Fall break is the perfect time to pack your bags, hit the road and create memories with your loved ones. Whether you’re seeking an outdoor adventure or a place to unwind and enjoy the season as a family, here are four destinations to consider for a fall break getaway!
Go Hiking and Camping
Hocking Hills
Logan, Ohio: A hidden gem nestled in the southeastern region of Ohio, Hocking Hills really puts on a show during the fall season. If you’re searching for a place to immerse yourself in vibrant fall colors, this is the place, as the peak season of autumn glory coincides with fall break.
Hocking Hills has seven major hiking trails, each with its own unique features. Hiking to Old Man’s Cave rewards you with gorgeous views of waterfalls. If you have older kids, take a hike to The Rock House, the region’s only true cave in the park. You’ll see breathtaking scenery on this mile-long hike as you descend steps to view The Rock House, a 150-foot cliff of Black Hand sandstone. Cedar Falls is a half-mile hike that will take you to a seasonal waterfall that usually runs until early fall.
As you drive around the Hocking Hills area, you will see lots of signs for lodging tucked into the woods. If you’re looking to stay in a cabin, The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls is a cozy choice. This bed and breakfast is surrounded on three sides by Hocking Hills State Park. It offers lots of unique lodging options, including luxury cabins perfect for a family of four, all the way up to lodges that sleep 12.
Visit a New-to-You Museum
Candyland Children’s Museum
Portsmouth, Ohio: One of the great things about traveling with young children is that you could make a whole day trip out of visiting a children’s museum! If you’re looking for a sweet new museum to explore, then check out Candyland Children’s Museum, located in the heart of the historic Boneyfiddle District in Portsmouth, Ohio. This delightful museum is a haven of discovery-based learning and play for children ages 0-10, but all ages are welcome. With three floors to explore, there’s lots of fun for everyone in your family.
Programming at the museum changes frequently, providing a unique experience each visit. You’ll find lots of opportunities for pretend play, storytimes, mini rock climbing, water tables, arts and crafts activities, STEM play and much more.
Find Thrills and Chills at an Amusement Park
Cedar Point
Sandusky, Ohio: This renowned amusement park in northern Ohio transforms into a frightfully fun destination for families and thrill-seekers around fall break. During select nights from September 14 through October 29, Cedar Point offers “HalloWeekends,” which includes a lineup of attractions and entertainment tailored to the fall season. As you enter the park, you’ll be greeted with festive decorations, including jack-o’-lanterns, cobwebs and eerie lighting, transforming Cedar Point into a spine-chilling wonderland.
For those seeking family-friendly fun, HalloWeekends has plenty of options to enjoy. Little ones can embark on a Trick-or-Treat Trail, where they can collect candy from friendly characters and experience the joy of Halloween in a safe environment. Be sure to come in costume! Take a spin on the park’s iconic rides, which are open throughout the Halloween events, and experience the thrill of towering coasters and whimsical attractions adorned with spooky decorations. HalloWeekends also offers spooktacular live entertainment, including Halloween-themed shows. Be sure to catch “Luminosity,” a mesmerizing extravaganza that combines music, special effects, and choreography. And, of course, no Halloween event is complete without an incredible fireworks display that lights up the night sky, creating a truly magical atmosphere.
Explore a National Park
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Brecksville, Ohio: A great way to get caught up in “all the fall feels” is by enjoying nature in one of Ohio’s eight national parks. You’ll find Cuyahoga Valley National Park just outside of Cleveland, offering a stunning display of fall colors during the autumn months.
Start your visit by taking a scenic drive through the park and admiring the changing leaves. Then, take your family on a fall hike. The park offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, from a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk to a challenging trek up a mountain. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, such as deer, foxes and even bald eagles.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike and pedaling through the park. The winding bike trails offer a unique perspective on the fall foliage and a fun way to get some exercise as a family.
Be sure to check out the farmer’s market at Howe Meadow, held every Saturday morning through October 29. It’s a great way to stock up on locally grown fall produce and homemade goods from the area’s farmers and vendors.
Relax at a Resort
French Lick Resort
French Lick, Indiana: Put the “break” in fall break by heading to a nearby resort that offers equal parts relaxation and entertainment. Nestled in the heart of the Hoosier National Forest, French Lick Resort is home to two historic hotels, three golf courses, two spas, indoor and outdoor pools and a Vegas-style casino. Activities range from horseback riding to bowling to surrey bike rentals, and there are tons of hiking trails to explore the grounds. Best of all, KidsFest Lodge offers supervised entertainment for the kiddos while mom and dad hit the spa (or the casino!).
One way to enjoy the beauty of the resort during the fall is by going on one of the seasonal hikes or morning walks that are offered free of charge to hotel guests. Start at West Baden Springs Hotel and meander through the woods, enjoying the changing leaves and brisk air. The hiking trail ends at the French Lick Resort horse stables, where you can book a horseback ride or even a tour of the stables.
Spend the Day on a Train
Whitewater Valley Railroad
Connersville, Indiana: Whitewater Valley Railroad dates back to 1867 and offers regularly scheduled excursions throughout the year. Fall break is a great time to catch a ride, because Whitewater offers special rides during the autumn season.
The Fall Foliage Flyer is a five-hour round-trip excursion through the scenic Whitewater Valley with a two-hour layover in historic Metamora. This train departs from Connersville’s Grand Central Station on Thursdays and Fridays in October.
Also in the fall, Whitewater is offering a train ride to Metamora, for the Metamora Canal Days Festival. On Saturday, October 7 and Sunday, October 8, hop aboard this seven-hour round-trip excursion through the scenic Whitewater Valley with a four-hour layover in historic Metamora. Departure is from Connersville’s Grand Central Station. It’s a good way to enjoy the Metamora Canal Days Festival without worrying about parking!