CLEVELAND — The state of Ohio is home to many attractions, including some of the top ones right here in Northeast Ohio.
U.S. News and World Report has released a list of the best places to visit across the state of Ohio, which includes Cleveland and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
In order to determine the best places to visit in Ohio, U.S. News looked at diversity of attractions, affordability, outdoor offerings and user input.
Below is a full list of the 10 Best Places to Visit in Ohio:
1. Hocking Hills State Park
With its stunning caves and breathtaking waterfalls, Hocking Hills State Park in southeastern Ohio is one of the state's most beautiful destinations for a romantic getaway or a family outing. Inside the park, you'll discover miles of hiking trails, including the Ash Cave Gorge and Ash Cave Rim trails, which lead to Ash Cave (the largest recess cave in Ohio). You can also follow the 6-mile-long Grandma Gatewood Trail from the welcome center to Old Man's Cave (one of Hocking Hills' most popular areas) before continuing on to Cedar Falls, where you'll find the park's largest waterfall by volume.
2. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Head to Cuyahoga Valley National Park to enjoy a relaxing outdoor escape away from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities like Cleveland and Akron. During the warmer months, this national park offers 125 miles of hiking trails, as well as ample biking, fishing and kayaking opportunities, as well as fun kid-friendly activities, such as junior ranger programs and seasonal train rides. Plus, Cuyahoga Valley turns into a winter wonderland during the cooler months, drawing winter sports enthusiasts interested in spending their vacation snowshoeing, cross-country skiing or sledding.
3. Cincinnati
Renowned author Charles Dickens once called Cincinnati "one of the most interesting [cities] in America," and after visiting, you'll have to agree. The riverfront city is home to several neighborhoods, each with their own distinct flair. Eden Park (a popular green space with 186 acres) is just outside of the picturesque Mount Adams neighborhood, while the historic Over-The-Rhine district is where you'll find Findlay Market, Music Hall and some of the city's best shops, bars and restaurants. While here, be sure to try some of Cincinnati's famous five-way chili
4. Cleveland
Whether you're a nature lover, an art enthusiast, a sports fanatic, a foodie or a combination of them all, Cleveland will appeal to you. The city's 18 parks offer everything from hiking trails to golf courses to a zoo, while Progressive Field is where you can watch the Cleveland Guardians play baseball. Other Cleveland must-dos include viewing the Cleveland Museum of Art's 61,000-plus works and learning more about music legends at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Don't leave without grabbing a bite to eat at the West Side Market
5. Put-in-Bay
Put-in-Bay, which sits less than 23 miles northwest of Sandusky and is accessible via ferry, is one of Ohio's most-visited Lake Erie islands. On Put-in-Bay, which is part of South Bass Island, visitors can take Island Transportation's Tour Train to get an overview of the island or explore attractions like Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial and the Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center on their own. Those traveling with kids will also want to check out Perry's Cave Family Fun Center, which features a butterfly house, a miniature golf course, a rock climbing wall and a giant maze, among other amenities.
6. Columbus
Ohio's capital city has no shortage of things to do. Active travelers will appreciate the miles of walking, jogging and bike trails available at the Scioto Mile. Nature lovers can spend a few hours exploring Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Architecture buffs can admire the charming buildings that comprise the historic German Village neighborhood (don't miss The Book Loft, one of the country's largest independent bookstores). Foodies won't want to miss dining at North Market, and art enthusiasts can visit galleries in the Short North Arts District.
7. Toledo
The Maumee River meets Lake Erie in this northwestern Ohio city, so visitors can take to the water on The Sandpiper boat for a picnic lunch or sunset cruise or head to Maumee Bay State Park for its sandy beaches, trails and wetlands. Beyond its waterways, Toledo features engaging attractions like the Toledo Museum of Art, which is free to visit and holds 30,000-plus pieces, and the family-friendly Toledo Zoo & Aquarium. Meanwhile, must-try food experiences include biting into a Hungarian hot dog from Tony Packo's and sipping local brews along the 419 Ale Trail.
8. Dayton
Dayton is the birthplace of aviation, so it's hardly surprising that many of its main attractions focus on flying and the history behind it. At Wright Brothers Hill and the John W. Berry, Sr. Wright Brothers National Museum, visitors can get a glimpse into the lives of the innovative pilots and learn more about the first practical aircraft they created. Travelers will also want to check out Dayton's National Museum of the United States Air Force – the world's largest and oldest museum dedicated to military aviation history – and the National Aviation Hall of Fame for more aviation background.
9. Sandusky
Located along the banks of Lake Erie, Sandusky beckons to water lovers and thrill-seekers. In addition to boasting proximity to waterfront trails and beaches, the town is home to Cedar Point, an amusement park that features some of the world's tallest and fastest roller coasters. The attraction also offers rides designed for little ones, plus a sports center and a water park. Outside of Cedar Point, travelers will find additional family-friendly facilities, including the Merry-Go-Round Museum and Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Sandusky, the largest indoor water park in the state.
10. Port Clinton
Water activities abound in this lakeside town, which sits roughly 40 miles southeast of Toledo. Port Clinton is known for its fishing, so anglers can set their lines to catch walleye. Meanwhile, recreation seekers can launch kayaks and canoes in Catawba Island State Park or take a ferry to the surrounding islands and Cedar Point amusement park. For those who like a bit more bustle on their vacation, Port Clinton always seems to have something going on, from various festivals and concerts throughout the summer to the Walleye Drop on New Year's Eve, a longtime local tradition.
**Descriptions provided by US News and World Report's rankings.
Do you think a spot in Ohio is missing from the list? If you do, you can vote to help decide next year's list by clicking HERE.
More on WKYC...
