It’s official – Ohio is part of the Nurse Licensure Compact!
This is great news for two reasons. First, opportunity just got a whole lot bigger for nurses (RNs and LPNs) in Ohio - they can take on travel assignments and practice in the 42 participating compact states at no additional cost.
And second, nurses outside of Ohio can snag high-paying travel assignments in the beautiful Buckeye State.
Top-Ranked Hospitals
Ohio is home to some of the best hospitals in the country. Nurses who specialize in cardiology could score their dream contract in northeast Ohio, which is home to the top-ranked hospital in the nation for cardiology and heart surgery.
In the middle of the state, nurses will find a renowned university hospital system, which is nationally ranked in nine healthcare specialties. And just down the street, pediatric nurses will find a teaching hospital, also nationally ranked, with positions across specialties like neonatology, pediatric cancer, cardiology, gastroenterology, orthopedics, urology and more.
From the northern part of the state to the Cincinnati/West Virginia line, and everywhere in between, there are hundreds of hospitals, clinics, and ambulatory sites to choose from. Additionally, there are several dozen long-term acute care hospitals (LTACH) which focus on treating medically complex patients who take about 28 days to recover.
Senior Living/Long-Term Care
If you’re a nurse who specializes in long-term care (LTC), there is plenty of opportunity for you in Ohio. From skilled nursing and assisted living facilities to memory care and group homes, Ohio has thousands of buildings throughout the state where you can make a difference in the lives on residents.
Things to Do in Ohio - Our Top 5 Picks
Whether you’re in a metropolitan city like Cleveland or a more rural area, Ohio has more than a handful of must-see spots all year round. And if you’re working 12-hour shifts, chances are that you’ll have three days off to explore your new surroundings.
Keep scrolling to see the state's most sought after spots!
#1. Hocking Hills
Ohio’s southeastern hidden gem – Hocking Hills State Park, just 57 miles from Columbus. Here you’ll find tons of outdoor activities – canoeing, ziplining, camping, and even guided nature hikes. With nine State Parks and Nature Preserves, three State Forests and a big chunk of the Buckeye Trail, visitors have plenty of places to hike and explore. Don’t forget to visit Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave and Cedar Falls.If you’ve got a couple days, you might consider renting a beautiful cabin, or even a treehouse! With more than 800 types of rentals to choose from, you can find your perfect fit.
Hike some trails, unwind in nature, and relax by the fire.
- Adventurers – if you’re a thrill seeker, no worries. Hocking Hills offers ATV and UTV rentals and guided tours.
- Sit and Sip - is kicking back more your style? Hocking Hills is home to several breweries and wineries. They even have a few moonshine distilleries on-site. Cheers!
Looking for a Travel Nursing Contract in Another Compact State?
#2. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Located on Cleveland’s waterfront, visitors will find a unique building with a beautiful backdrop. We recommend going around sunset! Immerse yourself in tons of rock memorabilia amongst the museum’s seven floors.
Make sure to check for outdoor concerts and events before you go, especially if you’re visiting in spring and summer.
Don’t forget to stop by the West Side Market afterward to grab a bite from more than 100 vendors. The West Side Market is just two miles away from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Visit WSM's Instagram for an aesthetically pleasing inside look.
#3. Ohio Caverns
Did you know? The temperature below ground is 54 degrees, so you can visit any time of year! Ohio Caverns has more than two miles of underground passageways. Visitors will get the chance to enjoy unique geological formations that look like something out of a movie. It is the largest of all cave systems in the state!
If you’d prefer a knowledgeable guide and a bit more history, take advantage of a daily tour. Tours run from 10am-4pm daily. Ohio Caverns are located on East State Route 45 in Champaign County.
#4. Short North Arts District
From shopping and art galleries to bustling bars and nightlife, the Short North in downtown Columbus offers something for everyone. When walking or driving down High Street, don’t forget to look up – you’ll notice 17 lighted arches overhead. Visitors will stay busy along this strip that offers more than 100 restaurants and boutiques. We recommend finding a parking garage and exploring the area on foot. Or, grab a few friends and rent a pedal wagon! If the weather is right, don’t forget to reserve a spot at a rooftop bar.
#5. Fountain Square in Cincinnati
Located near Fifth and Vine Street, Fountain Square can be easily identified by its centerpiece – the Genius of Water fountain. The square has recently become a Cincy hotspot, nestled in the center of a thriving entertainment district.
There are outdoor events going on year-round. Visitors can enjoy an ice rink and warming tent in the winter (through February 20), along with dozens of buzzing bars and restaurants.
Lions and Tigers and Buckeyes, Oh My!
A Few Good Zoos- Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Gardens
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium
- Toledo Zoo
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Are You A Sports Fan?Snag Some Ohio Sports Gear and Catch a Game
- Cleveland Browns - National Football League (NFL)
- Cincinnati Bengals - National Football League (NFL)
- Cleveland Guardians - Major League Baseball (MLB)
- Cincinnati Reds - Major League Baseball (MLB)
- Cleveland Cavaliers - National Basketball Association (NBA)
- Columbus Crew - Major League Soccer (MLS)
- FC Cincinnati - Major League Soccer (MLS)
- Columbus Blue Jackets - National Hockey League (NHL)
LeaderStat has hundreds of travel positions (and permanent roles) throughout Ohio. Ready to take a look?