Ohio is a Midwestern state at the heart of American culture, birthplace of eight U.S. presidents, and home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Pro Football Hall of Fame, and Cedar Point — the 'Roller Coaster Capital of the World.' From Cleveland's revitalized lakefront to Columbus's thriving Short North arts district, Cincinnati's unique chili culture, and the breathtaking caves and waterfalls of Hocking Hills, Ohio offers remarkable variety for every traveler.
Best souvenirs
Authentic items worth bringing home.
Buckeye candy (chocolate-peanut butter balls) — available at most Ohio confectioneries and gift shops from $8–20/box
Ohio State Buckeyes gear — Team shop at the Shoe (Ohio Stadium, 411 Woody Hayes Dr, Columbus) or Easton Town Center
Amish-made quilts (Holmes County) — expect to pay $150–600 for a full-sized handmade quilt; prices reflect significant craft labor
Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams pints — available to ship nationwide; pick up at any Columbus Jeni's location for $12–14/pint
Great Lakes Brewing Company merchandise — available at the brewery gift shop at 2516 Market Ave, Cleveland
Ohio-made hot sauce and food products — Jungle Jim's International Market near Cincinnati has the widest Ohio-made selection (5440 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, OH 45014)
Cleveland Rocks merchandise — Rock Hall gift shop at 1100 Rock and Roll Blvd, Cleveland
Traditional markets
Where locals shop and travellers find treasures.
West Side Market
Meats, produce, international foods, artisan breads, and Ohio cheeses
Where: Ohio City, Cleveland
Hours: Mon/Wed 7am–4pm; Fri/Sat 7am–6pm; closed Tue/Thu/Sun
Findlay Market
Fresh local produce, artisan cheese, international foods, flowers, and Cincinnati specialties
Where: Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati
Hours: Wed/Fri 9am–1pm; Sat–Sun 8am–1pm; closed Mon/Tue/Thu
North Market Columbus
30+ vendors: Jeni's ice cream, artisan cheese, local produce, prepared foods, baked goods
Where: Short North, Columbus
Hours: Tue–Fri 9am–7pm; Sat 8am–5pm; Sun 10am–4pm; closed Mon