Romantic Day Trips in Ohio
Planning a romantic day trip in Ohio? You’re in luck! Ohio is home to plenty of great destinations that are perfect for couples looking to spend some quality time together.
If you’re looking for a romantic day trips in Ohio, here are some ideas to make your partner feel special. From exploring charming small towns to spending time in nature, there’s something for everyone. Get ready to fall in love all over again as you explore Ohio together!
Romantic Day Trips in Ohio
1. Cleveland
Cleveland is a great city for a romantic day trip in Ohio. Located on the shores of Lake Erie, Cleveland boasts beautiful views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. It’s also home to many museums and cultural attractions such as Cleveland Music of Arts, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, etc.
If you’re looking for something to do together, take a walk, a bike ride, or a horse-drawn carriage ride along the scenic lakefront. If you’re looking for something more active, try paddle boarding or kayaking on the lake. You can also explore the city’s many parks or visit the zoo or botanical gardens.
Afterward, treat your special someone to a delicious dinner at one of Cleveland’s many fine restaurants. To top off the perfect day, take in a show at Playhouse Square, one of the largest performing arts centers in the country. With so many things to do, Cleveland is the perfect destination.
2. Columbus
If you don’t want to go far from the big city but still want to enjoy a romantic day trip in Ohio, then Columbus is the perfect destination. There are tons of things to see and do, whether you’re interested in history, art, or just spending time outdoors. Start your day at the Columbus Museum of Art, where you can stroll hand-in-hand through the galleries.
Then head to the German Village for lunch at one of the many charming cafes and bakeries. In the afternoon, take a walk-through Scioto Mile Park, which offers gorgeous views of the downtown skyline. Finally, end your day with a romantic dinner at one of Columbus’s top restaurants. Based on your interests, you can choose from a variety of different cuisines.
Some other places that you might want to consider visiting are the Franklin Park Conservatory, the Short North Arts District, and the Ohio Statehouse. Columbus is also home to several parks and green spaces, making it the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll with your loved one. Whether you’re looking for a fun filled day or a leisurely weekend getaway, Columbus is the perfect place for a romantic escape.
3. Hocking Hills
Just a short drive from the bustling city of Columbus, Ohio, lies the picturesque Hocking Hills region. This area is beloved for its beautiful hiking trails, which wind through forests and past waterfalls. Hocking Hills is also home to many towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests, making it the perfect place to explore with your special someone.
If you and your partner love hiking together, then you’ll want to explore one of the many trails in Hocking Hills. There are several different trails to choose from, so you can find one that’s perfect for your fitness level, including Rock House Trail, Old Man’s Cave Trail, and Ash Cave Trail. Canoeing is another popular activity in Hocking Hills to enjoy with your love.
After a day of hiking, relax and enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the many scenic spots. Hocking Hills is also home to a number of different restaurants to treat your loved one to a special dinner. Whether you are looking for an active or a more low-key vacation, the Hocking Hills region has something to offer every couple.
4. Yellow Springs
Have you ever wanted to get away for a romantic weekend but didn’t have the time or money to plan an elaborate trip? If you live in Ohio, there’s no need to go far – Yellow Springs makes for a perfectly romantic day trip. Just a short drive from Dayton, Yellow Springs is home to Antioch College, Young’s Jersey Dairy, and John Bryan State Park.
Stroll hand-in-hand down the quaint Main Street lined with unique shops and galleries, then explore the beautiful grounds of Antioch College. Then you can go to the Glendower Historic Estate, a beautiful park with towering trees and blooming flowers. Afterward, head into town for some shopping and lunch at one of the local cafes.
Be sure to stop by the Little Art Theater, where you can catch an independent film or enjoy a live performance. As the day ends, take a leisurely walk-through Young’s Jersey Dairy farm, where you can feed the cows and purchase some delicious ice cream. With its charming atmosphere and abundance of things to do, Yellow Springs is sure to make your heart soar.
5. Little Miami Scenic Trail
The Little Miami Scenic River Trail is a perfect destination for a romantic day trip in southwest Ohio. Stretching for over 78 miles, the trail winds through five different counties, so there’s always something new to see, including forests, farmland, and quaint towns. It is the perfect setting for a leisurely hike or bike ride. Along the way, you’ll have ample opportunities to take in the stunning scenery and perhaps even spot some wildlife.
The trailhead is located just a short drive from Cincinnati, making it an easy trip for city dwellers looking to escape the hustle and bustle for a day. The place is blanketed in wildflowers in the spring and summer, and the leaves turn to stunning shades of crimson and gold in the fall. Best of all, the trail is open year-round, so you can enjoy it no matter what time of year it is.
If you’re feeling hungry, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes located near the trailhead. And once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can picnic in one of the many scenic overlooks. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in nature or an active adventure, the Little Miami Scenic Trail is sure to please.
6. Amish Country
Ohio’s Amish Country is a popular destination for romantic getaways. The area is home to many quaint towns and villages, each with its unique atmosphere, many of which are nestled in the rolling hills of Ohio’s scenic countryside. From the quaint shops of Sugarcreek to the rolling hills of Berlin, there’s plenty to explore.
Visitors can explore Tuscora Park, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, or visit one of the many local shops and galleries. There are also many charming bed and breakfasts, perfect for a romantic date. Moreover, couples can enjoy various seasonal activities, from apple picking in the fall to sledding in the winter.
For those looking to explore the area’s unique history and culture, there are many interesting museums and shops to visit. Best of all, the pace of life in Amish Country is slow and relaxing, making it the perfect place to escape the busy everyday life. Whether you’re looking for a quiet weekend escape or an action-packed day trip, Amish Country has something to offer every couple.
7. Marietta
This charming city of Marietta is located on the banks of the Ohio River and is full of historic charm, if you are looking for romantic day trips in Ohio then this is a good choice.
The charming town offers a variety of activities for couples, from riverboat cruises to horse-drawn carriage rides. There are also a number of interesting museums, art galleries, and antique shops to explore.
You can start your day with a stroll through Mound Cemetery, which is home to the largest collection of ancient burial mounds. Then, explore downtown Marietta and browse the quaint shops and galleries. Be sure to visit the Campus Martius Museum, which tells the story of early settlement in the Northwest Territory.
And, of course, no trip to Marietta would be complete without a visit to Six Flags White Water, one of the most popular attractions in the state. In the afternoon, take a leisurely riverboat cruise, bike ride, or go for a hike in one of the nearby state parks and hills. End your day with a romantic dinner at one of Marietta’s excellent restaurants.
8. Geneva-on-the-Lake
Geneva-on-the-Lake is a beautiful lakeside village in Ashtabula County, Ohio, about an hour’s drive from Cleveland. The town is situated on the shores of Lake Erie and offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the views. There are also several restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy a leisurely meal or snack.
In addition, Geneva-on-the-Lake is home to a number of exciting attractions, including the Geneva State Park Beach House and the Geneva State Park Observatory. Visitors can also go to Geneva Township Park, Breakwater Beach, etc. Couples can also take advantage of romantic activities, such as sunset cruises, canopy tours, etc.
For those looking for a more active adventure, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails in the area. And in the winter, couples can enjoy sledding, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. No matter what time of year it is, Geneva-on-the-Lake is a perfect destination for a romantic day trip.
9. Buckeye Lake
Buckeye Lake is the perfect place to be in with your other half if you are looking for romantic day trips in Ohio. The lake is located in Fairfield County, just a short drive from Columbus. Located in Licking County, the lake is surrounded by state parks and nature preserves, providing ample opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and simply enjoying the scenery. Buckeye Lake is especially lovely in the evening as the sun sets over the water.
The lake is a popular spot for swimming, boating, and fishing during the summer months. There are also several boat rental companies that offer kayaks, canoes, and pontoon boats. In the fall, the leaves change color, making it a beautiful place to take a walk or go for a scenic drive. And in the winter, the lake is transformed into a winter wonderland, with ice skating and sledding.
There are several restaurants in the area that offer outdoor seating with stunning views of the lake. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day in nature or a more adventurous outing, Buckeye Lake is the perfect place for a romantic day trip.
10. Maumee Bay State Park
Maumee Bay State Park is a beautiful place located on the shores of Lake Erie, and it offers a variety of activities for couples to enjoy. The park offers miles of bike path, an interpretive boardwalk, a mouse trail, as well as a variety of water activities. Visitors can paddle around in kayaks or canoes or take a leisurely stroll along the beach.
There are indoor and outdoor swimming pools and plenty of places to relax and take in the stunning views. It is also home to various wildlife, making it a perfect place for geocaching, bird-watching, and picnicking. The park has an 18-hole golf course, as well, to enjoy with your love.
After a day of exploring, you can relax in one of the park’s cozy cabins or campgrounds. With its scenic views and ample opportunities for adventure, Maumee Bay State Park is sure to make your heart skip a beat. With so much to do, you’re sure to create lasting memories.
11. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is located in northeastern Ohio between Akron and Cleveland. It is an ideal destination for a romantic day trip in Ohio for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors. The park is home to various landscapes, including river valleys, waterfalls, and woodlands.
The park is a popular destination for hiking, bicycling, and picnicking. There are also several Historic landmarks within the park which make for interesting sightseeing. Plus, the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad offers a unique way to see the park. Best of all, the national park is free to enter, making it a budget-friendly option for couples on a romantic getaway.
The park also has several restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy a romantic picnic lunch. Besides, it is home to various wildlife, making it a great place to see bald eagles, ospreys, and other birds. With so much to see and do, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the perfect place to spend a romantic day with your partner.
12. Cambridge
Situated in the picturesque rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, Cambridge is known for its quaint small-town charm. Visitors can step back in time as they stroll down beautiful streets and explore a variety of unique shops and boutiques. The town is also home to several historical buildings, including the Cambridge Glass Museum.
Some other places at Cambridge that are worth visiting include Dickens Victorian Village, Cambridge City Parks, Great Guernsey Trail, Byesville Scenic Railway, etc. Couples can also enjoy a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride or a leisurely stroll along the downtown riverwalk. For a more active day, there are a lot of trails and parks in the area, perfect for hiking or picnicking.
After a day of sightseeing, visitors can relax at one of the town’s cozy bed and breakfasts. Or, you can go to sample the local cuisine at one of the many popular restaurants throughout the area. With its quaint downtown and lovely natural and historical surroundings, Cambridge makes a great choice for a romantic day trip.
A romantic day trip is a great way to spend quality time with your loved one. Ohio is full of great destinations for couples looking to enjoy a romantic getaway. From exploring the state’s parks and trails to visiting its charming small towns, there are plenty of options for a perfect day together.
So, whether you’re planning a special anniversary trip or just looking for a way to show your love, consider one of these romantic day trips in Ohio. You’re sure to create lasting memories.
