When the temperatures rise, there’s no better time to explore all the fun and refreshing ways to enjoy summer in Ohio. From epic waterparks and shaded hikes to cool museums and waterfront escapes, Ohio offers families and travelers dozens of ways to beat the heat while making unforgettable summer memories.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, looking for things to do with kids, or simply want to stay cool, these 27 summer activities in Ohio will keep you chill all season long.
Address: 6300 Kings Island Dr, Mason, OH 45040
Soak City is the ultimate waterpark experience located inside Kings Island amusement park. Included with park admission, this waterpark features wave pools, thrilling water slides, and a relaxing lazy river. It’s a great way to cool off after riding coasters, or you can spend the whole day floating and splashing.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to snag some of the park’s popular blue ice cream to help you cool off.
Address: 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065
Zoombez Bay, part of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, is one of the top waterparks in Ohio. It offers something for every age group- from action-packed slides and a massive wave pool to a winding lazy river and water playgrounds for younger kids.
Zoombezi Bay, part of the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, is one of the top waterparks in Ohio. It offers something for every age group—from action-packed slides and a massive wave pool to a winding lazy river and water playgrounds for younger kids.
A unique attraction to Zoombezi Bay is CrocTail Creek and SandBar. This is an adults-only lazy river where you can enjoy an adult beverage while you float along.
Bonus: Your waterpark admission includes access to the zoo’s attractions, making it an all-in-one family day.
Budget Tip: Visit Zoombezi Bay after 4 pm and get admission for only $18.99.
Don’t forget to snag our Ultimate Waterpark Packing List.
Address: 7000 Kalahari Dr, Sandusky, OH 44870
Kalahari is home to the largest indoor waterpark in the Ohio, making it a top destination for families year-round. However, in the summer, guests also gain access to the outdoor pool area, complete with kids’ splash zones, water slides, and pools. You can easily spend an entire weekend here enjoying water fun, spa services, and family entertainment—all under one roof.
Budget Tip: Check out the Don White Block Group on Facebook for discounted rooms and dates.
Address: 8762 Thomas Road, Middletown, OH 45042
If you’re looking for one of the most action-packed and unique waterparks in Ohio, don’t miss Aqua Adventures in Middletown. During the summer months, Land of Illusions transforms into a tropical-themed waterpark and is home to one of the Midwest’s largest Wibit inflatable obstacle courses, with over 65 floating challenge pieces for guests 43” and taller.
Think giant bounce pads, balance beams, launch platforms, and climbing walls—all floating in cool lake water! For younger guests, there’s a separate mini Wibit zone and toddler splash area, making it a great pick for all ages. You’ll also find Ohio’s tallest inflatable water slide, sandy beaches, shaded cabanas, and even a lakeside bar for the grown-ups.
Aqua Adventures offers a perfect mix of thrill and chill, making it one of the most exciting summer activities in Ohio for families and adventurous teens alike.
Address: 10661 Kile Rd, Chardon, OH 44024
Located in Northeast Ohio, Pioneer Waterland combines wet and dry fun into one affordable family outing. The park features multiple water slides, a lazy river, paddle boats, and a giant pool. Kids will love the dry rides too—think mini golf, bounce houses, and go-karts. It’s a charming, retro-style park with a relaxed vibe.
Address: 1530 S Danbury Rd, Port Clinton, OH 43452
Where else can you ride a water slide and feed a giraffe? The Watering Hole in Port Clinton blends waterpark thrills with a safari park. After hitting the lazy river and splash areas, kids can hop on a safari tour or feed camels and kangaroos. It’s one of the most unique and wild summer activities in Ohio.
Budget Tip: Check Groupon for discount admission deals.
Address: 100 Sychar Rd, Mt Vernon, OH 43050
Hiawatha Water Park is a gem in Central Ohio, offering an affordable and clean way to cool off in the summer. This public waterpark features large pools, diving boards, slides, and a kid-friendly splash area. It’s community-run, which gives it a friendly, laid-back atmosphere—and it’s perfect for a no-frills family afternoon.
Address: 400 E 10th St, Uhrichsville, OH 44683
This well-kept community waterpark in Eastern Ohio includes a splash pad, diving boards, and multiple slides. With reasonable pricing and a clean, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great stop for both locals and road-trippers passing through.
Address: 2501 Great Wolf Dr, Mason, OH 45040 & 4600 Milan Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870
With locations in both Sandusky and Mason, Great Wolf Lodge provides a full-service indoor waterpark experience that’s especially perfect for unpredictable summer weather. Families can play all day on water slides, wave pools, and splash zones—and then head upstairs to themed suites for even more fun.
During the summer months, the outdoor section of the waterpark is open.
Get our Complete Guide To Great Wolf Lodge in Mason.
Address: 10260 Ravenna Rd, Twinsburg, OH 44087
Families in Northeast Ohio love this hometown water park for its fun features and family-friendly focus. The park includes water slides, lap pools, and a shallow play area for toddlers. With attentive lifeguards and well-maintained grounds, Twinsburg Water Park makes it easy to spend a worry-free summer day in the water.
Address: 400 E 10th St, Uhrichsville, OH 44683
This well-maintained community waterpark in eastern Ohio features a lazy river, splash pad, large water playground, and multiple slides. With reasonable pricing and a clean, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s a great stop for both locals and road-trippers passing through.
How To Get To the Ohio Islands: Access by Ferry from Port Clinton, Sandusky, or Marblehead
No Ohio summer is complete without time by Lake Erie. Catch the ferry to Put-in-Bay or Kelleys Island for island adventures, enjoy beach days at East Harbor State Park, or stroll the lighthouse at Marblehead. The breeze off the lake keeps things cooler, and the views are unbeatable.
Get our complete Getaway Guide to Middle Bass Island, which also includes how to get to the Ohio Islands in detail!
There’s something magical about cooling your feet in a rocky Ohio creek on a hot day. Some favorite spots include Old Man’s Cave in Hocking Hills, Clifton Gorge, and John Bryan State Park. Let the kids look for tadpoles while you relax in the shade—nature’s version of a splash pad!
Cities and towns across Ohio offer creative splash pads that are free or low-cost. Look for top-rated ones in Cleveland suburbs, Cincinnati parks, Columbus metro areas, and Dayton. They’re perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who aren’t quite ready for a full pool day.
Ohio’s state parks are filled with scenic lakes and clean swimming beaches. Alum Creek, Salt Fork, Lake Hope, and Punderson are some of the best for families. Pack a cooler, your beach towels, and spend the whole day enjoying nature and water.
Tip: Take precautions before planning your lake day, as not all Ohio lakes are safe for swimming. Look for posted information about the presence of waterborne diseases resulting from exposure to contaminated waters or public health risks associated with toxins found in Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs).
Grab a tube or kayak and drift along the Little Miami River, Mohican River, or Great Miami River. Rentals are easy to find, and you’ll enjoy a mix of sunshine, tree cover, and cool water all day long. Don’t forget your water shoes and sunscreen!
Some of Ohio’s best waterfall hikes are also its shadiest and most refreshing. Check out Cedar Falls, Ash Cave, Brandywine Falls, or Charleston Falls. The mist off the waterfalls adds a bonus cool-down as you explore beautiful trails.
A great place to cool off and keep the kids entertained. Libraries across Ohio offer free summer reading programs, storytimes, craft kits, and indoor play areas. Whether you’re in a small town or big city, your library is one of the best (and air-conditioned) summer spots.
Escape the heat while keeping minds engaged at museums like COSI in Columbus, Cleveland Museum of Natural History, National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton, or the Toledo Museum of Art. These are ideal options for rainy or extra-hot days.
Address: 236 Walnut Ave, Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440
Lakeside is a historic, gated community along Lake Erie with shaded walking paths, charming shops, ice cream stands, and swimming beaches. During summer, it hosts family programming, concerts, and spiritual enrichment. It’s like stepping back into a simpler, cooler time.
Don’t miss these fun things to do while exploring Lakeside.
In Hocking Hills, Mohican, or Amish Country, you’ll find cabin rentals that include private plunge pools or access to cool creeks for wading. These cabins are great for families or couples looking for a peaceful escape with natural air conditioning.
The cabin featured in the photo is the Ember from Bell Bottom Retreat in Hocking Hills.
Lakes like Buckeye Lake, Indian Lake, and Atwood Lake offer pontoon rentals for hours of on-the-water relaxation. It’s one of the best ways to cool off while still enjoying sunshine and family time.
Whether you’re hopping islands or just enjoying a shoreline sightseeing tour, catching a ferry or cruise on Lake Erie is a breezy, beautiful way to spend a summer day. Depart from Sandusky, Marblehead, or Catawba Island.
Ohio has no shortage of iconic ice cream shops. Create your own “cool treats trail” by visiting Velvet Ice Cream’s Ye Olde Mill in Utica, a local Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, or a hometown favorite like Graeter’s in Cincinnati.
Book a weekend at an Ohio State Park Lodge like Hueston Woods or Salt Fork, where you’ll have access to both indoor and outdoor pools. These lodges also offer nature programs, hiking, and lake access for a full weekend of summer fun.
Step below the surface into Ohio Caverns, Seneca Caverns, or Olentangy Indian Caverns, where the temperature stays in the 50s year-round. You’ll explore stunning rock formations while escaping the summer heat.
Indoor amusement centers like Scene75, Main Event, and Dave & Buster’s are great ways to cool down while keeping kids entertained. With arcade games, laser tag, and bowling, these spots are full of energy, without the sunburn.
After the sun goes down, many Ohio towns host free outdoor movie nights. Pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and enjoy a family film under the stars when the heat of the day finally fades.
Whether you’re exploring waterparks in Ohio, floating on a river, or relaxing at a lodge, there are so many things to do in Ohio this summer that’ll keep you cool and smiling. Bookmark this list and start planning your next great Ohio adventure!
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