Best Fall Road Trips in Ohio
Road trips are one of the best ways to explore your state while enjoying the changing leaves. Pack up the family your camper or RV and go on a weekend adventure, or just drive for the day. Roll down the windows and take a road trip to enjoy the beautiful Fall foliage. With weather this nice, you’re guaranteed to enjoy your trip!
Before you head out, here are a few road trip tips:
- Fill up your tank before you leave so you can enjoy your trip uninterrupted by an emergency gas station visit.
- Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition– although the weather is nice, you don’t want to spend a nice day broken down on the side of the road.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged. Bring a portable charger for when you’re running low on battery.
- Don’t take photos while driving; either pull over and do a little exploring or have your passengers snap the shots.
- Pack snacks for the trip. Some healthy options include trail mix, vegetables and hummus, fresh fruit and nut butter, and pretzels.
- Bring water bottles and hand sanitizer to stay hydrated and clean.
Now that you’re ready to hit the road, here are some sure to please ideas:
Visit Amish Country
Shop for Holmes County antiques and artisanal quilts, step back in time at the German Culture Museum, feed buffalo at the Farm at Walnut Creek, or taste the original Baby Swiss at Guggisberg Cheese. Visit Roscoe Village’s 47th Annual Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival (October 21-22 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and October 23 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) for samples, demonstrations and live entertainment. If you’re planning on camping, there are plenty of scenic RV parks to choose from.
Stay in Hocking Hills
Enjoy the scenery on the drive down, then hike through the park. Old Man’s Cave boasts popular hiking routes, and you can admire the waterfalls at Ash Cave and Cedar Falls. If you’re looking for wildlife, consider fishing at Lake Logan State Park, where you can check out the local wild turkey and white-tailed deer. Choose whichever campground fits your family’s preferences–many are easily accessible and tranquil spots with stellar views.
Tour John Bryan State Park in Yellow Springs
John Bryan is a 752-acre park with a stunning limestone gorge, ample hiking trails and abundant wildlife. Set up camp here and stay for the day, or branch out and explore nearby Glen Helen Nature Preserve, taste homemade ice cream at Young’s Jersey Dairy, and experience historic Clifton Mill. If you’re interested in local boutiques, food and art, visit downtown Yellow Springs. Pack your bikes if you’re heading to John Bryan–the Little Miami Scenic Trail runs from Cincinnati to Urbana.
Explore Ashtabula County
Ashtabula County is situated along Lake Erie, and the area is full of family activities. Camp at Geneva State Park, where fishing and boating are a way of life. Visit the more than 20 family-owned wineries and dine at one of the local restaurants. You can’t miss the Barn Quilt Trail, which meanders through orchards, historic sites and private residences. And did you know Ashtabula County is Ohio’s Covered Bridge Capital?
For more suggestions on driving routes filtered by region of the state, visit the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ Fall Color Driving Tours.
Happy trails!
