Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Whether you need a rural getaway or a bustling weekend in the city, Ohio will not disappoint. Known as the Buckeye State, Ohio's charms are connected by highways designated as Scenic Byways, making road trips a preferred way of getting around. The best time to travel around Ohio is from May through October, as summers are relatively mild and fall is colorful with the changing leaves.
Southeast Ohio is home to the largest Amish population in the world, and the Amish country is one of the most popular destinations in the state. All of the state and federal highways in the Amish counties are Ohio Scenic Byways. Visitors enjoy shopping for antiques, sturdy and beautifully handcrafted furniture, homemade quilts, pottery, candles and other artisan-made goods. Visits to Amish craftspeople studios, horse-drawn carriage rides and holiday sleigh rides are also available. Historic Millersberg and Berlin are the hubs of the area, with lodging, eateries and museums. Many cabins and bed and breakfasts are available throughout the Amish country as well. The best bet is to drive in on a Friday evening, then rise early on Saturday to sightsee and shop around the area. Sundays are a day of worship, so many businesses are closed.
Athens is a town of 22,000 people in the middle of Appalachian Ohio. Ohio University's main campus is in Athens, with nearly 20,000 students. Inexpensive rents, intellectual community and proximity to natural beauty have made Athens home for many artists; with open studios and small shops are a testament to this. For a weekend getaway, spend one day in Athens perusing the artsy establishments. Your next day can be spent biking or hiking on Athens Trial, a trail system that combines both off-road and on-road paths around town, or go horseback riding on bridle trails in nearby Strouds Run State Park or Wayne National Forest.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park covers 33,000 acres along Ohio's Cuyahoga River. Cuyahoga Valley National Park has bridle trails for horseback riding; hiking and mountain biking trails; and forest, ponds and hillsides to explore. Stay in a nearby motel camp at the primitive campsites.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
15610 Vaughn Road
Brecksville, OH 44141
330-657-2752
nps.gov
Sometimes you need a getaway to the city, for a shot of culture and fun. While each city in Ohio has its attractions, Cleveland stands out. With The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, boat cruises on Lake Erie, Cedar Point Amusement Park with its world class roller coasters and one of the biggest farmer's markets in the world, there is truly something for everyone in Cleveland. Golf at one of the 100 courses around the city, check out a show at PlayhouseSquare or take in a game, as Cleveland is home to many sports teams. For art lovers, University Circle is a square mile of the arts.