6 Overlooked Things To Do In Ohio
There’s more to Ohio than Cedar Point and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. In fact, The Buckeye State is brimming with bizarre attractions. From theme park grocery stores to intricate hedge sculptures, here are just a few of the whimsical sights and activities that are worth looking into if you’re visiting this state.
Shop at Jungle Jim’s International Market
Jungle Jim’s International Market is a 200,000 square foot grocery store in Fairfield, where you can buy virtually any type of food available. There are 180,000 products here from over 70 countries. However, it’s more than just a grocery store – boasting themed areas, animatronic displays, cooking demonstrations, tastings and aquarium-like seafood tanks, it is often described as a ‘theme park of food’. A must-visit place for fervent foodies.
Go Camping in Carroll County
Those looking for a rural escape should visit Carroll County. Here you’ll find rolling hills, quaint small towns, beautiful hiking trails and some stunning remote campsites. There are also RV parks in Carroll County for those on a road trip looking for somewhere scenic to stop. Several fascinating museums can be explored in the area including the Ernest Warther Museum, Canton Classic Car Museum and McKinley Presidential Library and Museum.
Take a tour of Ohio Caverns
America’s most colorful caves, Ohio Caverns, are known for their diverse crystal formations. One of its most famous rock formations is a vibrant stalactite called the ‘crystal king’. Guided tours lasting an hour can take you through this magical cave system, discussing its unique geography and history. The nearest place to stay is the village of West Liberty, but you can also drive here from Columbus where there are a greater range of hotels.
Explore the American Sign Museum
Located in Cincinnati, The American Sign Museum contains a vast collection of historical signs from across the US. This includes vintage wooden signs recovered from historic shops and retired neon signs from past roadside attractions. Avid photographers will love it, while history buffs are certain to learn a thing or two.
Visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum
Another offbeat Ohio museum worth visiting is the Merry Go Round Museum in Sandusky. This is a museum dedicated to the history of the carousel, containing a vintage merry-go-round as its centerpiece, but also containing many other artefacts. It’s next to Cedar Point and contains some vintage memorabilia from this theme park. There’s also a workshop here where you can see master carvers creating and restoring antique carousel figures.
Walk Through Topiary Park
Topiary Park in a public garden in Columbus in Ohio’s Discovery District. It boasts some incredible topiary (horticultural art) that includes living sculptures made from hedges and trees. The entire sculptural scene is inspired by an impressionist painting, George Seurat’s A Sunday Afternoon on The Island of La Grande Jatte, which has been brought to life through hedge sculpting. It’s a fascinating quirky attraction to check out if you’re in Columbus and is a popular place for picnics in the summer.