If you're not afraid of heights, an up-high view is downright inspiring. From cityscapes to secluded forests, here are 12 scenic overlooks in Ohio that are sure to leave you breathless.
1. Ledges Overlook (Cuyahoga Valley National Park)
Ohio's national park features an approximately 1,170 ft. tall peak, which lies southeast of the I-77 and I-80 intersection. You can hike to the Ledges Overlook via a 4.1 mile figure-eight trail in the park.
2. Kalberer Family Emergent Tower (Kirtland)
The Kalberer Family Emergent Tower at Holden Arboretum in Kirtland takes you up 120 ft. above the trees. (Additionally, the nearby Judith and Maynard H. Murch Canopy Walk features a 500 ft. long elevated walkway suspended 65 ft. above the forest floor.)
3. Terminal Tower Observation Deck (Cleveland)
Cleveland is such a beautiful city, and the Terminal Tower Observation Deck allows you to observe the whole city from above. Rising 771 feet above Public Square in Downtown Cleveland, the Terminal Tower is one of the most recognizable buildings in Cleveland's skyline. Much like New York's Empire State Building, this iconic landmark offers beautiful, sweeping views of the city. During the spring and summer months, guests can ride an elevator to the observation deck to behold the view.
4. Mount Jeez (Monroe Township)
Within the Mohican Hills in Monroe Township, you’ll find one of Ohio’s most stunning summits. At 1,310 ft. tall, Mount Jeez offers a wide open, beautiful view of Ohio’s countryside. (You can find the path for Mount Jeez Overlook off of Pleasant Valley Road.)
5. Old Man's Cave Gorge Overlook (Hocking Hills State Park)
If the view from Old Man's Cave itself isn't inspiring enough for you, you can always take the nearby Gorge Overlook Trail for another overlook perspective of the Hocking Hills region.
6. Conkle’s Hollow (Hocking Hills State Park)
This rugged, rocky gorge is often considered one of the deepest in Ohio, according to the state park's website. The Rim Trail at the top of the 200 ft. cliffs features breathtaking views of Conkle’s Hollow.
7. Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial (Put-In-Bay)
Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial is a popular destination on South Bass Island. It commemorates the significant Battle of Lake Erie that took place during the War of 1812. The memorial pays tribute to the brave people who fought during the Battle of Lake Erie, and it also serves as a symbol of peace among the USA, Canada, and Great Britain.
8. Mt. Pleasant at Rising Park (Lancaster)
Also known as "Standing Stone," this breathtaking view from Mt. Pleasant awaits you after a steep hike.
9. Carew Tower Observation Deck (Cincinnati)
The observation deck of Carew Tower in downtown Cincinnati allows you to see the whole city from above. While no longer the tallest building in the Queen City, the views from the top are breathtaking. You can enjoy 360-degree views if you walk around the entire observation deck. You'll tower above the other buildings that will now seem small compared to their street level appearance.
10. Kings Island Amusement Park Eiffel Tower (Mason)
This 1/3 scale replica of the Eiffel Tower enables you to see the entirety of Kings Island from a bird's eye view. It's even more spectacular come Christmastime!
11. Marblehead Lighthouse (Marblehead)
Ohio's oldest lighthouse in continuous operation is a bucket-list must. Take in breathtaking views of Lake Erie and the nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park.
12. Buzzard’s Roost Nature Preserve (Chillicothe)
This 600 ft. overlook of the Paint Creek Valley can be found within the Ross County Park District. Buzzard's Roost is one of the best overlooks in Ohio for fall foliage viewing!
What other scenic overlooks are there in Ohio? Share your experiences (and photos) with us!
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