Anyone who thinks Ohio is an industrial state is wrong. In the 1980s, the state may have been the center of the Rust Belt, but the beautiful nature and impressive cities of the state have now also been discovered. Ohio is sometimes overlooked by Dutch tourists due to its industrial past, and that is an immense shame. Those looking for a thoroughly American experience should definitely not miss Ohio. Cities, nature, amusement parks and the Amish: the authentic America of the industrial middle class can be found here!
History
The English name “Ohio” comes from the Iroquois word ohi-yo, meaning “great stream.” Ohio joined the American Union as the 17th state on March 1, 1803. During the American Civil War, Ohio belonged to the Union.
Geography
According to growtheology, Ohio is bordered to the north by the state of Michigan and Canada across Lake Erie. It borders Indiana in the west, Pennsylvania in the east and the Ohio River largely forms the border with the states of West Virginia and Kentucky in the south. The northern half of the state is fairly flat, the south is more hilly. The highest point is the top of Campbell Hill (472m). Ohio has more than 2,500 lakes.
The largest city in Ohio is the capital Columbus. Other major cities include Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, Cleveland and Dayton.
12 Ohio landmarks
1. Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Varied natural landscapes in the middle of the city? In Columbus you can. In the east of the city is Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. This huge park has more than 400 different (tropical) plant species. Walk outside through one of the various botanical gardens or view the collection of palm or bonsai trees in one of the conservatories. There are several exhibitions in the park every season, with no fewer than different exhibitions as a highlight in the spring; including one about Chihuly glass and butterflies. The park is open every day from 10am to 5pm; admission for an adult is approximately $20.
2. West Side Market
A must-visit when in Cleveland, Ohio is West Side Market. This is a covered market hall right in the center. Just the hall itself is beautiful; it is reminiscent of the Victorian period in which it was built. In the hall you will find more than 100 independent stalls serving or selling local specialties. Whether you fancy meat, fish or pastries: it’s all here! The market is open every day of the week, except Thursday. Please note: the market hall closes at 4 p.m. on weekdays!
3. A Christmas Story House
Who doesn’t know him, the Christmas movie classic from 1984: “A Christmas Story”. Did you always dream away at Ralphie’s cozy house, completely lit up in Christmas atmosphere? In Cleveland, you can actually visit the house from the movie. You’ll see set pieces, costumes and other memorabilia from the movies, as well as never-before-seen behind-the-scenes photos. The house also has a museum and a gift shop. Can’t get enough of it? You can even sleep in the house, but then you have to book in time.
4. Great American Ball Park
Definitely a must do when you are in America: attend a baseball game. Cincinnati is home to the Cincinnati Reds, who play their home games at Great American Baseball Park. The stadium is located on the Ohio River, in the middle of the city, so it is easy to reach. There is room for no fewer than 42,000 spectators! There are also regular tours of the stadium, which take you to places where the public is not normally allowed to go, including the press room and the dugout. Don’t you like sports? Big names like Paul McCartney and Beyoncé have performed at Great American Baseball Park before, so who knows, there might be a concert while you’re there!
5. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is located in Akron, south of Cleveland. This is a huge mansion that was built in 1910 by FA Seiberberg, a very wealthy rubber merchant. There are five buildings and ten (!) gardens on the immense grounds. The main building consists of no less than 65 rooms and is completely built according to the English Tudor style. All rooms are beautifully decorated, so be sure to bring a camera. You can participate in a guided tour, but you can also explore the grounds yourself. Adult access to the main building costs approximately $20. Please note that the site is closed on Mondays!
6. Easton Town Center
Those who feel like shopping will always succeed in Easton Town Center, a large shopping complex in Columbus. The complex was one of the first large shopping centers in the city, which is why it has a well-organized layout. There are more than 300 shops here! Because of its ‘mid-century’ decor and fountains everywhere, it has a very attractive atmosphere. You can even park in front of some stores. You will find the department stores Macy’s and Nordstrom in this shopping center.
7. Amish Country
Looking for something you’ll only find in America? Then spend the day in Amish Country, an area south of Cleveland. You may be familiar with it: the Amish are a reclusive and close-knit community, who still live according to the traditions of the late eighteenth century. They travel by horse and buggy and have no television, computer or mobile phone. During your visit they will tell you more about their culture. Take a look at their farms or take a ride in a horse and carriage. Every season has specially organized activities, also for visitors. So be sure to check out what there is to do during the time you will be there!
8. Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial
For a nice view of Lake Erie, you must visit the Perry’s Victory and International Peace Monument. This monument is located on an island (Put in Bay) in the middle of the lake. A Doric pillar is a memento of the Battle of Lake Erie in the War of 1812, in which Master Commander Oliver Hazard Perry helped the Americans win the battle. Since then, the Americans, British and Canadians have been staunch allies and have celebrated peace for over 200 years. The pillar symbolizes this international peace and thus also one of the few unguarded border areas in the world. From the island you not only have a view of the lake, but you can also see the mainland of Ohio, Michigan and the Canadian province of Ontario in the distance.
9. Progressive Field
Staying near Cleveland and would like to see a baseball game? Dan must be in Progressive Field. This is the home stadium of the Cleveland Indians, the baseball team of Cleveland, who play in the Major Baseball League. The stadium was opened in 1994 and has room for no less than 35,000 visitors. To complete your visit, grab a pre-dinner meal at Terrace Club, the stadium’s restaurant; or you can buy Indian merchandise from the Indians Shop so you can watch the game in style. Can’t get enough of it? Then take part in a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium.
10. Lake View Cemetery
Perhaps a bit sinister to visit a cemetery during your vacation, but Lakeview Cemetery, despite being a cemetery, is beautiful. This natural cemetery has been there since 1869, right in the middle of the city. Because the cemetery is so huge (115 hectares), you can take a guided tour of the grounds. Notable names buried here include John D. Rockefeller, the United States’ first billionaire, and Ray Chapman, a baseball player for the Cleveland Indians.
11. Hershberger’s Farm & Bakery
In the town of Millersburg, in the middle of Amish Country, you will find the family-owned Hershberger’s Farm and Bakery. This is not just a bakery, it even has an entire farm attached to it! All products are made here themselves, and then sold in the bakery. This way you can be sure that you are tasting a fresh and authentic product! Flowers are also sold here and they recently opened an antique shop. Children can pet the farm animals or take a ride on a pony in the petting zoo. A fun outing for the whole family!
12. Kingwood Center Gardens
Looking for a lavish day out? The Kingwood Center Gardens are located between Cleveland and Columbus. This is a huge colonial mansion with several gardens. The house was commissioned in 1926 by Charles Kelley King, a businessman. The house itself is very impressive, but the gardens really steal the show. You will find a rose garden, a herb garden and a peony garden here. The grounds also feature several hidden fountains and houses with special collections of cacti and tropical plants. Adult admission is about $5, children under 12 enter for free.
Ohio FAQs
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Ohio?
In terms of temperature and weather, you can rather skip Ohio in the winter (from November) due to the (ice) storms and rain showers. The weather gets better from the end of April/beginning of May: temperatures rise above twenty degrees. The weather is of course at its best in the summer, but then you are in the high season in terms of crowds and prices.
What can you do in Ohio?
In Ohio you can find activities for everyone; young and old. Whether you like action or tranquility, you can do it in Ohio. Visit the bustling cities of Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinatti, or find the tranquility of the countryside.
How many days do you need in Ohio?
This of course completely depends on the time you have and the budget you have at your disposal. In Ohio the distances are reasonable (from Cincinnati in the south to Cleveland in the north is about four and a half hours). If you get there about a week and a half before your Ohio vacation, you’re sure to see all the highlights!
How far in advance should I book my Ohio vacation?
The earlier you book, the lower the price ….flights can be reserved by us 11 months before departure.
What is useful to know before booking a travel package to Ohio?
If you book a package holiday with AmerikaNu.nl you are always insured.