If you’re looking for family friendly places to go and things to do with kids in Northeast Ohio, look no further. Below you'll find details on over 300 family friendly events, activities and local attractions. Use this list as a resource to visit and discover the many great local attractions NE Ohio has to offer. Most are open all year round, while some are seasonal activities. We've even included many FREE things to do with kids in Northeast Ohio!
We hope you find it helpful as you as planning outings with your family and friends. And if so, please share with anyone else that might find it beneficial too!
Majestic Meadows Alpacas & Boutique
Fun for all ages! Come pet, feed and interact with all the animals on the farm!
Majestic Meadows Alpacas is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors.
The 20-acre property includes open pastures for you to roam in which gives you a truly unique interactive experience that gets you up close and personal with all the animals on the farm as you walk through the fields.
The farm is home to over 75 alpacas, llamas, miniature cows, horses & donkeys, sheep, goats, kangaroos, wallaby, miniature potbellied pigs, camels, turkeys, ducks, rabbits, a tortoise and new for 2023 capybaras.
Open daily. Make reservations to experience the farm today!
428 Athletics - Come play with us!
428 Athletics is 13,000 square feet of all things FUN!
Baseball, softball, golf, virtual reality, and much more! It's the perfect place for parties, corporate events, fundraising events or just a family fun day!
428 offers batting cages, golf simulators, interactive gaming, and spacious turf to run free or even play dodgeball! They are home to Sandlot Softball and 428 Baseball. Other offerings include advanced training for baseball, softball, and golf.
Open daily to the public, walk ins are welcome or book in advance call 216-644-1110 or visit 428.io and book now!
428 Athletics offers a variety of fun and educational clinics for people of all ages keep an eye on the ever-updating events at 428.io/events or text the keyword 428Athletics to 833-907-3841 for updates.
428 Athletics
26361 Curtis Wright Parkway Richmond Heights, OH 44143
Call 216-644-1110 or visit 428.io to book now
SPECIAL DISCOUNT: 20% Rebate to all Northeast Ohio Family Fun readers – eligible on all rentals, camps, and clinics. Not eligible for events/parties. Simply mention the discount when you call or add it to the notes if you book online.
Give Your Child a Great Beginning to a Lifetime of Health & Smiles!
Great Beginnings Pediatric Dentistry provides children from first tooth through 21 years of age with evidence-based oral health care in a fun, supportive environment.
Drs. Rachel Rosen, Laura Adelman, & Danielle Richman recognize the relationship between a child's airway, sleep, & dental development. GBPD is proud to be an early adapter of laser dentistry for children & offers a full range of minimally invasive dentistry options, including SMART fillings, Hall crowns, & SDF treatments. Laser tongue tie & lip tie procedures are also available.
The GBPD team works in partnership with caregivers to ensure optimal outcomes in airway & oral health through nutrition & preventative dentistry education.
GBPD welcomes children of all abilities to enjoy a great beginning to a lifetime of health & smiles!
Great Beginnings Pediatric Dentistry
9964 Vail Drive, Suite 1 Twinsburg, Ohio 44087
Call 330-425-1885 to schedule
Indoor Play Centers
Indoor Play Centers – A fun and great option for any time of the year!
Outdoor Play Centers
Outdoor Play Centers in Northeast Ohio – Spend a day with the family at one of these great outdoor locations. Whether you are looking for mini golf, batting cages or bumper cars each of the locations offer fun options for the entire family.
Museums & Science Centers
Museums & Science Centers in Northeast Ohio – There are many many unique, educational and fun museums and science centers located in Northeast Ohio. Plan a trip with your children to make education fun!
Zoos, Aquariums & Wildlife Preserves
Northeast Ohio Zoos, Aquariums & Exotic Animals – Feed exotic animals from your car, enjoy various zoo programs throughout the year, underwater adventures, drive thru safaris and much more.
Fun on the Farm
Farms Across Northeast Ohio – There are many farms in Northeast Ohio that offer educational tours. Get up close with farm animals, meet the farmers and learn about what it takes to be a farmer. The farms below offer various tours and special events throughout the year.
You may also be interested in:
Pick-Your-Own Apple Orchards | Christmas Tree Farms | Pumpkin Farms
Gardens & Arboretums
Gardens & Arboretums – Another way to get outside and enjoy the beauty of nature is by visiting a local botanical garden. There are many to choose from and most offer a variety of educational activities geared toward children.
Parks & Playgrounds
Parks & Playgrounds across Northeast Ohio – Get outside and enjoy the many state, local and neighborhood parks across Northeast Ohio. Let the kids run and play on the playgrounds, take a hike along the trails or bring along a Frisbee or ball and have a game of catch. There's no shortage of outdoor fun to be had! Plus, read the reviews and see pictures of the local playgrounds we've visited.
Outdoor Water Parks
Outdoor Water Parks across Northeast Ohio – During the warm months, cool off at one of these water parks. Each offer a variety of different amenities including, water slides, playgrounds, lakes, kiddie pools and more.
Indoor Water Parks
Best Indoor Water Parks in Ohio – Whether you are looking for a fun weekend getaway or just want to spend the day, indoor waterparks are always great for the whole family to enjoy. Ohio has many different options to choose from and you can be sure there is one that is perfect for your family!
Beaches
Local Beaches – Even though we're miles from the ocean, there are still some nice beaches in Northeast Ohio. So pack up your towel and sunblock and head out to the beach this summer.
Sports & Recreation
Whether you prefer watching others play or you like to get in the action yourself, there are plenty of sports options in Northeast Ohio. From professional sports teams, sports complexes, athletic events and more. Make it a point to get active and exercise with your children. After all, the family that plays together, stays together!
Canoeing & Kayaking Adventures – Paddle sports can be a great way to get your kids outside this summer! It is great exercise and a lot of fun. Remember to bring along some sunscreen and enjoy the ride!
Fishing Derbies – There are quite a few fishing derbies taking place across Northeast Ohio during the spring and summer months. The events give children the opportunity to learn how to fish and join in a friendly competition for a chance to win prizes.
Frisbee/Disc Golf – Enjoy some friendly competition and an afternoon at the park playing frisbee golf with your family.
Horseback Riding – Locations that offer horseback riding lessons, trail rides, camps and more!
Roller Skating Rinks across Northeast Ohio – Enjoy a blast from the past and take your family to the skating rink! Strap on your skates and have some fun!
Rent Bicycles and go on a ride – There are many places you can rent bikes for your entry family
FREE Fun
FREE Things to to in Northeast Ohio – Thankfully it doesn't have to cost at lot to have fun with your family. Northeast Ohio is full of FREE (and low cost) family activities and events taking place each day.
Kids Classes, Lessons & Extracurricular activities
Kids Classes & Clubs – Details on many classes, clubs and extracurricular activities you can sign your kids up for
Kids Clubs in Northeast Ohio – This clubs offer a great opportunity to get your children more involved in sports and activities they love. Most of them include some awesome swag and great discounts.
Theater & Performing Arts
Take your children to a musical or theater production geared toward children or acting classes and watch their imaginations soar.
Festivals & Fairs
There are festivals held each month of the year with focuses ranging from seasonal celebrations, animals, foods, ethnic festivals and more. Most offer FREE admission with a fee for various activities and foods. Below is a list of some of our favorites festivals and fairs. Be sure to visit OhioFestivals.net for all your festival needs.
Comprehensive Schedule and Reviews of Ohio Festivals (Northeast Ohio and Beyond)
County Fairs (Northeast Ohio)
Holiday Events & Activities
Holiday Fun in Northeast Ohio – Many local attractions offer fun family friendly (and sometimes FREE) holiday activities throughout the year. From Martin Luther King Jr. Day to New Years Eve and every holiday in between.
Details will be updated about a month before the holiday so you'll have time to plan. Don't miss out, Sign up for our FREE Weekly Newletter and LIKE Northeast Ohio Family Fun on Facebook
Day Trips, Tours & Unique Excursions
Northeast Ohio is home to make unique tourist attractions. Visit any of the locations below and become a tourist in your hometown.
- Train ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad (Akron, Canton, Cleveland stations)
- AC&J Scenic Train Rides (Ashtabula County – Jefferson)
- Monticello III Horse-Drawn Canal Boat Rides (Coshocton County – Coshocton)
- Historic Roscoe Village Tours (Coshocton County – Coshocton)
- Gospel Hill Lighthouse Tour (Coshocton County – Coshocton) *FREE*
- Lolly the Trolley Tours of Cleveland (Cuyahoga County – Cleveland)
- Explore Squires Castle (Cuyahoga County – North Chagrin Nature Center) *FREE*
- Tour the William G. Mather Steamship (Cuyahoga County – Cleveland)
- Visit the Lake Erie Shores & Islands (Erie County – Sandusky)
- Tour an Amish Home and take a ride on a Horse & Buddy (Holmes County – Millersburg)
- Tree Frog Canopy Tours (Holmes County – Glenmont)
- Ride on a Canal Boat pulled by a Horse (Stark County – Canal Fulton)
- Tour Glamorgan Castle (Stark County – Alliance)
- Harry London Chocolates Factory Tour (Stark County – North Canton)
- Friday Lunch Trolley Rides in Akron (Summit County – Akron) *FREE*
- Atwood Queen Cruise Boat Ride (Tuscarawas County – Mineral City)
- P. Graham Dunn Factory Tour (Wayne County – Dalton)
Seasonal Activities
Winter Fun Guide – Because of all the snow Northeast Ohio gets during the winter, there are plenty of things to do outdoors to enjoy the snow.
Summertime Activities – With the kids out of school for summer break, you'll likely be looking for things to do to keep them entertained. Check out all of these fun family friendly summer programs for kids.
Fall Activities – Now that the heat of Summer is behind us, be sure to get outside and enjoy the beautiful colors, sights and sounds of fall.
As you can see, Northeast Ohio has lots of fun family friendly attractions! I’d love for you to leave a comment about the places on the list you’d recommend or if there are any great places you know of that weren’t mentioned.
All I can say is WOW WOW WOW!!! I can’t believe all this information. I am a very busy working single mom and this site will make it so easy to find things to do easily. Thank you thank you!!! I am go glad you offered this added bonus membership I have followed your newsletters for years but this puts it all at your finger tips!
Kim
What happened to the kids eat free section? I don’t see it anywhere. Thanks, Heather
Here you go: https://northeastohiofamilyfun.com/kids-eat-free-in-northeast-ohio/
Thanks for the great list! We got caught by surprise with this snowstorm in early April and were really scrambling for things to do!
Me and my sons enjoyed going to Northeast Ohio in the summer and now my grandchildren loves it
Thanks for the info; after moving out of Ohio 8 years ago I needed some advise where to take my kids whom are anxious to go and visit the town that saw me grow.
I’m just wondering if this info is current, I notice comments are from almost a year ago… ???
Never mind, just noticed I was reading backwards lol
We’re planning on visiting this winter… any other info is appreciated.
Thanks!!
When will the dates for all this years Halloween stuff be updated?
Khristina,
It will be update early next week. Thanks for checking.
Danielle
HI, the link for touch a truck is for the 2013 dates. Could you please update 😉
Jennifer,
You must like to plan ahead too! 🙂 I’ll have all the dates/times updated by the end of this month, I’ve got to get the Mother’s Day Events article finished first. 🙂 If you check back near end of April the 2014 dates will be there. Hope that helps!
Danielle
I notice that Rubber City Rollergirls are on the list under sports, but not Burning River Roller Girls (http://www.burningriverollergirls.com) or NEO Roller Derby (http://www.neorollerderby.com/). There’s also Sandusky Roller Girls (http://www.sanduskyrollergirls.com)
Jodie,
Thanks for pointing that out. I wasn’t familiar with those teams. Just added them to the listing.
Have a great day!
Danielle
Wow! Just moved here from LA and just wondering how I am going to engage my 7 yr and 3 yr old.
So many places to visit, you made my life easier.
thanks
Sanjay
Awesome! it gives a lot of good things for the kids
Great list! I’d also like to add Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary in Ravenna. We provide tours for the whole family from Spring through the end of October. Tour guests are given the opportunity to learn about and interact with rescued farm animals and then are treated to refreshments afterward.
Amy,
Thanks for letting us know about Happy Trails Farm Animal Sanctuary. I’ll be sure to add it to the list.
Take Care,
Danielle
Thanks for the list. I have found multiple things to do (and have already done) when mommy is at work and dad has to find things to do with the kids age 9, 3, 2. I would like to throw out for any who make it to the comments that surprising to me, a look at geocaching, which is FREE!, has been one of the most fun and family team building opportunities I could have ever imagined. Please give it a try. Look over the how to get started, find an easy geocache to begin and have fun. The searching is a treasure hunt for young and old. I have a great time and my kids do too. Its been one day trying and I’ve already got 2 more planned for tomorrow and at least 6 more hunts ready for future dates. Yay!
Mark,
Thanks for the comment, and I couldn’t agree more. We love geocaching! It’s such a fun and inexpensive activity that both kids and adults will enjoy. We just found #94 today. Our goal is to reach 100 before the end of October. 🙂
Happy Caching!
Danielle
Shanelle,
Thanks for the suggestions! We’ll get them added to the list.
Take Care,
Danielle
wow…this list makes me feel so much happier than i was. We are moving from NY with a 4 yr old and i was worried about the not been able to find anything for her too do as compared to NYC. thank you so much for sharing this list.
Sonal,
So glad you found our site as well. There are so many fun things to do in Northeast Ohio you’ll definitely be able to find fun things to do with your 4 year old.
I hope you’ll stick around as we are always posting fun things to do and area events.
Have a save move and Welcome to Ohio!
Danielle
Wow, this is great for me too! I also just moved here from NYC and I can’t wait to get my daughter involved in all of these fun things to do.
Channon,
Welcome to Ohio!! Glad you find it useful and I hope it helps as you explore your new community. If you ever have any questions please let me know.
Take Care,
Danielle
Romp N Stomp at 900 Medina Road is also a fun place for kids. They have open plays, camps, family fun nights, toddler times and much more. You can also rent bounce houses from them or hold a birthday party there. Check out their website at http://www.rompnstompcenter.net
Thanks!
Thank you for compiling this list, it will be useful for planning things to do with my grandkids this summer. However, let me correct one error that I found — under Zoos you have Wagon Trails listed as being in Clinton County, in the town of Vienna. Wagon Trails is, indeed, in Vienna township, but in Trumbull County between the cities of Warren and Youngstown. Just FYI.
Hi Peter!
Thanks for pointing that out. I’ll correct it now. Hope you have a great time with your grandchildren this summer!
Take Care,
Danielle
Pat Catans also does free crafts for kids every saturday 🙂
http://www.patcatans.com/site/g__20/393/DesktopDefault.aspx?g=20&tabid=393
Thanks for sharing! I’ll add it.
Thank you, Thank you . Thank you. We are Grandparents new to the area. This list is such a blessing. You saved me days of searching. This is the best list I ever could have hoped to find. Amazing! I am so appreciative.
CJ,
Thanks for making me smile tonight! I’m glad you like the list and hope that you have a great time exploring Ohio!
Danielle
What an awesome list of ideas!! I am so happy I found this. One idea that is worth adding is Kingwood Center in Mansfield http://www.kingwoodcenter.org/cms/ My kids love it their!
Thanks for letting me know about Kingwood Center, I just added it. Glad you found the list helpful.
Danielle
What a wonderful and extensive list! I pride myself on knowing much about Ohio travel and you’ve managed to list several places I have never heard of! Can’t wait to check out some of the castles you included on your list. And thanks for mentioning Malabar Farm and including my link. 🙂
Thanks for the kind words! And you’re most welcome for linking to your post. After reading your write up about the farm, I added it to our list of things to do this year. I know the kids would enjoy it.
Danielle