4 Exciting Places in Ohio Everyone Will Be Talking About in 2026

There is so much in store for Ohio in 2026.  From historic milestones to cultural events, the Buckeye State is packed with places to explore all year long. Whether you prefer historic train rides through small towns or big city excitement, here are the most exciting places to visit next year in Ohio.

1. Dennison

In celebration of America’s 250th anniversary in 2026, Ohio will highlight its role in the country’s transportation history. As part of the celebration, the 250 Buckeye Train will take passengers on a journey across Ohio on a historic train on April 25 and 26. Passengers will depart from Columbus and travel by rail along the historic Panhandle Line of the Pennsylvania Railroad while enjoying storytelling, history, and live music. The journey ends in Dennison, where the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum will host the free Transportation Celebration featuring a vintage car show, WWII reenactments, and an aerial showcase of vintage planes.

2. Cleveland

Many of Cleveland’s major attractions have a lot to celebrate in 2026. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame will debut its $175 million expansion featuring new galleries, a performance venue, outdoor public gateways, and a community park. At the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, an immersive new habitat called Primate Fest will feature orangutans and other primate species. Expect special programming at the Cleveland Museum of Art to mark its 110th anniversary. 

Progressive Field, home of the Cleveland Guardians, wraps up its $200 million renovation, adding upgraded seating, concourses, and concessions. Explore entertainment areas along the Cuyahoga River, recently designated a National Water Trail, with the new Cleveland Water Taxi. At the historic West Side Market, visitors can enjoy an upgraded mezzanine space and new outdoor dining areas.

3. Cincinnati

Cincinnati will shine in 2026 with the return of its biennial art and light festival BLINK in October. The free festival projects art on the city’s historic architecture over 30 blocks. This summer, the Cincinnati Opera kicks off its Black Opera Project with an Afrofuturistic piece called Lalovavi.

Cincy festivals are celebrating milestones in 2026, including the 50th anniversary of Oktoberfest Zinzinnati. After you mark the 25th anniversary of Goettafest, honoring the regional German breakfast sausage, you can burn it off along with thousands of watercraft at the 25th anniversary of Paddlefest on the Ohio River, recently named an official national waterway.

4. Columbus

Ohio’s capital city will have a new way to welcome you in 2026 with the new Columbus Welcome Center opening in the Short North Arts District this spring. While you’re in the neighborhood, stop by the North Market, which is celebrating its 150th anniversary next year with special events. Fashionistas should not miss the opening of The Loom downtown, a fashion incubator and cultural hub. This summer, the Ohio State Fair—one of the best things to do in Ohio during summer—gets a $460 million upgrade with three renovated buildings and a new Ohio Agriculture Center and Ohio Showcase Building.

With new attractions, cultural events, and festivals galore, 2026 is the perfect time to plan a trip through Ohio. Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.