With school on the horizon, you may still be looking for chances to add those last few summer memories!
We've compiled a list of some awesome, lesser known, "vacation" spots that you and your family can fit into a weekend or less! From camping, to water parks, to wild animals, these spots have something for all ages! We hope our favorites become your favorites too.
Have a spot you think we should add? We'd love for you to send details to mackidnwcolumbus@macaronikid.com
My family and I would love to check it out and add it to the list
Ohio is filled with former and active quarries. This crystal clear water spot, gives tropical vibes, without the plane ticket! Located at 901 South Main Street, Gibsonburg, OH. The beach is currently open daily from noon-8pm! It's the perfect spot to snorkel and scuba dive if you're certified! A day at the sandy beach will only cost you $7 (ages 3-12 are $5). You can even make a whole weekend out of the experience, and book a campsite at the campground located across the street. Check out our tips for camping with kids!
Picture Perfect Ranch
Located at 1214 Rockmill Rd, NW Lancaster OH this farm is the perfect spot for the animal lover in your life! With baby animal visits until July, Goat yoga, and lots of other event opportunities, this family farm will quickly become your family's favorite!
Natural Springs Resort
Once a quarry, this beautiful spot gives opportunity for a full weekend of family fun! Your family can enjoy rv or tent camping, swimming (both lake and pool!), fishing, splash pads, playgrounds, and so much more! With opportunities for all ages, they won't have the chance to be "bored"!
500 S Washington St, New Paris, OH 45347
Known for its innovative and environmentally friendly design, it has been dubbed as "the greenest large water park project to date"! This 40,000 square foot indoor water park is full of unique and exciting features. With giant water slides, a lazy river, water swings for baby, and so much more! The park is also enclosed in a beautiful glass structure, so it can be enjoyed year-round in all types of weather!
Enter here for your chance to win a one night stay, with 4 water park passes, and check out everything this fun little town has to offer!
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Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch
While we haven't had the pleasure of visiting, it has been on our bucket list! Cherokee Valley Bison Ranch is a 50 year, working bison farm with bison, honeybees, chickens and peafowl. This neat location gives you the opportunity to sleep in a custom painted tipi under the stars! Located close to several wineries, beautiful hiking trails, and Legend Valley concert venue, there are lots of reasons to visit this spot!
If you visit before us, we would love to hear about your stay!
Thornville, OH
Wilstem Wild Life Park
Approx 4 hours from Columbus, this 1100 acre ranch, is home to some of the neatest animal encounters! You can visit with sloths, giraffes, playful otters, grizzlies, and a must for our family, elephants! Animal encounters include a ticket to the drive through safari, but tickets are available individually as well! Participants over 70 lbs can enjoy a thrilling Zipline tour, and with so much to do, you'll love the option to reserve a cabin and make it a weekend experience! There's so much to experience at Wilstem Wildlife Park!
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Ok, I get it. An entire road trip spot? For an ice cream shop?? DEFINITELY.
This spot has been a favorite in my family for generations! Located a short drive from the Wilds, this tiny soda shop packs BIG flavor. With giant sundaes, homemade candies, and nostalgic burgers and shakes, this little shop is well worth a day trip!
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Located at 532 McIntire Ave, Zanesville, OH
