Ohio offers visitors an authentic slice of America with large cities, beaches along Lake Erie, and banks and piers surrounding the Ohio River. When it’s too cold to explore the land, you can easily see popular attractions when staying at an Ohio vacation rental that puts you right in the heart of the best New Year’s Eve celebrations. Sample fine cuisine in Cleveland, take a scenic train ride in Hocking Hills, or check out the street fair at First Night in Akron. When determining where to go in Ohio to ring in the new year, consider these getaway spots.
1. Cleveland
A New Year’s Eve stay in Cleveland offers something for everyone, including the foodies. The Chef’s Garden at the Culinary Vegetable Institute hosts an annual celebration complete with a seven-course dinner and craft cocktails for the entire family. Entertain the kids with a family-friendly board game at the whimsical festival at the Tabletop Board Game Cafe. Locals and tourists looking for a more formal gathering to ring in the new year head to the New Wave New Year’s at the Clifton Wine and Martini Bar, featuring a special menu and beats by local DJs. The Cleveland Pops Orchestra concert is also a popular activity for music lovers.
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2. Columbus
Vacation rentals in Columbus put you near a New Year’s Eve celebration that includes dueling pianos. The Big Bang Dueling Piano Bar pulls out all the stops for the new year with guest pianists, games, and a champagne toast. You won’t want to miss the city’s grandest event, either. The Valley Dale Ballroom hosts legendary bands performing live music into the wee hours. You can also head over to the well-known German Village, where the celebration includes browsing through specialty shops, visiting the beer gardens, and perusing art on the streets from locals.
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3. Hocking Hills
Do something different this year when opting for a vacation rental in Hocking Hills. The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway gears up for its New Year’s Eve Train extravaganza. Enjoy the pizza and refreshments or wine and cheese as you take a scenic ride through the valley. The city also hosts a fireworks display at midnight. Before boarding the train, spend your day with the family hiking Hocking Hills State Park or tour Ash Cave to see hemlocks and beech trees.
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4. Dayton
Make the cold weather work to your advantage by ice skating until midnight with a vacation rental in Dayton. The Metroparks Ice Rink hosts a special evening for all ages with refreshments, party hats, and of course, ice skates. If you’re wondering where to go in Dayton when you don’t have the kids, consider the New Year’s Eve festivities at the Wine Gallery and Cafe in downtown or enjoy fine dining and lobster risotto at the Salar Restaurant and Lounge.
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5. Akron
Participate in one of the oldest events in Akron — the First Night family event. This festival in downtown Akron includes street performers, rides, food vendors, and a midnight fireworks display. Keep the kids entertained when spending the evening at Laser Quest, an interactive arcade featuring live music throughout the night. For those with dancing feet, consider a more formal gala by reserving a ticket for the New Year’s Eve gala in the Grand Ballroom of the Sheraton Suites. Sip champagne, dine on the freshly carved meats, and watch the balloon drop at midnight.
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6. Toledo
Get all dressed up at your vacation rental and plan to spend the night under the disco ball at the Bryan Moose Family Center’s New Year’s Eve party. Opt for a fancy celebration dinner at NINE, or join the club scene at the Big Room Bar. If you’re wondering where to go in Toledo for a family-friendly evening, the Imagination Station offers interactive games and party favors. Your kids may also enjoy spending the holiday touring the Toledo Police Museum or the battlefields of Fort Meigs.
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7. Cincinnati
Still reeling from holiday celebrations, Cincinnati takes the festivities to a new level with the annual Fountain Square New Year’s Eve Blast. Ice skate with the family, and pick up some party favors from the vendors on-site before entering the annual dance contest on the street. Stick around for the midnight fireworks before retreating back to your vacation rental. Cocktails are also plentiful on New Year’s Eve, whether you’re stopping in at Mynt Martini for complimentary champagne or Igbys for live music and drink specials. The Righteous Room hosts a stress-free celebration, complete with live music.
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8. Canton
A vacation rental in Canton, located within Stark County, puts you in the heart of the city’s New Year’s Eve festivities. The Springsteen Celebration offers a tribute to the rock star at the House of Blues, while the Lions Lincoln Theatre party has screenings of kid-friendly movies. The Palace Movie Party at Canton’s Palace Theatre also puts you right in front of the screen when the clock strikes midnight. Seniors can dance the night away at the Golden Retirees Dance, hosted by the Mayfield Senior Center.
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