Travel the USA (Visit Ohio)

It is the unique goal of travel adventurers to visit all fifty states in America. To boost this objective, each week we shall explore one state. Alphabetically, the 35th to visit is none other than Ohio, abbreviated OH. Regardless of the order in which you explore them, the Buckeye State is very special.

Visit state # 35 – OH

Ohio, a state in the Midwestern region of the U.S., is bordered by Lake Erie to the north, Pennsylvania to the east, West Virginia to the southeast, Kentucky to the southwest, Indiana to the west, and Michigan to the northwest. It is historically known as the “Buckeye State” after its Ohio buckeye trees and Ohioans are also called “Buckeyes.” The state has a rich history, taking its name from the Ohio river which originated from the Iroquoian word for “great river.” The state was the first to be carved from the Northwest Territory and became the 17^th member of the union on March 1, 1803. Of interest, its flag is the only non-rectangular one of all the states.

Ohio offers wonderful cultural experiences for every age. Cleveland, Cincinnati, Columbus, and Dayton are notable cities featuring a multitude of educational attractions. All are brimming with arts, music, sporting opportunities, cuisine, parks, museums, and more. Some feature zoos and aquariums bound to entertain families. Notable in Cleveland are its professional sports teams, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Playhouse Square, Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument, art deco architecture, and more. Cincinnati is brimming with activities to include Findlay Market, the Cincinnati History Museum, BB Riverboats, Kings Island and more. Columbus is known for its historic German Village, Short North Arts District, Center of Science and Industry, and Columbus Art Museum. The National Museum of the U.S. Airforce, Carillon Historical Park, America’s Packard Museum (The Citizens Motorcar Co.), Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, Benjamin & Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center are some of the many fun things to do in Dayton.

Ohio is home of vast and undisturbed wildlife areas to include Cuyahoga Valley National Park which lies along the Cuyahoga River. Visitors can participate in enjoyable outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, paddling the river, birding, picnicking, fishing, horseback riding, questing, night sky viewing, golfing, and winter sports. Hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a unique experience and a ride through nature. In 1880, Valley Railway Company brought railroading to the Cuyahoga Valley. The railway thrived and became part of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad. However, competition from the automobile would ultimately cause a decline of interest in train travel until the line was renewed in 1972 as part of a scenic excursion route. Today, the train meanders through the valley and along the rushing river. Passengers can witness animals in their natural habitats including eagles, deer, beavers, herons and more. The 33,000-acre park includes diverse ecosystems including forests, rivers, wetlands, grasslands, plus there’s a towpath trail that is ideal for biking, hiking, and running. The park ultimately offers an abundance of fun for all, so don’t miss an opportunity to visit.