Road Trips in Ohio | Day Trips in Ohio
What Ohio is Known For: Rich history, diverse landscapes, and cultural heritage.
Ohio’s Nickname: The Buckeye State
Ohio’s Official Hobby: Football
Ohio’s Most Popular State Park: Hocking Hills State Park | Logan, Ohio
The Buckeye state offers a variety of opportunities for Ohio road trips, from its charming small towns and historic sites to its stunning natural landscapes and scenic byways. Whether you’re exploring its cultural treasures, historical landmarks, or natural beauty, Ohio promises a delightful and memorable journey.
Start your journey in Marietta, a picturesque town along the Ohio River. Known for its rich history and beautiful riverfront, Marietta offers a range of attractions. Visit the Campus Martius Museum to learn about the early settlers, explore the historic Ohio River Museum, and take a stroll through the charming downtown area. Stay at the historic Lafayette Hotel for a unique experience.
Drive to the quaint town of Granville, home to Denison University and a wealth of historic charm. Explore the Granville Inn, a beautiful historic hotel, and visit the Robbins Hunter Museum for a glimpse into the town’s history. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the picturesque downtown area, filled with shops and restaurants.
Head to the scenic village of Yellow Springs, known for its vibrant arts community and natural beauty. Visit the Glen Helen Nature Preserve for hiking and birdwatching, explore the eclectic shops and galleries in the downtown area, and enjoy a meal at The Winds Cafe, a beloved local eatery. Don’t miss the nearby John Bryan State Park for more outdoor adventures.
Don’t miss the historic town of Lebanon, known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and charming atmosphere. Visit the Golden Lamb, Ohio’s oldest continuously operating hotel, and explore the Warren County Historical Society Museum. Take a scenic ride on the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, a historic train offering themed excursions throughout the year.
Don’t forget about Columbus, the state’s capital known for its vibrant arts scene and diverse attractions. Visit the Columbus Museum of Art, explore the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and stroll through the historic German Village. Don’t miss the Ohio Statehouse for a glimpse into the state’s political history.
The picturesque town of Cleveland, located on the shores of Lake Erie was for a long time the center of the American steel industry. Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, explore the Cleveland Museum of Art, and enjoy a day at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Don’t miss the West Side Market for a taste of local cuisine.
Finally, the historic town of Cincinnati, known for its rich history and beautiful riverfront. Visit the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, explore the Krohn Conservatory, and stroll along the Cincinnati Riverwalk. Stay at the historic Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza for a unique experience.
Ohio’s scenic byways, such as the Amish Country Byway, provide breathtaking views and lead to quaint small towns like Berlin and Millersburg. In Berlin, visit the Berlin Village Antique Mall and explore the unique shops and Amish markets. In Millersburg, explore the Victorian House Museum and enjoy the beautiful countryside.
Ohio Road Trip Checklist
Before you go on any road trip or day trip its advised you prepare and get the items you need including a phone charging cable, fix-a-flat tire repair, a cozzy neck pillow and more. This all inclusive guide is a day trip checklist to make sure if your road trip goes a little too long you are still covered. Make sure to check it out!
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Top Road Trip Routes in Ohio
1. The Historic River Route
Route: OH-7
Cities: Marietta, Gallipolis, Portsmouth
Attractions: Campus Martius Museum, Our House Museum, Southern Ohio Museum
2. The Scenic Byway Drive
Route: US-62, OH-39
Cities: Berlin, Millersburg, Walnut Creek
Attractions: Berlin Village Antique Mall, Victorian House Museum, Yoder’s Amish Home
3. The University Town Trail
Route: OH-37, OH-16
Cities: Granville, Newark, Gambier
Attractions: Granville Inn, The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology, Kenyon College
4. The Artistic Retreat
Route: US-68
Cities: Yellow Springs, Springfield, Urbana
Attractions: Glen Helen Nature Preserve, Springfield Museum of Art, Johnny Appleseed Museum
Best Times to Visit
Ohio experiences four distinct seasons, offering unique opportunities throughout the year.
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for enjoying mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities. The Lilac Festival in Granville is a highlight.
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for exploring state parks, attending festivals, and enjoying lake activities. The Yellow Springs Street Fair is a summer must-visit.
- Fall (September to November): Offers cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, especially in Hocking Hills and along scenic byways. The Amish Country’s fall colors are particularly beautiful.
- Winter (December to February): Best for indoor cultural activities and winter sports. Visit the Christmas Ranch in Morrow for holiday lights and activities.
Local Cuisine
Ohio’s culinary scene features a blend of Midwestern comfort food, farm-to-table dishes, and delicious regional specialties. Here are some must-try foods and restaurant recommendations in smaller towns:
- Buckeyes: Try these chocolate-covered peanut butter candies at Marsha’s Homemade Buckeyes in Perrysburg.
- Cincinnati Chili: Enjoy this unique chili at Skyline Chili in Lebanon.
- Pierogi: Visit Pierogi Mountain in Columbus for delicious pierogi.
- Goetta: Try this German-inspired breakfast sausage at Eckerlin Meats in Cincinnati.
- Pawpaw Fruit: Savor this native fruit in various dishes at the Ohio Pawpaw Festival in Albany.
Most Unique Stays in Ohio
- The Inn at Honey Run
- Location: Millersburg, Ohio
- What makes it unique?: A boutique resort offering cozy accommodations, an art installation in nature, and a peaceful woodland setting.
- The Golden Lamb
- Location: Lebanon, Ohio
- What makes it unique?: A historic inn offering elegant rooms, fine dining, and a rich history dating back to 1803.
- The Buxton Inn
- Location: Granville, Ohio
- What makes it unique?: A historic inn offering charming rooms, fine dining, and a prime location near Denison University.
- Glenlaurel Inn & Cottages
- Location: Rockbridge, Ohio
- What makes it unique?: A luxurious Scottish-themed retreat offering private cottages, gourmet dining, and beautiful surroundings.
- Murphin Ridge Inn
- Location: West Union, Ohio
- What makes it unique?: A peaceful country inn offering cozy cabins, homemade meals, and stunning views of the Appalachian foothills.
Travel Tips
- Explore Local Festivals: Ohio hosts numerous festivals, such as the Circleville Pumpkin Show and the Ohio Swiss Festival in Sugarcreek. Plan your trip around these events for a unique experience.
- Scenic Byways: Take advantage of Ohio’s scenic byways for a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes and charming small towns. The Amish Country Byway offers a glimpse into Amish life.
- Historic Sites: Many of Ohio’s historic sites offer guided tours. Visit the Historic Roscoe Village in Coshocton and the Armstrong Air & Space Museum in Wapakoneta.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in the Hocking Hills, kayaking on the Little Miami River, and exploring the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.