OhioCarmen Willings
itinerantjoy.com April 26, 2025 Ohio is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the shores of Lake Erie to the rolling hills of Appalachia. The state is recognized for its contributions to aviation, with the Wright brothers hailing from Dayton. Ohio is home to vibrant cities like Cleveland and Columbus, offering rich cultural, sports, and food scenes. Additionally, it’s famous for its historical landmarks, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and is a key player in American industrial history.
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National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National ParkWebsite: Cuyahoga Valley National Park
A scenic retreat that blends natural beauty with cultural history. The park features lush forests, rolling farmlands, and picturesque sites like Brandywine Falls, offering a peaceful contrast to the nearby urban landscape. At its heart is the Towpath Trail, which follows the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal, inviting visitors to hike, bike, or explore the region’s industrial and transportation past. With abundant wildlife and year-round recreation, the park is a cherished green space in the heart of northeast Ohio.
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Cuyahoga Valley National Park
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- Canal Visitor Center The Canal Era is a story of working people striving to realize the Founding Fathers' vision. Some prospered as businesses flourished along the watery interstate "highways" of the day. Immigrants and people of color struggled for work, greater freedom, and acceptance.
- Brandywine Falls This 60-foot waterfall is accessed via a partially accessible boardwalk. Avoid this area during peak time as it is our most popular location and parking near the falls is limited. The 1.5-mile loop lets you explore beyond the waterfall.
- Boston Visitor Center Boston Mill Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Meet park staff, plan your visit, learn about all the park has to offer, and browse the park store. You can also pick up brochures, maps, passport stamps, and our park newspaper, The Valley Guide. Walk through our exhibits to learn the history of this rehabilitated 1905 Cleveland-Akron Bag Company general store and the wider rehabilitation of the Cuyahoga River and its valley.
- Blue Hen Falls The scenic overlook at Blue Hen Falls is a popular hiking destination in the Boston area. The 15-foot waterfall is lovely throughout the year. The hike is 3 miles roundtrip from the Boston Mill Visitor Center on the rugged Buckeye Trail.
- Towpath Trail Here you can travel the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal on the same path that mules walked to tow canal boats loaded with goods and passengers. From the trail, you can make connections to many natural and historic sites, as well as to Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
- The Ledges The Ledges Trail circles a plateau of striking rock formations and provides stunning views along the way.
National Trails
​Lewis & Clark National Historic TrailWebsite: Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail
This expansive trail retraces the legendary 1803–1806 expedition led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they explored the vast Louisiana Territory. While most of the journey occurred west of the Mississippi River, the trail’s eastern reaches in Ohio highlight the early preparations and political groundwork laid by the Corps of Discovery. In Ohio, visitors can explore sites that reflect the expedition’s impact on Native American communities, early frontier settlements, and the strategic planning that launched one of America’s most famous exploratory missions.
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​Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail
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North Country National Scenic TrailWebsite: North Country National Scenic Trail
Spanning over 4,800 miles, the North Country Trail is the longest National Scenic Trail in the U.S., offering a journey through diverse landscapes from the Green Mountains to the prairies of the Great Plains. In Ohio, the trail passes through forested ridges, glacial valleys, and scenic farmland, connecting hikers with state parks, historic canals, and preserved natural areas. In Ohio, the trail winds through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Wayne National Forest.
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Wayne National Forest
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National Historical Parks
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical ParkThis park commemorates the lives and achievements of three pioneering figures—Wilbur and Orville Wright, the inventors of powered flight, and Paul Laurence Dunbar, a renowned African American poet and writer. Visitors can explore several sites including the Wright Cycle Company Complex, Huffman Prairie Flying Field, and the Wright Brothers Aviation Center.
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Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
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Hopewell Culture National Historical ParkThis remarkable park preserves the vast ceremonial earthworks built by the Hopewell people nearly 2,000 years ago. These ancient mounds and geometric formations, crafted with astronomical precision, served as sacred spaces for social and religious gatherings. Walking through the preserved sites—such as Mound City Group—you’ll gain a deeper understanding of a sophisticated Native American culture that once spread across the eastern U.S. The park invites reflection on community, tradition, and long-lost connections to the land.
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Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
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National Historic Sites
Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National MonumentThis monument honors Colonel Charles Young, a trailblazing African American soldier, diplomat, and educator. Born into slavery, Young rose through the military ranks to become the first Black colonel in the U.S. Army. The site includes his home, known as “Youngsholm,” where visitors can learn about his career, his leadership of the Buffalo Soldiers, and his contributions to civil rights and military history.
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Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument
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First Ladies National Historic Site205 Market Ave S, Canton, OH 44702
Website: First Ladies NHS Located in the former home of First Lady Ida Saxton McKinley, this site offers a unique look at the changing role of the First Lady in American history. Exhibits explore the personal stories, public impact, and evolving duties of presidential spouses—from early pioneers to modern advocates. The nearby visitor center features rotating exhibits and artifacts that bring these stories to life and highlight the influence of women in shaping national policy and culture.
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First Ladies National Historic Site
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James A. Garfield National Historic SiteThis historic site preserves the home and grounds of President James A. Garfield, featuring his famous front porch from which he conducted the first “front porch” presidential campaign in 1880. Visitors can tour the beautifully restored Victorian mansion, learn about Garfield’s rise from humble beginnings to national leadership, and explore exhibits about his presidency, family life, and tragic assassination. The site offers a window into the life of a man committed to reform, education, and national unity.
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James A. Garfield National Historic Site
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William Howard Taft National Historic Site2038 Auburn Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45219
Website: William Howard Taft National Historic Site Step into the birthplace and childhood home of William Howard Taft, the only person to serve as both President and Chief Justice of the United States. The historic site includes period furnishings, family artifacts, and interactive exhibits that delve into Taft’s lifelong commitment to public service, law, and constitutional governance. It provides insight into how his formative years shaped a legacy of leadership that bridged the executive and judicial branches.
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William Howard Taft National Historic Site
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National Memorials
Perry's Victory and International Peace MemorialCommemorates Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. The monument, a 352-foot Doric column, symbolizes both military triumph and lasting peace between the United States, Great Britain, and Canada. Visitors can climb to the observation deck for panoramic views of Lake Erie and surrounding islands. The memorial also honors six naval officers, three American and three British, who died in the battle.
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Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial
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Historic & Cultural Landmarks
Cedar Point Amusement ParkKnown as the "Roller Coaster Capital of the World," Cedar Point is one of the oldest amusement parks in the United States, opening in 1870. Beyond its 70+ rides and world-famous roller coasters, it also offers a historic atmosphere, blending thrilling modern attractions with a rich legacy of amusement park history.
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Cedar Point Amusement Park
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David Berger National Memorial26001 S Woodland Rd, Beachwood, OH 44122
Website: David Berger National Memorial This small but impactful memorial honors the life of David Berger, an American-Israeli athlete who was tragically killed during the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis. The memorial is a moving tribute to his memory and legacy, as well as a symbol of the global fight against terrorism.
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David Berger National Memorial
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Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis NHSThe site of the 1794 Battle of Fallen Timbers, this historic landmark marks a turning point in the Northwest Indian War, where American forces defeated a confederation of Native American tribes. The victory secured American control of the Northwest Territory and is considered a pivotal moment in early U.S. history.
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Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site
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Historic Chardon SquareThis charming town square in Chardon is a well-preserved example of Ohio’s 19th-century architecture, complete with quaint shops and historic buildings. It provides a peaceful glimpse into the past, showcasing the town’s history and offering a picturesque setting for visitors to explore.
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Historic Chardon Square
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National Underground Railroad Freedom CenterLocated on the banks of the Ohio River, this powerful museum commemorates Ohio’s vital role in the Underground Railroad. Through exhibits focused on the abolitionist movement, freedom, and resistance, the center explores the courageous efforts that led to the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States.
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National Underground Railroad Freedom Center
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Pro Football Hall of FameAs the epicenter of American football history, the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton honors the sport’s greatest players, coaches, and contributors. With extensive exhibits, memorabilia, and interactive displays, it tells the story of football’s evolution and impact on American culture.
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Pro Football Hall of Fame
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Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & MuseumsLocated at the former estate of the 19th U.S. president, this site includes the Victorian-era Hayes home, a museum with artifacts from his life and presidency, and the nation’s first presidential library. Visitors can explore exhibits on the Civil War, Reconstruction, and Hayes’s efforts toward civil service reform, while walking the beautiful, wooded grounds of Spiegel Grove.
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Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums
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The Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical GardensThis vibrant horticultural attraction combines natural beauty with architectural elegance. Its grand historic glasshouse showcases diverse plant collections from around the world, including desert, tropical, and Himalayan biomes. The outdoor gardens and rotating art exhibits, including work by Dale Chihuly, make this a must-see destination for lovers of both nature and design.
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The Franklin Park Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
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Zoar VillageZoar is a historic 19th-century settlement founded by German Separatists who sought religious freedom and communal living. Visitors can explore the preserved buildings and learn about the unique history of the village, which was a self-sustaining community dedicated to cooperation and shared values. The village’s rich history offers a fascinating look into early American communal life.
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Zoar Village
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Nature & State Parks
Hocking Hills State ParkFeatures dramatic rock formations, sandstone gorges, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. Signature spots like Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls are accessible by scenic hiking trails that showcase the area's natural beauty year-round. It's also a hub for zip-lining, cabin stays, and stargazing.
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Hocking Hills State Park
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Malabar Farm State ParkThe historic homestead of author and conservationist Louis Bromfield, this park blends a working farm with literary and environmental history. Visitors can tour the restored Big House, walk nature trails, and learn about Bromfield’s pioneering sustainable agriculture practices.
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Malabar Farm State Park
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Mohican State ParkKnown for its rugged terrain and rich forest landscape, this park is a favorite for outdoor recreation. The Clear Fork Gorge, covered bridge, and scenic overlooks draw hikers and photographers, while the Mohican River is perfect for canoeing, kayaking, and tubing adventures.
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Mohican State Park
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Rocky River ReservationValley Pkwy, North Olmsted, OH 44070
Website: Rocky River Reservation Part of Cleveland Metroparks, this lush river valley features dramatic cliffs, wooded trails, and diverse wildlife habitats. It’s a haven for birdwatching, picnicking, and nature photography. The scenic river winds through the park, offering peaceful spots for kayaking and enjoying Ohio’s natural beauty close to the city.
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Rocky River Reservation
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Unique Places
The National Packard MuseumThis museum celebrates the legacy of the Packard automobile, a luxury car brand that was once a leader in American innovation. The museum showcases vintage vehicles, automotive artifacts, and exhibits highlighting the Packard family's influence on transportation, engineering, and design.
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The National Packard Museum
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The Ohio State ReformatoryThis imposing Gothic-style prison in Mansfield draws visitors with its dramatic architecture and rich history. Operational from 1896 to 1990, it became world-famous as the filming location for The Shawshank Redemption. Today, it offers guided tours, historic exhibits, and seasonal ghost hunts.
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The Ohio State Reformatory
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The Rock and Roll Hall of FameSituated on the Lake Erie waterfront in Cleveland, this world-renowned museum honors rock music’s most influential artists, producers, and cultural icons. With interactive exhibits, rare memorabilia, and dynamic displays, it traces the genre’s evolution and celebrates its global impact.
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The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
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Dark Sky Places
- Geauga Observatory Park – Geauga County, OH. A true sanctuary for stargazers, Observatory Park is designated as a Silver Tier International Dark Sky Park. With minimal light pollution, it offers incredible views of the Milky Way, planets, and meteor showers. The park features public telescopes, astronomy trails, and interactive exhibits, making it a perfect spot for an unforgettable night under the stars.
- Fry Family Park (Urban Night Sky Place) – Stark County, OH. Located just outside the city lights of Canton, Fry Family Park has been recognized as an Urban Night Sky Place for its efforts to protect dark skies close to urban areas. It offers a surprising escape into nature, with wide open meadows and darkened skies perfect for casual stargazing, night hikes, and educational programs about the wonders of the night.
Iconic Ohio Foods
- Baby Swiss Cheese (Holmes County / Amish Country). Creamy, mild cheese with small holes — a local take on Swiss, made famous in Amish communities.
- Barberton Fried Chicken Unique to Barberton, Ohio — fresh, spicy, pan-fried chicken served with signature sides like vinegar coleslaw and hot rice. Known as the "Chicken Capital of the World" for a reason!
- Buckeyes (Candy). Named after the state tree’s nut, these no-bake treats are made with peanut butter rolled into balls and dipped in chocolate — leaving just a little peanut butter showing.
- Cincinnati Chili. A thin, spiced meat sauce (with hints of cinnamon, chocolate, and cloves) served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheese — famously ordered "3-way," "4-way," or "5-way."
- Cream Puffs (Akron). Made famous by the Summit County Fair and West Side Market, these giant pastry shells are filled with sweet whipped cream or custard.
- Der Dutchman Bakery Treats (Amish Country) Massive cinnamon rolls, fry pies (hand pies filled with fruit), and cookies from Amish bakeries like Der Dutchman are absolutely iconic for visitors and locals alike.
- Goetta (Cincinnati area) A German-American breakfast staple — a mix of ground meat (pork and beef), steel-cut oats, and spices, sliced and fried until crispy. (Technically more famous in Cincinnati but Ohioans claim it.)
- Gorant Candies (Youngstown, OH) A beloved Ohio chocolate maker, Gorant is famous for rich, creamy chocolates, nut clusters, and seasonal specialties. Their hand-dipped treats, especially around holidays, have been a sweet tradition in Northeast Ohio for generations.
- Hand-Cut Potato Chips (like Conn’s or Ballreich’s) Ohio prides itself on its locally made potato chips — thicker cut, slightly curly, and extra crispy. Ballreich’s (Sandusky) and Conn’s (Zanesville) are historic brands.
- Johnny Marzetti A baked pasta casserole made with noodles, ground beef, tomato sauce, and cheese. Originated in Columbus at Marzetti’s Restaurant, this comforting dish became wildly popular in Ohio homes and schools.
- Lake Erie Perch & Walleye. Fresh-caught and lightly fried, these flaky white fish are staples along Ohio’s northern coast.
- Ohio Maple Syrup You already mentioned it briefly elsewhere — but maple syrup made from Ohio’s sugar maples (especially northeast Ohio) is its own iconic product, often celebrated with festivals.
- Pawpaw Fruit (Seasonal, Appalachian Ohio) Ohio’s state native fruit! Pawpaws taste like a tropical blend of banana, mango, and melon — they're wild-harvested and celebrated every September at the Ohio Pawpaw Festival.
- Pierogies (Cleveland & Northeast OH). Thanks to Eastern European immigrants, pierogies — dumplings filled with potato, cheese, or sauerkraut — are everywhere in Northern Ohio.
- Polish Boys (Cleveland). A messy, over-the-top sandwich of kielbasa sausage, coleslaw, BBQ sauce, and fries on a bun.
- Sauerkraut Balls. A deep-fried snack blending sauerkraut and sausage (or sometimes cream cheese), especially common at festivals and fairs.
- Shaker Lemon Pie A traditional pie made by early Shaker settlers in Ohio, using whole lemons (rind and all), sliced thin, mixed with sugar, and baked into a tart, sweet, and slightly bitter custard. A real Ohio original!
- Sugar Cream Pie. Sometimes called "Desperation Pie," this creamy dessert originated in the Midwest and is loved in Ohio. Think sweet custard in a flaky pie crust.
- White House Fruit Farm Blueberry Donuts (Canfield, OH) Famous across the state, these soft, slightly sweet donuts are packed with real blueberries and lightly glazed. People drive for hours to White House Fruit Farm, especially during blueberry season, just to get a dozen (or three)!
Sensory Souvenirs
- Amish Quilting Samples – Pieces of finely stitched fabric, often featuring bold patterns and vibrant colors. A tactile reminder of Ohio’s strong Amish heritage.
- Amish-made Jams or Pickles – Sweet or tangy treats made from homegrown fruits and vegetables, reflecting the traditions of Amish country kitchens.
- Apple Butter (from Ohio orchards) – Thick, smooth, and richly spiced, apple butter is a favorite fall spread crafted from Ohio-grown apples.
- Buckeye Candy (chocolate and peanut butter) – A beloved Ohio treat resembling the nut of the Buckeye tree, made from creamy peanut butter dipped in rich chocolate.
- Buckeyes (actual nut, not edible) – Smooth, shiny brown nuts from the Ohio Buckeye tree—Ohio’s state tree and a proud symbol of the state.
- Carved Wooden Toys or Utensils – Handcrafted from warm, smooth wood. These pieces offer a traditional feel and represent Ohio’s strong woodworking heritage.
- Cleveland Polka or Rock Music Recordings – High-energy beats and iconic tunes; Cleveland is the birthplace of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and polka is a big part of local musical history too!
- Flint (Ohio’s official gemstone) – Hard, glassy stone once used by Ohio’s ancient peoples for tools and weapons, now prized for its smooth yet gritty feel.
- Hand-dipped Candles (Amish Country) – Beautifully crafted with layered wax, these candles are soft to the touch and carry a faint, sweet scent of beeswax or natural oils.
- Handmade Pottery from Zoar or Amish Country – Cool and slightly textured surfaces; these historic pottery styles reflect centuries-old craftsmanship.
- Homespun Wool – Thick, slightly rough wool made from Ohio-raised sheep, evoking the rich farming traditions of the state.
- Lake Erie Beach Stones – Smoothed by waves, these stones are cool and rounded, each carrying the story of Ohio’s Great Lake shoreline.
- Locally-made Cornhusk Dolls (Amish Country) – Rustic and lightweight, these dolls are made from dried corn leaves, an old tradition kept alive in Ohio’s farming communities.
- Ohio Maple Syrup – Thick and sweet, maple syrup from Ohio’s sugar maples is a beloved local product, especially celebrated during early spring "maple sugaring" festivals.
- Ohio State Plaid or Fabric Samples – Thick, sturdy cotton or wool in Ohio’s signature scarlet and gray tones; cozy, bold, and full of state pride.
- Pressed Scarlet Carnations (Ohio’s state flower) – Delicate and lightly textured; the scarlet carnation represents Ohio’s love of beauty and history.
- Recordings of Ohio’s Bird Calls – Featuring songs from Lake Erie’s marshes and forests, these gentle recordings offer a calming soundscape of local wildlife.
- Sachets of Dried Wildflowers or Lavender from Amish Country – Soft to the touch and naturally fragrant, evoking the peaceful fields and gardens of rural Ohio.
- Small Samples of Salt Rock (from ancient salt deposits in Ohio) – Grainy and rough pieces, a reminder of Ohio’s ancient seas and early salt mining history.
- Sycamore Tree Bark – Flaky, smooth, and mottled bark from Ohio’s iconic sycamore trees, often found along riverbanks.
- Tiny Pieces of Ohio River Driftwood – Smooth, light, and shaped by water, these pieces are natural treasures from the historic Ohio River.
- Woven Baskets from Ohio Artisans – Highly tactile, with detailed patterns and sturdy fibers; these baskets showcase Ohio’s tradition of fine handcrafts.