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View from top of the Historical Courthouse



61st largest city in Ohio

Ohio has a rich tradition of preserving and honoring its historical landmarks and experiences. From sites that date back to prehistoric man through to Native Americans to slaves escaping to freedom, Ohio offers visitors a chance to connect with those that endured the struggles and engaged in the triumphs that shaped us as a people.

Visitors interested in living history can find it at historical sites that present reenactments and other ongoing interpretations that offer the chance to feel a part of history. At historical villages, visitors step back in time to experience the sites, sounds and culture of people living in another time. Eight US presidents hailed from Ohio and sites dedicated to the work of these men can be found throughout the state.

Ohio is home to the country's largest Amish population providing an unique opportunity to see this truly unique juxtaposition of a simple life side by side with the 21st Century. In cities across Ohio, ethnic neighborhoods provide eateries, arts offerings and cultural experiences that provide a unique look into the homelands of US immigrants.

And as "The Birthplace of Aviation," Ohio offers remarkable sites dedicated to aviation history. Transportation history can also be found along the Ohio River and within the historic towns that developed to meets the growing transportation industry such as the amazing 300 mile long Ohio-Erie Canal. Today these historic towns are quaint reminders of and educational treasures for this glorious bygone era. Take a trip along the Ohio River on a scenic river cruise to relive the romance of travel by paddleboat or ride on a canal boat along the Ohio-Erie Canal to get the feel of life during the 1800s.

History can be found around almost every bend in Ohio. Touring Ohio's Byways provides a chance to get close to the historical sites and take the leisurely way to see Ohio's breathtaking rolling landscape. Seventeen Byways traverse the state.

Families and Ohio go together like ice cream and giggles. From the world's tallest, fastest, longest and scariest roller coasters and theme parks to renowned zoos, interactive museums, year-round indoor waterparks and a host of outdoor activities, families can find an almost endless supply of memorable experiences in Ohio - sure to put a smile on every family member's face.

Recognized as having the best theme parks in the world, Cedar Point and its Geauga Lake and Paramount King's Island offer families the ultimate in theme park adventure. Whether racing at 120 miles an hour on a hair-raising ride, enjoying a family-oriented show or cooling off on a hot day at a waterpark, Ohio's theme parks offer the perfect family getaway.

Ohio's zoos are second to none. Families can take a journey across the globe at new exhibits designed to experience animals in a naturalistic habitat. Not only can visitors see a wide variety of animals, reptiles and other creatures, but Ohio's zoos also provide a look into animal conservation efforts both at the zoos and around the world. Most of the zoos also feature an additional experience such as an aquarium or botanical garden.



Interactive and children's museums can be found in every major Ohio city. The opportunities for stretching the imagination are endless with exhibits and hand-on demonstrations of how the world works. Adults will find themselves equally as enthralled with the displays as are the kids!

Families that enjoy and outdoor adventure can enjoy the miles of hiking paths, bike trails and fishing areas. Ohio's State Parks and National Parks and Forests provide an ideal homebase for exploring Ohio's backcountry. Lake Erie and its sandy shoreline, quaint communities, majestic lighthouses and myriad water activities is jut waiting for the family that enjoys finding the perfect place for creating family traditions.

Indoor waterparks are being developed across Ohio to offer families the fun of a waterpark - no matter the time of year. Check back on this site for news about new waterparks set to open in 2004, 2005 and 2006. Right now, families can enjoy Great Wolf Lodge (formerly Great Bear Lodge) in Sandusky. But, before long, indoor waterparks will be at each theme park and as stand-alone properties. What fun!

No matter what activities families enjoy, Ohio offers the chance to reconnect with activities and experiences that will make memories that can be shared between generations and for generations. Search through the family-friendly offerings on this site to plan your perfect Ohio family getaway.

With restaurants offering every type of cuisine imaginable in a variety of settings and price levels, visitors to Ohio can enjoy delicious dining experiences. Each of Ohio's major cities has a wealth of dining options from five-star fine dining to eclectic eateries. From classic continental to extraordinary ethnic, Ohio's chefs take culinary mastery to stratospheric levels.

But, great dining isn't confined to the cities! Venture into The Hocking Hills for award-winning dining at area bed and breakfast inns. Mosey on down to the Ohio River towns for a surprising variety of restaurant options, or visit Amish country for hearty family-style fare that is signature Amish. (You'll have to try it to see what that means).

No matter where you visit, you'll find a chef, a restaurant and an experience that will be a wonderful addition to your Ohio vacation. Search through this section to find the perfect dining options for you.