Summer stay-cation: Ideas for one-tank trips

Back in the day (you know, like, three years ago) it wasn't so difficult to take a family vacation.

But, well, it's 2008, and you know the drill. With oil at record-high prices and gas hovering near the $4 mark, taking the spouse and kids for a little R-and-R suddenly got a lot more expensive.

Before you let those dreams of poolside lounging and sunny fun evaporate, however, consider this: Ohio has plenty to offer your wandering soul, including beaches, museums, amusement parks and the arts. Instead of high-tailing to another state, consider instead a "one-tank trip" to a local or regional getaway, which will save you money, travel time and peace of mind. We've compiled a list of attractions around the Buckeye State: take our suggestions or use them as a springboard to making your own trip list.

Whatever it takes to get you out of the house, right?

Location: Athens County

Hard to believe for us northwestern Ohio dwellers, but our home state actually has hills, lots of them, in fact. In Athens County, home to Ohio University as well as small towns like Nelsonville, the hills aren't the only draw: the area is home to historical attractions and the arts alike.

Highlights:

• The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway (Nelsonville). Take a train tour through hills and valleys. Board at the station in Nelsonville and hop a ride in a restored historic passenger car from 1918, the 1920s or the 1950s. The trains have two different routes: a 14-mile round trip to Haydenville and a 22-mile round trip to Logan.

• Final Fridays on the Square (Nelsonville). Galleries and shops stay open late on the final Friday of every month (except December) to host special arts demonstrations, exhibits, plays and more. Most of the events run from 6 to 10 p.m.

• Robbins Crossing. What was life like in 1850? Visit Robbins Crossing to find out. The restored village has stores, shops and homes complete with reenactors who interact with visitors. Even better, the village is a stop on the Scenic Railway.

Location: Lake Erie

We know you know all about the awesomeness of Cedar Point and Cleveland (we hear Drew Carey loves it up there), but Lake Erie has plenty to offer beyond the big city and the big coasters.

Highlights:

• African Safari Wildlife Park (Port Clinton). Giraffes? In Ohio? Check out this famous African native and about 50 other of that continent's species in this 100-acre drive-through safari attraction.

• Ghostly Manor Thrill Center (Sandusky). Who cares if it's not Halloween? This spooky complex features a haunted house that's open all year and a 3-D theater with scary movies, as well as a not-so-scary skating rink and a Halloween store. Because you just know you need a pint of fake blood and a Freddy Krueger mask in the middle of July.

• Vineyards and wineries (various locations). Instead of flying out to Napa Valley, pay a visit to northern Ohio's own vineyards and wineries, which are scattered along the banks of Lake Erie. A couple for you to consider: Hermes Winery in Sandusky, Heineman Winery in Put-In-Bay, Mon Ami Historic Winery in Port Clinton and Old Firehouse Winery in Geneva-on-the-Lake. Best leave this one to the adults so the kiddies don't squirm with boredom.

Location: Cincinnati

Down on the Ohio River, Cincinnati has a few things going for it: namely, a couple professional sports teams, proximity to two other states and an "everybody's hometown" kind of appeal.

Highlights:

• The American Sign Museum. From neon to old school electric bulbs to iconic branding, the American Sign Museum takes visitors on a nostalgic trip through fast food signs, movie marquees and more. Perfect for the retro lovers and history fans.

• The Newport Aquarium (Newport, Ky.). Cross the river to get a gander at this gem. Sharks, jellyfish, and other underwater creatures populate the 70 exhibits and 14 galleries in the aquarium. Move through one of the five underwater tunnels for an all-encompassing view.

• Kings Island (near Mason). This might be an obvious choice, but there's really a lot for families to do here, from roller coasters to live entertainment to the attached water park Boomerang Bay.

Location: Columbus

It's the state capital, sure, but did you know how artsy and diverse this central Ohio city is? There's plenty to see and do for kids and adults.

Highlights:

• Franklin Park Conservatory. Located in downtown Columbus, the conservatory was built in 1895 and houses 400 species of plants, annual exhibits like "Blooms and Butterflies" and permanent art collections and exhibitions.

• The Short North. Columbus is comprised of neighborhoods and districts, with the Short North as its most artsy and most creative. Shop the unique boutiques and art galleries, then grab a bite to eat at the North Market, a warehouse full of ethnic and original food stuffs (not to mention Jeni's ice cream).

• COSI. Kids and adults can dig on a museum that makes science fun. From space and ocean exhibits to kid-friendly laboratories to historical displays, kids can have fun and learn at the same time (not always an easy feat).

Location: Indian Lake

If you're really strapped for cash or would prefer to stay close to home this summer, Indian Lake has beaches, parks and tasty food. These characteristics can add up to a fun day trip or a simple weekend getaway.

Highlights:

• Old Field Beach and Fox Island Beach. Lounge in the sun or take a swim in the lake. These beaches also include designated swimming and boating areas.

• Indian Lake State Campgrounds. Camp out for the weekend or rent a cabin for the family. Indian Lake also features the Cherokee Trail, a 3-mile hiking trail around the area.

• Fishing and boating. Put all that water to use with one of the lake's favorite pastimes. Rent a boat at the State Park, or pay Lucky's Guide Service in West Liberty to take you on a full-service charter fishing trip.

Sources: The Columbus Visitor Center at www.experiencecolumbus.com, Lake Erie Shores & Islands Welcome Centers at www.shoresandislands.com, the Cincinnati USA Convention & Visitors Bureau at www.cincyusa.com, The Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau at www.athensohio.com and the Indian Lake Area Chamber of Commerce at www.indianlakechamber.org.