This blog post is written in partnership with Ohio. Find it Here. All pictures and opinions are my own unless noted otherwise.

Are you planning a family vacation in Ohio? Look no further than Mansfield, a city with plenty of attractions and activities that will keep the whole family entertained. From the Kingwood Center Gardens to the Mansfield Reformatory, there is no shortage of exciting places to explore in Mansfield. For a fun and educational experience, be sure to visit the Buckeye Imagination Museum, where your kids can let their imaginations run wild in a variety of interactive exhibits. And don’t forget to check out the Richland Carrousel Park, which offers a nostalgic ride on a beautifully restored carousel. With so much to see and do, Mansfield is the perfect destination for your next family vacation.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best family-friendly activities in Mansfield, Ohio.

Where to Eat & Drink

All Aboard the Buckeye Express Diner: Ohio-themed Dining in a Vintage Rail Car

Calling all Ohio State Buckeye Fans! You won’t want to miss this unique Ohio-themed eatery located in a vintage rail car in Bellville, Ohio. Buckeye Express Diner is a family-friendly restaurant is packed with Ohio memorabilia and serves up delicious American comfort food that is sure to please. With a welcoming and friendly staff and an outdoor play area for kids, it’s the perfect spot for a fun and memorable meal with your family. Don’t miss out on the mouthwatering BLT sandwich, which is said to be the best around, and the crispy, fluffy fries that are a customer favorite. Visit this Ohio gem at 810 OH-97 in Bellville, OH 44813 for a one-of-a-kind dining experience that celebrates all things Ohio.

Energize Your Day with a Visit to Relax! It’s just Coffee

If you’re a coffee lover, you won’t want to miss a visit to Relax! It’s just Coffee. It’s a really cool coffee shop in the historic Carousel District, that serves up some seriously good coffee, tea, and yummy baked goods. The staff were super friendly and welcoming, which made us feel right at home. My girls loved their hot chocolate and were over the moon when I surprised them with a slice of cake! They said it was the BEST coffee shop ever! Plus, they’ve got art on display and live music sometimes, which adds to the unique vibe. Whether you’re in the mood for a caffeine fix, a quick snack, or just a chill place to hang out, make sure to swing by Relax! It’s just Coffee in Mansfield.

Coney Island Diner: A Hidden Gem for Family-Friendly Dining

Looking for a small-town dining experience with a family-friendly atmosphere? Look no further Coney Island Diner is a hidden gem with welcoming staff and delicious food. Be sure to try the famous Coney and Pea salad, which is a local favorite. The milkshakes and pancakes are also a hit with the kids, making it the perfect place for a family outing. If you’re looking for a recommendation, we would 1000% recommend a visit to this restaurant. With its sweet servers and fantastic food, it’s a must-visit spot for anyone in the area.

Fun Fact: The Cone Island Diner was founded by a Greek immigrant who went by an Americanized name — John Georgie. Georgie started off selling his family’s cuisine at a food truck with crackers to factory workers. Around 1919, he opened Cone Island in a small, tent-foot wide building with just a counter and stools, serving a simple menu of coneys, pies, and chili. Georgie moved his business to Coney Island’s current location in 1936, where customers were greeted by a neon sign advertising 5 cent coneys — which was a great deal back then! Today, Coney Island Diner is a beloved landmark in the community, serving up classic diner fare with a side of nostalgia.

Address: 98 N Main St, Mansfield, OH 44902

Kelley’s Ice Cream: A Hole-in-One Destination for Mini Golf, Driving Range, and Delicious Treats

Looking for a family-friendly spot here you can enjoy a game of mini golf, hit some balls at the driving range, and indulge in delicious ice cream? Head on over to Kelley’s Ice Cream, the ultimate family-friendly destination! This place has it all, from a fantastic driving range and mini-golf course to a full dairy bar that serves up both hard and soft-serve ice cream in a plethora of flavors. With a menu that caters to all tastes and preferences, Kelley’s is the perfect spot to indulge in a quick sweet treat or a full meal. And with over 70,000 possible combinations of ice cream shakes and sundaes, you can truly let your imagination run wild! Open from March to October, Kelley’s is the go-to spot for some serious family fun.

Where to Play

Let Your Imagination Run Wild at the Buckeye Imagination Museum

We had an amazing time at the Buckeye Imagination Museum! The girls had an absolute blast and would have happily stayed there all day if they could. There are endless opportunities for imaginative play throughout the entire space, from building and dressing up to pretending to be a beautician in the salon or putting on a show at the theater. The museum is divided into different galleries, with the Yellow Gallery housing the lobby, indoor playground, airport exhibit, giant blue blocks, camping area, and racetrack exhibit. The entire space was clean and well-maintained, and the staff was incredibly friendly and helpful.

Read all about our visit here.

Get lost in paradise at Kingwood Center Garden

Kingwood Center Gardens is a must-visit!! Spanning a whopping 47 acres, this garden is a paradise for flower lovers and tree huggers alike. You’ll be blown away by the meticulously maintained gardens, from the enchanting French Parterre to the charming sunken garden and the exotic plants in the greenhouse. Take your time strolling through the gardens, breathing in the fresh air and soaking up the sights and scents. Or, for an extra-special experience, opt for a guided tour and learn all about the fascinating history and design behind the gardens. Trust us, a visit to Kingwood Center Gardens is an absolute must for nature enthusiasts and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life!

If you’re looking for a fun and educational adventure for your children, the Peacock Playhouse in Kingwood is the perfect destination. The playhouse offers a variety of activities that allow kids and families to explore nature in different ways. Whether you prefer reading books, playing garden games, or creating masterpieces, there’s something for everyone at the Peacock Playhouse.

Interestingly, the Peacock Playhouse was once the Gate House, which served as the chauffeur’s office and garage space during Mr. King’s time. Today, it has been transformed into a sensory center that encourages children to learn about nature in a fun and interactive way.

The center is designed for self-exploration, but staff members are available throughout the day to offer guidance and answer questions.

Nearby, you’ll also find the Storybook Trail, a literacy adventure suitable for all ages. Take a leisurely stroll through a woodland path while discovering When Spring Comes, a book written by Kevin Henkes and illustrated by Laura Dronzek.

The Display Greenhouse was an absolute paradise for me – I was in awe! The greenhouse is a stunning collection of individual houses, each devoted to different types of plants such as tropicals, succulents, bromeliads, and seasonal arrangements. In addition, it serves as home to our production houses where thousands of annuals are grown annually for our outdoor displays.

At Kingwood Center Gardens, the opportunities for discovery are endless!

Discover the Magic of Malabar Farm State Park: Nature, History, and Fun for All

Malabar Farm State Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This 900-acre park was once the home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield, and features a beautifully restored 32-room mansion that visitors can tour. The park also offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Our favorite part was The Main Barn, which is home to a variety of friendly animals, including ponies, horses, goats, sheep, and rabbits. Visitors of all ages are welcome to stop by and say hello free of charge between 8 am and 5 pm every day. During the spring, you might even get to meet some newborn goat kids and lambs, while the summer brings the addition of pigs to the barn.

Don’t miss out on the chance to take a guided tour of the farm, which includes a wagon ride for larger groups or a golf cart for smaller groups, weather permitting. During the tour, you’ll learn all about the farm’s history and sustainability practices while enjoying the beautiful scenery. For an extra treat, book a tour of the Bromfield family home, but be aware that this museum tour is not recommended for young children.

The park’s hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the farm and park, with a range of options suitable for both hikers and horseback riders. When you’re ready to take a break, stop by the Louis Bromfield Visitor Education Center to check out interactive exhibits on topics like wildlife, energy, conservation, and literature, or browse the gift shop for souvenirs, fudge, snacks, and Ohio-made products. You might even be greeted by a bird friend who has a A LOT to say!

If you’re still feeling energetic after all of that, head to the playground located just behind the Visitors Center to let your little ones burn off some extra energy and have some fun!

Explore Alison Pence’s Colorful Murals: Bringing Life to Mansfield, One Wall at a Time

If you’re looking for a unique and Instagram-worthy experience in Mansfield, be sure to check out the stunning murals created by Ohio-based artist Alison Pence. With each mural she completes, Pence adds a touch of beauty and creativity to the city. Don’t miss her famous “angel wings” mural located in an alley near the Brickyard in Mansfield, which has become a popular spot for visitors to snap photos. These vibrant and colorful murals showcase the artistic talent that can be found in Mansfield and make for a great addition to any trip to the area.

Where to Stay

Make a Splash with Your Family Stay at Comfort Inn in Bellville, Ohio

If you’re planning a family trip to Mansfield, Ohio, Splash Harbor at Comfort Inn in Bellville is the perfect place to stay, especially if you have kids. The hotel was designed with families in mind and features a waterpark with a slide, two hot tubs, a splash pad, and a low-entry pool at the front, making it ideal for kids aged 3-6. However, adults will also have a blast! After a fun-filled time at the waterpark, make sure to save some energy to enjoy the hotel’s arcade. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff is extremely friendly. You can kick off your day of exploration in Mansfield with a delicious breakfast in the hotel lobby.