Ohio Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the wonders of Ohio on this road trip that starts and ends in Columbus. Along the way, you'll visit Steubenville, Galliopolis, Cincinnati, Toledo and Cleveland. This 1841km journey can be completed in 14 days and is best enjoyed during the summer months when the weather is warm and the roads are in excellent condition.
This road trip provides an excellent experience and plenty of memories. It is suitable for all drivers and can be done on a moderate budget. Enjoy the sights of Ohio and make sure to take lots of pictures to remember your journey!
14
number of days
1,841 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
Columbus
Distance 1,841 km
Driving time 25.9 h
Pace: fast
552.2 kWh
Airports
CMH
[detailsContainer]
Columbus, Ohio is a great starting point for the Ohio Road Trip. This vibrant city is filled with activities, attractions and sights that make it an ideal destination. With its diverse neighborhoods, extensive parks and gardens, excellent restaurants and shopping, and a vibrant nightlife, it is easy to see why Columbus is one of America's favorite cities.
Some of the must-see attractions in Columbus include the Scioto Mile, a linear park along the downtown riverfront; the Short North Arts District, home to unique galleries, boutiques and restaurants; the German Village, a National Historic Landmark District; and the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
For those traveling by air, Columbus International Airport (CMH) is the closest international airport. There are several car rental services located at the airport, making it easy to pick up a car and start your road trip.
No matter what your interests, Columbus has something for everyone. From its vibrant cultural scene to its great outdoors, this city is sure to make a lasting impression. Enjoy your Ohio Road Trip!
1
Columbus
- Steubenville
Distance 260 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: fast
77.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to one of the most exciting road trips: the Columbus to Steubenville route! This 161-mile journey takes you through some of the most interesting places in the United States.
Start your trip in Columbus, Ohio, home to the Ohio State University and the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Don't forget to explore the Scioto Mile, the city's downtown riverfront park, and the German Village neighborhood.
Continue your journey to Newark, Ohio, where you can visit the National Heisey Glass Museum. Don't miss out on the Newark Earthworks, an ancient complex of geometric earthworks built by the Hopewell culture.
Next, head to Zanesville, Ohio, home to the Zanesville Museum of Art. Check out the Y-Bridge, the city's iconic bridge that spans the Licking River.
Finally, make your way to Steubenville, Ohio, where you can explore the Historic Fort Steuben and the Jefferson County Historical Museum.
This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Steubenville - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
Steubenville - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
2
Steubenville
- Marietta
Distance 193 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
58.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Experience a road trip full of adventure and fun! Starting from Steubenville, United States, you can reach Marietta in fewer than 3 hours. Along the way, you will find many interesting places to visit, such as the Steubenville Historic District, a National Historic Landmark, the Ohio River Museum, and the Ohio River Scenic Byway. In Marietta, you can visit the Campus Martius Museum, the Ohio River Museum, and the Castle Museum. You can also enjoy the Marietta Pilots Baseball Game, the Ohio River Sternwheel Festival, and the Marietta Freedom Festival. The distance between Steubenville and Marietta is 120mi, so you can easily drive the route in a single day. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Let's start the journey!
Marietta - United States - North America - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
3
Marietta
- Galliopolis
Distance 163 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
48.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Marietta-Gallipolis road trip! This 101-mile journey will take you less than 3 hours to complete and is part of a larger tour.
Start your adventure in Marietta, a historic city located in Washington County, Ohio. Here, you can explore the Campus Martius Museum, the oldest building in the Northwest Territory. You can also visit the Ohio River Museum and the Castle, a restored 19th-century home.
Continue your journey to Gallipolis, located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Here, you can visit the Ohio River Museum, the Ohio Valley River Museum, and the Point Pleasant River Museum. You can also take a stroll along the Riverwalk, a scenic boardwalk along the Ohio River.
Along the way, you can make stops at the many charming towns and villages located in the area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
We hope you enjoy your Marietta-Gallipolis road trip!
Galliopolis - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
4
Galliopolis
- Portsmouth
Distance 156 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: fast
46.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready for a fun road trip from Gallipolis to Portsmouth? This 97-mile drive will take you less than 3 hours, so you can make the most of your time on the road. Enjoy the stunning views of the Ohio River, drive through the historical sites of Gallipolis and Portsmouth, and explore the local attractions.
Start your journey in Gallipolis and visit the Ohio Valley River Museum and the Gallipolis City Park. The museum will give you a glimpse into the history of the area, while the park is a perfect spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
Continue your journey to Portsmouth and explore the historic downtown area. The Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center is a must-see, and the Portsmouth Floodwall Murals are a great way to learn about the city’s history. Don’t forget to check out the Scioto County Welcome Center, where you can find more information about the area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Portsmouth - United States - North America - Road Trip - Flickr
❯
❮
5
Portsmouth
- Cincinnati
Distance 186 km
Driving time 2.5 h
Pace: fast
55.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready to explore the beauty of the United States? Get ready for the Portsmouth to Cincinnati road trip! This 116mi journey will take you through some of the most interesting places in the country.
Start your adventure in Portsmouth, a city located at the confluence of the Scioto and Ohio rivers. Here you can visit the Portsmouth Flood Wall Murals, a collection of more than 60 outdoor murals that tell the story of the city.
Continue your journey to Lucasville, a small town with a rich history and some beautiful scenery. Here you can explore the Lucasville Trade Days, a flea market that takes place on the fourth weekend of every month.
Next, you will arrive in Waverly, a small city with a variety of attractions. Take a stroll through the Waverly Historic District, a neighborhood with homes dating back to the 19th century.
Finally, you will reach your destination, Cincinnati. Here you can explore the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, one of the oldest zoos in the United States. Or, take a walk along the Ohio River and admire the stunning views.
This is just one stage of your road trip. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the ride!
Cincinnati - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikipedio - Wikipedia
❯
❮
6
Cincinnati
- Lima
Distance 205 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: fast
61.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Cincinnati-Lima Road Trip Stage! This stage of your road trip is only 127 miles and will take you fewer than 3 hours to drive.
We recommend starting your journey in Cincinnati, Ohio. Here you can visit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, a great place to see animals from all over the world. Also don't miss the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, where you can learn about the history of the Underground Railroad and the people who used it.
Your next stop is Lima, Ohio. Here you can explore the Allen County Museum, a great place to learn about the history of Allen County. The museum also features a variety of artifacts from the area's past. You can also visit the Lima Public Library, where you can find a variety of books and resources to learn more about Lima and its history.
This is just one of the stages of your road trip, so make sure to check the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Have a great trip!
Lima - United States - North America - Road Trip - de.m.wikipedia.org
❯
❮
7
Lima
- Toledo
Distance 128 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
38.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the Lima-Toledo road trip stage! This 79mi journey will take you less than 2 hours to complete.
Start off your journey in Lima, where you can visit the Allen County Museum and the Lima Army Tank Plant. After that, make your way to the town of Delphos, where you can explore the Delphos Canal Museum and the Delphos Canal Commission Museum.
Continue your journey to the city of Findlay. Here, you can visit the Hancock Historical Museum and the Mazza Museum.
Your next stop is the city of Bowling Green, home to the Wood County Historical Center and Museum and the National Museum of the Great Lakes.
Finally, you will arrive in Toledo, where you can explore the Toledo Museum of Art and the Toledo Zoo.
This is just one of the many stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Toledo - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
8
Toledo
- Sandusky
Distance 88 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
26.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
If you are looking for an exciting road trip stage, then look no further! Starting in Toledo, United States, and ending in Sandusky, this 55mi journey will take you less than 2 hours to complete.
In Toledo, you will find the Toledo Museum of Art, the Toledo Zoo, and the Imagination Station science center. In Sandusky, you can visit the Cedar Point Amusement Park, the Merry-Go-Round Museum, and the Maritime Museum of Sandusky.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, so you can continue your journey after this one. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage.
So, why not take a break and explore the attractions of Toledo and Sandusky? You won't regret it!
Sandusky - United States - North America - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
9
Sandusky
- Cleveland
Distance 103 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
26.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Welcome to the wonderful road trip stage between Sandusky and Cleveland! This 64mi stretch of highway takes less than two hours to drive, making it an ideal part of a longer tour. On your journey, you will have the chance to explore some of the most interesting sites in the region.
In Sandusky, be sure to visit Cedar Point Amusement Park, where you can enjoy thrilling rides and attractions. Or, you can explore the maritime history of the city with a visit to the Maritime Museum of Sandusky.
As you drive towards Cleveland, you can stop at the beautiful Maumee Bay State Park, home to a variety of wildlife and water-related activities. Once you reach Cleveland, you'll have the chance to visit the world-famous Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or take a stroll along the Cleveland Lakefront Nature Preserve.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Cleveland - United States - North America - Road Trip - pxhere.com
❯
❮
10
Cleveland
- Akron
Distance 66 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: modest
17.1 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Start your journey in Cleveland, Ohio, and explore its attractions before you drive to Akron. The drive is a short one, only 41 miles and should take you less than two hours. Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Afterward, you can head to Akron and explore the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, the Akron Art Museum, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Take a break and enjoy the scenery and activities offered in the park. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Akron - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
11
Akron
- Columbus
Distance 293 km
Driving time 4.2 h
Pace: fast
87.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Start your road trip in Akron, United States, and take a 182mi drive to Berlin. You will have plenty of time to enjoy the sights along the way and can reach Berlin in less than 5 hours. Berlin is a small town located in the heart of Ohio and is known for its historical downtown and the National Road. There are plenty of attractions to explore, such as the Berlin Historical Museum, the Berlin Town Hall, and the Berlin Clay Museum. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the Amish Country, the Ohio and Erie Canal, and the Berlin Lake. After exploring Berlin, take the same route back to Columbus. Here, you can visit the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, the Ohio Statehouse, and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. All these places are within easy reach of the city centre. With so much to explore, this stage of your road trip is sure to be a memorable one. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Columbus - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
Columbus
[detailsContainer]
The final stop of the Ohio Road Trip is Columbus, the capital of the Buckeye State. This vibrant city is full of attractions and activities to explore.
Start by visiting the Ohio Statehouse, the state Capitol of Ohio. This historic building is perfect for a tour and provides a great view of the city from the top of its cupola. Then head to the Columbus Museum of Art to explore the galleries and exhibitions.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, the Scioto Mile is a great place to visit. This urban park features a riverfront promenade, fountains, and trails for walking and biking. There’s also a number of parks and green spaces for a peaceful stroll.
For shopping and entertainment, head over to Easton Town Center with its mix of retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Check out the Arena District for a lively nightlife scene.
Don’t forget to try the city’s German heritage cuisine, including bratwurst, sauerkraut, and potato pancakes. You’ll also find plenty of barbecue joints and ethnic restaurants throughout the city.
The closest international airport to Columbus is John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH). So, plan your trip today and end the Ohio Road Trip in the vibrant city of Columbus.
Ohio Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Columbus
-
End:
Columbus
-
Distance:
1,841 km
-
Stay:
14 days
-
Getting there:
John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
-
When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Experience the captivating allure of Ohio on a 1,841 km (1,144 miles) Road Trip that meanders through the Buckeye State's rich tapestry of landscapes and urban gems. Commencing in Columbus, the state capital, this 14-day voyage of discovery loops through historic Steubenville, the picturesque riverside town of Gallipolis, the vibrant cityscapes of Cincinnati, Toledo with its cultural treasures, and the iconic lakefront city of Cleveland. This journey, suitable for drivers on a moderate budget, reveals Ohio's multifaceted charm and is sure to leave you with lasting impressions.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Columbus: Immerse yourself in Ohio's capital, celebrated for its dynamic arts scene, extensive parklands, and the renowned Columbus Zoo and Aquarium. Don't miss the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a haven of flora and artistic installations.
- Steubenville: Step back in time with a visit to Historic Fort Steuben, and admire the city's famous murals depicting its industrial heritage.
- Gallipolis: Bask in the idyllic ambience of this river town, with roots in French history, and explore the Gallia County Histoire Museum and Our House Tavern.
- Cincinnati: Experience the vibrant energy of Cincinnati's waterfront at The Banks, see exotic wildlife at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, and wander through the Over-the-Rhine district, an enclave of sublime 19th-century architecture and a buzzing culinary scene.
- Toledo: Indulge your artistic senses at the Toledo Museum of Art, boasting an impressive collection, and embrace nature's beauty at Maumee Bay State Park.
- Cleveland: Revel in musical history at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, browse the stalls of the West Side Market, and take in panoramic views of Lake Erie from the Cleveland Metroparks.
Best Time to Go:
Embark on this Ohio adventure during the summer months, when the state basks in warm weather, perfect for exploring its abundant outdoor attractions and engaging in local events.
Potential Risks:
The summer season, while ideal for travel, can bring occasional thunderstorms. Stay alert to weather forecasts and ensure your vehicle receives regular maintenance to avoid any mechanical surprises.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Ohio boasts an impressive legacy as the birthplace of aviation pioneers, the Wright brothers.
- The state is dotted with historical sites from the Underground RailRoad, testament to its role in the abolitionist movement.
- Home to eight U.S. Presidents, Ohio's political significance is palpable in its many presidential museums and landmarks.
- Ohio's culinary scene is diverse, featuring regional specialties like Cincinnati chili and the classic Polish boy sandwich in Cleveland.
A good choice for:
As you traverse Ohio's heartland, prepare to be enchanted by the state's premier attractions and hidden gems. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or urban explorer, this Road Trip offers a rich palette of experiences. Document your journey with photos and relish the memories you'll create while uncovering the vibrant spirit of Ohio.
-
