two hours journey to ohio

What is TravelTime?

2 Hours Driving Radius Map

Travel time map generator & isochrones, i know i can get from a to b by public transport within my selected time, but it's not showing up.

• Walking to the station platform
• Waiting for the next available departure
• Time spent boarding the train
• Giving enough time to take the A to B journey
• Depart on the station on the other side.

You can't drive that far / you can drive much further than that"

• Open another mapping app of your choice and enter an A to B route
• Select a departure time for tomorrow.

Still not convinced?

About this tool, what is a travel time map, how to create a drive time radius map or other modes.

• Select a start location
• Select a maximum travel time limit
• Select a mode of transport, for example driving
• Voila! There's your driving radius map

Use cases for consumers

• Create a commute time map so you can see where to live based on commute time.
• How far can i travel in a given time: compare transport coverage for different areas.
• Create a drive time radius map: explore how far you can travel on a road trip.

Use cases for businesses

• Travel time mapping up to 4 hours & cross reference other data sets in GIS such as population data
• Site selection analysis: analyse the best location to locate a business by adding thousands of analysis points
• Create a distance matrix or travel time matrix & calculate travel times from thousands of origins to thousands of destinations
• Network analysis / travelling salesman problem: use spatial analytics to solve routing problems
• Commute time map - plot thousands of employee commute times for an office relocation
• Create up to 3 time polygons visualising where's reachable within 2 hours or less. Our API can create large travel time areas, talk to sales.
• Calculate travel times from an origin to various points of interest - in this demo we use points from Foursquare Give A to B routing details

Full access

• Book a demo
• Trial TravelTime API
• Trial QGIS Plugin
• Trial ArcGIS Pro Add-In
• Trial Alteryx Macros

TravelTime Features

• See 'How far can I get' in X minutes
• Create a drive time map or any other transport mode
• Overlap many shapes & highlight overlap area
• Search points of interest within the area
• Get A to B routing details

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

Distance between United States and Ohio

Driving non-stop from united states to ohio.

How far is Ohio from United States? Here's the quick answer if you have friends taking shifts as driver so that you can make the entire trip by car without stopping.

Nonstop drive: 864 miles or 1390 km

Driving time: 13 hours, 45 minutes

This is a really long drive, so it's not very realistic to drive nonstop. To get a better idea of how long this road trip would actually take, scroll down to calculate how many hours it would be if you drive with stops .

Flying non-stop from United States to Ohio

Now let's assume you have a private jet and you can fly in the fastest possible straight line between United States and Ohio (OH). Because of the curvature of the Earth, the shortest distance is actually the "great circle" distance, or "as the crow flies" which is calculated using an iterative Vincenty formula. For a long distance, this appears as a curve on the map, and this is often the route that commercial airlines will take so it's a good estimate of the frequent flyer miles you'll accumulate as well.

Flight distance: 780 miles or 1255 km

Flight time: 2 hours, 4 minutes

The straight line flight distance is 84 miles less than driving on roads, which means the driving distance is roughly 1.1x of the flight distance.

Your plane flies much faster than a car, so the flight time is about 1/7th of the time it would take to drive.

This is a medium length flight, so unless you have a nice private jet, you might be booking a commercial flight. In that case, your travel time would really need to include how many minutes to get to your local airport, wait for security, board and taxi on the runway, land at the other airport, and get to your destination. Scroll down to see a more realistic calculation that takes into account all these factors to get a more accurate estimate of your actual flight time .

United States to Ohio road trip

Let's say you're actually planning a road trip to Ohio, and you want to stop along the way to rest. If it's a real road trip, you might want to check out interesting stops along the way, eat at great restaurants, and maybe even find a hotel to stay overnight. That's what Trippy is perfect for, helping you figure out travel plans in detail.

Based on the length of this trip, we think you could spread out this fun road trip over more than one day.

Road trip: 2 days of driving

With the full itinerary planned out, we can estimate your total travel time for this trip.

Travel time: 14 hours on the road with 1 overnight

Start at United States .

Drive for about 1.5 hours , then stop in Joplin and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 1 hour then stop in Springfield (Missouri) and stay for 1 hour. Drive for 2 hours then stop in Rolla and stay for 1 hour. Drive for 1.5 hours then stop in St. Louis . Stay overnight. The next day, drive for about 1.5 hours , then stop in Altamont and stay for about 1 hour. Next, drive for another 1.5 hours then stop in Terre Haute (Indiana) and stay for 1 hour. Drive for 1.5 hours then stop in Indianapolis and stay for 1.5 hours. Drive for 2 hours then stop in Dayton and stay for 1 hour. Finally, drive for about 2 hours and arrive at Ohio .

United States to Ohio airports and flights

In the quick calculation above, we assumed you had a private plane and just wanted to know the time in the air from city to city. But for most of us, we're going to be flying on a commercial airline (whether it's first class or coach). So that means we really need to account for all the extra travel time getting to the airport, waiting for our flight, and making it to the destination.

To give you a better estimate of real-life travel, we've put together a flight itinerary with actual airports. Eventually you'll be able to customize this plan, choosing your own airports and flights. But for now, here's an example we've selected to give you an idea of how traveling might work between airports.

Departure airport: Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT)

Arrival airport: Port Columbus International Airport (CMH)

With the airports selected, we can estimate the travel time to and from the airport, based on how far the airport is from downtown.

Getting to the airport: 101 minutes

Getting to your destination: 80 minutes

Now finally, let's look at an actual flight from ICT to CMH and figure out how long it would take to fly including take-off and landing, and time to taxi on the runway.

Commercial flight time: 2 hours, 4 minutes

So now we can finally get an idea of the total travel time from United States to Ohio including time spent getting to/from the airports, an estimated wait time of 2 hours at the airport for TSA security lines and waiting at the gate, and the actual flight itself.

Total travel time: 7 hours

Plan a trip to Ohio

Trippy has a ton of information that can help you plan your trip to Ohio (OH). Start by reading the Trippy page on where to stay in Ohio . Check out some of the questions people have asked about Ohio like Where is the best local Pizza in Town? . Click the button below to explore Ohio in detail.

How far is it the other way?

The distance is the same either way if you're flying a straight line (or driving the same roads back and forth). But for a real trip, there can be plenty of differences so go ahead and check the reverse directions to get the distance from Ohio to United States , or go to the main page to calculate the distance between cities .

If you happen to know United States, don't forget to help other travelers and answer some questions about United States!

More info on this route: elevation from United States to Ohio drive from United States to Ohio road conditions alternate routes Google driving directions

Places to visit about 2 hours from Columbus

Cedar Point (Ohio)

Canton (Ohio)

Huntington (West Virginia)

Moerlein Lager House

Downtown Cincinnati

Skyline Chili

Cincinnati Art Museum

Over-The-Rhine

Rhinegeist Brewery

Cities 2 hours from Columbus

1 hr 59 min :   Lawrenceburg, IN

1 hr 59 min :   Barberton, OH

1 hr 58 min :   Vienna, WV

1 hr 58 min :   Florence, KY

1 hr 58 min :   Hebron, KY

1 hr 58 min :   Oberlin, OH

1 hr 57 min :   Brunswick, OH

1 hr 57 min :   Wheeling, WV

1 hr 57 min :   Independence, KY

1 hr 57 min :   Norwalk, OH

1 hr 57 min :   Akron, OH

1 hr 57 min :   North Baltimore, OH

1 hr 56 min :   Wheelersburg, OH

1 hr 56 min :   Marietta, OH

1 hr 55 min :   Massillon, OH

These are approximate driving times in a radius from Columbus, Ohio. Search for vacation spots within driving distance for a day trip or weekend getaway. There are many towns within the total area, so if you're looking for closer places, try a smaller radius like 1½ hours . If you're willing to drive farther, try 2½ hours .

Not sure where to go? Take a day trip from Columbus , or if you have more time you can explore weekend trips from Columbus , but make sure you also check road conditions around Columbus . Looking for small towns or communities around Columbus, Ohio? Get a full list of up to 500 cities nearby Columbus .

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RV campgrounds 2 hours from Columbus

Crystal Rock Campground

Camp Sandusky

KOA Campground Sandusky Bayshore Estates

Timber Ridge Campgrounds

Timber Ridge Campground (formerly Swift Hollow)

Fire Lake Camper Park

Wooded Acres Campgrounds

American Wilderness Campground

Nimisila Reservoir Metro Park formerly Portage Lakes SP

Zion Retreat and RV Park

Ring Mill Campground

Mountwood Park

Ruby Lake Campground Mhp

Greenbo Lake State Resort

Cabin Run Creek Campground

State parks 2 hours from Columbus

East Harbor

Marblehead Lighthouse Historical Society at Marblehead Lighthouse State Park

Spencer Lake Wildlife Area

Portage Lakes State Park

Fort Laurens Museum

Leesville State Wildlife Area

Harrison State Forest

Barkcamp State Park

Monroe Lake Wildlife Area

Buffington Island State Memorial

Tygarts State Forest

Kincaid Lake State Park

Hueston Woods State Park

Whitewater Memorial State Park

Mary Jane Thurston State Park

More cities around 2 hours away by plane

Here are more cities based on a flight circle radius of 2 hours. These cities are much further than the ones above since now we're looking at a 2 hour flight.

2 hr 1 min :   El Dorado, KS

2 hr 2 min :   Okmulgee, OK

2 hours :   Holly Hill, FL

2 hr 2 min :   Sapulpa, OK

1 hr 59 min :   Ocala, FL

1 hr 57 min :   Marshall, MN

1 hr 59 min :   Ormond Beach, FL

2 hr 2 min :   Minden, LA

2 hr 1 min :   Sand Springs, OK

1 hr 57 min :   Brunswick, ME

1 hr 57 min :   Topsham, ME

2 hours :   Picayune, MS

2 hours :   Long Beach, MS

1 hr 56 min :   Brainerd, MN

2 hr 1 min :   Texarkana, TX

Cities at a radius of

Travel time from Columbus, OH

cities within 1 hour of Columbus 1½ hours from Columbus places within 2 hours of me in Columbus explore 2½ hours from Columbus 3 hr radius map from Columbus 3½ hr drive from Columbus places within 4 hours of me in Columbus within 4½ hours of me in Columbus 5 hour drive from me in Columbus 5½ hour drive from Columbus within 6 hours of Columbus 7 hour drive from Columbus driving 8 hours from Columbus 9 hours from Columbus

Distance from Columbus, OH

cities within 10 miles of me in Columbus within 20 miles of me in Columbus 30 mile radius of Columbus 40 mile drive from Columbus located 50 miles from Columbus 100 mile radius from Columbus within 150 miles of Columbus 200 mile road trip from Columbus distance of 250 miles from Columbus driving 300 miles from Columbus 350 mile trip starting from Columbus 400 mile drive from Columbus drive for 450 miles from Columbus 500 miles from Columbus day trips from Columbus

Columbus, Ohio is located at GPS latitude/longitude coordinates 39° 57' 45" N  /  82° 59' 52" W

18 Best Day Trips From Cincinnati, Ohio

If you live in Cincinnati or just visiting the Queen City, there are a lot of places you can explore only a short drive away from the city. Located at the place where Ohio, Indiana and Kentucky meet, the day trips on our list span the three states.

While doing some research, I found a lot of suggestions for places like Cleveland, Chicago and Detroit but unless your idea of an ideal day trip is spending 10 hours of it in the car, we've only gone with genuine places you can visit within a reasonable drive of downtown Cincinnati.

From exploring nature in State Parks to amazing city visits and fun family adventures, here is our list of the 18 best day trips from Cincinnati.

1. Indianapolis, IN

1 hour 45 minutes from Cincinnati (112 miles)

Indianapolis may be most famous for its Motor Speedway which hosts the Indy 500 race every year. If you're planning on going somewhere around Memorial Weekend and the idea of loud cars completing 500 miles of racing over 200 laps appeals, this is the obvious choice for you.

The rest of the year, you can still visit the oval track and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum which tells a rich history of the local motorsport and the historic track.

But the Circle City has a lot more about it than the screaming of V6 engines. The surprisingly small and very walkable downtown sits just off White River flowing through Indianapolis.

There's good restaurants and cafes and be sure to take a look at the impressive Soldiers/Sailors monument in the heart of the city surrounded by a circular road paved in pretty brick.

Some of the better sights are further out so jump back in the car and head to the Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA) at Newfields and the Children's Museum a few miles north.

The IMA is the 9th oldest and the 8th largest art museum in the United States so whether you like Chinese ceramics, Impressionist paintings or contemporary art forms, you'll find it here.

2. Columbus, OH

1 hour 45 minutes from Cincinnati (107 miles)

Let's stay on the theme of state capitals and move on to Columbus, Ohio. Getting here is equally easy. Instead of I-74, find the I-71 in downtown Cincinnati and follow it northeast until you've arrived in Arch City.

Once you've parked in one of the two large garages right in the middle of the city in Columbus Commons, it's time to check out the Ohio Statehouse. You can roam around on your own, but it's well worth getting in on one of the free tours to hear some interesting stories about the place.

A couple blocks towards the river is the Scioto Mile - a calm place for a walk along Scioto River and relax. The Bicentennial Park at the south end has a huge interactive fountain that is popular in the summer and if you pick the right day, you can catch a great concert in the park as long as you're happy to drive back to Cincinnati a little later on.

One place you have to stop by is North Market - it may not look like much and it is a market selling things like meat and vegetables, but it really sums up the community and the variety of Columbus and is as interesting for exploring the culture as it is for getting great prices on fresh steak.

If you want to visit a real neighborhood, Germantown is a short walk south from Downtown. You'll notice the buildings and restaurants are still proud of the heritage of the German settlers who first moved here. A late lunch can include hearty bratwurst or a schnitzel with a giant stein of cloudy beer.

3. Hoosier National Forest, IN

2 hours 30 minutes from Cincinnati (164 miles)

The Hoosier National Forest covers a large area stretching from the border with Kentucky along Ohio River in the south to the city of Bedford in the north.

There's a lot of different parts you can and should visit - the two and a half hours is how long it takes to Patoka Lake which is one of the prettiest locations in the forest.

Then there's Hemlock Cliffs, Indian-Celina Lake and Tipsaw Lake which will all have a high chance of making you want to abandon city life and move into a small cabin in the woods for the rest of your life.

You can spend the day hiking, horseback riding, fishing or mountain biking in the fresh clean air to the tune of birdsong. Beware that all of the above except hiking need a permit (yes, even mountain biking) so get yours purchased for $5 at one of the stores or camps in the forest.

At over 2 hours each way, Hoosier National Forest may be a little stretch for a day trip from Cincinnati, especially if you're heading to the lakes and rivers further south.

You might want to consider extending it into a weekend getaway and finding a campsite or hotel locally to spend the night and make the most of your time.

4. Louisville, KY

1 hour 40 minutes from Cincinnati (99 miles)

Louisville is the largest city in the Bluegrass State and at under 2 hours' worth of driving, it is one of the best city breaks you can go on from Cincinnati.

The drive from Cincinnati to Louisville is another straight Interstate job - the I-71 takes you right door to door making for an easy journey.

One of the best things to do in Louisville is to just stroll around and pop into places you like the look of for a drink or to grab lunch.

Walk over the Big Four Bridge to get amazing views of the city while listening to the gentle music that is played for those taking a stroll. Then make sure you check out the local stores in Jeffersonville on the other side before heading back.

The rich cultural and music scene will make you want to stay longer and if you're coming over the weekend, you absolutely should. That will give you a good opportunity to actually try the famed local bourbon while listening to live music at one of the bars on 4th Street.

5. Yellow Springs, OH

1 hour 15 minutes from Cincinnati (70 miles)

If you like your towns to have bright colors, a good dose of hippie vibes and funky local shops that don't seem to have changed for decades, Yellow Springs is the place you should pick for your day trip from Cincinnati.

The main part of the town lies along U.S. Route 68 - there's a traditional sweet shop with large jars of candy all around, the Village Herb Shoppe where you can find every kind of herbal tea or essential oils and pretty much anything else made from herbs.

If the weather is good and you fancy a walk, Glen Helen Nature Preserve is right next to the town - you can find the trails down Corry Street and there's around 20 miles of hiking routes, The Cascades falls and a Raptor Center where you can see a number of different birds of prey.

If you want a bit more in the way of hiking and nature, Clifton Gorge and the John Bryan State Park are close - it's not a huge amount of wilderness, but you'll find relaxing views of the Little Miami River flowing through a gorge surrounded by forest.

6. Rabbit Hash, KY

40 minutes from Cincinnati (29 miles)

Rabbit Hash is a small hamlet sitting on the Ohio River, a short drive away from Cincinnati, but this quirky town is an absolute must visit for anybody that likes discovering amazing local towns.

Rabbit Hash got its name in the 1840s after it became apparent that the dish was so popular the locals were having it for Christmas. Local rabbit hash became so popular that people would stop on their way down the river or when driving across the country just to try it.

The main attraction in Rabbit Hash is the General Store. The store has been here since 1831 and is a major attraction for tourists. After an extensive fire in 2016, it was rebuilt using original timber and other reclaimed wood from the era.

The store is so important that it is on the National Register of Historic Places - how is that not reason enough to drive down here?

If you love it so much you want to stay, there is a one-room Old Hashienda Inn by the store with a river-facing porch and a wood stove. You need to book ahead and check in can be done at the store.

If you want to get a feel for exactly how quirky this place is, consider the fact that the current mayor for the town is none other than Brynn Pawltro, a pit bull that was elected into office in 2016. Previous mayors include Lucy Lou (a Border Collie), Junior Cochran (Black Labrador) and Goofy (mixed breed) who started off the tradition by winning the election in 1998.

7. Big Bone Lick State Park, KY

30 minutes from Cincinnati (25 miles)

Big Bone Lick State Park got its name after a large number of animal fossils were discovered here during excavations in the 19th century. The salt deposits around the local sulphur springs brought mammoths, bison and dozens of other species to the marshes.

Today it is a large park with long hiking trails, a campground (only open in the summer), an onsite museum and outdoor displays showing what the ancient animals would have looked like.

For those who like their animals live, there's a herd of bison that roams around the park and you may well spot them as you make your way around.

The museum is larger than you might think - there's a lot of information regarding the fossils and paleontology, some local Native American history and the history of local science and wildlife research.

If you have spare time, Rabbit Hash is only a short drive along the Ohio River and is a worthwhile detour to see a really interesting small riverside town - see #6 above.

8. Dayton, OH

1 hour from Cincinnati (54 miles)

An hour north of Cincinnati along the I-75 is the closest big city - Dayton, Ohio. Dayton is particularly famous as the birthplace of Wilbur and Orville Wright, who were the brothers that invented and flew the first aircraft in history.

Today the city continues to have a strong link to aviation - The Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is just outside the city and has the oldest, largest and, according to many aviation experts, the best aviation museum in the world.

From classic bombers to modern fighters, there's seemingly every type of plane and helicopter on display. You can go inside the Presidential Air Force One aircraft used by the likes of Roosevelt, Kennedy, Truman, Nixon, Ford, H.W. Bush, and Clinton.

The two other main sights in town are also linked to history and both are amazing visual and interactive displays.

The Carillon Historical Park is spread over 30 buildings on a large campus showcasing local history from the 1700s through to the 20th century. Local inventions are the pride and joy of the museum - the cash register and electric car ignition were both born in Dayton.

There's a lot to see here - classic train carriages, examples of local factory setups and and an exhibit dedicated to The Great 1913 Flood that devastated the local area.

The second place is the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. Aside from having an exhaustive amount of interesting things to see to do with the Wright Brothers, it is set around the original bicycle shop where the brothers were starting their invention journey.

9. Loveland, OH

30 minutes from Cincinnati (24 miles)

No - we didn't accidentally add a picture from southern France into this list of day trips from Cincinnati.

This impressive castle is officially called Chateau Laroche after a French military hospital where Harry D. Andrews was stationed during World War I. He had a vision of building a medieval castle and started work on it in the 1920s building it one stone at a time from stones he found in the Little Miami River flowing below.

After he ran out of stones, he began making his own using a mix of materials and drink cartons. In his quest to keep the castle as authentic as a 20th century castle in Ohio can be, he made sure not to install plumbing and reportedly built secret hidden rooms into the structure.

The castle continues to be developed after the founder's death - it was left to the Knights of the Golden Trail boy scouts and today operates as a museum.

Other than the castle, the town of Loveland is a great day out. There's friendly local restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat and local trails and walks as well as many river-based activities in the summer - you can hire canoes and kayaks right in the middle of town.

10. Grayson Lake State Park, KY

2 hours 20 minutes from Cincinnati (127 miles)

Although Grayson Lake State Park is open all year round, you really want to make the drive out during the summer to make the most out of the various activities and things to do.

At over 2 hours away, it's about as far as you'd want to go for a day trip but it's still doable. The park has a campground in case you want to make it a 2-day visit and stay overnight.

The wooded park sits around Grayson Lake and the list of activities includes hiking, fishing, canoeing, paddling, boating and fishing in the lake and a decent golf course.

Canoes are a great way to spend a few hours - you can find your way into the rocky canyons coming off the lake and enjoy views of the trees lining the shore.

11. Ohio Caverns, OH

1 hour 45 minutes from Cincinnati (145 miles)

The Ohio Caverns are the largest known cave network in the State of Ohio with over 2 miles of passageways through the rocks deep below the ground.

They were discovered accidentally when a small sinkhole formed above one of the entrances to the cave system and a local boy decided to see what lay below.

The caverns are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from May to September and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from October to April. It actually doesn't matter when you decide to visit because the caverns' unique ecosystem means the temperature inside is 54 °F all year round whether it's boiling hot or freezing outside.

Tours run through the day with the last one starting an hour before closing time - one of the tour options lets you see some of the caves in their unspoiled natural state as they were found when the caverns were first discovered in 1897.

The stalactites and stalagmites here come in different shapes, sizes and colors in different parts of the cavern network. The best known one is a white stalactite called Crystal King and has grown to around 5 feet over 200,000 years.

12. Hocking Hills State Park, OH

2 hours 30 minutes from Cincinnati (136 miles)

Hocking Hills may be a relatively long drive away from Cincinnati for a day trip, but it offers a lot more than many other parks and it can be well worth it to get up that little bit earlier and make a day of it.

If you like caves and rocks, you'll find what you're looking in Hocking Hills. Old Man's Cave and Ash Cave are the two most popular spots and they do look spectacular.

The one real cave in the park, however, is the Rock House which stories claim was a favoured hideout for famous robbers and bandits over the years.

If that's not enough rocky nature for you, go on a hike to Cedar Falls or go and explore Cantwell Cliffs - just be careful as leaves and plants can obscure sharp vertical drops.

Other attractions in Hocking Hills include the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, the Paul A Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum (yep - totally serious and it's free!) or a tour of the local Hocking Hills Winery.

Kayaks and other ways to explore creeks, streams and lakes are great on hot summer days and back on dry land, you can try horseback riding, mountain bikes and even zip lines. Name your favorite outdoor activity - Hocking Hills most probably has it!

13. Bourbon tasting in Versailles, KY

1 hour 30 minutes from Cincinnati (93 miles)

We've made it as far as lucky number 13 on our list without mentioning bourbon despite plenty of day trip options into Kentucky so it's time to correct this wrong.

While many associate bourbon with southern Kentucky, Versailles is one of the best places you can come to visit the world-famous distilleries.

Woodford Reserve is a few miles north of Versailles, on the way to the state capital Frankfort. You may have tried their whiskey before, but there's a special Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked which you can only buy on the estate.

Yes - it's not a typo - it's Double Double oaked to a 90.4 proof sweet tasting whiskey which sells in small 375ml bottles.

Wild Turkey and Four Roses, which some claim to be the definitive bourbon, are also based nearby so you can pick your favorite!

Other than whiskey, the local area is also home to some of the leading horse farms - it's the bluegrass horse country after all! Some of these farms will offer tours or you can have a go at riding if you are up for it.

If the allure of bourbon makes you feel like staying the night instead of driving back to Cincinnati, the Kentucky Castle Hotel is worth trying out.

This hotel took the Versailles name to heart and created a mini version of the infamous French palace complete with turrets and a castle wall - I know it might seem a little on the kitsch side of life, but sometimes you've just got to try it, right?

14. Natural Bridge State Resort Park and the Red River Gorge, KY

2 hours 15 minutes from Cincinnati (146 miles)

The Red River Gorge is an incredibly scenic part of the Daniel Boone National Forest in eastern Kentucky. Think trees, more trees, sandstone cliffs, hills and rock arches and then add a few more trees - that's roughly what this place looks like.

The Natural Bridge State Park is centered around a unique rock formation which has produced a bridge carved out of the surrounding rock that looks a little like an elevated rail track.

There are over 20 different hikes in the area, some you simply have to do because of their names.

Fat Man's Squeeze leads down from the bridge and, as you might have guessed, it get's a little tight in places. Lover's Leap is also near the bridge and offers a good photo opportunity of the bridge itself.

Some of the hikes can get quite difficult, but lead to the top of some of the cliffs offering amazing views down into the valleys - if you're up for it the rewards are worth it.

If you are a seasoned rock climber or you want to try it out for the first time, this is one of the best places in the country with natural climbing walls all around.

If that sounds like too much hard work, there's always the option of rappelling down the rock or zip lining from the top down into the valley below.

15. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum

35 minutes from Cincinnati (30 minutes)

Pyramid Hill is only just over half an hour from downtown Cincinnati and when you get here, you'll be greeted by a landscape of rolling hills with a mix of large modern sculptures.

There are over 80 different sculptures that are spread in-between trees, hills, valleys, lakes and large open fields. The best way to explore the park is on foot but if you feel that the walk may be too long, you can hire one of the golf carts (first-come, first-served).

The sculptures range from large metal installations to carved rocks and the official position is that you are welcome to touch, but not climb on the structures, although there are some where kids are let off.

The museum within the grounds of the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park continues the line with showcasing art by local and regional artists in their gallery but adds in pieces from ancient Egyptian, Roman, Green and other civilizations.

16. Kings Island Amusement Park, OH

30 minutes from Cincinnati (23 miles)

Sometimes a day trip to an amusement park is the best way to spend the day and enjoy time together as a family and for those times, the Kings Island Amusement Park is the perfect remedy.

Located just a short drive out of the city, Kings Island is a classic and very popular theme park that has become particularly known for some of its record-breaking roller coasters.

The Racer is a classic wooden coaster that was built for the park's opening in 1972. The Beast debuted in 1979 as the fastest, longest and tallest wooden roller coaster and the Banshee is the longest inverted roller coaster in the world.

The Orion opening in April 2020 is set to become the park's flagship attraction as one of only 9 giga roller coasters in the world (defined as having a vertical drop of over 300 feet). With speeds reaching an impressive 91 mph, this is the ride you really want to try out in Kings Island.

Don't forget that Kings Island also includes the Soak City Water Park. There's pools and slides that are perfect at the peak of summer so bring your swimming gear with you!

17. Lexington, KY

1 hour 20 minutes from Cincinnati (83 miles)

Lexington is often overlooked by those looking for city breaks in favor of nearby Louisville, Indianapolis, Columbus or Nashville. A number of the day trips we've mentioned in this list pass right by Lexington and it's well worth visiting the city whether on the way somewhere or just on its own.

The self-proclaimed Horse Capital of the World, Lexington combines all the Kentucky staples - there's a few distilleries in the city itself, a number of bars where you can listen to live music.

If you want to get more of a feel for the place, come and go to Keeneland on a race day - the Kentucky Derby in Louisville may be the race that everybody has heard of, but the pros will tell you that some of the best racing and up and coming riders can be seen here in Lexington.

If you have time on your hands and want to stretch the day trip into more of a weekend, you can pop into Versailles nearby to see some of the most famous bourbon spots in the world and make stops at Big Bone Lick State Park (#7 above) and Rabbit Hash (#6) on the way down and back up to Cincinnati.

18. Carter Caves State Resort Park, KY

2 hours 15 minutes from Cincinnati (116 miles)

Carter Caves State Park is also located in eastern Kentucky, a couple hours further north than the Red River Gorge we mentioned in #14 above.

Carter Caves has over 20 caves and caverns spread through an area that is covered by forest with creeks, hills and lots of big rocks.

The caves here are not the stalactite and stalagmite type you'd find in places like the Ohio Caverns (#11 above) and more like rocky indentations into the hills where you can shelter from the elements while looking outside.

It's a beautiful place to visit, but you need to love being in a wild forest without amenities or cell signal and you need to be comfortable with hiking - the hikes here can be a little challenging and longer to get to some parts of the park so make sure you're prepared.

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Perfect 2 Days In Cleveland Itinerary: How To Spend 48 Hours In Ohio’s Underrated City

Cleveland is a city where hip meets history. It’s a vibrant and eclectic city that’s reinvented itself. Cleveland isn’t just a midwestern rust belt city anymore.

There are myriad cultural attractions of all varieties, making Cleveland the perfect weekend getaway.

Since it’s a waterfront city, you’ll even find beaches and sailing. Cleveland’s charming neighborhoods are filled with old world architecture and buzzing eateries.

Cleveland is also a booming hot spot for craft coffee shops, micro breweries, museums, and cultural entertainment.

History nerds, art lovers, and music geeks will all enjoy Cleveland.

This 2 days in Cleveland itinerary gives you a step by step plan for exploring all of Cleveland’s must visit sites, attractions, museums, and landmarks.

I also clue you in on what to see, do, and eat in Cleveland. And give you more sightseeing options, if you have extra time in Cleveland.

2 Days In Cleveland Itinerary

I’ve grouped the top attractions in Cleveland geographically, so you will move logically from one part of the city to the next without wasting time. This way, you’ll have an efficient 2 day visit to Cleveland.

Day 1 in Cleveland AM:

On day 1 of your 2 day Cleveland itinerary, you’ll explore downtown Cleveland and the neighborhoods of Ohio City and Tremont.

In the morning, you can poke around attractions in the downtown and explore the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Cleveland’s downtown is revitalized, very compact, and extremely walkable. If you want, you can book a 2 hour guided walking tour .

Start your day bright and early by fueling up at Restore Cold Pressed on Huron Street.

It’s a pretty cafe filled with plants and lit up by a beautiful teal green mural. You can choose from raw organic juices, açaí bowls, avocado toast, and other breakfast items.

2. Cleveland Arcade

Then head to the Cleveland Arcade . It’s a shopping area housed in the Hyatt Regency. It was one of the America’s first indoor shopping centers.

Built in 1890, the Arcade was modeled after the Galleria Vittorio Emmanuel in Milan Italy . It was the first building in Cleveland placed on the National Register of Historic Places.

There are many styles of architecture, from Art Nouveau to Art Deco, that converge in this decadent hall. The glass and metal atrium has a 100 foot skylight.

There are scrolling iron balconies. It’s worth walking through the two lower levels open to the public, if just to gawk.

3. Explore 4th Street

Just across from the Arcade is Cleveland’s bustling and pedestrianized thoroughfare, 4th Street. It’s smaller than you might expect, just a few short blocks with white bistro lights strung across the street.

The Cleveland House of Blues is located on East 4th Street. If you’re a music lover, be sure to check their events calendar. When I was last in Cleveland, there was a three block long line just to get in.

4. Heinen’s Supermarket

Heinen’s may be the world’s most beautiful supermarket. Think the colorful produce of Whole Foods, but set in a stunning building. Heinen’s is a place near and dear to Clevelanders’ hearts.

Heinen’s is housed in the Cleveland Trust Rotunda , a landmark building in Cleveland. Designed by George Brown Post, the building is an exquisite architectural space inspired by Greco-Roman temples.

It has a leaded glass ceiling and 13 stunning murals depicting the history of the region.

5. Public Square

Public Square marks the center of downtown Cleveland. It’s been renovated (several times) into a more park like space.

You’ll find a statue of Cleveland’s founder, New Englander Moses Cleveland, the massive Soldiers and Sailors Monument, and a fountain. The monument is dedicated to the American Civil War. If you go inside, you’ll find four bronze relief sculptures depicting battle scenes.

Public Square is ringed with some of Cleveland’s most important buildings: Terminal Tower, Key Tower, 200 Pubic Square, and City Hall.

6. World’s Largest Stamp

Right near City Hall in Willard Park is Cleveland’s giant “FREE” stamp. The massive sculpture was created by husband and wife artists Claus Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen.

Oldenburg is a well known Pop sculptor. Like his other works, this sculpture presents an everyday item on a massive scale. It’s meant to reverse the viewer/artwork dynamic, shrinking the spectator.

At 29 x 26 x 49 feet, the Free Stamp is the world’s biggest rubber stamp. It’s actually made of aluminum and steel and painted with polyurethane enamel. The word “FREE” is a nod to the nearby Soldiers and Sailors Monument.

7. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

It’s a 15+ minute walk from Public Square to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame . It’s better to walk here than drive because parking is rather scarce. The museum is pricey at $30. It’s a good idea to pre-book a ticket .

Right now, you need to reserve a time slot online. The museum is open until 9:00 pm on Thursday night.

Housed in a meandering I.M. Pei building, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is probably Cleveland’s most popular attraction. The museum traces the history of rock and roll and its greatest stars, from the early pioneers to cutting edge bands.

There is loads of memorabilia, including John Lennon’s Sargent Pepper suit and piano, Micheal Jackson’s sparkly sequined glove, Elvis Presley’s jumpsuit and a recreation of his studio, and Stevie Wonder’s harmonica. There are listening stations and various interactive exhibits too.

Day 1 in Cleveland PM:

1. ohio city neighborhood & lunch.

In the afternoon, head to Cleveland’s hippest neighborhood, Ohio City. It’s just across the Cuyahoga River from downtown, about a 7 drive. There’s metered parking on the streets.

The main drag is 25th Street, which is filled with shops, farm to table eateries, vegan fare, and breweries.

Ohio City is a fantastic place to take a guided food tour or craft brewery tour in Cleveland.

Or, you can start with lunch at either Avo Modern Mexican , The Flying Fig , or Town Hall . Avo is on 25th Street in a chic modern setting.

One block from Avo is the amazing Cleveland street art mural, located at the corner of Chatham and West 25th Street. The vintage-y mural was created by street artists Victor Ving and Lisa Beggs.

Flying Fig is an adorable bistro off of the central Market Square. Market Square is a historic square at the corner of 25th and Lorain Streets.

For dessert, check out Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream , featuring seasonal flavors from local produce. For a craft beer, stop in at Nano Brew .

2. West Side Market

You could also shop for your lunch at West Side Market , Cleveland’s 1912 landmark.

This is one of the best markets in the United States, with every culinary treat imaginable. You’ll almost feel like you’re in Europe.

You can find everything here — meats, cheeses, sandwiches, pastries, herbs, gelato — from over a 100 vendors. The market is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. So be sure to plan your visit accordingly.

If you want to take in the view of the entire market, head upstairs. The (not well marked) stairway is in a corner of the market at the intersection of Loraine and 25th Street.

The market can seem overwhelming with so many vendors. You can also book a guided food tour of the market that takes you to 15 food stalls.

3. Loraine Street

Before visiting Cleveland, I’d read that you can browse boutiques and antique shops on Loraine Street. I must confess that I was underwhelmed with Loraine Street.

But there’s one place that caught my eye, Helm Collective . This place is just loaded with adorable vintage and antique goodies.

4. Tremont Neighborhood

When you’re done wandering Ohio City, head to the adjacent Tremont neighborhood. It’s about a 30+ minute walk or 10 minute drive from Ohio City. You’ll find plenty of places to park on the street.

Tremont is a historic neighborhood filled with colorful ivy clad Victorian houses, tree-lined streets, and trendy boutiques, eateries, and galleries.

If you want to shop, head down Professor Street. There, you’ll find the cute boutiques Banyon Tree and Evie Lou .

After a stroll, you can relax in Lincoln Park, the green center of the neighborhood with plenty of benches and a charming gazebo.

Another Tremont attraction is the A Christmas Storyhouse . The interior is decorated to look like the set of the 1983 movie, which is now a holiday cult classic.

The house is fully interactive. You can try on stuff and even sit on a toilet or climb into a cabinet.

Tremont is an excellent place for dinner, with some of Cleveland’s best restaurants. Choose between Fahrenheit or Dante on Professor Street.

If you are visiting Tremont early in your day instead, there are two great breakfast spots: Grumpy’s Cafe (dive diner) and Lucky’s Cafe (brunch and pastries in a cool setting). At Lucky’s. I loved the “Shipwreck.”

Day 2 in Cleveland Itinerary, AM:

On day 2 of your Cleveland itinerary, you’ll head east to Uptown and Little Italy.

1. Little Italy

Start your day in Cleveland’s Little Italy . You can grab breakfast at Presti’s Bakery . Fresh goodies like bread, donuts, cookies, cakes, and pastries are all made by hand.

Or, even better, take a guided food tour of Little Italy.

Little Italy is located along Mayfield Avenue and Murray Hill Road. You’ll find lots of shops and eateries.

Cobbled Murray Hill is very pretty. You’ll find Italian ceramics at La Bella Vita. Further down is the cute cafe Algebra.

2. Lake View Cemetery

From Little Italy, after you’re fueled up, detour to the Lake View Cemetery . That may sound grim, but it’s quite lovely. Established in 1869, Lake View is one of the great Victorian cemeteries in the United States.

Lake View is home to the graves of Cleveland’s movers and shakers. There are two things to be sure to see there, the Garfield Monument and the Wade Memorial Chapel .

The Garfield Monument is one of the splashiest US presidential tombs. The monument is 180 feet tall, with golden mosaics and stained glass windows inside. From the balcony, you have nice views of the Cleveland skyline. Nearby is the obelisk tomb of John D. Rockfeller.

The Wade Memorial Chapel is on the National Register of Historic Places. It was built in honor of Jeptha H. Wade, a businessman and philanthropist.

The chapel was designed by the architectural firm of Hubbel & Benes, a firm responsible for some of Cleveland’s most prominent landmarks downtown.

The interior was designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The walls of the chapel are decorated with massive mosaic glass panels.

If you’re a fan of contemporary art, you should next head to MOCA , Cleveland’s Museum of Contemporary Art. It’s just a 5-10 minute walk from Little Italy.

Honestly, it’s worth a visit just for the architecture yourself. It’s a stunner both inside and outside.

The building is a stunning glass and steel jewel, with a twisting main staircase. There’s also a nice green courtyard to stop for a rest, next to a massive 7 ton hand sculpture called Judy’s Hand .

MOCA doesn’t have a permanent collection. Instead, it is an exhibition space, housing temporary exhibits on three floors. You may see established names or a new artist’s first solo show.

4. Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art is my favorite thing to do in Cleveland, an absolute highlight of the city.

It’s an amazing museum, not something you’d expect to find in northeast Ohio. And best of all, it’s absolutely free (except for special exhibitions).

The museum is well organized, with plenty of velvet covered benches if your feet grow weary. It has a globe’s worth of treasures, everything from Roman antiquities to modern art.

The first floor casts you back in time to the Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Islamic periods.

The most impressive pieces from antiquity are the Cleveland Apollo (a bronze Greek sculpture that is one of the rarest artworks in the US) and a Roman statue of Marcus Aurelius.

There’s also a beautiful collection of Greek vases. And intricate tapestries, which were originally housed in the Chateau Chaumont in the Loire Valley.

READ : Itinerary for France’s Loire Valley

There’s also a good collection of Medieval and early Renaissance art. My favorite piece was a tondo by Filippino Lippi. But there are also works by Botticelli, Fra Angelico, and Filippo Lippi.

On the second floor, you’ll find an impressive collection of French, British, and American art and furnishings from the 16th to 18th centuries. You’ll see works by Jacque-Louis David, Thomas Eakin, John Singer Sargent, and a stunning collection of Tiffany stained glass.

In the Neo-classical Gallery, you’ll find Charles Meynier’s painting cycle Apollo and the Muses .

In the East Wing, you’ll find the museum’s modern art collections. There are pieces by Picasso (the famous La Vie ), Van Gogh, Monet (a massive water lily), Degas, Matisse, and Dali. There’s quite a few pieces by the great French sculptor Auguste Rodin , including his magnificent Age of Bronze .

You can download the museum’s ArtLens App to get a preview of the museum before visiting.

You could easily spend 2-4 hours there, depending on how much art you want to consume. Since the museum is free, you can always visit multiple times to avoid museum fatigue.

5. Botanical Gardens

A mere 1000 feet from the museum, you can shake off any museum fatigue in Cleveland’s small but beautiful Botanical Gardens.

The Cleveland Botanical Gardens are a plant-science research center as well as a great thing to do in Cleveland in 2 days.

The gardens are packed with beautiful species of plants, many of which flower. It was first created in 1930 and spans over 10 acres. There’s a glasshouse that covers 18,000 square feet and 11 varying gardens outside.

These include the stunning Butterfly Gardens, the Japanese Garden, and the Inspiration Area.

Selections include 50 different bird species, 350 rare plant species, and animal species like amphibians and reptiles.

If you’re going to the theater or a concert, have dinner downtown at Adega (Mediterranean), Cibreo Italian Kitchen (Tuscan Italian), or District (American).

For pre-dinner drinks, head to the Azure Rooftop Lounge at the top of the Metropolitan on East 9th Street. Or take a craft brewery tour to check out Cleveland’s hip and trendy breweries.

If you’re not attending a show in Playhouse Square, head to Cleveland’s Lakewood neighborhood for dinner. Lakewood is known for its gorgeous waterfront homes.

But there’s a bevy of great restaurants, including Salt .

7. Playhouse Square

Playhouse Square is a regional mecca for all manner of performing arts. Its the second largest arts center in the United States. Playhouse Square is billed as the country’s largest arts venue outside NYC, with 9 theaters in a one block radius.

You’ll find traveling Broadway shows, concerts, and original local productions. The main theaters are KeyBank State Theatre and Mimi Ohio Theatre.

Playhouse Square is also home to the world’s largest outdoor chandelier. At nighttime, it’s beautifully lit up. The easiest place to park, though not cheap, is the designated parking garage for Playhouse Square.

8. Cleveland Indians/Gardians

If you’re into baseball more than theater, head to Progressive Field to see a Cleveland Indians game. Soon to be the Cleveland Guardians, they play in a clean ballpark with great sight lines.

More Than 2 Days In Cleveland?

Do you have extra time to spend in Cleveland beyond this two day in Cleveland itinerary? If so, here some of the other best things to do and see in Cleveland.

1. Lake Erie Waterfront

There’s plenty to do on Cleveland’s Lake Erie Waterfront. You can rent a kayak, jet ski, or paddleboat.

It’s also a great place to plunk down for locally brewed beers or seafood cuisine at a waterfront restaurant. Try Alley Cat Oyster Bar for lobster rolls and, of course, oysters.

2. Cleveland Orchestra

The Cleveland Orchestra is one of the best in the United States. It performs in the University Circle area in uptown in Severance Hall . The opulent concert hall is one of the most beautiful in the United States. It’s nicknamed Cleveland’s Taj Mahal.

You should purchase tickets in advance. There’s parking onsite.

3. Edgewater Park

This lovely green space in Cleveland is only a 10 minute drive from downtown. It has the only real beach to enjoy in the area, open from mid June to mid August.

You can run, bike, swim, or just relax. The Edgewater Beach House is a multi-functional space with concession stands and a bar.

4. Terminal Tower Observation Deck

Do you like views? If so, the Terminal Tower Observation Deck offers great views of downtown Cleveland, the lakefront, and the surrounding Cuyahoga River Valley.

The tower has also been featured in many movies, such as The Avengers . The tower was once one of the largest buildings in the United States, a milestone in skyscraper architecture.

The observation deck is only open on afternoon weekend. You can buy tickets online here. Or purchase them at the information desk.

5. Great Lakes Science Center

Science geeks should head to the Great Lakes Science Center . It’s a museum and educational facility that makes science and technology come to life.

There are interactive exhibits, a theater, and a NASA space center. You can also step aboard the Steamship William G. Mother.

6. Gordon Arts Square

Gordon Arts Square is a quirky up and coming neighborhood. You’ll find vintage and artisan shops, boutiques, and three theaters.

The best thing to do in Gordon Arts Square is hit up Brewnuts . You need to go early before they sell out. Expect a line.

Brewnuts is a sunlit combo shop specializing in craft beer based donuts. The shop has different flavors every day. You can check out the goods on Brewnuts’ Instagram account.

If you’d like something less caloric, head to Blue Habanero , for street tacos and margaritas. Or grab brunch at Luxe Kitchen & Lounge .

Tips For Spending 2 Days In Cleveland

1. where to stay in cleveland.

On this visit, I stayed at the Kimpton Schofield , a historic boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Cleveland.

Kimpton hotels aren’t sterile like your standard generic hotel. They have personality, cool decor, and complimentary wine during happy hour every day.

The hotel is in an excellent location: downtown Cleveland, steps away from the Arcade and 4th Street. It’s about a 20 minute walk to the waterfront and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Another cool place is Metropolitan at the 9 . It’s a hotel with a touch of bling located in the striking Cleveland Trust Building. The hotel is unique because it has an indoor dog park called Bark and a yoga studio.

If you want a more luxe hotel in Cleveland, head to the Ritz-Carlton Cleveland or the Four Seasons . You can also try a reliable standby like the Hilton Cleveland Downtown .

2. Driving & Parking in Cleveland

Cleveland is shockingly easy to drive in. The downtown is eminently walkable. But it’s easy to drive to the surrounding neighborhoods or uptown.

Parking downtown is a pain though. If you’re staying at a hotel downtown, you’ll be socked with a hefty overnight parking charge.

Elsewhere in Cleveland, you can find metered parking. Or, there’s street parking.

The only place I found difficult to park was on Euclid Avenue uptown and in Little Italy. But I eventually found spots to park.

3. How To Get To Cleveland

You can fly to Cleveland. The Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is 12 miles from downtown. The Cleveland Amtrak Station is also located downtown.

Cleveland is near quite a few other cities. You can easily drive from Pittsburgh, Columbus, Akron, Detroit, or Toledo.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 2 days in Cleveland itinerary. You may enjoy these other United States travel guides:

• 25 most beautiful towns in New England
• 3 day itinerary for Boston
• 2 day Washington DC itinerary
• 2 day Philadelphia itinerary
• 35 Landmarks in Boston
• 1 day itinerary for Cambridge
• 10 day itinerary for New Hampshire
• Best Places To Visit in the Berkshires
• 10 day itinerary for coastal Maine
• 1 day itinerary for Portland Maine
• 7-10 day itinerary for Vermont
• Fall foliage road trip in New England

If you’d like to spend 2 days in Cleveland Ohio, pin it for later.

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Last Updated on January 17, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

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Columbus on the Cheap

Good, Cheap, Fun

42+ Best Spots with Trains in Ohio: Museums, Riding, Dining, and even sleeping!

For railfans, Ohio is nothing short of paradise. Opportunities to experience life on the rails can be found all over the state. There are so many fun places to check out featuring trains in Ohio for all ages! 

Dennison Railroad Museum

Whether you want to learn about rail history, hop aboard a historic passenger train, enjoy a meal, sleep in a caboose, or just sit and watch the trains roll by – Ohio has you covered.

Check out this custom Google Map to see the location of each destination described below (find the interactive map at the end of the article too!)

Looking to stick local? our guest writer Deb also put together this awesome article about the best displays and train spots in Columbus !

All Aboard! Best Displays and Train Spots in Columbus

Railroad Museums in Ohio

The Buckeye state played an important role in rail history and still has one of the most concentrated networks of active track in the nation. Each of these museums shares it’s own unique piece of the story.

Dennison Railroad Depot Museum 

Age of steam roundhouse.

Whether you’re a railroad historian, enthusiast, or Thomas the Train lover, the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum is a must see. Built along the Ohio Central Railroad main line is a fully functional 18 stall roundhouse surrounding a 115-foot working turntable.

The museum offers the largest private collection of steam locomotives in the world, along with passenger & freight cars, cabooses, and work equipment. Visitors can also see a set of storage tracks, a store house, coal dock, wood water tank, and ash pit.

It is a working site where experts are actively restoring historical equipment. Visitors are required to visit as part of a guided tour. Advanced reservations are required. All tours are ADA accessible.

Guided roundhouse tours are offered April – November , Thursday – Saturday at 10 a.m., 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets cost $20 (adults), $17 (seniors 65+) and veterans, $12 (youth 3-16), FREE (2 & under). June – August , additional family tours will be offered on Fridays & Saturdays.

For the serious train enthusiast, several special events, speaker series, and in-depth tours are available beginning in February . Ticket price varies depending on event.

The Age of Steam Roundhouse is located at 213 Smokey Lane Rd SW, Sugarcreek, OH 44681. 

Bradford Railroad Museum

The Bradford Railroad Museum looks back at its history as a railroad town along the Pennsylvania RR. Although the railroad no longer runs through town, the museum has preserved some important pieces of history for visitors.

The interactive museum shares the town’s history, the Railway YMCA, hobo exhibit, dining car, and an interactive telegraph display. There is a children’s play area and a model railway to depict how the PRR station once looked in Bradford. Just a few blocks away, a restored BF Tower (switching station) is available for guests to tour.

Don’t miss the Bradford Railroad Heritage Festival on September 10, 2023 . This family friendly event will include music, model train layouts, Thomas the Train ride for kids, drone races, and more! Follow the website for more information to come.

The museum is located at 200 North Miami Ave., Bradford, Ohio 45308. It is open March – December , every Saturday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Admission is $10 (adults 21 & over), Free (under 21y).

Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal

Although not a museum focused on trains, rail enthusiasts should still put this high on their bucket list.  Union Terminal , opened in 1933, operated as passenger terminal for many years. It is a stunning art deco building with the largest half-dome in the western hemisphere.

Today the terminal houses three fantastic museums for visitors to enjoy: Cincinnati History Museum, The Children’s Museum, the Museum of Natural History & Science.

While there are no dedicated exhibits related to its history, the museum center offers volunteer-led behind the scenes tour of Union Terminal.

Tours are scheduled on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and Sunday from 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. (pending volunteer availability). No reservations required. Tours are free. Be sure to call & confirm before visiting (513)287-7000.

Find more fun in Cincinnati here.

As American forces were mobilizing in response to WWII, trains carrying 600-800 servicemen would traverse the country. The Salvation Army Serviceman’s Canteen located in Dennison served as a primary stop where they could receive a hot meal and moral support.

The Depot, with the help of nearly 4,000 civilian volunteers, touched the lives of more than 1.3 million service members during WWII. The Dennison Depot became a place where they could get a small taste of home, earning it the nickname “Dreamsville, USA” .

Originally the third largest Canteen in the US, the Depot has been meticulously restored. Explore the museum which includes exhibits, a theater and gift shop. There are several attached railroad cars with special exhibits, including a children’s interactive experience, WWII hospital car, a research archive, and more.

The Dennison Railroad Depot Museum is located at 400 Center St., Dennison, OH 44621. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m – 3 p.m. Admission is $8 (adults), $6 (seniors/students), $4 (youth 7-17), and free (6 & under).

Ernest Warther Museum

It all started with a pocketknife found along a dirt road as a young boy. Ernest “Mooney” Warther spent the next 82 years of his life whittling, ultimately becoming known as a master carver.

His most famous hand-sculpted works focused on steam engines, carved from ebony and ivory, each one made precisely to its original blueprint.

Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens

The Ernest Warther Museum & Garden is located on the original property of the Warther’s home and workshop.

Take a self-guided tour of the Warther home and the button museum, a beautiful display of Freida’s (Warther’s wife) button collection. Families will enjoy the gardens which include train cars and the “cave”, a secret play place for children to explore.

The highlight is a 1-hour guided tour of the museum to learn more about Mr. Warther, see his carvings, and learn the stories behind his amazing collection of work.

Tours start at 10 a.m., 12 p.m. & 2 p.m. Tours are included in the cost of admission. Self-guided tours are available anytime during regular hours.

The museum is located at 331 Karl Avenue, Dover, OH 44622. January – February , daily from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. March – December , daily from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is $18 (adults), $17 (seniors), $8 (students 12-17), $6 (youth 4-11), and Free (3 & under).

Read about more fun places to visit in Dover and Tuscarawas County !

Jefferson Depot Village

Tucked away in Ashtabula County, the Jefferson Depot Village is a realistic representation of small town living in the 19 th century. The restored 1872 Lake Short & Michigan Southern Railroad Station serves as the anchor for this living history museum.

Take a guided walking tour through the village and the 1872 train station, climb aboard the 1918 PRR Caboose. Attend a special event and interact with volunteers dressed in period attire as you experience life in the 1890s.

The village is located at 147 E. Jefferson St., Jefferson, OH 44047. Guided tours are available June – September , Monday/Thursday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday/Sunday from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Admission is free, with a requested donation of $10/person.

Mad River & NKP Railroad Museum

Whether you’re a hardcore enthusiast or just curious, the Mad River & NKP Railroad Museum has you covered. This museum honors the Mad River & Lake Erie RR, the first railroad chartered in Ohio, and the Nickel Plate Road which ran through Bellevue from 1882 until 1964.

Bellevue served as the largest classification terminal, principle icing station, steam and diesel engine terminal, and more. The museum includes everything from historic documents of train operations to the fine place settings used on luxury passenger cars.

An incredible collection of trains are on display including steam and diesel locomotives, passenger cars, a V-blade snowplow, the first domed passenger car built in the U.S., and many, many more.

The best part about this museum is that it’s interactive, both inside and out. It’s a great place for anyone who likes to explore. Board the trains located in the new three-track coach yard. Explore, touch, and imagine being part of rail history.

Railfans should make the short commute to nearby Kemper Rail Park . Take a picnic, have a seat on the raised platform, and spend some time watching the trains roll by.

The museum is located at 253 Southwest St., Bellevue, OH 44811. It is open from Memorial Day – Labor Day from 12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. Special hours available May, September & October . Admission is $10 (adults), $9 (seniors), and $5 (youth 5-12).

Marion Union Station

Only an hour from Columbus, the Marion Union Station is a must stop for enthusiasts. It has a storied history from a canteen stop during WWII to the final stop in President Harding’s funeral procession.

Perhaps one of the most unique features is the location between two diamond crossovers, where up to 60 trains still pass by daily. It’s a popular location for railfans to watch the trains from multiple viewpoints.

In addition to beautiful architecture, the museum houses an impressive collection of memorabilia, plus an AC Tower, and Erie Lackawanna caboose. Railroad historians will enjoy the large collection of interlocking and switch panels, and functioning status lights and signals.

The station is located at 532 W Center St, Marion, OH 43302. It is open every Saturday from 10 a.m – 2 p.m. Some weekday hours are available, when there are volunteers, so call ahead to confirm.

Northern Ohio Railroad Museum

Relive the interurban rail era at the Northern Ohio Railroad Museum . This educational and restoration-based museum is run by volunteers who are passionate about preserving the history of streetcars and interurbans in Ohio.

Learn about Ohio’s electric rail history, walk through the workshop to see the work in progress, climb into many of the cars on display, and visit the education center. Guided tours are available from 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. during business hours.

Put history in motion with a streetcar ride from June – September on the 2 nd & 4 th Saturdays. Rides run on the hour from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cost is $5 (adults 13 & up) and $2 (youth 6-12), Free (5 & under).

The museum is located at 5515 Buffham Rd, Seville, OH 44237. It is open from the end of May – September , every Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Check the website for specific dates. Admission is free, although donations are greatly appreciated.

Ride the Rails on these Trains in Ohio

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Cincinnati dinner train.

Step back to the 1940s with an evening on the Cincinnati Dinner Train . Seated in one of four 1940s era dining cars, enjoy the sights of the city from your window during a 3+ hour round-trip excursion to the Cincinnati Riverfront.

Dress in your best period attire and enjoy a delicious four course meal. Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-free options are available upon request. Period entertainment is provided during the trip. Business casual attire is strictly enforced.

Ever wondered what goes on in the locomotive? Get a front row seat with a Locomotive Cab Ride . Spend the first half of the trip enjoying dinner. Then suit up and join the train’s engineer and conductor on the twelve-mile return trip. (Minimum age is 21)

The Cincinnati Dinner Train departs from 2172 East Seymour Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45237. Excursions are offered from March – December . Days and times vary depending on the season and event, so be sure to check the website for details.

Hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for family fun on the rails. Travel through scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park with beautiful views in every season of the year. 

The CVSR offers something for everyone! Check out the links below for full details, current dates & times, and to purchase tickets.

• National Park Scenic – Enjoy a 2.5-hour round trip train ride through the park.
• Family Fun Loop – Bring the kids on a 1.5-hour round trip adventure with superheroes, princesses, music, crafts, animals and more.
• Cleveland Dinner & Event – Planning a date night has never been easier! Choose your favorite theme from a romantic dinner, murder mystery, beverage tours, painting, trivia, and more.
• Explorer – Want to spend a day or two hiking, biking, or kayaking in the park? Bring your gear and hop aboard for a $5 one-way ride from any of the eight stations along the route.
• Special Events – Be on the lookout for special events throughout the year, including Hale Farm Explorer, The Polar Express, Caboose Train Ride, and more!

The Cuyahoga Valley National Railroad offers various excursions year-round. Days and times vary depending on the season and event, so be sure to check the website for details. Passengers may choose to board at one of three stations:

• Rockside Station – 7900 Old Rockside Rd, Independence, OH 44131
• Peninsula Depot – 1630 Mill St., Peninsula, OH 44264
• Akron Northside Station – 27 Ridge St., Akron, OH 44308

Hocking Valley Scenic Railway

If you’re planning a trip to Hocking Hills, include a fun excursion with the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway . Climb aboard for a 2-hour ride through the heart of the Hocking River Valley along part of the 145-year-old route linking Southern Ohio to Columbus and Lake Erie.

Choose from a variety of options, such as scenic rides, Valentine train, dinner trains, murder mysteries, a friendly train robbery, and more. Passengers may choose between open-air cars or climate controlled enclosed cars.

The Hocking Valley Scenic Railroad departs from 33 W Canal St, Nelsonville, OH 45764. Special excursions are offered year-round. Days and times vary depending on the season and event, so be sure to check the website for details.

Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad 

Lebanon Ohio is a town taken right out of a Norman Rockwell painting. Enjoying a ride on the Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad is a highlight for any visit. Located just off N. Broadway St, the station is an easy walk from anywhere in town.

LM&M Railroad Christmas Train

Operated by the Cincinnati Scenic Railway, LMMR offers family-friendly train rides in beautifully restored train cars including the GP7 #5704, the oldest continuously operated locomotive of its kind in the US.

The route takes passengers on a nine-mile journey through Warren County and follows along Turtle Creek, including a large truss bridge.

Each year, they offer loads of family fun through interactive kid-themed excursions. Step aboard with a popular book or movie character or dress up as a favorite princess or superhero. For adults, they also offer evening excursions, such as wine and cheese, pizza and beer, plus more.

The Lebanon Mason and Monroe Railroad departs from 16 E. South St, Lebanon, OH 45036. Excursions are offered from April – December . Days and times vary depending on the season and event, so be sure to check the website for details.

Lorain and West Virginia Railway 

Spend a lazy afternoon riding the rails with the Lorain and West Virginia Railway . Comfortably seated in an open gondola or air-controlled Pullman car, sit back, and relax as the 1950 E-8A red engine takes you on a ten-mile round trip journey through Lorain County.

Each year, they offer a full line up of family friendly excursions. The Easter Train and Pumpkin Train allow passengers to disembark for fun activities along the way. A few great options for adult outings are Sweetest Day, Fall Foliage, or Wine on the Rails.

The Lorain and West Virginia Railway departs from 46789 State Route 18, Wellington, OH 44090 . Excursions are offered from April – December . Days and times vary depending on the season and event, so be sure to check the website for details.

Ohio Rail Experience

For anyone interested in an extended rail trip across Ohio, the Ohio Rail Experience is for you! Operated by the Cincinnati Scenic Railway, ORE excursions travel on tracks that are not commonly, if ever, used by passenger trains.

Hop aboard vintage 1930-1950 railcars pulled by a historic diesel electric locomotive and enjoy this unique adventure. Excursions last up to 10 hours and offer a layover point where passengers may disembark and explore town, grab lunch, or visit a local historical site.

Each year’s trip(s) boarding location and itinerary is unique. Trips for 2023 have been canceled due to some refurbishment projects, but they’ll be back in 2024 . Check the website for updated information.

Orrville Railroad Heritage Society

For over 100 years, the Union Depot served as a passenger terminal for the Pennsylvania Railroad. The Orrville Railroad Heritage Society has preserved the property, including the original Interlocking Tower and a Block Station “Shale” from Summit, OH.

Enjoy a 40-minute ride in an open-air car or red caboose. Ever heard of a motor car, or “speeder”? They were used to transport material and track workers to remote areas along the line. Bring the kids and take a 15-min ride on the annual Motor Car Day.

Want some “throttle time” in a EMD GP7u locomotive? Schedule a private hour-long session where you can learn about the locomotive and spend 30-min in the engineer’s seat. You can even bring up to eight guests to ride in the caboose, for FREE!

The Orrville Union Depot Museum is located at 145 Depot St, Orrville, OH 44667. It’s important to note that all trains depart from the DABO/ORHS rail yard located at 2174 S. Crownhill Rd., Orrville, OH 44667. Excursions are offered from May – October . Days and times vary depending on the season and event, so be sure to check the website for details.

Toledo, Lake Erie, and Western Railway & Museum

The volunteers at the Toledo, Lake Erie, and Western Railway & Museum operate on ten miles of track, crossing the Maumee River bridge, between Waterville and Grand Rapids, Ohio. They offer rides on the Bluebird Passenger Train and host various special events throughout the year, including the popular Motor Car Rally.

Planned for 2023! A fully renovated passenger cart that is ADA accessible with a chair lift! It will hold 4 wheelchairs plus an attendant for each, to give everyone the experience riding the rails and enjoy the view across Maumee River bridge.

The TLEW Railway & Museum is located at 7475 Saylor Ln., Grand Rapids, Ohio 43522. It is open to the public from June – October , every 1 st & 3 rd Saturday from Noon – 4 p.m.

Zanesville and Western Scenic Railroad

Take an old-fashioned train ride along the Glass Rock Spur, with the Zanesville and Western Scenic Railroad . The 40-minute ride takes passengers through the southeastern Ohio countryside in either an open-air gondola car or a traditional enclosed coach.

Enjoy a scenic rail excursion or choose from several special events, such as Hobo Camp, Pumpkin Train, Santa Train, Grassman Weekend, and Scouts Weekend (free ride for any Scout in uniform).

The Zanesville and Western Scenic Railroad departs from 5715 SR-204, Mt. Perry, OH 43760. Excursions are offered every Saturday and Sunday from August – December . Times vary depending per event, so be sure to check the website for details.

The Polar Express

We all know the story of the Polar Express, right? Every holiday season, kids and grownups alike are mesmerized by Billy’s magical journey to the North Pole aboard the Polar Express. Did you know there is one officially licensed Polar Express ride right here in Ohio?

At the Dennison Depot , passengers can climb aboard the holiday train, listen to the famed story, and enjoy hot cocoa and refreshments on the way to the North Pole, where Santa will climb aboard to greet everyone and provide a special gift.

Can’t make it to the Dennison Depot?  No worries! Train stations all over Ohio provide an opportunity for passengers to put on their favorite pajamas and fuzzy slippers and experience their own Christmas or Holiday themed adventure.

These events are very popular and often sell out months in advance , so make plans early.

Polar Express Train Ride Ohio (Dennison)  | The North Pole Adventure (Cuyahoga Valley)  | Santa Train Ride (Hocking Hills)   | Letters to Santa (Ohio Railway Museum) | North Pole Express (Lebanon ) | Christmas at the Depot (Orrville) | Santa Train (Lorain & WV) | Santa Train (Zanesville & Western)

Read more about Santa Trains, Polar Express, and Christmas Trains here – they start booking in the Summer!

Model Trains in Ohio

Trains chugging along the tracks of a model railroad is mesmerizing. Following along as they pass by scenes of daily life, whether whimsical or reminiscent, transports all of us back to childhood. Check out these amazing displays located all around the state.

Buckeye Imagination Museum

Only a short drive from Columbus, the Buckeye Imagination Museum is a great place for kids (ages 2-10) to let their imaginations soar. Kids can explore the arts, sciences, and transportation.

The Train Exhibit features a model railroad for little conductors to enjoy, a hands-on play area with Thomas the Train, and more great railroad fun.

They’ve remodeled since we visit in 2019, so there are even more attractions and fun to explore (and even more coming soon!)

The museum is located at 175 W 3rd St, Mansfield, OH 44902. Regular hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. ( April 1 – November 30 ) and Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. ( December 1 – March 31 ). Admission is $14 per person (ages 2 & up). Check holiday hours and admission discounts here .

Read more about fun, family things to do in Mansfield and Bellville .

Corner Field Model Railroad Museum & Trading Post 

Tucked away in Geauga County is an amazing family owned, 3-rail layout with over 7,000 feet of track. Delight in the 32ft x145ft, freelance style layout with thousands of buildings and scenes, along with 250+ types of engines.

Relive the past 70 years of rail history with a tour through NE Ohio landmarks, industry, daily life and so much more!

Hobbyists and collectors will be thrilled with the full-service Trading Post, specializing in Lionel Trains. Buy & sell trains or purchase items for your family’s own railroad layout.

The Corner Field Model Railroad Museum and Trading Post is located at 16720 Pioneer Road, Middlefield, OH 44062. It is open Wed/Fri/Sat from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Thur/Sun from 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. Admission is $10 (adults), $8 (seniors), $5 (youth 4-12), and Free (3 & under).

EnterTRAINment Junction

If family entertainment is what you’re looking for, then EnterTRAINment Junction is the place. It’s a high energy, train- riffic place for both the young and young at heart.

The highlight is the 25,000 sq.ft. model train display with 90 G-scale trains rambling along 2 miles of track. The world’s largest train display right here in Ohio! The journey through railroad history begins in the 1860s and winds through time to modern transportation.

The model train is reason enough to visit, but they also have other railroad themed activities. There’s a 5,000 sq.ft. interactive American Railroad Museum to share the history of train travel and how it helped shape America. Kids will enjoy Imagination Junction with plenty of activities for little hands.

Got a Thomas the Engine fan? During February , the junction is celebrating “ Everything Thomas” . Have fun with the Sodor crew with special activities, look for Thomas in the model layout, and take a ride with Thomas on an indoor train ride.

June through Labor Day , young railfans can ride on the outdoor narrow-gauge train pulled by an electric locomotive. For more of a challenge, they can act as their own engineer and give the hand-cranked Kid’s Express a try.

EnterTRAINment Junction is located at 7379 Squire Court, West Chester, OH 45069. Regular hours Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Sunday from Noon – 6 p.m. Check the website for special holidays and closings.

Highfield Discovery Garden

Highfield Discovery Garden is located inside Glenwood Gardens , a 335-acre park with wetlands, forests, and formal gardens.

Kids are invited to explore nature as they journey through seven unique gardens. The Trolley Garden has four small scale trains that embark on an imaginative trip with favorite storybook characters.

Glenwood Gardens is located at 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, Ohio 45215. Open hours at Highfield Discovery Garden change depending on the season, so be sure to check the website for details.

Historic Clifton Mill

Built in 1802, the Historic Clifton Mill is one of the largest water-powered grist mills in the U.S. The mill is nestled into the Clifton Gorge right next to John Bryan State Park. Family owned and operated, it is still in operation today and welcomes visitors & hikers to stop in for free tours, great scenery, and a delicious meal at the restaurant.

The Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill is a spectacular Christmas event with over 4 million lights adorning the mill, covered bridge, trees, and riverbanks. For rail fans, the enormous outdoor model railroad may just steal the show. Enjoy the trip down memory lane with scenes from the area’s rich history, landmarks of old, and everyday life. Oh, and where else outside of Ohio Stadium can you see a perfectly performed Script Ohio?

Clifton Millis located at 75 Water St, Clifton, OH 45316. The Christmas event, which includes the model railroad, begins November 23 rd , 2023 . It’s open nightly from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. (gates open at 5 p.m.) Monday through Wednesday, admission is $10 per person. Thursday through Sunday admission is $15 per person. Age 3 & under are FREE.

Krohn Conservatory 

With over 3,500 plant species, there’s always something in bloom at Krohn Conservatory . A special treat is the various trains that ramble along tracks nestled within some of the displays, including the popular Lady Bug train.

Be sure to add this destination to your family’s Christmas tradition too. The spectacular holiday show, including multilevel trains displays, is not to be missed!

Krohn’s Conservatory is located at 1501 Eden Park Dr. Cincinnati, OH 45202. It is open daily from 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Admission is $10 (adults), $7 (youth 5-17) and free (4 & under).

Ride the Miniature Rails

Looking for a pint size rail experience for kids and kids at heart? Try one of these fun miniature train rides offered by various rail enthusiast clubs around Ohio.

Carillon Historical Park

Plan a day trip to Dayton to immerse yourself in its rich transportation history. Carillon Historical Park offers a 65-acre open-air history museum. Visit the historic 1894 Bowing Green Station, the B&O #1 John Quincy Adams, a wooden parlor car, and an Interurban car.

Take a ride on a 1/8 scale miniature railroad operated by the Carillon Park Rail & Steam Society . All rides are free, with paid park admission. Trains run April – October on select Saturdays from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Be sure to check their website for details. Additional dates & times may be available during special programs or festivals (entrance fee required).

The Carillon Park Rail Festival is scheduled for June 24 th from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. and June 25 th from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Enjoy a fun family event with model trains and minature train rides, plus other displays, activities, and vendors.

Planned for 2023! Board a full-size electric powered replica of the “Cincinnati” for a one-mile narrated journey around Carillon Historical Park. As the first locomotive to pull a passenger train into Dayton in 1851, the “Cincinnati” has a special place in the city’s early rail history.

Carillon Park is located at 1000 Carillon Blvd, Dayton, OH 45409. Regular hours are Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday Noon – 5:00 p.m. Admission is $14 (adult), $12 (seniors 60+), $10 (youth 3-17) and Free (2 & under). Dayton History members are free.

Eagle Point 

The Community Foundation Preserve at Eagle Point is a popular stop for hiking, birding, and water recreation. The Erie Metro Live Steamers offer rides on their 1/8 scale miniature trains at Eagle Point. Roll through the meadows and woodlands along 9,000 feet of track.

Eagle Point is located at 3819 Cleveland Rd W, Sandusky, OH 44870. Trains run May – October on selected dates from 10 a.m – Noon (unless otherwise noted). Be sure to check their website for details. All rides are free.

Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation

The Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation is a unique group that focuses on sharing the importance and impact of railroading through multiple train styles, including full scale, ¼ scale, and model railroads. In addition to a museum and gift shop, they offer a full schedule of community events.

Celebrate Family Fun Days with crafts, bounce houses, and of course, ¼ scale train rides! Add a spark to your holidays with the Easter Egg Hunt, Pumpkin Fest, Halloween Express, Trick or Treat Train and more! Adults should check out the Findlay Craft Beer and Wine Fest or Tracks to the Past Antique Machinery Show.

The Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation is located at 12505 C.R. 99, Findlay, OH 45840. Trains run from March – December . Days and times vary depending on the season and event, so be sure to check the website for details.

Penitentiary Glenn Reservation

Spend a day at Penitentiary Glenn Reservation where you can visit the nature center, hike the trails, meander through the gardens, or enjoy a steam-powered miniature train ride on the Glen Meadow and Orchard Railroad.

Take a scenic and fun ride through the woods and orchards courtesy of the Lake Shore Live Steamers Club .

Penitentiary Glenn Reservation is located at 8668 Kirtland Chardon Rd, Kirtland, OH 44094. Trains run April – December on select Saturdays from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Be sure to check their website for details. All rides are free. Additional dates/times may be included with special programs offered by the park ( http://www.lakemetroparks.com ).

Lions, tigers and bears, oh MY! Visiting a local zoo is at the top of the list for a fun family outing. No matter which Ohio zoo is your family’s favorite, they each offer a unique rail experience for riders of all ages. Hop aboard and get a chance to view animals from a new perspective.

Columbus Zoo – Tiny Town Train ($1/rider) & North American Train ($2/rider)

Cincinnati Zoo – Safari Train ($4/rider)

Akron Zoo – Pride of Africa Train Depot ($3/rider)

Toledo Zoo – Safari Train ($3/rider)

Cleveland Metroparks Zoo – Boomerang Train ($3 non-member, $2.75 member)

Amusement Parks

For many families, spending a day or two in an amusement park is a summertime treat. We have two of the best in Ohio, and they both offer fun train rides for all visitors.

Cedar Point – Cedar Point and Lake Erie Railroad

All aboard! This coal-fired steam train is a rare find, and one of only a few operated in a park. Enjoy a two-mile trip around Boneville where you will be entertained with light-hearted reenactments of the American frontier.

Cedar Point – Guest Conductor

The CP&LE Railroad is always looking for guest conductors! Put on your conductor’s hat and pin (complimentary) and take a seat in the lead passenger car. Get ready to ring the conductor’s bell along the train’s route. For more details, stop by the Train Depot at Celebration Plaza or FrontierTown.

Cedar Point – Snoopy’s Express Railroad

Join Woodstock on a trip through the exciting world of Planet Snoopy. It’s a great way to check out all the fun awaiting your smallest thrill seeker(s), even before you get started.

Kings Island – K.I. & Miami Valley Railroad

Take a ride on “The General”, a scale replica of a famous 1800s steam locomotive from the American Civil War. Two trains are available to transport passengers on this 9 to 15-minute ride.

image: Kings Island

Kings Island – Snoopy’s Junction

Little railfans will be excited to join Conductor Snoopy and his pal Woodstock on a trip through Camp Snoopy. Hang out with the whole Peanuts™ gang on this kid size train and be on the lookout for some of Snoopy’s Barnyard Friends along the way.

Train Themed Restaurants

Good food speaks to everyone, and Ohio has some really good food. The next time you decide to head out for a meal, surprise the family with a trip to one of these fun train themed restaurants.

Berea Union Depot Restaurant

If track side dining perks your interest, look no further than the Berea Union Depot. Recognized by the Ohio Historical Society, the depot was built in 1876 and served passengers in northeast Ohio until 1958.

Diners are greeted with 19 th century charm through the preservation of many original features. Not to mention, the likely rumble of a train rolling down the tracks just outside the windows. A full menu is available with a variety of items from casual to sophisticated, plus local craft beers.

The Berea Union Depot Restaurant is located at 30 Depot St., Berea, OH 44017. It is open Tuesday through Sunday, starting at 11 a.m. Live music is available on the patio most Saturdays from 5 p.m. – 8 p.m. (weather permitting)

Buckeye Express Diner

This historic locomotive and bright red dining car perched on the hillside along Interstate 71 near Belleville is an eye catcher.

A stop here for a casual lunch or dinner is a treat, especially for train enthusiasts both young and old. The kids can even burn off some energy in the outdoor themed play areas.

Buckeye Express Cafe

Place your order at the front counter before selecting a seat in the Buckeye themed dining car. Although known for their large hand-made burgers, the menu offers a nice range of additional sandwiches, subs, wraps, and sides.

The Buckeye Express Diner is located at 810 State Route 97 W Bellville, Ohio 44813 (Exit 165). It is open daily from 11 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Lindenwald Station Family Diner

A small family restaurant with a BIG love for trains. This local eatery sports a lot of rail photos and memorabilia, plus a model train that encircles the restaurant along the ceiling.

Lindenwald Station is located at 5072 Pleasant Ave, Fairfield, OH. It is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. – 2 p.m., Saturday from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Overnight Lodging on a Train

Sleeping in a train car usually requires embarking on a cross-country trip. Luckily, there are a few places around Ohio where train enthusiasts can spend a night in a train without leaving the state.

The Hocking Hills Caboose

Spend the night in a 1950s red caboose in beautiful Hocking Hills, only two miles from Ash Cave. This unique lodging is in a private setting, perfect for a relaxing getaway in one of Ohio’s most popular destinations.

The restored caboose can sleep up to 5 guests on single bunks. It is well appointed with heat and AC, a kitchenette, full private bath, large deck with outdoor grill, and fire pit.

It is located at 24830 OH-56, South Bloomingville, OH 43152. A two-night minimum stay is required. For more information or to make a reservation check here .

The Pullman Bed and Breakfast

Ohio’s newest train lodging is also perhaps its most authentic, the Pullman Bed & Breakfast, opened in 2022 as part of the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum. The 1920s-era Pullman sleeping car, known as the Times Square Coach, was a gift from the Ohio Railway Museum right here in Columbus.

It has been painstakingly restored to its original glory and is now available for overnight guests. Quarters are tight and beds are small, but that’s what provides the authentic experience of sleeping in a Pullman. Well, that and the occasional train passing by on the nearby tracks.

The sleeping car includes five rooms, made up of both single and double compartments. Each compartment has a hand sink, WiFi and television, but bathrooms are shared amongst all. Breakfast is included.

The Pullman Bed & Breakfast is located at 400 Center Street, Dennison, OH 44621. For more information or to make a reservation check here .

Sugarcreek Village Inn – Victoria Station

Sugarcreek Village Inn offers a variety of lodging options, from traditional to unique, right in the heart of Ohio’s Amish country. Train enthusiasts might enjoy reserving a room across the street at Victoria Station.

Two authentic railroad cars are located across the tracks from the main inn. There are three modern guest rooms with private baths available in each car. The occasional train passing by on the tracks makes for an authentic lodging experience!

Victoria Station is located at 206 Factory Street SE, Sugarcreek, OH 44681. For more information or to make a reservation check here .

Festivals and Shows featuring trains in Ohio

Check these websites for information on 2023 festivals and shows around Ohio.

https://consumershows.com/model-train-shows/ohio

https://www.trainshow.com/show-schedule

Looking for more trains in Ohio?

Want to stay local to Columbus? Check out this big list of train spots in Columbus !

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30 Awesome Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

We share our best day trips from Cincinnati to help inspire your next adventure.

Whether you are looking for a quick family getaway or a couples retreat, we have come up with various day trips from Cincinnati that are only two hours away or less.  From going on safari to unique ways to cool off during the summer, we have the perfect adventure to put on your bucket list.

These great destinations make great day trips or even weekend getaways from Cincinnati. It’s time to get off the bucket list because you will be adding a few of these immediately. This page contains affiliate links.

30 Top Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

Get behind the wheel of a race car during the rusty wallace racing experience.

If you are hunting for an exhilarating adrenaline-pumping experience, sign up for the Rusty Wallace Racing Experience at the Lucas Oil Raceway in Hendricks County, Indiana.  This is one of the few experiences that let you drive in a racecar unattended.

That is correct, after taking an hour course on safety and driving, you suit up and get behind the wheel of an actual racecar without an instructor.  This once-in-a-lifetime experience will have you white-knuckled as your approach upwards of 155 MPH.

For those not quite ready to take on the track along, they do offer a ride-along where you get zipped along the track by a professional driver.

Go On A Safari At The Wilds

It is quite bizarre to think one can go on an actual safari in Ohio. On the contrary, The Wilds , located in Columbus, offers guests a truly unique safari experience. See giraffes, rhinos, and other rare and endangered animals from your open-air vehicle as you make your way through the vast savannah.

Great lodging options are available, from a family-friendly lodge to adults-only yurts overlooking the wildlife. This is one of the coolest things you can do within two hours of Cincinnati.

Relax In Croctail Creek At The Columbus Zoo

After your Wild’s experience hop over to the Columbus Zoo for even more fun.  One of the great things about the Columbus Zoo is that it is home to an aquarium and a waterpark called Zoombezi Bay.

Zoombezi Bay is home to the adults-only Croctail Creek. This adult-only lazy river lets you sit back, soak up the sun, and float around with your favorite beverage.  This little sanctuary is a great place for adults looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of a busy waterpark.

Sip And Shop Your Way Through Little Nashville

Known to many as “Little Nashville”, the town of Nashville, Indiana, boasts trendy boutiques, charming restaurants, and local wineries.  Imagine the most darling county store with a garden of beautiful wildflowers and turn it into a town; that is “Little Nashville”.

Quaint shops full of rustic charm line the bloom-filled streets. Every nook and cranny is home to a specialty shop that can’t be overlooked.  Whether you want to glam up your wardrobe, take home that perfect antique or find an original piece of art in one of the galleries, you can find it here in Nashville.

Brown County, Indiana is also known for scenic Brown County State Park, which comes alive with color during the fall months. The best is that this great getaway is two hours from Cincinnati.

Indulge In A Piece Of Chocolate Cake From The Cake Bake Shop

If you happen to be passing through Hamilton County, Indiana, it would be a sin to not stop by The Cake Bake Shop for a slice of their famous Chocolate Cake.  The experience of going to this exquisite cake shop is one that you will not forget.

The restaurant’s elegance, beauty, and interior are straight out of a fairytale. It is easy to see why this was one of Oprah’s favorite things.  I recommend trying a few of their tasty temptations and then taking a few things home as a souvenir.

Bike The Monon Trail

The Monon Trail is an abandoned railway that has been paved and welcomes bikers, runners, and those seeking a stroll.  Running from Indianapolis to Sheridan, Indiana, the Monon Trail is roughly 27 miles long, with plenty of great stops to explore along the way.

The trail cuts through Hamilton County, Indiana, home to a gorgeous art district, breweries, and plenty of family-friendly activities.  Bring a bike or rent one there but start planning this fun experience today!

Go Snorkeling In A Crystal Clear Lake

A quick getaway roughly 90 minutes from Cincinnati is  Natural Springs Resort, located in New Paris, Ohio . Snorkel in the crystal clear lake, snag the perfect fishing spot, then end the day with a marshmallow roast over a campfire. Natural Springs is one place that the family will want to come back to year after year with so much to do. 

The crown gem of Natural Springs Resort is the sparkling freshwater lake with a stunning rock quarry backdrop. This spring-fed lake offers many family fun activities, such as snorkeling in the clear waters and relaxing on the beach to rent a boat.

Explore the Old Athens Lunatic Asylum

The eerie mysteries that shroud the Athens Lunatic Asylum have intrigued and peaked curiosities for years. Now known as The Ridges, the Athens Lunatic Asylum operated from 1874 to 1993. The Asylum saw various patients, including civil war veterans, children, and those deemed mentally unwell.

It was meant to only house 550 patients when it opened; the Athens Lunatic Asylum surpassed nearly 2,000 patients by the 1950s. Later, small housing units were built to create small communities for patients to live in.

The hospital became known for its infamous lobotomy procedures along with electroshock therapy, hydrotherapy, and the use of psychotropic drugs.  I would recommend  pairing this with a progressive brewery making this a great couple or friends weekend getaway from Cincinnati

Learn more about the Ridges and start planning your visit to Athens with our Guide of Things To Do In Athens, Ohio .

Discover The Historic Side Of Lexington

A great day trip from Cincinnati is Lexington, KY. Lexington is home to plenty of fascinating history. With several of the historic homes and places, visitors to the area can go on a self-guided walk through downtown Lexington to scout out these historic landmarks.

Brochures featuring The Lexington Walk can be found online or at the Lexington Visitors Center.  While it is highly encouraged to walk the route, it is also drivable.  Discover the home of Mary Todd Lincoln, historic churches, the Hunt-Morgan House, and more. Hop in the car to see even more great historic homes, such as Ashland and the Waveland State Historic Site.  For a fun stop, be sure to swing into the Parkette Drive-In for a great meal.

Stay In A Historic Shaker Village

While you are in Lexington, be sure to check out Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.  The Shaker village has over 34 historic structures and 3000 acres from the early 1800s.

Opportunities are endless as you discover Kentucky’s Largest National Historic Landmark and learn about Shaker culture through demonstrations and programs. A truly unique aspect of Shaker village is that they offer 72 guest rooms located within 13 of the historic buildings.

This allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in history while experiencing top-notch hospitality.  Each room hosts a countryside view and is furnished in the traditional Shaker style.

They offer many unique and fun events throughout the year, including Trick-Or-Treat and Holiday Festivities. Since it is less than 2 hours from Cincinnati, you can return for all the special occasions.

Catch An Outdoor Drama In Chillicothe

Located in Chillicothe, The Tecumseh Outdoor Drama drew visitors for decades. The drama tells the life story of the legendary Shawnee leader, Tecumseh, who struggles to defend his sacred homelands in Ohio country during the late 1700s.  

VIP experiences and behind-the-scenes tours are also available. While in Chillicothe, explore the Hopewell earthworks throughout the area.

Check out our complete list of the best things to do in Chillicothe .

Create Your Own Unique Bourbon Trail Experience

Are you are bourbon enthusiast?  Whether you enjoy bourbon or not, this is a bucket list experience you don’t want to miss. Kentucky is home to Bourbon Trail, which is full of great distilleries, craft distilleries, and even bourbon fudge made by monks.

Working your way through the entire Bourbon Trail could take days or even weeks. One perk of living so close is that you can customize your experience. Selecting a few distilleries each trip, is one getaway that can be a different experience each time you go.  After hitting the trail a few times, we have developed a list of favorite Bourbon Trail Stops.

Drive Through A Cave In Louisville

Another great experience less than 2 hours from Cincinnati is the Louisville Mega Cavern. This cavern is full of adventure, including zip lines, an aerial ropes course, bike tours, and more. This cavern has more than 4,000,000 square feet of space, which they utilize year-round.

During the holidays, the Mega Cavern offers Lights Under Louisville, in which visitors do a self-guided drive through a specular light display all underground!

Another popular reason to venture down to Louisville is for the Kentucky Derby!

Hike The Trails Of Red River Gorge

A great outdoor adventure awaits at a breathtaking Red River Gorge. This two-hour drive from Cincinnati is well worth it for those seeking to exchange the sounds of the city for those of nature. The gorge is known for its natural bridge, jaw-dropping view, and beautiful trails.

The Daniel Boone National Forest is also home to rafting, canoeing, ziplining, and more. Be sure to explore the gorge underground as you kayak through the cavern. Cabins, campgrounds, and nearby hotels are available for those looking to overnight.

Explore all of Dayton’s 5 River’s Great MetroParks

Dayton is home to an extraordinary park system. The  Five Rivers MetroParks offers nearly 16,000 acres of green space across 25 facilities. This includes 18 parks, conservation areas, and the 2nd Street Market. Each park offers great outdoor experiences and its unique activities for guests to enjoy.

From kayaking and hiking to horseback riding, there is something for everyone. Did I mention that there is no cost to enter any of the MetroParks?!  A few of our favorites include Carillon Historical Park and the Weygerzyn Gardens. Exploring the various parks makes for many different day trips from Cincinnati.

Discover Preble County’s Historic Bridges

A well-kept secret of Preble County, Ohio, has been preserving eight historic covered bridges. Many of which are still in use today.  Each covered bridge has a story to tell, or should I say each person in Preble County has a story about a covered bridge.

Many bridges have overcome fires, tornados, and oversized trucks, but the more romantic side of the covered bridges captures visitors’ attention. Take a day to explore all of the covered bridges in Preble County .  Nearby Hueston Woods is a great spot to stay the night or do a little hiking.

Embrace The Irish Culture In Dublin, OH

Whether you have a little Irish in you, or wish you did, Dublin is full of Irish charm for you to take in and savor.  It’s easy to get into the Irish spirit, as Dublin is home to the country’s largest three-day Irish Festival and The Celtic Cocktail Trail. There are plenty of things to do in Dublin Ohio that will surprise you. One of the most unique things to see in Dublin is the Corn Henge, a field of concert corn!

A tour of their famous public art, go zipling, venture a fairy trail, and more. May multiple day trips from Cincinnati to check off all the public art!

Peer Inside Old Man’s Cave

A little over two hours from Cincinnati is one of Ohio’s most scenic parks, Hocking Hills State Park.  There are many great hiking options here, but one of the most popular is Old Man’s Cave.  Many hikers choose to start at the Upper Falls because the Grandma Gatewood Trail begins its six-mile course connecting three of the park’s areas: Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls to Ash Cave.

However, for those seeking a quick peek, a short hike from the designated parking area will leave you with a beautiful view of the cave.  This natural wonder is fun to visit anytime; however, try going in the winter months for a less crowded and more serene visit. The frozen waterfalls genuinely make it a spectacular sight.

Get our complete list of the ten best hikes in Hocking Hills .

Walkthrough The Vibrant And Eclectic Town Of Yellow Springs

From a lively downtown scene to sipping on ice-cold brews from Yellow Springs Brewery, this is one of our favorite day trips from Cincinnati to make with or without kids. Yellow Springs, OH, has laid-back coffee shops, unusual boutiques, and plenty of delicious food.

Nature lovers come prepared to hike, as on of the top things in Yellow Springs is to get out and enjoy their parks. The John Bryan State Park offers many hiking trails, while Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve has stunning limestone gorges.

Don’t miss out on a visit to the Glen Helen Nature Preserve to see the famous yellow springs and beautiful waterfalls.  After a good hike, head over to Young’s Dairy for a scoop of their delicious homemade ice cream!

Get Hand’s On At One of Indianapolis’ Famous Museums

Indianapolis is known as the perfect day trip for families because of its award-winning Children’s Museum. While the Children’s Museum is always a great stop, Indy is full of other great museums to explore. Consider visiting a museum full of percussion instruments that you can play at The Rythmn Discover Center or learn about the history of racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

Stroll through galleries of stunning at Newfields or swing into the Eiteljorg Museum to view their collection of American Indian and Western Art. Indianapolis has something for everything from its vibrant food scene, deep history, and the Indianapolis Zoo!

Add A Layer Of Paint To The Worlds Largest Ball Of Paint

Tucked away in Alexandria, Indiana, hanging from an industrial size hook, is the World’s Largest Ball of Paint. What once started as a humble baseball now has over 26,000 layers of paint and counting.

Visitors to this Guinness Book of World Records Holding attraction can add a layer to the ever-growing ball. The attraction is free to the public; however, you must call ahead and schedule a time.

The World’s Largest Ball of Paint is at the Carmicheal home and is open by appointment only. A quick google search will yield the current phone number to contact to set up your tour.

Go Swimming at an Old Quarry in La Grange, KY

Another great day trip within two hours from Cincinnati is La Grange, KY.  Adults can cool off at Falling Rock Park .  It is an old rock quarry that is maintained solely through rainwater! Anyone over 18 can bring a pool raft, noodle, kayak, or paddleboard and relax.

While you are visiting, be sure to visit Mainstreet La Grange, one of the few places in the country where the train runs right down the middle of the road.

Hartman Rock Garden

Venture off the beaten path with a visit to the Hartman Rock Garden a spectacular collection of art made by self-taught artist Ben Hartman. One man’s legacy has become a unique Ohio roadside attraction drawing thousands of visitors annually. The garden is free to visit and is open year-round.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

One of the best day trips from Cincinnati is a visit to the Wright-Patterson Airforce Base, known as the National Museum of the United States Air Force. This historic treasure is the world’s largest  Military Aviation Museum. The Museum is FREE to the public and is open daily, except holidays.

The Air Force Museum has an impressive collection of iconic planes that will leave your inner child wanting to climb inside each one. The history and artifacts found throughout the museum are second to none.  Learn about the history of the Wright Brothers, see the plane that dropped the bomb on Hiroshima, and then check out the rockets in the space exhibit.

Tip: Be sure to check their special events to see when they will having their annual Airshows!

Explore Downtown Hamilton Ohio

One of our favorite day trips from Cincinnati is to Hamiton, Ohio. This small town is the perfect shopping retreat as chic boutiques, trendy restaurants, along with new experiences are popping up all over. Take a stroll along the Greater Miami River, visit Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, and learn about the fascinating history of Fort Hamilton. Start planning your trip to Downtown Hamilton Ohio .

Big Bone Lick State Park

Big Bone Lick State Park in Union, Kentucky, gives visitors the unique opportunity to view bison completely free! Remains of ancient mammoths and Pleistocene megafauna have been found in the area, making it known as the Big Bone Lick State Historic Site.

With plenty of hiking trails, a family-friendly campground, educational exhibits, a visitor center, and a museum, Big Bone Lick is the perfect Kentucky day trip or weekend getaway.

Tip : Big Bone Lick is near the Rabbit Hash General Store.

Explore Columbus

Columbus provides a mecca of entertainment options, from the bizarre art at Otherworld to the acclaimed LEGOLAND and everything in between! It is easy to spend a day or a week exploring all that this capital city has to offer.

Whether you are venturing up for an overnight at the Brewdog Hotel or planning a visit to COSI, Columbus makes the perfect day trip from Cincinnati.

See The Portsmouth Flood Wall Murals

Where the Scioto River meets the Ohio River lays the sleepy small town of Portsmouth, Ohio. Stroll the magnificent floodwall murals, hunt for antiques, or take a peaceful hike through Shawnee State Park.

The Portsmouth  Ohio Floodwall Murals  are an iconic Ohio landmark that portrays the local history through exquisitely painted murals. Over 55 murals adorn the floodwalls, each depicting a moment in time.

While you are there, discover these Great Things To Do In Portsmouth, Ohio.

Catch The View From Rising Park

Soak in breathtaking views of Lancaster, Ohio, by climbing to the top of Rising Park’s Mount Pleasant. Arguably one of Ohio’s most spectacular views, Mount Pleasant overlooks the city of Lancaster with the surrounding foothills in the distance.

To get to the top of Mount Pleasant, visitors enter through Rising Park. A parking lot is adjacent to the trailhead, directly past the tennis courts. The climb is moderate; however, remember that you will gain 206ft in elevation in about .7 miles. It took us roughly 45 minutes round trip, but you can stay up and enjoy the view for hours.

Visit Serpent Mound

Unknown to many, Ohio is home to the world’s largest effigy mound. The Great Serpent Mound in Adams County, Ohio, is surrounded by mystery, wonder, and tradition. It is a National Historic Landmark that should be on every Ohio Bucket List. Here are five fun things to do during a visit to Serpent Mound.

Ohio is full of remarkable earthworks, so much so that there is an Ancient Trail to help you discover them all.

Explore The Charming Small Town Of Troy, Ohio

The charming area of downtown Troy is one of the best-hidden gems in Ohio. Right in the heart of Miami County, Troy offers visitors unique adventures, family-friendly parks, and tons of midwest hospitality. Discover the history, taste the flavors, and join in on incredible local events.

Feeling adventurous? Troy offers one of the few places guests can stay overnight in Floating Tents .

Fun Day Trips Without Leaving Cincinnati

You don’t have to hit the open road to plan a great day trip from Cincinnati. Cincinnati is a huge city full of activities. Here is a list of the best day trips without leaving the city.

• Explore the riverwalks along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati.
• Spend the day riding roller coasters at Kings Island.
• Stroll the galleries at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
• Get a day pass to Great Wolf Lodge in Mason.
• Sign-up for a behind-the-scenes opportunity at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
• Tour the American Sign Museum.
• Catch a Red’s Game at the Great American Ball Park.
• Create your own Streetcar Tour.
• Eat your way through Findlay Market.

Looking For A Weekend Getaway From Cincinnati? 

On the hunt for a relaxing lake getaway a little over four hours from Cincinnati? Consider a visit to Put-In-Bay .  Known as the “Key West” of the North, many guests come to enjoy the beautiful lake views, entertainment, and history.  Hop on the ferry to the island,  rent a golf cart, and spend the day exploring this unique Ohio destination.

Get our complete guide to one of Ohio’s beautiful islands; Middle Bass Island!

More Day Trips From Cincinnati

Looking for more great day trips within two hours from Cincinnati?

A Girlfriend Getaway To Springfield, Ohio 

17 things to do in santa claus, indiana , 11 outdoor activities to do in richmond indiana , 30 day trips within two hours from cincinnati.

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two hours journey

• Thread starter sunnyweather
• Start date May 13, 2021

sunnyweather

Senior member.

• May 13, 2021
• a. a two hours journey
• b. two hours' journey correct
• c. a two hour's journey
• d. a two-hours journey

Keith Bradford

Possessive nouns and pronouns function as determiners, and although it is sometimes possible for a noun to have more than one determiner, I don't think it is ever possible to have a second determiner with "a"/"an" or "the". You can, of course, have "an hour's journey" because "an" belongs with "hour", not "journey". You can have "a two-hour journey", where "a" belongs with "journey" and "two-hour" is an attributive noun phrase, functioning as an adjective (which is why it is the singular "two hour" and not the plural "two hours"), but you cannot have "a two hours' journey", at least, not in grammatically correct English. It is possible that preferring singular attributive nouns is getting eroded. Certainly it is more of a convention than a grammatical rule, and there are numerous exceptions that defy logical explanation (why, for example, do we say "women novelists" rather than "woman novelists"?), and that "a two-hours journey" may at some time in the future become standard English, but it is not standard English at this moment in time.  

• May 15, 2021

Thank you for your explanations and comments. I do appreciate your help.  

Cities near Columbus within 2 hours

These are straight line distances in a radius around Columbus within roughly 2 to 2½ hours. You can also explore cities near Cleveland or cities near Cincinnati . There are many towns within the total area, so if you're looking for closer places, try a smaller radius.

Things to do near Columbus within 2 hours

Places to eat near columbus within 2 hours, places to stay near columbus within 2 hours, cities near.

Planning a short road trip to a new destination that's within driving distance for the weekend? Try adjusting the travel time, results will vary depending on the distance or time.

Radius from Columbus

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Solar eclipse: When to leave Cincinnati, Columbus to reach the path of totality

[ Note: This story has been edited for clarity. ]

In order to view the upcoming solar eclipse’s path of totality in Ohio, you might need to beat traffic. 

Check that. You almost certainly will need to beat traffic to view total darkness unless you live in the path of totality.

On April 8, Ohio residents will have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view a total solar eclipse. The moon will pass between the earth and sun, completely blocking the sun’s rays from anywhere between 10 seconds to nearly four and a half minutes during the longest time of totality in north-central Mexico. The moon will appear to be the same size as the sun, leading to a period of darkness that will last several minutes.

It's a unique event, and Ohio officials are planning for anywhere between 150,000 to 575,000 visitors when the total solar eclipse casts its shadow over Ohio on April 8.

2024 solar eclipse: Where could Ohio traffic be bad during the solar eclipse? See the map from ODOT

The 124-mile-wide path of totality will cross the state from southwest to northeast, briefly blanketing cities like Dayton, Mansfield, Akron, Cleveland and Toledo in darkness. Cincinnati and Columbus are just south of totality, only able to view a partial solar eclipse.

The total solar eclipse visits Ohio at 3:08 p.m. with the final exit of the Moon's shadow from the state at 3:19 p.m.

To view the path of totality, those in Columbus, Cincinnati and the southeast portion of the state will have to head north. Here is what the Ohio Department of Transportation predicted.

Eclipse traffic starts to worsen when traveling from 9-10 a.m.

A good few hours before the eclipse, drivers can expect mixed traffic patterns, beginning from moderate to heavy.

Rush hour traffic around Cincinnati and Columbus will remain later in the morning. Based on predictions, Interstate 71 north is expected to begin the morning with main state roads straining to handle increased volume. It could lead to having fewer vehicle able to access the highway portions of ODOT's network. 

Ohio traffic could snarl before the eclipse when traveling from 1-2 p.m.

You could get on the highway an hour or two before the eclipse begins, but you probably won’t make it in time to your destination to see it, depending on how far you have to drive.

The ability for the major highways to handle the expected traffic surge is expected to get even lower as the day continues. Based on projections, the chances are Interstates 71, 75 and 77 may look more like parking lots than expressways. 

Ohio's largest highways could be at a standstill around 5-6 p.m., hours after the eclipse

As drivers travel back home after witnessing the solar eclipse, they might not be going anywhere fast. ODOT predicts the volume of traffic will be at its peak in the early evening, and cars may remain at a standstill on highways based on predictions. 

View this eclipse traffic forecasting map by Ohio Department of Transportation to get a glimpse of traffic patterns that may be caused by crazed eclipse viewers who will be traveling to see it. Plan ahead, be alert on the roads and drive safely!

2024 solar eclipse: How long will solar eclipse darkness last in Ohio cities? Explore these interactive maps

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You can also search for the closest airport to any city in the world or check the flying distance between airports. If you're thinking about a road trip, compare the driving time for the same route.

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