According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Ohio is the seventh most-populated state in the U.S. Also known as the Buckeye State, it beckons families with museums, science centers, amusement parks, conservation centers and hiking trails, among other attractions. Columbus, Cleveland and Cincinnati are among the main cities in Ohio. These cities offer an array of indoor and outdoor activities families can enjoy.
Many attractions wait for families in Columbus, the capital city of Ohio. Visit the renowned Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, located along the banks of the Scioto River. Open year-round, the zoo houses animals from various parts of the world. Families can spend a day at the new Zoombezi Bay, an amusement park located in the Asia Quest region of the zoo. In addition, scientific minds can explore the famous Center of Science and Industry (COSI). According to its website, Parents Magazine recently named COSI the number one science center in the country. Kids can experience more than 300 interactive exhibits and a unique cinematic moment at the Extreme Screen.
Families can catch a show at the Columbus Children's Theatre or discover the history of Ohio at Ohio Historical Center and Ohio Village. On a sunny day, families can partake in an educational guided tour of the city. Outdoor enthusiasts can visit The Wilds, a wildlife conservation located on nearly 10,000 acres, featuring several natural and indigenous habitats.
From cruises, museums and botanical gardens to aquariums and water resorts, Cincinnati has something for kids of varied interests. The Cincinnati Art Museum offers free admission year-round. Along with enjoying more than 60,000 collections, families can participate in scavenger hunts, art-making activities, workshops and free art demonstrations, offered on selected days. Animal lovers stop at the Cincinnati Zoo and the Botanical Garden, the Newport Aquarium or the petting zoo located at the Creation Museum. Outdoorsy kids participate in the riverboat cruise on the Ohio River or pedal on the Loveland Bike Trail. Entertain kids at CoCo Key Water Resort, Entertrainment Junction (a train-themed activity center) or the Beach Waterpark.
Kids and adults have access to a plethora of museums in Cleveland. Featured names include the Cleveland Museum of Art, the Children's Museum of Cleveland, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, among others. At the Children's Museum of Cleveland, kids learn about water transportation, shopping and farming. In addition, kids learn about nature as they explore hiking and biking trails at Cleveland Metroparks.
Located on Sandusky Bay is the city of Sandusky, which boasts miles of shoreline, historical architecture and the historical Cedar Point Amusement Park. Described as "the second oldest amusement park in North America" on its website, the park welcomes guests with thrill, water and kids' rides. In Sandusky, families have the opportunity to stay at Kalahari, a unique African-themed resort with an indoor and an outdoor waterpark and a safari outdoor park. The resort features a wave pool, indoor surfing and family raft rides. Older kids can indulge in adventure climbing walls and rope courses.
