The Friday before Memorial Day is declared National Road Trip Day and serves as the official kickoff of the summer road trip season. If you are hoping to get out and explore this summer, but still stay relatively close to home, these destinations are all within five (5) hours from Northwest Ohio!
Cedar Point | Sandusky, Ohio
If you are a Midwesterner, chances are you’ve heard of Cedar Point. This “Roller Coaster Capital of The World” sits on the shores of Lake Erie. Not only are there some of the world’s tallest + fastest coasters, but a water park, special amusement ride area for smaller children and a top-notch resort right on the grounds.
Cleveland | Ohio
There is no shortage of fun things to do in this beautiful city on Lake Erie. Catch an Indians game, or take the family to the Cleveland Children’s Museum, aquarium or zoo. Relax on the river at The Flats with the city’s newest restaurants. Get up close and personal with your favorite musical artist at The Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame. You will need more than one day to explore everything Cleveland has to offer.
Mohican State Park | Loudonville, Ohio
This state park boasts thousands of wooden acres, along with Clear Fork Gorge, Lyon’s Falls and Mohican State Scenic River. Get back to nature with primitive camping sites or rent a cabin for the entire family.
Frankenmuth | Michigan
Known as “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth offers activities for all ages. Check out one of the many festivals, or taste the Christmas Town Ale at Frankenmuth Brewery. Wander through Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, where it’s Christmas all year! And don’t forget to enjoy a delicious chicken dinner while you’re in town.
Columbus | Ohio
If you’re traveling to Ohio’s capital city, you will be met with plenty of unique + fun activities. Catch a Columbus Clippers game (the minor league team for the Cleveland Indians.) Peruse The North Market, Easton Town Centre or Polaris Mall. Get lost at Franklin Park Conservatory, Dawes Arboretum or Innisbrook Metro Gardens. And do not forget to visit German Village; this quaint neighborhood was settled by German immigrants in the early 19th century. Walk the brick streets to see beautiful historical homes, and get a bite to eat at one of the neighborhood’s many restaurants.
Gervasi Vineyard | Canton, Ohio
This dreamy vineyard will make you think you stepped out of Ohio and into Italy. Stay in a Tuscan-inspired villa, dine at one of the vineyard’s several restaurants, relax with an award-winning wine, a cocktail or cigar. You won’t regret getting away to this hidden gem in Canton!
Hocking Hills | Ohio
One of Ohio’s most popular destinations! Get back to nature by camping or staying in one of the many luxury cabins located throughout the amazing topography. Hike the trails, check out caves and relax near one of the many waterfalls in the area. Hocking Hills is the perfect place to unwind + unplug for a few days.
Pittsburgh | Pennsylvania
You can get to this beautiful city in under four hours, and there is something for everyone! Enjoy the city views from Mount Washington. Enjoy America’s pastime by catching a Pirates game, or immerse yourself at the Andy Warhol Museum.
Chicago | Illinois
Perfect for a weekend trip or a longer getaway – Chicago is an outstanding Midwest vacation destination. Tour one of the many museums, learn about the city’s infrastructure on a river cruise, or relax on the water at one of the Lake Michigan beaches. The Lincoln Park Zoo is perfect family fun, along with being located in one of Chicago’s best neighborhoods. And don’t forget Navy Pier for a true feeling of summer.
Traverse City | Michigan
If getting outdoors is what you are looking for, then make the trip to Traverse City! You can bike or paddle your way along the coastline, hike through the forest or relax during a fishing trip on the lake. And if you’re looking for something even more relaxing, stroll the streets and peruse the many local shops, or enjoy a drink at the many vineyards + breweries that Traverse City has become famous for.
Now that you have your summer road trip bucket list, start planning to make memories now!