While Vermont and New Hampshire might get more national attention for their beautiful displays of fall foliage, residents of Northeast Ohio know that our autumn colors are just as breathtaking. Our slice of paradise is bursting with sprawling parkland, sparkling lakes, wooded roadways and trails where you can get a taste of our seasonal beauty—you just have to know where to go.
We rounded up 12 of our favorite places to see fall foliage in the area—including some parks, waterfalls and covered bridges—so grab your camera and get ready to fall in love with Ohio all over again!
Note: Most of Ohio's best fall colors occur in the middle of October, but you can still see some leaves changing all throughout September. For the most accurate prediction, check out this fall foliage map from the Smoky Mountains National Park website.
Photo courtesy of Richard McBride via the Ashtabula Covered Bridge Festival
Nestled in the extreme northeast corner of Ohio, Ashtabula County is chock full of stunning places to view fall leaves, due to its dense deciduous forests and sparse population. For the best views, drive south on State Road 534 from Geneva to Windsor, where you'll be treated to miles and miles of vineyards as well as two of the county's 19 covered bridges. We recommend visiting on the second weekend of October when the Ashtabula County hosts their annual Covered Bridge Festival—full of entertainment, rides, games and a festive parade!
The Bedford Reservation, nestled just above the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Bedford, features a deep gorge carved out by Tinker's Creek, full of picturesque vistas and waterfalls. In the forests, you'll find mature trees adorned with yellow, orange and green and other abundant wildlife. The area also offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, picnicking and horseback riding. But to get the most out of your scenic visit, we recommend heading straight to the overlook along Gorge Parkway, which boasts one of the best views in Northeast Ohio.
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This centrally located national park is just a short distance from Cleveland and Akron, but its many acres of untouched scenery and countless species of plants and wildlife make it feel like it's worlds away. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is perhaps the most popular outdoor destination in the state, and frequently makes lists of "must-visit" parks in the country. During the fall, this is even more true! The trees explode into color, providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere for leisurely hikes and picnics. If you're interested in taking a hike while you're there, make sure to check out our complete guide to hiking in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park!
This popular, outdoorsy destination is filled with some of the most interesting scenery in the country, from breathtaking sandstone cliffs and waterfalls to caves and colorful forests. During the day, you can hike, bike and fish your way around the hills, or visit the charming towns nearby. And while locals and visitors alike flock to Hocking Hills for the camping, we highly recommend booking a cabin for a weekend or longer. Most of these cabins are outfitted with hot tubs, fireplaces, hammocks and spectacular views (of course). On your way, don't miss out on the chance to stop by Ohio's Ravenwood Castle, which has repeatedly been named one of the coolest destinations in the state.
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If a visit to the Holden Arboretum isn't on the top of your fall to-do list, then stop everything you're doing and head over right now. This famous arboretum is practically an outdoor playground that features cultivated gardens, trails and interesting attractions like the Murch Canopy Walk and the Kalberer Family Emergent Tower, which stands 120 feet above the forest floor. Not only will you have a blast exploring all of the interesting fauna among the bright autumn colors, but you'll also be able to stand in the trees and catch a breathtaking view from above. Need we say more?
Holmes County, the heart of Ohio's Amish Country, is certainly one of the most charming places in the state. On any given day, a leisurely walk or drive in the area will reveal narrow, winding roads, horse-drawn carriages, roadside farm stands, wavy fields of corn and a variety of beautiful trees. During the autumn months, these trees (including maples, oaks and buckeyes) explode into vibrant reds, oranges and yellows, transforming the county into something out of a fairy tale. But don't take our word for it—according to National Geographic, Holmes County is one of the top 10 places in the world to see fall foliage.
If you're not ready to give up the fun of summer quite yet—don't worry, we get it. Head out to Lake Erie Bluffs on the coast, which offers the perfect mix of summertime lake activities and scenic fall views. If it isn't too cold, you can take a kayak or canoe out on the water and experience the shoreline views of trees and trails first hand. There's also a 50-foot observation tower where you can get a 360-degree perspective of Lake Erie and the best of Ohio's natural fall beauty!
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Lanterman's Mill dates back to 1845 and is recognized as one of Mahoning County's most historic landmarks—and one of its most picturesque! The mill sits adjacent to the Mahoning River and overlooks Lanterman's Falls, which makes for a great photo from the outside. But don't leave without venturing in—the mill still offers stone-ground flours and gifts to the public, and is staffed by knowledgeable people who can inform you about the history of the area!
If you want to find a place to enjoy the season within the city, pay a visit to the Cleveland Cultural Gardens in Rockefeller Park just outside of Cleveland. The lush grounds host more than 30 gardens, all designed and cultivated by distinct cultural or nationality groups, representing the diversity and multiculturalism of the city. The area is even more gorgeous in the fall when trees all over the park turn a startling bright yellow and shed their leaves. The gardens are often driven through rather than explored by foot and admission is free!
Photo courtesy of Kyle Lanzer via Cleveland Metroparks
Cleveland Magazine calls the Rocky River Reservation one of the best places in the state to view fall leaves, and we tend to agree! The reservation includes a nature center, marina and stables along with interesting hiking trails so you can see the fall foliage up close. While you're there, make sure to take advantage of the Fort Hill Stairs, which ascend 90-feet above the east and west branches of the Rocky River, providing an optimal view of the area's fall foliage.
Perhaps the most picturesque destination in Cleveland, the ruins of Squire's Castle stand proudly in the heart of the North Chagrin Reservation. After a hike in the woodlands (or a rousing game of golf at the Manakiki Golf Course), set out a picnic in front of the castle. From here you can admire the beautiful architecture, soak in the autumn sunshine, and capture pictures of the colorful foliage. While there, make sure to share the story of builder Feargus B. Squire, whose wife supposedly still haunts the grounds.
Photo courtesy of the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
Built in 1915, the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is a spectacular example of architecture from the era. The home once belonged to the founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, Frank Seiberling, but was opened to the public after his passing. It now stands as a beloved Akron landmark and has even received the title of "best historic home tour in America" by the readers of USA Today. Tour the house and marvel at the antique furniture and detailing, but don't miss out on a turn through the gardens. During the fall months, a picnic outside allows you to view the marvelous mansion and the surrounding color all at once.
Did we leave out your favorite spot in Northeast Ohio to see fall colors? Let us know in the comments!
The Akron and Canton area was built on a strong agricultural history. As a result, we're blessed with year-round farmers' markets, local agriculture experiences and plenty of places to pick a pumpkin and sip fresh apple cider every fall.
To prove it, we rounded up a few of our favorite local spots where you can pick your own pumpkin, pick your own apples, watch your cider being pressed and eat plenty of pumpkin and apple donuts before enjoying festive, farm activities. This fall, make a trip to one (or more!) of these family farms and you'll want to come back every year.
Use our interactive map to find the pumpkin patch, apple orchard, or corn maze nearest you!

Photo courtesy of Arrowhead Orchards
2019 marks 87 years of community service, family fun and of course, delicious apples at Arrowhead Orchard! The farm is open seven days a week, but you'll want to visit during one of their family fun weekends this year—which will run until October 20. Each weekend, Friday-Sunday, will feature a corn maze, hayrides, a hamster run, a zip-line for children, an apple train and so much more.
The Beckwith Orchards Cider Mill has been a family-owned and -operated farm market for over 125 years—and it isn't hard to see why they've been so successful. Not only do they offer delicious, home-grown fruits and vegetables, but they also have a full bakery where you can get a freshly baked pie or cookie! This fall, don't miss the opportunity to take a stroll through the orchard or an autumn bike ride on the adjacent Portage County Hike and Bike Trail. If you want to learn even more about the orchard, educational tours are available by appointment.

This quaint, family-owned farm has been in operation since 1948, accumulating over 70 years of experience in growing, harvesting and celebrating. During the fall, that culminates into a massive Pumpkin Festival, complete with thousands of pumpkins, a corn maze, a scary bus, witches, a craft barn and tons of tasty treats!
8468 Wooster Pike Road, Seville
Geig's might be a perfect locale for a fun-filled day of apple picking, but it's also a top-notch place to grab a fresh-pressed apple cider, pie fillings, jams and more. Locals wait all year for the market to open so they can ring in the fall season properly!
10833 Chamberlain Road, Mantua

Photo courtesy of Eagle Vision Photography via Guyette Farms
Since 1945, the family at Guyette Farms has grown and raised a wide range of agricultural products including hay, corn, oats, hormone-free beef, honey and maple syrup. During the fall months, you can get lost in their giant corn maze, which will be open this year from September 21st until October 27th on Saturdays and Sundays.
6050 Riverview Road, Peninsula
For over a hundred years, Heritage Farms has been a picturesque setting for farm fun and special events. This year, their fall festival, Pumpkin Pandemonium, will run from September 28 through October 29 and will include a harvest maze, relaxing hayrides, pumpkin rolling, skee ball, a straw tunnel, a coloring wall and plenty of pumpkins for you to pick!
1555 Andrews Street, Hartville

Photo courtesy of Kingsway Pumpkin Farm
Kingsway Pumpkin Farm is a favorite amongst northeast Ohio families for a number of reasons—the gigantic and ornate maze, wagon rides, animals, corn box, straw tunnel and the pick-your-own pumpkin patch are just a few! Come see what all the fuss is about starting opening day (September 14) and on weekends through the beginning of November.
While Maize Valley Winery is mainly known for their award-winning wine, they are a perfect destination for families in the fall! When you stop by between the months of September and October, you'll be treated to an 8-acre corn maze, wagon rides, a pumpkin jump pad, an animal train, pumpkin cannon demonstrations, a "Goat-a-Palooza", a chicken run and so much more. Plus, adults will have a blast exploring their market—which is full of homegrown produce, savory meats, fresh breads and delectable cheeses— and tasting a few of their fantastic wines!
2955 Manchester Avenue, North Lawrence

Nestled in the adorable community of North Lawrence, Nickajack Farms is a family-owned and -operated farm that grows quality grass hay. In the fall, you definitely won't want to miss the Fall Festival, where Nickajack turns into an autumn wonderland! The festival will run from mid-September through October and will feature a pick-your-own-pumpkin patch, a corn maze, barnyard animals, tractor train rides, a discovery barn, midway games, play areas and more!
Ramseyer is the place to be on September weekends and even well into October. Here, you'll find a wide variety of activities to engage kids from sunup to sundown, including hayrides, slides, animals, pedal cart race tracks and pumpkin picking! But the real star of the show is Ramseyer Farms' two giant corn mazes that are a sight to behold from above. One is shaped like the entire state of Ohio while the other twists and turns into a massive mural of dinosaurs! Each maze features approximately 2 miles of trails—so make sure to allow 30-60 minutes to complete it. Have smaller children? Visit their mini-maze which will only take about 10-15 minutes!
4563 Riverview Road, Peninsula

Szalay's Farm first opened in 1931 as a vegetable farm. Now, after 88 years and four generations, they've evolved into a specialized sweet corn farm and an old-fashioned farm market that offers a wide variety of fruits and veggies fresh from the fields. Recently voted Akron's Best Farm Market, Szalay's is open all year long, but we definitely recommend that you stop by in the fall for their spectacular Fall Corn Maze! Their 3-acre maze will challenge you and your family all day, and when you finally find the way out, you can enjoy a refreshing pressed cider to celebrate!
Did we miss your favorite autumn spot? Let us know in the comments!
Fall is finally here and we couldn't be more excited! There is something extra magical about the season as the temperature cools, the pumpkins come out, the leaves change and we finally have an excuse to wear cozy sweaters, flannel and boots.
It's time to welcome the season with open arms—and guess what? You don't even have to leave your house to do so. With these fall decorating ideas from Ohio Instagrammers, you can invent the indoor oasis of your dreams and make your home look and feel as cozy as possible.
From: @KasuallyKatie
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Mums, pumpkins and plaid—oh my! We love the idea of layering your doormats to give a little bit of custom style and dimension, which is exactly what Katie of Kasually Katie did with her front porch's seasonal decor last year. She also added in some gorgeous flowering mums and pumpkins from one of our favorite nurseries, Pettit's, for a perfect fall touch.
From: @InfarrantlyCreative
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While we think it's never too early to start decorating for Halloween, this subtly spooky felt wreath from Infarrantly Creative could be left up all year long! The bright orange paired with a checkered black bow says Halloween with class. And, it turns out felt wreaths are actually pretty easy to make! You can find the full tutorial here.
From: @ThePretaPorter
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When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, you have a few choices on how to display the smorgasbord. You could make it a self-serve affair with a buffet or you could create a fall wonderland for your guests like Annie from The Preta Porter did! We can't get enough of the eye-catching metallic pumpkins in the centerpiece or the adorable acorn napkin holders.
From @BaublesToBaubles
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Crunching leaves, pumpkins, cool autumn air, fresh linen and cinnamon are just some of our favorite scents of fall! Even Cutler Real Estate's own Olivia Johnson can't get enough of fall smells—burning a Sweater Weather candle all season long. We also love her silver candlesticks and delicate pearl spray in a tall, glass vase that adds a subtle and classy fall touch to the space!
From: @HouseOfHawthornes
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We sure love our rustic decor here in Ohio. Not only are we home to the Country Living Fair in Columbus, but we are also a haven for antique lovers with incredible vintage and antique stores around every corner. And that love oozes out of this photo from Pam at House of Hawthornes! We adore the rustic watering can, tiny pumpkins and, of course, that amazing corn on the cob garland that ties it all together.
From: @DesignedDecor
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The leaves are changing, that familiar fall chill is starting to return to the air and pumpkin is appearing on menus everywhere. Fall is here, which is an occasion worth celebrating here in Columbus! Fortunately, there are plenty of local events and festivals to look forward to over the next few months.
Whether you're looking to experience the bountiful autumn harvest, get scared at a horror film festival or peruse a craft fair—you'll find something on this list worth marking on your calendar. Have fun this season!
September | October | November
Where: Ohio Village
When: September 13-15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Country Living Fair from Stella Shows on Vimeo.This massive fair showcases hundreds of vendors from more than 25 states selling antiques, vintage items, handcrafted goods, arts, furniture, home decor, clothing, jewelry, specialty foods and so much more. Meet the editors of Country Living Magazine and HGTV superstars, attend seminars and how-tos, see artisan demonstrations, and shop the Harvest & Gourmet Market. There's no better place or time in Columbus to get inspiration for your home decor!
Where: Lake Snowden, Albany
When: September 13-15, Friday 4 p.m.-Midnight, Saturday 10 a.m.-Midnight & Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Ohio Pawpaw Festival is a fun-filled and educational community event that celebrates one of America's largest native tree fruits: the pawpaw. The annual three-day event highlights the rich history and future possibilities of the pawpaw through delectable foods, fantastic entertainment, unique arts, crafts and local vendors. This year, you can expect a full lineup of presentations and activities that will provide fun for your whole family, including a Best Pawpaw Competition, a Pawpaw Cook-off, a Pawpaw Eating Contest and much more.
Where: Downtown Hilliard
When: September 14, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
This street fair takes place in Downtown Hilliard on Main Street each fall, usually the second Saturday in September. Throughout the day, you can peruse vendors from all over the area, including local businesses, organizations and artists. After you've shopped your heart out, you can enjoy some live music, great food, games, a sunflower show, a car show, kids' fair and much more.
Where: Downtown Washington Court House
When: September 20-22, Times TBA

Welcome autumn in style at this annual festival in Downtown Washington Court House! The family-friendly weekend will be full of live music, delicious food, rides, games, craft vendors, a 5K walk and run, classic cars and so much more. Make sure to follow them on Facebook to see what the full lineup of activities will be!
Where: The Stratford Ecological Center, Delaware
When: September 28, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
The Harvest Fair is the Stratford Ecological Center's biggest event of the year, featuring plenty of tractors, farm animals, a horse-drawn wagon and so much more! Don't forget to bring the best of your bounty, which you can display to the rest of the fair, and some good walking shoes so you can traverse the nearby hiking trails while you're there. Tickets are $5 per person and children under the age of 3 are free.
Where: Emswiler Farm, Pataskala
When: September 28, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Presented by TWIG of Nationwide Children's Hospital, Pataskala's annual Pumpkinpalooza is a can't-miss event this season. This year, enjoy exploring a huge barn full of food and activities; pick out a perfect pumpkin from the pumpkin patch; take a hayride around the farm; and bounce around in a bounce house—the possibilities are endless! You can purchase advance tickets on their website. All proceeds will benefit the Inpatient Rehabilitation Unit at Nationwide Children's Hospital.
Where: Lawrence Orchards, Marion
When: September 28, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Photo courtesy of Lawrence Orchards
This old-fashioned autumn event gives you and your whole family the chance to explore Lawrence Orchards, a local institution since 1921. Explore the orchard on a horse-drawn carriage, let the kiddos ride a pony, traverse the hay maze, take a train ride and, of course, eat a lot of apples! The event will feature plenty of fresh apples, caramel apple bars, apple pie and homemade apple cider that you'll want to take home gallons of.
Where: Young's Jersey Dairy, Yellow Springs
When: October 5-6, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Celebrate the fall season at Young's Jersey Dairy this year with the Fall Farm Pumpkin Festival! There you'll be able to take your picture with Humongous Gus; taste freshly made pumpkin donut holes; take a tour of their cheese making facility; and go pumpkin bowling. This event is entirely free, so bring the whole family out to have some autumn fun!
Where: German Village Meeting Haus
When: October 12, 7-11:30 p.m.
This annual event at the Historic German Village offers endless Halloween fun for kids-at-heart. The festivities start with an adult trick-or-treating route at 7 p.m., followed by dancing and drinks at the Meeting Haus at 9:30 p.m. There will be a photo booth, dancing and a costume contest, so come dressed in your Halloween finest! You can even grab a s'more and try a delicious concoction from Middle West Spirits.
Where: Oakland Nursery, Dublin
When: October 12-13, 12-4 p.m.

Come celebrate all things autumn at this family-friendly festival! There will be tractor-pulled hayrides, make n' take crafts, a pumpkin bounce house, apple cider pressing, a giant pumpkin carving demo and much more—all of the ingredients needed for a perfect fall fest.
Where: The Drexel Theater
When: October 12-13, Noon-Noon
Sharpen your wooden stakes and stock up on silver bullets because Columbus's terror tradition is back to haunt your nightmares! This 24-hour horror marathon is held at the Drexel Theater and will feature a lineup of several terrifying films. In addition to watching a few movies, you'll also have the chance to meet Michael Gornick, the legendary director of photography for Creepshow, Dawn of the Dead, Day of the Dead, Knightriders and Martin!
Where: Ohio Village
When: October 12 & 19, 5:30-9:30 p.m.
Enjoy an evening of 1890s-style fun at the historic Ohio Village. All Hallows' Eve will feature a retelling of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by the bonfire, pumpkin carving and strange characters roaming the village. Revel in old-fashioned entertainment for all ages, including fortune telling, crafts, games and more!
Where: East Franklin Street, Circleville
When: October 14-19, Times Vary
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Any Ohioan will tell you, fall means the Circleville Pumpkin Show! The 113th Circleville Pumpkin Show is just south of Columbus and attracts more than 400,000 visitors each year. Check out the parades, rides, entertainment and every kind of pumpkin-flavored treat that you can think of. Be sure to stop by and see the largest pumpkin pie, measuring at 14 feet in diameter, along with all of the massive pumpkins on display around East Franklin Street!
Where: The Ohio Statehouse
When: October 18-19 & 25-26, 7-9 p.m.
See the iconic Ohio Statehouse from a different perspective this Halloween season as you embark on a haunted tour of the building—if you dare! Combine history and legend in this special family-friendly haunted tour, which travels through dimly lit limestone corridors by lantern. This spooky tour features recently found evidence of paranormal activity and is most appropriate for children ages 9 and up. Purchase your tickets for this unique historic tour with a Halloween twist!
Where: The Columbus Zoo
When: Weekends October 11-27, Fridays 5-9 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-9 p.m. & Sundays 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
This "merry-not-scary" Halloween event is a must for little ones of all ages! Go on a trick-or-treating adventure at the Columbus Zoo on the weekends leading up to Halloween, stopping by various treat stations scattered throughout the zoo. Make sure you catch the animals smashing pumpkins, which is a favorite amongst guests each year! Admission to Boo at the Zoo is included with your membership or paid admission to the zoo.
Where: Easton Town Center
When: October 20, 12-3 p.m.

Make sure your fur baby isn't left out of the fall fun! Dress your dog in their best costume and head to Easton Town Center for a special Halloween Pet Parade and Fall Festival. Costumes will be judged and awards are given based on a number of categories, including Best Group, Best Duo, Cutest, Funniest, Most Creative and Scariest. Free registration begins at noon and the parade kicks off at 2 p.m.!
Where: Short North, Columbus
When: October 11-12, Times TBD
Head to the vibrant Short North Arts District for a Halloween party unlike any other! HighBall Halloween is considered one of the nation's most elaborate costume parties, bridging runway style with the culture of this lively area. This festive weekend attracts over 40,000 costumed participants in a celebration of costumes and creativity. The party is taking place along High Street between Goodale Street and Nationwide Boulevard.
Where: Creekside Park & Plaza, Gahanna
When: October 19, 11 a.m-3 p.m.
Don't miss the annual Creepside Festival two Saturdays before Halloween! This event is free and appropriate for all ages with a number of kid-friendly activities, including live music, games, a haunted trail, escape rooms, character interactions, pumpkin painting, trick-or-treating with local organizations, and more. Head to Creekside Park & Plaza in Gahanna for this exciting community event!
Where: Hollywood Casino Columbus
When: November 15-16, Friday 6-10 p.m. & Saturday 12-7 p.m.
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Let us know how you plan to celebrate the season in the comments!
Fall is finally upon us! Crisp morning walks through crunchy leaves, homemade apple pie, pumpkin spice lattes and cozy sweaters—there are so many things we love about this season in Ohio. Don't miss out on these important rituals by attending one of the fall festivals and events happening in and around Cleveland this year!
And because we can't wait until the official first day of fall, we are starting the harvest party a bit earlier in September! From art shows to pumpkin festivals, here are the essential Cleveland events you can't miss this fall.