Escaping the Big City
Columbus is located within driving distance of many notable weekend trips.
By Joe Frye
As winter begins to fade away, spring and summer vacations heat up. While the city may offer plenty to do within and in the surrounding suburbs, Columbus is close to many notable weekend trips for those itching to get out of the big city.
Hocking Hills
One hour drive
Popular for its dramatic rock formations, waterfalls and forests, Hocking Hills allows visitors to take in and unwind in the great outdoors. Classics of the vacation hotspot include Old Man’s Cave, Rock Cave and Conkle’s Hallow. In addition to the natural beauty of the destination, recent development has made Hocking Hills that much more of an exciting getaway. With locally-owned breweries, vineyards and restaurants abound, you’re trip is sure to be more than just a weekend in the woods.
Plan your trip on Hocking Hill’s official tourism website.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Two hour drive
Situated between Cleveland and Akron, Ohio’s only national park provides scenic trails, cascading waterfalls and intriguing history to its visitors. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, paddle or anything in between, the park’s over 125 miles of trails have you covered. Moreover, the park boasts deer, beavers, herons and more for those looking to spot some wildlife.
In addition to the natural wonders of the park, Cuyahoga Valley’s historical sites like the Canal Exploration Center and Hale Farm & Village give insight into how the area has sustained human life.
Plan your trip on Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s website.
Sandusky
Two and a half hour drive
Known as the home of the amusement park Cedar Point, Sandusky offers thrills and charm alike. Set to open for the season on May 3, Cedar Point’s 18 rollercoasters and classic family-friendly rides make it an ideal spot to soak up the summer sun.
In addition to thrill-seeking at Cedar Point, the small city offers main street charm in its Historic Downtown. The city’s boardwalk jets out onto Lake Erie and offers casual dining and entertainment while the Merry-Go-Round Museum provides a glimpse into a different type of theme park fun.
Of course, the city also can stand as a launch pad for other weekend getaways, with ferries to the Erie Islands Put-in-Bay or Kelleys Island available.
Plan your trip on Sandusky Visitors Bureau website.
Port Clinton
Two and a half hour drive
The so-called “Walleye Capital of the World,” Port Clinton’s location along the shores of Lake Erie offers world-class fishing opportunities for those looking to catch their next big one. The charming downtown offers cozy waterfront restaurants and local shops. For families, the African Safari Wildlife Park offers a drive-through experience to see some animals you can’t find elsewhere in Ohio. Additionally, much like Sandusky, ferry access to The Erie Islands is available.
Plan your trip on the city’s website.
