There's even more to do in Ohio than we thought. One summer bucket list just isn't enough to cover all the things we think you should discover this summer. Here are nine more activities we think you should add to your Ohio bucket list:
1. Watch a movie under the stars.
Skyview Drive-In in Lancaster is just one of Ohio's several great drive-in movie theaters that will give you a special sort of movie night you won't forget. (Skyview is located at 2420 E. Main St., Lancaster, OH 43130.)
2. Take a walk among the trees.
Not many people are aware that Ohio is home to an incredible canopy walk. It’s a breathtakingly beautiful experience—unless you’re absolutely terrified of heights, that is. The Judith and Maynard H. Murch Canopy Walk at Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, Ohio features a 500 ft. long elevated walkway suspended 65 ft. above the forest floor. (And as an added bonus, there’s an observation tower on site that takes you up even further up—so much further that you end up above the trees.)
3. Eat at the Buckeye Express Diner.
You don't necessarily have to board an operating train for a locomotive themed dining experience. If you take exit 165 off of Interstate 71, you'll find this iconic not-your-average diner. (Note: Michigan fans must park across the street.) Buckeye Express Diner is located at 810 State Rt. 97 W., Bellville, OH 44813.
4. Explore the ghost town of Moonville.
The abandoned coal mining town of Moonville in southeastern Ohio near McArthur (Vinton County) was founded in 1856, when the Marietta and Cincinnati railroad ran through the area's woods. One structure of the town that remains today is the Moonville Tunnel; a haunted tunnel where legend has it the ghost of a man who was killed instantly by a train passing through the tunnel wanders along the track bed near the old tunnel at night.
5. Go glamping.
All throughout Ohio there are unique camping experiences you can have in conjunction with some of the comforts of home. From impressive yurts to unbelievable tree houses, there’s something for everyone who wants a getaway close to nature—but not too close. If a renting a cabin or pitching a tent isn’t your preference for a nature getaway, then try glamping. (Pictured is a canvas cabin at Clay's Park Resort in Lawrence.)
6. Discover the earthworks of Ohio.
In case you hadn't already noticed, mounds abound in Ohio. Learn about ancient Ohio and the cultures that came before us while you enjoy a sunny day. (Pictured is the Great Serpent Mound in Adams County.)
7. Board the Cincinnati Dinner Train.
All dinners served on this train include a side of scenery aboard three beautifully restored 1950s era dining cars. The public dinner train operates every Saturday throughout the year and features a three-hour train ride and a four-course meal. The train also features two private luxury dining cars and special events throughout the year. For tickets, departure times and other information click here.
8. Explore the state's rarest ecosystem.
Close to Toledo you'll find what's considered to be Ohio's rarest ecosystem (and one of the world's rarest ecosystems) where rare plants and animals, oak forests, sand dunes, savannas, tall-grass prairies and swamp forests all thrive in harmony. The Oak Openings Preserve Metropark is operated by Metroparks of the Toledo Area.
9. Discover Cleveland’s abandoned subway.
The Detroit-Superior Bridge, (also known as the Veterans Memorial Bridge), is a 3,112 ft. long arch bridge over the Cuyahoga River, linking Detroit Avenue and Superior Avenue. When cars pass over this bridge, they’re also passing over a lower streetcar level that hasn’t been in operation since 1954. Today, the streetcar level remains vacant and closed off. However, a few times a year the Cuyahoga County Engineer’s Office opens the system to the public—allowing urban explorers to venture through the lonely (and slightly eerie) tunnels.
What else would you add to an Ohio summer bucket list?
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!