After too many days inside this long, cold winter, it’s time to get out and enjoy some new activities! With so much to do so close to home, every member of your family will find something they’ll love from this list of ideas.
CAMPING
Hocking Hills
The Hocking Hills State Park Campground has been named the number one campground in the country by Trailblazer.com. Award-winning private campgrounds Lake Hope State Park and Wayne County National Forest offer campers one-of-a kind experiences. The amphitheater hosts movies on Saturday night and guests can enjoy swimming pools and game rooms as part of their visit as well. www.explorehockinghills.com
Jellystone Park Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort is a network of campgrounds focused on providing a fun outdoor vacation for the entire family. There are three Jellystone Parks in Ohio: Akron/Canton, Columbus North-Mount Gilead and Holmes County, in the heart of Amish Country. Little ones will enjoy watching for appearances from Yogi and his friends. www.campjellystone.com
Tappan Lake Park Located between Cadiz and Uhrichsville, Tappan Lake is great for camping, swimming, boating, fishing and hiking. More than 500 campsites are available, as well as vacation cabins and camper cabins. If fishing is your thing, Tappan Lake boasts one of the best bass lakes in the state. http://tappanpark.mwcd.org/
CAVES
Ohio Caverns
Ohio Caverns is one of Ohio’s most popular tourist attractions. Try panning for real gemstones or take one of four breathtaking tours, including the Natural Wonder Tour and the Limestone Tour. Ohio Caverns is located four miles east of West Liberty on the Logan/Champaign County Line. www.ohiocaverns.com
Olentangy Indian Caverns Located just 30 minutes north of Columbus, the Olentangy Indian Caverns lets you dive deep into the days of lost Indian tribes and pioneer explorers. Many miles of passageways have never even been explored yet. www.olentangyindiancaverns.com
Perry’s Cave Perry’s Cave, located in Put-In-Bay Ohio, is a registered Ohio Natural Landmark. The cave lies 52 feet below the surface of South Bass Island in Lake Erie. Be sure to check out the Butterfly House while you’re there – with 50 different types of butterflies from around the world. www.perryscave.com
Mammoth Cave
The world’s longest cave is less than four hours away from Indianapolis. Mammoth Cave, Kentucky is an easy drive for families who wish to explore the vast system of amazing caves in the area. Along with caving, a wide variety of attractions like zip lines, horseback riding, balloon rides and water activities are all offered in close proximity as well. www.mammothcave.com
CULTURE
The Victoria Theatre
The PNC Family Series offers numerous performances for kids of all ages. In April, check out the musical Dog Loves Books and Imagination Ball: Under the Big Top featuring aerialists from the Cincinnati Circus. Other family-friendly entertainment throughout the year can be found on their web site at www.victoriatheatre.com
The Dayton Art Institute
Kids are natural artists – encourage that creativity at the Dayton Art Institute! Their Super Saturday Family Days and Tiny Thursdays are perfect for exposing children to art in fun and expressive ways. www.daytonartinstitute.org
Beavercreek Community Theatre
Get your kids in on the act with the BCT Children’s Theatre. Children can have the opportunity to perform and also learn about all aspects of the stage, behind the scenes too.
www.bctheatre.org
Find something that interests you? Pick a few ideas for your family and enjoy all that our area has to offer!
