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Ohio is a state that offers a wide range of activities for families with kids. From natural wonders to amusement parks, museums, and indoor play areas, there are plenty of options to keep your little ones entertained. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best places to take kids in Ohio, so you can plan your next family outing with ease.
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, Ohio has plenty of options. Hocking Hills State Park is a must-visit destination, with its stunning waterfalls, caves, and cliffs. Kids will love exploring the Old Man’s Cave and hiking the trails. For a unique experience, consider staying at The Mohicans in Glenmont, where you can spend the night in a treehouse with all the necessary amenities.
For indoor fun, Ohio has many options as well. COSI in Columbus is a science museum that offers hands-on exhibits and interactive activities. LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Columbus is another great option for kids who love to build and create.
And if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, Play: CLE in Avon is the largest indoor adventure park in the nation, with epic playground equipment, zip lining, obstacle courses, and more.
Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden
3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is a great choice. With over 65 acres of animal habitats, botanical gardens, and attractions, there’s plenty to see and do.
One of the highlights of the zoo is its collection of endangered species and birthing programs, particularly for gorillas and white tigers. The zoo also has a wonderful collection of felines and a delightful manatees exhibit. In addition to animals, the zoo also features a variety of botanical gardens, including a butterfly garden and a rain garden.
To make the most of your trip to the Cincinnati Zoo, consider arriving early in the day. This will give you plenty of time to explore the various exhibits and attractions. You may also want to consider purchasing a membership, which can save you money on admission and provide other benefits.
The zoo is committed to conservation and education, and offers a variety of programs and events for visitors of all ages. From animal encounters to behind-the-scenes tours, there’s something for everyone at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of the best zoos in the United States and a popular attraction for families with kids. Home to over 11,000 animals representing nearly 600 species from around the world, the zoo is a great place to learn about wildlife and conservation.
One of the highlights of the Columbus Zoo is the Heart of Africa exhibit, which features animals such as lions, cheetahs, and zebras roaming around a replica African savannah. Visitors can also see gorillas, orangutans, and other primates at the Congo Expedition exhibit.
In addition to the zoo, the Columbus Zoo also has an attached water park, Zoombezi Bay, and an 18-hole Safari Golf Course. Zoombezi Bay features water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, while the Safari Golf Course offers a unique golfing experience with views of animals such as giraffes and zebras.
If you’re planning a visit to the Columbus Zoo, be sure to check out their daily schedule of events and animal encounters. You can also purchase tickets online in advance to skip the lines and save time.
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is one of the best places for families with kids in Ohio. With its diverse range of animals, exhibits, and activities, it’s sure to be a memorable experience for everyone.
Cedar Point Amusement Park
1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870
If you’re looking for a thrilling and unforgettable experience with your kids, Cedar Point Amusement Park is the place to go! Located in Sandusky, Ohio, Cedar Point is known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World” and offers a wide range of rides and attractions for all ages.
With 18 world-class roller coasters, Cedar Point is a paradise for thrill-seekers. From the classic wooden coaster Blue Streak to the record-breaking Steel Vengeance, the park has something for everyone. But don’t worry if roller coasters aren’t your thing – Cedar Point also features a variety of family-friendly rides and attractions, including Camp Snoopy, Kiddy Kingdom, and Gemini Midway Area.
In addition to rides, Cedar Point also has a massive water park, Cedar Point Shores, which features a wave pool, lazy river, and a variety of water slides. The park also offers a wide selection of food options, including classic amusement park fare like funnel cakes and corn dogs, as well as healthier options like salads and wraps.
If you’re planning to spend more than one day at Cedar Point, there are several on-site lodging options available, including hotels and cabins. And if you’re looking for even more adventure, the park offers a variety of special events throughout the year, including Halloween-themed events like HalloWeekends and a winter wonderland experience called Winterfest.
Cedar Point Amusement Park is a must-visit destination for families with kids of all ages. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a fun-filled and exciting day (or days) at the park!
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
If you’re looking for one of the best places to take your kids in Ohio, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a must-visit destination. This botanical landmark is just two miles east of downtown Columbus and features exotic plant collections and displays, seasonal exhibitions, outdoor gardens, and a variety of educational programming.
Children’s Garden
One of the main highlights of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is the Scotts Miracle-Gro Children’s Garden. This imaginative outdoor space is perfect for kids of all ages. There’s so much to do and explore, all while staying outside and having plenty of space to practice social distancing.
- Discovery Station: This is a great place for kids to learn about gardening and the environment. They can explore the Children’s Garden and discover the different plants and animals that call it home.
- Fine Arts & Crafts: Kids can get creative with hands-on arts and crafts activities in the Children’s Garden.
- Nature Circle Time: This is a fun and interactive way for kids to learn about nature and the environment. They can participate in a variety of activities, including storytime, music, and movement.
Pacific Island Water Garden
Another must-visit area of Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is the Pacific Island Water Garden. This outdoor garden features a stunning collection of tropical plants and a beautiful water feature. Here are some of the top features of the Pacific Island Water Garden.
- Waterfall: The waterfall is the centerpiece of the Pacific Island Water Garden. It’s a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of the garden.
- Tropical Plants: The garden is home to a wide variety of tropical plants, including palm trees, orchids, and bromeliads.
- Koi Pond: The Koi Pond is a popular spot for visitors of all ages. Kids will love watching the colorful koi fish swim around in the pond.
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens another one of the best places to take your kids in Ohio. With its beautiful gardens, educational programming, and fun activities, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Great Lakes Science Center
601 Erieside Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44114
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, the Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland, Ohio, is a must-visit. With over 400 hands-on exhibits, the center makes science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) come alive for visitors of all ages.
The Great Lakes Science Center is home to the Cleveland Clinic DOME Theater, which features a giant dome screen and state-of-the-art sound system. The theater shows a variety of educational films, including documentaries and Hollywood blockbusters. The Steamship William G. Mather, a retired Great Lakes freighter, is also part of the museum and can be toured by visitors.
In addition to the exhibits and attractions, the center offers daily science demonstrations and seasonal camps for kids. There’s also a gift shop and cafe on-site, so you can grab a bite to eat or pick up a souvenir to remember your visit.
Here are some highlights of what you can expect to see and do at the Great Lakes Science Center.
- Explore the wonders of space in the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, which includes interactive exhibits and artifacts from space missions.
- Learn about the human body and health in the BioMedTech Gallery.
- Discover the science behind energy and sustainability in the Science Phenomena exhibit.
- Experiment with electricity and magnetism in the Electricity exhibit.
- Build and test your own structures in the Design Lab.
- Experience the thrill of a hurricane in the Wind Tunnel exhibit.
The Great Lakes Science Center is a fantastic destination for families with kids of all ages. With so many hands-on exhibits and activities, your children will have a blast while learning something new.
National Museum of the United States Air Force
1100 Spaatz St, Dayton, OH 45433
If you’re looking for an educational and exciting experience for your kids, the National Museum of the United States Air Force is a must-visit destination. This museum is located in Dayton, Ohio, and is the largest and oldest military aviation museum in the world.
The museum’s collection includes over 360 aircraft and missiles, as well as thousands of historical artifacts and exhibits. Your kids will be fascinated by the displays of planes from different eras, including World War I, World War II, the Cold War, and modern times. They can even climb into some of the aircraft and experience what it’s like to be a pilot.
In addition to the exhibits, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and events for kids of all ages. For example, they can attend the Introduction to Becoming a Pilot course, which is a free two-week course consisting of ground school and training at a flight simulator. This is an excellent opportunity for your kids to learn about aviation and potentially spark an interest in pursuing a career in the field.
Admission to the museum is free, and parking is also free. The museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. To plan your visit, you can check out the museum’s website for more information, including the daily movie schedule, concessions, and simulator rides.
Cleveland Museum of Natural History
1 Wade Oval Dr, Cleveland, OH 44106
If you’re looking for one of the best educational and fun places for your kids in Cleveland, Ohio, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History is a must-visit destination.
Planetarium
The museum’s Nathan and Fannye Shafran Planetarium offers an immersive experience that will take you and your kids on a journey through the cosmos. With state-of-the-art technology and expert presenters, you can explore the night sky, learn about the planets in our solar system, and discover the mysteries of the universe.
Dinosaur Gallery
The museum’s Dinosaur Gallery is a favorite among young visitors. Here, you and your kids can see real fossils and skeletons of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures. The gallery includes interactive exhibits that allow your kids to touch and feel real dinosaur bones and learn about the science of paleontology.
Other exhibits at the museum include the Wildlife Center, which features live animals such as birds of prey, reptiles, and amphibians, and the Human Health and Evolution exhibit, which explores the evolution of the human body and the science of medicine.
The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events for kids and families, including summer camps, workshops, and special events. Admission to the museum is $17 for adults and $14 for children, seniors, and college students with a valid ID. Children under 2 are free.
The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is a great place to take your kids for an educational and entertaining experience. With its planetarium, dinosaur gallery, and other exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and learn.
Toledo Zoo & Aquarium
2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609
Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is one of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Toledo, Ohio. With over 10,000 animals representing over 720 species, this zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers of all ages.
The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is divided into several areas, including the Aquarium, ProMedica Museum of Natural History, and interactive Nancy L. and Martin Davidson Barnyard. Each area offers unique exhibits that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the animals.
One of the highlights of the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is the Aerial Adventure Course, where visitors can soar through the trees on zip lines and ropes courses. The Aquarium Adventure Trail is also a popular attraction, where visitors can touch stingrays and see a variety of aquatic animals up close.
The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium offers a variety of experiences for visitors, including animal encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, and overnight stays. There are also several dining options within the zoo, including a café, grill, and ice cream parlor.
The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is a must-visit destination for families visiting Toledo, Ohio. With its diverse collection of animals and interactive exhibits, it’s sure to be a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
COSI Columbus
333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215
COSI (The Center of Science and Industry) in Columbus, Ohio, has been voted America’s #1 Science Museum for four years in a row, making it one of the best places to take your kids in Central Ohio. COSI is a hands-on science center with over 300 interactive exhibits that are designed to inspire curiosity and encourage learning.
One of the most popular exhibits at COSI is the Dinosaur Gallery, which features life-sized dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays that teach kids about paleontology and the history of these fascinating creatures. Another highlight is the Ocean exhibit, which allows kids to explore the depths of the ocean and learn about marine life through interactive displays.
In addition to the exhibits, COSI also offers a variety of educational programs and workshops for kids of all ages. These programs are designed to provide hands-on learning experiences and inspire curiosity in science, technology, engineering, and math.
COSI also features a planetarium, which offers a variety of shows and presentations on astronomy and space science. The planetarium’s state-of-the-art projection system provides a stunning visual experience that is sure to leave kids in awe.
COSI is an excellent destination for families looking to learn and have fun together. With its interactive exhibits, educational programs, and stunning planetarium, COSI is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Columbus with kids.
Kings Island
6300 Kings Island Drive, Kings Island, OH 45034
Kings Island is a must-visit destination for families with young children. This amusement park is located in Mason, Ohio, and has been voted “Best Kids’ Area in the World” for almost 20 years. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Tips for Taking Little Kids to Kings Island
If you’re taking a little kid to Kings Island, you might be wondering how to keep them entertained.
- Visit Planet Snoopy: This section of the park is designed especially for young children, with plenty of rides and attractions that are perfect for preschoolers and young elementary age kids.
- Buy a meal and share with your toddler: Meals at Kings Island can get expensive, so if you know your toddler doesn’t eat much, you can buy something for you both to share. One of the best deals, in my opinion, is LaRosa’s pizza.
- Take breaks: Little kids can get tired easily, so make sure to take breaks throughout the day. There are plenty of shaded areas and benches where you can rest and recharge.
Best Rides for Kids at Kings Island
Kings Island has a wide variety of rides and attractions, but not all of them are suitable for young children. Here are some of the best rides for kids at Kings Island.
| Ride Name | Height Requirement | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Woodstock Express | 36 inches | A mini wooden coaster that’s perfect for young kids. |
| Flying Ace Aerial Chase | 44 inches | A suspended coaster that gives kids the feeling of flying. |
| Kite Eating Tree | 36 inches | A fun ride that spins and tilts in all directions. |
| Peanuts 500 | 36 inches | A kiddie car ride that’s perfect for young children. |
Other Things to Do at Kings Island
In addition to rides and attractions, Kings Island has plenty of other things to do.
- Meet the Peanuts characters: Kids will love meeting their favorite Peanuts characters, like Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and Lucy.
- Watch a show: Kings Island has a variety of shows throughout the day, including musical performances and stunt shows.
- Visit Soak City: If you’re visiting during the summer months, don’t miss Soak City, Kings Island’s water park.
Kings Island is a great destination for families with young children. With plenty of rides and attractions designed especially for kids, as well as other fun activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Final Thoughts on the 10 Best Places to Take Kids in Ohio
Ohio is an excellent place to take your kids for a fun-filled vacation. From exciting museums to beautiful parks, there is something for everyone. In this article, we have covered some of the best places to take your kids in Ohio.
Whether you are looking for an educational experience or just a fun day out, Ohio has it all. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is a must-visit for music lovers, while the Mohicans in Glenmont offer a unique treehouse experience for the adventurous.
If you are looking for a water park, Cedar Point in Sandusky is the place to go. For science enthusiasts, COSI in Columbus is a fascinating museum that offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.
Ohio is also home to some beautiful natural wonders, such as the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and winter sports.
Ohio has many of the best places for families with kids of all ages. With so many things to see and do, it’s no wonder that Ohio is such a popular vacation spot. So pack your bags, grab your kids, and head to Ohio for an unforgettable family vacation.
Frequently Asked Questions on the 10 Best Places to Take Kids in Ohio
What are some fun activities for kids in Ohio?
Ohio offers plenty of fun activities for kids. You can take them to LEGOLAND Discovery Center Columbus, COSI, or the National Museum of the Great Lakes for a day of educational fun. If your kids love the outdoors, they will enjoy visiting Nickel Plate Beach, where they can play in the sand or take a dip in Lake Erie.
Are there any amusement parks in Ohio that are great for families?
Yes, Ohio is home to several amusement parks that are great for families. Cedar Point in Sandusky is one of the most popular amusement parks in the country, offering thrilling roller coasters and rides for all ages. Kings Island in Mason is another great option, with over 100 rides, shows, and attractions.
Which museums in Ohio are most suitable for children?
Ohio has several museums that are perfect for kids. COSI in Columbus is a hands-on science museum that offers interactive exhibits and activities. The Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal is another great option, with exhibits on science, history, and art. The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is also worth a visit, with exhibits on dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures.
What are some outdoor adventures for families in Ohio?
Ohio has plenty of outdoor adventures for families. You can take a hike in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, go kayaking on the Hocking River, or visit the Mohican State Park for camping and hiking. The Ohio River Boat Sightseeing Tour in Cincinnati is also a great way to explore the outdoors while learning about the city’s history.
Are there any family-friendly beaches in Ohio?
Yes, Ohio has several family-friendly beaches. Edgewater Beach in Cleveland is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, while Kelleys Island State Park Beach offers beautiful views of Lake Erie. East Harbor State Park Beach in Marblehead and Headlands Beach State Park in Mentor are also great options.
Where can families go for a unique experience in Ohio?
For a unique experience, families can visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, where they can learn about the history of rock and roll and see memorabilia from famous musicians. The Kalahari Resorts Sandusky, Ohio offers a unique indoor waterpark experience, while the Smiley Park Children’s Garden in Van Wert is yet another one of the best places for kids to explore and learn about nature.
