Ohio Road Trip: Columbus to Lake Erie and Cuyahoga Valley

Explore Ohio's diverse attractions across 1,709.6 km, from Columbus and its landmarks like Franklin Park and LeVeque Tower to the Roebling Suspension Bridge near the Ohio River. The route connects Dayton's aviation heritage sites with natural wonders including Hocking Hills State Park, Lake Erie's shoreline, and the Cuyahoga Valley.

Distance
1709.6 km
Mode
route
Start
Welcome to Ohio
End
Ohio State House
Stops
19
Video author
travmap
Updated

Stops on this route

  1. Welcome to Ohio — Midwestern state known for diverse landscapes, industrial heritage, and natural attractions spanning from Lake Erie shores to Appalachian foothills.
  2. Columbus – Ohio State Capital — Ohio's state capital and political centerpiece in the Midwest, with vibrant innovation and historic landmarks.
  3. East Market Columbus — At the heart of Columbus, East Market stands as a vibrant gathering place.
  4. Roebling Suspension Bridge — An iconic engineering landmark spanning the Ohio River near Cincinnati.
  5. Dayton – Aviation Heritage Hub — Founded in 1796 at a riverside crossing, Dayton grew through canals and roads connecting settlers across the Ohio Valley.
  6. Dayton Aviation Heritage NHP — Visitors can experience the story of powered flight at the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park sites.
  7. Scioto River — Bridges arch across the Scioto River with sculptural grace; featured prominently in Columbus's urban landscape.
  8. Lake Erie — Ohio boasts approximately 312 miles of shoreline along Lake Erie.
  9. Lake Erie Shoreline — Ohio boasts approximately 312 miles of shoreline along Lake Erie.
  10. Columbus City Hall — Columbus City Hall rises with restrained grandeur and neoclassical columns, facing the Scioto riverfront.
  11. LeVeque Tower — The LeVeque Tower captures attention with its glittering Art Deco grandeur on the Columbus skyline.
  12. Franklin Park — Open to the public since 1851, Franklin Park is an elegant urban green space featuring the historic John F. Wolf Palmhouse (opened 1895).
  13. Franklin Park & Conservatory — Open to the public since 1851, Franklin Park is an elegant urban green space featuring the historic John F. Wolf Palmhouse (opened 1895).
  14. Jeffrey Mansion — Historic Victorian estate showcasing 19th-century architecture and period furnishings, offering insight into Ohio's wealthy industrial era.
  15. Cuyahoga Valley — Scenic river valley featuring towering cliffs, dense forests, and hiking trails between Cleveland and Akron in northeastern Ohio.
  16. Hocking Hills State Park
  17. Huntington Park — Downtown Columbus baseball stadium and entertainment venue hosting minor league games and cultural events along the Scioto River.
  18. Goodale Park — Historic 44-acre urban park in Columbus featuring walking paths, gardens, and cultural institutions in the heart of the city.
  19. Ohio State House — Completed in 1861, the Ohio State House remains one of the nation's oldest active capital buildings.

Useful for your trip

Tip
Ohio has approximately 312 miles of shoreline along Lake Erie despite being landlocked, offering inland coastal experiences.
Tip
Visit East Market in Columbus for a vibrant gathering place with local energy and conversation.
Tip
The Topiary Park in Columbus features an open-air gallery with sculpted formations and a tranquil reflecting pond.
Transport
The Roebling Suspension Bridge, completed January 1st 1867, connects Cincinnati and Covington. It was the world's longest suspension bridge at the time and prototype for the Brooklyn Bridge.
Tip
Visit Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park to experience the story of powered flight invention.
Tip
Dayton held more patents per capita than any other city worldwide by the early 20th century, reflecting its innovation heritage.
Tip
The Ohio State House, completed in 1861, is one of the nation's oldest active capital buildings with Greek Revival architecture and limestone exterior.
Tip
Columbus bridges arch across the Scioto River with sculptural grace, linking neighborhoods and adding elegance to the city's skyline.
Tip
Explore small towns between major urban centers where traditions remain alive, with local markets, historic theaters, and seasonal fairs.

Video on this route

Wonders of Ohio | Secret Places Only Locals Know About | Travel Video 4K

More routes nearby

Map