Photo: Mike Tewkesbury via CC
From streams and rivers to subtle hills and sprawling cornfields, Ohio has varied settings to satisfy different tastes. Witness the Buckeye State’s natural beauty when you try one or more of these scenic drives.
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Ohio River Scenic Byway
This 443-mile route follows the Ohio River from Cincinnati to East Liverpool and takes around 9 hours to travel. Stop at historic and cultural sites along the way to learn more about the past residents that helped make the state what it is today and take some selfies on the riverbanks.
If you start the drive in Cincinnati and travel east, make sure to stop by the Harriet Beecher Stowe House, National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and Rankin House. Continue your journey with pitstops to Serpent Mound and Portsmouth Murals, as well as the Bob Evans Farm and Homestead Museum. Finish up the journey by visiting the Hannibal Locks and Dam, Wellsville River Museum, and Liverpool’s Museum of Ceramics.
Amish Country Scenic Byway
As its name implies, this drive weaves more than 160 miles through Amish towns and counties, delivering stunning vistas of lush farmland and rolling hills. Sample traditional Amish and German dining when you stop at one of the many restaurants along the route. Or purchase fresh meat and produce from a local stand, to help support local business.
The route itself takes about 3-4 hours to traverse without stopping. So, you might want to give yourself a few days so you can take in the sights at a more leisurely pace.
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
This route spans over 26 miles and boasts views of forests, meadows, cliffs, and waterfalls for a rewarding drive. Start the drive on State Route 374 at US 33 in Rockbridge then head west.
Stretch your legs at Hocking Hill State Park sites like Rock House, Conkle’s Hollow, Old Man’s Cave, and Ash Cave. Pause at the Village of Mound Crossing to view the mound that the town was named for. According to Explore Hocking Hills, the Hopewell Indians built the mound before the birth of Christ. When you get to Logan, check out the antique malls or try the vino at Hocking Hills Winery.
For more scenic routes in the Midwest, check out these stunning drives in Wisconsin.
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Whitney Russell resides in Dayton, though her spirit can be found beach-bumming in Puerto Rico (the land of her half-Puerto Rican heritage). When not crafting car-related content, she can be found chasing after the most amazing toddler in the world, watching her “beaver” of a husband build amazing woodworking projects, hanging out with two crazy dogs, and visiting family and friends. She also enjoys traveling, crafting, and binge-watching period dramas when time allows. See more articles by Whitney.