From nature adventures to playgrounds, splash zones, and more, we’ve rounded up 10 fun outdoor activities across the state that are perfect for kids of all ages.
Whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon outing or a full-day experience, there’s something here for everyone.
Ohio’s metro park systems are some of the best in the country, offering miles of trails, picnic spots, creeks to wade in, and wildlife to spot.
Favorites include:
Highbanks Metro Park (Columbus)
Mill Creek Park (Youngstown)
Cuyahoga Valley National Park (between Cleveland and Akron)
🧺 Pack a picnic and enjoy the shade!
Splash pads are a hit with toddlers and younger kids, and many are completely free!
Try these:
Veterans Memorial Park Splash Pad (Mentor)
North Bank Park Splash Pad (Columbus)
Washington Park (Cincinnati)
💡 Don’t forget sunscreen and towels!
Summer in Ohio means food trucks, live music, and kid-friendly events almost every weekend.
Check your city’s calendar for events like:
Strawberry festivals
County fairs
Arts & crafts fairs
🗓️ Our Events section is coming soon—stay tuned!
Ohio is full of beginner-friendly hiking trails with just the right level of adventure.
Try:
Ash Cave (Hocking Hills)
Blue Hen Falls Trail (Cuyahoga Valley)
Battelle Darby Creek (near Columbus)
🌲 Look for shaded trails for cooler walks in July and August.
Get up close to goats, alpacas, donkeys, and more! Many farms allow hands-on experiences and even offer pony rides.
Great picks:
The Farm at Walnut Creek (Sugarcreek)
Young’s Jersey Dairy (Yellow Springs)
Barn-n-Bunk Farm Market (Trenton)
🐐 Some also sell local treats and ice cream!
For older kids (and adventurous parents), check out ropes courses, ziplines, or treetop adventures.
Options include:
ZipZone Outdoor Adventures (Columbus)
Go Ape! Treetop Adventure (Cleveland area)
Hocking Hills Canopy Tours
🎟️ Many offer junior courses for ages 5+.
Kayaking or canoeing is a calm, fun way to spend a warm afternoon and see Ohio’s natural beauty.
Family-friendly routes:
Little Miami River (near Cincinnati)
Mohican River (Central Ohio)
Scioto River Paddle Loop (Columbus)
🦺 Many outfitters offer life jackets for kids and rentals by the hour.
A classic summer activity—great for ages 3 and up.
Top spots:
Scene75 Entertainment Center (Dayton)
Magic Castle (Dayton)
Adventure Golf at Rempel’s Grove (Logan)
⛳ Look for combo passes with go-karts or arcade time!
Yes, we have beaches! From Lake Erie to smaller lake parks, you’ll find soft sand and splash-friendly shores.
Top beaches:
Geneva State Park (Lake Erie)
East Harbor State Park (Marblehead)
Alum Creek Beach (Delaware)
🏄 Bring sand toys and check for lifeguard hours.v
Take a break from the car and enjoy a ride through Ohio’s countryside or historical routes.
Top picks:
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
🚂 Some offer themed rides like ice cream trains or storybook adventures.
Always check hours and pricing before you go.
Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and hats.
Follow us for more Ohio fun each week!