Ohio boasts many beautiful views to enjoy in the summer: Take a look

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Ohio changed its slogan from "Find it Here," to "Ohio, the Heart of it All" in 2023, after people across the state jokingly wondered what exactly it was that tourists should expect to find.
It turns out, what they might find is unexpected natural beauty.
While certainly more unassuming than other states, Ohio boasts 76 free state parks, Cuyahoga Valley National Park and seven other national historic sites.
From natural spaces within larger cities like the Scioto Mile in Columbus to the shores of Lake Erie or the hills all along the state's southern border, Ohio offers outdoor treasures for visitors and seasoned Ohioans alike.
This is part of a new USA TODAY network project showcasing breathtaking -- and perhaps, underappreciated -- views throughout the United States. These are some of the most beautiful landmarks, scenic vistas and hidden gems you can truly treasure in your area.
[ Most Treasured Views in America: National | West | South | Middle America | Northeast ]
Here are top picks for finding "it" in the heart of it all.
Cedar Point has earned the moniker of "America's Roller Coast." The Sandusky, Ohio, amusement park offers views of Lake Erie along with a pristine sandy beach. But it is the park's skyline that makes this view so treasured.
Cedar Point is home to one of the largest collections of thrill rides in the world, and many reach high into the sky.
But it is the park's collection of 19 roller coasters with the addition of Siren's Curse this summer that makes it one of the most popular destinations in all of Ohio.
Enjoy the thrills: With some 67 rides, including world-class roller coasters like the Millennium Force and Maverick, the park offers thrills and chills to fit every age. There are also classic rides, like the historic carousel and a steam train to ride.
Step into the Peanuts' world: Kids and kids at heart can get a hug from a Peanuts character and take in a live show, or two or three.
Splash in the water: There is a water park — Cedar Point Shores — that requires a separate admission, but once inside of the 364-acre park, guests can retreat to its mile-long beach and take in the views of Lake Erie.
You will need a ticket to visit Cedar Point or Cedar Point Shores. The gate price to enter the amusement park is $90, but the park offers deals on tickets purchased in advance, online at cedarpoint.com. It also costs $30 per vehicle to park. The water park admission is $60 if purchased at the gate. Discounted tickets are also available online.
And if you are looking for a unique way to take in the Cedar Point skyline, take the ferry to the park. During the heart of the busy summer season, Jet Express offers ferry rides to and from the park, along with Put-in-Bay, Kelleys Island and Sandusky. The prices and schedules vary.
More information, including lodging and more, can be found at cedarpoint.com, or by calling 419-627-2350.
Ashtabula County is known to many as the covered-bridge capital of Ohio, as the area has a whopping total of 19.
"Some look upon these engineering feats and appreciate the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the builders. Others are in awe of the simple beauty of the historic structure as part of the landscape: magical and colorful crossings set against the area's rolling hills and vineyards," the Visit Ashtabula County website read.
"Covered bridges offer a one-of-a-kind look at a bygone era."
The county is also home to the longest covered bridge in the United States. The Smolen-Gulf bridge, dedicated in 2008, spans 613 feet, and has a life expectancy of 100 years.
Visit a state park: Ashtabula County houses two state parks — Geneva State Park and Pymatuning State Park — that offer travelers a scenic addition to their bridge excursion.
Go fishing: Visitors can take advantage of some prime fishing opportunities in the county, as the area is on Lake Erie and boasts great spots for catching steelhead, walleye and perch.
Visit a winery: Ashtabula County is home to Ohio's wine country. Located on the Grand River Valley, the region houses more than two dozen wineries, responsible for growing 50% of Ohio's grapes, according to the Ashtabula County Visitors Bureau.
Go to the covered-bridge festival: Each year, the county's bridges are celebrated at the Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival, typically falling on the second weekend in October. Guests can take advantage of a variety of activities, including guest speakers, souvenir booths and food vendors.
The bridges span throughout the county, but the first few on the trail are located near Jefferson. They also are in areas near Conneaut. The full trail passes through other villages and towns as well.
Here's where all 19 bridges are located:
Windsor Mills Covered Bridge: 7696 Warner Hollow Road, Windsor
Benetka Road Covered Bridge: 4500 Benetka Road, Ashtabula
Caine Road Covered Bridge: 4699 Caine Road, Pierpont
Creek Road Covered Bridge: 371 Creek Road, Conneaut
Doyle Road Covered Bridge: 1300 Doyle Road, Jefferson
Giddings Road Covered Bridge: 1399 Giddings Road, Jefferson
Graham Road Covered Bridge: 4646 Graham Road, Pierpont
Harpersfield Covered Bridge: 1122 Harpersfield Road, Geneva
Mechanicsville Road Covered Bridge: 1153 Mechanicsville Road, Geneva
Middle Road Covered Bridge: 910 Middle Road, Conneaut
Netcher Road Covered Bridge: 1544 Netcher Road, Jefferson
Olin Covered Bridge: 1880 Dewey Road, Ashtabula
Riverdale Road Covered Bridge: 3349 Riverdale Road, Rock Creek
Riverview Covered Bridge: 4761 State Road, Ashtabula
Root Road Covered Bridge: 4680 Root Road, Conneaut
Smolen-Gulf Covered Bridge: 4878 Plymouth Ridge Road, Ashtabula
South Denmark Road Covered Bridge: 2670 S. Denmark Road, Jefferson
State Road Covered Bridge: 5899 State Road, Kingsville
West Liberty Street Covered Bridge: 94 W. Liberty St., Geneva
All of Ashtabula County's covered bridges are available to visit, free of charge, according to a representative at the Ashtabula County Visitors Bureau. They are also pet-friendly.
Those who are looking for more information about Ohio's covered-bridge capital can find it at visitashtabulacounty.com or by calling 440-275-3202.
Head north anywhere in Ohio and you simply can't miss it: Lake Erie.
With some 300 miles or so of shoreline, Ohio boasts some pretty spectacular views of the pretty Great Lake. The shoreline stretches from Conneaut, where reenactors each August storm the beach to recreate the D-Day invasion, to Toledo, where you can nosh on famous Tony Packo's Hungarian food not far from the lapping Lake Erie waves.
And there's plenty to view from every point in between, including posing in front of the script Cleveland sign and the spectacular view offered from atop the Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial in Put-in-Bay.
Ohio boasts some 18 lighthouses along Lake Erie and some are open for tours, like the one in Fairport Harbor. But one stands out as the most visited and photographed landmark in all of Ohio — the Marblehead Lighthouse.
Soak in the history: The Marblehead Lighthouse holds the distinction of being the oldest lighthouse in continuous operation on the Great Lakes. Since 1822, the lighthouse has guided boats to safety along the rocky shores of the Marblehead Peninsula.
Get in your steps for the day: The working lighthouse is open for tours from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Tours start every 20 minutes and, for $3, you can take the 77 steps to the top of the lighthouse to check out the view.
Have a picnic: There are picnic tables on the grounds around the lighthouse that offer scenic views of Lake Erie.
The lighthouse is located in the Marblehead Lighthouse State Park, located at 110 Lighthouse Drive, Marblehead.
It is free to visit and tour the grounds, the lifesaving station and gift shop. There is a small fee ($3) to tour the lighthouse.
There are other attractions like the African Safari Wildlife Park and the Liberty Aviation Museum both in nearby Port Clinton, and some pretty tasty places to eat with views of Lake Erie.
For information on lodging and more, visit ohiodnr.gov.
The Scioto Mile offers the best of both worlds: a scenic riverfront complete with lush green grass and a dramatic urban backdrop of a city skyline offering proximity to bustling neighborhoods, bike paths and scenic railroad bridges.
Go for a stroll: This is the ultimate lunch break or weekend activity. Start at North Bank Park and hop on a path along the river. With the river on your right, you'll stroll past downtown Columbus and take in the Scioto Mile Fountain — also a great spot to take your kids if you're looking to fill a warm afternoon. You can cross the river along one of several bridges and take in the full view of the skyline rising above the water.
Paddleboard: Windrose Outdoor offers kayak and paddleboard rentals. You just book a timeslot on the website (kayaks and paddleboards are available Wednesdays through Thursdays), and meet up at Bicentennial Park for a 1-mile paddle along the scenic corridor.
Grab a drink: Alas, Milestone 229 is no more, leaving the riverfront without a scenic restaurant. But the area is part of the city's designated outdoor refreshment area (DORA). From 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., visitors that are of age can buy a drink from participating businesses within the DORA and partake while they take in the sights.
Watch a movie: NightLight614 offers outdoor movies at Genoa Park, on the west side of the river in front of COSI. The events, which sell out quickly, include local brews, wine and food trucks.
The Scioto Mile is a stretch of connected parks and trails along the Scioto River in downtown Columbus, Ohio, all free to see.
Parks along the picturesque stretch include the Scioto Audubon Metro Park, North Bank Park, McFerson Commons Park, Dorrian Green and a handful of others.
All the parks and trails along the stretch are free and easily accessible from a variety of entry points Downtown.
Lodging can be found at the many hotels within downtown Columbus. The parks are pet-friendly and handicap accessible. More details can be found at sciotomile.com, or by calling 614-645-3300.
Hocking Hills has been called one of "The 50 Most Beautiful Places in America," by Condé Nast Traveler magazine. The state park spans more than 10,000 acres and includes cliffs, waterfalls and gorges in its vast space in southeastern Ohio.
By exploring the hiking trails that lead you to caves and unique rock formations, every visitor can experience nature the way it was meant to be seen. With multiple trails to choose from, visitors can spend an entire day, weekend or vacation seeing every inch of the state park.
Hike over 50 miles of trails: Hocking Hills has seven major trails to explore, including the popular Old Man's Cave. The trail at Cedar Falls gives hikers a view of a waterfall, and the trail at Cantwell Cliffs is the most remote of all trails, allowing visitors to explore rock formations up-close.
Zip line over nature: Hiking not your thing? Maybe flying is. Zip around the state park with Hocking Hills Canopy Tours. The exhilarating experience gives visitors breathtaking views of the beautiful nature of southeastern Ohio.
Enjoy the water: Grab a boat and head onto the water at one of Hocking Hills' three water destinations. Visitors can go kayaking, canoeing, tubing or fishing on Lake Logan, the Hocking River or Lake Hope.
Visit Logan: The small town of Logan is the closest hub to the state park. Logan offers shopping and dining experiences, as well as festivals during certain weekends of the year.
While hiking trails are free to explore, please visit explorehockinghills.com for prices of other outdoor activities.
If you want to bring a furry friend along for the fun, most hiking trails are pet-friendly, with some restrictions.
The Hocking Hills area also has a generous amount of lodging. From hotels in Logan, cabins in the park and unique spots via Airbnb, there is no shortage of places to choose from.
Visit explorehockinghills.com for more information, or call 1-800-HOCKING (462-5464).
As far as national parks go, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a bit of a youngster.
The park that stretches some 33,000 acres from Akron to Cleveland along the Cuyahoga River is marking its 50th year. But its hidden natural wonders were forged many eons before it reached its status as a national park.
It annually is ranked among the most visited national parks in the country, and the last available ranking had it as the 12th most visited national park in the country with 2.8 million visitors.
There are some 100 or so waterfalls scattered throughout the park. The tallest and most popular is Brandywine Falls.
Take a hike: There are some 130 or so trails stretching more than 125 miles within the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, including the Brandywine Gorge Trail that leads to the falls.
Pack a picnic: A popular option for visitors to Brandywine Falls is to pack a picnic. There are picnic areas throughout the national park.
Learn a bit more: The nearby Boston Mills Visitor Center offers a good place to relax for a bit and learn more about the history of the national park, including the Ohio and Erie Canal and Brandywine Falls. The free visitors center is located at 6947 Riverview Road in Peninsula.
Take a train ride: The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers regular excursions through the national park. You can sit back and enjoy the scenery while riding aboard historic railroad passenger cars.
There is no charge to visit Brandywine Falls, but parking at 8176 Brandywine Road in Sagamore Hills Township is limited. Rangers suggest visitors come early or later in the day during the busy summer season, as it's a top destination.
To view the 60-foot-tall falls, you have to take a short hike on a boardwalk and navigate some steps to get a close-up view. The falls were carved by Brandywine Creek, and a layer of hard rocks are on top and the water cascades down to softer layers of rock below.
Pets on a leash are welcome at the falls that is also accessible from nearby trails within the national park. For information about lodging and more, visit nps.gov.
Eden Park, nestled between East Walnut Hills and Mount Adams, is home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park and the Krohn Conservatory. It also offers sweeping views of the Ohio River and Kentucky, making it one of the most popular parks in the Queen City.
There are several landmarks within Eden Park, which encompasses 186 acres, including an enchanting gazebo that can be rented for an intimate wedding ceremony; Seasongood Pavilion, which hosts outdoor concerts; and Mirror Lake, featuring the Bettman Fountain in the center and the Spring House Gazebo overlooking the lake.
Also, within Eden Park are sculptures, a playground, a historic 172-foot-high water tower from 1894 and plenty of walking paths. The park's newest feature is Tom Jones Commons, which includes a walking loop, wetlands with a walking bridge, a picnic shelter, natural play areas, seating, improved landscaping and a connection from the lower reservoir area to Seasongood Pavilion and Mirror Lake.
Visit the Cincinnati Art Museum: Explore a diverse collection of art, including American and European paintings, sculptures and decorative arts. General admission is always free, however, exhibition ticket pricing varies.
Explore Krohn Conservatory: Explore the wonders of Krohn Conservatory, which is considered to be one of the largest public greenhouses in the United States. Visitors can explore the exotic tropical, desert and orchid plants the conservatory has to offer all year long. One of the conservatory's most exciting exhibits is its butterfly event, where thousands of butterflies are free to fly around throughout the showroom in a themed garden.
Catch a performance at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park: The Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park is the region's preeminent professional theater, which has won two Tony Awards. Tickets for the theater's 2025-26 season go on sale to the public on July 15.
While it's free to visit and explore Eden Park and the Cincinnati Art Museum (exhibit pricing varies), visitors have to buy tickets to the Krohn Conservatory or to watch a play at the Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park. Please visit cincinnati-oh.gov for pricing on other outdoor activities.
Visitors may bring a furry friend along for the fun, as Eden Park is pet-friendly, however, visitors must keep their dogs on a leash and controlled at all times.
Eden Park does not have on-site lodging. However, there are several lodging options nearby, such as SpringHill Suites Cincinnati Midtown and other hotels located in downtown Cincinnati.
The park is largely accessible to those with disabilities, according to the city of Cincinnati. Eden Park's outdoor amphitheater, Seasongood Pavilion, is accessible with ramps, and while some trails have elevation changes, AllTrails, a fitness and mobile website, notes that the Eden Park Outer Loop has the most elevation gain of all wheelchair-friendly trails in the area. The park also has accessible parking.
Visit cincinnati-oh.gov for more information.
Devou Park is actually in Kentucky, but it's home to one of the most scenic views of downtown Cincinnati and is described as having "the best view in town," according to the park's website. Just beyond the park's golf course sits its highest peak, the city overlook, which offers a breathtaking panorama of Cincinnati and Covington, Kentucky.
Spanning more than 700 acres, the city's largest park includes a lake, backcountry and paved trails, a golf and disc-golf course, an amphitheater, picnic shelters and a nature play area, all nestled in the hills of northern Kentucky.
Play golf: Tucked among Devou Park's rolling hills sits the scenic 18-hole golf course that provides golfers a "unique opportunity to connect with nature," thanks to its beautiful view throughout the course's 6,091-yard layout. The park's newly redesigned clubhouse is open and available for casual drinks and food after a day out on the course, so you'll leave relaxed and refreshed, no matter how you score.
Have a scenic picnic: It's easy to stop, relax and enjoy a picnic at Devou Park with its spacious lawn areas and various picnic tables littered throughout. Devou Park has five favorite picnic spots, including the lawn at Band Shell, the Overlook, the park's picnic shelters, the Rotary Grove Memorial and the picnic tables at Prisoners Lake.
Take a bike ride or hike: Whether you feel like hiking or biking, Devou Park offers both backcountry and paved trails for the adventurers out there. The paved trail takes visitors through winding paths past Prisoners Lake, Rotary Grove Memorial and other landmarks. Meanwhile, the backcountry trail ventures through more than 15 miles of secluded tracks through the park's rolling landscape. This trail is a haven for hikers and mountain bikers.
Go fishing: Prisoners Lake is a hidden oasis at Devou Park. The waterway is perfect for relaxing by the water or fishing. The lake is open to everyone from dusk until dawn. Those 16 and older need a fishing license to fish at the lake, and safe fishing habits must be practiced, according to the park's website.
While hiking trails are free to explore, please visit exploredevoupark.org for prices of other outdoor activities.
Visitors are more than welcome to bring a furry friend along for the fun, as most hiking trails are pet-friendly. AllTrails curated a list of the most popular dog-on-leash trails in Devou Park.
Devou Park does not have lodging facilities within the park itself. However, there are several lodging options nearby, including hotels in Covington, Kentucky, and Cincinnati. There are also Devou Park cottage listings on Airbnb.
The park is ADA accessible. It's equipped with a wheelchair-accessible entrance and parking lot, making it suitable for individuals with disabilities.
Visit exploredevoupark.org for more information, or call 859-292-2160.
Ohio's Amish country, centered in Millersburg in Holmes County, is home to one of the world's largest Amish populations.
It's common to see Amish buggies traveling on the roads or stopped at businesses.
"Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in a rich culture, hop on a tour, enjoy a little comfort food or find your bliss away from the everyday, you'll find what you are looking for here in Ohio's Amish Country," the Visit Amish Country website read.
Around 37,000 Amish people make up Ohio's Amish country, which covers the agriculturally rich Holmes County and the surrounding area. (Geauga County in northeast Ohio also has a healthy Amish population.)
The way of life may be unfamiliar to many, as the Amish believe in life before the implementation of many forms of modern technology.
"Amish Country has the added mystery of being home to a faith-guided group that seeks separation from external influence," according to the website. "Popular culture and media represent these folks as yokels trapped in time, but you won't hear any 'thees' and 'thous' here."
Learn about history: The Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center provides a history lesson about the Amish and Mennonite populations.
See a show: The Ohio Star Theater, located in Sugarcreek, Ohio, offers entertainment for the whole family. Offerings include live musicals, concerts and comedy acts.
Eat award-winning cheese: The region is home to many cheesemakers, including Guggisberg, which is known for its award-winning Swiss.
Take a tour: The area offers many tours to explore the countryside, some of which are available on horseback or in a buggy.
Visit a museum: The Millersburg Glass Museum has more than 200 glass pieces in its collection. The museum houses the largest public display of carnival and crystal glass, produced from 1909 to 1912.
It's free to drive through the countryside and soak in the picturesque landscape.
There are many lodging opportunities ranging from bed and breakfasts and hotels to RV parks and campgrounds.
For more details on Ohio's Amish country, contact the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau at 330-674-3975.
Tucked away just minutes from the charming and artsy village of Yellow Springs, Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve offers natural rock formations and trails that make you feel like you're stepping out of Ohio and into another world.
With well-maintained trails and interesting features resulting from a retreating glacier thousands of years ago — all hidden next to the Yellow Springs community and John Bryan State Park — Clifton Gorge has something for everyone.
The dolomite and limestone gorge is free to visitors and open from a half hour before sunrise to a half hour after sunset.
Hike over 3 miles of trails: A Rim Trail is suitable for all ability levels, boasting views of the gorge from above, and the Gorge Trail is a steeper journey that takes hikers along the river and through the heart of the rock formations. The gorge is also connected to John Bryan State Park, allowing hikers to easily extend their exploration even further
: With protected plants popping up next to the trails, Clifton Gorge is a statewide destination for viewing spring wildflowers.
Visit Yellow Springs: Located at 2381 OH-343 in Yellow Springs, the preserve is a short drive away from the quirky town, where visitors can stop for ice cream, stroll through boutiques or replenish with a meal before or after a hike through the gorge.
Visitors can also check out the Historic Clifton Mill, which is illuminated with over 4 million lights during the holiday season.
Through Clifton Gorge, cellular service can be spotty in certain areas, and trail areas near the Little Miami River sometimes experience flooding after heavy rains.
Also, be sure to leave furry friends at home. State nature preserves like Clifton Gorge protect rare and delicate natural resources, and, for this reason, pets are not permitted.
For more information, visit ohiodnr.gov, or call 614-265-6453
Mount Pleasant is located in Rising Park, which Lancaster Parks & Recreation manages. It overlooks the city, allowing visitors to see sights such as the Fairfield County Fairgrounds and miles of the surrounding area.
The black hand sandstone rises nearly 300 feet up, and a trail can be hiked up to reach the top. It has become a place to visit for locals and visitors alike.
Recreational activities: Rising Park offers recreational options such as a catch-and-release fishing pond and a playground.
Take a hike: For some, going up Mount Pleasant is a goal, such as a recent 90-year-old who trekked up for Mother's Day or a man who biked to the top 100 times.
Spend the day in the park: With picnic tables, tennis courts and a softball field, anyone can enjoy a day outside. There are also shelter houses that can be rented at the park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or 3:30 p.m. to sunset.
The park is open all year, from dawn to dusk. Throughout the year, visitors can celebrate holidays and seasons within the park, such as the Robert K. Fox Family Y's annual Lancaster Community Sunrise Service on Easter, which had it 96th year in 2025.
In 2018, lights were put up so Mount Pleasant could be illuminated at night during certain parts of the year, as well.
Rising Park is handicap accessible in general, but going up Mount Pleasant is not. The trail is dirt and gravel, so it is not wheelchair accessible.
Once you get to the top, there is safety railing for visitors, and you can enjoy the park being free and pet-friendly, as long as a leash is used.
While no lodging is in the park, there are a variety of options in the city of Lancaster.
For more information, visit the Lancaster Parks & Recreation website, lancasterparks.com, or call 740-687-6651.
The Legends of Music Barn is a treasured view in Holmes County, Ohio, because it depicts music icons and was created by a recently deceased local artist on his own barn.
The Legends of Music Barn is located at the home of Claudia Rozuk and her late partner, Rusty Baker, at 1665 County Road 150 in Millersburg, Ohio.
Go hiking: Take a hike around the barn and admire the works of art, as you would if you were at a museum.
Enjoy the simple sights: Savor the sweet countryside setting of the barn, located about a mile west of the main road, state Route 83.
Marvel at music history: Relive and relish memories of favorite rock 'n' roll experiences as you enjoy the view. If you are lucky, Cole Wengerd, a lifelong friend of artist Baker, might be on the grounds and be able to show you around.
The Legends of Music Barn is on private property, but visitors are welcome to drive by and enjoy the view from the road or pull into the driveway at the barn, so as not to block traffic. However, there isn't very much traffic in the sparsely populated rural community.
Historic downtown Millersburg, Ohio, the county seat of Holmes County, is located about 10 miles north of the barn. It is a quaint town with a variety of shops, antique stores and restaurants, including Millersburg Brewing Company, 60 E. Jackson St., owned by Baker's brother and operated by his niece.
Also, Holmes County is in the heart of Ohio's Amish country, and the eastern part of the county features many tourist attractions and furniture shops.
The visitors' center at the Holmes County Chamber of Commerce, located on the square of Millersburg, provides information on numerous overnight accommodations, including hotels, inns and bed-and-breakfast establishments in the area. For more information, visit holmescountychamber.com, or call 330-674-3975.
USA TODAY-Ohio reporters and editors contributed to this story, including Canton Repository breaking news and trending reporter Janson McNair, Columbus Dispatch reporter Sophia Veneziano, Columbus Dispatch Digital Director Eleanor Kennedy, Cincinnati Enquire trending news reporter Kaycee Sloan, Columbus Dispatch Entertainment and Things-to-Do Editor Emily Rohozen and Akron Beacon Journal reporter Craig Webb
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Summer trips in Ohio: 12 daytrips with stunning views