Welcome to Ohio!
Discover all the best summer road trips in Ohio!
Whether it’s a quick getaway or a week-long bucket-list Ohio road trip, our guide helps you stay, play, and enjoy.
This Ohio road trip guide is perfect if you’re a couple planning a romantic escape or a family with kids seeking fun activities.
Let’s get started!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- 🌄 Ohio offers incredibly diverse road trip experiences, from lakefront drives along Lake Erie to forested routes in the Appalachian foothills.
- 🏙️ Each route is packed with unique stops, including cultural landmarks like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Amish heritage centers, as well as natural wonders such as Old Man’s Cave, Brandywine Falls, and Serpent Mound.
- 🍷 Small-town gems and local experiences elevate the journey, with highlights like ice wine tasting in Geneva-on-the-Lake, antique shopping in Berlin, or kayaking at Burr Oak State Park.
Ohio road trips: An overview
| Name | Distance (miles) | Stops | Days |
| Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail | 293 | Toledo, Port Clinton, Put-in-Bay, Geneva-on-the-Lake, Conneaut | 3 |
| Hocking Hills Scenic Byway | 26 | Logan, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, Old Man’s Cave, Conkle’s Hollow, Rock House, Cantwell Cliffs | 2 |
| Ohio Amish Country Byway | 160 | Millersburg, Berlin, Walnut Creek, Sugarcreek, Charm | 3 |
| The Grand Ohio Loop Road Trip | 950 | Cincinnati, Dayton, Toledo, Cleveland, Akron, Holmes County, Hocking Hills, Athens, Cincinnati | 7 |
| Appalachian Ohio Discovery Route | 380 | Marietta, Athens, Jackson, Portsmouth, Peebles, Logan, Marietta | 6 |
| Western Ohio Heritage and Nature Trail | 420 | Cincinnati, Dayton, Wapakoneta, Grand Lake St. Marys, Lima, Bowling Green, Toledo | 5 |
Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail
Summary:
- Route: Toledo to Conneaut
- Distance: 293 miles (472 kilometers)
- Ideal for: Scenic lake views, historic lighthouses, and charming beach towns
This classic route is one of the most scenic road trips in Ohio and one of our bucket-list trips, taking you from the industrial edges of Toledo to the quiet harbor town of Conneaut on the edge of Ohio.
It’s a perfect long weekend getaway with coastal charm, cultural gems, and nature-based activities, but make sure to bring along your road trip essentials.
For more U.S. getaways, check out our United States travel guides.
Day 1: Toledo to Port Clinton
Stop 1: Toledo Museum of Art
Begin your weekend trip with a cultural gem.
The Toledo Museum of Art is home to more than 30,000 pieces, from classic European masters to contemporary art.
Admission is free, and the Glass Pavilion, located just across the street, highlights the city’s glassmaking history.
Stop 2: Marblehead Lighthouse
Drive east along the lakeshore to Marblehead Lighthouse, a Great Lakes icon operating since 1822.
Climb the tower for Instagrammable lake views ($3 USD), and explore the onsite museum.
The surrounding park is perfect for a picnic at lunch.
Overnight: Stay in Port Clinton (see our widget below), a laid-back harbor town and your starting point for island adventures (optional). Grab dinner at one of the lakefront grills and enjoy the marina at sunset.
Day 2: Port Clinton to Put-in-Bay
Stop 1: Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
Catch the ferry to South Bass Island (Put-in-Bay), a 25-minute ride with great views ($18 USD round trip per adult via Miller Ferry).
Visit Perry’s Monument to learn about the War of 1812 and climb to the observation deck for 360° views of Lake Erie.
Stop 2: Golf cart island tour
Rent a golf cart (from $15 USD per hour) and explore the island at your own pace.
Highlights include Crystal Cave, Heineman’s Winery, Butterfly House, and charming shops in the village center.
Overnight: Stay on Put-in-Bay for lakeside dining, breezy bars, and live music in the town square.
Day 3: Put-in-Bay to Geneva-on-the-Lake to Conneaut
Stop 1: Geneva Wineries (Grand River Valley)
After ferrying back to Port Clinton, continue east to Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio’s original resort town.
The surrounding Grand River Valley is packed with more than 20 wineries. Stop at favorites like M Cellars, Laurello Vineyards, or The Lakehouse Inn Winery for wine flights, fire pits, and vineyard views.
Try a glass of Ohio’s famous iced wine while soaking in the lakeside charm.
Stop 2: Lake Erie Bluffs
Head northeast for a final scenic stop at Lake Erie Bluffs, a 600-acre protected area with elevated views over the lake, wide trails, and a peaceful beach.
It’s the perfect spot to end your trip with a sunset and a quiet moment.
Final stop: Conneaut, a peaceful harbor town with a walkable beach, lighthouse views, and small-town charm. A great place to relax before heading home.
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
Summary:
- Route: Logan to Ash Cave (via OH-374 and park roads)
- Distance: 26 miles (42 kilometers)
- Ideal for: Waterfalls, hiking, and natural wonders
This short but adventure-packed route is one of the most popular nature-focused road trips in Ohio.
Winding through the heart of Hocking Hills State Park, this drive has forest trails, cliffs, gorges, waterfalls, and cave formations.
If you want peace of mind, bring along your road trip accessories so you are prepared for everything!
Day 1: Logan to Ash Cave
Stop 1: Ash Cave
Start with one of the most accessible yet breathtaking spots in Hocking Hills.
Ash Cave features a massive recessed cave and waterfall surrounded by sandstone cliffs.
The paved trail makes it stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, while the short loop adds variety for hikers.
Stop 2: Cedar Falls
Next, drive just a few minutes to Cedar Falls.
With the highest volume waterfall in the park, this stop is known for its mossy cliffs, hemlock-lined trails, and peaceful pools.
The hike is moderate, with stone stairs and a scenic loop.
Stop 3: Old Man’s Cave
Finish your day with the region’s most iconic hike.
Old Man’s Cave offers bridges, tunnels, waterfalls, and rock formations, all in a fairytale-like setting.
The full loop takes about 1 or 1.5 hours and is best explored in the golden light of late afternoon.
Overnight: Stay in a cabin or lodge near Logan. Book early, as weekends fill up quickly, especially in the fall.
Day 2: Logan to Conkle’s Hollow and Rock House
Stop 1: Conkle’s Hollow Nature Preserve
This quiet, lesser-known preserve features one of the deepest gorges in Ohio.
Choose between the flat Gorge Trail (easy and scenic) or the Rim Trail (strenuous but offers dramatic overlooks).
Stop 2: Rock House
Drive south to reach Rock House, the only true cave in Hocking Hills, where you can walk inside a tunnel-like corridor carved into a cliff.
The loop trail is rugged but short, and the cave itself offers cool shade and moody photo ops.
Overnight: Stay an extra night near Laurelville or return to Logan, depending on your pace.
Optional Day 3: Add more adventure
Stop 1: Cantwell Cliffs
This remote and dramatic part of Hocking Hills is further north and less visited.
The narrow passageways, steep steps, and rugged rock corridors make it a thrilling extension to your trip.
Stop 2: Hocking Hills Canopy Tours
End your visit with a zipline tour through the treetops.
Booking: via Hocking Hills Scenic Air Tours
Ohio Amish Country Byway
Summary:
- Route: Holmes County loop (Millersburg → Berlin → Walnut Creek → Sugarcreek → Charm)
- Distance: 160 miles (257 kilometers)
- Ideal for: Slow travel, scenic farms, and cultural immersion
The Ohio Amish Country Byway drives through Holmes County and its surroundings is one of the most peaceful and culturally rich road trips in Ohio.
It offers a window into the daily life of Amish communities, complete with rolling farmland, horse-drawn buggies, handmade craftsmanship, and home-cooked food.
DID YOU KNOW: The Amish Country Byway has been designated as a National Scenic Byway in 2002?
👉 INSIDER TIP: Keep an eye out for buggy warning signs! Don’t forget that you will be sharing the road with Amish buggies.
Day 1: Millersburg to Berlin
Stop 1: Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center
Start in Millersburg with a visit to this educational museum where you’ll find the “Behalt” cyclorama, a massive hand-painted mural illustrating Anabaptist history.
Guided tours give you deep insight into Amish beliefs, culture, and lifestyle. It’s a must-see to understand the region with context and respect.
Stop 2: Antique shopping in Berlin
Drive east to Berlin, the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country.
Spend your afternoon shopping in antique stores, quilt shops, and furniture galleries that line the town’s walkable streets.
Many products are handcrafted by local artisans, and shops often showcase live demonstrations.
Overnight: Stay in a farmhouse-style inn or B&B in Berlin for cozy countryside charm.
Day 2: Berlin to Walnut Creek to Sugarcreek
Stop 1: Amish bakeries in Walnut Creek.
Kick off your morning with pastries and coffee from Der Dutchman or Miller’s Bakery.
Walnut Creek is known for its baked goods, bulk food stores, and handmade gift shops.
Don’t miss Coblentz Chocolate Company for handcrafted sweets made onsite.
Stop 2: Ohio Star Theater in Sugarcreek
In the afternoon, head to Sugarcreek, nicknamed the “Little Switzerland of Ohio.”
Stop by the world’s largest cuckoo clock and take in a live performance or musical at the Ohio Star Theater, which features family-friendly shows with Amish storytelling and local talent.
Overnight: Stay in Sugarcreek or nearby Charm for quieter surroundings and views of open farmland.
Day 3: Sugarcreek to Charm and return
Stop 1: Horse-drawn farm tour.
Wrap up your trip with a guided horse-drawn buggy ride offered by local Amish families.
These tours take you past fields, schoolhouses, and barns, often with firsthand stories about everyday Amish life.
Some include stops at farms to see cheesemaking or woodworking in action.
Stop 2: Lunch at Boyd & Wurthmann
End your visit with a classic Amish meal in Berlin.
Boyd & Wurthmann is known for homestyle cooking and mile-high pies, all served in a dining room where locals gather.
The Grand Ohio Loop Road Trip
Summary:
- Route: Cincinnati → Dayton → Toledo → Cleveland → Akron → Holmes County → Hocking Hills → Athens → Cincinnati
- Distance: 950 miles (1,528 kilometers)
- Ideal for: Urban explorers, nature lovers, and cultural travelers
This full-state loop is one of the BEST and AMBITIOUS road trips in Ohio, blending urban discovery, natural beauty, historic trails, and small-town culture.
Perfect for a week-long itinerary, it hits every major corner of the state and is ideal for travelers who want to see the full range of Ohio in one journey.
Find more week-long U.S. road trip itineraries on Lost Between Oceans – United States.
Day 1: Cincinnati to Dayton
Stop 1: National Museum of the U.S. Air Force
Begin your trip with the largest military aviation museum in the world, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. This is a can’t-miss destination on your road trip to Ohio!
You’ll find presidential aircraft, space capsules, WWII bombers, and Cold War jets all under one roof.
Admission is free, and the scale is astonishing; you can easily spend half a day here.
Overnight: Stay in Dayton’s Oregon District for walkable dining and historic architecture.
Day 2: Dayton to Toledo
Stop 1: Oak Openings Preserve
After leaving Dayton, head northwest to one of the most biodiverse parks in the Midwest.
Oak Openings is a mosaic of oak savannas, wetlands, and dunes, making it an ideal destination for nature photography and short hikes.
Stop 2: Maumee Bay State Park
Just outside Toledo, Maumee Bay offers lakefront trails, a beach, and a peaceful boardwalk through wetlands.
It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs after the drive.
Overnight: Book a stay near Toledo’s downtown or at the lodge inside Maumee Bay State Park.
Day 3: Toledo to Cleveland
Stop 1: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
This iconic Cleveland museum covers everything from Elvis and The Beatles to contemporary artists.
Plan for at least 2–3 hours at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to explore exhibits and immersive sound experiences.
Stop 2: West Side Market
After the museum, grab lunch at this historic indoor market known for ethnic food stalls, fresh produce, and local specialties.
It’s a Cleveland landmark with serious character.
Overnight: Stay downtown or in Ohio City for nightlife and riverfront scenic views.
Day 4: Cleveland to Akron to Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Stop 1: Brandywine Falls
Head south to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, one of the most underrated parks in the U.S.
Brandywine Falls is a 65-foot waterfall framed by wooden boardwalks and forest trails, easily accessible and always photogenic.
Stop 2: The Ledges hike
This moderate 2.2-mile loop trail is the best hike in the park, offering dramatic stone cliffs, shady grottos, and a sunset overlook.
It’s a must for hikers and geology fans alike.
Overnight: Stay in or near Peninsula, a quaint town in the heart of the park.
Day 5: Cuyahoga to Amish Country (Holmes County)
Stop 1: Berlin shops and cheese trail.
Leave the park and head into Holmes County, home to the largest Amish population in the U.S.
Visit Berlin for handcrafted goods, and follow the cheese trail from Guggisberg to Heini’s Cheese Chalet for local tastings.
Overnight: Book a peaceful cabin or B&B in Walnut Creek or Charm for full countryside immersion.
Day 6: Amish Country to Hocking Hills
Stop 1: Old Man’s Cave and Cedar Falls
Drive southeast to Hocking Hills State Park, where sandstone gorges and waterfalls await. Old Man’s Cave is the most famous hike in the park, while Cedar Falls is a quieter gem nearby.
Plan your hikes for early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Overnight: Stay in a forest cabin with a hot tub, many of which are tucked into private corners of the park.
Day 7: Hocking Hills to Athens to Cincinnati
Stop 1: Ohio University campus stroll in Athens.
On your final day, pass through Athens, a vibrant college town with beautiful red-brick buildings and leafy streets.
Take a walk through OU’s historic green and stop for lunch at a local café like Bagel Street Deli or Jackie O’s Taproom.
Arrive back in Cincinnati by evening, completing the loop with a full-circle view of Ohio’s natural and cultural diversity.
If you want to spend the night near Cincinnati, we recommend one of these RV parks located close to the city.
Appalachian Ohio Discovery Route
Summary:
- Route: Marietta → Athens → Jackson → Portsmouth → Peebles → Logan → Marietta
- Distance: 380 miles (612 kilometers)
- Ideal for Remote landscapes, forested drives, and local history
This lesser-traveled loop is one of the most remote and scenic road trips in Ohio, winding through the Appalachian foothills.
Expect quiet backroads, forested parks, historical sites, and cultural pockets that most tourists miss.
For similar scenic detours, visit Lost Between Oceans – United States.
Day 1: Marietta to Athens
Stop 1: Campus Martius Museum
Begin in Marietta, Ohio’s oldest city, located at the confluence of the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers.
Visit the Campus Martius Museum to learn about early Ohio settlers and the Northwest Territory.
The exhibits are surprisingly engaging and packed with artifacts and history.
Stop 2: Court Street dining (Athens)
Drive west to Athens and settle in near the Ohio University campus, where Court Street is lined with indie cafés, bookstores, and local restaurants.
Grab a craft beer at Jackie O’s or a bite at Casa Nueva, both local favorites.
Overnight: Stay in Athens near the university for a walkable and lively atmosphere.
Day 2: Athens to Jackson
Stop 1: Zaleski State Forest
Head southwest to one of Ohio’s largest state forests.
Zaleski State Forest is known for its woodland trails and ridgeline views, especially in the fall.
Hike part of the backpack trail or stop at Lake Hope nearby for a peaceful rest spot.
Stop 2: Moonville Tunnel hike
Just outside the forest lies the Moonville Tunnel, a haunted and historic railroad tunnel deep in the woods.
A short gravel trail leads to it, and it’s a must-visit for photographers or folklore fans.
Overnight: Stay in Jackson, a small town with local diners and quiet surroundings.
Day 3: Jackson to Portsmouth
Stop 1: Shawnee State Park
Drive south into the Shawnee State Forest, also called the “Little Smokies of Ohio” for its rolling hills.
This is the most remote state park in the state, offering lakeside trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Stop 2: Mural walk in downtown Portsmouth
End your day with a stroll along Portsmouth’s Floodwall Murals, a series of over 60 paintings illustrating the town’s rich history.
It’s an open-air art gallery with a river view.
Overnight: Stay in Portsmouth or near Shawnee State Lodge for an immersive nature retreat.
Day 4: Portsmouth to Peebles
Stop 1: Serpent Mound
Travel east to one of the most fascinating ancient sites in the U.S., the Serpent Mound.
This 1,348-foot-long effigy mound is believed to have been constructed by Indigenous cultures over 1,000 years ago.
Climb the viewing platform to fully appreciate its shape.
Stop 2: Hiking trails near Serpent Mound
Several lesser-known trails nearby offer exploration of rolling hills, woodlands, and quiet countryside views.
Overnight: Stay in a rustic cabin or B&B near Peebles for stargazing.
Day 5: Peebles to Logan
Stop 1: Burr Oak State Park
Drive northeast to Burr Oak, a hidden gem with fewer crowds than Hocking Hills.
The park features wooded trails, a serene lake, and excellent spots for kayaking or canoeing.
Stop 2: Paddle at Lake Hope
On your way to Logan, stop at Lake Hope State Park for a paddle on the calm lake or a short hike through the forest.
Overnight: Book a cabin near Logan to prepare for your final day, or tack on one more hike in Hocking Hills if you missed it earlier in the trip.
Day 6: Logan to Marietta (loop ends)
Stop 1: Hocking Hills, repeat, or antique shopping in Marietta.
If you didn’t stop at Hocking Hills on Day 5, now’s your chance.
Explore Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave, or Rock House before looping back to Marietta.
Otherwise, use this day to explore Marietta’s antique stores, riverwalk, or paddle a rented kayak along the Ohio River.
KEEP IN MIND: Companies like Generali cover all the travel insurance you could need for your Ohio road trip, and it’s worth researching which services like this are most appropriate to you.
Western Ohio Heritage and Nature Trail
Summary:
- Route: Cincinnati → Dayton → Wapakoneta → Grand Lake St. Marys → Lima → Bowling Green → Toledo
- Distance: 420 miles (676 kilometers)
- Ideal for Space history, local eats, and lakeside relaxation
This scenic route across west-central Ohio blends heritage tourism, outdoor activities, and small-town charm.
One of the most underrated road trips in Ohio, it’s perfect for travelers who love mixing space museums, lakeside walks, and historic main streets.
With easy drives and unique local stops, this 5–6-day trip is ideal for families, couples, and slow travelers.
Discover more under-the-radar routes like this one on Lost Between Oceans – United States.
Day 1: Cincinnati to Dayton
Stop 1: Dayton Aviation Heritage Sites
Begin with a deep dive into the birthplace of flight.
The Carillon Historical Park includes the Wright Brothers’ bicycle shop and visitor center, plus exhibits on poet Paul Laurence Dunbar.
Walk the Wright-Dunbar neighborhood for an immersive historical experience.
Stop 2: Oregon District
End your day exploring the Oregon District, Dayton’s most vibrant historic neighborhood.
You’ll find indie bookstores, record shops, street art, and a great dinner scene with craft cocktails and local brews.
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Overnight: Stay in downtown Dayton or a boutique inn near the Oregon District.
Day 2: Dayton to Wapakoneta
Stop 1: Armstrong Air & Space Museum
Drive north to Wapakoneta, the hometown of Neil Armstrong.
The Armstrong Air & Space Museum features moon mission artifacts, a lunar module simulator, and fascinating Cold War space tech.
Overnight: Stay locally or in nearby St. Marys for lakeside access the next morning.
Day 3: Wapakoneta to Grand Lake St. Marys
Stop 1: Boardwalk hike along Grand Lake.
Spend the day relaxing by Grand Lake St. Marys, Ohio’s largest inland lake.
The Boardwalk Trail at the state park is a quiet, bird-rich walkway perfect for spotting herons and egrets.
You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards at the marina.
Stop 2: Sunset views over the lake
In the evening, head to Windy Point Road for one of the lake’s best west-facing sunset spots.
Locals adore this hidden gem for its expansive views, gentle breeze, and serene ambiance.
Overnight: Stay in a lakeside cottage or vintage motel in St. Marys.
Day 4: St. Marys to Lima to Bowling Green
Stop 1: Canal Boat Museum in Delphos (en route)
Before reaching Lima, detour to Delphos to explore a small museum dedicated to the Miami & Erie Canal era, with restored canal boats and exhibits on 19th-century travel and commerce.
Stop 2: Indie food scene in Bowling Green
Once in Bowling Green, grab lunch or dinner at The Stones Throw Tavern or Flatlands Coffee.
This university town boasts a thriving independent food scene, largely due to the presence of BGSU’s student population.
Overnight: Stay in Bowling Green for easy access to Toledo the next day.
Day 5: Bowling Green to Toledo
Stop 1: Toledo Zoo & Aquarium
Drive to Toledo and visit one of the top-rated zoos in the U.S. It’s a highlight for families and travelers.
The zoo features polar bears, underwater tunnels, and a stunning tropical rainforest dome.
Budget 2–3 hours minimum.
Stop 2: Metroparks trail walk
After the zoo, visit one of Toledo’s award-winning Metroparks. Wildwood Preserve and Oak Openings offer peaceful wooded trails, wildflowers, and birdwatching.
Overnight: Stay in Toledo’s historic Old West End or near the waterfront for art, food, and culture.
Optional Day 6: Maumee Bay State Park
Stop 1: Maumee Bay beach + biking trails.
End your road trip with a day at Maumee Bay State Park, located on the shores of Lake Erie.
Enjoy beach access, paved bike paths, wetland boardwalks, and picnic spots.
