Get out there and start adventuring.
Here are 8 places you can visit and explore in Ohio this summer for the wanderer in you.
1. Hocking Hills
If you're an Ohio University student or alumni, you've at least heard of the wonder that is Hocking Hills. No matter where you're from, you should definitely take a trip to this beautiful work of nature. You can go hiking, marvel at the waterfalls and rock formations and check out the caves of Old Man's Cave.
2. Ohio State Reformatory
For anyone looking for a bit of a thrill and a sense of history, head out to Mansfield and check out the Ohio State Reformatory. You can take a tour or go on a "ghost hunt," where you can explore the prison between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. Who knows? Maybe you'll see a ghost.
3. Easton Town Center
If you're a big shopper, you should probably do a little splurging at Easton Town Center in Columbus. Easton has over 200 shops and restaurants. And hey, if you're not looking to spend a lot of money, you can always window shop and people watch.
4. Cedar Point
Thrill-seekers, roller coaster enthusiasts and the like already know about Cedar Point. It's an obvious summer go-to for hundreds of people. Even if you're not big on roller coasters, head up to Sandusky anyway and enjoy Lake Erie, revel in the scenery and check out the other attractions the amusement park has to offer.
5. Put-in-Bay
Historic monuments, wineries, boating, golfing, parasailing, etc.-- this village near Sandusky has so much to offer. Summer is obviously the season for outdoor activities, so instead of sitting inside, enjoy the weather on this little island. I mean, it is the closest you can get to "tropical" in Ohio.
6. Helltown
If the Ohio State Reformatory isn't enough for you, Helltown is another treasure for lovers of all that is spooky. Located in Summit County, Helltown is full of abandoned buildings, creepy bridges and even a spot known as the "end of the world." You might want to do some research before deciding if you want to head out there, but it's definitely an option for anyone looking for some extra adrenaline on a summer night.
7. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
A staple of Cleveland, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is full of history and artifacts. If you enjoy museums, rock music and cool architecture, add it to your list of places to visit when you're in northern Ohio.
8. Zoo
Whether it's in Columbus, Toledo, Cincinnati, Akron or Cleveland, the zoo is a must this summer. It's the perfect place to hang out with your family and friends on a nice day. No matter how old you are, it's always exciting checking out all of the wildlife and getting a feel for other continents.
Get outside this summer and experience a little more of Ohio. The state has more to offer than you think, so head out to all the awesome attractions and discover some of your own!
