HOCKING HILLS PHOTO BY HUCK BEARD

My fifth-grade daughter and her friends will say “skibidi Ohio” (among other nonsense words) when something isn’t cool, but I’m here to tell you that our neighboring state of Ohio actually is very cool, or — as the kids would say — it has rizz.

From the natural wonders of Hocking Hills and Cuyahoga Falls to entertainment destinations such as the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Cedar Point, the Buckeye State is full of amazing things to see and do. Here’s where to go — and where to stay — all within a three-hour drive of Pittsburgh.
 

Village Gem

Chagrin Falls

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Featuring the original hand-cut beams from the 1800s, this century-old gem is located within three blocks of the charming town’s Chagrin Falls viewing area. Bisected by the picturesque Chagrin River, the town’s main street is filled with enchanting places to eat and shop, such as the Evergreen Bakery and Fireside Book Shop.

Price: $225 per night
 

Natural Wonder

Hocking Hills

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

Perfect for outdoor lovers, the A-frame buildings at Chalets at Old Man’s Cave near Hocking Hills State Park are a romantic, cozy and comfortable place to stay when you’re done hiking, biking, kayaking or otherwise exploring the scenic area. Arranged along the ridge of a hill, each chalet has a private deck with a hot tub, grill and view into mature woods. The property also includes a pool, firepits, SaunaPods, electric vehicle charging stations, an office and the neighboring General Store.

Price: $180 per night
 

Cozy Retreat

Cuyahoga Falls 

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

After marveling over the 65-foot Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga Valley National Park and taking a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, settle in for the night at this cozy retreat in the center of the quaint town of Cuyahoga Falls. The newly revitalized Front Street has everything from dining and cocktails to boutiques and coffee shops, among them The Workz, a former theater converted into a restaurant, arcade and speakeasy, and Jean + Lou boutique.

Price: $215 per night
 

Sleek in the City

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland 

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

With views of Lake Erie and downtown Cleveland, this elevated modern condo with a rooftop patio is less than a mile from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and is within walking distance of the city’s local breweries and other attractions such as the Cleveland Harbor West Pierhead Lighthouse, Greater Cleveland Aquarium and Huntington Bank Field, home of Steelers nemesis the Browns. If you’re looking to get into the holiday spirit, don’t forget to check out the infamous “A Christmas Story” House, which is located only a few miles from the condo.

Price: $121 per night
 

Ready to Ride

Cedar Point, Sandusky

PHOTO COURTESY VRBO

There’s more to Sandusky than the Cedar Point amusement park, although that’s pretty thrilling on its own. After a day of rides, relax at this Sandusky Bay oasis overlooking the Jackson Street Pier — a former ferry boat lot turned entertainment destination — or take in a meal at the Shore House Tavern. For families looking for fun, the popular Kalahari and Castaway Bay indoor water parks are right around the corner, as is the African Safari Wildlife Park.

Price: $109 per night