Have you ever just craved the Fall weather? You know… the crisp fall air, the smell of leaves, the warmth of a cozy sweater. Yeah, we know that craving, too. That’s why we created the ultimate fall travel guide that’ll make you fall in love with Ohio.
We set out on a journey to create an easy vacation plan and effortless itinerary in search of stunning fall foliage and authentic pumpkin patches! Hello, O-H-I-O!
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Where to Go to Explore Fall in Ohio?
Cleveland, Ohio
Our friends thought we were nuts! “Why would you intentionally take a vacation to Ohio? What’s there even to do? Isn’t there just factories & stuff?”
Well let me tell you my friend… we discovered a lot to do in The Buckeye State!
The excitement of an authentic fall in Ohio experience welcomed us from the moment we stepped off the plane. Of course, I had to take a quick photo in front of the beautifully decorated Cleveland sign.
My husband, Donte, is actually from Massillon, Ohio, so he knew exactly what to expect and was so excited to come back home. But I’m a Louisiana girl and had never truly experienced this colorful season.
Cleveland sits along Lake Erie and has long been humorously dubbed “The Mistake on the Lake”. It is known to have harsh winter weather conditions and unlucky sports teams but with so many things to do in Cleveland, there’s no “mistake” about planning an autumn trip to northern Ohio.
Ohioans are loyal, prideful, and super hospitable. The community makes this place worth a visit and it’s just one of the many reasons to explore Ohio this fall.
It’s a place where the old meets the new, where the love for sports, arts, and the outdoors comes together to create and unique urban experience. Cleveland and its surrounding areas have a lot to offer and are worth a visit, no matter the season.
How To Get to Cleveland?
We flew Southwest Airlines from New Orleans to Cleveland. The total flight time was a little over 4 hours, which wasn’t too bad at all.
We got lucky with the dates of our trip and decided to fully commit once we found out that the Browns were going to be playing the Bengals on Monday Night Football on Halloween!! How lucky is that?! So yeah, needless to say, it was meant to be.
We picked up our rental car from Budget Car Rental, located off the airport property. It was an easy 10-minute shuttle ride from the airport.
🍂 If you like traveling and exploring the outdoors as much as we do, why not join our FREE Facebook Group “Outdoor Adventure Travel & Tips”? It’s a great place to share your experiences, get more ideas for future trips, and connect with other people who love fall getaways as much as you do.
Top Things to Do for Fall in Ohio
1. Holden Arboretum
The Holden Arboretum’s immersive experience with Mother Nature can’t be beat. If you want to dive headfirst into that fall-in-Ohio feeling, the Holden Arboretum should be the FIRST thing on your must-do list.
Pack a picnic, warm blanket, jacket, and your favorite sweater, and curl up with nature.
It is located in Kirtland, Ohio, and is about 45 miles from Cleveland. This enchanting botanical garden and living museum spans across 3,600 acres of lush and diverse landscapes.
Not only can you enjoy the beauty of nature, but you can also take part in their educational resources and conservation efforts.
Whether you’re strolling through the gardens, hiking along the scenic trails, or simply finding a quiet spot to relax, Holden Arboretum provides a peaceful retreat from the busy city life.
2. Cedar Point Halloweekends
Get ready for Halloween thrills at Cedar Point’s Halloweekends! This place oozes of Halloween spirit.
It’s got something for everyone… spooky characters roaming the “scare zone”, creepy music and sound effects, and family-friendly areas too. All incredibly decorated with gigantic skeletons and jack-o’-lanterns galore!
Seeing how the entire amusement park was decorated over the top was amazing. If you want to get into the spirit of Halloween, Cedar Point Halloweekends is for you!
Pro-Tip! If your schedule allows, arrive on Thursday evening. It’s much less crowded than the weekend, and they offer a weekday special rate.
Most rides and attractions are open during this time, so purchase early entry tickets and hit up all your favorite rollercoasters before the lines get too long.
If you’re more into the haunted houses and mazes vibe, make sure to get in line as soon as each one opens.
Lines are long, and you don’t want to miss out on all the spooktacular offerings throughout the park.
The Scare Zone
The Scare Zone is downright FUN! The spooky characters roam the pathways, waiting for the right moment to jump out and scare the daylights out of you!
We jumped and then laughed so hard! We even saw one of them chase a woman through the park. All in good fun, nothing too scary.
Pro Tip! Be sure to dress warm for this fright night! The wind blowing off of Lake Erie is bone-chilling, and the temperatures can drop pretty dramatically at night.
Don’t worry, if you’re not into being scared, Cedar Point offers a light-up necklace that is worn to deter the creatures. Simply purchase a “No Boo Necklace” to let the monsters know not to scare you!
Check out this guide for all the details and what to expect. It includes a schedule of events and descriptions of the haunted houses, too.
3. Quarry Hill Orchards
Spend a beautiful fall day picking apples at Quarry Hill Orchards and fall even more in love with Ohio. Blessed with a blue sky and a cool autumn day, we decided to take advantage of the outdoors by apple picking.
It was my very first time to visit an apple orchard. It was like stepping back in time. I loved it!
Family-owned and operated, Quarry Hill Farms is a place to relax and appreciate mother nature.
Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by a bustling market barn, offered to sip on warm apple cider and try their variety of seasonal fruit. It’ll feel like a holiday scene from a Hallmark movie!
Like being in a Thomas Kinkade painting, the friendly dogs, crates of apples, and classic Radio Flyer red wagons will immediately bring out your inner child.
Take it from us, it’s worth the visit to be a part of this wholesome tradition — take a wagon ride through the orchards or walk the rows to pick your own fruit.
Wrap up your day with a visit to their Winery just up the road for a glass of wine from vineyards right at Quarry Hill.
4. Mapleside Farms
Located in Brunswick, OH, Mapleside Farms is the most charming and family-friendly destination. It captures the essence of autumn and offers a variety of experiences for visitors.
We discovered this hidden gem during an online search for Ohio attractions. Initially, we expected it to be a brief stopover, lasting just an hour or so, en route to our next destination.
Upon arrival, we were shocked by the large influx of vehicles, crowds, and the traffic coordination at the entrance!
We had to laugh at our complete and utter surprise, like, “What the heck is this place?! What’s going on?” I mean, it was a BIG “to-do” and is very impressive.
We encountered the most picturesque fall festival ever after parking and paying the entrance fee. To be completely candid, my inner child found a new home here.
It surpassed all my expectations and then some. It’s a challenge to put the enchantment and magic of this place into words, but it gifted me with unforgettable memories for a lifetime.
Spectacular Fall Foliage
Mapleside Farms is known for its breathtaking fall foliage. The farm is nestled in the rolling hills of Brunswick, providing visitors with stunning panoramic views of colorful leaves during the autumn season.
The vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows create a picturesque backdrop for a day of fun and relaxation.
Orchards and Pumpkin Patches
The farm features lush apple orchards and pumpkin patches, making it an ideal spot for apple picking and selecting the perfect pumpkin.
It’s a quintessential autumn experience for families and anyone looking to embrace the harvest season.
Seasonal Events and Activities
Mapleside Farms hosts a wide range of seasonal events and activities. There’s always something happening, from corn mazes and hayrides to live music and apple cider tastings.
The farm’s event calendar is filled with opportunities for fun and adventure.
The Orchard House and Café
The Orchard House at Mapleside Farms is a welcoming and rustic farmhouse-style restaurant. It’s a place to savor delicious farm-to-table cuisine, including freshly picked apples and other seasonal ingredients.
You can enjoy a meal while taking in stunning views of the orchards and valley.
Live Music and Entertainment
Mapleside Farms frequently hosts live music and entertainment, making it a lively gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Whether it’s a concert under the stars or a family-friendly event, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Mapleside Farms is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a place where parents and children can create lasting memories together.
Activities like apple picking, wagon rides, and exploring the corn maze offer something for every age group.
Spectacular Sunsets
One of the highlights of Mapleside Farms is its breathtaking sunsets. The farm’s location on the hills overlooking the valley provides an unobstructed view of the horizon, making it the perfect place to watch the sun dip below the landscape in the evening.
Pro Tip! Don’t miss out on the Mapleside Farms apple cider donuts. They are worth the wait! Yummy!
Mapleside Farms offers a quintessential fall experience with its stunning natural surroundings, seasonal activities, and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
It’s a destination that captures the spirit of autumn and invites everyone to embrace the beauty of the season. It’s a can’t-miss stop in this ultimate travel guide to exploring Fall in Ohio.
Where to Stay During Your Fall Trip to Ohio?
Cedar Point’s Express Hotel
Cedar Point’s Express Hotel during Halloweekends is a fantastic and affordable lodging option that complements the thrilling and spooky atmosphere of Cedar Point’s famous Halloween event.
It’s located just outside of Cedar Point, so it’s super convenient.
The rooms are clean and spacious, offering a cozy retreat after a day of Halloween-themed adventures.
Proximity to Cedar Point
One of the key advantages of the Express Hotel is its proximity to Cedar Point Amusement Park.
You can enjoy the park’s Halloween attractions, roller coasters, and haunted mazes during the day and easily return to the hotel for relaxation.
Themed Decor
During Halloweekends, the Hotel gets into the spirit of the season with themed decor. From spooky displays in the lobby to creative Halloween touches in the rooms, you’ll be immersed in the Halloween atmosphere from the moment you arrive.
The spooky vibe got us pumped up before heading to the park for the night. Your reservation at the Cedar Point Express Hotel also usually includes free parking at Cedar Point, so ask about this before booking your reservation.
Pro Tip! **Early Park Entry** Staying at the Express Hotel during Halloweekends often grants guests early access to Cedar Point, allowing them to experience some of the park’s attractions before the general public arrives.
Final Thoughts on Taking a Fall Trip to Ohio
With this ultimate guide to fall in Ohio, you’re well-equipped to experience the awesomeness of Ohio’s autumn season.
So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and let northern Ohio’s enchanting landscapes and warm hospitality make your autumn journey one for the books.
Fall in love with fall in Ohio and all it has to offer this season, and may your adventure be filled with colorful memories that last a lifetime.
Travel Resources
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