Crisp air, colorful leaves, and cozy sweaters — fall in Southwest Ohio is simply magical. Whether your family craves outdoor hikes, charming small-town festivals, or scenic drives lined with fiery foliage, this season is the perfect time to plan a quick getaway. From Cincinnati to Dayton and beyond, these 12 family-friendly fall day trips in Southwest Ohio will help you soak up autumn at its best.
1. Caesar Creek State Park & Pioneer Village
8570 E. State Route 73, Waynesville, OH 45068 | Website
Just 40 miles from Cincinnati, Caesar Creek offers 3,800 acres of fall beauty. Families can hike through woodlands bursting with color, paddle across the reservoir, or tour the 19th-century Pioneer Village to experience life in early Ohio.
2. Adena Mansion & Gardens
847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, OH 45601 | Website
Step back in time at Governor Thomas Worthington’s historic home. Surrounded by lush gardens and wooded trails, the Adena Mansion is especially stunning in autumn, making it an educational and scenic family escape.
3. Hocking Hills State Park
19852 State Route 664 S, Logan, OH 43138 | Website
A little farther (about 2 hours away), but worth every mile. Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls are spectacular in fall when the cliffs and waterfalls are framed in fiery foliage. Adventure-seekers can add zip-lining or canopy tours to the trip.
4. Circleville Pumpkin Show
159 E. Franklin St., Circleville, OH 43113 | Website
Known as “The Greatest Free Show on Earth,” this iconic pumpkin festival features parades, pumpkin contests, rides, and pumpkin-themed treats galore. Families love the lively atmosphere just 70 miles north of Cincinnati.
5. Glenwood Gardens
10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45215 | Website
For a shorter drive, head to Glenwood Gardens in Hamilton County. The park’s blend of manicured gardens, walking trails, and woodlands makes it a relaxing half-day fall outing. Don’t forget to visit the Highfield Discovery Garden for little explorers.
6. Zanesville & the Y-Bridge
North 4th St. & Main St., Zanesville, OH 43701 | Website
This unique city is home to the one-of-a-kind Y-shaped bridge. Stroll along riverside parks, explore local art, and take in the fall scenery that makes this small town shine during autumn weekends.
7. Sugarcreek MetroPark
4178 Conference Rd., Bellbrook, OH 45305 | Website
Families can walk shaded trails beneath a canopy of gold and crimson leaves or bike along the paved Greene County Trail System. Sugarcreek MetroPark’s centuries-old oak trees make it a spectacular fall foliage destination.
8. East Fork State Park & Harsha Lake
3294 Elklick Rd., Bethel, OH 45106 | Website
Known for its large lake and rolling hills, East Fork State Park is a favorite for boating, fishing, and hiking. In fall, the reflections of the changing trees on Harsha Lake create postcard-worthy views.
9. John Bryan State Park & Clifton Gorge
3790 State Route 370, Yellow Springs, OH 45387 | Website
One of Ohio’s most breathtaking natural areas, Clifton Gorge offers dramatic limestone cliffs and waterfalls along the Little Miami River. After your hike, explore the artsy shops and cafés in Yellow Springs for a full day of adventure.
10. Scenic Drive Through Clermont County
Start in Milford, OH 45150
Sometimes the journey is the destination. Clermont County backroads come alive with fall color in October. Add in pumpkin patches, farm markets, and small-town diners for a cozy countryside road trip.
11. Miami Whitewater Forest & Oxbow
9001 Mt. Hope Rd., Harrison, OH 45030 | Website
Miami Whitewater Forest boasts long hiking trails, lakeside views, and picnic areas, while Oxbow offers an educational wetlands experience. Together, they make a perfect fall adventure close to Cincinnati.
12. Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill
3501 Lexington Rd., Harrodsburg, KY 40330 | Website
A short drive into Kentucky brings you to this beautifully restored 19th-century Shaker community. Kids will enjoy hands-on history, while parents can admire gardens, crafts, and peaceful fall scenery.
From pumpkin festivals to peaceful hikes, these fall day trips near Southwest Ohio offer unforgettable ways for families to celebrate the season. Whether you’re craving adventure, history, or just a scenic drive, these destinations prove that autumn is the perfect time to explore close to home.
