
Planning a trip or looking for a new home? Thanks to social media, you no longer have to interpret vague written descriptions of people, places, activities, and events. High-quality, detailed pictures are just as close as your cell phone.
Follow these wonderful Instagram accounts to learn more about all the amazing attractions of Northeast Ohio, Columbus, and Cincinnati.
Want to learn more about Ohio's historical sites and impressive architecture? Ohio Travel shines the spotlight on the state's county seats and the distinctive buildings located there. Take in the stunning grandeur of locations such as the Hancock County Courthouse, Great American Crossroads Mural in Bucyrus, and Court Avenue in Bellefontaine, the oldest concrete road in America. Ohio Travel also features quirky landmarks like the former Longaberger Co. headquarters, AKA "the picnic basket building," and the New Straitsville Museum, with its recreation of a classic barbershop with the original chairs and mirrors.
View this post on Instagram
Taking its name from the state's tourism slogan, Ohio. Find It Here. promotes the diversity of attractions and experiences available to tourists and residents. Categories covered include Outdoor & Recreation, Family, Food & Shopping, and Hotels & Lodging. The site also features things to do and see based on seasons, holidays, and regions. Find information about weather, roads, and highways to help with your planning. You may find yourself in one of the Instagram posts showing people enjoying the Columbus Zoo, Hocking Hills State Park, and other attractions.
Florida and California may have year-round sunshine, but nothing compares to the four seasons of beauty found in Ohio. The natural wonders found in the photos on Ohio Explored include a rainbow over Lakewood, a cascading waterfall at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and a "tunnel" of trees in Sugarcreek MetroPark. Mother Nature's drama is on display during a stormy day at the Clifton Mill and a water spout hovering over Lake Erie. Since beauty can be found in several diverse places, there are also shots of ice cream cones, cookies, and coffee mugs.
View this post on Instagram
As the state capital and home of Ohio State University, Columbus is a huge draw. Experience Columbus is full of images showcasing the people, places, and activities that make up this dynamic city. Pictures celebrate outdoor murals, local sports teams, the downtown skyline, historic architecture, and scenic parks, to name just a few subjects.
614 is, of course, the area code for Columbus. It's also the title of a lifestyle magazine covering all things Columbus, from news and civic affairs to food and drink to arts and music. Their lively Instagram account features information about special events such as Restaurant Week, What? Music and Arts Festival, and Columbus Brewing's recent pop-up market. Have fun with the interactive posts, such as the poll for "Best Burger" that raised money for local charities.
View this post on Instagram
If you spend any time at all on social media, chances are you've seen the irresistible articles from Only in Your State. This site takes a deep dive into the unique features of each state, promoting the fascinating but little-known attractions that are off the beaten path. Only in Ohio is their account devoted exclusively to the charms of the Buckeye State. Marvel at a glowing full moon above Mile Long Pier in Lorain, step down into Old Man's Cave at Hocking Hills State Park and follow the boardwalk in Brown's Lake Bog near Wooster. Tag your photos with @only.in.ohio to share your favorite spots!
How many cities have a footprint that spans three states? The Cincinnati region extends from Ohio into Kentucky and Indiana, making it a great jumping-off spot to explore as well as a vibrant destination in its own right. Visit Cincy is the Instagram account of the Cincinnati Convention and Visitors Bureau, so you can be sure they have the lowdown of all the points of interest. Did you know Cincinnati is home to the most extensive living mural ever created? What is the backstory of downtown's iconic Tyler Davidson Fountain, also known as the Genius of Water? These are only a couple of the fun facts you'll learn when you follow this account.
View this post on Instagram
According to Ohio Magazine, life in the Buckeye State is all about "beauty, adventure, and fun." The Instagram account is an offshoot of the popular publication documenting these aspects of Ohio for more than 40 years. Their photos continue the same theme, sometimes capturing all three features in one image. Recent posts include the Home for the Holidays tree lighting in Delaware, "A Christmas Carol" at Cleveland's Playhouse Square, and a flashback to the memorable OSU-Michigan "Snow Bowl" in 1950. Be sure to click on the link to their bio, which features a directory of links on a wide range of categories such as Best Hometowns, Road Trips, Famous Ohio Foods, and Ohio's Great Outdoors.
Ohio's second-largest city, situated on the shores of Lake Erie, certainly merits its own Instagram account. Destination Cleveland, maintained by the convention and visitors bureau, covers every inch of the area, from downtown and the neighborhoods to the suburbs and outlying region. In December, the site is doing a small business "Advent calendar" highlighting a different dining or retail option each day. These types of posts focus on Cleveland's identity as a fast-paced urban center, but you'll also be delighted at the spectacular scenery in many of the photos.
Do you have a favorite photo that captures the essence of Ohio? Where was it taken?