Spring break is almost here, and your family is probably eager to get out of town and explore someplace new. Luckily, southwest Ohio is surrounded by many family-friendly destinations that have something for everyone. Here are just a few ideas for a quick trip this spring.
Fairfield County, Ohio
Located just southeast of Columbus, Fairfield County has activities that will suit every interest. Let your child’s imagination run wild at the AHA! Children’s Museum, and explore more than 60 hands-on exhibits. Children from 6 months to 8 years of age can become explorers, scientists, engineers and artists — and grownups will have fun, too! Get messy and make a masterpiece at Young at Art, an art studio that provides lessons throughout the year. Their Splatter Studio would make a great indoor spring break activity, especially on a chilly day. Satisfy your family’s sugar cravings on the Sweet Tooth Trail, which will have you exploring ice cream, donut and candy shops all around Fairfield County. With close to 20 stops on this trail, you’ll need to pace yourself to avoid a tummy ache and sugar crash!
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Families will find lots to explore in Fort Wayne, a city that sits among three rivers. A visit to Promenade Park is a must — this one-of-a-kind park features trails along the water, a tree-top canopy trail, a kids’ canal with an amazing playground, and opportunities to hop aboard a riverboat cruise or rent a kayak. In April, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo opens for the season, and Science Central — where children of all ages can participate in hands-on science exhibits — is open year round. A great way for first-timers to explore Fort Wayne is to download the apps for the Fort Wayne Public Art Trail and the Fort Wayne Outdoor Pass. Both are free ways to explore the natural beauty of Fort Wayne, and both offer users the opportunity to earn rewards as they check in to more locations.
Dublin, Ohio
Want to feel lucky this spring break? Then harness the luck o’ the Irish with a visit to Dublin, a city just 20 minutes north of Columbus that celebrates all-things Irish all year long. Journey along the Irish Fairy Door Trail to find hidden fairy doors all around the city. Stops include places like Our Cupcakery, where you can make your own cupcakes, and Dublin Toy Emporium, where you can shop for the perfect toy to take home. Dublin is home to multiple waterfalls, which are free to explore and will allow you to see many of Dublin’s natural wonders. Make sure to stop at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, one of the largest zoos in the U.S. And no trip to an Irish-themed town would be complete without a proper Irish meal, which you’ll find at Dublin Village Tavern, a family-friendly pub in Dublin’s historic district that has been around since 1889.
Terre Haute, Indiana
Located east of the Illinois/Indiana border, Terre Haute is a small town with lots to explore. Families will especially enjoy the Terre Haute Children’s Museum, which is three stories of nonstop fun. The museum was recently remodeled and now includes a huge ropes challenge course, which is open on the weekends. Experience great American art at Swope Art Museum, located in the heart of downtown. Visit on Tuesday afternoons to participate in one of their free Art Start programs for kids ages 3-5, which combine art and storytelling. When you visit Terre Haute, make sure to bring your bike and helmet! Griffith Bike Park — designed for riders of all ages, skills and abilities — has been heralded as one of the best mountain bike trails in the state, and it’s located right here in Terre Haute.
Whether you are looking for a quick day trip or an extended weekend getaway, these drivable destinations have you covered this spring break!