Ohio is a flyover state in the United States Midwest region. In 1803, Ohio became the 17th state of the Union. The state spans 44,825 and is known for quite a few unique attributes, including college football and being the birthplace of corn hole, among others. In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 things that the state of Ohio is know for.
To compile this list, 24/7 Tempo researched various sources, including Ohio.gov and Britannica. Read on to learn more about this popular state and what it’s known for.
1. Buckeyes
Ohio is nicknamed the Buckeye State. This is because the state tree is the buckeye. The fruit of the tree contains a large nut smack dab in the middle and bears a peculiar resemblance to a deer’s eye.
In the 1800s, William Henry Harrison used the buckeye wood to make souvenirs. Since then, the nickname has stuck. Buckeye chocolates are a sweet treat that goes hand in hand with the state of Ohio. Additionally, many geographical areas are named after the Buckeye and companies and mascots for schools.
2. Cincinnati Chili
Cincinnati loves to take on the title of being the Chili Capital. Ohioans love their chili, whether it comes from Skyline or Gold-Star. Initially, Cincinnati Chili was created in 1922 by Tom Kiradjieff when he opened Empress, a restaurant.
While the restaurant didn’t do great, the start of “spaghetti chili” began with the five-way and a handful of Middle Eastern Spices. The chili itself has a thinner consistency than typical chili. It is also traditionally enjoyed over a hotdog or spaghetti noodles and topped with cheese.
3. The Birthplace of Aviation
Biplane in the sky clouds
Ohio is also known as being the birthplace of aviation. It was the home of Wilbur and Orville Wright. The two brothers were the first to create and fly an aircraft.
The first successful flight that the brothers had took place in North Carolina in 1903. From there, as they say, the rest is history. We can thank the Wright brothers for their research, hard work, and advances in aviation.
4. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
If you are a rock and roll fan, take a trip to Cleveland to see the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Museum. The physical museum opened in 1995 and has been a place where visitors can flock to see a variety of tributes and spend time appreciating the life and journey of many Rock ‘n’ Roll greats.
5. Amusement Parks
roller coaster high in the summer sky at theme park most excited fun and joyful playing machine
Ohio is a hot spot for amusement parks. These fun attractions include Kings Island, Stricker’s Grove, Cedar Point, and Coney Island. For years, these attractions have given families a fun place to enjoy the weather, each other, and rides and games.
Whether you enjoy a water park or roller coaster or want a place to bring small children, Ohio is no stranger to offering fun entertainment in the form of amusement parks.
Fun fact: The 106th episode of Brady Bunch was filmed at Kings Island. It is titled The Cincinnati Kids and was filmed in 1973.
6. Being the Birthplace of Several Presidents
History buffs love to know the history of the United States presidents. Ohio is a pivotal state for many U.S. presidents. They include:
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- William Henry Harrison
- Ulysses S. Grant
- Rutherford B. Hayes
- James A. Garfield
- Benjamin Harrison
- William McKinley
- William H. Taft
- Warren G. Harding
Several presidential homes and sites can be visited in Ohio, including the Ulysses S. Grant Boyhood Home, the National Mckinley Birthplace Memorial, and the Warren G. Harding Home.
7. Sports
TUCSON, ARIZONA - DECEMBER 30: Tight end Tyler Foster #86 of the Ohio Bobcats celebrates with teammates after scoring the game winning touchdown in overtime of the Barstool Sports Arizona Bowl against the Wyoming Cowboys at Arizona Stadium on December 30, 2022 in Tucson, Arizona. The Bobcats beat the Cowboys 30-27. (Photo by Chris Coduto/Getty Images)
Ohio is also known for several sports. Harry Wright began the first baseball team in 1869. This took place in Cincinnati, and they were called the Cincinnati Red Stockings. Thus began the trail for professional American baseball.
Ohio also had its hand in developing professional football, with the American Professional Football Association founded in Canton. Baseball and football are not the only sports Ohio loves. Basketball, hockey, and soccer are also very popular in this state.
8. Pro Football Hall of Fame
Canton is the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. In 1962, the NFL gave Canton the chance to be the Pro Football Hall of Fame site. This was for a few reasons. Perhaps the most important reason was because Canton is where the American Professional Football Association was founded.
Walking through the museum, especially as a football fan, is an exciting experience. Every year, visitors flock to the attraction to pay tribute to the football greats. Over ten million fans have come through the doors since it opened.
9. Amish Country
Amish Country is a tourist hotspot allowing visitors to experience simplicity and quietness and gain a new perspective on Amish life. While in Amish Country, visitors can participate in several activities. These include visiting small shops, eating an Amish-style dinner, feeding animals, and enjoying the views.
Amish Country is located in Millersburg. Many tourists describe the trip as intriguing, calming, and a much-needed break from a fast-paced world.
10. Birthplace of Thomas Edison and Several Other Inventions
Edison was not the only one born in or inventor to create in Ohio. Granville T. Woods was born in Columbus. He was an important inventor who improved the railroad system.
More inventors from Ohio include:
- John Lambert, automobile
- Charles Kettering, electric car motor
- Ermal Fraze, pop-top can
- James J. Ritty, cash register
- Garrett Morgan, the gas mask
- Charles Goodyear, process of vulcanizing rubber
11. Ohio State Reformatory
The Ohio State Reformatory is located in Mansfield and was built in 1886. Its purpose was to serve as a reformatory for young offenders. While it was abandoned in 1990, it is a hot tourist spot today.
It was the set for five films. These include “The Shawshank Redemption and “Air Force One.” Ghost hunters enjoy exploring the Ohio State Reformatory. Additionally, guests can take the Shawshank trail and see where each pivotal scene was filmed.
12. Ohio State Fair
Giant slide at dusk. Bright yellow with red flags waving in the night wind. Workers at top are blurred by time exposure as well. Shot on a Canon 5D.
The Ohio State Fair began in 1850 and was held from October second to the fourth. During this time, it was estimated that around 25,000 to 30,000 attended the Fair.
In 2023, more than one million people attended the state fair from July 26 to the first week in August. While at the Ohio State Fair, visitors can enjoy many attractions and activities. These include camel rides, helicopter rides, a petting zoo, and pig races. Visitors can also enjoy being greeted by Smokey Bear and learn plenty of essential facts as well.
13. Goetta
Fresh sausage patties isolated on a white background.
Goetta was first introduced to Ohio by German immigrants. It is reminiscent of “poor man’s food” and was developed as a way to stretch one’s dollar.
There are a few different ways to make goetta. However, it typically includes pin-head oats, ground meat, seasonings, onions, and vegetables. Since goetta is a local dish, it is often present during Cincinnati Food Tours.
14. Founding of Alcoholics Anonymous, A.A.
The start of A.A., Alcoholics Anonymous, was in 1935 in Akron. The founding members were Bill W. and Dr. Bob S. They started the group to help others get sober and support one another.
From 1935 until 1939, three founding groups took root, and around 100 alcoholics were able to find sobriety. From there, A.A. has grown into a thriving group that is in 180 nations worldwide.
15. Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park is in Southeastern Ohio and is a beautiful place to visit. While there, visitors can enjoy nature at its finest. Hocking Hills State Park contains cliffs, waterfalls, and gorges.
While there, one can go on a hike, enjoy the park, fish, hunt, bike, go boating, and more.
16. Home to the First Pro Baseball Team
Baseball, bat and ball being hit on a field at a sports training, practice or competition game. Softball, sport equipment and man athlete practicing to swing a wood baton on outdoor pitch or stadium.
The first pro baseball team got started in Cincinnati, as the Cincinnati Red Stockings. They played their first game on May 4, 1869, against another club.
In 1869, Harry Wright admitted that the players on his team were “salaried and proud of it,” making it the first professional baseball team in the history of the sport.
17. Ohio River
The Ohio River spans 981 miles. The formation begins at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers. From there, it spans across Ohio and ends in Cario, Illinois, emptying into the Mississippi River.
The Ohio River is a stunning tourist spot where many enjoy sitting, walking, and enjoying its beauty.
18. Castles
Old fairytale castle on the hill. aerial view. 3d rendering
Ohio is a mega location for visiting castles. Many of these castles are hot spots for ghost hunters, history buffs, and more.
The Brumback Library is a Gothic and Romanesque style, complete with turreted towers. Additionally, Franklin Castle, or the Tiedemann House, is a popular destination for fans of urban legends. Some people believe it to be the most haunted house in Ohio. These are not the only castles one can visit in Ohio, however. A simple search will bring up several tourist spots to enjoy if Victorian architecture, history, and more are some things you enjoy.
19. Legendary Creatures Like Bigfoot and Ohio Grassman
Pictures of Fresh snow in a forest.
People love urban legends and legendary creature stories, and Ohio is packed full of them! Ohio folklore shares many stories of bigfoot sightings in the wilderness.
Additionally, the Grassman is a popular urban legend. He is said to be Bigfoot’s cousin and looks more like a human. More folklore creatures that Ohioans love include:
- The Cedar Bog Monster
- Mothman
- Frogman
- Dogman
- Melon Heads
- Lake Erie Bessie
- Charles Mill Monster
- Orange Eyes
- Crosswick Monster
- Pennisula Python
20. Cornhole
Homemade corn hole board game in grass in summertime
While cornhole wasn’t invented in Ohio, it is a Cincinnati favorite. There are a few different theories of where this game first began. Some say it was in Germany; others believe a Kentucky farmer created it. Others still draw connections with the Blackhawk tribe of Illinois.
Regardless, Ohioans love the game of cornhole. Fans love to play it in front of the stadium before the NFL games.
If you don’t know what cornhole is, it is a simple game that can be played in a group of two or four. Players take turns throwing the bags eight meters into a hole that is on a slanted board. When the bags go in the hole, the player receives three points. If it stays on the board, they get one point. While simple, it can be pretty challenging! (Click here to read about 22 of the most popular board games in the U.S.)