Governor DeWine and TourismOhio Unveil 2026 Ohio Travel Guide

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) - Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and TourismOhio today unveiled the 2026 Ohio Travel Guide, a free resource designed to help Ohioans and visitors explore what's new and noteworthy across the state.

This year's cover highlights Playhouse Square in Cleveland, the largest preforming arts center in the country outside of New York. Known for its historic theatres and largest outdoor chandelier in the country, Playhouse Square reflects the energy and creativity shaping communities across Ohio.

The 2026 guide leans into that story, with features that spotlight Ohio's thriving arts and culture scene, from major institutions and local makers and the more than 100 stops along the Ohio Creativity Trail.

"The vibrancy of Cleveland's Playhouse Square reminds us that top-notch arts and culture aren't something you have to travel far to find, they're right here in communities all across Ohio," said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. "From the cover to the featured destinations including Ohio's award-winning state parks, attractions, and Ohioans, this guide shows that Ohio truly is the heart of creativity."

Get Your Ohio Travel Guide Now

Organized into five regions, the guide offers a mix of well-known destinations and under-the-radar finds, with input from Ohioans who know their communities best. It's built for real trips - weekends away, family outings, and spontaneous adventures. Readers will also find interviews with notable Ohioans - leaders, creators, and entrepreneurs making an impact in their communities.

Inside the guide, readers and travelers also will find:

• Natural Attraction - Ohio's diverse regions offer unique adventures for every kind of nature lover - from forests and wetlands to meadows and lakes.
• It's Eerie in Ohio - Ohio has developed a reputation for the spooky with frequent Bigfoot sightings, more hauntings than you can count, and plenty of "out there" destinations to explore.
• Ohio's Spelled with Three Cs - What other state can boast not one, not two, but three major cities? Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland each have their own diverse personalities, but together they complete the heart of it all.
• Arts in Ohio - Explore Ohio's rich artistic heritage showcased on the Ohio Creativity Trail, featuring more than 100 destinations highlighting visual arts, music, literature, folk traditions, glass, pottery, and hand-carved carousels.

"This guide really shows just how much there is to see and do in Ohio," said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development. "From the outdoors to our cities to those unexpected finds along the way, these experiences bring people into our communities and help them grow and thrive."

The 2026 Ohio Travel Guide features Playhouse Square in Cleveland, the largest preforming arts center in the country outside of New York.

The guide is available now in both digital and print formats and can be requested for free at Ohio.org. Printed copies will also be available at key locations across Ohio, including state agencies, county convention and visitors bureaus, airports, libraries, state park lodges, Ohio Turnpike service plazas, rest areas, and welcome centers.

"This guide is meant to be used-dog-eared, marked up, and taken along for the ride," said Sarah Wickham. "Maybe it's a show at Playhouse Square, a state park you've never visited, or a festival you didn't know existed-this is your starting point."

Ohio's tourism industry continues to play a vital role in Ohio's economy, making an impressive $57 billion economic impact with 242 million visits. Of those visits, 48.5 million were overnight stays, highlighting the state's appeal as a premier travel destination. Even more remarkable, 93 percent of visitors were eager to return within the next 12 months, reinforcing Ohio's reputation where unforgettable experiences turn into lifelong traditions.

Playhouse Square draws more than 1 million people annually, contributing in excess of $359 million in local economic impact each year, while also being a national leader in arts education.

"We are so proud to be featured on the cover of this year's Ohio Travel Guide, representing the dynamic arts and cultural offerings that can be found throughout Ohio," said Playhouse Square President & CEO Craig Hassall. "Not only do we enhance the quality of life in our communities and attract visitors, our industry has a significant impact on Ohio's economy. With the support of Governor DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly in enacting the theater tax credit, Playhouse Square has been able to attract more national Broadway tour openings to Ohio which elevates spending, employment, and our state's national and international reputation."

The 2026 Ohio Travel Guide is published by Great Lakes Studios, located in Cleveland, Ohio.

Additional Information and Full Creative Assets Available Here

About TourismOhio

Operating within the Ohio Department of Development, TourismOhio works to showcase all Ohio has to offer as a place of adventure, a place of promise, and the place for you.  

The Ohio Department of Development empowers communities to succeed by investing in Ohio's people, places, and businesses. Learn more about our work at development.ohio.gov.

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For Immediate Release:
April 3, 2026

For more information, contact:
Mason Waldvogel
[email protected]