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Top city between Ann Arbor and Columbus
Best stops along Ann Arbor to Columbus drive
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31 Best Stops Between Ann Arbor and Columbus

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Wanderlog staff
Updated
• updatedMar 31, 2023

How long is the drive from Ann Arbor to Columbus?

The direct drive from Ann Arbor to Columbus is 194 mi (312 km), and should have a drive time of 3 hrs 20 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Ann Arbor to Columbus, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Toledo, as well as top places to visit like River Raisin National Battlefield Park and William C. Sterling State Park, or the ever-popular Cinemark Southland Center and XD.

Visiting Ann Arbor or Columbus? See our Ann Arbor Trip Planner and our Columbus Trip Planner.
194 mi
Total Distance
3 hrs 20 mins
Drive Time
31 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top city between Ann Arbor and Columbus

The top city between Ann Arbor and Columbus is Toledo. It's less than an hour from Ann Arbor and 3 hours from Columbus.
1

Toledo

Nature & Parks
Parks
Toledo, a city in Ohio located at the western edge of Lake Erie, offers a diverse range of attractions. The Toledo Museum of Art boasts an extensive collection of modern and Renaissance artwork, including the Glass Pavilion which showcases numerous glass works. Along the Maumee River, visitors can explore hands-on exhibits at the Imagination Station or enjoy a day at the Toledo Zoo with its polar bears and aquarium.
Most popular city on this route
8 minutes off the main route, 27% of way to Columbus

Best stops along Ann Arbor to Columbus drive

The top stops along the way from Ann Arbor to Columbus (with short detours) are Easton Town Ctr, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and Hollywood Casino Toledo. Other popular stops include Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, Center of Science and Industry (COSI), and Fifth Third Field.
1

Cinemark Southland Center and XD

Movie theater
Fun & Games
Snack bar
Chain of movie theaters, some with multiple screens, stadium seats & self-service ticketing kiosks.
This is THE place to go when you want to see a movie. Comfortable seats, wonderful good, and overall good vibes. AND... They always have all the good movie debut merch! Also, it one of the theaters that usually get the special screenings and early premieres for movies and anime alike. 10\10
Winter R — Google review
seating - comfortable, excellent screen with extreme digital laser projection with Dolby surround sound, this XD screen is almost equal to IMAX here in cinemark. Overall a good experience.
Sharat K — Google review
Man, Cinemark used to be the best — comfy seats, good vibes, and snacks that actually hit. But now? Their service has gone straight downhill. They don’t care anymore. It’s like they took what made the place special, tossed it aside, and for some reason decided to stomp on my zebra cake just to prove a point. Zebra cake? Gone. Absolutely unacceptable behavior, we were all going to have a feast with the zebra cake. The magic’s gone — replaced with cold popcorn, slow lines, and zero respect for the people who actually used to love the place.
Brody S — Google review
This was my first time at this location, and I was pleasantly surprised. My ticket price for matinee was $7.25,the lobby & theater were clean, organized, & well-stocked. The staff I encountered all were professional, welcoming, and studious. Upon leaving, there was an additional team member cleaning the restrooms, which made me feel this is a practice done throughout the day. While I did not purchase anything from the concession stand as I have just eaten lunch there are several patrons in line which would lead me to believe the prices were comparable and the food smelled and looked fresh my only reason for not giving five stars was the lounge chairs felt sticky
Joii H — Google review
First time at this theater. It's very nice. The fountain machine was down, so I couldn't order combo meals for us. The manager should've made the adjustment for bottled drinks to be a part of the combos until the fountain machine was fixed, opposed to having staff tell customers they have to buy everything separately. Other than that, the staff was pleasant, the auditorium was clean, and the bathrooms were clean too.
Alwayzcoolin — Google review
This is my favorite theater. its never messy, everyone is always really friendly and the seats are cozy. My only feedback was that compared to my last couple of trips it was colder this time but I had a sweatshirt on and I survived.
Jennifer C — Google review
I come to this theatre anytime I am in the area for work and usually catch a matinee. It is always nice and clean, the theatre and seats are nice. Staff always seems to be friendly and have a smile.
Brian — Google review
I will Never come back here again. I just witnessed a manager treat a couple so horribly and disrespectfully for no reason. She was a thin, long brown haired younger lady. Hair pulled back. Just so so rude and Shouldn't be working with the public. I will take my business elsewhere. Never again id be afraid im gonna get kicked out for no reason. And no refund.. gotta be some kind of scam.! UPDATE: Ive reached out to your customer service to report my issue and all they cared about was my purchase history other wise they cant assist me 🤣🤣 what a joke you guys are a waste of time. You lost a customer. Over and OUT!!. PEACE.
KrisE — Google review
4.3
(6188)
•
4.5
(28)
23000 Eureka Rd, Taylor, MI 48180, USA
https://www.cinemark.com/theatres/mi-taylor/cinemark-southland-center-and-xd?utm_medium=organic&utm_source=gmb&utm_campaign=local_listing_theater&utm_content=GMB_listing&y_source=1_MTc0OTMyMTUtNzE1LWxvY2F0aW9uLndlYnNpdGU%3D
(734) 287-0629
2

River Raisin National Battlefield Park

Temporarily Closed
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
National park preserving the historical site of pivotal battles during the War of 1812.
Nice new visitor center and museum. Small but good! There’s not a ton to see outside- just a walking trail across the street with information plaques. I like the small sites like this though since they provide just the right amount of info and activity that you don’t feel overwhelmed. It was also not crowded- had the trail all to ourselves and had a lovely peaceful morning stroll. We also went to the memorial site a few minutes drive away. I would also like to mention that the gift shop was quite interesting- it had stickers and things from other parks around the country! My husband found a Katmai sticker that he couldn’t resist getting.
Jennifer W — Google review
Great spot to check off my passport bucket list! We got our stamp thinking this was going to be just a visitor center with a field and it was much more! Staff was very knowledgeable, the new education center was full of interactive stuff for the kids to do. I can't wait to come back when it is completed! Very thoughtful to the time frame in which it all took place.
Heather — Google review
This is a great spot to walk around and read about the battlefield history. Start near the parking lot and it loops in the correct order to read the full story on the signs. There are two picnic areas, one covered and one not. There is not a lot of parking and the only restroom is an outhouse. Still an interesting place to stop especially if you like history. Highly recommend checking the River Raisin National Park visitor center first just so you have a better idea of what you are seeing, though the signs do a great job of telling the full story.
Savannah P — Google review
Very beautiful! Loved that they had the display for those that had been killed in action and that it was split into sections for each war. Very moving display.
Koren R — Google review
Traffic bumped me off the freeway, and right into the parking lot of this amazing NPS Battlefield. This place is a hidden gem. Stop on in with your kids and learn a lot about American Indian culture and the War of 1812.
John D — Google review
Beautiful and peaceful walk paved and unpaved sections over a mile total.. Hope you enjoy our pictures. Toby was jumping and leaping with excitement.
Ken P — Google review
Great stop on my trip! As a history buff I loved all of the artifacts they had. Even if you do not know much about the war of 1812 and especially what happened here, there is an AMAZING movie that explains it all. Highly recommend
Greg G — Google review
Very fun experience center with hands-on displays. Learn to load a cannon or fire an arrow or make wampum with legos. Well worth a stop especially if you have kids.
Frank S — Google review
4.5
(890)
•
4.0
(119)
333 N Dixie Hwy, Monroe, MI 48162, USA
https://www.nps.gov/rira/index.htm
(734) 243-7136
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3

William C. Sterling State Park

State park
Nature & Parks
Park
Lake Erie's only state park offers 1 mile of lakeshore with campsites plus wildlife walks & hiking.
We absolutely love it here!! The beach area has mostly grass and a small sandy shore (not far to walk!) and the trees along the beach help provide a lot of shade! There are also grills and tables for public use. Along with a playground, sheltered bathrooms, and vending machines. This has become a staple for us on a hot sunny day!
Megan B — Google review
The sand in parts of the beach is all finely crushed shells, really cool! Beach was clean, very little trash and water was nice and warm great place to swim. Good place to go fishing, great place to sit and relax.
Anthony P — Google review
July 2025 - came here with the family over the 4th of July weekend. The place was packed. They have a shower and bathroom. The beach was nice and the water was warm. No issues and a good park to check out.
Brian D — Google review
The park offers some good points, but the beach could use some improvement. The beach itself was just okay and not as clean as I would have liked. However, I did appreciate the shaded areas provided by the trees, which was a nice break from the sun. The park play area for kids was a great feature and a definite plus."
Saranraj R — Google review
This state park is right on the edge of Lake Erie. They have a wonderful campground. It’s very tight but you’re right on the edge of Lake Erie so you have a beach right there in the campground it’s amazing. The playground for the children looks great. the bathhouse is wonderfuland then if you decide you’re not camping, you also have access to the beach of Lake Erie. they have a nice concession area lots and lots of picnic tables with grills and a huge parking lot. It really is a nice place.
Cathie D — Google review
This place is just horribly unhealthy. It is directly, practically on top of, a gross factory- emitting non stop, fumes. You can smell it and the air quality in the location is poor. Every view from the lake has factories. The water is full of dead fish and the trail is filled with sulfur smells. This is a sad situation for the city. This is 2025 and we know about clean energy..or at least non-deadly energy. Skip this place. Monroe..you can do better for your citizens.
Katy C — Google review
Beautiful state park! Beach ⛱️ picnic tables . Grills. Walking trails. Ggreat fishing areas. Highly recommend 💚💯💯
Kenny G — Google review
Returned today from Sterling state campground, and we loved it. We did tent camping. There were lot of RVs and very few tent campers. I would like to list what we loved: 1. The ground were leveled and soil was soft to fix stakes in. Whole campground was lush green with grass and few weeds. 2. You would be welcomed with nicely arranged swamp roses which were there in my campground too. Yes there are areas with native plants and milkweeds. 3. Our camping area was near restrooms. Restrooms and shower were very clean. 4. Outside restrooms were placed vending machines. Also separate trash cans were there for paper, waste and cans & bottles. 5. Lake Erie view was pleasing. Lake made weather pleasant. 6. There were activities for small kids like nature walk where the female staff was telling kids to write what they would observe while on their way to Lake Erie and they should write it downl. Provided kids with unlimited foam stickers and crayons to write. Today they had different type of clouds activities for kids. 7. Lake Erie is so cool, water is cold and beach has no fishy smell. Yes few dead fishes were washed off but otherwise walking around beach and tree areas were refreshing. 8. For tent camping, there is more than ample space. 9. Campground has electric outlets. 10. Common playground was there in campground and kids slides and play area was also there if you walk through beach where there was hotdog food truck too. 11. Cottages are there. Negatives that are not campground fault: 1. Lot of mayflies or June flies were there which was sticking around us, tents and out canopy. 2. Trees are small and hence canopy is required 3. First day when we arrived, it was extremely windy that was making it very hard to set up the tent and rainfly over it. 4. View of some power plant is visible. 5. Not private campground. Overall we all loved it, kids would not be bored and so are the adults.
Shweta M — Google review
4.4
(4933)
•
4.0
(141)
2800 State Park Rd, Monroe, MI 48162, USA
http://www.michigandnr.com/parksandtrails/details.aspx?id=497&type=SPRK
(734) 289-2715
4

Imagination Station

Mentioned on 
52 lists 
Science museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
Nestled in the heart of downtown Toledo, overlooking the scenic Maumee River, Imagination Station is a vibrant 80,000-square-foot science museum that captivates over 200,000 visitors each year. This hands-on educational haven boasts eight distinct Learning Worlds and an array of interactive experiences including a thrilling 3-D simulator theater and unique attractions like the Gravity Room and High Wire Cycle.
Our girl scout troop came and had a wonderful time. Some of the kids pushed their limits on the wire bike. Our Littles that came along enjoyed the water room the most. The t-rex movie was great our boys loved the movie. The marble show was so cool. We watched it more than once. They have created marble lovers for life.
Valerie M — Google review
Spread out so even with bugs groups it isn’t bad. Parking is a pain. Street parking and 2 hour limit. Have to go out and add more. The outdoor part was closed for renovation. Kids loved the airplane you can drive, water station and hurricane simulator. The bike ride would have been fun but my daughter was a hair too short. They also loved the battle bots you could make .
Unscriptedmomlife — Google review
What a fun and interesting place to take children and to learn as an adult as well. So many wonderful things to see and do. Very interactive. They even have a movie theater inside as well as a snack bar. We saw the movie Wild Ohio that the Ohio Department of Natural Resources had produced to showcase many wonderful places in Ohio.
Joey S — Google review
I had a very interesting and fun experience. It’s a very educational and has different stuff for different ages. The membership is well worth getting. My favorite part was the simulation ride. I’m definitely coming back again.
Wendy A — Google review
Passing through Toledo on a road trip we stopped here to break of the ride and we were beyond pleasantly surprised. Parking was a cinch and cost $2 for 2 hours right outside on Main Street and our girls ages loved all the hands on activities. We had to drag them out of there as they didn’t want to leave. Thank you, Imagination Station!
Andrew D — Google review
We had an amazing time here! It’s the perfect mix of fun and learning for both kids and adults. The exhibits are hands-on and really engaging.
S — Google review
Grandkids enjoyed this stop. It rained so this was plan B since our outdoor activities were ruined. Several hands on exhibits were not working. The place was very busy. They do offer many activities for a lot of different ages and interest.
Debbie L — Google review
We relish the time and stem experience that sparked curiosity in children. Lego and other activities make it even more exciting.
Rakesh R — Google review
4.7
(3337)
•
4.5
(354)
1 Discovery Way, Toledo, OH 43604, USA
http://www.imaginationstationtoledo.org/
(419) 244-2674
5

National Museum of the Great Lakes

Mentioned on 
+42 other lists 
Museum
Specialty Museums
Nestled in Toledo, the National Museum of the Great Lakes is a captivating destination that delves into the rich history and significance of this vital waterway. With over 40 interactive exhibits and more than 300 artifacts, visitors can immerse themselves in stories spanning from Native American tribes to modern times. A highlight of your visit includes stepping aboard two historic vessels: the impressive Col. James M. Schoonmaker, a 617-foot iron ore freighter, and the Museum Tug Ohio.
Absolutely amazing! They let you explore the ship by yourself , and the ship is massive and fun! U can explore the control room , bedrooms , captain quarters, engine room, bathrooms , chow halls , kitchen , and the underground storage room, etc . It's absolutely amazing and worth it. Definitely recommend to visit at least once. There is also a beautiful metro park with a restaurant with pizza and burgers skating ring , rock climbing and trails , excellent to do after you finish the museum. The views are excellent! Summary , must visit!!!
Rock S — Google review
A really fun experience! The people who checked us in were so kind also ❤️ thank you! It’s so full of history for kids and adults. Great mini movie. Definitely worth watching. The ship was awesome. I saw a lot of reviews saying it’s hot on it. But I mean of course it would be it’s a ship in the sun! It was so cool though!! My kids loved it and so did I.
Joanna A — Google review
Visiting the museum can be an enriching experience, providing valuable insights into different cultures. The carefully curated exhibits showcase various artifacts, offering a glimpse into the past. You can explore the diverse collections at your own pace, allowing for personalized learning. Detailed information panels accompany each display, enhancing your understanding of the objects. Overall, the museum provides an opportunity for education and enjoyment.
Mark S — Google review
Very interesting to see the vast and tragic history of the great lakes so much to see here and learn. The ship was very cool to see and tour and the guides were very knowledgeable and helpful they other cool story's of the area plus it was Halloween and they were dressed as pirates and giving out candy well worth the visit. The tuggs were also interesting. The museum wad full of all the good and bad history of the lakes. Lots of artifacts from the ship wrecks. Im glad i stopped and hzve lots of pictures. Thanks for the cool tour, and keep up the great work and hope to see yall agan. Thanks a whole lot!!!!!
Double C — Google review
If you want a museum that you can go to from open to close, this is the place. The freighter alone is worth 6 hours alone. The museum is about 3 to 4 hours. There is just so much to see and learn. Being here was worth the trip. The life raft from the Edmund Fitzgerald was really shocking to see as very little had been found when she went down. It's really a nice collection of history of the Great Lakes and learning how important they are to the area.
Meikooceans — Google review
Shout out to Ellen: Our Edmund Fitzgerald tour guide. Very professional for the theme of the material and very knowledgeable and was able to answer all our questions. All the data that was given, she never forgot the compassionate side of the storie as she stated "let's not forget that we lost 29 people that day." The museum part had some great displays and yes there were noisy kids but kids are noisy. The museum itself was great. Thank you for the 50th anniversary experience of the Fitzgerald
Shelly — Google review
On the last day of our family reunion in Toledo to honor my late father, we discovered the National Museum of the Great Lakes just after lunch nearby. We decided to tour both the Schoonmaker lake barge and then visit the museum next door. After purchasing our tickets, the receptionist advised us to board the Schoonmaker first. I am glad she did since we had only thirty minutes to spare and would have missed out on the barge otherwise. It was our first time on a lake barge and we were impressed by its size, especially knowing it was built in the same era as the Titanic. The scale remains striking even today. Unfortunately, we did not have time to explore the museum itself. We managed a quick stop in the gift shop and also took a few photos by the giant propeller at the entrance. Not seeing the full museum gives us another reason to return on our next visit. We also want to thank the museum for honoring the military with discounted tickets. We greatly appreciated that!
Roman — Google review
Visited the National Museum of the Great Lakes as part of the 50th anniversary of the Edmund Fitzgerald. We had the tour of the James S. Schoonmaker to start our visit, and our tour guide Tom was tremendous. Fielded many questions and was educated and informed to answer all. Made the tour very digestible and entertaining. Tom was an excellent guide! The museum itself was terrific. Very interactive and wide ranging in its exhibits. We enjoyed our visit greatly and would definitely revisit. Great value, and great for all ages.
Shawn B — Google review
4.7
(1399)
•
4.8
(383)
1701 Front St, Toledo, OH 43605, USA
http://www.nmgl.org/
(419) 214-5000
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6

Fifth Third Field

Mentioned on 
+21 other lists 
Stadium
Sights & Landmarks
Fifth Third Field is a 9,000-capacity stadium in downtown Toledo that is home to the Toledo Mud Hens minor league baseball team. The stadium offers great game-viewing from the Roost terrace and has been praised as one of the best in the American lower leagues.
What a fantastic ball park!! The layout is wonderful, and far exceeds its minor league pedigree. A clean, well maintained stadium that rivals the MLB park in my home city. And the sight lines are great: not a bad seat anywhere. And for a special bonus, the fireworks after the game were phenomenal. Come watch a Mud Hens game: you will NOT be disappointed!
David E — Google review
I really liked this field. It was small, easy to get in and out of and plenty of parking available nearby. We went for a cosmic baseball game and it was extremely easy to get to and get in and out. Food vendors were easy to access and quick to go through the lines.
Jason C — Google review
We love coming here. It’s geared more towards kids and we get signatures all the time. Love being so close to the action. The fireworks displays are really good. We brought our Girl Scout troop multiple times over the past couple years. They love it! Parking is close by and lots of restaurants also.
Shannon V — Google review
Great place to watch a ballgame. Toledo mudhens. Everyone friendly. Players and coaches we talked to were awesome. Went on Harry potter night with my family. Great fireworks afterwards. All around Great time. Got to see Reese Olson of the tigers on a rehab assignment.
Thomas M — Google review
Stadium is very clean and well kept. We had seats right behind home plate, but I did walk around and the view is really good from any seat. The staff is polite and helpful.
Scott W — Google review
Very fun baseball field. Went here for cosmic night and it was awesome! We sat in best seats in the house according to ESPN, it was row 212 that overlooks the whole baseball field. It was a blast. The seats are cushioned and the speakers were right behind us. I feel like no matter where you sit here, it’s a pretty good spot to watch a game. There’s picnic tables and standing area with a ledge you can put your drink on. There’s a few food places. It looks like they sell frozen lemonade , ice cream, bottle pepsi products and cans. The staff were very polite. Didn’t use the bathrooms at all so not sure what they looked like.
Savannah C — Google review
The food is good, the people are nice, the venue is clean and comfortable, and most importantly, the game is fun to watch! They also have entertainment between inning and they have special event nights including bring your dog and fireworks.
Que S — Google review
Had just a great time at Toledo Mudhens triple A baseball was just as good as being at Major league Tigers game. Price to the game was fair and the food price are okay.
William G — Google review
4.7
(3664)
•
4.7
(685)
406 Washington St, Toledo, OH 43604, USA
http://www.mudhens.com/
(419) 725-4367
7

Hollywood Casino Toledo

Mentioned on 
11 lists 
Casino
Casinos & Gambling
Hollywood Casino Toledo is a popular gambling venue in Ohio, offering a wide range of entertainment options. Established in 2012, it features over 2,000 slot machines, 59 table games, and a 19-table poker room. The casino also boasts four dining venues and live entertainment for visitors to enjoy.
This is my favorite date place with my husband and we win often. Ive never won anywhere else. I recommend Hollywood toledo over any.
Kawasakiblu — Google review
Hollywood Casino- Regalo Our party of five had the pleasure of visiting Regalo for our most recent visit to Hollywood Casino. Staff was so friendly and made the experience great. Food was hit and miss. Our party ordered the calamari and meatball appetizers, Caesar salad, soup of the month, chicken Marsala, Pesto chicken dish, high roller chicken, table side cacio de Pepe and cheesecake dessert. Our favorites were the calamari and meatballs, pesto pasta dish, high roller chicken and the table side experience. Prices are appropriate for the dining experience and menu offerings. The chef shared with us that many ingredients are made fresh in house including their pasta which was definitely noticeable. Regalo is worth the visit!
Elizabeth P — Google review
Oh my gosh I absolutely loved this casino! The high ceilings made it feel so spacious and the food options were fantastic. We ate at Sobe and it was sooooo yummy, fresh and authentic udon noodles and a gorgeous broth! Just salivating thinking about how good our meal was. They had live music the night we visited and it was really great we just chilled and listened to the good vibes of the live band. What a great experience. I hope to visit again in the warmer weather. Cheers, Spicy Jan
Spicy J — Google review
Good variety of games, but very difficult tot get a drink or a bottle of water. Also management doesn’t follow the rules and always will withhold taxes even if you provide documentation which excludes you from federal taxes. They still withholded taxes and now I need to spend money to get my taxes back, they gave me a bussinuess card to discuss matter at after moment, however never relied to any of my mails or friendly reminders.
RobbertJan F — Google review
Ever since Penn took over the promotions, I haven't been invited or offered any promotions that would typically get me in the door to play. A $5 or $10 slot play, birthday slotplay, or sending me big six numbers or other promotions in the mail typically drew me in and then I'd play. I get tons of promotions everywhere else EXCEPT this casino. So I barely play anymore. I've lost almost all interest and excitement here because of that alone. I used to love going but when Penn took over, I'm gonna say it hasn't felt the same. Seems like they put priority on drawing new people in rather than keeping regular paying customers. And last year the most drink stations often times had missing items like straws, lids, sugar or creamer. Tea bags should be there too and not have to hunt someone down and tip them for tea bag. I honestly would come back and play more if those things changed.
Becky A — Google review
Machines are expensive, but they have great comps and I have been getting lucky, almost every time I go! I have been in Ohio for a year, recently found this casino, after becoming a K card at Jacks for two years ( earned too many points). They need more staff and a phone number that they answer though. This was my second hand pay that day off of free play but my cell battery died. I wish they had more promotions too.
Amanda T — Google review
Payouts are really good on the slot machines. The slot machines and surrounding areas are always kept up and are clean. The parking area and inside the casino Is the cleanest casino I have been to. I have had questions of the staff from security to floor personnel. All have been extremely friendly and go the extra mile to help in any way they can. All of the above is a direct reflection on how well the human resources department employ the correct personnel. Additionally, there is never a shortage of hand sanitizing dispensers distributed inside the entire casino. Entrance into the casino and parking is very easy. Out of all the times I have been here, there is never a shortage of parking spaces. I highly recommend Hollywood Casino Toledo.
Jerry S — Google review
It's still the best casino in Mich/Ohio area! Safe, winning environment most of the time, friendly staff, great table games and slots. Along with free bets and food comps. Who could ask for more. 7/10/22 hit for 5000 on free credit bet! 1/18/25 hit on penny slot for 4500. 3/15/25 won 900 in free slots on Blinko! Then from that freeplay bonus won 1000+. And usually do very well at crap tables. Winning does happen here! Thank you, Hollywood 😊 restaurants are pretty good also.
BossMan ! — Google review
4.0
(13093)
•
3.8
(1039)
1968 Miami St, Toledo, OH 43605, USA
https://www.hollywoodcasinotoledo.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=localseo
(419) 661-5200
8

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area

Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Wildlife refuge
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Great for taking pictures of the Warblers! I’m visiting from Arizona and a friend brought me to Magee Marsh to photograph the Warblers and it was fantastic. Everyone was friendly and pointed birds out - photographers and birders alike! It was a cool place and a great experience.
Megan F — Google review
Came here in late May to catch the end of migration and it was incredible! There were so many birds and so close to you, it felt surreal. Wish we would have had more time to explore. I also loved stopping in the visitor’s center and checking out the exhibits.
Ashleigh M — Google review
Magee Marsh and the boardwalk are absolutely tremendous area for birdwatching. Plenty of parking and the boardwalk is excellent. I was fortunate to visit a few days prior to the start of the Biggest Week in American Birding and saw numerous warblers as well as other species. Look forward to returning in future years.
Dan S — Google review
It was like a dream. Saw so many warblers and other gorgeous birds!! (Visit date, 5/16) My favorite part was seeing a pair of trumpet swans for the first time! Even saw a few turtles. The woodies roost trail has quite a few snakes so be careful!😬
KawaiiCravings — Google review
Magee Marsh is FANTASTIC!! If you're into birding, nature, the beach and water, this place is for you! The nice cool breeze from the lake always feels wonderful and the sounds of all the birds and the boardwalk is a very fun and relaxing experience. Also exciting, because you never know what kind of bird or wildlife you might see!
Matt G — Google review
Magee is not only for birders, it’s a great place to walk and enjoy nature. The board walks are well maintained and easy to navigate. During May the Marsh is known as the "The Warbler Capital of the World" during the bird spring migration. It’s awesome to see how far birders will travel to get here.
RA N — Google review
We went early (April 30) and the weather was cool. We only saw a few warblers this year. But we really enjoyed the eagles!
Peggi T — Google review
It was a little difficult to find your way around at first, but we got a map at the visitor center that was handy. Overall and incredible place to bird. Probably even better in spring. Got my lifer yellow-billed cuckoo here!
Tate L — Google review
4.8
(1379)
•
4.5
(82)
State Rte 2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449, USA
https://ohiodnr.gov/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/magee-marsh-wildlife-area
(419) 898-0960
9

Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums is a captivating destination that offers a glimpse into the life of the 19th president and his wife, who both resided and are interred at Spiegel Grove. Visitors can explore the stunning estate, which includes an impressive home tour, a well-curated museum filled with original artifacts, and beautifully maintained grounds perfect for leisurely strolls. The house itself boasts over 20,000 square feet of space adorned with remarkable Bierstadt artwork.
This museum is well worth a visit. There is so much history to learn here. The home tour was very informative and gives a lot of insight into the life and times of this family. I guide was a fast talker but very knowledgeable. Could have spent more time here !
Celeste L — Google review
There's no question that the Hayes house and adjacent walks on Spiegel Grove are worthy of a visit, especially if you have any affection for presidential history. The grave is humble, despite the grounds and the property being quite grand. But on my arrival, after driving from Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor, MI (President Ford's Museum/Library), there seemed to be an air of something and someone always out of place, like the man talking into his phone so loudly, on business, that you could hear him anywhere in the grove, including the grave, even as a young girl walked beside him, constantly ignored. Or the other man walking and pumping rap music through headphones as he passed by the grave a few minutes later. It's a public walking area, so it comes with the territory, but it all fed into a larger observation. Because what most gave me pause was our house tour guide, a young man who was clearly (and surprisingly) knowledgeable of the house, the Hayes family, and a wealth of other historically valuable nuggets, but who never once paused to engage with us, to see if we were keeping up, if we had any questions. He spoke a mile-a-minute and checked his phone every time we moved between rooms, hopping through facts like he was in a race to recite a full Wikipedia page before 5pm. At one point, he mentioned that Hayes was the first to host an egg roll at the White House, so I spoke up to mention that Andrew Johnson had actually been the first to do so informally, to which our guide simply deferred to his own belief, insisted he was right, and moved on, prompting me to leave the tour before the second floor. I've been to 25 presidential graves, countless presidential homes, and always appreciate those who give tours with lots of knowledge, as this young man certainly did, but failure to engage with the people on your tour, maybe benefit from or inquire about the knowledge of others, is an unfortunate flaw in this otherwise peculiar marker of worthy history.
Jeremy L — Google review
Great experience touring the Hayes home and the grounds. Our guide Bill was very knowledgeable and gave great insight to all of the generations of Hayes. The old photos of each room and the authentic updates...amazing experience. You can spend hours here if you tour the museum also.
J C — Google review
This has been on our bucket list for awhile and we finally made it there. Tour of the home was very nice and the guides very knowledgeable and friendly. The museum was informative and shows how far our standards have fallen when comparing Presidencies from then and unfortunately now. Those who truly care about our democracy should visit these sites and become more informed as to what real leaders are and then take those lesson to the ballot box.
Jim H — Google review
Great experience and great place to take your family, and learn the history of the Hayes family.
Deluxe L — Google review
Today's daytime took us to the quaint town of Fremont and specifically the Hayes Memorial and Library. The Parkside grounds are a lovely setting for Hayes home and Museum. Our guide Garrett was knowledgeable and gracious. A great way to learn about Ohio's contributions to US history.
Phil P — Google review
We have visited all of the US Presidential Libraries and the museum portion was good. However, the Hayes house was very good. Our docent, Sarah, was super! She had a great personality and really knew the details about the house and the people who had lived in it. A few visitors asked questions that Sarah didn't know the answer but she had a tablet that she accessed quickly and supplied the answer. The grounds that surrounds the museum and house are absolutely beautiful and worth the time to walk around them. We spent about an hour and a half to visit the museum, the house tour was about an hour, and to walk around the grounds took about 45 minutes. In our opinion, it's a worth while visit.
Terri M — Google review
This is a great place to visit for anyone in the area, or passing through. The sheer amount of preserved historical items is astonishing. The museum is very well put together. Our tour guide for the residence was very informative, friendly, and kept the tour entertaining. For guests with disabilities, they even restored the elevator so you can see the second floor of the house.
John V — Google review
4.8
(840)
•
4.5
(291)
Spiegel Grove, Fremont, OH 43420, USA
http://www.rbhayes.org/
(419) 332-2081
10

119 S Main St

Building
Fun & Games
Movie Theaters
4.5
(21)
Bluffton, OH 45817, USA
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11

National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation

Basilica
Sights & Landmarks
Churches & Cathedrals
The National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation is a significant Catholic pilgrimage site with a rich history and spiritual significance. The basilica, built between 1898 and 1920, boasts stunning attention to detail, including exquisite stained glass, marble work, and dome murals. Visitors of all Christian faiths are welcome to explore the lower Basilica showcasing numerous documented healings over the years.
The Basilica was built between 1898 and 1920. The attention to detail in this Catholic place of worship is stunning, from the exquisite stained glass to the marble work to the dome murals. This is a great place to visit for people of all Christian faiths. It is wheelchair accessible.
Michael H — Google review
Amazing church with stunning stained glass
Frederick V — Google review
I never realized how big of a pilgrimage site this is until I came here. Miraculous healings occur to this day as a result of devotion to Our Lady at this shrine. The main church itself is also breaktaking. If only every town in America has a church like this, it would inspire more people to seek out Jesus. The staff in the rectory were very friendly and hospitable. As someone who isn't one for small talk or usually going out of my way to have down-to-earth conversations with people, I would recommend seizing the opportunity to ask about their anecdotal experiences with the basilica, the town, etc. You just might learn something. Be sure to look at the giant map across from the basilica if you're new. Otherwise, it may be difficult to find where you need to go.
Maicon P — Google review
IF YOU ARE AN OUTDOORSY OR RVEZY HOST: DO NOT RENT YOUR CAMPER OUT TO ANYONE AT THIS EVENT, ALL RUDE, WILL DESTROY YOUR PROPERTY AND THEN ARGUE ABOUT IT NOT BEING CLEAN. I FEEL FOR THIS ONE TIME AND WAS LEFT WITH A DISGUSTING BRAND NEW TRAVEL TRAILER THAT TOOK HOURS TO CLEAN AND $4200 IN DAMAGES. DO NOT RENT YOUR PROPERTY TO THESE PEOPLE.
Jason P — Google review
I had the wonderful opportunity to photograph a wedding at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Consolation over the summer. It was breathtakingly beautiful! The details were so intricate and wonderfully designed! I highly recommend visiting!
Debbie L — Google review
Beautiful shrine. Very clean and quiet. Great place for reflection and light a candle for your prayers.
Mario G — Google review
This is a great basilica with tons of interesting history. There's a museum in the basement which has a lot of charm to it. Also don't forget to visit the catholic store across the street which has a great selection of catholic goodies and souvenirs.
Mario C — Google review
We drive up from Columbus Ohio several times a year. Very peaceful place to pray and contemplate. Looking forward to the scale sized Christ the Redeemer being constructed on the grounds of Shrine Park.
James A — Google review
4.9
(365)
•
5.0
(24)
315 Clay St, Carey, OH 43316, USA
https://www.olcshrine.com/
(419) 396-7107
12

Warren G. Harding Presidential Sites

History museum
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Restored residence of President Warren Harding now a museum with presidential & personal artifacts.
On vacation in Ohio and the weather kept us inside. So we went to the Presidential Sites. Had a nice tour of the Harding home and enjoyed our visit to the Presidential Library. The tomb was quite remarkable as well. We learned a lot about a president that we didn't know a lot about. It was all done very well and highly recommend.
Randy S — Google review
First of all a big shout out to the tour guide Bill . He gave us one of the best tours we have ever had . This place is a must visit please add to your bucket list . You will learn a lot about one of our presidents . This was the tenth presidential libraries I have visited. Great place to take the family well worth a trip .
BILL R — Google review
Coming off a night with very little sleep (5-10 minutes), when all I wanted to do was take a nap in the parking lot after a long day of travel, I gathered just enough energy to walk inside and say hello to the guides, which led me to a "front porch" tour that did more than wake me up. It reminded me of why I had come to the Harding house in the first place, to talk with those who could offer their own American context, to appreciate and embrace what makes this nation and its leaders so fragile, so rewarding to study, despite our many faults and falls along the way.
Jeremy L — Google review
Museum is very informative. Home has been well kept thru the years with mostly original furnishings. Tour guide was excellent and knowledgeable.
Larry T — Google review
The grounds are well kept. Since we had our dog with us we passed on the tour today of the house & museum but plan to return at a later date. We spoke with several people who had viewed both and were told it was well worth seeing.
C C — Google review
Very nice tour and very clean museum. The tour guide we had was very informative and made the tour fun and educational for all of us. Lots to see and do. There is also a nice gift shop and clean restrooms available. There was not a JR Ranger Program for those that have asked, but hopefully they will add it as it would be a great addition.
Savannah P — Google review
This is an amazing find if you want to see and learn about history. When President Harding passed away, the nation at the time was in shock and grieved. Unfortunately, his presidency was not treated well as members of his cabinet were caught up in scandals after Hardings' death. It would've been interesting to see how he would've dealt with all that came out. The museum did a great job of explaining without trying to cover anything up. What was extremely interesting was how Harding and his wife supported the women's suffrage movement and equality for races. Considering how women were ignored or called "nags" if they spoke up in public, Harding respected his wife's opinion. Mrs. Harding was really the first First Lady to champion women athletes and other women's causes. Always a hit, the President's dog, Laddie is good for all ages! The tour of the Harding's Queen Victorian home, right next to the museum, is well worth it! Plus, the museum has spent the money to install wheelchair access for more to be able to have full access. The home is in amazing condition, and the front porch experience is very cool!
Leslie S — Google review
One of the finest guided tours I have ever experienced! Our guide of the house was excellent, giving a very interesting, detailed account of the Hardings' life and home. The museum was also extremely interesting, although we regretfully didn't arrive early enough to read all the exhibit information. If you are a true history buff I would recommend at least three hours to go on the house tour plus visit the museum, watch the movie, and peruse the gift shop. Finally, while not on the same property, the Hardings' gravestones and memorial are nearby and are also well worth the visit. All in all, we had an extremely satisfying day here!
Thomas J — Google review
4.7
(271)
•
4.5
(145)
380 Mt Vernon Ave, Marion, OH 43302, USA
https://hardingpresidentialsites.org/
(800) 600-6894
13

Ohio Bird Sanctuary

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Nestled in the heart of Ohio, the Ohio Bird Sanctuary offers a delightful escape for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Unlike your typical petting zoo, this sanctuary provides an intimate experience with a variety of birds including majestic eagles, graceful hawks, and charming songbirds. Visitors can wander along scenic footpaths and boardwalks that meander through lush woods and marshes near the Clear Fork River's headwaters.
Very cheap, profits support the sanctuary, kids under 3 are free, has a area to feed song birds, 25 cent cups of worms. Amazing gift store, kids play area, and on a beautiful and maintained property. This should exist everywhere.
Travis W — Google review
What a gem of a place! Very accessible, the staff were all amazing and the birds were so cool. Great prices in the gift shop as well! Worth the trip!
Krystal — Google review
Everything about this place is a sanctuary! The staff are incredibly kind and pleasant. The birds are well cared for. We had a fabulous time. The plant walk was very special, too!
Brigid H — Google review
This place is amazing on so many levels!! To see the birds so close, to feed some, the walking trails, and all of the amazing things they do for all of the avian species!!! I even had a bird on my hand eating from the cup. Best experience ever!
Donyel F — Google review
Excellent. Outstanding. The staff and volunteers were terrific. This is a real gem. Rescued songbirds sit on the ledge and eat out of your hand. Hawks, eagle, crow, falcons, all rescued and well loved at this sanctuary.
Dot M — Google review
My husband took me here and it was a nice day. Loved feeding the song birds and gazing at the hawks and eagle. Also nice trail through woods.
L F — Google review
An enjoyable visit! Very informative and staff super friendly! We will definitely visit again in the future
Deena G — Google review
Very helpful staff they will be able to take in most births except for waterfowl. The trails going through the park are absolutely beautiful I love their tree house feature that they have on one of the trails.
Heather W — Google review
4.8
(906)
•
4.5
(96)
3774 Orweiler Rd, Mansfield, OH 44903, USA
http://www.ohiobirdsanctuary.com/
(419) 884-4295
14

Harding Memorial

Monument
Sights & Landmarks
Memorial park
Points of Interest & Landmarks
I was in Marion for a business meeting, and decided to swing by this place since I enjoy presidential history. A very peaceful setting, with a beautiful memorial building in which Harding and his wife are buried. I enjoyed just walking the grounds and reading the signs. Looks like it would be a great place to spend a few hours, relaxing, relaxing, enjoying a picnic, or reading.
Kevin H — Google review
If you’re a history geek, this is a quick stop. Parking was plentiful. Beautiful memorial with historical information plaques. We were just passing through, stayed the night in Marion while on our way to NY and happened to see a former president had a memorial/grave site in the area and decided to make a quick stop early in the morning, before we continued on our journey. The site was way more impressive than I had expected—felt like it could have been in Washington DC and not in the middle of Ohio, surrounded by mostly farmland. If you’re in the area, appreciate American history, and have time, I’d recommend a visit.
Emily — Google review
This is no reflection on the president, just the memorial. Overall. The grounds are well kept and lush, the memorial itself is stunning and it's very nice to photograph. The grounds are public.
Brei C — Google review
We went on a Saturday afternoon and had the whole place to ourselves, there are two small parking lots, a paved level walk way leads you to the memorial. The marks in the marble is absolutely stunning as it makes abstract designs, also check out the metal details of the stair railings and fencing, it's a beautiful floral design.
Alisa W — Google review
Harding wasn’t a very good guy, but he could have been a great president. The memorial itself is very beautiful.
Jonathan L — Google review
An awesome experience. We learned a lot while we were there. Very impressed!
Michael S — Google review
We were driving back home to Akron from Waldo and passed this behemoth of a memorial. Had no idea it existed and we had to stop. It was absolutely beautiful and also, educational. You just don't see places built like this in Ohio. It is reminiscent of Greece. I am really glad we stopped.
Lauren D — Google review
Very well upkeep and beautiful memorial. Would be better with a handicap ramp for disabled to get up to see the memorial
Brandt L — Google review
4.7
(404)
•
4.5
(92)
966-870 Delaware Ave, Marion, OH 43302, USA
15

The Blueberry Patch

Mentioned on 
7 lists 
Greenhouse
Food & Drink
Nestled in Mansfield along Hanley Road, The Blueberry Patch is a delightful destination that offers a unique blend of experiences. This establishment features a winery, blueberry farm, restaurants, and an online gift shop. Visitors can indulge in freshly picked blueberries and explore the expansive blueberry bushes. The new building boasts spacious interiors with a charming shop offering various items and a restaurant serving delectable food.
We had an engagement party event there for our son and fiancee. The staff and food was amazing. We could not have asked for a better day, not to mention the beautiful atmosphere. Well worth the money spent! Thank you everyone for making our day perfect!
Michelle C — Google review
Very nice place to visit. We stayed overnight in our rv. They were very accommodating. Nice giftshop and can't wait to have the wine. Good food in the restaurant too. You need to give this place a try.
Roland S — Google review
Beautiful views and great food! I loved browsing in the large gift shop. They feature all things blueberry well! Overnight stay in our RV as part of Harvest Host. Great find!!
Cindy S — Google review
I’m so disappointed in The Blueberry Patch. We used to absolutely love this place—my family even celebrated my birthday here, and we always enjoyed the events they hosted. But after our recent experience, they’ve lost our business for good, which honestly makes me so sad. Here’s why: my daughter chose The Blueberry Patch for her homecoming dinner, so I called ahead and made a reservation for two. When we arrived, the owner was extremely rude. Once inside, we discovered they had roped off an area just for homecoming students and set up a buffet. None of this was ever mentioned when I booked the reservation. My daughter had her heart set on ordering a charcuterie board, but we were told the kids could only eat from the buffet—not the regular menu. I was shocked that they would treat students this way, especially when we had specifically made a reservation. If you’re considering taking your kids here for homecoming, please think twice. ⸻
Heidi S — Google review
Drove 30 min on Sunday. Thought we got there on time. Made it at 2:37 with 8 min to spare since seating ends at 2:45. Waited by the "wait to be seated sign" for bout few minutes just to be greeted with "no longer seating and kitchen closed ten min prior." I can understand this is on me for cutting it so close. But why not change the sign to seating ends at 2:30?
Robertino M — Google review
We showed up with a large party and no reservation, but Connor didn’t hesitate to accommodate us. Not only did he take our table, but he also provided outstanding service throughout our visit. Truly top-notch—thanks so much, man!
Logan S — Google review
We have been to the new building twice so far and were very impressed both times. It is beautiful inside. Our meals were delicious and the service was prompt. There is a really cute gift shop.
Carrie W — Google review
I cannot believe how rude and inconsiderate the people at this establishment were this evening. The “Gentleman“ at the door was disgustingly rude. It’s incredible people in the hospitality industry can be so inhospitable. I would give five negative stars if I could.
Travis S — Google review
4.2
(377)
•
4.0
(83)
1285 W Hanley Rd, Mansfield, OH 44906, USA
http://www.theblueberrypatch.org/
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16

Mt. Gilead State Park

State park
Nature & Parks
Great park. Wish we'd had time to explore more. Played disc golf, did a little hiking. Muddy in spots, but overall not bad. Pretty, the new dam is cool. Hope to make it back here!
Darren P — Google review
There are a lot of amenities here, basketball court, volleyball, playgrounds, camping, and a nature center. There are several trails, none of them are very long. The trails are well marked with maps at intersections. It’s not the prettiest state park in Ohio, but reservoir/dam area is really nice.
Thirteendays — Google review
Okay dude straight up I'll be honest here I can't really recommend stopping by this park. Like It's extremely muddy almost all the time. Like sticky deep mud that is real hard to navigate through if you're not properly prepared to do so. If you have boots or something it's fine but I really don't like hiking in waterproof boots. It's such a pain in the neck and I mean it's muddy to the point that my dogs can't even walk across the mud. I can't stand it like maybe after a drought come by and visit but if it rained at all you're going to be a mess when you leave here. Like I don't know man If I was driving a four-wheeler through here or like a dirt bike or something that would be a different story this would be awesome but you can't bring vehicles in here lol You definitely can't dress casually you will ruin a pair of shoes if you come in here You're probably going to leave a mess I just recommend going somewhere else. Like I said it'd be different if you could bring in like ATVs or something but this is pretty much walking only and it's just extremely frustrating sometimes especially if you have dogs. It's an okay park but the mud gets overwhelming sometimes. Just know that if you're going to bring a dog here you're either going to have to take a lot of detours to avoid the mud or you're going to have to have something set up in your car so they don't make a mess when they get back into your vehicle.
AL K — Google review
I drove through the park to see the eclipse campers. There was definitely excitement in the air. This is one of my favorite state parks. The campground can be very busy at times. I like to fish and kayak the lake. Fall colors are beautiful here.
Steve L — Google review
It's not the prettiest park in the state, but it's still damn cool.
Luke F — Google review
Our park has grown so much! So glad to see. I love our state park. We have a wonderful, knowledgeable naturalist, Meredith, whom is so knowledgeable about plants and trees, bugs and everything else in the park! I encourage anyone with dogs that love to go on walks, or young kids, to look up events !
Sara W — Google review
What I like. It’s a state park, so the price is low. The park is very clean, including the bathrooms. There are plenty of pavilions for family events. I notice law enforcement driving through several times. That should deter bad behavior. What I don’t like. No Wi-Fi and poor cell coverage. You don’t go camping to be on the internet; however, it's hard to go days without some connectivity to the world. This place is small and tight. The park is a little too cozy for me. Would I stay here again? No. If I needed something in this area, I would stay at the KOA across the street.
H.E. W — Google review
Everyone here was absolutely amazing! Especially the camp host. I fractured my wrist on this camping trip, and absolutely everyone at this site was helpful and kind. Plus the sites themselves have some of the best trees and don’t feel claustrophobic like some other state park sites. The only strange thing is the motion activated showers… there should be a timer or something lmao.
Maxwell C — Google review
4.5
(949)
•
4.0
(32)
4353 OH-95, Mt Gilead, OH 43338, USA
https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/mt-gilead-state-park
(419) 946-1961
17

Delaware State Park

Mentioned on 
1 list 
State park
Nature & Parks
Delaware State Park, situated in Delaware, Ohio, is a sprawling 1,700-acre natural haven just 45 minutes north of Columbus. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as camping, boating, fishing, and kayaking around the reservoir. Visitors can explore the forested area through trails like Mink Run trail and Briar Run trail that offer scenic views and moderate terrain.
I stayed at the campground here which was the best yet. Level paved parking & electric hook up. Cleanest bathrooms I’ve ever seen. I didn’t spend too much time in the park itself I did however complete the one looped hike & am going to comment on that. It was pretty easy, flat ground. It was beautiful because the leaves are freshly falling and giving an earthy smell. Heard lots of squirrels and birds in the woods. There is a LOT of spiders in this area - I know because I found them all over my camper and truck bed. I also happened to run into their webs with my face on the hike. It wasn’t bad, but enough to make me panic google if I was going to need medical attention if im bit. Haha, but in all seriousness it’s a simple hike in nature. Just watch those nuts the squirrels throw down- you could easily twist an ankle. Also it’s real quiet and peaceful in here. The hike can be accessed from different locations. I easily accessed from the campground.
Vikki P — Google review
The site we were in was swampy, probably because of a large rain recently - but it looks like it is an ongoing issue because hay had been put down over the mud, and it had been there a little while. Other than that, the site was fine. Because we got there on a Monday (5/19), we nearly had the whole place to ourselves, which was nice fir quiet and solitude. Shower / restroom facilities were clean and updated nicely.
Ethan B — Google review
We are very impressed with the campground. The campground is laid out very well, sites are large and bathroom/shower rooms are clean. The hiking trails we went on were OK. One was very muddy due to all the rain in previous days and had large fallen trees over the path in areas. The beach is very nice as well, with clean bathrooms, and a nice playground area. The dam access was closed due to construction but the park area had 2 amazing playground areas. 1 for smaller kids and 1 for bigger kids. A great area for a picnic. Brand new bathroom as well.
Michelle F — Google review
Beautiful grounds! Camp host was amazing. Brought ice popsicle for kids. Had a Sunday party. Then a foam party. Grateful for the hospitality. Never been to a camp ground like this. The Dam tour was neat.
Candace J — Google review
It was the labor day week end, the park is huge, organised, for all kind of different interests, camping, boating, swimming..etc. my kids enjoyed swimming in the clean water, we had a great time!
Mohamrd S — Google review
We took the dog and walked quite a bit. There were only a few people around and it was peaceful with great views of the lake.
Jon F — Google review
Great hiking spot, and we found some morel mushrooms!
Matt — Google review
This is a wonderful place to camp. You have spacious campsites. Lots of activities for children. They have a playground they have Putt-Putt. They have two large dog parks access to a beach . The bathrooms and showers was very clean they have a laundry room. it was great for the amenities that you received so it's a wonderful activity to do with your family. We'll definitely be going back to stay
Hazel M — Google review
4.6
(1664)
•
4.0
(59)
5202 US-23, Delaware, OH 43015, USA
https://ohiodnr.gov/wps/portal/gov/odnr/go-and-do/plan-a-visit/find-a-property/delaware-state-park
(740) 548-4631
18

Tanger Outlets Columbus

Mentioned on 
1 list 
Shopping mall
Shopping
Tanger Outlets Columbus is a shopping destination that showcases numerous brand-name and designer outlet stores. Apart from the shopping experience, visitors can explore other exciting places such as Short North Arts District, Downtown Columbus, and Ohio State University while reveling in the low prices available at Tanger Outlets. The mall features a shaded play area for children, various food vendors/food trucks, and requires masks to be encouraged but not mandatory for indoor shopping.
Always fun walking around the outlet. Most of the stores are still occupied which is nice. You never know what kind of deals you will come across here. Some of the main stores are Nike, Old Navy, Under Armor, Victoria Secrets, Hey Dude, and American Eagle. There's also an Auntie Anne's if you want something to snack on.
Steve M — Google review
I love this place! I save so much money, and it’s conveniently right off the highway. It’s an easy way to score expensive items for cheap. Just a heads-up—August and December usually don’t have the best deals; May tends to be the best time to shop. There’s plenty to do in Columbus, but this outlet is far superior to the crowds and prices at other malls in the area.
Nhung V — Google review
I shopped in Old Navy (one of the brands inside Tanger Outlets). There's a lot of options available. The clothes are trendy. Price ranges are around $50 for a decent shirt. The quality comes with it. Fo window shopping, or to pass some time, it's a great place. They have many stores here. There's also a Starbucks inside. It's quite nice to visit with friends and family. I didn't buy anything (didn't need anything), but it's a nice place to visit.
MANOJ G — Google review
Ah, Tanger Outlets — where discounts flow stronger than the Force itself! Nearly every store was flashing “40–70% Off” signs like lightsabers calling out to my wallet. From sporty finds at Nike and Under Armour to cozy hoodies at GAP and stylish steals at Francesca’s, the deals were as plentiful as stormtroopers at a parade. The atmosphere was bright and clean, with friendly staff and well-organized displays. But heed this Jedi’s warning: if you bring your wife and young Padawan along, your credits may vanish faster than a TIE fighter in hyperspace. Each “just one more store” turned into a galactic mission of bag-carrying proportions. Still, totally worth it. Great selection, unbeatable prices, and plenty of places to refuel between battles with the sale racks. The Force of savings is strong here — just remember, self-control is not included in the discount!
Dain W — Google review
Tanger Columbus is now one of my favorite Shopping Outlets I look forward to going to for great deals. My first shop was Adidas. When entering I was greeted with a delightful smile. Good afternoon, welcome to Adidas, is there anything you’re interested in? I shared my interest. The Customer Service Rep then introduced herself, my name is Maura, and I am confident that we have what you’re looking for. Honestly, I would have completed my purchase at the first rack and other racks in that area. But Maura made sure I explored other options and that Adidas has two logos, both known Worldwide. Understood, the different sales are currently available 50%, 40%. Make sure my size was available and check out the different colors. Maura directed me to a spacious, clean dressing room with no pins and paper all over the place. I’m like OK! I left Adidas with a smile on my face and smile in my wallet. Thank you, Maura, for a delightful shopping experience ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
William — Google review
I had limited time and only went to Clark's shoes. BUYER BEWARE!!! Upon walking into the store, the clerk said all shoes $39.95!!! (Clearly sounds incorrect, so I paid attention to that announcement). She said the same to each of the next 6-8 people who entered. I picked out two pairs and went to pay. We were taking about the area and I did not pay attention to my receipt . Got home and was charged $109. In spite of the fact that this was $30 higher, it was a good deal. However I would likely have bought only one pair. I did call and explained this to someone who said they were the manager. They said that the $39.95 was for the clearance racks. Perhaps, but that is not what she said. Then said if I was unhappy with them, I could Return to Aurora Outlet store. I guess a one hour drive is better than a two and a half hour drive to return them. (we were coming home from a trip and stopped at Rangers).
Marlene H — Google review
My first time went to Coach 🧳👜👛👝🎒🧢👒🌂☂️🧥🕶️👓🩴🥿👞👟👢outlet nice sales great, went to Claire's it was alright took granddaughter. I went to Bath & Body works the sales associate nice but it was like the average BBW no sales. I wasn't impress at all don't believe I will return except to the Fragrance Outlet they were very nice . 🌺🌺🌺🌺🏪👝🛍️💛👱🧔🏿🧑‍🦰👩🏼updated visit 7/19/25 visited aunt Anne pretzel & Star bucks, Nike store, Victoria secret & New Balance no pics!
Mz P — Google review
Great place to find well-known brands at real discount prices. It’s clean, well-organized, and has plenty of parking. There’s a good variety of stores, and some offer extra deals if you use the Tanger app. Perfect spot for seasonal shopping.
Harry S — Google review
4.5
(9101)
•
4.0
(106)
400 S Wilson Rd, Sunbury, OH 43074, USA
https://www.tangeroutlet.com/columbus
(740) 965-2927
19

Ariel-Foundation Park

Park
Nature & Parks
Sprawling, 250-acre park built on former factory grounds featuring hiking trails, a museum & lakes.
Huge beautiful park! As a photographer it's very versatile photoshoots with clients! It's also a great middle meeting spot between Cleveland and Columbus!
Gail D — Google review
The lookout tower is worth the climb. Seems a lot higher than what it looks from down low. Pretty park and lakes. I didn’t explore the whole area, but bathrooms were closed and I didn’t see a playground.
Eric C — Google review
It's a beautiful park but we found it to be a little bit post apocalyptic. The glass river seemed to have been removed. Maybe they were just redoing it but that was a disappointment for us.
Jason W — Google review
What a great way to preserve history and turn ruins into an interesting place.just under a mile walk around the perimeter. Longer if you climb the terraces and steps to the observation point. Great signage. Worth a few minutes of your day of in the area.
Dr. B — Google review
Such a great park! Half was fun and whimsical, full of art and history. The other half was so serene and peaceful
Kristin S — Google review
Beautiful, well-maintained park. You can climb the observation tower and see the whole park. Very beautiful at sunrise. Would have 5 stars if there was more shade, but most of the paths are full sun all day.
Lisa W — Google review
This park was nice to walk and check out the interesting facts about the old glass factory here. It does require walking and climbing the tower so know this before going. I enjoyed the afternoon.
Tess D — Google review
Very cute town. Not smart taking trip when 92 degrees but we did it
Tina S — Google review
4.7
(1601)
•
4.5
(89)
10 Pittsburgh Ave, Mt Vernon, OH 43050, USA
http://arielfoundationpark.org/
(740) 501-9293
20

Kokosing Gap Trail

Park
Nature & Parks
Hiking Trails
This is a wonderful Rails to Trails ride. We did 10 miles and back for 20 total. Lots of wildlife and great scenery along the way. It was a completely paved trail that had lots of stopping points, plenty of benches and great views. Well worth the visit.
Jay H — Google review
This is a very scenic part of the trail. I started at the trailhead near Mt.Vernon Avenue to the railroad bridge. The hills get higher near the bridge, and the trail and river make for a picturesque setting.These are pictures from April 6th, 2025, after a few days of heavy rainfall.
RJD — Google review
This is a great trail, we traveled from Mt Vernon to the tunnel in Howard. There is a lot of shade and some great scenery. There are places to stop and rest, and a few bathrooms along the way too.
Ken T — Google review
I can only speak to about 10 miles of the trail but it is seriously one of the best I’ve been on for biking and walking. There’s a lot of wildlife too. During my quick ride today I saw a deer and two groundhogs. A lot of the trail is surrounded by trees which provides nice shade / scenery. I love that there are benches throughout and I love the bridges! I have tried to rollerblade here before and while it was okay it can be tricky due to the sticks and debris from the trees etc.
Sarah R — Google review
One of Ohios best bike rides!! Smooth surface the whole way with a good amount of hill climbs and scenic farms along the way.
Jennifer S — Google review
Most scenic trail I have done. I parked in a parking lot in mount vernon. Went left from parking lot. Train you can climb on about 4 miles out. Another 5 miles (9 total) is the tunnel built mid 1800s.
Derek O — Google review
This is a great trail to walk or ride your bike. I travel all the way from Columbus because this is my favorite trail to ride my bike 25-40 miles. There is a tree canopy for most of the trail so you don’t have to worry much about getting too hot or getting too much sun. The initial ride is along the River on one side and a big wooded hill on the other. The trail doesn’t have many big hills to ride over, it’s pretty level.
Jordan R — Google review
Just got back from a morning bike ride with the family. This is a really nice, peaceful trail with a lot of scenery. It runs along the Kokosing river in Mt. Vernon and continues to Gambier to the south. Nice little getaway for some morning exercise and relaxation.
C B — Google review
4.9
(275)
•
5.0
(90)
Mt Vernon, OH 43050, USA
http://www.kokosinggaptrail.org/
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21

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Mentioned on 
101 lists 
$$$$affordable
Zoo
The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a sprawling park located about 20 miles north of downtown, showcasing a wide variety of land and sea life. With over 10,000 animals from more than 500 species across six themed areas, visitors can enjoy hands-on experiences like the tide pool and Jack Hanna's Animal Encounters Village. The zoo also offers additional attractions such as the Wilds conservation center, Zoombezi Bay water park for summer fun, and an 18-hole Safari Golf Course.
This was the coolest zoo we've been to. The rides do cost extra but there's so much to do in the zoo that you don't need it. There's so many animals and each exhibit is meticulously planned to provide a nice space for the animal. The zoo flowed well and we really enjoyed the different sections so we knew what to expect for the animals. Great zoo and a great experience.
Rachel B — Google review
The zoo itself was great. Very enjoyable and I loved the amount of space the enclosures had for the animals. The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is cuz the food is outrageous. $15 for a cheeseburger, $8 for a hotdogs. It cost us $90 just for food for a small party. Definitely pack your own lunch before your visit.
Laura M — Google review
What a great time going. The last time I was here was when I was a child and how it has grown and changed is incredible. Such a diverse choice of animals from different regions of the world. Great displays touching upon conservation, education, and the impact mankind has on wildlife. Many extras with gift shops, food choices, rides, etc. Highlights were the manatee and hyena displays.
Salt S — Google review
This was our 1st time visiting the Columbus Zoo and we had a GREAT time. It was cold so a lot of animals weren't out (which was expected) but the animals were did see were awesome and their habitats were set up really nice. We will definitely visit again.
Sarah L — Google review
Definitely get there in the morning because you’re going to need A LOT of time! The zoo is massive, we got there while there was still 2 hours to closing and barely saw 25% of it! We greatly enjoyed our time nonetheless! We went on a Friday and it wasn’t crowded, the zoo was very clean and we loved how large the enclosures were for the animals. Will definitely come back if we get the chance and spend all day there!
Lacie C — Google review
Honestly this zoo wasn’t it for us. We’ve been to an array of zoos over the years and found this one just wasn’t what we had hoped for. While it was clean and the layout was simple we found that many animals were off exhibit and many sections of the zoo not accessible for different events . Our favorite part however was the polar bear exhibit. It was fantastic and the animals are truly spectacular. Our least favorite is paying for parking and general admission costs, we found it to be much higher than other zoos we’ve traveled too and found that since the lack of animals on display + cost had us uninterested in returning for another visit.
Heather J — Google review
This is my absolute favorite zoo so far. The wildlife is well taken care of. The aquarium is clean, beautiful, large, it's equally very amazing. The aquatic life is extremely happy. It seems all these animals have great space to be as close to real life as they can get in safety. I love Africa to see everything's so large. The restrooms are spotless. The employees are very kind and helpful. I can't say enough good about my experiences here. It's above in comparison to others I've been to in my surrounding areas. The gorillas have an amazing habitat as well as many other animals habitats there. I spend the night at a hotel so I can enjoy the entire zoo and take my time. I love the reptile building also. I can go on..
Joyce — Google review
We had an amazing day at the Columbus Zoo. The Red Panda experience was absolutely incredible and 100% worth it. Getting to learn about these adorable animals up close was unforgettable. Tom from the Education Team was especially fantastic—friendly, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what he does. You can tell how much he cares about the animals and making the experience special for guests. Highly recommend this zoo and the animal experiences to anyone visiting Columbus!
Andrew B — Google review
4.7
(40719)
•
4.6
(2972)
4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065, USA
https://www.columbuszoo.org/
(614) 645-3400
22

Zoombezi Bay

Mentioned on 
23 lists 
Temporarily Closed
Water park
Water & Amusement Parks
Zoombezi Bay is a thrilling water park located next to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, offering a perfect blend of refreshing water attractions and spooky, zombie-themed experiences. The park features a giant pool, raft slides, high-speed mat races, lazy rivers, and more. In addition to its water rides, Zoombezi Bay also boasts haunted houses and scare zones for horror enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy non-water rides like the Sea Dragon roller coaster as well.
I enjoyed my time there. Kid and adult friendly. Parking only $10 and they have all day rental lockers for an affordable rate. I do recommend wearing water shoes to avoid walking barefoot on high traffic wet areas. It is first come first serve for the tubes at the lazy river but still very enjoyable. They have a “fast pass” option which I thought was nice. Drinks were a little pricey, but they do hand out water cups to make sure everyone is staying hydrated. I thought the burger and fry meal was reasonably priced. You can also bring your own food, get stamped, go out to your car and eat, and come back at no fee. All and all I will definitely go again! Super easy to get to as well!
Darion — Google review
We had a great time. We got there when the park opened and rented a 21+ lounger space on the same day, but they do advise to book in advance online. For reserved padded lounge chairs in the semi private shade, access to the wait staff and a safe large enough to fit a large shoulder bag, we felt that the $100 fee was worth it. Since a large locker is $22 already. And since we also came in from out of town, the day use of towels included with the lounge rental were a nice bonus. The staff running the bar in that area were friendly and helpful. I would also advise to go to the left side of the parking lot when you arrive for close access to the Zoombezi entrance. If you follow the masses, you are going to end up on the zoo side with a considerable walk ahead of you. Take sunscreen. If this is the one thing you forget, the standard 6oz size spray is $30 on site. 30-40oz of heavily tequila laden margaritas is cheaper than 6oz of sunscreen here.
Jim M — Google review
We went on weekend and it was super crowded. They have lots of fun things for kids and plenty of seating area. There’s no shade on rides. They have separate sheds for seating but you have to reserve them and they charge a lot for those “Cabanas”. It’s worth money if you’re someone who doesn’t mind going to overcrowded places.
Mudassar J — Google review
Cashless isn't always convenient. Especially for a young person working and having cash they can't spend or having to purchase a card to purchase some over priced and mediocre food. Our pizza was overpriced and was terrible. Pool was shut down nobody knew why I don't know just filled on the organized
Joseph G — Google review
Cool place for kids. Def worth it to get the annual gold pass with free parking if you live close by and will visit often. Bring food and drinks, expensive and not that great inside.
Andrew F — Google review
It was a lot of fun. The best of all is that there were not many people and we could enjoy all the attractions without queuing.
Nathaly M — Google review
I went with my friend and her kids and mine they had a fun time! Its very hot at the zoo! Get fans and water! Dont wear sandals lol! Blisters suck!
Vivian — Google review
If you like water and if you are near columbus ? Don't forget to visit this place. Beautiful relaxing atmosphere , nice food choices, awesome rides for all thrill types . It is awesome in summer.
Debsankar D — Google review
4.4
(6000)
•
3.9
(422)
4850 Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065, USA
http://www.zoombezibay.com/
(614) 645-3400
23

Easton Town Ctr

Mentioned on 
4 lists 
Sights & Landmarks
Neighborhoods
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Easton Town Center, established in 1999, is a premier shopping destination in Columbus, Ohio. Its distinctive architectural design sets it apart as a must-visit spot for both locals and visitors. In addition to retail therapy at Jungle Jim's International Market and Grange Insurance Audubon Center, the center offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in local culture.
4.6
(3310)
Columbus, OH 43219, USA
24

North Market Downtown

Mentioned on 
+101 other lists 
Market
Shopping
North Market Downtown is a covered farmers' market offering a wide array of products such as flowers, produce, and handicrafts. It's also a hub for global dining options with influences from various countries like Somalia, El Salvador, Mexico, Yemen, and Vietnam. The market features over 30 vendors including butchers, bakers, grocers, and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy farm-to-table fare and innovative dishes created by talented chefs.
Definitely the best market in cbus! You can get food and goods from many different cultures like African, Italian, polish, French, Chinese, etc. The noodle bar is fantastic, great local honey, and a pretty expansive wine and beer store. Great vibes and pleasant people all around
Amelia S — Google review
I have visited north market to get some dinner when I was in Columbus. I went there twice actually. They have a variety of food options to consider including Jeni’s ice cream! I got some pizza and some ice cream during one visit and enjoyed the food! Specifically the ice cream! On my next visit, I got food from Hoyo’s and it was very tasty too! There is an eating area one floor above with lots of chairs and tables. It closes at 7 PM (when I went there in August), so I had to check the timing a little carefully. It was easily accessible from my hotel by walk.
Vyshnavi V — Google review
What a fantastic place! So much good food! A lovely jewelry vendor, flowers, oils, cheese! Was our first time visiting and we will be back. Nice and close parking garage. Be sure to get your receipt for parking garage from the vendor you buy from. This is good for one hour of parking. Highly recommend North Market for a bite to eat and some local shopping.
Mary C — Google review
If I could leave a higher rating i definitely would. I went there with my boyfriend for the first time and my eyes immediately lit up! The food looked absolutely amazing, the pricing was way better than I had expected. The wait time for the food wasn’t nearly as long as I had anticipated. I will definitely be going back as many times as I’m able! I recommend the Birria tacos, 3 tacos for $14! As a bonus you are able to sit and overlook the whole place!
Madisyn H — Google review
First time here; quaint little place downtown. Great for new finds of food, coffees, oils / spices, desserts. Has a variety of cuisines, there is something for everyone. Seating indoor and outdoor, perfect for a lazy weekend or to meet with friends. Parking validation offered from one of the vendors I purchased from but didn’t accept when leaving garage. This would be the only downside - which could have been a fluke. Can’t wait to go back!
Ms. S — Google review
Great foodie fun stop. Shocker on this visit was the Philly Cheese Steak and Buckeye Crepe plus strawberry. The barbecue and dumplings were solid runners up. If you're bargain hunting get some fresh fries at the cheese steak shop and a slice of pizza. - otherwise prepare to spend $15-$20 Puerto item. The good is grood, but the swipes add up quickly. If you're patient you can find street parking within a block or two for cheap vs garage parking at special event prices.
Ryan S — Google review
Neat market and my group enjoyed the time they had here very much. Good food. Tables were a little hard to source over lunch. I will be back.
Midwest W — Google review
Love this market! So many choices for food, or gifts, or whatever you crave. This reminds me of a European style market. Great place to grab a quick bite.
Kelly S — Google review
4.7
(9631)
•
4.6
(856)
59 Spruce St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
http://www.northmarket.org/
(614) 463-9664
25

Center of Science and Industry (COSI)

Mentioned on 
+102 other lists 
Science museum
Museums
Planetarium
Located in Columbus, Ohio, the Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is a top science museum offering interactive exhibits, working labs, planetarium shows, and a variety of hands-on science exhibits covering themes like Oceans, Gadgets, and Energy. The museum also features a Little Kidspace for younger children and a permanent American Museum of Natural History Dinosaur Gallery. Visitors can enjoy dining at the on-site cafe and restaurant or shop at the gift shop.
There are many exhibits to explore. The dinosaur & shark exhibits were great to see, as they had life size models on display & it was very informative. The Ocean exhibit was fun because you can go into a real submarine & there is an interactive water room. One of the best things about the museum is how many hands on things there are to do. It's definitely a great place for all ages.
D P — Google review
The visit was amazing! We visited for the Unofficial Galaxies event since we are huge Star Wars fans. The event was spectacular with a ton of really insane exhibits that were mostly fan made. We were absolutely thrilled to see all of the handmade items and pieces from the films. We recommend buying tickets in advance. Also the military discount here is only $2 but still worth it.
Brad Q — Google review
Pixar was worth it for us. Our kids from 8-16 had a blast getting drawn into the animation process for at least 90 minutes then spent another couple of hours exploring, playing and creating. The older kids had been to Cosi before but had a genuinely good time taking it all in again, they also thoroughly enjoyed shocking each other in the energy section. Even some of the discovery and play areas were surprisingly fun and interesting.
Ryan S — Google review
Coming from out of town, looking to kill some time, it did not disappoint!Cool science center. There were tons of day camp kids running wild, but that can be expected on a weekday morning in the summer. Very cool hands on stuff for kids. The natural history exhibits were cool, along with the Town of Progress exhibit. Would definitely recommend if you are in the Columbus area.
Noah S — Google review
I don’t see many reviews talking about amazing the little kids area upstairs is! 1st grade and under I believe was the age range. My kiddos will spend hours just in that area alone. Dramatic play , water play, art room, wooden train /soft play, and play construction vehicles . Find on street parking for a cheaper rate than the garage.
Libby W — Google review
Wow! Just a beautiful place to take the family. The exhibits are amazing. Every time we go the Dinosaur exhibit just keeps on expanding. Just truly an amazing place and I myself learn so much. Highly recommend going especially when they change out the featured exhibits.
Chris D — Google review
This place is so worth it. For only $30 bucks we got over 3 hours of fun and useful information about the world we live in. We visited the planetarium twice for two films that were incredible and at no extra charge. You definitely can make a whole days worth out of this museum. I also enjoyed that it’s not only child oriented but also includes stuff for adults to do. Also don’t forget to check out the shows they do during the day. We got to see rats play basketball! My one and only complaint about this place is I wish there were more cool shirts in the gift shop for adults! (All the cool ones are for the kids)
Finn H — Google review
I finally made it here after knowing about it for more than 20 years and it was totally worth it. I teared up a little when I first walked i to the dinosaur room. Seriously so amazing to see. And I was in awe of the beauty in the Poseidon room. I think that might have been my favorite. An incredible experience for sure. Absolutely worth a visit!
Sarah F — Google review
4.4
(2874)
•
4.4
(1491)
333 W Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
https://cosi.org/
(614) 228-2674
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26

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Mentioned on 
+144 other lists 
Botanical garden
Shopping
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a sprawling 88-acre destination featuring both indoor and outdoor art and nature exhibits, as well as lush greenhouses and beautifully landscaped grounds. The conservatory offers seasonal displays, short-term art exhibitions, and permanent indoor biomes showcasing over 400 plant species from around the globe. Notably, it houses the largest private botanical garden collection of glass works by renowned artist Dale Chihuly.
What an amazing place! Came by on a warm and sunny day and were blown away by how gorgeous the grounds are. We saw staff working on stuff everywhere. As someone who has a hard time walking distances, I was pleasantly surprised to be offered an electrical scooter at no charge to help get around. The place is very large and clearly marked for what plants are where and also how to avoid staircases. Volunteers were very evident and were obviously happy to be there. Wonderful place to spend time.
Naor W — Google review
I had such a wonderful visit to the Franklin Park Conservatory! The different biomes were fascinating and made the experience both serene and educational. The bonsai exhibit was absolutely immaculate, and I was pleasantly surprised by how impressive the architecture itself was as part of the attraction. A beautiful place to spend the day and definitely worth a return trip!
Ryne T — Google review
I felt the price was about $5 to high. However, we booked for 5:30 entry and it was still daylight and have to have the children home at a certain time so they didn’t get to see the cool stuff come to life til we left. I understand it’s a wedding venue as I got married there at Christmas time. So we missed out on seeing the Palm house. Not spooky at all. Great for kids of all ages. Just wish the prices were lower so even the kids that come from low income families could enjoy it too.
Leslie P — Google review
I haven't been to the Franklin Park Conservatory for over 40 years and my girlfriend has never been so what better way to spend our one year anniversary than to spend a day enjoying all the beautiful sights and smells😊. It was better than I remembered! I was even better at night seeing the place lit up for the Pumpkins Aglow event. I was very romantic and the smiles she had was priceless 😍
Isaac L — Google review
My Granddaughter and her Fiancée were just Married here 11-8-25. The Franklin Park Conservatory is absolutely Beautiful for a wedding. Beautiful plants, Blown glass art, the people setting up, everything was perfect. The grounds are gorgeous for pictures, and just to walk around see topiary, plants, trees. Gorgeous place to visit, take pictures to take with family, etc.
D I — Google review
We went to Pumpkins A'glow prior to Halloween as our first visit to the conservatory. Our family enjoyed the everything inside and out. The detail and variety was amazing. We will definitely be going back for more events.
Jessica K — Google review
This was a great little excursion while in Columbus. The Flora is beautiful and the chihuli glass is incredible. It doesn’t take up your whole day to tour and I was happy with the amount to see.
Val R — Google review
I Had A Wonderful Time At The Pumpkin Aglow! The Displays Were Beautiful, The Atmosphere Was Magical, And The Whole Experience Felt Unforgettable. I Can’t Wait To See What The Franklin Conservatory Has In Store For Christmas 🥰I Just Know It’s Going To Be Amazing!
Leaan L — Google review
4.8
(11551)
•
4.7
(1721)
1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203, USA
https://fpconservatory.org/
(614) 715-8000
27

Lynd Fruit Farm

Farmers' market
Sights & Landmarks
Farms
Just look at the pictures, been coming here for years! I came hoping they would have apples 🍏 🍎 but not yet, but I got some amazing snickerdoodle cookies, 🍪 some sweet roasted almonds & pecans🥜(you have to go try if you like these) the best! I got some 🍑 (Georgia) they were so good. The bake barbecue chips were good. Everything I got was delicious. I am going back when the apples are ready. They have the best big 🍎 🍏 apples! The people 👩👵are very nice. Go out to the country side & experience it.💖
Mz P — Google review
I have been here numerous times. They carry many ohio made specialties. Meats, cheeses, maple syrup, pastries, and local produce. They are usually closed Dec-Feb. Otherwise, they have various hours depending on the season. They grow over 25 different types of apples. You can pick your own or a bag that is ready to go. They have samples of the apples so you can taste them before buying. During weekends it can be quite busy. There is a large parking lot with dedicated handicapped spots. The staff is very helpful and polite.
Amy R — Google review
First time coming here to their sunflower field and it was beautiful! We also checked out their market and they had some good produce. Can’t wait to come back during the fall to pick apples and to check out their pumpkins!
Luciana P — Google review
We came for the sunflowers and bought many products from the farm. It was a nice market and not far from Columbus. Would recommend 😻
Han N — Google review
You can buy the produce at the market or pick your own on the farm. Different times of the year offer different produce. I typically only go in the fall and usually only to the market. You can get a wide variety of apples in the fall with my favorite being Pixie Crunch. In the market they carry many products from other local groups such as breads, pies, cheese, meats, as well as their own jellies, jam, salsa and more. Just outside of the market are other vendors selling items such as popcorn and nuts, and this year there was one selling pizza. I always buy a mum here as they are huge and beautiful and at a really good price. There are activities for kids around the market and across the street is a corn maze. You could definitely make a day out of a visit here. There are bathrooms (portojohns) and a paved parking area. The parking lot fills up quickly on the weekends, but there is plenty of overflow parking available. Credit cards are accepted at the market, but I dont know about the vendors outside or the rest of the farm.
Karen P — Google review
We had a wonderful experience. Sue was an angel! (Apples are absolutely delish)
Megan B — Google review
Lynd fruit farm has a fantastic selection of apples 🍎, fruits, jellies, vegetables, flowers and more. Customer service is excellent & knowledgeable. Fantastic place to spend some time and find great food. You can self pick apples and other fruit in season or purchase in their store. Well worth the drive to Pataskala OH. Very family friendly.
Rick G — Google review
The farm offers a fantastic U-Pick Apple experience across vast orchards and features a dedicated Maze Fest area with a corn maze, bounce houses, and a barrel train. The experience is perfect for making family memories. The market is a must-visit for seasonal treats. Patrons rave about the freshly pressed cider and the impressive selection of homemade goods, including popular items like apple butter and the unique 'Traffic Jam' berry blend.
Frank F — Google review
4.7
(2647)
•
4.5
(85)
9399 Morse Rd SW, Pataskala, OH 43062, USA
http://www.lyndfruitfarm.com/
28

German Village

Mentioned on 
+128 other lists 
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
German Village is a charming neighborhood in Columbus, known for its 19th-century brick houses built by German immigrants. The area features a mix of shops selling books, handmade jewelry, and traditional fudge, alongside art galleries, German pubs, American bistros, and artisan coffee shops. In the summer, Schiller Park hosts outdoor Shakespeare and other plays. This downtown-adjacent district offers brick-lined streets with boutiques and restaurants. The entire neighborhood is on the National Register of Historic Places.
4.4
(1192)
Columbus, OH, USA
29

Trapper John's Canoe Livery

Mentioned on 
2 lists 
Canoe & kayak rental service
Tours
Boat Tours
Trapper John's Canoe Livery offers a variety of canoe and kayak trips on Big Darby Creek, suitable for friends and couples. They provide different trip lengths, including moonlight tours in the summer. The pricing is reasonable, and the staff is helpful. While low water levels may cause some scraping, the experience is generally relaxing and enjoyable with plenty of wildlife to see along the way.
The BEST kayak experience ever, and family owned by the kindest people!!! We parked and checked in inside their cute log cabin building where they had coffee, candles, the cutest sweatshirts, as well as some snacks and drinks to take with you on your trip. After checking in, the sweetest staff set us up with life jackets and kayaks (there are also canoes available!) before giving us a brief demonstration (we kayak a lot so didn’t need anything long). Tyler was so sweet and walked us through everything, telling us to take our time and about the spots we could stop to sun and eat lunch along the way. The river trail was the perfect amount of shaded and sunny, plenty of spots to dock, and so much wildlife to see! Emily, Nick, and Hannah welcomed us back, needless to say we were so impressed by the staff and the friendliness of the entire place. A MUST GO and perfect for a day or half day trip from Columbus!
Hannah R — Google review
Great place for kayaking/canoeing. I've been here a handful of times now and its always a pleasant experience. We usually canoe, it was a little over $40 for 2 us of this time, so very reasonable price in my experience. We chose the 1-2 hour trail but they told us we could stay out until 6pm. There was a spot about an hour through where you could stop if you were done. Plenty of places to dock along the way for breaks or to swim. Lots of wildlife around. There were forks in the river where there was a less and more extreme route, depending on your preference. The staff is great, friendly & helpful. We went on a Sunday this time and there were a surplus of people which was the only bad part. Other than that, I highly recommend!
Maddie H — Google review
Kayaking the Big Darby Creek today with Trapper John’s Canoe Livery was one of best experiences we’ve had after living nearby for 25 years. The creek was perfect for beginner kayaking, and the wildlife was abundant. Today we saw many turtles, as well as owls, Baltimore orioles, bald eagles, and quite a few belted kingfishers! The east side of the creek provided lots of shade in the morning. The staff was amazing, unloading the kayaks, getting us launched and were also there when we got to Trapper John’s after paddling downstream. An absolutely wonderful day. We will be back!!!
Nathan J — Google review
It was very difficult to rate this kayak rental place. As you can see from my many other posts, I try to be fair. there’s really no “physical place” or building. you just show up at a parking lot, that has an entry point and they have kayaks for you. I’m not sure if they have a building and they just can’t access it right now. then at certain points, when they are interchanging, as in kayakers are returning from a trip and then people are waiting to go out on a trip, parking becomes difficult. I am also fairly certain this is also a public access for kayaks or canoes. other than that, the staff was very friendly very informative. Explain everything to kayaks going out . making reservations Online was fairly easy. I think the prices are a little high compared to other kayak places I have rented before near Little Miami, where I got a five hour trip for the same price. And it was also nice because you went from point a to point B you know where you started and you know where you finish and then you take a bus back to the start. here you are you getting your kayak and you just paddle wherever you want. They do give you a map to follow. timewise, in regards to that map, is to be determined. You really need to keep an eye on your watch. I don’t know on how picky they are about returning exactly after whatever time you paid for, 2 hour limit or one hour limit. I do believe they have other types of longer trips that you could contract for. You’ll need to go to the website to find that out. Parking ⭐️(gets very congested at interchange) Staff ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (very friendly very informative, answered all your questions) Kayaks ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Establishment—cannot review because there wasn’t any. In other pictures that I have viewed there does appear to be an actual building for trapper John’s, but for some reason they couldn’t operate out of that at time we went. Value ⭐️⭐️ (solely based on 1 or 2hr) trip
Patricia ( — Google review
We had the best kayaking experience as beginners and all thanks to this company. Their service is so good, right from check-in, providing all the gear and their staff. The rules and professionalism made my family feel especially comfortable. Our instructor, and drivers up & back were great. Highly recommend this place for a family adventure.
Gregory O — Google review
Definitely coming back in the spring! I had an amazing time with my group! Great place for beginners, nature lover and first time paddlers. Plus the Cafe is extremely adorable and delicious with many options to choose from with fresh baked items. I have a new love for canoeing boat🚣‍♀️ Definitely a place for people of all sizes and very inclusive environment.
Danielle T — Google review
They have several options for duration/length of the trip for kayaks and canoes. Good for all ages rent or bring you own equipment. Friendly staff. Out group dragged on the bottom a bit on our trip so I recommend going when the water level is high. Overall nice spot and business.
Bradley B — Google review
We spent $100 just to kayak a short way for two people. At the end of our trip we had to wait for their bus to pick us up in the pouring rain. When one finally showed up there wasn’t even close to enough room for the 20 plus people waiting so we had to catch the next one. Also the driver had another customer load up everyone’s kayaks and that gentleman didn’t even get a seat on the first bus. The driver then said another bus would come back eventually. When a few of us finally called 30min later to ask if our ride was coming back because it’s right down the road and they had told us to call if there wasn’t a bus at the pickup point, a very rude lady told us we need to wait and there will be one eventually. After a total of an hour of waiting we finally got on the second bus but by that time multiple people were arguing, almost fighting, and cutting each other in our made up 30 person line to get on the next bus and out of the rain, thunder, and lighting. I will never go back. The old ownership was amazing and we never had any problems. It’s obvious the new ownership is over charging and trying to cut corners. I was really upset when we finally got back to our cars there were 3 buses not being used at all.
Saray D — Google review
4.4
(956)
•
4.0
(42)
7141 London Groveport Rd, Grove City, OH 43123, USA
http://www.trapperjohnscanoeing.com/
(614) 877-4321
30

Cherry Valley Hotel

Hotel
Water & Amusement Parks
Water Parks
Sophisticated hotel with a restaurant, as well as conference space & an indoor pool.
Quite simply the best hotel experience I have ever had. The room was clean and spacious. The room had a couch and our room had a patio which led right out to the parking lot which was awesome. You can prepay for breakfast if you buy directly through the website for $5 a person which I highly recommend as that breakfast is amazing. I had the omelette and eggs in a blanket for the refused breakfast and the buffet over the weekend. Both well worth the money. I recommend this hotel and will be using this hotel again for any events I have in the area in the near future.
Nicks141 — Google review
So good to see the Cherry Valley back as a general hotel without a water park. The atmosphere when I arrived on a Saturday was buzzing with a conference, a wedding party, and an endless stream of HS teens and their families taking prom pictures. The mood changed on Sunday. Super quiet. That should change. I had hot water issues in my room. Addressing it required a complete shut down of the water system. At least they were addressing it. It was good to see landscape crews working as I left. The grounds used to be immaculate. I hope the new owners will get back to green grass and less weeds. Time to replace the bathtub showers. Good luck, Cherry Valley Hotel. I had great times there from when it opened until 2005 when I moved. Bring it back to five stars.
Al G — Google review
Just got back from a weekend here. My wife and I were surprised at how beautiful the grounds are, it's really special. The service was excellent, and everybody was so friendly to work with. The layout is a bit tricky if you're trying to get to different areas of the hotel. The food was fantastic, and we though priced fair, although a dedicated coffee station would have been nice. The rooms were excellent with amazing views if you get an inward facing one. Overall, a special place in Ohio for a weekend getaway.
Brad C — Google review
The staff went above and beyond to help my family and I while we were dealing with a situation with another hotel. They embraced us and showed empathy and took time to understand our situation. They were extremely kind, caring and professional. I very much appreciate them for that. Everything was clean, calm, and inviting. Simply one of the best hotels I ever stayed in. Although a bit of a distance from town, the staff made the extra travel worth. I would recommend this hotel to anyone. Thankful for my experience.
Justin H — Google review
How lucky we found this place! So many times we've visited Granville and stayed at the Granville Inn. But that place has become outrageously expensive. So we tried this place and it's so much nicer and half the price! It's huge, very charming, nicely done. There are numerous conference rooms of various sizes from small to huge. Well staffed, friendly, and clean. This will be our go-to hotel destination whenever we're back in town.
David C — Google review
The staff, location, amenities, chefs, ambiance allowed for a “perfect” June wedding! Eric Lane, our Manager, provided low cost options to keep expenses reasonable. He was very helpful with every decision ( room setup, timing, food choices, room availability for guests staying there, photo opportunities, etc). Eric is warm, sincere, and pressure free. His thoughtful planning significantly dropped the stress level of planning such an event. Rain or shine, all guests would be comfortable. Eric was there on our Saturday ( his day off) to ensure every need was met, and all would go smoothly…which it did. The catering staff was personally engaging, encouraging, polite, making us feel like family. The Courtyard provided a stunningly gorgeous backdrop for photos. Our guests raved about the food at the Reception, quantity and succulent taste. Our sincerest appreciation for allowing our special day to be ‘perfect’! John and Colleen Kerns
John K — Google review
This place is a hidden gem. My husband and I booked a last minute getaway and it was only a little over $100! It was serene, quiet, warm, inviting and the modern touch was a great surprise. The bed is very comfortable and the huge bath tub was awesome!
Maggie B — Google review
Staying in town for work, great experience at this hotel. Most rooms have a balcony. Amenities with the courtyard and pool, exercise room. Clean room and bed, not to mention it spacious. Looks recently updated. The hotel bar has surprisingly good food for the price, Alex is an awesome bartender too!
Name L — Google review
4.1
(1437)
•
2.5
(109)
2299 Cherry Valley Rd SE, Newark, OH 43055, USA
https://www.cherryvalleyhotel.com/
(740) 788-1200
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