Are you planning a trip across the country? Looking for an affordable family vacation destination? Or do you simply want to see the beauty of the midwest? From Lake Erie to state parks to world-class resorts,
The Buckeye State can certainly provide a little something for everyone to enjoy. To help you navigate the journey, we’ve put together a list of the best resorts in Ohio.
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7 Best Resorts in Ohio for 2024
1. Great Wolf Lodge (Sandusky)
Overall Vibe: Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky is a great destination for families with young children. With plenty of packages to choose from, there are lots of affordable options that can accommodate everyone.
Affordability and Deals: The Great Wolf Lodge website is easy for guests to navigate. Check out the deals tab for discounts and reductions on your stay. They also provide different types of packages for guests to choose from.
Package deals are available during different times for families with younger children. AAA members and First Responders are also eligible for a discount during their stay. These options even extend to other attractions, including the Build-A-Bear Workshop or arcade area.
There are also various room options available for families to explore based on budget, size requirements, and other individual needs.
Pro/Con: Our family-focused resort provides the best indoor water park in Ohio. Guests will enjoy various food and drink options, including a Dunkin’ Donuts and their own Gitchigoomie Grill. There’s also an “adult’s only” hot tub area for parents to enjoy some time away from the kids.
We will note that our lodge is a place for families and young kids. Certain areas of the resort may be a little noisy during popular times. Larger crowds can also be expected during peak seasons.
Nearby Attractions: Guests can enjoy scenic views and lakeside attractions at Sandusky Bay and Lake Erie, which are located nearby.
Cleveland is also just an hour away by car and is easily accessible by public transportation. Of course, golfers will also enjoy the Woussickett Championship Golf Course. Tee times are open to the public. If you want to get something to eat off the resort, head over to Horizons Restaurant for spectacular views of Lake Erie and seasonal local menus featuring classic American cuisine.
2. Cherry Ridge Retreat
Overall Vibe: The Cherry Ridge Retreat in scenic Hocking Hills State Park is a luxury retreat located in southeast Ohio. Guests can choose from three different types of stays: luxury romantic, luxury family, and rustic luxury. There are many hiking trails, fishing areas, and waterside gazebos for nature-lovers to enjoy.
Affordability and Deals: The Cherry Ridge Retreat does not openly advertise any deals or promotional items on its website. Instead, it highlights the potential upgrades and incredible amenities in your stay.
Pro/Con: Cherry Ridge Retreat emphasizes its proximity to nature as a major selling point. So long as that description matches your vacation goals, you’ll be sure to enjoy your stay. The ratings for the Cherry Ridge Retreat are incredibly high, and guests have continually left extremely satisfied following their visit.
Amenities: The Cherry Ridge Retreat provides guests their own luxury cabin. The aim is to give a little tranquility for travelers enjoying a romantic getaway or some time away from their everyday stresses. In-cabin couples spa services, romance packages, and scenic horseback and hot air balloon rides are just a few of the incredible additions offered at the Cherry Ridge Retreat.
Nearby Attractions: There are plenty of activities located in the nearby area. Some popular activities range from ATV rides, zip-lining, archery, canoeing, and more. Some great parks are located in the area, including Lake Hope State Park, Lake Logan State Park, and the Wayne National Forest.
3. Landoll’s Mohican Castle
Overall Vibe: Landoll’s Mohican Castle accounts for one of America’s most unique resorts. Located between Cleveland and Columbus, the resort is a top-rated destination for weddings, retreats, and corporate events.
Affordability and Deals: Landoll’s Mohican Castle offers various deals, special packages, and seasonal promotions.
Pro/Con: Landoll’s is relatively affordable and situated away from city chaos. Guests can choose to stay in suites or private cottages, depending on their preferences. Landoll’s is a particularly appealing option for those interested in hosting a party or large event. Individual guests should also be prepared to encounter this kind of occasion during their stay.
Amenities: The main eatery at Landoll’s Mohican Castle is the Copper Mug Bar & Grille. The Copper Mug Bar & Grille offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a special happy hour menu.
Nearby Attractions: There is no shortage of activities in the nearby area. The website lists upcoming and future public events. Mohican County is also full of outdoor activities, wineries, and shopping for Amish crafts.
4. Great Wolf Lodge (Mason)
Overall Vibe: Great Wolf Lodge provides unbeatable opportunities to enjoy some time away as a family. The lodge is full of activities and attractions and contains one of the best indoor water parks in the country.
Affordability and Deals: Check the deals tab for information on seasonal promotions, package deals, and more. The lodge provides a tremendous pool area and plenty of guest amenities for both parents and kids.
Pro/Con: Much like its sister resort in Mason, Ohio lodge offers guests many great deals, packages, and top-notch amenities. There are plenty of restaurants located within the resort. Guests who want to experience different kinds of cuisine can find many restaurants located within walking distance of the resort.
Amenities: Great Wolf Lodge in Mason provides live-action role play games, a bowling alley, ropes course, arcade area, as well as a Build-A-Bear workshop. There are also plenty of other attractions located just 30 minutes southwest in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Nearby Attractions: Some popular activities you can do nearby include riverboat rides, amusement parks, the Cincinnati art museum, or a visit to Paul Brown stadium. Check out this list for more ideas.
5. Belamere Suites Hotel
Overall Vibe: The Belamere Suites Hotel is an award-winning romantic getaway. They take the title pretty seriously – no children, pets, or unregistered guests allowed!
Affordability and Deals: Currently, there are no deals available. The Perrysburg location books up pretty quickly, so be sure to schedule your visit a few months in advance.
Pro/Con: The Belamere Suites is ranked among the top destinations nationwide for romantic getaways. The reviews are strong, and customers typically leave delighted. The only real downside revolves around the price; depending on how, when, and what you book, things can get expensive fast.
Amenities: There are various suites to choose from, including some with whirlpool baths and others containing their own private swimming pools. One of the most unique amenities involves 24-hour concierge service.
Nearby Attractions: While there isn’t a whole lot to do outside of the resort, Perrysburg, Ohio, offers a nature reserve, mini-golf course, movie cinema, The Perrysburg Area Historic Museum, and Fort Meigs Ohio’s War of 1812 Battlefield.
6. Sawmill Creek Resort
Overall Vibe: The Sawmill Creek Resort is a golfer’s dream trip. The world-renowned championship golf course is open seven days a week and frequently hosts professional and amateur tournaments. Sawmill Creek is also a popular group destination. The resort often hosts family reunions, weddings, and business retreats.
Affordability and Deals: Guests save 30% on Cedar Point admission and enjoy exclusive benefits, including Early Entry and complimentary fountain beverages, when you book your stay during the Cedar Point season.
Pro/Con: The Sawmill Creek Resort offers some world-class services and amenities. Its marina also provides families, fishermen, and sports enthusiasts with tons of things to do. However, it can be hard to understand just what is available and when based on changing operating schedules.
Amenities: There are restaurants located on the property: Salmon Run, Mulligan’s Deli, and Trappers Run. A gorgeous indoor swimming pool is also located on-site. The outdoor swimming pool is available during the summer months for those who want to spend a little more time outside.
Nearby Attractions: Sawmill Creek Resort is another great place to stay in the Erie County region of the state. There is no shortage of things to do in the area. Popular activities include birdwatching, roller coasters, water parks, wineries, and dockside dining.
7. Salt Fork Lodge
Overall Vibe: You can find the Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center nestled within Salt Fork State Park. Salt Fork Lake is located nearby and provides tons of fun activities for families to enjoy during their stay. If your family isn’t exactly the outdoorsy type, there are plenty of great ways to pass your time at the lodge.
Affordability and Deals: The Salt Fork Lodge does a great job of advertising its deals. There are specials for the military, seniors, and discounts on local activities like fishing, wildlife, and golf.
Pro/Con: The resort provides a long list of activities for individuals interested in all sorts of recreations. Though the resort may need a few updates, it seems to attract a loyal base that returns year after year.
Amenities: The Salt Fork Lodge is a popular location for groups and parties, weddings, family reunions, and business retreats. The property provides over 6,500 square feet for special events. Additionally, there are 148 guest rooms and 53 two-bedroom cabins.
There are indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, a fitness center, a game room, and fire pits, among other amenities to enjoy within the complex. You and your family can also enjoy different hiking trails and even a dog park for your four-legged family members! There are also a few marinas nearby for boat rentals and recreation.
Nearby Attractions: The state park is the most prominent nearby attraction, but there are also many other fun activities to enjoy. Reviewers rave about renting pontoon boats from the nearby marinas and spending their days out enjoying the scenic lake views.
Enjoy all the Amenities and Attractions that Ohio has to Offer
It may not be your typical tropical escape, but Ohio provides tons of affordable options for families to enjoy during a visit. There are resort options available for couples, families, and groups traveling together.
From the waters of Lake Erie to the rolling hills of southeast Ohio, it’s easy to understand why nature lovers return year after year. Even if you’re not interested in the outdoors, you can find some incredible amenities at these Ohio resorts. No matter where you stay, we promise you’ll be able to create some fantastic memories for yourself and your family.
