If you’re in Ohio or planning a visit and looking for a kid-friendly adventure, Hocking Hills is a fantastic destination to explore with your little ones. I took my toddler to Hocking Hills recently, and it was an incredible experience. Here’s a detailed account of our fun-filled day and some tips and recommendations.
Planning the Trip
Before heading out, I turned to ChatGPT to help create an itinerary for the day. It was the best decision! I knew the key places we wanted to visit—Ash Cave, Fox High Rock Farm, and Hocking Hills Children’s Museum—but I needed guidance on restaurants and the best order of activities. ChatGPT’s recommendations made everything seamless.
Essential Packing Tips
Before diving into our adventures, a few packing tips:
- Extra Clothes: Toddlers tend to get messy, so changing clothes is essential.
- Water: Stay hydrated, especially during hot summer days.
- Snacks: Keep plenty of snacks on hand to keep your little one happy and energized.
First Stop: Ash Cave
Our first destination was Ash Cave, one of the most family-friendly hikes at Hocking Hills. It’s ADA-accessible, making it easy for little ones to explore. My toddler insisted on walking rather than being in the carrier, which was great as she explored the dirt and climbed on the rocks. Although the waterfall was just a trickle because of low rainfall, it didn’t dampen our spirits. We enjoyed a picnic in the shaded area afterward, a perfect spot to relax and refuel.
Second Stop: Fox High Rock Farm Petting Zoo
Next, we visited Fox High Rock Farm, a petting zoo that was a highlight of our trip. It was my toddler’s first time at a petting zoo, and she loved it. The animals were friendly, and we fed donkeys, goats, and others. The petting zoo was not crowded, which made the experience even more enjoyable. A major plus was the bathroom with running water – a must after touching animals.
Lunch Break: Millstone BBQ
For lunch, we decided to try Millstone BBQ. The food was delicious, and I highly recommend the chicken, which had a nice spicy kick. Finding places with genuinely spicy food is sometimes challenging, but this place did not disappoint. It was a great spot to cool down and enjoy a hearty meal before our next adventure.
Final Stop: Hocking Hills Children’s Museum
Our last stop was the Hocking Hills Children’s Museum, and it was a hit! The museum is designed like a mini-town with various pretend play areas, all donated by local businesses. My toddler loved the foam sand pit and the water play area. There were also numerous costumes for dress-up, adding to the fun. She had such a great time that she didn’t want to leave, ending our visit with a classic toddler tantrum.
Conclusion
Our day at Hocking Hills was fantastic. We arrived around 10 AM and left around 5:30 PM, making it a full day of fun and adventure. I highly recommend exploring Hocking Hills with your kids if you’re in Ohio or visiting. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors, breathe fresh air, and create beautiful memories with your family.
Thank you for reading about our Hocking Hills adventure. If you enjoyed this post, please like, subscribe, and share it with your friends. See you next time!
