THings to do in OHio and surrounding area?? (Columbus, Cleveland: waterparks, buy)

[em4444]

Hello.

We just moved to Toledo from florida and are looking for things to do in OHio and surrounding areas for a family with small childern. Maybe day trips or weekends away.

Thanks for any advice!!!
em

[Daytonnatian]

Geez, you got options like crazy, which is one of the benefits of living in such a populated state. In Toledo, you got COSI (Center of Science and Industry), which is awesome, along with the Zoo, and a lot of other activities I can't think of (I'm a Daytonnatian, so I'm trying my best). Also, you got Detroit, with all of the Henry Ford stuff, real close by, and the Indoor waterparks in Sandusky, along with beaches on Lake Erie and Cedar Point, as well. Cleveland and Columbus are also real close by, so look around and have fun!

[AnytimeAnywhere]

The zoo, Mud Hens games downtown, Put-in-Bay, Kelleys Island, Cedar Point in Sandusky, The German/American Fest in August, The Greek Fest later, countless festivals in the area, The Westfield Mall, Levis Commons, The Shops at Fallen Timbers, The Docks on the East Side, the fireworks downtown on July 4th, to name a few close by.

[jam40jeff]

Not to mention that Chicago isn't all that far for a weekend trip (less than 4 hours driving or by train).

[ImaMichigander]

COSI is the science center and it is awesome, but I think that it won't be open until the fall. There was a funding issue and I think it's been resolved, but the center has not yet reopened.

The Toledo Zoo is fantastic!

The Drive Thru Safari in Port Clinton is good too! But stop and buy carrots at the grocery store-- you'll save about $3.50 or more per bag than if you buy there....

[Dennuchi46]

Also there is horse racing, auto racing,.many great parks,the river and fishing. Bay state park with many activities for the kids .On Sunday there is great music at the zoo---free..The list is long.

[NorthwoodsZJ]

A lot of good info & ideas here - Discover Ohio

[NeedAVacation]

I'd recommend a membership to the Toledo Zoo. It'll pay for itself in 2 or 3 visits. Don't miss the Lights Before Christmas!

The Metroparks are great to visit and offer activities and classes for families and children.

Providence Metropark canal boat trip is interesting: Providence Metropark & The Canal Experience -Metroparks of the Toledo Area

Sauder Village is a great day trip: Historic Sauder Village

[Beavercreek33]

There are plenty of great waterparks in Sandusky. Cedar Point is mostly big rides, but there are things to do for small children too.

[Orwelleaut]

If you want to take your kids to a nice beach, check out Luna Pier, MI. Exit #6 on I-75 just North of Toledo. Water is clean, nice changing areas, and it stays very shallow really far out into the lake while getting some nice waves.