Ohio, with its vibrant cities, scenic natural parks, and rich cultural heritage, offers a wide range of experiences perfect for family vacations. From the bustling urban centers of Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati to the outdoor adventures in Hocking Hills and the family fun near Sandusky’s theme parks, the Buckeye State is an ideal destination for families. This guide highlights the best family hotels in Ohio, ensuring a stay that’s both enjoyable and memorable.
Best Hotels for Families in Ohio
Holiday Inn Express – Columbus Downtown, Columbus
Family-Friendly Features: Located in Ohio’s capital, Columbus, the Holiday Inn Express – Columbus Downtown is an ideal base for urban exploration. The hotel features family suites, a seasonal outdoor pool, and is conveniently situated near attractions like COSI and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium.
Why Families Love It: Its central location in Downtown Columbus allows families to enjoy Columbus’s rich cultural and educational offerings, including proximity to popular attractions, making it a great choice for a city-based family adventure.
Other Options:
- Courtyard Columbus Worthington: Offering a shared lounge, fireplace, and entertainment activities, this hotel is located near Antrim Park, providing a comfortable stay for families with amenities like free Wi-Fi and a swimming pool.
- Hilton Garden Inn Columbus-University Area: Offering competitive rates and modern amenities, this hotel features free self-parking, an indoor swimming pool, and is close to the Greater Columbus Convention Center and Ohio State University.
Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland Downtown, Cleveland
Family-Friendly Features: In the vibrant city of Cleveland, the Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland Downtown caters to families looking to explore the city’s rich history and beautiful Lake Erie shoreline. This hotel is close to family attractions like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. It offers an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a game room for kids.
Why Families Love It: The hotel’s location in downtown Cleveland, combined with its range of amenities, provides a convenient and enjoyable stay for families. Its proximity to significant attractions like the Quicken Loans Arena adds to the appeal for those seeking urban adventures and lakeside fun.
Other Options:
- Sheraton Cleveland Airport Hotel: Features a sauna, indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and comfortable accommodations. It’s conveniently located near the Superman Exhibit and Rocky River Reservation.
- Holiday Inn Cleveland Clinic: Offers a steam room, sundeck, restaurant, and is close to the Cleveland Museum of Art and Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland.
- Wyndham Cleveland Airport Hotel: A premier accommodation with an indoor pool. It’s near Impet Park and the NASA Glenn Visitor Center, ideal for exploring more of Cleveland.
- Kimpton Schofield Hotel: A boutique hotel in downtown Cleveland offering unique amenities like a complimentary wine hour and loaner bikes for city exploration.
Castaway Bay by Cedar Point Resorts, Near Sandusky
Family-Friendly Features: Located near Sandusky, Castaway Bay by Cedar Point Resorts is a fantastic choice for families seeking a theme park adventure. This hotel provides easy access to Cedar Point, and boasts its own indoor waterpark. It features a variety of amenities including an arcade, children’s activity center, escape room, blacklight mini-golf, mini-bowling, a fitness center, free parking, and several dining options.
Why Families Love It: Its proximity to Cedar Point and the inclusion of an indoor waterpark make it ideal for families seeking both excitement and convenience. The range of on-site activities ensures entertainment for all ages, making it a perfect base for families visiting Sandusky’s popular theme parks.
Other Options:
- Kalahari Resorts Sandusky: This resort is a short drive from Cedar Point and features a water park complex, a spa suitable for adults and children, a safari adventure park, a gaming room, and golfing options.
- Hotel Kilbourne: Approximately 10 minutes from Cedar Point, this hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a heated outdoor pool, an on-site restaurant, and complimentary shuttle service to Cedar Point.
- Cedar Point’s Express Hotel: Located close to Cedar Point, it offers an outdoor pool, on-site laundry, a convenience store, shuffleboard court, hot tub, and parking. Special discount packages for park admission and dining options are available.
- Fairfield Inn and Suites Sandusky: A reasonably priced hotel near Cedar Point with amenities like an indoor pool, Wi-Fi, a fitness center, and a 24-hour business center. It offers well-furnished rooms with plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, microwaves, and refrigerators.
- Holiday Inn Express and Suites Milan: Situated about 20 minutes from Cedar Point, perfect for families and couples. It features comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi, a microwave, and a refrigerator, as well as an on-site pool and hot tub.
Cedar Grove Lodging and Events, Hocking Hills
Family-Friendly Features: Nestled in the scenic Hocking Hills region, Cedar Grove Lodging and Events offers families a natural retreat. With a variety of cabin accommodations, guests can enjoy a comfortable and picturesque setting. The property is conveniently located near popular hiking trails and outdoor activities. Why Families Love It: Cedar Grove Lodging and Events is praised for its peaceful environment and proximity to Hocking Hills State Park. Its location allows families to explore the region’s stunning caves, waterfalls, and trails, offering both a peaceful and adventurous family vacation.
Other Options:
- Springwood Cabins: Known for its quaint and cozy setting, offering a private deck overlooking the woods and a hot tub. It’s appreciated for its comfortable furniture and peaceful environment.
- Cabins At Hickory Ridge: Offers private, clean, and comfortable cabins. It’s conveniently located close to Logan for dining and just 20 minutes away from the State Park.
- Comfort in the Woods Cabins: Perfect for those looking to be near Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, and Old Man’s Cave parks. The cabins are ideal for two, with cozy decor and size.
- Getaway Cabins: Provides cabins with good air conditioning and comfortable shower areas. These cabins are known for their great water pressure in the showers and overall fine condition.
- The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls: This Bed and Breakfast offers a unique stay with modern amenities, beautiful grounds, and an included delicious breakfast.
Selecting the Perfect Family Hotel in Ohio
When choosing a hotel for your family in Ohio, consider:
Location: Proximity to city attractions, natural parks, or entertainment districts can greatly enhance your family vacation.
Family Amenities: Look for hotels with amenities like pools, play areas, and family-oriented programs.
Cultural and Recreational Opportunities: Hotels offering or near cultural, historical, and recreational experiences can enrich your family’s trip.
Comfortable Accommodations: Ensure that the hotel provides spacious family rooms or suites for a relaxing stay.
Conclusion
Ohio’s hotels offer a unique combination of urban excitement and natural exploration, catering to families with diverse interests. Whether it’s a stay in a city hotel in Columbus, Cleveland, or Cincinnati, a nature-oriented lodge in Hocking Hills, or a fun-filled resort near Sandusky, these accommodations provide a comfortable base for exploring Ohio.
