Hocking Hills, nestled in the heart of Ohio, offers a diverse array of family-friendly activities that cater to both indoor and outdoor enthusiasts. From hands-on museums and interactive art experiences to thrilling outdoor adventures, this picturesque region provides endless opportunities for families to create lasting memories.
Indoor Activities for Rainy Days
When the weather doesn’t cooperate, Hocking Hills has a variety of indoor options to keep the whole family entertained.
- AHA Children’s Museum: This interactive museum is designed specifically for children aged 0-8, featuring engaging exhibits that encourage learning through play.
- Hungry Buffalo’s Bury the Axe: An indoor axe-throwing venue that provides a unique and exciting experience for families.
- Mud Gallery Ceramics & Fine Art: Families can explore their creative side by participating in pottery and art activities at this studio.
- High Rock Indoor Climbing: An indoor climbing facility that offers routes suitable for all skill levels, perfect for adventurous families.
- Hocking Hills Escape Games: Families can test their problem-solving skills and teamwork in immersive escape rooms or mobile scavenger hunts.
Outdoor Adventure Activities
Hocking Hills is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and families can explore a wide range of outdoor activities.
- Hiking: The region boasts seven distinct hiking areas, each with trails suitable for families, featuring waterfalls, stone stairways, and other captivating elements.
- Swimming: Families can cool off at the Logan Community Pool or enjoy the beaches at Lake Logan State Park and Lake Hope State Park.
- Ziplining: Hocking Hills Canopy Tours offers ziplining experiences, including a DragonFly course designed specifically for children aged 5-12.
- Canoeing and Kayaking: Hocking Hills Adventures provides guided canoe and kayak trips down the Hocking River, allowing families to explore the waterways.
- Horseback Riding: Families can experience the beauty of Hocking Hills on horseback, with guided trail rides available.
Nature-Based Activities for Stress and Anxiety
Hocking Hills also offers unique nature-based activities that can help manage stress and anxiety.
- Nature Therapy (Forest Bathing): Guided nature hikes and activities designed to help participants connect with the natural world and find inner peace.
- Ecotour Experiences: Fully-guided nature hikes that immerse families in the geology, history, and local flora of Hocking Hills.
Additional Unique Experiences
Hocking Hills has a few additional unique experiences that families can enjoy.
- Hand-Feeding Hummingbirds: A seasonal activity at Lake Hope State Park where families can hand-feed the beautiful hummingbirds.
- Glass Blowing: Families can watch daily glass-blowing demonstrations at Jack Pine Studio or even take a class to create their own unique art pieces.
- Pencil Sharpener Museum: A quirky museum featuring thousands of unique and fascinating pencil sharpeners.
Cost and Timings
Hocking Hills offers a range of activities with varying costs and timings, allowing families to plan their visit accordingly.
- Hocking Hills State Park: Free admission.
- Logan Community Pool: Prices vary depending on the season and activities.
- Hocking Hills Canopy Tours: Prices vary depending on the ziplining package.
- Hocking Hills Adventures: Prices vary depending on the river trip and activities.
- AHA Children’s Museum: Prices vary depending on the exhibits and activities.
- Hocking Hills Escape Games: Prices vary depending on the escape room package.
Directory and Hours
To help families plan their visit, here’s a directory of the key attractions and their operating hours:
- Hocking Hills Visitor Center: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Hocking Hills State Park: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
- Logan Community Pool: Hours vary depending on the season.
- Hocking Hills Canopy Tours: Hours vary depending on the ziplining package.
- Hocking Hills Adventures: Hours vary depending on the river trip and activities.
- AHA Children’s Museum: Hours vary depending on the exhibits and activities.
- Hocking Hills Escape Games: Hours vary depending on the escape room package.
Hocking Hills offers a diverse range of family-friendly activities, catering to both indoor and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether your family is seeking adventure, relaxation, or a unique cultural experience, this picturesque region in Ohio has something for everyone to enjoy.