Fun Things To Do In Ohio For Spring Break (2024)

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Amusement parks, water parks, aquariums, zoos, botanical gardens, and more… Ohio has a lot of fun activities to enjoy this Spring season!

As such, we’re going to virtually road trip around the state to check out all of the best places to spend Spring Break.

These will include plenty of options for the whole family, just adults, solo travelers, and large groups alike.

So, let’s dive into the best things to do in Ohio for Spring Break!

Related Reading: How To Visit Kings Island On A Budget

Best Things To Do In Ohio For Spring Break

1 – Kings Island

Kings Island is a large amusement park located in Mason, Ohio, known for its diverse range of thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and a water park. Its attractions, live entertainment, restaurants, and special events appeal to families, adrenaline junkies, and visitors of all ages–hence it being a hotspot during Spring Break. 

If you’re planning a trip to the park, you can save up to $37 on Kings Island daily tickets. These tickets are good for one year from the date of purchase and can be fully refunded with free cancellation up to 24 hours before your trip. 

2 – Cedar Point

Cedar Point, situated in Sandusky, Ohio, is renowned for holding the title of “Roller Coaster Capital of the World.” The park has an impressive collection of high-speed, record-breaking roller coasters and a ton of rides for all ages.

Between its resorts, amusement park, and beaches along the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point is a great way to fill your Spring Break. Where else can you get an adrenaline fix and beautiful waterfront views simultaneously?

You can save up to $28 on Cedar Point tickets. Like Kings Island’s, these tickets are good for a year from the date of purchase and can be fully refunded with free cancellation up to a day before your trip.

3 – Castaway Bay

Castaway Bay is Cedar Point’s indoor waterpark resort that features a tropical Caribbean theme with a variety of attractions like slides, wave pools, and children’s areas. Castaway Bay stands out as an Ohio Spring Break destination for its warm, beach-like retreat no matter the outdoor weather conditions. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking indoor activities for their trip.

4 – Cincinnati Botanical Gardens

The Cincinnati Botanical Gardens offers a unique blend of wildlife, diverse plant collections, and beautiful springtime displays. Its appeal lies in the combination of animal encounters and the beauty of its botanical gardens, providing educational and engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.

5 – Cincinnati Zoo

The Cincinnati Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. It’s renowned for its significant animal conservation efforts and a beautiful botanical garden. The zoo’s a great way to combine wildlife experiences and stunning garden displays all in one Spring Break vacay.

6 – Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium showcases an array of animals and aquatic life across numerous global habitats. And, while this attraction is a zoo, it also has a small amusement park (Adventure Cove) and a water park (Zoombezi Bay) too. So, the Columbus Zoo is a must-see attraction for an activity-packed Spring Break! 

7 – Great Lakes Science Center

The Great Lakes Science Center, located in Cleveland, Ohio, offers interactive exhibits and educational programs focused on science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), along with an OMNIMAX theater for immersive film experiences. It’s the perfect Ohio Spring Break option for anyone interested in exploring the wonders of science and technology. 

8 – Franklin Park Conservatory

The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, located in Columbus, Ohio, showcases exotic plant collections, seasonal art and nature-based exhibitions, and a historic 1895 glass greenhouse. It’s a great place to spend Spring Break amongst vibrant flora and artistic installations.

9 – Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge is a family-friendly resort known for its expansive indoor water park, themed accommodations, and a variety of family activities. It also offers a myriad of indoor attractions to enjoy regardless of the weather outside. No one in your party will get bored, that’s for sure. 

It has locations in both Sandusky and near Kings Island.

10 – Old Man’s Cave

Old Man’s Cave, located in Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio, offers breathtaking natural landscapes with its deep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and distinct rock formations. The cave is a popular destination for hiking and photography enthusiasts. If you’re looking for the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of nature for this Spring Break in Ohio, Old Man’s Cave is your go-to (even despite the mildly eccentric name). 

11 – National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, situated near Dayton, Ohio, is the largest and oldest military aviation museum in the world, featuring a vast collection of aircraft and missiles alongside immersive exhibits. The National Museum of the US Air Force makes for a captivating Spring Break trip with its educational and inspiring exhibits, providing visitors of all ages with a comprehensive exploration of aviation history and technology.

12 – Columbus Museum of Art

The Columbus Museum of Art, located in Columbus, Ohio, highlights a diverse collection of American and European art, contemporary pieces, a photography collection, and innovative exhibitions. The museum stands out as a Spring Break destination with its dedicated artistic creativity, making it a beautiful place to visit during your vacation.

13 – Cincinnati Museum Center

The Cincinnati Museum Center, housed in the historic Union Terminal, is a cultural complex that includes museums dedicated to natural history, science, and local heritage. It offers a range of interactive and educational exhibits. The Cincinnati Museum Center stands out as a Spring Break destination due to its unique mix of educational experiences across various fields, positioning it as the perfect spot for inquisitive individuals of all ages.

14 – Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for its extensive collection of art from around the world, including renowned Asian and Egyptian art collections. This destination shines for Spring Break trips by offering a rich cultural and educational journey through its world-class art collections and exhibitions. Not to mention, the Cleveland Museum is one of a few free things to do in Ohio for Spring Break.

15 – EnterTRAINment Junction

EnterTRAINment Junction, located in West Chester, Ohio, boasts the world’s largest indoor model train display, along with a family-friendly entertainment center featuring a railroad museum, interactive exhibits, and a children’s play area. This attraction is one of the most unique in Ohio, being a hotspot for train enthusiasts and Spring Breakers wanting to check out something new.

16 – Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, nestled between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio, offers a peaceful retreat with its lush landscapes, hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic sites. You can enjoy scenic hikes, bike trails, and the picturesque Brandywine Falls. The National Park is a prime Spring Break destination to escape the city and immerse in nature.

17 – Hocking Hills State Park

Hocking Hills State Park, located in southeastern Ohio, is famed for its stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and deep forests. It’s one of the best state parks in Ohio and is especially beautiful this time of year. The park has an array of outdoor adventures like hiking, bird watching, zip-lining, and rock climbing, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

18 – Olentangy Caverns

Olentangy Caverns, situated north of Columbus, Ohio, offers a fascinating journey into underground caverns of unique geological formations that were formed millions of years ago. The Olentangy Caverns present an adventurous Spring Break outing, enabling visitors to discover the natural world beneath the Earth’s surface.

19 – Boonshoft Museum of Discovery

The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, located in Dayton, Ohio, is an interactive science museum featuring exhibits on natural history, astronomy, and biology. The Museum of Discovery also has a planetarium and live animal habitats. The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery shines as a Spring Break destination with its captivating novelty mix of education and entertainment, ideal for folks of all ages.

20 – Put-In-Bay

Put-In-Bay, situated on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, is a charming vacation spot known for its historic sites, waterfront parks, and lively entertainment district. The Bay island stands out as a lovely Spring Break spot with its variety of outdoor activities, including kayaking and parasailing, alongside a lively social atmosphere. It’s a beloved spot amongst many Ohioans. 

Kid Friendly Things To Do In Ohio For Spring Break

There are many things to do in Ohio for Spring Break that are perfect for families. With destinations from amusement parks to educational museums, there’s no shortage of options.

Amusement Parks:

• Kings Island: Located near Cincinnati, this park offers an assortment of rides suitable for all age groups, including the little ones.
• Cedar Point: Sandusky’s gem, known as the roller coaster capital of the world, likewise offers many attractions for children and families.

Indoor Water Parks:

• Great Wolf Lodge: Both Sandusky and Cincinnati locations provide a warm escape with indoor water slides and pools.
• Castaway Bay: Also in Sandusky, this tropical-themed indoor water park promises year-round fun regardless of the weather.

Zoological Experiences:

• Columbus Zoo & Aquarium: Engage with a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits, ideal for an educational and fun-filled day.

Things To Do In Ohio For Spring Break For Couples

Spring Break provides an ideal opportunity for couples to explore Ohio’s diverse attractions. Your time can be both memorable and varied, from cultural experiences in the cities to natural retreats in the countryside.

Cultural & Recreational:

• Cleveland Brewery Passport: Begin your experience with the Cleveland Brewery Passport. Tour the lively brewery scene, with each venue offering a unique taste of local craft beers.
• Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: This iconic museum celebrates the legacy and impact of rock music with exhibits and memorabilia that will strike a chord with both of you.
• Findlay Market: Ohio’s oldest continuously operated public market with a variety of food and drink options that boast both regional and international flavors. Couples can enjoy the market’s lively atmosphere and discover local artisan products perfect for a picnic.

Outdoor Experiences:

• Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: For a tranquil afternoon, visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens in Columbus. The floral displays and seasonal exhibits create a picturesque setting for strolling amidst blooming flowers or enjoying a bike ride around the parklands.
• Put-In-Bay: Put-In-Bay is a popular spot for adults on account of its entertainment offerings, events, resorts (with swim-up bars), and outdoor activities like parasailing and hiking.

Free Things To Do In Ohio For Spring Break

During spring break in Ohio, you have the opportunity to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to both nature enthusiasts and culture aficionados.

Outdoor Activities:

• Cuyahoga National Park: Discover scenic trails, waterways, and forests where you can hike miles of trails filled with spring blooms and local wildlife.
• Ash Cave: The Hocking Hills region offers a picturesque setting with its massive recessed cave and waterfall, perfect for an afternoon hike.
• Mill Creek Park: Known as Northeast Ohio’s gem, this park offers stunning lakes, picturesque trails, and unique plant and animal life. 

Arts & History:

• National Museum of the US Air Force: Visit exhibits spanning from early aviation to space exploration at the world’s largest military aviation museum.
• Cincinnati Art Museum: Engage with impressive art collections and exhibits spanning 6,000 years.

Wrap Up

Ohio has ample Spring Break fun to get into!

If you’re down south near the Cincinnati area, scope out how to visit Kings Island on a budget or what the best breakfast spots are in the Queen City.

If you’re more up north, Medina is a cottagecore-eque hidden gem with unique attractions and eateries of its own.

The Buckeye State has some of the best Spring activities in the Midwest, so you’ll be in for a perfect time.

Happy Spring Break!

For more Ohio travel guides, you can also check out:

• A Trip To Medina OH: Things To Do & Attractions Nearby
• Best Donuts In Cincinnati Ohio
• Top 10+ Breakfast Spots In Cincinnati OH
• How To Visit Kings Island On A Budget
• The History Of Chippewa Lake Park

​Thanks for reading!

Ohio Spring Break 2024 FAQs

When planning your spring break in Ohio, you may have questions about activities that fit your budget and interests. Below are some of the common inquiries with straightforward answers to help you make the most of your trip.

What are some budget-friendly spring break options in Ohio?

You can explore Hocking Hills State Park at no cost, where scenic hikes offer views of waterfalls and verdant landscapes.

Additionally, spring festivals like the Maple Sugar Festival in Geauga County provide free entertainment and a taste of local culture.

What are some activities for couples in Ohio during spring break?

Couples in Ohio can embark on wine-tasting tours in regions such as the Lake Erie Grape Belt or the Ohio River Valley which feature a variety of wineries.

A visit to the state’s scenic parks and gardens, like the ones found in Cleveland, also offers a romantic backdrop for a spring break date.

How can one find free attractions in Ohio for spring break?

Free attractions in Ohio can be easily found by checking community calendars, visiting local tourism websites, or dropping by visitor centers in various cities.

At these places, you can get up-to-date information on free events and local points of interest.

What are the top family destinations in Ohio for a spring break vacation?

Great Seal State Park is a prime family destination with ample outdoor activities, while the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park offers educational and interactive experiences.

Look for day trip suggestions that highlight family-friendly parks, museums, and festivals.

What is there to do in Cleveland on spring break?

Cleveland offers a range of activities. You can visit the world-renowned Cleveland Museum of Art, which has free admission. Or, explore the nature trails at Cleveland Metroparks. The city also hosts various events and festivals in the spring which cater to diverse interests.