18 Family Field Trips to Take This Summer

Oh Wow! Children’s Center for Science & Technology

The Oh Wow! Children’s Center for Science & Technology in downtown Youngstown provides an exciting, hands-on destination designed to ignite curiosity in children of all ages. Perfect for a weekend outing or a day trip, Oh Wow! invites families to learn through play, experimentation and discovery. Explore the world of STEM — science, technology, engineering and math — through more than 60 hands-on exhibits that engage children and adults alike.

The center’s unique Wow! Zones are tailored to different age groups and interests, ensuring a fun and educational experience for everyone from toddlers to teens. From building structures in the Engineering Zone to exploring energy, motion and forces in the Physics area, every exhibit invites young minds to engage directly with scientific principles.

Staffed by enthusiastic educators and volunteers, the center is committed to making science accessible and fun, helping to build confidence and critical thinking skills in future innovators. Designed with kids in mind, the museum makes science fun, accessible and deeply engaging. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to join in the exploration, making it a perfect destination for family learning and bonding.

Oh Wow! is a vibrant hub for creativity, exploration and community. Whether you spend an hour or an afternoon, it’s a place where kids are encouraged to touch, test, tinker and, most importantly, wonder. For more information, visit ohwowkids.org.

Chillicothe

Kick off your family field trip with a visit to Chillicothe, where ancient wonders and hands-on fun come together. Start at Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where kids can walk among awe-inspiring earthworks built more than 2,000 years ago. 

Then, step into 19th-century life at Adena Mansion & Gardens, once home to Ohio’s sixth governor, with beautiful grounds and engaging exhibits that detail this property’s role in our state’s history. 

Downtown Chillicothe is packed with family fun. Paint your own masterpiece at a pottery studio, then treat everyone to a visit at Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop, a colorful, old-school candy store filled with sweets from every generation. The downtown streets are perfect for strolling, shopping and grabbing a bite to eat at a favorite local restaurant.

Summer comes alive at Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre with “Tecumseh!”  The legendary outdoor drama blends action, storytelling and live battle scenes under the stars. It’s a thrilling way to cap off a day of adventure and learn more about the history of this part of the state.

Need room to roam? With five state parks and more than 200 miles of scenic trails, Ross County is a dream for families who love the outdoors too. From world-class heritage sites to sweet treats and summer nights, Chillicothe offers an unforgettable getaway for all ages. Plan your adventure at visitchillicotheohio.com.

Wayne County

Find fun for all ages in Wayne County this summer. Kids will love taking a trip to Acres of Fun, which is home to activities like roller skating, laser tag, go-karting, mini golf, batting cages and so much more. 

Outdoor attractions are ripe for exploring this season, like Secrest Arboretum in Wooster with its more than 100 acres of gardens and woodlands or Brown’s Lake Bog Preserve in Shreve, which is home to more than 20 rare species. The Wilderness Center in Wilmot provides a chance to explore nature with its 12 miles of hiking trails, as well as indoor exhibits and educational programming. 

Wayne County boasts a rich history of agriculture, which can be explored at the Buckeye Agricultural Museum and Educational Center. Open the second Saturday of each month, it’s a destination that allows visitors to learn how farming impacted the area. 

Get a taste of local agriculture at stops like Rittman Orchards & Farm Market in Doylestown, where you can purchase fresh fruits and vegetables. Moreland Fruit Farm in Wooster also offers seasonal produce and the chance to pick your own fruits, from blackberries and grapes in the summer to apples and pumpkins in the fall. Top off the adventure with a scoop of ice cream from one of the county’s many shops, such as Hartzler Dairy in Wooster and the Dalton Dariette. For more information go to visitwaynecountyohio.com. 

Summit County

Get ready to explore Summit County this summer, where outdoor adventure, arts and culture, and family fun come together.

Hike, bike or paddle your way through the 33,000-acre Cuyahoga Valley National Park or Summit Metro Parks system, which has 16 different parks, two nature centers and more than 150 miles of trails (including 22 miles of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail). Afterward, cool off by tubing the Cuyahoga River or taking a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Don’t miss Brandywine Falls, a stunning 60-foot cascading waterfall located within Ohio’s only national park.

Visit Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, the beautifully preserved estate and former home of Goodyear co-founder F.A. Seiberling. Then, get up close with over 2,000 animals at the Akron Zoo. 

Families and history buffs alike will enjoy hands-on fun at the Akron Children’s Museum, inspiring exhibits at the Akron Art Museum and aviation adventures at MAPS Air Museum. Step back in time at Hale Farm & Village or tour the historic Perkins Stone Mansion to experience life in a different era. Wrap up your trip with a ball game at Canal Park, home of the Akron RubberDucks, the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians. Start planning your family getaway today at visitakron-summit.org, and check out the Summit County Visitors Guide for more information about destinations in Summit County. 

Lehman’s

Family fun is close to home this season at Lehman’s in Kidron, where you can find home and garden needs while spending time with those you love most.

Lehman’s has been a family business since Jay Lehman founded the store in 1955 as a way to provide the Amish community with goods that don’t require electricity to use. Today, the store continues this mission, serving both the Amish and non-Amish communities and providing goods that help people lean into the simple life.  

Lehman’s is where practical meets pretty, with home and decor items for sale like tex-tiles, outdoor furniture, storage solutions and more. Since this is the season for being outside, garden supplies also abound, with tools and accessories for all gardens, as well as needs for other outdoor activities including woodworking, camping, home-steading and beekeeping. 

There is plenty for the kids here as well, with a selection of toys, books and games for sale. Simple, non-electric children’s toys line the shelves, and outdoor toys like an Amish-crafted croquet set and toy archery set encourage kids to get out and play. 

Celebrate the sunny season with the family at Lehman’s on July 12 during the Summer Celebration. This event also honors Lehman’s 70th anniversary and features inflatables, cotton candy, balloon art, ice cream, music and more. For more information, visit lehmans.com.

Ohio’s Grand Lake Region

Gather the family and head to Ohio’s Grand Lake Region for a weekend packed with entertainment, history and lakeside relaxation. Start your visit with a day on the water at the 13,500-acre Grand Lake St. Marys, a playground for boaters and a gateway to countless adventures the whole family can enjoy. Dock-and-dine restaurants like Lakeside Hideout, the Shingle Shack and Boardwalk Grill make it easy and fun to cruise in for a meal. With laid-back patio seating and a family-friendly vibe, each spot dishes out signature eats like mushroom burgers, street corn pizza, fish tacos and more — perfect fuel after a day on the water.

Be sure to explore historic downtown Wapakoneta, home of legendary astronaut Neil Armstrong. Browse unique shops like Frost Impressions, which offers boutique cloth-ing, and Relics, which houses a unique collection of vintage items. After shopping, en-joy wood-fired pizza at J. Marie’s and pay a visit to the Armstrong Air & Space Museum for an inspiring look at space exploration.

Cap off the weekend with a journey into Ohio’s canal heritage. Bike or hike the scenic towpath trail of the Miami & Erie Canal, where families can tour the Lockkeeper’s House in New Bremen, which is also home to the Bicycle Museum of America. Whether you’re boating, biking, or browsing, the region offers a memorable escape full of family-friendly fun. For more information, visit seemore.org/dream.

Visit Findlay

Family fun is waiting to be had in Findlay, where a plethora of exciting activities come together to create an unforgettable experience — all while keeping your budget in mind.

Sports fans won’t want to miss a Flag City Sluggers game this summer. The Sluggers, a collegiate summer league baseball team, are launching their inaugural season, and tickets are just $5. The Mazza Museum, a one-of-a-kind art destination featuring original illustrations from children’s books, is located on the beautiful University of Findlay campus and offers free admission for all ages. Train enthusiasts can explore the Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation’s museum and enjoy quarter-scale train rides during special events and summer hours.

Families can also groove to live music in the park, sample sweet treats at Dietsch Brothers Fine Chocolates & Ice Cream, level up at Main Street Deli & Arcade, create a take-home masterpiece at Painters’ Pottery, splash around at a community pool or explore one of Findlay’s many parks. Plan your trip around can’t-miss events like Flag City BalloonFest, Fourth of July festivities, ArtWalk, Car Tunes and more.

While enjoying all the community has to offer, be sure to stop and pose for photos along the Findlay-Hancock County mural trail, which offers interactive stops that are perfect for taking memorable snapshots. For more information, go to visitfindlay.com.

Medina County

Visit Medina County for a weekend of family fun. Stay at the Holiday Inn in Medina, which serves as a central location to both Wadsworth and Brunswick and features comfortable accommodations. A free breakfast makes mornings easy, and an indoor pool provides a great place to play. 

Sweeten your visit to Medina County with a visit to Dolce at the Strand in Wadsworth. Serving up milkshakes and 16 flavors of sweet Italian gelato, it’s the perfect place to treat the family. Not sure which flavor to go with? Go for the gelato flight that lets you try six different flavors. 

Over in Brunswick, take a stroll through Market 42. Here, you’ll find several vendors for food, as well as accessories, jewelry, home goods and more. Market 42 is also the per-fect place to stop for a meal, with several food choices that can satisfy any palate, from Indian fusion and custom fruit bowls to pasta and ice cream treats. Visit during one of the farmers markets or special events for an extra taste of local fare. 

Back in Medina, pay a visit to Majestic Meadows for a self-guided walking tour where you’ll meet several furry friends such as alpacas, llamas, kangaroos, mini cows, pigs, goats and more. End the day at Foundry Social for classic arcade games and duckpin bowling, as well as go-karting at the adjoining High Voltage Karting. For more information, go to visitmedinacounty.com.

Muskingum County

Discover history, nature and family fun in Muskingum County this summer. Spend a day exploring the scenery at Dillon State Park in Nashport. Featuring a public swim-ming beach, storybook trail, fishing, disc golf, camping and more, there are plenty of ways to get out and explore. 

You can also get out to enjoy the sunshine along the Muskingum River via tube or kayak with Float the River. Book a tube for a one- or two-hour float or a kayak for a 45-to-90-minute paddle. 

Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl has been a local favorite since 1957 and is the perfect place to stop for a sweet treat. Enjoy seasonal and standard flavors, as well as towering sundae creations. 

Explore artwork at the Alan Cottrill Sculpture Studio & Gallery in Zanesville. Cottrill creates cast-bronze sculptures in his downtown studio, and guests can explore the second floor of his studio, which features a gallery of his impressive works. 

East of Zanesville, the village of New Concord offers the chance to explore the life of John Glenn. Visit the John & Annie Glenn Museum to step into the life of this hometown hero. 

The Wilds in Cumberland has long been a family favorite in Muskingum County. The safari park offers several activities like zip lining, horseback riding and fishing, as well as safari tours, where you can see animals like rhinos, giraffes, cheetahs and many others. For more information, go to visitzanesville.com.

Stay in Akron 

Make this summer unforgettable with family-friendly fun all around Akron. From exciting festivals to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Start your summer with rhythm and energy at one of Akron’s live outdoor concerts, perfect for a warm evening under the stars. Whether you’re into classic rock, jazz or pop hits, the city’s music scene and lineup of great outdoor concerts will have you dancing in the grass all season long.

For curious young minds, the Akron Children’s Museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on play that sparks creativity and learning — a perfect indoor break on hot summer days.

Looking to get active together? Explore Akron’s scenic bike trails, where winding paths and natural views provide the perfect backdrop for some quality time on two wheels. A portion of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail also passes through downtown. 

Baseball lovers can root for the home team during an Akron RubberDucks game at downtown’s Canal Park, where affordable tickets, tasty snacks and post-game fire-works make the experience a grand slam for all ages.

And don’t miss the colorful spectacle of the All-American Soap Box Derby Parade, where creativity and community combine in a beloved Akron tradition that is sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. No matter how you spend it, Akron is the place to be for a summer full of memory-making. For more information, visit stayinakron.com.

Hideaway on the Hocking 

For your family’s next getaway to Athens, Ohio, make plans to stay at Hideaway on the Hocking. This new lodging option offers nine vacation rentals that encourage spend-ing time in the great outdoors while also providing luxurious accommodations for ultimate comfort. Five of the nine lodging options are housed within repurposed train cabooses, which are certain to be a favorite for visiting families.

Rental options include the five railcars, three River Retreats and the Depot. All railcars sleep up to four guests, except for The Little Yellow Caboose which can sleep three. Games, books, a firepit and grill, as well as a welcome basket with local goods, are sure to enhance the experience for the whole family.

The River Retreats offer modern style and comforts with a view of the Hocking River, and the Depot is great for larger families as it can accommodate up to six guests. 

Hideaway on the Hocking offers several experiences that can be added on to a stay. Churn homemade ice cream and enjoy cones and sundaes with all the fixings or enjoy a s’mores smorgasbord with unique flavors like chocolate-and-strawberry. Get out in nature for a picnic lunch from Happy Snacking Athens, have a five-star meal prepared right in your caboose or cabin, or even book a private music performance for the family. For more information, visit hideawayonthehocking.com.

Seneca Lake

The largest lake in the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District — spanning 3,550 acres of water — Seneca Lake is a go-to destination for outdoor lovers. From boating, fishing and swimming to hiking and wildlife watching, the area delivers a full slate of outdoor activities. Anglers will find excellent opportunities to reel in bass, crappie and catfish, while families can look forward to the newly renovated campgrounds, cozy lakeside cabins, picnic areas and miles of hiking trails that wind through scenic wood-lands.

The 399-horsepower-limit lake features a full-service marina that provides boat rentals and docking, as well as casual lakeside dining at the Dockside Restaurant, which serves lunch and dinner that can be enjoyed with indoor and outdoor seating options. The park also offers a variety of recreational facilities, including playgrounds, volley-ball and pickleball ball courts, a storybook trail and a sandy beach complete with a concession stand.

A standout this year is the addition of a new splash pad, which features water slides, interactive fountains and shaded seating. It’s designed with families in mind, offering a safe and refreshing spot for kids to play while adults can relax and unwind nearby. 

Whether you’re looking for a serene weekend getaway or a pleasant way to spend a sunny afternoon, Seneca Lake combines natural beauty with modern amenities for a memorable outdoor experience for all ages. To reserve your campsite, cabin or boat rental, visit mwcd.org.

Visit Canton

Plan a trip to Canton this summer and treat the kids to the area’s museums, which offer a glimpse of local history and several special events to enjoy.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is a great destination for football fans of all ages. Visitors can learn about the evolution of the NFL over the years and enjoy special events like the NFL Flag Championships being played July 17 through 20 at ForeverLawn Sports Complex in Hall of Fame Village.

Visit the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum to learn about the life of our 25th president and enjoy exhibits like the Discover World Science Center and planetarium shows that explore the skies above. Science Saturdays feature special events and activities, and families with children 12 and under can enjoy free admission on June 4.

Learn about the lasting legacy of our nation’s first ladies at the “The Eras Exhibit,” now on view at the First Ladies National Library & Museum. The exhibit uses artifacts that once belonged to the first ladies to explore their impact over the years. In conjunction with the exhibit, the Stark Library hosts a variety of events that are great for families with little ones.

At the Massillon Museum, families can also enjoy kid-friendly classes, as well as work-shops that let guests of all ages create a small craft project. For more information, go to visitcanton.com.

Visit Greater Lima

Experience the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, family fun and hidden gems this summer in Greater Lima.

Young explorers will love the Children’s Garden, a free attraction that is conveniently located next to the Allen County Museum, which features a fun and educational children’s discovery area inside. The community’s expansive park system — encompass-ing both Lima City Parks and the Johnny Appleseed Metro Park District — offers scenic hiking trails, fishing spots, splash pads, camping and kayaking. Bring your own gear to paddle through the Johnny Appleseed Metro Park District parks or rent kayaks at Schoonover Lake.

Celebrate a major milestone at the 175th Allen County Fair, which is packed with crowd-pleasing rides, tasty fair food and family-friendly shows. This year’s concert features contemporary Christian artist Lauren Daigle.

Looking for even more adventure? Check out the Visit Greater Lima GeoTrail, a geo-caching adventure that guides families to unique local spots. This trail is perfect for families looking to explore the area and adds an additional level of excitement with hunting for geocaches. For more information, go to visitgreaterlima.com.

Tecumseh!

Summer in Ohio wouldn’t be complete without the tradition of “Tecumseh!” at Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre in Chillicothe. Visitors can book standard tickets online in ad-vance, but this summer brings two opportunities to upgrade your “Tecumseh!” experience. 

Book a VIP ticket for $50, which includes the standard reserved seating, free parking and cancellation insurance, as well as perks such as a VIP tote bag, program or poster for the show, a behind-the-scenes tour and a meet-and-greet with the cast after the performance. This elevated experience allows guests to learn more about the beloved summertime tradition and is only available to 100 guests per show. 

Those looking to see “Tecumseh!” and explore more of the city of Chillicothe should check out the Wilderness Adventure Pass. Limited to only 50 guests per show, these $75 tickets come with a free Pepsi product, collectible lanyard and $10 gift card to the gift shop or gallery. Plus, the Wilderness Adventure Pass offers free admission to Ade-na Mansion and other museums across Ross County.

Wilderness Adventure Pass holders also get to participate in the meet-and-greet for their chosen show. These meet-and-greets provide guests the exclusive opportunity to visit with anywhere from five to 10 actors on a given night. Grab an autograph from the cast and snap a picture with your favorite performers. For more information, visit tecumsehdrama.com.

Huntington, West Virginia 

Huntington, West Virginia, offers a wealth of family-focused attractions that celebrate Appalachian heritage, outdoor adventure and vibrant arts and culture. With the Huntington Fun Pass, visitors can enjoy discounts at several top destinations from May through October. 

The Heritage Farm Museum and Village honors Appalachian history and culture through immersive exhibits and hands-on experiences. This open-air, living-history destination also recently introduced an Adventure Park that features the RedTail Racers dual zip line — that soars 1,100 feet across the valley — and the TalithaKoum aerial challenge course, which features three levels of rope and cable bridges.

Camden Park, a 26-acre amusement park, has more than 30 rides and attractions. Its centerpiece is the Big Dipper, a traditional wooden roller coaster built in 1958 that is recognized as the largest and oldest roller coaster in West Virginia.

Rustic Ravines offers deluxe cabin rentals and some of the state’s best ATV and hiking trails. Guests can also enjoy kayaking, canoeing, a bow range, fishing, hunting and golfing at this pet- and horse-friendly resort. 

For arts and culture enthusiasts, the Huntington Museum of Art has 31 galleries of American art and is home to the C. Fred Edwards Conservatory, which opened in 1996 and is the state’s only plant conservatory.

Start planning your trip by downloading the free Fun Pass at the Huntington Area Convention & Visitors Bureau website. Go to visithuntington.org/funpass for more in-formation.

Parkersburg, West Virginia 

A family road trip from Ohio to Parkersburg, West Virginia, offers a delightful blend of history, hands-on learning and outdoor adventure. 

Begin your journey with a visit to Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park. Accessible via a 20-minute sternwheeler ride from Point Park, the island invites families to explore a reconstructed 18th-century mansion, enjoy horse-drawn wagon rides and stroll scenic trails. Bicycle rentals are available, or you can bring your own to explore the is-land’s natural beauty. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy under the towering black walnut trees. 

Next, head to Discovery World on Market, located at 900 Market St. in downtown Parkersburg. This children’s museum is designed for young learners, offering interactive STEAM exhibits like the River Adventure, where kids can engage with water play stations, and the Ball Factory, which emphasizes teamwork through kinetic activities. The museum also hosts special events, such as themed character breakfasts and workshops. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, the North Bend Rail Trail provides a 72-mile stretch perfect for biking. This trail, part of the American Discovery Trail, features 13 tunnels and 36 bridges, weaving through picturesque landscapes and small towns. It’s an ideal setting for families to discover the region’s rich history. 

Parkersburg’s blend of educational attractions and outdoor activities makes it a memorable destination for families seeking both fun and enrichment. Visit greaterparkersburg.com for 
more information. 

Ark Encounter 

Experience a massive adventure with a visit to the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky. This full-size replica of Noah’s Ark — built to biblical specifications (510 feet long, 85 feet wide and 51 feet high) stands as a stunning piece of craftsmanship. Inside, explore three decks packed with immersive exhibits, each with their own focus.

On the first deck, discover how Noah may have housed and cared for thousands of animals and find possible answers to questions like “How did all the animals fit?” and “What did Noah’s daily life look like?” The second deck teaches about the culture of the time and explains why God would send a global flood. On the third deck, visitors can step into the beautifully re-created living quarters to see how Noah and his family may have survived on board the ark for nearly a year.

The adventure continues outside with the Ararat Ridge Zoo and kids petting zoo, a playground for children of all abilities, a virtual reality experience, an animal-themed carousel and more. Summer events include Gospel Weekends (May 30 through July 6) and 40 Days of Christian Music (July 29 to Sept. 6), the latter of which features 120 concerts from top Christian artists. For more information go to arkencounter.com/visit.