39 Top Family Activities in Ohio for Kids & Teens

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39 Top Family Activities in Ohio for Kids & Teens

Are you looking for fun and engaging family activities to enjoy with your kids and teens while in Ohio? You’ve come to the right place!

Here, we’ll be discussing some of the best family-friendly activities this wonderful state has to offer. From theme parks to museums, your kids & teens are sure to have a great time!

Planning a trip to Ohio? Keep up on the COVID-19 information concerning travel to Ohio here.

things to do in Ohio With Kids & Teens

Ohio is known for its incredible historical sites, educational institutions, and overall family-friendly atmosphere. Traveling to Ohio with your entire family is the perfect way to explore everything the state has to offer. From spending time at botanical gardens and petting zoos, visiting the renowned Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, or hitting an amusement park near Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio’s attractions make for unforgettable experiences.

For families that have young kids or teenagers who have an interest in learning new things, there are several excellent museums sprinkled throughout the state. The Cleveland Museum of Natural History and The Children’s Museum of Cleveland are two wonderful places to explore that offer hands-on exhibits and interesting artifacts for kids of every age. For those looking for more adventurous activities, you can explore the Cincinnati Museum Center or learn about the history of rock music at The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum conveniently located in Cleveland.

Family Activities in Ohio: Amusement Parks

And for a day enjoying something truly unique that will remain unforgettable for your whole family, you can visit any one of Ohio’s world-famous amusement parks such as Kings Island Amusement Park near Cincinnati, Cedar Point near Sandusky, or Columbus’ own Zoombezi Bay Waterpark. With rides, pools, rivers, and even light shows – these parks have something suitable for everyone’s tastes – regardless of age.

Whether you’re looking to take a weekend trip or stay a few weeks in Ohio exploring all it has to offer – start planning now so your entire family can enjoy all that the United States’ seventh-largest state has to offer!

There is so much waiting for you in Ohio! The entire state is dotted with exciting places to explore learn and take in all that is to see in Ohio with kids and teens. Choose a city break or a relaxing country adventure. There’s plenty of variety available when you visit Ohio with kids and teens.

Your family will be captivated by all of the history and exciting places to explore and learn about. These Ohio family travel destinations are perfect places for an exciting family travel itinerary of this mid-West US State. If you are wanting to road trip or to learn virtually, keep reading because you can explore and have awesome adventures in the beautiful state of Ohio with kids & teens.

Family Activities in Ohio: Road Trip!

Ohio families looking for a fun and educational way to spend quality time together should consider taking a road trip to explore the great places The Buckeye State has to offer. From interactive exhibits that teach about Ohio’s natural history, to special events and festivals around the state, there are plenty of fun things for kids and teens to do. So fill up the car and head out on an adventure; explore these top family activities in Ohio that you won’t want to miss!

Visiting Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great place for the whole family to soak up some nature. Stretching between Cleveland and Akron, the national park is well known for its stunning waterfalls, rocky peaks, meandering rivers, vast forests, picturesque landscapes, and colorful wildlife. Get lost in winding trails spanning dozens of miles or paddle around beautiful lakes. It’s also an ideal spot for camping with family or friends – with nearby amenities such as bike rentals and camp stores that make it an easy weekend activity.

Family Activities in Ohio: Head South

Heading south from Cuyahoga will bring you to the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton. This vast indoor facility spans 19 acres housing both interactive exhibits like guided touch-screen tours about aviation history as well as outdoor attractions such as restored airplanes from yesteryear or powerful jet fighters from recent years. There is also an IMAX theater within the museum where guests can watch 3D documentaries about space exploration or even take part in a simulated space mission experience! It’s te perfect place to explore aviation history.

No matter what type of activities parents are wanting for their family – exciting outdoor adventures like whitewater rafting, peaceful touring through country farms, or fascinating indoor exhibits – there is no shortage of enjoyable experiences in Ohio that will create lifelong memories together!

Make a road trip to Ohio memorable.

Where do you start an Ohio road trip experience? there really is so much to do! No matter what make sure you include a few museums, outdoor festivals, and fun family activities everyone will enjoy. Make a road trip to Ohio with kids & teens a memorable vacation for the whole family.

Does your family do road trips? Ours does! In our family, road-tripping is a series of car journeys from one destination to another to do a field trip. A 5-day road trip usually means at least three of those days will be filled with activities and attractions. But if you live locally or regionally, you may decide to take that road trip in smaller chunks and plan several field trips around Ohio. Below are all the resources you need. Included are super fun ideas that will also super-size your child’s learning about US History, Geography, and famous people & places. So have fun using the world as your classroom with intentional family travel. Let’s explore Ohio with kids and teens!

Family Activities in Ohio: Historical Sites & Parks

Ohio is an excellent place for families to explore together, discover new experiences, and make special memories. Whether it’s exploring the Great Lakes Region or visiting one of Ohio’s many state parks and national parks there is something for everyone. Spend a day out at Lake Erie, visit a historical site, or explore the diverse ecosystems of Cuyahoga Valley National Park – there are plenty of fun places you can go with your family to enjoy quality time together.

The Ohio River forms a natural border between Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky, so there are lots of interesting cultural activities in this region. Take a trip down the historic Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills State Park and stop off at Olentangy Indian Caverns along the way – these caves house prehistoric artifacts that offer fascinating glimpses into ancient times. National parks such as Cuyahoga Valley National Park are home to diverse wildlife, so bringing children here offers fascinating opportunities to explore and connect with nature in unique ways.

Historical Sites For The Whole Family

Apart from nature explorations, there are also plenty of historical sites that the whole family can enjoy visiting during their stay in Ohio. Head down to the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center where visitors will be able to gain an understanding of African-American history through educational displays and multimedia exhibits. Or find out more about one of Ohio’s most famous heroines at the Harriet Beecher Stowe House located in Cincinnati where visitors get an up-close view into her life as an author and abolitionist during civil war times.

Ohio offers numerous outdoor activities suitable for families with children of all ages – from little ones who want a hands-on experience discovering nature’s beauty to teens looking for fun places like amusement parks or escape rooms. Whether it be some adventure on Lake Erie or uncovering stories from olden times – these top family activities will bring your clan closer together while making priceless memories that last forever.

Ohio: Historical Sites & Parks

Family Activities in Ohio: Museums, Galleries

It’s no secret that Ohio has something for everyone when it comes to fun family activities. From the Franklin Park Conservatory and the Center of Science and Industry in Columbus to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland, Ohio has plenty of amazing attractions to explore with your children. But what are the best things to do in Ohio for kids and teens?

The Franklin Park Conservatory is an excellent way to get your kids excited about plants and landscaping. Take a tour of its 14-acre outdoor gardens or explore its 13,000-square-foot indoor welcome center. There’s even a special toddler area where kids can experience nature up close! Additionally, you’ll want to check out Big Science Park located here – it’s full of science-themed attractions perfect for fueling your child’s curiosity.

For something different, check out the Cleveland Museum of Art’s interactive galleries and artist demonstrations. With something new each season, there’s no shortage of family activities here. You also won’t want to miss out on The Center of Science & Industry (COSI) located in downtown Columbus – this institution offers over 300 interactive science experiences sure to excite everyone! And don’t forget about the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland– it’s a great place for parents and kids alike!

No matter where you go in Ohio for family activities there is sure to be plenty of fun around every corner – so don’t forget these amazing places when planning your next family vacation.

Ohio: Museums, Galleries

Family Activities in Ohio: Zoos & Aquariums

When it comes to family activities in Ohio, you’re never short of things to do with your kids and teens. Whether you’re looking for great outdoor adventure, farm animals, or exotic animals, there are plenty of attractions that can provide a great time while also aiding in your family’s learning and growth. One such activity is Zoos & Aquariums located around Ohio. Here, families can explore the wonders of exotic marine and animal life for an unforgettable experience.

Cleveland’s own Zoo and The Rainforest offers over 200 animal species from six continents and provides visitors an opportunity to get up close with mermaids, dolphins, lemurs, sloths, sea lions, and more! Similarly, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to creative play spaces along with the chance to observe more than 10,000 animals in their natural habitats. Other great places include:

  • Young’s Jersey Dairy near Dayton offers a petting zoo with lessons on how to milk a cow;
  • Cleveland Metroparks Zoo which has everything from Open Air exhibits to Splash Landings Waterpark;
  • Akron Zoological Park for petting goats or feeding giraffes;
  • The Wilds near Zanesville where children can have unforgettable encounters with rare species like giraffes; or
  • Toledo Zoo & Aquarium features all kinds of aquatic life from sharks to penguins!

Families looking for something different could also try Cedar Point Amusement Park which has something for everyone from hair-raising roller coasters to thrilling water rides – plenty of fun for young teenagers and even parents who like excitement! Regardless of what outdoor adventure you choose amongst these family-friendly destinations in Ohio, you’ll be sure to have loads of fun in store.

Ohio: Zoos & Aquariums

Family Activities in Ohio: Add These To Your Itinerary

If you are visiting Ohio and are looking for some fun family activities to add to your itinerary, there is much more to do than meets the eye! Central Ohio has so many attractions and things to do with kids and teens that will make your trip an unforgettable one. From exploring downtown Columbus and the Pro Football Hall of Fame to a German village, there is something the whole family can enjoy!

Kings Island amusement park in Mason, Ohio is a fun spot where guests of all ages can experience thrilling rides, water riptides, and live shows; making it a perfect place for all kids & teens alike. Also, consider taking a trip back in time at The Loveland Castle Museum located in Loveland or explore COSI which is a science center that features hands-on interactive exhibits.

If outdoor recreation is perhaps more your style then head on over to Indian Lake located near Bellefontaine to partake in fishing, water-skiing, or riding wave runners. Finally, enjoy the sweet scents of maple syrup during fall months on Mapleside Farms located in Brunswick – home of the world’s largest corn maze.

Overall you’re sure to have an incredible time experiencing all these attractions located throughout Ohio ensuring your family will have plenty of memories to look back on for years forward!

Adventurous Family Activities in Ohio

Ohio offers so many exciting things to do in addition to having fun enjoying all the activities centered around the state. Are you finding it hard to fit it all in or afford to do it all while you are visiting? Luckily, there are great online resources at many of the museums and parks so you can keep learning about Ohio.

Family Activities in Ohio: Use Virtual Travel & Learning

Make the most of learning about Ohio by taking a few virtual field trips and incorporating the Ohio State Study pack into your pre-and post-visit activities. Your kids will enjoy hands-on activities and museums more when they have a little understanding of the people and places they will be visiting. Add in a good book, some digital activities to learn history and geography, and some super art for easy ways to inspire and educate. It’s all in these US State Study resources.

Family Activities in Ohio: Use The World As Your Classroom

The Ohio State Study pack makes it easy for your family to have fun learning about Ohio at home (virtually) or on the road.

Learn About Ohio‘s Famous People

Presidents

  • James A. Garfield 
  • Ulysses S. Grant
  • Warren G. Harding 
  • Benjamin Harrison 
  • Rutherford B. Hayes
  • William McKinley
  • William Howard Taft

Aviators/Astronauts

  • Wilbur Wright & Orville Wright – Aviators 
  • Neil Armstrong – Astronaut 
  • John Glenn – Astronaut 

Leaders/Inventors/Entertainers

  • Annie Oakley – Entertainer/Sharp Shooter
  • William Sherman – Civil War General
  • George Armstrong Custer – Civil War General
  • Tecumseh – Native American Leader 
  • Thomas Edison – Inventor

Learn About Ohio’s Famous Landmarks:

  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park 
  • Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park 
  • First Ladies National Historic Site 
  • Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
  • James A. Garfield National Historic Site 
  • William Howard Taft National Historic Site

You will also find resources for science, art, and geography to round out a packed week (or longer) of learning resources for kids aged 3rd grade to 12th grade.

The Ohio State Study pack has all the resources in a PDF. You and your kids can pick and choose which ones you want to complete. It is a carefully curated course for middle/high schoolers. There are exciting videos and selected lessons so your family can easily learn online.

Use The World As Your Classroom

Notebooking Ideas

If you are wanting to make sure your kids are doing active learning, incorporate notebooking pages allowing them to capture important details while watching videos, reading articles, and interacting with each state’s information.   

This is the perfect opportunity to start using notebooking pages. Learn how to use them with virtual learning, and you will find they are welcome additions that allow you to step away from workbooks and teach your child how to listen, observe, and respond to what they are learning in a natural way. – even while on vacation.

Exploring The Midwest?

Michigan, Indiana & Illinois are exciting stops for families that love to use the world as their textbook. These posts will help you homeschool, travel, and learn together. Have fun! Below are a few more resources to help you use the world as your classroom.

Explore More!

Going On A Trip? Grab This!

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