Pandemic-related closures and restrictions may be in place. Please check destinations' websites before making travel plans. 1) Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden The second-oldest zoo in the country often appears near the top in rankings. It's no wonder, with 75 acres to wander including Cat Canyon filled with cougars, snow leopards and tigers; jungle trails winding through orangutan habitats; and restored gardens around the domed Reptile House. The must-see Africa exhibit lets you get up close to lions, race a cheetah and feed giraffes. cincinnatizoo.org Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden Image zoom 2) Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal The first thing you'll notice about this three-for-one destination is its stunning Art Deco architecture; Union Terminal was one of the most notable passenger rail stations in the Midwest when it opened in the 1930s. These days, this former "temple to transportation" houses the Cincinnati History Museum, the Museum of Natural History and Science and the Duke Energy Children's Museum