Open Travel Guide
Day trips from Ohio

Best Day Trips from Ohio 2026

Ohio's best escapes by distance: what's reachable before breakfast and back by dinner.

By Updated Reviewed by Daniel Mercer

Ohio has 7+ day trips covered in this guide, led by Hocking Hills State Park from Columbus, Cedar Point from Cleveland and Put-in-Bay (South Bass Island) from Port Clinton. Each entry below includes the practical details — what it costs, when to go, and how to plan around it.

Ohio is a Midwestern state at the heart of American culture, birthplace of eight U.S. presidents, and home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Pro Football Hall of Fame, and Cedar Point — the 'Roller Coaster Capital of the World.' From Cleveland's revitalized lakefront to Columbus's thriving Short North arts district, Cincinnati's unique chili culture, and the breathtaking caves and waterfalls of Hocking Hills, Ohio offers remarkable variety for every traveler.

Top day trips

Handpicked excursions within easy reach.

50 miles (80 km) southeast of Columbus

Hocking Hills State Park from Columbus

Car only; no public transit. Drive US-33 south from Columbus to OH-664
60 miles (97 km) west of Cleveland

Cedar Point from Cleveland

Car via OH-2 W to Cedar Point Causeway. No direct public transit.
Port Clinton is 80 miles (129 km) west of Cleveland; 115 miles (185 km) north of Columbus

Put-in-Bay (South Bass Island) from Port Clinton

Drive to Miller Ferry at Catawba Island: 5390 E Sand Rd, Port Clinton. Ferry: $15 adult round trip, $15 per vehicle. Call (419) 285-2421. Or take Jet Express from Port Clinton: (800) 245-1538, $22 adult.
90 miles (145 km) northeast of Columbus

Amish Country (Holmes County) from Columbus

Car only; no public transit in rural Holmes County
15 miles (24 km) south of Cleveland

Cuyahoga Valley National Park from Cleveland

Car or Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (CVSR). CVSR from Rockside Road Station: seasonal; $26–42 round trip. Book at cvsr.org or call (800) 468-4070.
130 miles (209 km) east of Cleveland

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania from Cleveland

Car via I-76 E (PA Turnpike — $8–12 toll) or Amtrak Capitol Limited (daily; departs Cleveland 12:37am, arrives Pittsburgh 5:55am — impractical for day trips; check amtrak.com for seasonal changes). Greyhound from Cleveland to Pittsburgh: $20–35, 3 hours.
70 miles (113 km) west of Columbus

Yellow Springs & Clifton Gorge from Columbus

Car only; no public transit from Columbus

Day trip tips

Make the most of your excursions.

Tip

Start early — most popular day-trip destinations get crowded by mid-morning.

Tip

Check return transport times before you leave — missing the last train or bus can be costly.

Tip

Carry water, snacks, and layers — weather and food options can be limited at smaller destinations.

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