Top 5 Ohio Tours: Sightseeing & Cruises You Can’t Miss

So, you’re thinking about seeing a bit of Ohio, is that right? That’s almost an excellent shout! You’ve got history, natural wonders, and that certain Midwest charm all bundled up into one pretty interesting state. I’ve pulled together some tours, sightseeing spots, and a few cruises that might tickle your fancy – because, honestly, there’s a little bit for everybody here!

1. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad: A Ride Through Time

Want to step back from the usual hustle and bustle? You could catch the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. The train chugs right through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, too it’s almost offering amazing views of woodlands, rolling hills, and also the quietly snaking Cuyahoga River that has been an iconic part of Ohio’s story. It isn’t just a ride, oh no! It is a bit of living history, what with themed excursions ranging from a trip remembering specific holidays to wine-tasting events. Believe it or not, but that sounds pretty good, actually!

That railway really started way back when, serving folks getting around and shipping stuff during the late 1800s. Very, very fast forward to now, and you’re able to chill in old-school carriages, soaking up the scenery that kinda hasn’t changed all that dramatically since people first settled here. For real, this tour’s that kind of laid-back activity that could speak to a whole heap of people: history buffs, families just trying to find an outing, or, even more, people just keen on getting good snaps of pretty landscapes. In that case, it has loads to offer!

2. Put-in-Bay Island Hopping: Lake Erie Adventure

If island hopping is more up your street, consider Put-in-Bay, which, by the way, is right on Lake Erie. This spot’s known for its somewhat lively vibe, history from way back when, and also quite the look-out spot! Ferries zip over from the mainland pretty frequently, so, too it’s almost getting there’s not all that much of a drama. That journey on the water will already have you starting to loosen up!

You can check out lots of different things as well as that: Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is just one thing you can experience, if you were that way inclined. Alternatively, you can scoot around in golf carts – what a scream – to explore vineyards or poke your nose in cute little shops. Or simply kick back by the waterfront that offers some decent views of boats coming and going. In other words, whether it’s history, good times, or nice scenery, Put-in-Bay is one great shout.

3. Hocking Hills Canopy Tours: Zipping Through Nature

Fancy swinging around among the trees? So, Hocking Hills is definitely that place. The Hocking Hills region is something else entirely, just imagine dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and thick forests. Zip line tours are kind of very the thing here, but then again there are many trails that take you across swaying suspension bridges plus they go by caves and amazing rock formations, is that right? It gives you thrills and a view, it really does.

As a matter of fact, different tours meet people right at different confidence levels – you might well start with something pretty chill then wind up doing stuff that gets that heart properly going. Safety is top of mind and those folks that run these tours obviously really know their stuff. The point being that, for something very memorable that lets you see the raw wonders of Ohio from way up high, this might just take the biscuit. Honestly, I love this as it combines physical adventure with some awesome viewing points!

4. Ohio River Sternwheeler Cruise: Steamboat Memories

Ever think of kicking it old school while still seeing new sights? Very, very well then, have you seen an Ohio River sternwheeler cruise? Some charming boats chug along the river so it’s almost past cities and countryside showing parts of Ohio from the river’s point of view – kinda special! Many cruises sort of throw in food and music, by the way, and maybe tales of river lore as you pass particular landmarks, and so on. The views are pretty unique.

I want to make it clear, but that type of cruise kind of echoes back to the steamboat days of yesteryear which makes it so much more relaxing because that’s just really different. It’s a very peaceful alternative so that instead of rushing between sights, you kick back, take it steady and watch Ohio just coast on by. A good choice if you appreciate a mix of easy-going travel along with history gently unfolded as you go.

5. Amish Country Tours: A Different Pace of Life

Want to just peel back layers to discover something completely contrasting compared to your typical vacation spot? Well, a tour of Ohio’s Amish Country might just cut it, by the way. You get driven across stunning countryside that’s just splattered with farms. Meanwhile you are getting up-close experiences that just show exactly how the Amish stick to traditions with not so many modern elements involved in their culture. The scenery? Just imagine endless green farmlands broken up occasionally with horse-drawn buggies. I do hope that is your thing!

Local guides generally show you craft places, explain local customs and just offer glimpses into quite a closed community, actually! You get things like handmade crafts, tasty home-style cooking, maybe even an unexpected tractor on the road. The great part really might just involve just dropping down a gear compared to hectic lifestyles, offering almost a mirror that will certainly prompt deep breaths. This works perfectly to encourage appreciating life in this simpler way. And it’s super informative, I feel.