Do you have a favorite lake in Ohio? How about a favorite camping spot? Natural Springs Resort in New Paris, Ohio is a lesser-known gem that features a beautiful, spring-fed lake. It’s the picture perfect place to take a dip on a sunny day or camp for the weekend. If you enjoy spending some time outdoors in the warmer months, it's a great place to check out.
Welcome to Natural Springs Resort! What was once Stone Quarry is now a family fun destination in southwest Ohio.
The lake is surrounded by beautiful rock formations that are remnants of the resort's quarry days. It's fun to explore on a watercraft rental, which are just $7.50/30 minutes.
While you can just swim or get out on the lake for the day, camping here makes your visit that much more special.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Ohio is a lovely place to visit with so many beautiful natural areas, delicious food, mild weather, and even some beaches on the shores of the Great Lakes. Whether you are on vacation and need a home base from which to explore the state or on a business trip and want to relax in comfort, these 12 accommodations are the best hotels in Ohio and will make for the perfect getaway.
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Best Unique Hotels To Stay In Ohio
While it’s always nice to stay at a popular hotel like a Hilton, Marriott, or Hyatt, sometimes you want something different and unique to make your trip more memorable. If you’re looking for something quaint, novel, or intriguing, the guest rooms at these stays will be something worth talking about when you return home.
Hotel Indigo is an eclectic 4-star hotel with a funky mix of modern and rustic interior design. It’s a great place to rest after exploring the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Downtown Cleveland and it’s walking distance from the Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage and the David Berger National Memorial. The luxury amenities with mid-range pricing make this a real gem. There is ample parking and it’s refreshingly quiet. Accessible rooms are available.
Address: 3581 Park East Dr, Beachwood, OH 44122-4301
Price: From $166/night
Amenities: Free Parking, Free Wi-fi, Bar/Lounge, Pet Friendly, Air Conditioning, Bicycle Rental, Children's Activities, Safe, Fitness Center, Room Service, Flatscreen TV
If you’re looking to explore one of the Amish areas in Ohio, The White Oak Inn is the perfect place to stay. There are guest rooms in a huge main house as well as separate cabins. A full country complimentary breakfast is provided in the morning, and fresh, local ingredients are used with gluten-free, vegetarian, and other diets accommodated in the on-site restaurant. There are nearby wine tastings and you’ll be surrounded by lush, natural beauty.
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Address: 29683 Walhonding Rd, Danville Knox County, OH 43014-9681
Price: From $159/night
Amenities: Free Parking, Free Wi-fi, Free Breakfast, Restaurant, Pet Friendly, Air Conditioning, Iron, Fireplace, Hair Dryer, Flatscreen TV
The Gaslight Bed & Breakfast in Cincinnati simply oozes charm and elegance with a touch of oddness. Each room is a unique treasure and the hotel features intriguing art and decorations while the comfort is second to none. The house was built in 1909 and the grounds have little waterfalls and tall willow trees making it like a fairy tale. Hardwood floors and stained glass windows add to the beauty of this place. It’s a lovely, secluded place that is just minutes from metropolitan downtown Cincinnati.
Amenities: Free Parking, Free Wi-fi, Free Breakfast, Fitness Center, Air Conditioning
Rating: 5.0 stars
Best Hotel Pools In Ohio
Ohio’s summers aren’t blazingly hot like many states, but there’s enough humidity that you’ll want to take a dip in a swimming pool to beat the heat. Sure, you could take a dip at the beach on the shores of Lake Erie, however, sometimes you just need a few minutes and a hotel with a magnificent outdoor pool will do the trick. Here are two of the best hotel pools in Ohio.
Boasting a sizable outdoor pool, a shallow indoor pool, a pond with canoes and a fountain, and steps that lead directly into Lake Erie, the Maumee Bay Lodge has swimming, paddling, and floating options for all ages. Of course, there’s a hot tub and jacuzzi available as well. One would be hard-pressed to find anything with as many aquatic options as this place!
Address: 1750 State Park Rd, Oregon, OH 43616-5800
Price: From $103/night
Amenities: Free Parking, Pool, Free Wi-fi, Fitness Center, Air Conditioning, Beach, Bicycle Rental, Bar/Lounge, Books/DVDs, Private Balcony, Iron, Refrigerator, Room Service
The Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center is nestled in the bucolic woods next to the lake in https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/ohio/largest-state-park-oh/Salt Fork State Park and has both indoor and outdoor pools. It’s a perfect getaway for hiking, biking, golfing, fishing, boating, and much more. Your family will love taking a dip in either of the terrific pools and setting out from the marina to see what they can catch. This is a great place to put away the screens and enjoy nature.
Address: 14755 Cadiz Road, Cambridge, OH 43725
Price: From $135/night
Amenities: Free Parking, Pool, Bar/Lounge, Free Wi-fi, Fitness Center, Game Room, Golf Course, Air Conditioning, Children's Activities, Lake Views, Private Balcony, Refrigerator, Flatscreen TV
Rating: 4.0 stars
Best Luxury Hotels in Ohio
When you want to enjoy Ohio in style and have the very best of luxury and comfort, there are many options to choose from. Pamper yourself and experience living in the lap of luxury in a spacious suite and enjoy sheer comfort as you have the best rest of your life at these fantastic luxury hotels in Ohio.
You won’t easily forget your stay at the Belamere Suites with private pools heated to 94 degrees, walk-in showers for two, vaulted ceilings, inviting fireplaces, and so much more. The beds are extra-long and nothing beats having your own personal pool that will be as calm and quiet as you please. The spacious rooms have gorgeous detail and every comfort is provided. You’ll know right at check-in that you’re in for a treat. It’s considered one of the most romantic hotels in America!
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Address: 12200 Williams Rd, Perrysburg, OH 43551-6803
Price: From $369/night
Amenities: Free Parking, Pool, Sauna, Free Wi-fi, Free Breakfast, Couples Massage, Concierge, Soundproof Rooms, Bathrobes, Fireplace, Walk-In Shower, Luxury Suites, Air Conditioning, Private Balcony, Refrigerator, Flatscreen TV
The Ritz-Carlton has made a name for itself as a premiere luxury accommodation with several locations all over the eastern United States. Situated in the heart of downtown Cleveland, your beautifully detailed suite offers panoramic views and you’ll find fine cuisine in the dining room at the TURN Bar + Kitchen. Enjoy fine linens, a fitness center with Peloton equipment, a club lounge with a dedicated concierge, and all the comfort and luxury you could ask for.
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Address: 1515 W 3rd St, Cleveland, OH 44113-1403
Price: From $594/night
Amenities: Electric Vehicle Charging Station, Wifi, Bar/Lounge, Boardgames/Puzzles, Pet Friendly, Car Hire, Business Center, Soundproof Rooms, Air Conditioning, Coffee Maker, Sofa Bed, Desk, Bathrobes, Cable TV, City View, Bridal Suite
Nestled near the Scioto River in downtown Columbus is the gorgeous Hotel LeVeque. Modern, luxurious comfort awaits you here with smart technology, opulent decor, spacious suites, and a French brasserie and bar with delectable cuisine. You’re a very short distance from several quality restaurants and the brewery district where many of the state’s best beers can be found. Explore German Village, Topiary Park, and many other charming areas in this vibrant and charming city.
Address: 50 West Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43215
Price: From $278/night
Amenities: Free Wi-fi, Bar/Lounge, Pet Friendly, Fitness Center, Kids Stay Free, Car Hire, Soundproof Rooms, Air Conditioning, Coffee Maker, Bathrobes, Desk, Cable TV, Walk-in Shower
Rating: 4.5 stars
Best Boutique Hotels in Ohio
There are times that you want some swank and style in your accommodations and prefer something less standard with a touch of cool. It’s a good feeling when you have interesting surroundings and a sense of the eclectic rather than a muted corporate feel. We’ve got you covered with two boutique hotels in Ohio that won’t leave you bored.
It’s hip, it’s artsy, it’s stylish, it’s cool. At 21c Museum Hotel, art is everywhere, the food is as creative as the decor, and it’s in a historic landmark building that was once the Metropole Hotel. There are art galleries throughout and the culinary options are works of art themselves, with ingredients from regional, sustainable sources. This downtown Cincinnati location is within walking distance of a vast array of top-notch restaurants and it’s across the street from the Aronoff Center for the Arts.
Address: 609 Walnut St, Cincinnati, OH 45202-2527
Price: From $189/night
Amenities: Valet Parking, Free Wi-fi, Bar/Lounge, Pet Friendly, Fitness Center, Bicycles available, Business Center, Conference Facilities, Allergy-free rooms, Air Conditioning, Dining Area, Flatscreen TV, Blackout Curtains, Desk, Minibar, Walk-in Shower, City View
Blending together old-fashioned charm with modern class, The Anchor Inn is a comfortable yet hip place to stay just a short walk from Put-In Bay’s boardwalk. It’s an intimate place with 9 guest rooms and a cottage and the staff is fun and friendly. There’s nothing stuffy about this place, yet it remains quiet and secure with quality linens, plush towels with towel warmers, soft beds, robes and slippers, and comforting breakfasts. If it weren’t for the bay, you might not want to leave the inn.
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Address: 500 Catawba Ave, Put in Bay, OH 43456-6554
Price: From $271/night
Amenities: Free Parking, Free Wi-fi, Pool with Beach Towels, Free Breakfast, Bicycle Rental, Taxi Service, Bathrobes, Private Balcony, Air Conditioning, Interconnected rooms available, Cable TV, Walk-in Shower
Rating: 5.0 stars
Best Beach Resorts In Ohio
While Ohio has lush deciduous forests, lovely waterfalls, and endless Midwestern charm, you might not think of it as a beachfront location. However, the shores of Lake Erie provide long, beautiful shorelines with gorgeous scenery and more than enough activities to provide fun for all. Here are a couple of beach resorts in Ohio that will be a joy to return to after a day out exploring all that this lovely region has to offer.
Lighthouse Point is a fun family beach resort with individual cabins, many of which are mere steps from the shores where Sandusky Bay meets Lake Erie. It’s also attached to Cedar Point which is a huge amusement park that is chock-full of rollercoasters and other thrilling rides. The cabins have more space on the inside than you might expect from the outside. Each one has a rustic wooden interior that is clean, comfortable, and filled with convenient amenities.
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Address: 1 Cedar Point Dr Cedar Point, Sandusky, OH 44870-5259
Price: From $189/night
Amenities: Free Parking, Free Wi-fi, Pool, Coffee Shop, Mini Golf, Water Park, Children's Activities, Outdoor Play Equipment, Air Conditioning, Safe, Kitchenette, Cable TV, Microwave, Coffee Maker, Outdoor Seating Area, Charcoal Grille, Laundry Facilities
For a more adult-oriented experience, The Lakehouse Inn Resort at Geneva on the Lake is the place to relax and take in a lakeside sunset. Local, award-winning wines are available as well as spa services, delectable local cuisine, and tastefully decorated, comfortable rooms. Take a drive to nearby covered bridges, wineries, Metroparks, and the Historic Ashtabula Harbor. When you need to unwind and take in some natural beauty, this is the place for you.
Address: 5653 Lake Rd E, Geneva on the Lake, OH 44041-9426
Wherever you end up in the Buckeye State, these options are some of the best-rated hotels in Ohio and are sure to make for memorable stays and provide everything you need for a wonderful getaway. If you've stayed at any of these places, please let us know your thoughts in the comments. If you're looking for even more suggestions, take a look at some more of the best hotels in Ohio.
Looking for even more travel inspiration? Check out this stunning footage of one of Ohio's prettiest areas, Hocking Hills:
