What Is Ohio Known For? [2025]

Ohio is best known for its world-renowned attractions like Cedar Point and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the iconic Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and as the birthplace of several U.S. presidents and the Wright brothers.

Whether you’re making the move to the Midwest or visiting for the first time, you might be wondering, “What is Ohio known for?” From the rolling Hocking Hills region to the bustling cityscapes of Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus, Ohio offers something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best of Ohio to give you a glimpse of what life is like in the Buckeye State.

What Is Ohio Best Known For?

What Are the Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Ohio?

Whether it’s music, film, wildlife, or the rush of a high-speed ride, each Ohio attraction puts it on the map as both a travel destination and a place of pride for locals.

Cedar Point Amusement Park

Also known as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World, Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, has been thrilling guests since 1870. The park features more than 70 rides, including 18 roller coasters that’ll thrill any adrenaline junkie. Beyond the coasters, Cedar Point also has a waterpark, resorts, and a beach along Lake Erie. Seasonal events, like HalloWeekends, keep families coming back year after year.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Cleveland’s most famous landmark is a striking I.M. Pei-designed building on the shore of Lake Erie. Inside, visitors can explore the history of rock music through memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and tributes to legendary artists. The museum honors not just performers but also producers, songwriters, and others who shaped the industry. For music lovers, it’s both a cultural touchstone and a reason Cleveland stays on the map.

'A Christmas Story' House

Fans of the 1983 holiday classic can tour the actual house where “A Christmas Story” was filmed. The home has been restored to its movie-era look, complete with the leg lamp in the front window. Inside, visitors can see original props and step into scenes that feel frozen in time. Around the holidays, it’s especially popular with families looking to relive the nostalgia of Ralphie’s Christmas.

Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Opened in 1875, the Cincinnati Zoo is one of the oldest zoological parks in the country and a leader in wildlife conservation. It’s home to endangered species like gorillas and cheetahs, and it has earned a reputation for its successful breeding programs. The grounds also include lush botanical gardens with thousands of plant species. Seasonal events, such as the Festival of Lights, make the zoo a year-round attraction.

What Are the Best Parks and Natural Attractions in Ohio?

The natural beauty of Ohio is often underrated, but its parks and outdoor spaces rival some of the country’s best. Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or kayaking, the state’s national and state parks deliver a mix of adventure and calm.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park spans 33,000 acres of forest, waterfalls, and trails. The park is a haven for hiking, biking, and bird-watching, and the scenic Cuyahoga River winds through it all.

One of the park's most iconic features is Brandywine Falls: a 60-foot waterfall, accessible via a boardwalk, which offers a stunning display of nature's power and serenity.

Hocking Hills State Park

Located in southern Ohio, Hocking Hills is one of the state’s most striking natural areas. Visitors come for dramatic sandstone cliffs, hidden caves, and waterfalls like Cedar Falls. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Hocking Hills to rock climb, kayak, and escape the city with a weekend camping trip. Seasonal festivals and events add to its year-round appeal.

Lake Erie

Lake Erie is Ohio’s gateway to the Great Lakes, offering both natural beauty and recreation. The lake is popular for boating, fishing, and swimming, with beaches dotting its shoreline. Islands like South Bass Island and Kelleys Island add to its charm, drawing vacationers each summer. Beyond recreation, the lake supports thriving waterfront communities and a strong fishing industry.

The Ohio River

Ohio’s southern border follows the Ohio River, a waterway that has shaped the state’s economy and culture. Historically, it was vital for trade and transportation, as it linked Ohio to the Mississippi River system. Today, the river is a destination for boating, fishing, and riverside festivals. Scenic parks and towns along its banks continue to celebrate its significance.

What Is Ohio’s Historical and Cultural Significance?

Ohio’s history is woven into the fabric of the United States, shaping politics, aviation, medicine, and space exploration.

The Wright Brothers

Ohio is proudly known as the Birthplace of Aviation thanks to Orville and Wilbur Wright. From their bicycle shop in Dayton, the brothers designed and built the first successful airplane. Their 1903 flight at Kitty Hawk changed the world and ushered in a new era of transportation. Today, Dayton honors their legacy with museums and historic sites dedicated to their work.

Birthplace of John Glenn and Neil Armstrong

Ohio proudly claims the distinction of being the birthplace of two of America's most illustrious astronauts, John Glenn and Neil Armstrong. John Glenn, from Cambridge, became the first American to orbit Earth in 1962, while Neil Armstrong, from Wapakoneta, became the first human to walk on the moon in 1969.

Birthplace of Eight U.S. Presidents

Ohio holds a unique spot in political history as the birthplace of eight presidents, including Ulysses S. Grant, William McKinley, and William Howard Taft, among others. Collectively, these leaders influenced eras ranging from the Civil War to the early 20th century. Presidential homes and libraries across the state highlight this legacy for history buffs.

Cleveland Clinic

Beyond politics and aviation, Ohio has also played a prominent role in medical and healthcare innovation. The Cleveland Clinic consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the world for cardiology, oncology, and neurology. It’s a hub of research, medical education, and patient care that draws people from around the world. The hospital is also one of Ohio’s largest employers, anchoring Cleveland’s economy.

What Are Ohio’s Most Famous Foods?

Food is one of the easiest ways to get to know Ohio, and its specialties are as distinctive as they are beloved. Influenced by immigrant traditions and local creativity, Ohio’s food scene blends comfort with quirk.

Buckeyes

Ohio’s identity is inseparable from the buckeye—the small, glossy nut that gave the state its nickname: the Buckeye State. The nut itself comes from the Ohio buckeye tree and is said to resemble the eye of a deer, which is how it got its name. Considered a token of good luck, the buckeye has become one of the state’s most recognizable symbols. Even the Ohio State University adopted the Buckeyes as its team name, weaving the symbol into sports, culture, and everyday pride.

While the nut isn’t edible, Ohioans celebrate it every fall with festivals, crafts, and of course, buckeye candy: rich peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate that are as iconic as they are delicious.

Cincinnati Chili

Few foods spark as much debate—and devotion—as Cincinnati chili. This spiced meat sauce is served over spaghetti or hot dogs and layered with toppings like onions, beans, and mountains of shredded cheese. It’s not your typical chili, which is exactly why it has such a loyal following. Local chains like Skyline Chili and Gold Star Chili keep the tradition alive, and for Ohioans, grabbing a “three-way” or “five-way” is part of the culture.

Goetta

A specialty of Cincinnati’s German-American community, goetta (pronounced “GET-tuh”) is a sausage or loaf made with pork, beef, and oats. It’s typically pan-fried and eaten at breakfast, though some restaurants serve it in burgers or sandwiches.

Klondike Bars

The classic chocolate-coated ice cream bar was born in Ohio in the early 1920s. The original treat has since expanded into dozens of flavors and remains a nostalgic dessert across the country.

What Are the Top Cultural Attractions in Ohio?

Ohio’s arts, architecture, and cultural landmarks add depth to its identity, showcasing a side of the state that goes beyond roller coasters and football.

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Located in Columbus, this Victorian glasshouse is one of Ohio’s most beautiful indoor-outdoor attractions. It showcases desert, tropical, and seasonal plant collections alongside installations from artists like Dale Chihuly. Families, students, and tourists come for both the greenery and the events hosted year-round. It’s a reminder that Ohio’s capital has more than just politics and football.

Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art houses an impressive collection spanning over 60,000 works of art. Visitors can explore diverse collections, including ancient Egyptian artifacts, European masterpieces from the Renaissance to Postimpressionism, and contemporary art installations. The museum also hosts engaging exhibitions and educational programs, making it a cultural gem in the heart of Cleveland.

The museum is also a center for artistic expression and cultural exchange, frequently hosting artist talks, film screenings, and musical performances.

Great Lakes Brewing Company

As one of the Midwest’s pioneering craft breweries, Great Lakes Brewing Company has been a local institution since 1988—and even helped put Ohio on the craft beer map. Its flagship beers like Dortmunder Gold and Christmas Ale have devoted followings, and its brewpub is a Cleveland staple. Sustainability is a core focus, with the brewery sourcing local ingredients and recycling spent grain.

Ohio State Reformatory

This Gothic prison, which closed in 1990, is now a mix of history and hauntings. Fans of “The Shawshank Redemption” visit because parts of the movie were filmed in this location. Others come for ghost tours and paranormal investigations, making it one of Ohio’s spookiest attractions. The site blends history with pop culture in a uniquely Ohio way.

The Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

Home to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force, Wright-Patterson is central to Ohio’s aviation legacy. The museum is the world’s largest of its kind, featuring aircraft from every era of military history. Beyond the museum, the base continues to be a hub of aerospace research and development. Its influence on both local jobs and national defense is significant.

What Is the No. 1 University in Ohio?

Ohio is a hub for higher education, with universities that draw students from around the world.

The Ohio State University (OSU) is arguably the state’s most popular institution and one of the largest universities in the country. Known for its research programs and diverse academic offerings, the school attracts tens of thousands of students from around the globe every year. Outside the classroom, its football team—the Buckeyes—has become a cultural phenomenon. Game days in Columbus transform the city into a sea of scarlet and gray.

Beyond OSU, Ohio’s many respected private schools and regional campuses help fuel the state economy, shape its cities, and define the student experience across the Midwest.

What Are the Three C’s in Ohio?

Ohio is often celebrated for its Three C’s: Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, three of the state's most dynamic and populous cities. Each of the Three C’s offers a different flavor of Ohio life:

• Cleveland sits on Lake Erie and is known for its music legacy, museums, and sports.
• Columbus, the state capital, is a hub for education, startups, and fashion, fueled by OSU’s massive student population.
• Cincinnati blends historic architecture with a thriving food scene and a love of baseball.

What’s the Sports Scene Like in Ohio?

Sports are practically a second language in Ohio. Whether it’s baseball, basketball, or football, Ohioans are fiercely loyal fans.

The state is home to historic franchises, including the Cincinnati Reds, which is one of the oldest MLB teams, and NFL teams such as the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Cleveland Cavaliers made history with their 2016 NBA championship, ending the city’s decades-long title drought. College football is just as important—Ohio State’s Buckeyes command a nationwide following.

What Are Ohio’s Most Popular Events?

Festivals and fairs keep Ohio lively year-round, blending small-town traditions with big-city energy.

• The Circleville Pumpkin Show is one of the largest small-town festivals in the U.S., attracting more than 400,000 visitors each fall with giant pumpkins, parades, and pumpkin-flavored everything.
• The Ohio State Fair in Columbus is another summer highlight, blending concerts, rides, and agricultural showcases.
• Cincinnati’s Oktoberfest Zinzinnati is billed as the largest Oktoberfest in the country and the largest outside of Munich.

Fun Facts About Ohio

Behind the big attractions, Ohio also has its share of quirks that appeal to locals and out-of-towners alike.

Amish Country

Ohio's Amish Country, which is one of the largest Amish settlements in the world, sprawls across the rolling hills of the state's northeast. The region offers visitors a glimpse into a simpler way of life, characterized by traditional farming methods, horse-drawn carriages, and a deeply intertwined community.

Castles

Ohio might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of castles, but the state houses several stunning structures that echo the beauty of European fortresses. From the medieval-inspired Loveland Castle Museum to the majestic Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron, these landmarks blend history, architecture, and the allure of bygone eras.

Cornhole

In Ohio, cornhole isn’t just a backyard game. It’s part of the culture. Said to have originated in Cincinnati, the beanbag toss has grown from a casual pastime to a serious competitive sport. Across the state, you’ll find organized leagues, weekend tournaments, and even national events like the American Cornhole Organization World Championships. Whether at tailgates, barbecues, or big competitions, cornhole in Ohio is all about tradition.

What’s It Like to Rent in Ohio?

Ohio offers plenty of unique living options for renters—from the urban neighborhoods of Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland, to the quieter, more suburban areas that offer spacious living and close-knit communities. With lower housing costs, Ohio appeals to students, young professionals, and families alike. For those looking to relocate, it’s a state where your money stretches further.

Here’s a look at average rents across Ohio’s most popular areas for renters:

|Area|Average One-Bedroom Rent|Average Two-Bedroom Rent| |Cleveland|$1,645|$2,156| |Columbus|$1,445|$1,694| |Cincinnati|$1,567|$2,018| |Toledo|$1,095|$1,108| |Akron|$690|$875|

Major cities like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati offer a mix of downtown apartments and suburban rentals at prices lower than the national average. A one-bedroom typically ranges from $690 in Akron to $1,645 in Cleveland, giving renters plenty of options across budgets.

Average rent prices come from our expansive database of rental estimates across the United States, which has been cross-referenced with city data from Rent.com.

Find an Apartment in Ohio

Searching for a cozy studio in the heart of Downtown Cincinnati? Want a spacious family home in the suburbs of Columbus? No matter which area of Ohio’s calling to you, we’ll help you find a place that feels like home.

Take the personalized Apartment List quiz and get matched with places that fit your budget, lifestyle, and expectations. With us, you’ll spend five minutes and save 50 hours searching.

FAQs About Ohio and What It’s Best Known For

What is Ohio famous for?

Ohio is most famous for Cedar Point Amusement Park, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Ohio River, and its role in U.S. aviation history.

What are three fun facts about Ohio?

• Birthplace of Superman: While not technically a real person, the iconic superhero was created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster, both from Cleveland, Ohio.
• Home to the world's largest basket: Standing tall in Licking County, Ohio, is a seven-story building shaped like a basket, officially recognized as the Guinness World Record-holder for the Largest Basket in the World.
• Illegal to fish for whales on Sundays: Though seemingly an unusual law, it's actually illegal to fish for whales on Sundays in Ohio. This likely stems from a time when Ohio lacked any significant bodies of water where whales could be found, but the quirky law remains on the books.

What is the oldest landmark in Ohio?

The Serpent Mound, an ancient Native American effigy mound believed to be over 1,000 years old, is considered one of Ohio’s oldest landmarks.

What is a unique roadside attraction in Ohio?

The Longaberger Basket Building in Newark, shaped like a giant picnic basket, is one of Ohio’s most unique and quirky landmarks.

What are the most visited places in Ohio?

Cedar Point and Cuyahoga Valley National Park consistently rank among Ohio’s top destinations for both in-state and out-of-state visitors.

Is Ohio a good state for students?

Yes. Ohio has more than 200 colleges and universities, including the Ohio State University, Case Western Reserve University, and the University of Cincinnati, making it a strong choice for students seeking higher education.

Which Ohio city is best for renters?

The “best” Ohio city for renters depends on your lifestyle and priorities. Cleveland is ideal for the arts and lakefront living, Columbus offers a young and energetic vibe, and Cincinnati combines historic charm with strong job opportunities. If you want city access with a quieter, suburban feel, check out Newark.

Check out our list of the best places to live in Ohio to find the city that feels right for you.

Is Ohio expensive to live in?

Ohio is considered one of the more affordable states to live in. According to Sperling’s BestPlaces, the cost of living in Ohio is 17.3% below the national average, making it the 14th-cheapest state in the U.S.

What makes Ohio unique compared to other Midwest states?

Ohio combines big-city culture, a lower cost of living, and easy access to both Great Lakes and Appalachian landscapes, making it more varied than many of its neighbors.