31 Unique Day Trips From Columbus Ohio | Fun Ohio Day Trips
If you live in Ohio, you know all about Columbus, the state’s largest and capital city. Along with being home to Ohio State University and the Buckeye football team, it’s situated halfway between Cincinnati and Cleveland. This means that day trips from Columbus Ohio are already off to a good start.
Whether you want to go north, south, east, or west, you’re not too far from your next adventure if you start in Columbus. You can take a day trip to do some shopping, explore a new nature walking trail, or check out a new city. Here’s a list of perfect day trips, road trips, and weekend getaways.
Ohio Day Trips From Columbus
Check Out Attractions in Newark Ohio
45-minute drive from Columbus
Located just 40 miles from Columbus, Newark is a great spot to go if you’re looking to get out of the city for the day. Fans of quirky landmarks can get an up-close-and-personal look at the world’s largest basket, which actually houses a company headquarters.
The Interesting Works Museum, which is dedicated to Newark’s industrial history, is worth visiting too. Here, you can learn about canal-building and glass blowing, as well as the history of the region. Keep an eye out for ancient earthworks, which were constructed by Native American civilizations in the area.
Also, consider going in early June. Not only will you be able to check out the sites, but you’ll be able to soak in the atmosphere of the Newark Strawberry Festival and nosh on strawberry shortcakes and other delicious dishes.
Experience the Ohio Caverns in West Liberty Ohio
1-hour drive from Columbus
If you’re looking to explore during your next day trip, head northwest to the Ohio Caverns in West Liberty. These Ohio caves are recognized as some of the most colorful in the United States because of their amazing collection of stalagmites, stalactites, and other formations.
If you’re going to go exploring, take a jacket and a camera. The caverns maintain a constant temperature of 54 degrees, and a jacket will keep you comfortable. With your camera, you can get amazing photos of the formations up close and be able to show them to family and friends.
Guided tours lasting about an hour are offered, so be prepared for some walking.
A Trip to Yellow Springs Ohio
1-hour drive from Columbus
There are many fun options for day trips from Columbus Ohio to Yellow Springs. In particular, Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm has excellent ice cream and a restaurant.
You can also visit the Glen Helen Nature Preserve, which has a nice visitors center, and you can learn about the area as you walk through the pathways. There’s a grotto and some interesting wildlife.
In and around Yellow Springs, is Clifton Ohio with a covered bridge and Historic Clifton Mill. There are less than 100 mills still in existence today, and this is one of them.
What to See in Mansfield Ohio
1-hour drive from Columbus
If you’ve seen “Shawshank Redemption” (if you haven’t, come on it’s a classic), you’ll really enjoy Mansfield. Even if you haven’t seen the movie, this city is very interesting.
The Ohio State Reformatory is fascinating and intriguing. You’re allowed to wander around and freak yourself out with all the nooks, crannies, and peeling wallpaper in every room. The audio guides enrich your time and point out things that you would probably never notice.
For example, there’s an ‘x’ of light that’s made between four doorways that’s always there because of the symmetry of the building. Interesting, but most people don’t notice.
Beware that there’s no heat in the building. We went in February and nearly froze to death. However, we still loved it and can’t wait to visit again.
A Visit in Lucas Ohio
1-hour drive from Columbus
About 20 minutes from Mansfield, is another wonderful site worth visiting — Malabar Farm State Park. It features lots of events, like Wildflower hikes and Maple Syrup Festivals. The home was built by a man named Louis Bromfield in the 1940s and has all the original furnishings.
It features paintings from France, a grand piano, etc.
The home is interesting to explore, and the history is fascinating. Many celebrities visited the home, and in fact, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall got married here. The home was donated to be part of a state park and is very well-done.
The state park, which is also near Mohican State Park, features hiking trails and look-outs. The tallest point in the area, Mt. Jeez, is a great overlook to see the entire farm.
We visited Malabar Farm State Park in the summer and enjoyed some of the hiking trails we’d heard about in February. We also visited the farm and saw some of the animals, and then ate at the Malabar Farm Restaurant, which uses local ingredients in their dishes.
Cedar Bog Nature Preserve in Urbana Ohio
1-hour drive from Columbus
Less than one hour from Columbus, you’ll find a 450-acre nature preserve. Thousands of years ago, glaciers carved through much of Ohio and left behind what are now protected wetlands.
Visitors will be pleased to learn that boardwalks go through the wetlands, so you won’t have to put on heavy-duty gear to go exploring. You can explore the preserve year-round, but visiting in springtime is something special when the lady slipper orchids bloom.
There’s a small fee for each entrant to help with the upkeep of the park. But it’s worth it considering all the rare plants and animals you’ll get to see.
Hocking Hills State Park in Logan Ohio
1-hour drive from Columbus
Almost every local knows about Hocking Hills State Park as a destination for day trips from Columbus Ohio. There aren’t many places to hike and see hills around Columbus (obviously), so this area is close enough it’s a hot place to visit.
However, it’s worth mentioning regardless. There are many trails and sites worth mentioning, including Old Man’s Cave.
John Glenn Astronomy Park in Logan Ohio
1-hour drive from Columbus
There are lots of great day trips from Columbus Ohio, but a visit to John Glenn Astronomy Park makes for a great night trip. If you go on a clear night, you’ll have a great experience and be able to see the night sky during one of the many weekly programs that are held.
Visitors can plan their own evenings of fun too. It’s open at all times, and admission is free. So, if you’re into stars and astrology, grab your telescope, and make the drive.
Kings Island Amusement Park in Mason Ohio
1-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus
Located just north of Cincinnati, this amusement park is a favorite spot for people of all ages to visit.
There are plenty of thrill rides to delight roller coaster fans, but there’s also Planet Snoopy and Soak City water park. A brand new coaster, the Orion, was added recently.
This is the perfect place if you’re looking to have some fun after a long week of work.
Explore Greater Dayton Ohio
1-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus
When you think of Ohio, you likely think of Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland. But if you’re looking for a fun day trip, don’t discount the numerous Dayton Ohio things to do.
If you love planes and aviation, Dayton is a place you absolutely have to visit. Famed pioneers of flight Orville and Wilbur Wright are from Dayton, and the city is where they built their first aircraft.
Also, Dayton is home to the National Museum of the US Air Force, one of the world’s largest aviation museums. You can marvel at more than 350 aerospace vehicles, missiles, and exhibits that tell of the country’s aviation history. You can test out a flight simulator and check out a 3D theater too.
While you’re near Dayton, head to Lebanon Ohio and the Gentle Breeze Hot Air Balloon Company. You can take aerial tours of either Dayton or Cincinnati, as well as see the wonders of the Ohio countryside.
A Trip to Cumberland Ohio
1-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus
If you can’t go to Africa, go to The Wilds on day trips from Columbus Ohio! It has open-air safari rides that are $30 a person, and you get to see animals in a “more natural habitat.” (Obviously, they were stolen from their original habitat, but those of us who have a complex with visiting zoos will enjoy this option more.)
The safari takes you around so you can view animals grazing or watering. Animals we saw — zebras, camels, deer, giraffes, and other animals I can’t pronounce.
A Visit to the Miamisburg Mound in Ohio
1-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus
If you’re looking for a quick getaway with the family for the day, head to Miamisburg Mound, where you’ll find spectacular man-made mounds. These are conical and easy to climb, so if you’re willing to climb up, it makes for a great family photo op.
Miamisburg Mound has a playground area for kids and a picnic area. So you can make a day of it without having to go too far.
Historic Loveland Castle & Museum in Loveland Ohio
1-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus
You may think the best and most magnificent castles can only be found overseas in Europe. That’s where you’re wrong.
Just over an hour from Columbus, you’ll find Loveland Castle, which came to be when a WWI veteran was inspired to build a French-style castle of his own. Not only can you go exploring, but the castle offers many other services, such as weddings and Cub Scout sleepovers.
As you explore and marvel at the architecture — a mix of German, French, and English construction — you can learn all about Harry (the man who built the castle), play games and puzzles, and keep an eye out for ghosts that reportedly roam around.
If you like medieval swords and weapons, those are displayed throughout the castle as well.
Salt Fork State Park in Lore City Ohio
1-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus
If you’re a fan of cryptids and cryptology, day trips from Columbus Ohio to explore Ohio’s famous Bigfoot territory are right up your alley. The park has been featured on Animal Planet and is reportedly full of the famous bipeds.
This is also where the annual Ohio Bigfoot Conference is held. So grab your Bigfoot exploration gear, and prepare to go hunting for sasquatch.
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum in Hamilton Ohio
1-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus
As you’ve already read, Ohio is home to some truly great historical sights. At this Hamilton museum, you can take a scenic drive in your car to see this more than 300-acre sculpture park. If you want something a little more adventurous, rent a golf cart for a closer look.
While you’re here, stop at the Ancient Sculpture Museum, where you can see sculptures from many civilizations, including the Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians.
Explore Greater Cincinnati Ohio
1-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus
There’s a lot to do in Cincinnati.
The second time we went to Cincinnati, we visited a few other places worth mentioning — such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which discussed the harrowing effects of slavery in the United States and current slavery that still exists in the world.
It’s one of those places that you want to be mentally prepared for. It’s thought-provoking and extremely intense to walk through. It features large printed slave ship sketches, a slave pen, etc.
Right outside of the Freedom Center is a waterfront area with a park and suspension bridge to walk on. The suspension bridge goes over the Ohio River and connects Covington Kentucky with Cincinnati.
We also visited the Cincinnati Art Museum, which is free and has a fantastic clothing exhibit and other amazing artwork! It was a beautiful museum to visit. Other places we visited there were Spring Grove Cemetery, which had some beautiful graves and other structures within the arboretum.
Even though there was a wedding going on and we couldn’t explore the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption completely, we were able to see the nave inside and the beautiful building on the outside. I would like to go back when it’s not full of wedding guests to explore the rest of it.
After sightseeing, we ate dinner at a restaurant called Taft’s Ale House, which boasts a very decadent menu. It was in an old building and had great food, beer, and cocktails.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Brecksville Ohio
2-hour drive from Columbus
Believe it or not, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the only national park in the state of Ohio. You’ll find it north of Columbus and close to Cleveland. If you love nature, you’ll be blown away by the natural beauty found along the Cuyahoga River, including caves, Brandywine Falls, and the Blue Hen waterfall.
If you’re up for hiking trails, there’s a historic canal that you can traverse on foot. That canal connects Ohio to the rest of the country by stretching to Lake Erie in the north.
Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton Ohio
2-hour drive from Columbus
The Pro Football Hall of Fame is a wonderland for fans of the gridiron and day trips from Columbus Ohio. You can take a guided tour or tour the Hall of Fame at your leisure, soaking up the history and checking out the busts of some of the greatest players in the National Football League.
Much like the rock hall, you can see exhibits from some of the greatest players. Additionally, you can see some of the game’s greatest artifacts — including jerseys and balls from memorable games.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland Ohio
2-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus
If you’re a fan of rock and roll, you’ll be as happy as a kid in a candy store with a visit to this Cleveland hallmark. You’ll find multiple floors packed with guitars, costumes, and other memorabilia from all your favorite rock stars — including the Who, the Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix.
Not only can you see iconic pieces of rock history, but there are plenty of chances for fans to interact. The Garage also allows fans to play instruments along with instructional videos.
A theater lets you see iconic moments in rock-and-roll history, and listening stations let you hear songs that shaped that history.
What to See in Chagrin Falls Ohio
2-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus
Chagrin Falls is an adorable little suburb of Cleveland. The main area has an old-timey popcorn shop, Jeni’s Ice Cream, and the actual waterfall to view. The town is fun to walk around and explore.
When we went, we had a Groupon for an adorable bed and breakfast called The Club at Hillbrook. The rooms are beautiful, spacious, and elegant. We ate dinner in the main restaurant, which had cute string lights and overlooked the large property.
You can also walk around the property and enjoy some of the interesting trails and nature nearby.
Enjoy Greater Cleveland Ohio
2-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Chagrin Falls shouldn’t be the only things you see while you’re in C-town. If the weather is cooperative, you can tour some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.
If you’re itching to shop, the historic West Side Market offers some of the freshest food you’re likely to find anywhere. Also, check out the Cleveland Arcade, which is home to equally impressive stores and restaurants.
If you’re a fan of “A Christmas Story,” the house used in the movie can be found in the Tremont neighborhood and has been renovated to look exactly as it did in the movie. There are even more Cleveland day trip ideas to explore too.
Related: 30+ Amazing Things to Do in Canton Ohio | Top Attractions, Dining, Lodging, & More
Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky Ohio
2-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus
If you like the roller coaster theme, you can travel a little further on day trips from Columbus Ohio to visit the Cedar Point Amusement Park, dubbed by some as the “roller coaster capital of the world.”
If you’re looking for extreme coasters, take a ride on the Magnum, Maverick, Millennium Force, and Raptor — just to name a few. If you’re not into coasters, there’s also a water park and resort-like amenities.
Lake Erie Shores & Islands in Sandusky Ohio
2-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus
Aside from roller coasters, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Sandusky. If you’re up for exploring, visit Paddle and Climb and rent a kayak or paddleboard. Once you launch your vessel of choice, you can spend the day on the water.
Make no mistake, Lake Erie is beautiful all year round. If you go during the summer months, wear a hat and sunscreen, and drink plenty of fluids.
Related: 13 Best Indoor Things to Do in Sandusky Ohio
Day Trips From Columbus Outside of Ohio
Newport Aquarium in Newport Kentucky
1-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus
Just across the river is Newport Kentucky, where I’ve visited the wonderful Newport Aquarium and waterfront area. If you love the sea, you’ll see plenty of animals — including a giant Pacific octopus, sharks, sea turtles, rays, and a giant grouper.
If you’re looking for a fun family day trip from Columbus, especially with young kids, this is the place to go. Your children’s eyes will light up in wonder as they see rare white alligators, penguins, and thousands of the most exotic creatures in the world.
There’s even a rope bridge that crosses over the top of a tank full of sharks. Also, check out one of the newest exhibits, Shipwreck: Realm of the Eels, where you can see a sunken ship and the creatures that live in and around it.
I’ve been to Cincinnati twice to see the aquarium, which is amazing. The aquarium is a great place to visit at any time of the year, but winter is a fun time to visit the turtles and alligators.
The sharks that swim overhead while you’re walking through is a wonderful feature.
Explore Fort Wayne Indiana
2-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus
You may be thinking to yourself, why would I plan day trips from Columbus Ohio to Fort Wayne? Well, the city has a lot to offer and is home to a lot of history. It has three different rivers, so you have ample opportunity to kayak, canoe, and paddleboard.
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo has consistently been named one of the nation’s best. And, you can visit the “Old Fort,” a reconstruction of Fort Wayne from 1815.
On top of that, Fort Wayne is home to a thriving cultural district, where you can visit the Fort Wayne Civic Theatre and the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, among other attractions.
A Visit to Indianapolis Indiana
2-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus
During a day trip from Columbus to Indianapolis, you’ll see a beautiful skyline, a thriving sports scene, and lots of history.
If history is your thing, take a gander down Canal Street. You’ll find the Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial and the Indiana State Museum on one end of the street. On the other end is a monument to the U.S.S. Indianapolis.
You can also check out the Indianapolis Zoo and the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. If you’re hungry, stop for a brew at Rathsekllar, and marvel at the Indy skyline. You can get some delicious German food there too.
Enjoy Ann Arbor Michigan
3-hour drive from Columbus
Columbus locals may roll their eyes at taking a trip to visit “That School Up North,” but beyond the Michigan-Ohio State football rivalry, Ann Arbor is a town worth checking out. It has been named one of the coolest small towns in America with plenty of shopping and more than 300 bars and restaurants.
If you’re feeling adventurous, visit Gallup Park, Ann Arbor’s most popular recreation area. Here you can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats. You can go on nature walks, or stop to have a family picnic. If you own a boat, there’s even a boat launch, so you can spend the day fishing or tubing.
Experience Pittsburgh Pennsylvania
3-hour drive from Columbus
Believe it or not, the major Pittsburg metropolis isn’t too far from Columbus, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. If you love sports, head to PNC Park to catch a Pittsburgh Pirates game.
If you love museums, head to the Carnegie Museum of Art, where you can see awe-inspiring exhibitions that change annually. If you’re looking for great food, you can’t go wrong with a stuffed sandwich from Primanti Bros. or a succulent steak at Butcher in the Rye.
What to See in Louisville Kentucky
3-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus
Even outside of the Buckeye State, there are awesome destinations for day trips from Columbus Ohio. If you like bourbon, Louisville is the place for you.
There are many bourbon distilleries around the city, and you can pick up a passbook and follow the trail. Also, you can do bourbon tastings, although you won’t see how it’s manufactured.
Some restaurants and bars offer tastings, and the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience is a fun option within the city.
In addition, the boardwalk is a nice place to walk around, and there are good views of the river. There are a lot of places to eat and bars with all sorts of live music.
Coopers Rock State Forest in Bruceton Mills West Virginia
3-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus
I just visited Coopers Rock State Forest on our way back from Maryland. The views are beautiful, and I didn’t get a chance to explore the entire place.
The main lookout point was very crowded with people, although I think it was the time of year and time of day we went. There was perfect October weather in the afternoon! I suspect if you aim to go here in the morning, it will be less crowded, and when you get to some of the main trails it won’t be so bad.
There’s a main overlook area, with pay-to-view finders, and then there are hiking trails you can take that will bring you off the main overlook to an underlook. There’s also a gift shop and a park. If it’s nice out, I think you can really make a full day of it.
Consider visiting other attractions on day trips from Columbus Ohio to West Virginia.
A Tasty Visit in Dunbar Pennsylvania
3-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus
In Dunbar Pennsylvania, you can see some Frank Lloyd Wright homes and caverns, sample some berry pie, and view the rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania. There are plenty of things to do on a day trip from Columbus to Western Pennsylvania, and it’s all less than four hours from Columbus!
More Tips for Taking Day Trips From Columbus Ohio
There are a lot of museums in Ohio that have some great history to share. They also do a lot of public programming.
If you’re a history-lover, you should check out the Ohio History Connection’s calendar of events to get ideas for what’s going on not only in Columbus but also in all the historic homes, museums, and outdoor sites managed by the Connection.
You may find a self-guided hike at Wahkeena Nature Preserve, the art of historical cooking at Fort Hill Earthworks, or a White House chef visit at the Hayes Presidential Center. Those would make great day trips from Columbus Ohio as well.
Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips From Columbus Ohio
What cities are an hour away from Columbus Ohio?
There are quite a few cities that sit just a short distance from Columbus. Within a one-hour drive, you can visit Urbana, Yellow Springs, Lexington, Fairborn, Bellefontaine, and Cedarville — just to name a few.
What cities are 3 hours from Columbus?
One of the best things about Columbus is its central location. Within a three-hour drive, you can explore Dayton, Cleveland, Indianapolis, and Pittsburgh — not to mention lots of exciting, small, and unique towns in Ohio.
Which cities are within a 4 hours drive of Columbus Ohio?
As you’ve read, there are a lot of cities within a four-hour drive of Columbus. Depending on what you want to do, you can easily travel to Fort Wayne or Indianapolis in Indiana; Dayton, Cincinnati, and Cleveland in Ohio; and Ann Arbor in Michigan.
What is there to do in a one-day trip to Ohio?
A better question is “What isn’t there to do?” The only limit to what you can do in Ohio is your imagination. If you’re a state resident looking for day trips from Columbus Ohio, you can go in any direction and find something amazing.
If you love sports, head to Indianapolis or Pittsburgh. If you love art, drive to Pittsburgh or Fort Wayne. If you want great eats, pick a direction and head for the nearest big city.
What is there to do between Columbus and Cleveland?
This is a case of there just being too many options to choose from. If you’re planning road trips from Columbus Ohio up to Cleveland, there are a lot of stops you can make in just over two hours.
You can get in touch with nature at Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga National Park. Or, soak up some history at Thomas Edison’s birthplace in Milan or the Harding House Presidential Suite in Marion. You can also stop in Akron to visit the Akron Zoo.
Explore Amazing Things to Do on Day Trips From Columbus Ohio
No matter what you want to do or where you want to go, fun is only a short distance away from Columbus, Ohio. Whether you want to take a spontaneous day trip with the family or plan the perfect weekend getaway with friends, you can literally pick a direction and drive.
You can squeeze even more fun out of day trips from Columbus Ohio by making stops as you drive to a bigger city, such as Pittsburgh or Cleveland. So, grab your friends and family, ready the car keys, and hit the open road!
Looking for More Day Trips in Ohio?
Maybe you’re not starting your day trips in Ohio from Columbus… no worries. We’ve put together a few other Ohio day trip starting guides:
- Explore Ohio & Beyond: 20 Excellent Day Trips from Cleveland
- 21 Amazing Day Trips from Cincinnati in Ohio, Kentucky, & Indiana
Lots of great ideas for our next day trip! You can travel 45 minutes North of Columbus to Marion and see the largest monument to a U.S. president outside of Washington DC, the historically accurate and beautifully restored home of President Warren G. Harding and the newly built presidential museum. A unique experience for sure!
You did not mention Put-in-Bay
No mention of Amish country in Holmes County, one hour and a half south east of Columbus.
Enjoy the laid back rural Holmes County, we have the largest Amish population in Ohio.
Plenty of shops, hotels, restaurants, Holmes county is visited by people from all over the country and the world.
No better place to spend the weekend away from all the hustle and bustle.