From Heartland to Heights: Your Road Trip from Dayton, OH to Ridgewood, NJ
Driving from Dayton, Ohio to Ridgewood, New Jersey is not just a journey from one interesting place to another; it’s a delightful adventure packed with scenic landscapes, charming towns, and mouthwatering stops along the way. With a distance of approximately 620 miles, your road trip promises to be a memorable experience filled with fun detours and tasty feasts. Let’s explore the different routes you can take and what you can encounter on this wonderful trip!
Route 1: The Scenic I-70 and I-76
One of the most popular routes is to take I-70 East to I-76 East. This drive will cover around 620 miles, taking approximately 10 hours of pure driving time without any lengthy breaks. Along this route, you can marvel at the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and, with a few clever stops, turn a long drive into an exhilarating exploration.
Must-Stop: Columbus, OH
As you head toward Ridgewood, don’t miss the chance to stop in Columbus, Ohio. It’s just an hour's drive past Dayton, and a perfect place to stretch your legs. Columbus has a vibrant food scene; be sure to try a slice of the famed Columbus-style pizza at “Donato's” or enjoy some delicious locally brewed beer at “Lineage Brewing.”
Next Stop: Pittsburgh, PA
Continuing on I-76, Pittsburgh is a great mid-way spot. It’s approximately 3.5 hours from Columbus. Explore the historic Point State Park or indulge in a classic Primanti Bros. sandwich, which is stuffed with fries and coleslaw. The city’s beautiful skyline is definitely a picture to capture.
Route 2: I-70 to I-75 and Beyond
Another route option is to take I-70 East and then switch over to I-75 to I-80. This scenic route will slightly increase your travel distance to about 635 miles and could stretch your travel time to around 10.5 hours. However, the vibrant experiences along this journey may make it worthwhile!
Check Out: Toledo, OH
Just about an hour from Dayton, Toledo is home to the beautiful Toledo Museum of Art. You can take a tour of one of America's most esteemed art museums, or enjoy a leisurely walk along the Maumee River waterfront. Grab a bite at “Tony Packo's” for their famous Hungarian hot dogs.
Extra Fun: Erie, PA
After Toledo, you'll continue on I-80 and venture around Lake Erie. Plan to stop in Erie, Pennsylvania, which is about 2.5 hours away from Toledo. Don’t miss Presque Isle State Park, where you can enjoy some beach time or a lovely picnic.
Route 3: I-70 Straight Shot
For those looking for a straightforward trip, going directly via I-70 all the way to I-295 might just be the ticket. This route totals around 620 miles as well, with a driving time of about 10 hours, excluding any stops. It’s the fastest way to reach your destination while still providing opportunities for mini-adventures.
En Route: Wheeling, WV
A must-stop along this route is Wheeling, West Virginia, roughly 3 hours into your drive. Enjoy scenic views of the Ohio River while sipping on a local craft soda, or take a detour to visit the Wheeling Suspension Bridge — a historic landmark worth your time.
Historic Charm: Gettysburg, PA
Continuing onward, consider a short diversion toward Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Not only is this area rich in history, but it also serves as a nice pause on your journey. Walk through the battlefield and soak in some education, or savor a slice of pie at one of the nearby quaint diners.
Time to Hit the Road!
Whichever route you choose for your road trip from Dayton, Ohio to Ridgewood, New Jersey, remember that the journey is just as important as the destination. Between the stunning landscapes, enticing platefuls, and fascinating towns, you'll create lasting memories along the way. So crank up your favorite playlist, pack some snacks, and hit the road! Your adventure awaits!