The Ultimate Road Trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Cincinnati, Ohio

Are you planning a road trip down from Old Ottawa to Cincinnati, Ohio? It's a long drive, but there are plenty of fun and interesting places to stop along the way. From natural wonders to cultural hotspots, this part of the country has something for everyone.

To help make your journey more enjoyable, we've put together a list of the top places to see along the way. So buckle up, turn on your Spotify playlist, and let's hit the road!

Natural Wonders

Niagara Falls (Canada)

No road trip from Old Ottawa to Cincinnati is complete without a stop to the stunning Niagara Falls. Just a quick detour from the main route, Niagara Falls is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Whether you’re watching the falls from the shore, taking a boat tour below, or soaring above on a helicopter, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.

Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)

Located in Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park is the world's longest known cave system with over 400 miles of explored caverns. Visitors can take guided tours and learn about the unique geology and history of the caves. There are also plenty of hiking trails and campsites within the park, so you can make a day or two of your trip to Mammoth Cave.

Hocking Hills State Park (Ohio)

Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio boasts some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the state. With miles of hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, and unique rock formations that are millions of years old, Hocking Hills is a great place to stretch your legs and experience the great outdoors.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (Michigan)

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan is a stunning destination featuring dramatic cliffs, sand dunes, waterfalls, and more. The park offers activities for all visitors, including scenic drives, hiking, backpacking, and camping. The park also offers paddle tours on kayaks and canoes, making it easy to explore the shoreline from new angles.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (Michigan)

Another natural gem located in Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers miles of sandy beaches, towering dunes, and incredible views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, and even take a scenic drive through the park to experience the beauty of the area.

Cultural Hotspots

Chicago (Illinois)

The Windy City is one of the most popular destinations in the Midwest and it's easy to see why. From the breathtaking skyscrapers to the world-famous deep-dish pizza, there is something for everyone in Chicago. Must-see attractions include the Willis Tower Skydeck, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier.

Cleveland (Ohio)

Cleveland is a city on the rise with a thriving culinary and arts scene. Visitors can tour the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, take a stroll through the city's cultural gardens, or catch a game at Progressive Field. The city also boasts beautiful parks, a metropark system, as well as fun entertainment districts like the Flats and Ohio City.

Detroit (Michigan)

Detroit may have a reputation for being a bit rough around the edges, but don't let that fool you. The city is experiencing a rejuvenation and has plenty to offer visitors. Some highlights include the Detroit Institute of Arts, Belle Isle Park, Eastern Market, and the Motown Museum.

Columbus (Ohio)

Ohio's capital city, Columbus, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with plenty to see and do. The city has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated throughout the city at places like the Ohio Theater and the German Village. The city also plays host to many music festivals, like the highly popular annual Rock on the Range.

Cincinnati (Ohio)

Last but not least... your final destination! Cincinnati is the 'Queen City' of Ohio, set on the banks of the Ohio River. There's plenty to do here, from visiting museums like the Cincinnati Art Museum and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center to catching a baseball game at the Great American Ball Park. The city also has a budding food scene, with plenty of restaurants serving up unique eats.

Conclusion

There you have it - the top places to see when driving from Old Ottawa to Cincinnati. We hope this list gives you plenty of ideas for your upcoming road trip. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, so take your time and enjoy the ride!