On this latest road trip we are exploring the Buckeye state. While planning this trip I knew I wanted to do a loop through the state, hitting several main attractions along the way. We spent time in some of the major cities like Dayton, Cleveland, and Columbus, while also taking in some of the natural beauty along Lake Erie, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and Hocking Hills State Park. An Ohio road trip was the perfect way to explore this beautiful state. I hope to go back and do even more exploring in the future. Until then, I hope this Ohio road trip inspires you to go on a buckeye adventure.
Ohio Road Trip Day 1
Dayton, Ohio
Second Street Market
Our first stop was Second Street Market for a little lunch. This indoor farmers market has several vendors with everything from produce, baked goods, decor, and more. There are several, fresh, mouth-watering options to grab a hot meal. We walked away with a sampling of homemade maple syrup.
Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center
After filling up on tacos and nachos, we visited the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center where you can see how Orville and Wilbur were destined to become well known inventors, even at a young age. Entrepreneurs, engineers, and inventors are the best three words to describe these creative brothers that revolutionized air travel. Wander through the museum and take a look at their printing press before heading over to one of their many bicycle shops for a quick tour (tours start at the museum and are ranger led). We loved getting to see where it all started and learning more about the Wright brothers.
Carillon Historical Park
We had some time left in our day for one more activity, so we visited Carillon Historical Park where several historical buildings, artifacts, and transportation methods are on display. $14 per adult grants you access to some of Ohio’s best treasures. On this 65 acre park, you can explore at your own leisure some historical buildings, see an operating printing press, get an up close view of the Wright Flyer III, and several modes of transport, such as a stagecoach and Ford Model T. There are several buildings with lots to explore, so I suggest a half day here with some good walking shoes. They do have a cafe or you can bring your own picnic to make a day of it.
Old Scratch Pizza and Beer
After all that walking, we headed over to Old Scratch Pizza and Beer for some wood-fired pizza. Grab a seat at the bar or bring all your friends and family to sit at one of the large tables as you watch the three large 800 degree ovens churning out some delicious grub.
Five Rivers Fountain of Lights
For a little evening stroll, we headed over to the Five Rivers Fountain of Lights. Converging at the Mad River and Miami River, these five fountains represent the five regional rivers. Shooting water 200 feet high and 400 feet across, the fountains put on this display every hour for ten minutes starting at 7:05 am, and the last being 10:05 pm.
Know Before You Go:
It’s not a water show, just simply fountains that shoot water really high. They may not be on when temperatures are near freezing or if the wind speed is high. It might be more fun to go when it’s dark to see the lights.
Day 2 Dayton, Ohio
National Museum of the United States Air Force
One of the main attractions in Dayton, Ohio is the National Museum of the United States Air Force. Start your tour with the lighter than air display and move along the museum 4 hangars to the most recent aircraft of today. You can really see how air travel has changed over time and shaped the world as we know it.
For aircraft enthusiasts, this museum could take a full day or more to really satisfy you. We did it in about 5 hours with long stops for the more interesting pieces, and just a passing glance at several others. This museum is free so you can always come and go as you please or break up your visit in multiple trips. Each room is dedicated to a certain era such as WWI, Vietnam War, Cold War, and so on. I really enjoyed climbing aboard the presidential planes of JFK, Reagan, and a few others.
Know Before you go:
The entrance is on the right hand side of the building but there is an outdoor exhibit to the left side of the building. You can visit the outdoor exhibit first or last, but I suggest you drive and park near it because it’s a long walk to go through the parking lot and around the building to the entrance. Outside food and drink are not permitted. They do have a “cafe” that has pre-packaged deli sandwiches, snacks, and drinks. Again you can come and go as you please, just keep in mind they do not offer many options for meals. The food, other than bottled water, is not allowed in the exhibit areas.
Toledo
Ye Olde Dirty Bird
After a long morning at the museum, we drove up to Toledo. Unfortunately, it happened to be on a day and time where absolutely nothing was happening or open, so we took a stroll down by the river and then had a fabulous meal at Ye Olde Dirty Bird; a local restaurant owned by two women who obviously know what they’re doing. We ordered from the chef’s specialty menu and were not disappointed. The mac n cheese makes several appearances on the menu and for good reason; you must try it. Save room for dessert because if they’re serving the oreo bread pudding you’re going to want some. Even though we didn’t get to see much of Toledo on this trip we had a lovely time and a great meal.
Lighthouses
Port Clinton Lighthouse
The main purpose of day 3 was to get to Cleveland, but since it’s such a short drive and along the great Lake Erie, we made a few stops at lighthouses along the way. Our first lighthouse was Port Clinton Lighthouse, which is one of the earliest lighthouses constructed on Lake Erie. The original lighthouse was erected in 1833, and through many changes over the years now stands the restored 1896 version, which is the last remaining timber-frame lighthouse on Lake Erie. There is a lovely beach area, with picnic tables and restrooms available if you fancy a dip.
Marblehead Lighthouse
Our next stop was Marblehead Lighthouse. Built in 1821, it is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes. $3 will get you a ticket to enter the lighthouse and ascend the spiral staircase for a view from the top. The lightkeepers house, lifesaving house, and carriage house are also open to explore and free of charge. Marblehead Lighthouse was by far our favorite of the three lighthouses. It’s a great place to relax, have a picnic, and boat watch.
Huron Lighthouse and Fishing Pier
Huron Lighthouse and Fishing Pier was our last stop before Cleveland. This lighthouse was a bit of a walk from the parking lot and you don’t get to get up close, but we enjoyed seeing it and comparing all the different shapes of lighthouses along the coast. Unlike the other two lighthouses, this one was right beside several restaurants.
The Rolling Stone Creamery
You could fish for a while off the dock and then grab a bite at any of the local restaurants within a short walk of the parking lot. I highly recommend The Rolling Stone Creamery, a cute airstream converted into a food truck. Fun fact: the airstream used to be owned by the Rolling Stones and used when they were on tour – hence the name The Rolling Stone Creamery. Serving some of the best ice cream I have ever had (and I’ve had a lot), you will want to try every flavor. I had the caveman chocolate with caramel and peanut butter sauce on top. I could have eaten an entire barrel.
You can also go directly to the source of the ice cream, which is Toft Dairy in Sandusky, Ohio. These are both family owned businesses and I love nothing more than when local business owners work together. Check these places out; you don’t know what you’re missing!
Cleveland
Taza-Lebanese Grill
We then reached our destination of Cleveland and stopped in Taza-Lebanese Grill for dinner. The restaurant has a “Great Gatsby” feel and would be great for a date. The food was wonderful and well portioned. I would definitely go back for more hummus.
Day 4 Ohio Road Trip
The Main Squeeze
To fuel up for a morning of adventure, we hit The Main Squeeze. Tucked between buildings it was a little hard to spot, but I’m glad we did. We had hot and fresh bacon, egg and cheese bagel sandwiches, and a protein fix smoothie that I wanted to go back for multiple times. It was the perfect fuel I needed for my day at the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame.
Rock n Roll Hall of Fame
You can’t go to Cleveland and not visit the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame. From the beginning influences of blues, jazz, country, and several other genres, all were instrumental in the development of rock music. The museum takes you through some of those influences and early trend setters, to the pressures they faced from society, and the leaders of the rock movement. Move through the history of rock and its many facets as you wander through the many levels of the museum. It feels like being at a music festival the entire time you’re in the museum. Music is being pumped through speakers at every turn. Watch clips of famous musicians, see their instruments, stage costumes, and other memorabilia as you walk through the history of rock. You will see Jerry Lee Lewis’ piano, stage costumes of Sir Elton John, Prince, and Whitney Houston, among many other pieces that are precious to the genre. It takes about 2 hours to see everything at a steady pace. There are some theaters on the upper levels that I recommend you take the time to step into. If you’re a musician and wish to play a tune while you’re there, then have a jam session in “The Garage” where staff are at the ready to hook you up with an instrument of your choosing and even pick one up with you for a little jam session so you can rock out. Check the website before you plan your trip and you may be able to catch a live concert right in front of the museum.
Free Stamp
On your way to or from the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame Museum you may walk right by the Free Stamp, the world’s largest stamp. Meant to be a symbol of the Civil War ending and the emancipation of the enslaved, this stamp has a controversial history. Commissioned by Standard Oil Co. in the 1980s before they merged with British Petroleum Co. who were not in favor of the sculpture being placed at their front door. The Free Stamp sat in a warehouse for many years before being donated to the city and placed facing directly at the BP corporate offices. The Free Stamp sculpture in Willard Park, located at 601 Lakeside Avenue East, was created by artists Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen. These artists have several other giant sculptures, two of which are located in the Cleveland Museum of Art.
Day 5 Ohio Road Trip
Lucky’s Cafe
I love a good breakfast and I may have found my favorite breakfast spot of all time at Lucky’s Cafe. This cute little cafe is tucked into the nice neighborhood of Tremont. You can pop in for a quick pastry or sit down and enjoy one of the best meals you’ll ever have. I started with the “very berry arnold palmer”; which to not be a tea drinker at all I thought this was absolutely delicious. I would get it by the gallon at if I could. I also thoroughly enjoyed the fluffiest waffles topped with strawberry rhubarb compote, caramel drizzle and homemade whip. If your mouth isn’t watering yet it should be. I have not stopped thinking about this meal since I took the first bite. Go to Lucky’s Cafe for breakfast, brunch or lunch for a truly wonderful meal from a local business that supports other local businesses. There’s plenty of free street parking in front of the cafe so head on over and thank me later.
Westside Market
If you love food and farmers market’s then you will want to check out Westside Market. Open since 1912, this market has been an anchor of the surrounding community. With 100 vendors offering everything from fresh produce, meats, spices, dairy products, and baked goods, this is the place to be. Forget the grocery store, just head over to Westside Market and get everything you need. Don’t miss the international market where you can find goods from all over the world, I had to grab some stoop waffles for myself. Grab a bite to eat while you’re here from donuts to sandwiches, it doesn’t matter what time of day you visit they’re always serving up something delicious.
Know Before You Go:
There is a parking lot next to the building that is free for the first 90 minutes so no need to worry about parking. An insider tip is to grab a snack and head up to the balcony for a great view while you munch on some goodies.
Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream
If you didn’t fill up at the market, then walk a few blocks down the road to Mitchell’s Homemade Ice Cream. I was fortunate enough to have sampled many different flavors on this Ohio road trip and each one was absolutely delectable. I had the chocolate chunk, caramel fudge brownie, and black raspberry chocolate chunk; yes there is a theme there. The ice cream is silky smooth with that creamy texture all good ice cream has. There were so many flavors to choose from but you really can’t go wrong so have several different flavors like I did.
Day 6 & 7 Ohio Road Trip
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
After all the cities we’ve visited we wanted to enjoy some of the natural beauty Ohio has to offer by hiking in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. A short drive from Cleveland you’ll find some of the most scenic landscape in Ohio. With so much to see we choose to do a few trails and other activities with the intent on coming back for another visit at a later time. After our visit I can say with certainty that we will definitely be back. Our first stop was The Inn at Brandywine Falls where we stayed during our time here. I don’t normally talk about accommodations but this one was way too cute and unique to not tell you about.
The Inn at Brandywine Falls
This historic Inn was built in 1848 right next to the beautiful Brandywine Falls where a mill was located. The mill was considered a centerpiece of the community back in the mid 1800s and you can see remnants of that mill today. You really do take a step back in time here. It makes you slow down and relax in a way no ordinary hotel ever could. The Innkeeper and host during our stay cooked a lovely three course breakfast for us each morning. I can’t tell you how nice it is to not have to decide what to have or where to go first thing in the morning. The Inn also includes a small library with several different genres that you can use at your leisure, along with puzzles and games. The whole place just felt like home and they make you feel like family. When stepping outside you can hear the roar of the falls just a short walk away. We took full advantage of this aspect and visited Brandywine Falls both mornings. If there’s a slight rain anywhere in the area I suggest you do the same because our first visit was extremely different from our second after a little rain the night before. If you’re visiting Cuyahoga Valley National Park then the Inn at Brandywine Falls is where you should be staying.
Trails in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Brandywine Falls
We did traverse a few trails while in Cuyahoga Valley National Park including Brandywine Falls. There’s a short 1.5 mile loop (Brandywine Gorge Loop) that takes you right by the falls or you can simply park and walk like we did right down to it. There are several stairs involved but the longer trail is very moderate and a lovely walk down by the creek. Brandywine Falls is the largest waterfall in the park at 60 feet tall, making it very popular.
Ledges Trail
Ledges trail is the perfect moderate hike with enchanting landscape. There are small inclines and declines with a few stairs scattered throughout. This is one of those trails that takes you through the forest and your imagination goes wild. Along the way you’ll encounter large trees, moss covered rocks, a bat cave, and an overlook. We visited during the summer when the trees were in their full green making it difficult to see much over them at the overlook so maybe do this one in the other seasons when the trees are barren. Ledges trail is a 1.6 mile hike that you can do in a loop or use the cutoff to make it a bit shorter.
Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail
The Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail traverses 20 miles of the park and is very popular for runners, cyclists, and those just wanting a nice stroll. There are multiple access points but I would recommend going by the Beaver Marsh to see the diverse wildlife who call it home. Beaver, otter, turtles, and numerous birds can be viewed in their natural habitat at this one location. The boardwalk is an easy paved walkway so anyone can come out and enjoy the view. There are a few benches along the boardwalk. I recommend bringing your binoculars or a camera with an excellent zoom to get up close views since the marsh is so vast.
Activities Other Than Hiking in Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Everett Covered Bridge
This is the only remaining covered bridge in Summit County. It played an important role in transportation at the time. It was originally built in the 1800s and reconstructed after a flood in 1975. It’s best viewed when there are no leaves on the trees. There are three trails that can be accessed from the Everett Covered Bridge including Riding Run (4 miles) and Perkins Trail (2.75 miles) that are used by pedestrians and horses. The Furnace Trail is a 2.1 mile walking trail that is popular during the spring when wildflowers are in bloom.
Szalay’s Farm and Market
Szalay’s Farm and Market is the perfect stop to grab some fresh local produce and some lunch. Everything looked so good that even though I wasn’t hungry I wanted a little bit of all of it. If you’re staying in the area and need any produce I would come here to get it. They have tons of options from watermelons, grapes, apples, fresh baked breads, spices, preserves and more.
Hale Farm and Village
Hale Farm and Village is a living history museum that brings the 1800s to life. All the buildings on the property were originally built in the 1800s, some of them are from the area and others were saved and moved to the area for preservation. Interpreters are scattered throughout the park dressed in period clothes giving demonstrations and information about life at that time. We had the opportunity to see wool being spun, a glassblower making a vase, and a seamstress making garments. The homes are all open for viewing and furnished with period pieces making it a fun experience for all. Admission was $15 at the time of our visit and well worth it considering how much you get to see. Pop into the old store to grab a drink and a snack as you walk around this lovely little community.
Things To Do Next Time
Blossom Music Center is an outdoor music venue that is very popular and hosts some amazing performances. We didn’t get the chance to enjoy an event here on this trip but it’s on our list for next time. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad allows you to take a two hour train ride through some scenic areas. There are different experiences based on the time of year you are there so look for those on their website. I have been told that the best time to go on this adventure is during the fall or winter months since nature really shows off during that time of year.
Day 8 & 9 Ohio Road Trip
Gasoline Alley
It wouldn’t be an Ohio road trip without a stop in Hocking Hills State Park. On our way to the park we made a pit stop at Gasoline Alley in Akron for some lunch. Just a short drive from the Hale Farm and Village, this little local restaurant was a gem. Decorated in all things motors and gasoline, along with other random pictures and whatnot, we couldn’t stop looking around to see what we could find on the walls and ceilings. The menu has more sandwiches than I even knew existed. I had the catfish sandwich with onion rings and my husband had a burger with their homemade fries and man oh man was it all so good. If we had room for dessert I would have loved to try one of their cakes that they taunt you with in a case by the door. I love a good funky spot for a bite to eat.
Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park is a very popular destination and probably one of the most well known state parks in Ohio. With a newly renovated lodge (Hocking Hills Lodge and Conference Center) conveniently located at a few trailheads this makes a great place to stay or just visit while you’re in the area. The lodge was completely booked when we were visiting so we didn’t stay here but did take advantage of the restaurant, cafe, and beautiful views. I would recommend booking well in advance.
Hocking Hills State Park and Visitors Center is where some of the most popular trails are located. I would recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid large crowds. This is the place to start your trail adventures if you like having a map as I do and getting the inside scoop on the difficulty level of the trails. They also have souvenirs, drinks, and restrooms here.
Hocking Hills State Park Hiking Trails
Ash Cave Gorge/Ash Cave Rim
Ash Cave Gorge is paved up to the cave and waterfall but can be muddy with a few stairs beyond that to the Ash Cave Rim portion. This trail goes in a loop through some beautiful forest, and right up to a large cave-like rock overhang that includes a lovely tall stream of a waterfall.
Cedar Falls Trail
Cedar Falls Trail has, in my opinion, the best waterfall. There are several stairs to going to the falls and back out but it’s well worth the effort. This short loop trail is very popular and has limited parking so go early in the morning or in the evening to ensure you don’t circle the parking lot 3 times like we did.
Old Man’s Cave, Grandma Gatewood Trail, and Buckeye Trail
All of these trails can all be accessed from the visitor’s center. You can easily transition from one to the other making these easy to do all at once. Starting on Grandma Gatewood Trail you will immediately cross over a bridge where Upper Falls is flowing beneath. Descending and ascending many stairs along the way you will encounter the Devil’s Bathtub, Old Man’s Cave, and then Lower Falls where you can continue on Buckeye Trail or make a loop back to the visitors center on the Gorge Exit Trail.
There are a few spots along this long loop where you can cut your hike short if you find it to be too difficult to do all at once. Other trails can be accessed from this point as well but this is the loop I would recommend for lots of waterfalls, and picturesque nature. Buckeye Trail is a 1,400 mile trail extending from Lake Erie to the Ohio River so know what you’re getting into if you choose to take this trail.
Know before you go:
We had trouble with getting cell service during this portion of our Ohio road trip, which is practically vital for getting around these days. We use Verizon so you may want to be sure you know where you’re going and have the directions before you leave a spot that has service. We found that the lodge and visitors centers were our main hubs for getting service in order to navigate to our next destination. Finding restaurants close by was also a bit of a challenge, so we ended up having a few meals at Hocking Hills Lodge and Convention Center that were really great.
Day 10 & 11 Ohio Road Trip
Columbus
German Village
To round out our Ohio road trip we had to stop in the capital city of Columbus. We immediately went to the German Village area where we strolled down the cobble stoned streets. Grab a map of this area and see if you can find each of the historical markers in the neighborhood, it makes for a fun little game. We poked our heads in the Red Stable Store where you can find authentic German cuckoo clocks, themed planters, nut crackers, and lots of other fun trinkets.
Schmit’s Fudge Haus across the street has lots of candy to choose from. Mainly chocolates, which you know I had to try. They didn’t last very long. You may even catch them making a fresh batch of fudge while you’re there. But the main attraction of the area is Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant is a staple of the community. Starting in 1886 the Schmidt family ran a meat packing plant just down the road and now that family operates a restaurant out of one of the livery stables. Get authentic German cuisine and be sure to look around while you dine because there are several pieces of history tucked away. They are known for their cream puffs but they are very large, so we went for the apple strudel instead and loved it.
Book Loft of German Village
Another great stop is the Book Loft of German Village, which is one of the largest independent bookstores in the nation. With 32 rooms of books you’re bound to find something you want to read. This store is a book lover’s dream and I found the layout to be a fun labyrinth of “where the heck am I?” When there’s a map of the store’s layout outside you should take that as fair warning and use it. I loved the experience of just being in the store with all the books and small rooms, it became magical and fun.
Columbus Zoo
Of course you know if there’s a zoo in the area I’m definitely going to check it out. Columbus Zoo is one of the most well known zoos in the country. I loved the layout of the zoo and the timing of their encounters. If you walk in and visit Africa section first you’ll find that you can easily follow along with the encounters schedule for the day and get to see many animals doing training or get a chance to talk with their keepers about their care.
End of the Road
Over the course of 11 days we were able to cover a lot of ground. A road trip through Ohio was easy to manage since we live in the neighboring state of Kentucky, but I would encourage anyone to fly or drive in and see some of these great places I mentioned. Everywhere we went we met wonderfully nice people. We had great food, easy driving experiences, and were able to enjoy many facets of this unique Ohio road trip.
If you love a nice long road trip you should also take a look at my East Texas Road Trip three part series. This road trip takes you through some of the major cities along east Texas including Fort Worth, Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Houston. We end that trip with a stop in Galveston for little r&r on the beach. Subscribe for more road trip adventure inspiration.
