Cleveland, OH
The 15 Most Popular Tourist Attractions In Ohio, According To Trip Advisor
Believe it or not, Ohio is emerging as quite the tourist destination. Our tourism industry has grown into quite a powerhouse, contributing significantly to the Ohio’s economy.
With a staggering $38 billion industry, Ohio welcomed an impressive 201 million visitors in 2021, many of whom were within a day’s drive – a testament to the state’s central location. The allure of Ohio extends beyond day trips, with 34 million visitors choosing to stay overnight, contributing three times more to the economy than their day-tripping counterparts.
In terms of economic impact, day visitors spend around $106 per person, while overnight guests substantially boost the local economy by spending an estimated $327 per person. The tourism sector is also a key player in job creation, supporting approximately 378,000 jobs, encompassing full-time, part-time, and seasonal positions.
All of that is to say that tourism is booming here in the Buckeye state, and we’ve got the data to prove it. Ohio takes a lot of heat for not being cool, but the reality is that hundreds of millions of people are visiting every year and that number is only expected to grow.
To curate this list of the 15 Most Popular Tourist Attractions, we turned to the discerning reviews on TripAdvisor, offering you a guide based on the firsthand experiences of fellow explorers. Let’s dive right in.
National Museum of the US Air Force
About: The National Museum of the US Air Force is a must-visit for aviation enthusiasts. As the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world, it boasts a vast collection of aircraft and missiles, along with engaging exhibits about the history and technology of air and space flight.
Location: 1100 Spaatz St, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH 45433
More info: National Museum of the US Air Force
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
About: Celebrating the history and cultural significance of rock and roll, this museum is a pilgrimage site for music lovers. It features memorabilia from legendary artists, interactive exhibits, and detailed stories about the evolution of this iconic genre.
Location: 1100 E 9th St, Cleveland, OH 44114
More info: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Cleveland Museum of Art
About: This internationally renowned museum offers a vast collection that spans 6,000 years of world art, including Asian, European, American, African, and ancient art, along with contemporary pieces. It’s known for its high-quality exhibitions and is free to the public.
Location: 11150 East Blvd, Cleveland, OH 44106
More info: Cleveland Museum of Art
Cedar Point
About: Often dubbed “The Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” Cedar Point is an adrenaline-pumping amusement park with a record-breaking number of roller coasters. The resort is home to 69 rides, including exhilarating attractions like the new Top Thrill 2™, Steel Vengeance® and Millennium Force®, the Cedar Point Shores Waterpark, family-friendly shows, delicious dining, a mile-long beach, on-site hotels and more.
Location: 1 Cedar Point Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870
More info: Cedar Point
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
About: One of the oldest zoos in the United States, it’s home to over 1,800 animals and offers a variety of educational programs. The botanical garden adds a scenic touch, making it a delightful visit for nature and animal lovers. Plus a visit will get you the chance to see the world’s most famous (and adorable) hippo, Fiona.
Location: 3400 Vine St, Cincinnati, OH 45220
More info: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden
West Side Market
About: A culinary and historical gem in Cleveland, the West Side Market, with its origins dating back to 1840, is the city’s oldest publicly owned market and a beloved destination for over a million visitors annually. The market offers an ethnically diverse array of over 100 vendors, selling everything from fine meats to fresh flowers, and even ready-to-eat treats.
Location: 1979 W 25th St, Cleveland, OH 44113
More info: West Side Market
Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
About: This world-class zoo and aquarium are recognized for their conservation efforts and educational programs. With a wide range of animals and aquatic life, it provides an engaging experience for visitors of all ages. Plus, you can totally hand feed giraffes.
Location: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065
More info: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
A Christmas Story House
About: Fans of the classic film “A Christmas Story” will love this attraction, which is the actual house used in the movie. Visitors can tour the house and relive their favorite moments from the film.
Location: 3159 W 11th St, Cleveland, OH 44109
More info: A Christmas Story House
Easton Town Center
About: A dynamic shopping, dining, and entertainment destination, Easton Town Center offers a vibrant mix of upscale boutiques, popular retailers, and diverse culinary options. It’s a great place for a leisurely day out.
Location: 160 Easton Town Ctr, Columbus, OH 43219
More info: Easton Town Center
Great American Ball Park
About: Home of the Cincinnati Reds, this ballpark offers a classic American baseball experience. Fans can enjoy the games, learn about the team’s history, and soak in the spectacular views of the Ohio River.
Location: 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
More info: Great American Ball Park
Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
About: This horticultural and educational institution showcases exotic plant collections, special exhibitions, and a landmark 1895 glasshouse. It’s a peaceful retreat that offers seasonal displays and art installations, including a variety of stunning works by Chihuly.
Location: 1777 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43203
More info: Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Hocking Hills State Park
About: Known for its stunning natural scenery, Hocking Hills State Park features waterfalls, cliffs, gorges, and hiking trails. It’s a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore Ohio’s natural beauty.
Location: 19852 State Route 664 S, Logan, OH 43138
More info: Hocking Hills State Park
Pro Football Hall of Fame
About: A shrine to the greatest players, coaches, and contributors in professional football, this museum offers interactive exhibits, historic memorabilia, and celebrates the sport’s impact on American culture.
Location: 2121 George Halas Dr NW, Canton, OH 44708
More info: Pro Football Hall of Fame
The Wilds
About: One of the largest conservation centers in North America, The Wilds is home to rare and endangered species from around the globe. It offers unique experiences like safari tours and zip-lining, making it a thrilling visit for wildlife enthusiasts. If you’re interested in planning an extended visit, you can even rent yurts on the property overlooking the savannah.
Location: 14000 International Rd, Cumberland, OH 43732
More info: The Wilds
Cincinnati Museum Center
About: Housed in the historic Union Terminal, this complex includes museums focusing on history, science, and children’s themes. It’s an educational and entertaining destination for visitors of all ages and the rotunda in the museum will blow you away.
Location: 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45203
More info: Cincinnati Museum Center
CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – Several schools throughout Ohio were placed on lockdown on Wednesday due to threats.
ROCKY RIVER CITY SCHOOLS
Rocky River High School got a phone call at approximately 10:53 a.m. threatening the safety of the school.
The Rocky River Police Department said the caller said they were heading to the school with weapons, RRPD later shared in a press conference.
Police officers teamed up by mutual aid swiftly arrived to ensure no unauthorized persons were on campus, RRPD stated.
“Rooms were cleared and no dangers were located,” RRPD said. “There are no indications that there was ever any danger to any of the students, staff or buildings of the district.”
Parents told 19 News their kids sent them pictures of officers walking through the halls with rifles.
Rocky River High School will have early dismissal as there will be a heavy police presence in and around the Rocky River Schools for the rest of Wednesday and throughout the week, according to RRPD.
Students who drive were expected to be released by 12:30 p.m., while students who walk or are picked up by parents were released at 1 p.m., RRPD shared.
RRPD called the phone call a swatting incident, and said “any person or people behind hoax threat calls will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Chief George Lichman says they are working with other agencies to find out who made the call. They said the number that popped up was not local. They do not know at this time if it was an incorrect number or a computerized message.
Chief Lichman says he doesn’t believe the school system has experienced a swatting call before.
There will be additional officers on campus throughout the week.
AUBURN CAREER CENTER
Auburn Career Center in Lake County’s Concord Township received a threat over the phone at approximately 10:16 a.m., Lake County Sheriff Frank Leonbruno stated.
Deputies were immediately sent to the school to assist the School Resource Officer in the investigation as a lockdown was implemented as a precaution.
Auburn Career Center shared at 12:55 p.m. that a thorough investigation determined the threat to be not credible, and all students were safely dismissed and left the building, which remained guarded by deputies.
All afternoon and evening classes for both high school and adult education scheduled for Wednesday have been canceled in light of the morning’s event.
“We want to thank the Lake County Sheriff’s Office for their immediate response and partnership during this situation,” said Superintendent Joe Glavan. “I also want to thank our staff and students for following procedures and doing exactly what was necessary to ensure everyone’s safety. While this threat was ultimately deemed not credible, we will always prioritize the safety of our students and staff.”
Leonbruno confirmed there is no active threat at Auburn Career Center, but the incident remains under investigation.
SHAKER HEIGHTS CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Shaker Heights High School briefly went under lockdown as a precaution during Pre-ACT and ACT testing after getting a call of a possible bomb threat outside of the building, Shaker Schools stated.
Shaker Schools also said Fernway and Onaway elementary schools briefly went into a lockdown.
Shaker Heights Police Department officers are at the high school and “have not found any evidence of a credible threat,” Shaker Schools stated.
FBI CLEVELAND
FBI Cleveland shared the following statement in regards to their response to the Northeast Ohio school swatting incidents:
OTTAWA HILLS LOCAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
In the Toledo area, Ottawa Hills Superintendent Adam Fineske said a call for a bomb threat came in at 10:45 a.m., targeting the Junior/Senior High School, stating “Bombs all over the school and coming with guns.”
Toledo Police K-9 units swept the school and nothing was found.
BOWLING GREEN CITY SCHOOLS
Bowling Green High School was also affected by the treats and placed on lockdown as a precautionary measure just before noon.
INDIAN HILL EXEMPTED VILLAGE SCHOOL DISTRICT
Indian Hill High School in Cincinnati evacuated students and staff around 11 a.m. on Wednesday with the help of Indian Hill Rangers after getting a potential bomb threat.
Indian Hill Middle School was evacuated as a precaution.
MASON CITY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Mason High School received a threatening phone call on Wednesday morning, Mason City Schools confirmed.
The Mason Police Department and Campus Safety team determined it was safe to resume normal school operations at 11:44 a.m. when law enforcement confirmed there was no credible threat to the schools, Mason City Schools stated.
CINCINNATI PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Cincinnati Public Schools’ Walnut Hills High School was under lock-in after receiving a bomb threat.
The lock-in was lifted after Cincinnati police cleared the area, and school resumed normal operations.
This is a developing story. Return to 19 News for updates.
Copyright 2026 WOIO. All rights reserved.
Cleveland, OH
Medical examiner releases new details about bodies of 2 young girls found in suitcases near Cleveland school
CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner released new information about the bodies of two young girls found in suitcases in Cleveland’s South Collinwood neighborhood.
On Wednesday morning, the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner confirmed through DNA that the two girls are half-siblings.
At this time, they have not been positively identified, and no further information is available while the investigation is ongoing.
In a news conference on Tuesday, Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd confirmed the bodies of two young girls were found in suitcases on the city’s East Side on Monday evening.
Cleveland police were called just after 6 p.m. to a field in the area of East 163rd and Midland Avenue for a suspected dead body.
According to police sources, a man was walking his dog in the area, for the first time in a while, due to the snow, and the dog hit on the scent.
The man immediately called 911.
“The officers responded out and located a deceased individual that was in a shallow grave inside of a suitcase,” said Chief Todd.
When officers and homicide detectives got to the scene, Todd said they found the second body nearby.
According to the chief, both suitcases were partially buried in shallow graves. She said the victims had been there quite some time.
“It is traumatic for everyone. It is traumatic for those who live in the area to know that this was right there at their doorstep,” said Todd.
Authorities said one victim is believed to be 8-and-a-half to 13 years old and the other is believed to be 10-and-a-half to 14 years old.
“Locally, we have no reports of missing children to match these identifications. We are checking statewide as well. We have assistance from our state, federal and local partners,” said Todd.
Detectives are checking with state and federal partners as well.
This crime scene is located near Ginn Academy in the city’s South Collinwood neighborhood.
Police said the investigation remains in its very early stages and there is no indication of an ongoing threat to public safety.
If anyone has any information, they are asked to call the Cleveland Police Homicide Unit at 216-623-5464.
Tips can remain anonymous.
Copyright 2026 WOIO. All rights reserved.
Cleveland, OH
Bodies of 2 young girls found in suitcases in Cleveland’s South Collinwood neighborhood
CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – Cleveland Police Chief Dorothy Todd on Tuesday confirmed the bodies of two young girls were found in suitcases on the city’s East Side Monday evening.
Cleveland police were called just after 6 p.m. to a field in the area of East 163rd and Midland Avenue for a suspected dead body.
According to police sources, a man was walking his dog in the area, for the first time in awhile due to the snow, and the dog hit on the scent.
The man immediately called 911.
“The officers responded out and located a deceased individual that was in a shallow grave inside of a suitcase,” said Chief Todd.
When officers and homicide detectives got to the scene, Todd said they found the second body nearby.
According to the chief, both suitcases were partially buried in shallow graves. She said the victims had been there quite some time.
“It is traumatic for everyone. It is traumatic for those who live in the area to know that this was right there at their door step,” said Todd.
Authorities said one victim is believed to be 8-and-a-half to 13 years old and the other is believed to be 10-and-a-half to 14 years old.
There is no indication at this time on their identities, according to police.
“locally we have no reports of missing children to match these identifications. We are checking statewide as well. We have assistance from our state federal and local partners,” said Todd.
Detectives are checking with state and federal partners as well.
The Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner has taken custody of the bodies and will conduct further examination to determine the cause of death.
This crime scene is located near Ginn Academy in the city’s South Collinwood neighborhood.
Police said the investigation remains in its very early stages and there is no indication of an ongoing threat to public safety.
If anyone has any information, they are asked to call the Cleveland Police Homicide Unit at 216-623-5464.
Tips can remain anonymous.
Copyright 2026 WOIO. All rights reserved.
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