Okay besties, can we talk about how Ohio is literally having a moment right now? Like, I know we’ve all been sleeping on the Midwest, but this summer I’m here to convince you that Ohio deserves a permanent spot on your travel vision board.
I’ve been living my best life exploring every corner of this state, and honestly? The vibes are immaculate. From adrenaline-pumping theme parks to those dreamy nature spots that make your Instagram feed look effortlessly aesthetic, Ohio is serving looks and I’m absolutely here for it.
So pour yourself an iced coffee, put on your cutest summer ‘fit, and let me spill the tea on five Ohio destinations that are about to become your new obsessions.
🎢 Cedar Point – Sandusky, OH
Main character energy at the Roller Coaster Capital of the World
Listen, I don’t care if you’re scared of heights – Cedar Point will have you questioning everything you thought you knew about yourself. This place is pure chaos in the best possible way, with rides that’ll have you screaming lyrics to Taylor Swift just to cope with the adrenaline.
Steel Vengeance is absolutely unhinged (in a good way), and Millennium Force will literally change your perspective on life. But here’s the plot twist nobody talks about: Cedar Point sits right on Lake Erie, so you can go from screaming on roller coasters to having your toes in actual sand. The beach vibes hit different when you’re coming down from a coaster high, trust me.
Hot tip from someone who learned the hard way: Get that Fast Lane pass. Yes, it’s pricey, but your time is valuable and waiting in line for two hours isn’t the vibe. Also, bring a portable charger because you’re going to want to document EVERYTHING.
🌿 Hocking Hills State Park – Logan, OH
For the girls who want to touch grass (literally)
If your For You Page has been serving you “that girl” hiking content and you’re ready to be her, Hocking Hills is calling your name. This place is what cottagecore dreams are made of – waterfalls that sound like white noise machines, caves that feel mystical, and hiking trails that’ll make you feel like you’re in a Studio Ghibli film.
Old Man’s Cave is the main character of the park, but honestly every trail here is giving main character energy. And can we please talk about the glamping options? There are literally treehouses you can rent that’ll make your friends back home question all their life choices.
Pack your Stanley cup, wear your cutest athleisure, and prepare for the most aesthetically pleasing workout of your life. Your mental health will thank you, and your camera roll will be chef’s kiss.
🎭 Ohio Theatre Summer Movie Series – Columbus, OH
Vintage glamour meets summer sophistication
Okay, this one’s for my girls who appreciate the finer things but still want that summer fun energy. The Ohio Theatre is giving 1920s elegance – we’re talking ornate ceilings, vintage charm, and an atmosphere that makes you feel like you should be wearing pearls and red lipstick.
Every summer they show classic films that actually matter. Think Casablanca, Roman Holiday, Vertigo – the movies that made cinema what it is today. It’s giving film school girl aesthetic without the student loans.
Columbus’s downtown scene is also incredibly underrated. After the movie, you can hit up rooftop bars that overlook the city skyline, or explore the Short North Arts District for some late-night vintage shopping. It’s giving sophisticated summer night out, and I’m obsessed.
🍷 Geneva-on-the-Lake – Geneva, OH
Coastal grandmother meets wine mom energy
This little lakeside town is what happens when Stars Hollow meets Napa Valley, and honestly, it’s everything. Geneva-on-the-Lake has mastered the art of being charming without trying too hard – quaint wineries, lakeside restaurants, and that old-school Americana vibe that makes you want to slow down and actually enjoy the moment.
The wineries here are absolutely sending me. Ferrante Winery has views that’ll make you understand why people move to wine country, and the local restaurants serve comfort food that tastes like a warm hug. Plus, the sunset views over Lake Erie are the kind that make you put your phone down and just exist in the moment.
It’s the perfect destination for a girls’ weekend where you want to feel fancy but also relaxed. Think linen dresses, natural makeup, and conversations that go deep because you’re not rushing anywhere.
🛒 West Side Market – Cleveland, OH
Farmer’s market girlie paradise
Can we normalize making farmer’s markets a whole personality trait? Because West Side Market in Cleveland is the kind of place that’ll have you planning your entire Saturday around it. This isn’t just any market – it’s housed in this gorgeous historic building that’s been serving looks since 1912.
The vendors here are incredible. Fresh pierogis that’ll ruin all other pierogis for you, flowers that look like they belong in a $200 bouquet, and artisanal everything that’ll make your kitchen feel like a Pinterest board come to life.
Make a whole day of it: start at the market, walk to Lake Erie for some waterfront vibes, then explore Ohio City’s vintage shops and cozy cafes. It’s giving slow living, it’s giving supporting local businesses, it’s giving Saturday well spent.
The Real Tea ☕
Ohio in the summer hits different, and I’m not just saying that because I have Midwest bias. There’s something about this state that feels authentic – like it’s not trying to be anything other than exactly what it is, and that energy is so refreshing.
Whether you’re planning the ultimate girls’ trip, looking for solo travel inspiration, or trying to convince your partner that road trips can be romantic, Ohio has the range. Pack your best summer wardrobe, download a good podcast for the drive, and prepare to fall in love with a state that’s been keeping secrets.
Your summer self will thank you, your Instagram will thank you, and honestly, your bank account will thank you too because Ohio knows how to deliver amazing experiences without the coastal price tags.
Now stop scrolling and start planning – these Ohio adventures aren’t going to have themselves! ✨
xoxo,
Your favorite Midwest maximalist 💕
tags: #OhioAdventures, #MidwestSummer, #CedarPoint, #HockingHills, #LakeErieVibes, #ColumbusOhio, #WestSideMarket, #GenevaOnTheLake, #ExploreOhio, #RoadTripReady, #SummerBucketList, #GirlsWhoTravel, #MillennialExplorer, #NatureAndNostalgia, #WanderOhio
