Discovering Free Things to Do in Ohio

Ohio is a destination that offers plenty of free activities to keep the whole family entertained. From outdoor recreation to cultural sites, Ohio has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax, there is something for everyone in Ohio. Here are 12 free things to do in Ohio that are sure to make your trip a memorable one.

Explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park

The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a beautiful park that spans nearly 33,000 acres. The park is home to over 100 species of plants and animals, as well as numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks. There are also a variety of free programs and events offered throughout the year, including ranger-led hikes and canoe trips. The park is also home to the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which offers free rides on certain days.

The park also offers plenty of free activities for kids, such as nature walks and scavenger hunts. There is also a Visitors Center where visitors can learn more about the park and its history. The park is open year-round and is a great place to explore for free.

Visit the Statehouse

The Ohio Statehouse is a must-see for anyone visiting the state. The Statehouse is the oldest state capitol in the United States and is home to the Ohio General Assembly and the Governor’s office. The building is a stunning example of Greek Revival architecture and offers free tours throughout the year. Visitors can explore the building and learn about its history from knowledgeable docents. The Statehouse also offers free exhibits and events, such as lectures and concerts.

In addition, the Statehouse is home to the Ohio History Center, which offers free admission to its exhibits and programs. The center is home to a variety of artifacts, documents, and photos related to Ohio’s past. Visitors can also explore the Ohio Statehouse Museum and the Ohio Historical Society, both of which are free to the public.

Take a Walk Along the Ohio & Erie Canalway

The Ohio & Erie Canalway is a National Heritage Area that stretches across 85 miles of scenic landscape. Visitors can explore the area by foot or bike on the Towpath Trail, which follows the historic canal system. Along the way, visitors can take in the sights of the canal locks, historic bridges, and charming towns. The area is also home to a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, beavers, and herons.

The area also offers a variety of free programs and events, such as guided hikes and bike rides. Visitors can also explore the many museums and historical sites located along the towpath, including the Canal Visitor Center, the Ohio & Erie Canal Museum, and the Canalway Center.

Tour the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is a must-see for any music fan. The museum features exhibits on the history of rock music, including artifacts from iconic musicians and bands. The museum offers free admission on certain days, as well as a variety of special events and programs. Visitors can also explore the museum’s library and archive, which contain a wealth of information on the history of music.

The museum also offers a variety of free concerts throughout the year, as well as educational programs for children. The museum also hosts a variety of special events, such as film screenings, lectures, and workshops.

Visit the Cleveland Museum of Art

The Cleveland Museum of Art is one of the best art museums in the country. The museum is home to a wide variety of art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum also offers a variety of free programs and events, such as lectures, film screenings, and workshops. Visitors can also explore the museum’s library and archives, which contain a wealth of information on art and culture.

In addition, the museum offers free admission on certain days, as well as a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. The museum also hosts a variety of educational programs for children, including art classes and workshops.

Attend a Concert at Blossom Music Center

The Blossom Music Center in Cuyahoga Falls is a great place to catch a free concert. The center hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year, featuring both local and national acts. Visitors can also explore the center’s grounds, which are home to a variety of gardens and sculptures. The center also offers a variety of free programs and events, such as lectures and workshops.

In addition, the center offers free admission on certain days, as well as a variety of special events throughout the year. The center also hosts a variety of educational programs for children, including music classes and workshops.

Explore the Cleveland Cultural Gardens

The Cleveland Cultural Gardens are a unique collection of gardens that celebrate the city’s diverse cultural heritage. The gardens are home to over 20 different themed gardens, including Japanese, Chinese, and Italian. The gardens are open to the public and offer a variety of free programs and events throughout the year, such as lectures and concerts.

The gardens also offer a variety of educational programs for children, such as gardening classes and workshops. In addition, the gardens are home to a variety of sculptures and monuments, which are free to explore.

Visit the Cleveland Museum of Natural History

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History is a great place to explore the natural world. The museum is home to a variety of exhibits, including a dinosaur hall and a planetarium. The museum also offers a variety of free programs and events, such as lectures and workshops. Visitors can also explore the museum’s library and archives, which contain a wealth of information on the natural world.

In addition, the museum offers free admission on certain days, as well as a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. The museum also hosts a variety of educational programs for children, including nature classes and workshops.

Explore the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

The Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is a historic estate that was once the home of the Seiberling family. The estate is home to a variety of gardens, as well as a mansion with over 65 rooms. Visitors can explore the grounds and take in the stunning architecture of the estate. The estate also offers a variety of free programs and events, such as lectures and concerts.

In addition, the estate offers free admission on certain days, as well as a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. The estate also hosts a variety of educational programs for children, including gardening classes and workshops.

Visit the Great Lakes Science Center

The Great Lakes Science Center is a great place to explore the natural world. The center is home to a variety of interactive exhibits, as well as a planetarium and an IMAX theater. The center also offers a variety of free programs and events, such as lectures and workshops. Visitors can also explore the center’s library and archives, which contain a wealth of information on the natural world.

In addition, the center offers free admission on certain days, as well as a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. The center also hosts a variety of educational programs for children, including science classes and workshops.

Explore the Holden Arboretum

The Holden Arboretum is a beautiful 3,500-acre park located in Kirtland. The park is home to a variety of plants and trees, as well as a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore the park’s trails and take in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside. The park also offers a variety of free programs and events, such as ranger-led hikes and bird-watching tours.

In addition, the arboretum offers free admission on certain days, as well as a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. The arboretum also hosts a variety of educational programs for children, including nature classes and workshops.

Visit the Pro Football Hall of Fame

The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton is a must-see for any football fan. The hall is home to a variety of artifacts, documents, and photos related to the history of the sport. The hall also offers a variety of free programs and events, such as lectures and workshops. Visitors can also explore the hall’s library and archives, which contain a wealth of information on the history of football.

In addition, the hall offers free admission on certain days, as well as a variety of special exhibitions throughout the year. The hall also hosts a variety of educational programs for children, including football classes and workshops.

Ohio is a great destination for anyone looking for free things to do. There are plenty of activities to explore, from outdoor recreation to cultural sites. From the Cuyahoga Valley National Park to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Ohio has something for everyone. So grab your family and explore all that Ohio has to offer, and enjoy these 12 free things to do in Ohio!