It’s no secret that Ohio is beautiful. And yet it’s all too easy to take for granted the landmarks and destinations that our state is famous for. Fortunately, we’ve put together a road trip itinerary that will take you to the most photographed places in Ohio. Through the lens of your camera (or phone), you’ll be able to renew your appreciation for the state’s most treasured landmarks. Or leave the camera at home and simply soak in the views as you make cherished memories with friends and family. Without further ado, we present to you the photographer’s road trip through Ohio.
Know before you go: The driving itinerary alone will take 10 hours, so be sure to plan a few overnight stops along the way. We’ve suggested three of them below.
- Marblehead Lighthouse
Ron and Patty Thomas / Getty Images You’ll find the single most photographed lighthouse in Ohio just 80 miles outside of Cleveland. A fitting start to our photographer’s road trip through Ohio, Marblehead Lighthouse is stunning in any season. Built in 1821, it also holds the title of the oldest continuously-operated lighthouse in the entire country. Lighthouse Drive, Lighthouse Dr, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440, USA
- Edgewater Park
Yuanshuai Si / Getty Images Next up on the list is Edgewater Park, one of the most breathtaking parks in the region. With 9,000 feet of shoreline giving way to stunning city views, this spot is prime for photo-taking. After you’ve captured the views, be sure to stretch your legs or embark on another activity such as kayaking, fishing, or dog-walking. It’s here that you’ll also find a famous “Cleveland” sign. Edgewater Beach, Cleveland, OH 44102, USA
- Blue Hen Falls
Mark Stevens / 500px / Getty Images No scenic road trip in Ohio is complete without some time spent in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. One of the crown jewels of the park is Blue Hen Falls, an exquisite waterfall that is stunning in all four seasons. Getting to the waterfall requires a short 0.5-mile hike that is as scenic as the destination itself. If parking at Blue Hen Falls is full, you might consider Boston Store Visitor Center (this will add 1 mile to your trek). Blue Hen Falls, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
Optional overnight accommodation: The Inn At Brandywine Falls
Myrene Ranta / Google For a charming place to stay the night, it doesn’t get much better than the Inn at Brandywine Falls. Tucked away in the woods, this charming bed and breakfast will quickly feel like a second home. Plus, it overlooks Brandywine Waterfall! For more information about booking your stay, click here.
- Lanterman’s Mill
Ali Majdfar / Getty Images The historic Lanterman’s Mill dates back to 1845. It’s one of Mahoning County’s most prized attractions, both for its history and its exquisite beauty. Visit the mill and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the past. You can even purchase some flour or grits as a souvenir from your visit. 1001 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511, USA
- Mohican State Park
Warren Smith / Google There’s so much to explore at Mohican State Park; you’ll want to take your time enjoying all that this beautiful destination has to offer. This one park is home to a covered bridge, a stunning river, and one of the deepest gorges in Ohio. For some of the park’s most stunning scenery, we’d recommend hiking the Hemlock Gorge Trail. This 3-mile hike will take you to the covered bridge and through the dense forests, offering photo ops at every turn. Mohican State Park, 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
Optional overnight accommodation: The Mohicans Treehouse Resort
TheMohicans.net If you’re ready to call it a day, venture to one of the most unique treehouse resorts in Ohio, conveniently located just 15 minutes from Mohican State Park. Photographed above is the Old Pine Treehouse. Click here for rates and availability.
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Franklin Park Conservatory / Facebook
Tim Perdue / Getty Images Welcome to Columbus! The Franklin Park Conservatory and Gardens is one of the city’s most cherished destinations, and it’s no mystery why. The Conservatory holds educational programs and events year-round, and their exhibits are nothing short of fascinating. There is an admission fee to get into the Conservatory and Gardens. Conservatory Drive, Conservatory Dr, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
- German Village
Wikipedia Photo opportunities abound at German Village, a quaint, historic district just south of Columbus. The area was settled by German immigrants in the early 1800s, and much of the original charm has been retained in the unique storefronts and architecture. It’s a great place to browse for a new book, enjoy a cup of coffee, or venture out on a romantic date. German Village, Columbus, OH, USA
Optional overnight accommodation: McGonagall’s Mansion
Sam / Airbnb It just doesn’t get much better than this Harry Potter-themed Airbnb in Columbus. This three-bedroom house is charming on the outside, and positively magical indoors. Complete with a game room and all kinds of Harry Potter-themed decor, you’ll feel as though you’ve temporarily been transported to another world. For rates and availability, click here.
- Ash Cave
pawel.gaul / Getty Images Lace up those hiking boots, because we’re about to venture to Hocking Hills State Park. You may want to get an early start, as Ash Cave is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in the park. The enormous cave measures 700 feet from end to end, and the view from almost any angle is breathtaking. The cave is just a quick walk from the parking area, so you can spend more time getting the perfect shot. Ash Cave, OH-56, Logan, OH 43138, USA
- Eden Park
Eden Park / Google Last, but certainly not least, is Eden Park. One of the most spectacular outdoor spaces in Cincinnati, the park offers gorgeous views of the Ohio River. You could easily spend all day exploring all that this park has to offer: the views, history, recreational opportunities, and more. Despite being such a gorgeous destination, Eden Park is still considered to be somewhat of a hidden gem. With plenty of room to roam, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to reflect on your whirlwind of a road trip. Eden Park, Clay Township, OH 45662, USA
Would you venture to the most photographed places in Ohio? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
Ron and Patty Thomas / Getty Images
You’ll find the single most photographed lighthouse in Ohio just 80 miles outside of Cleveland. A fitting start to our photographer’s road trip through Ohio, Marblehead Lighthouse is stunning in any season. Built in 1821, it also holds the title of the oldest continuously-operated lighthouse in the entire country.
Lighthouse Drive, Lighthouse Dr, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440, USA
Yuanshuai Si / Getty Images
Next up on the list is Edgewater Park, one of the most breathtaking parks in the region. With 9,000 feet of shoreline giving way to stunning city views, this spot is prime for photo-taking. After you’ve captured the views, be sure to stretch your legs or embark on another activity such as kayaking, fishing, or dog-walking. It’s here that you’ll also find a famous “Cleveland” sign.
Edgewater Beach, Cleveland, OH 44102, USA
Mark Stevens / 500px / Getty Images
No scenic road trip in Ohio is complete without some time spent in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. One of the crown jewels of the park is Blue Hen Falls, an exquisite waterfall that is stunning in all four seasons. Getting to the waterfall requires a short 0.5-mile hike that is as scenic as the destination itself. If parking at Blue Hen Falls is full, you might consider Boston Store Visitor Center (this will add 1 mile to your trek).
Blue Hen Falls, Brecksville, OH 44141, USA
Myrene Ranta / Google
For a charming place to stay the night, it doesn’t get much better than the Inn at Brandywine Falls. Tucked away in the woods, this charming bed and breakfast will quickly feel like a second home. Plus, it overlooks Brandywine Waterfall! For more information about booking your stay, click here.
Ali Majdfar / Getty Images
The historic Lanterman’s Mill dates back to 1845. It’s one of Mahoning County’s most prized attractions, both for its history and its exquisite beauty. Visit the mill and you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into the past. You can even purchase some flour or grits as a souvenir from your visit.
1001 Canfield Rd, Youngstown, OH 44511, USA
Warren Smith / Google
There’s so much to explore at Mohican State Park; you’ll want to take your time enjoying all that this beautiful destination has to offer. This one park is home to a covered bridge, a stunning river, and one of the deepest gorges in Ohio. For some of the park’s most stunning scenery, we’d recommend hiking the Hemlock Gorge Trail. This 3-mile hike will take you to the covered bridge and through the dense forests, offering photo ops at every turn.
Mohican State Park, 3116 OH-3, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
TheMohicans.net
If you’re ready to call it a day, venture to one of the most unique treehouse resorts in Ohio, conveniently located just 15 minutes from Mohican State Park. Photographed above is the Old Pine Treehouse. Click here for rates and availability.
Franklin Park Conservatory / Facebook
Tim Perdue / Getty Images
Welcome to Columbus! The Franklin Park Conservatory and Gardens is one of the city’s most cherished destinations, and it’s no mystery why. The Conservatory holds educational programs and events year-round, and their exhibits are nothing short of fascinating. There is an admission fee to get into the Conservatory and Gardens.
Conservatory Drive, Conservatory Dr, Columbus, OH 43205, USA
Wikipedia
Photo opportunities abound at German Village, a quaint, historic district just south of Columbus. The area was settled by German immigrants in the early 1800s, and much of the original charm has been retained in the unique storefronts and architecture. It’s a great place to browse for a new book, enjoy a cup of coffee, or venture out on a romantic date.
German Village, Columbus, OH, USA
Sam / Airbnb
It just doesn’t get much better than this Harry Potter-themed Airbnb in Columbus. This three-bedroom house is charming on the outside, and positively magical indoors. Complete with a game room and all kinds of Harry Potter-themed decor, you’ll feel as though you’ve temporarily been transported to another world. For rates and availability, click here.
pawel.gaul / Getty Images
Lace up those hiking boots, because we’re about to venture to Hocking Hills State Park. You may want to get an early start, as Ash Cave is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in the park. The enormous cave measures 700 feet from end to end, and the view from almost any angle is breathtaking. The cave is just a quick walk from the parking area, so you can spend more time getting the perfect shot.
Ash Cave, OH-56, Logan, OH 43138, USA
Eden Park / Google
Last, but certainly not least, is Eden Park. One of the most spectacular outdoor spaces in Cincinnati, the park offers gorgeous views of the Ohio River. You could easily spend all day exploring all that this park has to offer: the views, history, recreational opportunities, and more. Despite being such a gorgeous destination, Eden Park is still considered to be somewhat of a hidden gem. With plenty of room to roam, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to reflect on your whirlwind of a road trip.
Eden Park, Clay Township, OH 45662, USA
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