6 Fantastic Ideas for Fall Day Trips in Ohio

Are you planning a day trip in Ohio this autumn? There are countless activities to do and places to see, many of which really shine as the leaves start to turn. These top recommendations for fall day trips in Ohio will help you plan your next journey no matter which part of the state you want to explore.

Planning a Fall Day Trip to Ohio’s Amish Country

If you need somewhere to truly relax and unplug for a day, the Amish Country is the place to go. This Ohio region is all about enjoying the simple pleasures in life. You may even feel like you’re breathing in new life as you leave the noisy city and cross the hills into the country. Add some of these items to your itinerary.

Amish Country Attractions & Activities

You’ll find enough things to do in Amish Country to keep you busy for several days. However, if you’re only here for a day, check out these attractions and activities.

The Ohio Star Theater

The Ohio Star Theater is a small theater located in Sugarcreek Ohio. Here, you will find a wide variety of family-friendly shows throughout the year, from musicals to standup comedies. The theater emphasizes simplicity and wholesome fun, so you can feel comfortable bringing the whole family along.

Amish Country Farmers Market

The Amish Country Farmers Market is your one-stop shop for all the local goods and produce sourced in Northeastern Ohio. You’ll find everything here from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade baked goods, handcrafted art pieces, and much more.

The market is held every Saturday beginning in June in historic downtown Millersburg Ohio.

Amish Country Scenic Byway

Are you searching for the perfect fall foliage tour in Amish Country? It doesn’t get much better than the Amish Country Scenic Byway.

This 160-mile route offers some of the most breathtaking views in the state, including forests, farmlands, and picturesque hills. You may want to stop at one of the charming inns along the route to extend your stay — some people say that fall is the perfect time to be in Amish country.

Local Restaurants in Amish Country

In between watching a show and observing the fall colors, you can fuel up for more adventures at one of Amish Country’s many restaurants. Here are a few top-notch options for your day trip itinerary.

Amish Door Restaurant & Village

Amish Door is, by far, one of the best-known restaurants in Northeast Ohio. It got its name because of its location right in the “doorway” to Amish Country.

The restaurant began in the late 1970s as a small diner but eventually expanded to the beloved eatery it remains today. The menu features Amish favorites, like noodles and gravy, fried chicken, and homemade baked goods.

Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen

Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen is an authentic Amish restaurant specializing in locally-sourced food. Its signature specialty is fried chicken, but you’ll find an open buffet with many classic Amish dishes, as well as locally-caught fish and homemade pies.

This hidden gem of Amish Country is a place you’ll want to return to each time you visit.

Rebecca’s Bistro

Rebecca’s Bistro is a charming, family-owned eatery in a log cabin nestled in the heart of Amish Country. Since 2002, it has served light and delicious meals in a beautiful location.

The food at Rebecca’s is locally sourced, featuring delicious sandwiches, quiches, salads, and soups, as well as housemade baked goods. You’ll also find a wide variety of specialty hot and cold drinks.

Amish Country Lodging Options

If you decide to stay overnight in Amish Country, several quaint accommodations are available. From inns to cabins, there’s a lodging option for everyone.

Coblentz Country Cabins

Coblentz Country Cabins are rustic but luxurious cabins located in the heart of Amish Country. They range in size — some are perfect for honeymooning couples, while others are fit for a whole family or an extended group.

Featuring amenities like hot tubs, flat-screen TVs, and fireplaces, these cabins make you feel like you’re escaping to the country without leaving modern comforts behind.

The Inn at Walnut Creek

Holmes County is home to the largest Amish community in the world, so it’s the perfect place to take a deep dive into the culture.

The Inn at Walnut Creek offers breathtaking views of Walnut Valley, which vary significantly throughout the year but always remain beautiful. This comfortable spot offers easy access to all the top attractions in Amish Country.

Berlin Village Inn

Berlin Village Inn is a humble but beautiful inn on the edge of Holmes County. With its location alongside the largest Amish community in the world, the inn offers access to some of the most fascinating deep dives into Amish culture.

The rooms here offer all the modern amenities that guests expect with an old-world design that’s full of charm.

Visiting Cuyahoga Valley National Park for a Day During Fall

One of the best places to see fall colors in Ohio is Cuyahoga Valley National Park. A refuge for native plants and wildlife, the park seems like it’s a world away. It’s easy to spend an entire day exploring the deep forests, open farmlands, and rolling hills, and below are some of our favorite day trip ideas.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park Things to Do

With nearly 33,000 acres of protected land, it can be overwhelming to decide what to see and do in just one day. We recommend putting some of these activities and attractions on your road trip itinerary.

Brandywine Gorge Loop

Brandywine Falls is one of the most famous attractions of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The Brandywine Gorge Loop is a short hiking trail that brings you within mere feet of the majestic falls.

The loop is only about 1.5 miles and offers several vantage points of the cascading water, which descends roughly 60 feet into the gorge.

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers tours through the stunning valley in authentic old-world locomotives, including diesel and steam-powered engines.

These tours cover 26 miles, making them perfect for a day trip. Along the way, you get to see unparalleled sights of the park while learning about the history of the railroad in Ohio.

Szalay’s Sweet Corn Farm

Szalay’s Sweet Corn Farm is a fourth-generation family farm located in the town of Peninsula Ohio. Over the last 90 years, it has grown into a popular community attraction, especially during the autumn harvest.

Throughout the fall, you can find farmer’s markets and other events happening regularly, with fresh produce and homemade baked goods for sale.

Places to Eat Near Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Exploring this big national park is sure to make you hungry. Fortunately, there are some excellent restaurants nearby where you can grab something delicious.

Fisher’s Cafe & Pub

Fisher’s Cafe & Pub has been a community watering hole in the town of Peninsula Ohio since 1958. Now in its third generation as a family eatery, it continues to serve classic pub fare to visitors in the Cuyahoga Valley region.

You’ll find hearty comfort food here — wings, breaded fish, onion rings, and much more.

Tinkers Creek Tavern

Tinkers Creek Tavern has been in business since 1902! Renovations in 2007 brought the tavern into the 21st century and found evidence of a colorful past as well.

Today, the tavern features a comfortable dining room and a spacious patio where guests can enjoy upscale comfort foods, like sliders, wings, nachos, and more.

Whitey’s Restaurant

Whitey’s has been a fixture in the town of Richfield Ohio since 1953. Today, the restaurant continues in the founder’s family and specializes in burgers, chili, and French fries.

Though the world outside its walls has changed, the experience at Whitey’s as a place to enjoy good food and friendly company has remained the same.

Where to Stay Near Cuyahoga Valley National Park

We won’t blame you if you don’t want to drive home after a long day of adventure in the Cuyahoga Valley. Here are some lodging ideas for a good night of sleep before you head back.

The Inn at Brandywine Falls

The Inn at Brandywine Falls is one of the most unique and stunning lodging options in the Cuyahoga Valley. Overlooking the waterfall from which it takes its name, the inn itself is a historic building dating from the 1840s. You can enjoy a stay in a luxury historic setting with some of the best views around.

Shady Oaks Farm Bed & Breakfast

Shady Oaks Farm Bed & Breakfast is a historic building on a working farm. From your room, you’ll be able to admire views of the surrounding pastures and woodlands. Meanwhile, the farm itself includes many of the original features, making you feel like you’ve stepped through a door into the past.

Planning a Fall Day Trip to Marietta Ohio

Located in the Appalachian Plateau, you might think that Southeast Ohio is only home to the great outdoors. However, there’s much more to do than admire the fall colors. For instance, you’ll find a slew of attractions, restaurants, and hotels in Marietta. Check out some of our top picks for fall day trips in Ohio.

Fall Things to Do in Marietta Ohio

Named one of the Top 100 Adventure Towns by National Geographic Adventure, Marietta Ohio is full of history, natural beauty, and a long list of things to see and do. If you’re only visiting for a day, check these items offer your fall bucket list.

Hidden Hills Orchard

Hidden Hills Orchard is one of Marietta’s most impressive apple orchards. With more than 5,200 dwarf trees on the property, the orchard grows 22 apple varieties.

You’re welcome to head out to the orchard to pick your own apples from August to November. Alternatively, you can stay close to the farm to enjoy fresh-pressed cider, prepicked apples, and other farm-fresh goods.

Mound Cemetery

The Mound Cemetery is an ancient burial ground of the Adena people who inhabited Ohio at some point between 100 BCE and 500 CE.

When Marietta was established in 1801, the founders officially designated it as a historic landmark. The grounds also contain more American soldiers who died in the Revolutionary War than any other cemetery in the United States.

Marietta Ohio Restaurants

When you need to fill your belly full of delicious meals, you’re in luck. There are at least two dozen restaurants in Marietta Ohio where you can expect amazing flavors. Here are a couple of our top picks.

The Galley

The Galley is located in the center of Historic Downtown Marietta. This stunning restaurant is part tavern, part eatery, and part gathering place — particularly for the crowds of tourists and university students.

You’ll find craft beers and wines galore here, as well as some of the best food in Southeast Ohio. Menu favorites include gourmet burgers and salads, steaks and pasta, and seasonal cocktails.

Boathouse BBQ

Boathouse BBQ is located right on the Ohio River, offering some of the most stunning views as you enjoy your food. Whether you’re eating inside or on the patio, you’ll have your choice of the best award-winning barbecue in Marietta.

You’ll find hearty plates of all kinds on the menu, from hot wings to burgers, steaks, fried fish, barbecue platters, and an entire section devoted to macaroni and cheese.

Local Hotels in Marietta Ohio

Do you want to stay the night after exploring the city for the day? You’ll find more than a dozen comfy and cozy Marietta Ohio hotels, vacation rentals, and more. But, here are a few that we recommend.

Lafayette Hotel

The Historic Lafayette Hotel has been a part of Marietta since 1892. The building as it currently stands dates from 1918 and still retains much of its original architecture and decor.

In fact, you’ll find historical artifacts throughout the hotel! Staying in one of these stunning riverside suites will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the past.

The Hackett Hotel

The Hackett Hotel is a historic building that once served as a family home. Built in 1899, it was renovated into an elegant modern-day hotel in 2012.

Today, you will find five rooms featuring luxurious accommodations and stunning old-world decor with all the modern amenities you expect in a high-end hotel.

Tao Cottage

If a comfy, private cottage is more your style, you’ll love this vacation rental. Located at the edge of Marietta Ohio, Tao Cottage is a secluded but upscale studio that offers access to forested walking trails, a nearby lake, and all the activities of the town itself.

The rental also offers the services of masseurs, yoga teachers, and private chefs.

Spending a Fall Day in Yellow Springs Ohio

Just outside of Dayton Ohio, Yellow Springs is a small village where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the big city — whether it be Cincinnati or Columbus. It has a little bit of everything for a recreational adventure, making it one of the best fall day trips in Ohio.

Yellow Springs Activities & Attractions

Chock full of fun, you can do everything from hiking and biking to shopping in Yellow Springs Ohio. Since you’re only planning to stay for a day, though, you don’t want to miss visiting the places below.

Young’s Jersey Dairy

Young’s Jersey Dairy isn’t just an ice cream parlor — it’s a piece of history that goes all the way back to 1869. The modern dairy was opened in the 1950s and gradually expanded to be one of the most famous ice cream locations in Ohio.

Today, Young’s includes food, homemade ice cream, and even rides and family fun — especially during the fall.

Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve

Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve is one of the most stunning natural areas in Ohio. Stretching more than 268 acres, it includes Clifton Gorge itself, an ancient dolomite and limestone formation dating from prehistoric times.

Today, the nature preserve shelters unique plant and animal life and is a popular spot to enjoy hiking, bird-watching, or simply admiring the view.

Glen Helen Nature Preserve

Glen Helen Nature Preserve is Yellow Springs’ premiere spot to enjoy the natural world while learning important lessons in ecology, wilderness survival, and much more.

One of the most fascinating attractions of the nature preserve is the raptor rehab, where wild kestrels, eagles, hawks, and owls are protected.

Restaurants in Yellow Springs Ohio

When it comes to food, Yellow Springs has some special talent serving the community. Add a couple of these restaurants to your day trip itinerary.

Calypso Grill & Smokehouse

Calypso Grill & Smokehouse is one of the most unique and wonderful restaurants in Yellow Springs. The menu features a variety of Latin and Caribbean food made with fresh, local ingredients.

You’ll find enticing options, such as Caribbean-style popcorn shrimp, empanadas, Mojo pork, and chorizo arepa sliders, as well as signature cocktails.

Sunrise Cafe

Sunrise Cafe is a small, intimate eatery in Yellow Springs that’s all about fresh, local food. The items on the menu come from dozens of farms right in the area, so you know it’s good.

The menu also changes seasonally to use the freshest produce, so you never know what you’ll find. What you do know is that it will be unique and delicious.

Ye Olde Trail Tavern

Every town needs a watering hole, and in Yellow Springs, it’s Ye Olde Trail Tavern. In fact, it’s been part of the town since its earliest history in 1827.

Today, Ye Olde Trail Tavern proudly claims to be the oldest tavern in Ohio. It continues serving drinks and German-inspired eats to visitors from all parts of the world.

Yellow Springs Lodging Options

There’s no reason to not want to stay in Yellow Springs Ohio for the night. The village has some very unique lodging options.

Arthur Morgan House Bed & Breakfast

The Arthur Morgan House Bed & Breakfast is the only inn of its kind in Yellow Springs. The B&B is made to be a retreat from the modern world, so you won’t find a TV in your room (although there is housewide Wi-Fi).

You’ll get to enjoy being in a simple, beautiful place, sitting by a roaring fireplace and eating the farm-fresh breakfast delivered to your room.

Jailhouse Suites

Don’t let the name scare you off — Jailhouse Suites gets its name from its historic use as the town holding cell. These days, the building consists of four upscale suites available for short-term stays.

This unique and comfortable vacation rental is within easy walking distance of some of Yellow Springs’ best attractions, including many cafes and restaurants.

The Library Loft

The Library Loft is a private vacation apartment rental located close to all the best attractions in Yellow Springs. The full apartment includes a queen bed, a stocked kitchen, a satellite TV, and central air. This cozy nook is the perfect jumping-off point to the historic downtown and surrounding parks.

Exploring Hocking Hills on a Fall Day

In Southeast Ohio, the Hocking Hills region is a scenic wonderland. Because of its natural beauty, it’s no surprise that Hocking Hills getaways are a favorite among locals and out-of-towners alike.

For this same reason, people flock to the area during the fall to see the changing leaves, so it’s definitely a bucket list destination.

Attractions & Activities in Hocking Hills

While the Hocking Hills region is most well known for Hocking Hills State Park, there are many other fantastic things to see and do here. During your fall road trip, consider doing a little bit of both.

Old Man’s Cave

Old Man’s Cave is one of the top tourist destinations in Hocking Hills State Park. This stunning gorge features a series of waterfalls and an unparalleled view under the surface of the earth. Hikers enjoy traveling the 6-mile trail to catch a glimpse of the cascading water.

Hocking Hills Winery

Hocking Hills Winery is the supreme spot to enjoy the fruits of Southeast Ohio. This family-owned winery has received many awards and is worth a visit to sample the unique tastes of the region. You’ll also find live events going on here throughout the year.

Hocking Hills Area Restaurants

In between your nature and cultural experiences, we recommend getting a bite to eat in Logan Ohio. Check out the restaurants below for authentic Mexican and mouthwatering barbecue.

La Cascada

La Cascada has been Hocking Hills’ favorite Mexican restaurant since 2002. It continues to be a community favorite today, serving the most authentic cuisine in Southeast Ohio. La Cascada is known for unique twists on classic favorites.

Millstone BBQ

Millstone BBQ is the go-to place in Hocking Hills for slow-cooked, succulent barbecue. You’ll find high-end, hearty plates of all types and sizes here, from pork belly nachos to beef brisket, chopped steak, and sandwiches.

Places to Stay Near Hocking Hills

It’s only natural to want to stay in such a beautiful part of Ohio for a night. If that’s the case for you, consider staying at one of these lodging options.

Hocking Hills Inn

Hocking Hills Inn features four stunning private suites in an elegant upscale setting. Each suite includes a queen or king-size bed, full bath, flat-screen TV, and private deck. Several even feature whirlpool tubs for an extra splash of luxury.

Journey Ridge

Journey Ridge offers private, two-person cabins within walking distance of some of Hocking Hills’ most stunning attractions. These woodland getaways are cozy but fully furnished, including a full kitchen, fireplace, deck, grill, and hot tub. If you’ve dreamed of living in a cabin in the woods, this is the place to be.

Planning a Coshocton Ohio Day Trip in the Fall

Not far from Amish Country, Coshocton is a wonderful place in Northeast Ohio to take your mind off the everyday mundane. The city has everything that you could want in a fall day trip while still offering the charm of a small town.

Coshocton Ohio Things to Do

Whether you want to attend exciting events or just relax with a glass of wine, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Coshocton Ohio. Here are a couple of ways that you can experience both worlds during your fall day trip.

Scarecrow Town

Scarecrow Town is one of the most unique community events anywhere in Ohio, not just in Coshocton.

This one-of-a-kind annual competition invites people from all over the region to register a homemade scarecrow for judging. The scarecrows are displayed throughout town, particularly on the special Scarecrow Walk in Clary Gardens, where the public can view them.

Three Rivers Wine Trail

The Three Rivers Wine Trail includes eight of the best vineyards and breweries, all located in the Coshocton Valley in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

Each of these is an independent location and offers an entirely different experience with unique vintages, food, and ambiance. However, each one is a part of the trail that keeps tourists coming back again and again.

Restaurants in Coshocton Ohio

No matter what your stomach and taste buds crave, there’s a Coshocton restaurant that can accommodate you. Here’s a small sample of the variety that you can expect.

Yucatan Restaurant

Yucatan Restaurant is the place to go for great Mexican food in Coshocton Ohio. Serving all the classic favorites — burritos, fajitas, enchiladas, and more. Don’t plan on leaving with room for dessert, as the portions here are truly enormous.

The restaurant draws people in with its bright colors and festive atmosphere, making it a perennial crowd favorite.

Sorrell’s On The Square

Sorrell’s On The Square is the perfect combination of high-end dining in a comfortable, laid-back setting. This locally owned, locally sourced eatery is all about using resources right in the area and elevating them to something amazing.

Menu favorites include fried Lake Erie walleye, white cheddar cheese curds, and gourmet burgers made with prime Black Angus chuck.

The Warehouse Restaurant

The Warehouse Restaurant is located in a historic building in historic Roscoe Village. Dating from 1838, the building was once a general store.

Today, it is one of the highest-rated restaurants in the Coshocton area. The eatery is known for its hearty soups, appetizers, and sandwiches. A crowd favorite is the house onion rings served with Creole sauce.

Coshocton Ohio Lodging Options

If you’ve fallen in love with Coshocton Ohio and don’t want to leave at the end of your day trip, extend your stay overnight. Several accommodations in the city offer private retreats for couples, families, and large groups.

Woodbury Cabins

Imagine staying in a secluded, private cabin where you get to enjoy the surrounding grounds and your own personal reflecting pond. These stunning cabins range from small and intimate to large enough for an extended group. They also offer access to nearby hiking trails, fire pits, and canoe rentals.

Deer Creek Luxury Cabin

Are you looking for a vacation rental made for big groups of friends or family? Deer Creek Luxury Cabin has enough room for 11 guests.

It includes large bedroom suites and an enormous patio with rocking chairs so that you can relax while enjoying the view. The grounds include 4 acres for exploring or enjoying yard games.

Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental

If you’re looking for a vacation rental where you can bring your furry friend, this is the spot for you. This beautiful, secluded cabin is nestled in the countryside.

It has enough room for four visitors with an open floor plan to provide more space. You’ll also have access to the outdoor patio, offering views of the surrounding farmland.

Discover More Fall Day Trips in Ohio

This list of fall day trips in Ohio is only the tip of the iceberg! The state is full of road trip options from its big cities. You can experience so much on day trips from Toledo, day trips from Cleveland, day trips from Columbus, and day trips from Cincinnati.

The bottom line — no matter where you’re visiting in Ohio this autumn, there are countless things to do. From carriage rides through Amish country to samples of the state’s best wines, you’ll never be bored while exploring the Buckeye State.