Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Ohio: Top Family Attractions and Activities

Exploring Ohio with your family can be an adventure filled with diverse activities that will delight kids and adults alike. From the thrill of roller coasters to the calmness of scenic natural parks, Ohio offers a robust selection of kid-friendly attractions. As you plan your journey, picture the smiles and laughter of your children as they engage in interactive exhibits, get up close with animals at petting zoos, or embark on a fun cave tour.

In Ohio, fun with the family comes in many forms. Take a swing at mini-golf, discover the wonders of science at hands-on museums, or splash around at one of the state’s indoor water parks. Whether you’re passing through or a long-time Buckeye state resident, uncovering things to do in Ohio with kids offers a chance to make lasting memories. Enjoy the diversity of activities ranging from educational to purely fun, ensuring that each family member finds something to spark their interest and curiosity.

If your family enjoys the outdoors, venture to the numerous parks where hiking trails become nature’s playground. For an educational twist, delve into Ohio’s rich history with trips to historical sites or make learning exciting with interactive exhibits at children-focused museums. No matter what corner of the state you find yourself in, you’ll discover an array of activities and attractions that cater to the youthful spirit in everyone.

Iconic Attractions for Families

Ohio offers unforgettable experiences with a variety of iconic attractions that cater to families. You’ll find top-tier zoos and thrilling amusement parks that provide interactive and educational fun for all ages.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Your visit to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium promises an exciting day filled with remarkable animals and interactive exhibits. It’s famed for its conservation efforts and diverse habitats, which range from the African savanna to the shores of North America. Get up close with over 10,000 animals and don’t miss out on the seasonal water park, Zoombezi Bay, for a splash of fun.

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Next stop, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, where you’ll encounter wildlife from around the globe. This zoo is a pioneer in enhancing both animal care and visitor experience through its extensive range of biomes. The zoo’s RainForest exhibit is especially engaging, giving you the chance to see exotic species in a climate-controlled environment.

Kings Island Amusement Park

For adrenaline seekers, Kings Island Amusement Park in Sandusky is a must. Whether you’re riding one of their world-class roller coasters or enjoying family-friendly attractions, there’s something for everyone. During baseball season, consider pairing your visit with a game featuring the Cincinnati Reds for a full day of entertainment.

Educational Experiences

Ohio offers a wealth of educational opportunities that blend fun with learning, ideal for sparking your kids’ curiosity and knowledge. Dive into the hands-on exhibits at premier science museums, where every family member can explore and discover.

COSI: Center of Science and Industry

In Columbus, COSI, stands as a beacon of knowledge for children and adults alike. Your visit here includes interactive exhibits like a dinosaur gallery and a state-of-the-art planetarium, ensuring that learning about science is always an adventure. COSI is not just a museum; it’s a vibrant educational playground where kids can immerse themselves in the wonders of science.

Great Lakes Science Center

Situated in Cleveland, the Great Lakes Science Center is a hub that combines scientific knowledge with the charm of the surrounding Great Lakes. Your kids can engage in hands-on experiments or marvel at the wonders in the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, making it clear why it’s counted among the top educational sites in Ohio.

Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

When you’re in Dayton, make your way to the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, where learning leaps off the pages and into real-world experiences. It’s not just another science museum; it’s an interactive realm where every exhibit from the live animal zoo to the dazzling planetarium is designed with your kids’ education in mind.

Nature and Wildlife Exploration

When it comes to delving into the beauty of nature and the wonders of wildlife in Ohio, there’s no shortage of destinations where you and your family can discover the state’s diverse ecosystems. From the rolling hills to the majestic shores, every experience promises to be both educational and memorable.

Hocking Hills State Park

Nestled in the midst of Ohio’s breathtaking scenery, Hocking Hills State Park offers you a chance to explore its famed gorges and waterfalls. Embark on a hike through Old Man’s Cave or conquer the trails around Cedar Falls. For an engaging family activity, consider a unique riverboat tour to fully appreciate the park’s rich natural heritage.

The Wilds

Discover a safari experience at The Wilds, one of North America’s largest conservation centers. This expansive wildlife area is home to rare and endangered species, such as the charismatic red pandas. Embark on an open-air safari and get up close with these creatures, or enjoy the serenity of bird watching in a picturesque setting.

Lake Erie Shores

Your adventure in Ohio would not be complete without a visit to the shores of Lake Erie. Here, you can enjoy miles of beautiful beaches and numerous state parks. Whether you’re birdwatching, fishing, or simply playing on the beach, the Lake Erie shoreline is a perfect spot for families to connect with nature and each other.

By visiting these locations, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for Ohio’s natural wonders and the majestic creatures that call it home.

Interactive Fun and Learning

Embark on a journey where you can touch, play, and learn in environments that spark your curiosity and creativity. In Ohio, interactive fun meets hands-on learning at several family-friendly destinations that highlight the beauty of nature and the joy of discovery.

Franklin Park Conservatory

Discover a world where butterflies flutter freely around you within the butterfly garden at Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus. Not only can you explore the lush botanical gardens and seasonal exhibits, but you can also participate in special events designed to educate and entertain visitors of all ages. Plan your visit during one of the family-friendly festivals for an extra sprinkle of fun.

Cleveland Botanical Garden

In Cleveland, the Cleveland Botanical Garden isn’t just a place to admire the flowers; it’s an interactive educational experience. With a variety of themed gardens and the enchanting Glasshouse, you can observe exotic plants and animals, or attend workshops and classes that change with the seasons. These events aim to nurture your knowledge about the environment and the importance of plants in our world.

Olentangy Indian Caverns

Venture beneath the earth’s surface at the Olentangy Indian Caverns in Delaware, just a short drive from Columbus. Engage with history and geology through cave tours that recount the lore of Native American tribes. Above ground, challenge yourself with a large maze, or try gem mining. This family attraction offers a mix of adventure and learning with a hands-on approach to understanding the natural world.

In these settings, you’ll intertwine fun with education, interact with nature and wildlife, and create memorable experiences that last a lifetime.

Indoor Entertainment and Activities

Ohio offers an engaging range of indoor attractions perfect for those unpredictable rainy days or when you just want a break from the sun. From thrilling theme parks to imaginative play areas, you’ll find a variety of family-friendly destinations to explore.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Located in Columbus, the LEGOLAND Discovery Center is a vibrant world where your creativity is the limit. Here, you can enjoy interactive rides, witness the magic of the 4D cinema, and marvel at miniature cities built entirely out of LEGOs. It’s a fantastic spot for your little architects and builders to get inspired and hands-on with the iconic bricks.

EnterTRAINment Junction

Step into the world of trains at the EnterTRAINment Junction. As you venture through America’s largest indoor train display, you’ll be mesmerized by the intricacies of the railroading world. This attraction also includes a funhouse and a railroading museum, making it an educational and entertaining option for the whole family.

Scene75 Entertainment Center

With multiple locations across Ohio, Scene75 Entertainment Center is a haven for indoor fun. Each venue boasts a massive space filled with arcade games, go-karts, laser tag, and more. Regardless of age, there’s something to thrill everyone at Scene75, ensuring a day filled with excitement and lively competition.

Additional Highlights:

• Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: While not specifically a children’s attraction, this iconic venue in Cleveland celebrates music history and can be a cool experience for older kids with an interest in music.

• Air Force Museum: Free admission to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force near Dayton gives your family the chance to explore aviation history, spacecraft, and military exhibits indoors.

• Candy Stores: Treat your taste buds with a visit to unique candy stores, offering an array of sweet delights that are sure to bring smiles.

• Children’s Museums: Interactive and packed with educationally engaging activities, children’s museums dotted across Ohio offer a stimulating adventure for curious minds.