13 Top-Rated Resorts in Ohio

Author Anietra Hamper is an Ohio native and has traveled the state extensively, from the shores of Lake Erie to the north fishing for perch & walleye to the rolling Hocking Hills region in the south.

Ohio offers visitors a lot of choices when it comes to resorts throughout the state. All-inclusive family options like Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky make getting away easy, and secluded resorts like the new Hocking Hills State Park Lodge in Logan surround you with some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Ohio.

From luxury resorts with lakeshore views along Lake Erie to full-service retreats and lodge-style resorts tucked within Ohio's lush woodlands and even several castles-turned-lodging, there are plenty of ways to tailor your getaway and accommodation without needing to leave the property, unless you want to.

To help you make the most of your time, we've put together this list of Ohio's top resorts.

1. Great Wolf Lodge, Sandusky

Accommodation: Great Wolf Lodge

Part of one of North America's best-known family vacation brands, Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky is one of Ohio's top resorts for families. And yes, this place really is all about the kids. Not to say that parents can't have fun, though. Young and old alike are spoiled for choice with so many great things to do here, from the indoor water park to activities and programs to keep everyone busy.

The resort also boasts a variety of dining options, including some just for mom and dad (yes, babysitting services are available). Other on-site activities include working out at the fitness center or shopping for souvenirs. Spa services are also available and include an ice-cream spa option for kids.

When it comes to bedtime, the fun continues in-room thanks to the wonderful themed accommodation options on offer. Among the most popular are the spacious family suites. These plush units come complete with two queen beds, a pullout sofa bed, and plenty of space to spread out in the living area.

Children love the KidCabin suites, too. These fun units come with their very own mini log cabin for play and sleep, and include bunk beds. There are also a number of two-story lofts, each with its own fireplaces and living areas.

Address: 4600 Milan Road, Sandusky, Ohio

2. Hocking Hills State Park Lodge

Accommodation: Hocking Hills State Park Lodge

The Hocking Hills State Park Lodge is one of the newest resorts in Ohio, in Logan at the heart of the Hocking Hills Region. This 74,000-square-foot lodge sits among the dense southern Ohio forests where you can enjoy some of the best outdoor adventures in Ohio, from ziplining and canoeing to hiking.

The original lodge was destroyed by fire in 2016 and the new resort recently opened with floor-to-ceiling windows in the mezzanine sky bridge to invite the outdoors inside. This timber-framed lodge has lots of nooks and corridors where guests can sit and relax with a book or just enjoy the views of the forests and sandstone gorges.

The 81 guest rooms range from standard to luxury suites, and 40 cozy cabins offer more seclusion. There are even pet-friendly cabins available. The Rock House Restaurant is where to go for a bite to eat on the property, or you can pick up a sandwich from the grab-and-go café and take it with you to picnic during your hike in the state park.

Address: 20020 OH-664, Logan, Ohio

3. The Grand Resort, Warren

Accommodation: The Grand Resort

The Grand Resort in Warren is exactly that — grand in every way. This luxury resort in northeast Ohio has guest rooms and suites with elegant décor including textured wallpaper, ceramic tile in the bathrooms, and upgraded mattresses.

If your budget has no boundaries then you can spring for the Presidential or Grand Spa Suites that offer added comforts like multi-room options, kitchens, entertainment areas, custom stone showers, and heated Jacuzzis.

Staying relaxed is no problem with six swimming pools to choose from, including an outdoor Roman Bath that is open year round and heated to a consistent 90 degrees and an Olympic-size pool for swimming laps. You can go for a swim before or after exercising in the state-of-the-art fitness center. There is also a full-service spa and salon on the property for extra pampering.

Dining on-site is no problem, with nine restaurants and two lounges at the resort, with indoor and outdoor seating options. The Grand Resort is located near the Avalon Lakes premier golf course and across the street from the Medici Museum of Art.

Address: 9519 E. Market Street, Warren, Ohio

4. The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake, Geneva

Accommodation: The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake

Located on the shores of Lake Erie, the 4-star Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake has long been one of Ohio's leading vacation destinations. The lodge offers 109 rooms and suites, with a popular choice being the delightfully decorated standard rooms. These bright, modern rooms come with two queen beds and handy in-room amenities, including mini-fridges and coffee makers.

Also worth considering are the larger premium suites. These spacious units feature king beds, electric fireplaces, and separate seating areas. A number of even larger queen and king suites are also available, too. These spacious units come with a cozy living area, a pullout sofa bed, as well as a kitchenette with a mini fridge, microwave, and sink. The lodge also offers lakeside cottages.

Other amenities guests are encouraged to make use of include large indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, on-site dining, and a fully-equipped fitness center. Feel like some pampering? Check out the luxurious spa facilities and treatment rooms, or indulge in services such as couples' massages.

Nearby activities include bike rentals and trails, along with snowshoe and ski rentals. There's even a zipline adventure park.

Address: 4888 N Broadway, Geneva, Ohio

5. Hotel Breakers at Cedar Point, Sandusky

Accommodation: Hotel Breakers at Cedar Point

One of Ohio's largest resorts, Cedar Point's Hotel Breakers in Sandusky is very much focused on families and family fun. This hotel is just steps away from two of the state's most popular attractions: the spectacular Cedar Point theme park — dubbed the "world's roller coaster capital" — and the equally popular Cedar Point Shores Water Park.

In addition to its standard accommodations, this popular hotel also offers those needing more space a choice of larger suites and cabins with extra beds and separate living areas. Guest perks and privileges include free Wi-Fi, the use of indoor and outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs, and splash zones for the kids.

Guests also have direct resort access to the theme parks. Best of all, ticket discounts plus early admission to beat the crowds are offered as part of your stay. The hotel also has a Starbucks on-site, along with restaurants and a shuttle service when the urge for off-site dining strikes.

Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, Ohio

6. Landoll's Mohican Castle, Loudonville

Accommodation: Landoll's Mohican Castle

Landoll's Mohican Castle is a wonderfully quirky luxury resort that's well worth visiting. Located in Loudonville, this secluded Gothic-style resort offers a variety of themed lodgings that add a degree of fun to the pampering on offer.

Consisting of 11 sumptuous suites in the main "castle" itself, plus a further four in a separate building and two stand-alone cottages, Landoll's offers guests a variety of amenities to enjoy, too. These include a heated indoor swimming pool, a hot tub, a sauna, a fitness center, and a variety of massage services. There's also an on-site restaurant with a patio for alfresco dining.

The resort hosts regular themed events, including murder mysteries, comedy evenings, and ghost walks, so try to time your stay accordingly if you are interested. A variety of Christmas packages are also available.

While no two rooms at Landoll's are the same, each comes with its own distinct charm and character. Favorites include the elegant Hess Suites. These elegant units each come with nice flourishes such as original artwork, oriental rugs, medieval-style Chinese tiles, hardwood floors, beamed ceilings, stone fireplaces, kitchenettes, and large separate living areas.

For something truly memorable, opt for the Macbeth Cottage. Features of this exquisite, pet-friendly, stand-alone building include a Jacuzzi tub, private porch, and deck. There's even an intimate dining nook.

Address: 561 Township Road 3352, Loudonville, Ohio

7. Inn Walden, Aurora

Accommodation: Inn Walden

The award-winning, 5-star Inn Walden in Aurora, Ohio — just a short drive from downtown Cleveland — offers guests an unsurpassed luxury experience in the midst of the state's Western Reserve Park.

Centered on what's billed as a "spa lifestyle," this high-end development consists of deluxe accommodations, a world-class spa, a yoga center, residential units, and a golf club. In addition to its many spa services and experiences, the resort also offers guests other things to do including access to its golf course, equestrian center, and fitness facilities. Both fine- and casual dining options are available, and the grounds make for a perfect backdrop for weddings.

Inn Walden itself is the biggest draw for vacationers. The accommodations are sumptuous and consist of a variety of spacious suites suitable for everyone from couples to large groups and families traveling together. Among the most popular options are the contemporary Equestrian Suites. These large, spacious open-concept units are beautifully decorated and come with walk-in showers, huge jet bathtubs, and cozy fireplaces.

Also worth checking for availability are the roomy Loft Suites. These popular units come with plenty of living space, as well as large dormer windows, private breakfast patios with lovely garden views, and separate living rooms. A great full breakfast is included with your stay.

Address: 1119 Aurora Hudson Road, Aurora, Ohio

8. Hueston Woods Lodge & Convention Center, College Corner

Accommodation: Hueston Woods Lodge & Convention Center

Set amid rolling countryside adjacent to its own private lake, Hueston Woods Lodge & Convention Center offers a high degree of peace and tranquility. This resort is as popular for those wanting a quiet, romantic getaway as it is for those seeking a little outdoor adventure.

Accommodations include standard queen and king rooms with lovely views and balconies looking out to Acton Lake to elegant luxury suites featuring separate bedrooms. These larger accommodations also feature separate living areas, plasma TVs, plush bathrobes, and private balconies.

Larger groups and families may want to consider booking one of the resort's quaint stand-alone two-bedroom cabins. These charming units come complete with a kitchen and screened-in porch. A number of cozy couples' cabins are also available and are perfect for romantic weekend getaways, honeymoons, and anniversaries.

Whether traveling as a couple or a family, there's no end of fun things to do here, too. Resort amenities include indoor/outdoor swimming pools, a games room, a restaurant offering a great buffet lunch and dinner, a gift shop, a golf course, a badminton court, a kids' playground, and nature trails. Popular with teens and young adults, the paintball facility offers plenty of fun.

Address: 5201 Lodge Road, College Corner, Ohio

9. Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, Sandusky

Accommodation: Kalahari Resorts & Conventions

Another of Sandusky's popular vacation spots, the Africa-themed Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is as much an area attraction as it is a resort. The resort is part of a vast complex that includes two huge waterparks — one indoors, one outdoors — as well as the Safari Outdoor Adventure Park animal park, complete with mini-zoo and ziplines. Water rides are rated from calm to extreme, ensuring that everyone from toddlers to teens are entertained.

The resort also offers a unique take on its accommodation offerings. Each of its spacious suites come with king or queen beds and separate living areas, and for larger groups of friends or families traveling together, multiple units can be combined into configurations of up to 10 bedrooms, including a kitchen.

Another option for large groups is to shoot for the Entertainment Villa. This spectacular two-level building is set apart from the main resort and comes with an impressive five bedrooms, four bathrooms, a spacious kitchen, seven flat-screen TVs, a recreation room featuring a pool table, and a private patio.

Address: 7000 Kalahari Drive, Sandusky, Ohio

10. Salt Fork Lodge & Conference Center, Cambridge

Accommodation: Salt Fork Lodge & Conference Center

Comprising 148 spacious guest rooms and cabins, the massive Salt Fork Lodge & Conference Center is set in a heavily wooded area deep in the heart of Ohio. Popular for nature and outdoors lovers, this sprawling complex offers plenty of room to spread out and explore, including 14 hiking trails, as well as a beach suitable for kids.

The real draw, though, is having access to the resort's 3,000-acre Salt Fork Lake, one of the best lakes in Ohio for swimming, boating, and fishing. This spectacular body of water includes two marinas offering boat rentals and launches.

Other things to do include visiting the Kennedy Stone House Museum, joining in a guided nature tour and educational program, or enjoying some horseback riding. Turkey and deer hunting are also available in season.

The resort's large dining room serves meals throughout the day, with casual- and fine-dining options available. Also on-site are a gift shop, ample parking for RVs, meeting rooms, and an 18-hole golf course. There are also indoor-outdoor swimming pools, a fitness center, and a volleyball court. When the snow flies, guests can enjoy winter activities including sledding, skating, and cross-country skiing, to name but a few.

As for accommodations, Salt Fork Lodge can easily handle everything from couples' romantic getaways to large groups and conventions. Popular options include standard double and king rooms, and bunk rooms with two double beds and a set of bunk beds.

For those traveling as a family or with friends, the even larger two-bedroom chalets are worth considering. These spacious, well-appointed units come with everything from a full kitchen to a fire pit and magnificent views over the lake.

Address: US Route 22 E, Cambridge, Ohio

11. Belamere Suites Hotel, Perrysburg

Accommodation: Belamere Suites Hotel

For those looking for an authentic home-away-from-home experience, Belamere Suites in Perrysburg certainly delivers. Accommodations consist of 35 large and well-appointed suites boasting their own private entrance. Interior highlights include magnificent vaulted ceilings, cozy fireplaces, and large bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs and walk-in showers (both big enough for two).

Fancy splurging? Then why not upgrade to one of the even larger Presidential, Royal, or Grand Royal Pool Suites? Each of these sumptuous accommodations boasts its own personal heated swimming pool and sauna.

Other guest amenities worth mentioning include private parking in your own attached single-car garage, in-room breakfast and late-night snack service, 24-hour concierge, and satellite TV. Other available services include in-suite massages for couples. A continental breakfast is included with your stay, while tasty fresh-baked treats are also available for a fee.

Address: 12200 Williams Road, Perrysburg, Ohio

12. Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center, Oregon

Accommodation: Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center

One of Ohio's larger resorts with convention and meeting space attached, Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center in the city of Oregon is popular for its unique location in Maumee Bay State Park. Open to guests year-round, this sprawling complex is popular with families and larger groups due to its first-rate facilities and spacious rooms and suites.

Accommodation options include standard single and double rooms in the main lodge building. These come with a private balcony or patio (if available, ask for a unit with a lake view). If traveling as a larger group or family, opt for one of the lovely two- or four-bedroom cabins. Each of these units features full kitchens, living rooms, gas fireplaces, charcoal barbecues, and screened-in porches. Traveling with pets? A number of these standalone units have been designated as pet-friendly.

There's also much to do outdoors, too, from playing a round of golf to exploring the park on foot via its extensive trail network. In addition to the park's abundant wildlife, guests can also enjoy some downtime with the kids on a number of great beaches, stroll some two miles of boardwalks, or hop aboard a paddleboat.

Other activities include grabbing a canoe rental to explore the resort's 57-acre inland lake, fishing, and exploring endless hiking and biking trails. There's also a first-rate nature center that's worth a visit.

On-site amenities include indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, saunas, a splash pool area for kids, a playground, tennis and basketball courts, and spa services. Dining is also available at the on-site restaurants, and a gift and snack shop are located on the property, too.

Address: 1750 State Park Road #2, Oregon, Ohio

13. Ravenwood Castle, New Plymouth

Accommodation: Ravenwood Castle

Located in the pretty Hocking Hills area, Ravenwood Castle adds a fairy-tale quality to any vacation. Built to resemble a medieval English fortress, this country inn offers guests an array of wonderfully themed accommodations to choose from. In the fortress-like main building, exquisitely furnished luxury options include the spacious Rapunzel's Tower (yes, it's on the top floor) with a queen bed and elegantly furnished living area and fireplace.

Also worth considering is the refined Queen Victoria Suite, complete with 19th-century furniture, a queen bed, a fireplace, and a private deck overlooking the treed grounds. Then there's the huge King Arthur Suite, a two-story affair featuring a king bed on the upper floor (complete with Arthurian mural) and a balcony.

Other options include a number of exquisitely decorated Medieval Village Cottages. These include the lovely Cinderella's Coach House, a favorite for brides and wedding parties. Located above the property's tearoom, this large suite even comes with stained-glass windows. A number of traditional rustic cabins are also available in Huntsman's Hollow, a pleasant "village" set next to a creek.

On-site amenities include a restaurant, dining hall, and games rooms (not surprisingly, Ravenwood is a popular location for Dungeons and Dragons-style gaming). A hearty complimentary breakfast is included with your stay, and weekend guests are treated to homemade cinnamon rolls on Sundays. Nearby attractions include a number of national and state parks.

Address: 65666 Bethel Road, New Plymouth, Ohio