
The Best Day Trips From Columbus, Ohio
Brought to you by Katie from Zen Life and Travel
Columbus, Ohio, is a great place to live, but sometimes you just want to get out and explore. That’s great because there’s lots to do in Ohio. These are the best day trips from Columbus, Ohio — for both adults and families traveling with kids. Even better, these day trip ideas are within a 2-hour drive of Columbus.
Day trips can make a quick daycation (a day of vacation, get it?!) or an easy overnight trip. So, hop in the car and get ready to explore Ohio!
1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is located between Cleveland and Akron along the Cuyahoga River. It’s one of the nation’s 61 National Parks and the only National Park in Ohio. Inside the park, you’ll find forests, hills, hiking trails, and waterfalls. Highlights include Beaver Marsh, Brandywine Falls, The Ledges, Blue Hen Falls, and The Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail.
Location: 15610 Vaughn Road, Brecksville, Ohio 44141
Contact: 440-717-3890 | Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Approximate Drive Time From Columbus: 1 hour 55 minutes
2. The Wilds
The Wilds, located in Cumberland, is one of the most unique places you’ll find in Ohio. Without leaving the midwest, you can experience an open-air safari tour at this 9,000+ acre non-profit wildlife park and conservation center (which is a partner of the Columbus Zoo). You’ll get to see some incredible animals, including zebras, rhinos, antelopes, giraffes, cheetahs, and more.
Location: 14000 International Road, Cumberland, Ohio 43732
Contact: 740-638-5030 | The Wilds
Approximate Drive Time From Columbus: 1 hour 35 minutes
3. Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park in Logan is a gorgeous area for enjoying the outdoors and one of the most popular day trips from Columbus, Ohio. You’ll find plenty of hiking, mountain biking, and camping. If you want to make this an overnight trip, there are lots of great cabins to choose from. I enjoyed the private cabins at the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls and Cherry Ridge Retreat for a romantic getaway.
- Location: 13178 Route 664, Logan, Ohio 43138
- Contact: 1-800-HOCKING | Hocking Hills
- Approximate Drive Time From Downtown Columbus: 1 hour 10 minutes
4. Mad River Mountain
Mad River Mountain is Ohio’s largest ski and snowboard resort. Located in Zanesfield, it’s a great spot to learn to ski for the first time or to hone your skills close to home. As part of Vail Resorts, you can even use your Epic Pass here.
Location: 1000 Snow Valley Rd, Zanesfield, Ohio 43360
Contact: (800) 231-7669 | Mad River Mountain
Approximate Drive Time From Downtown Columbus: 50 minutes
5. Ohio Caverns
Ohio Caverns has crystal stalactites, stalagmites, and other amazing formations. The caverns are the largest in the state and are recognized as “America’s Most Colorful Caverns.”
You can take a guided tour that lasts about 1 hour, and don’t forget to bring a jacket — the caverns remain at a constant 54 degrees throughout the year.
Location: 2210 East State Route 245, West Liberty, Ohio 43357
Contact: 937-465-4017 | Ohio Caverns
Approximate Drive Time From Columbus: 1 hour
Stay Tuned for the NEXT Five locations later this month!