Looking for a fun way to seize the day without going broke? Thankfully, there are several unique, adventurous, and enlightening ways to do so in beautiful Ohio. Here are our picks for 12 of the best cheap fun things to do in Ohio.

1) Catch a classic film at the Ohio Theatre in downtown Columbus.

The annual CAPA Summer Movie Series usually kicks off around September, and it features classic films for just $6.00 a ticket. Check out the official CAPA website for the most up-to-date events and showtimes.

2) Visit the U.S. Air Force Museum in Dayton.

Learn about the history of our nation’s development in aviation at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, where admission is FREE.

3) Escape to your favorite lake.

Ohio is FULL of beautiful, tranquil lakes that will give you the serenity you seek or the fun in the sun you're longing for. Swim, kayak, canoe, fish, or sit back and enjoy the scenery at your favorite lake destination. Let's face it. A day at Lake Erie is the closest you can get to a day at the beach here in Ohio, but there are some truly amazing lakes in Ohio that try to make up for it (and do pretty well).

4) Check out the Contemporary Arts Center in Cincinnati.

With ever-changing exhibits, the CAC offers viewers a fresh and unique art experience for free, with limited registration per day. Make sure to check out the official website to reserve your space.

5) Discover the Chateau Laroche in Loveland.

Explore this historic medieval-style structure (more commonly known as the Loveland Castle) and its beautiful gardens in Loveland for just $5.00. Built brick-by-brick by one man alone, this gem along the banks of the little Miami River will surely charm you. Make sure to check out the official Chateau Laroche website for the most up-to-date hours and programs!

6) Tour the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus.

Free, guided tours, as well as self-guided tours of the Statehouse are offered Monday through Friday on the hour from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays from noon until 3 p.m. When it comes to cheap things to do in Ohio, you really can't beat free.

7) Take a hike. Literally.

Ohio is FULL of breathtakingly beautiful state parks and forests to explore at no cost. Discover waterfalls, caves, gorges, wildlife, and more. Turns out, the hiking trails in Ohio are pretty amazing! Pictured: Old Man's Cave at Hocking Hills State Park.

8) Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Viewing fine art is free of charge at the Cleveland Museum of Art. It's currently open from Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets are limited per day, so make sure to check out the official Cleveland Museum of Art website for the most up-to-date information.

9) Explore the shores of Lake Erie and Marblehead Lighthouse.

Picnic at Marblehead Lighthouse and visit the lighthouse’s museum in the Keeper’s House. Please make sure to check out the website for important information about closures, seasonal hours, and more! This is a trip worth taking, just make sure it's open first.

10) Walk the Scioto Mile in Columbus.

This beloved riverfront park features miles of recreational trails, a cultural arts center, water fountains, local food vendors, and even complimentary Wi-Fi. There is no cost. This riverfront destination in Ohio is a local favorite - come see why!

11) Tour/explore our college campuses and universities.

Ohio is home to multiple BEAUTIFUL college campuses that could bring out the learner in anyone! Pictured: Ohio University, Athens.

12) Check out "The Money Museum."

Ironically (and appropriately) enough, the Federal Reserve Bank Museum of Money in Cleveland is free to attendees and features a 23-foot-tall money tree. Currently, they're offering virtual tours online. Make sure to check out the official website for the most recent schedules, hours, and closures.

Interested in ideas for your next day trip in OH? Check out some of the most amazing day trips in Ohio for inspiration!

What other cool, inexpensive things to do in Ohio for $10 or less? How do you seize the day when you're low on cash? Let us know!