Aerial of view of Ariel Foundation Park in Mount Vernon (photo by Terry Thurston)
Travel

10 Ohio Road Trips to Take This Year

From our state’s only national park to museums dedicated to legendary women to incredible roadside art, these treks offer plenty of ways to make new memories. 

Ohio offers a wealth of opportunities for road trips filled with historic landmarks, cultural gems and plenty of small-town charm. Whether your are drawn to our state’s rich aviation history or interesting roadside art, historic eateries or outdoor adventures, our curated guide can help you plan your perfect drive this spring and summer. Explore picturesque natural wonders like Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, visit astronaut Neil Armstrong’s hometown of Wapakoneta (where the local legend’s moon walk is celebrated to this day) and visit charming villages stepped in history. So, buckle up and let’s hit the road to explore Ohio — one mile at a time.

Exterior of Columbus Museum of Art (photo by Brad Feinknopf)

Explore the Arts at These 5 Columbus Spots: From an incredible art museum to a historic downtown music venue to a famous author’s family home turned literary hub, creativity abounds in our capital city. 

Golden Lamb in Lebanon opened in 1803 (courtesy of Golden Lamb)

5 Ohio Food Spots that Opened Before 1900: From the state’s oldest continuously operating business to an inn visited by Abraham Lincoln, these establishments all had their start before the turn of the 20th century. 

Armstrong Air & Space Museum in Wapakoneta, Neil Armstrong’s hometown (photo courtesy of Ohio History Connection)

5 Ohio Museums that Celebrate Aviation and Space Exploration: Learn about our state’s deep ties to aeronautics at these museums where exhibits stretch from the Wright brothers to the Space Race.

Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga Falls National Park (photo by Erik Drost)

5 Must-Visit Spots in Ohio’s Only National Park: Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers more than 33,000 acres of adventure just a short drive from both Cleveland and Akron, and these stops should be part of your itinerary.

Aerial view of McKinley National Memorial in Canton (photo by Aerial Agents)

Visit the Graves of 5 U.S. Presidents: Seven presidents were born in Ohio, and another called the state home before being elected. Connect with that history by visiting the final resting places of the five who are buried here. 

A demonstration at Great Lakes Science Center in Cleveland (photo courtesy of Great Lakes Science Center)

Engage Your Kids’ Sense of Wonder at 5 Ohio Science Centers: Curiosity fuels learning at these kid-focused destinations across our state that are filled with hands-on experiences, insightful exhibits and big fun.

An aerial view of the town of Granville in Licking County, Ohio (photo by Henry Leiter)

Spend a Day in These 5 Ohio Small Towns: Our state is packed with picturesque villages, including these communities brimming with history, culture and creativity.

Hartman Rock Garden in Springfield (photo by Rod Hatfield)

5 Incredible Roadside Art Finds in Ohio: From a giant Bigfoot sculpture in Mercer County to a backyard folk-art masterpiece in Springfield, these roadside art finds embody creativity in unusual and interesting ways.

Exhibit at the First Ladies National Historic Site in Canton (photo by Laura Watilo Blake)

Celebrate Legendary Women at These 5 Ohio Museums: Visit these sites that honor individuals who left an indelible mark on history, from a pioneering suffragist to a famous sharpshooter to a literary icon. 

Loganberry Books in Cleveland (photo courtesy of Loganberry Books)

Visit 5 Favorite Ohio Bookstores: Bibliophiles love these creatively organized and inviting spots where browsing the shelves makes for a memorable and fun experience.

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Ohio Magazine is available in a beautifully designed print issue that is published 7 times a year, along with Spring-Summer and Fall-Winter editions of LongWeekends magazine. Subscribe to Ohio Magazine and stay connected to beauty, adventure and fun across our state.

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