Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Bridgeport, West Virginia and Toledo, Ohio
Driving from Bridgeport, West Virginia to Toledo, Ohio can be a long, tiring journey. However, it does not have to be just an 8-hour drive. There are plenty of beautiful and interesting places to stop along the way that are worth exploring. The trip covers over 300 miles and takes approximately 7 hours and 54 minutes. This article will highlight five unexpected places to stop that will break up your drive and make it a memorable experience.
Halfway Point: North Jackson, OH
Before diving into the five unexpected places to visit, it is essential to highlight the historic North Jackson, OH. This small village is situated halfway through the journey. You should take the opportunity to stretch your legs and take a quick tour of the city. A drive through town will give you a glimpse of lovely homes, churches, and unique shops, including antique shops such as the Village Barn.
North Jackson is an excellent choice for a break, especially if you love historical places. The village has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s, which makes it worth visiting.
1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
If you're looking for a place to stretch your legs and relax, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a great choice. It is an oasis of natural beauty and tranquility located right off Route 77, making it an ideal stop to break up the journey. This national park spans over 33,000 acres and offers numerous recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and biking.
If you plan to have a picnic, the park has designated picnic areas. You can also take a train ride and experience the park's beauty from a different perspective. The park is open year-round to visitors and provides a great opportunity to get out and enjoy nature.
Favorite food in the area: Stop by the charming farmer's market located inside the park and grab some fresh apples, cheese, and homemade pies.
2. Canton Classic Car Museum
The Canton Classic Car Museum is a perfect stop for car enthusiasts. The museum has a vast collection of classic and vintage cars that will take you back in time. The museum is easy to locate off Route 30 and offers ample parking space.
The museum boasts display areas with more than 50 antique and vintage automobiles, including the 1913 Austro Daimler Touring, 1937 Packard, and 1963 Studebaker Avanti. It is an excellent place to see how automobiles have evolved over the decades and learn about the history of classic cars.
Favorite food in the area: Drop by Nom Nom Popcorn, located in the museum that offers a unique selection of popcorn flavors, including bacon cheddar and dill pickle.
3. Uptown Westerville
Uptown Westerville is a charming, quaint town located off Route 71. The town has preserved many of its historic buildings and offers a glimpse into the past. This college town has a lively spirit, and there is always something happening.
If you love shopping, Uptown Westerville is an excellent place to explore unique boutiques and gift shops. You can also immerse yourself in the town's history by taking a walking tour of the historic district.
The town also has fantastic dining options, with many diverse restaurant options to choose from. The street is lined with elegant Victorian buildings, which provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic dinner or a casual brunch.
Favorite food in the area: Experience the best waffles ever from the Westerville Grill, a family-owned business that has been serving up breakfast and lunch to the city's residents since 1958.
4. Cedar Point Amusement Park
Cedar Point is the ultimate stop for thrill-seekers. It is one of the most famous amusement parks in the US and has over 70 rides, including 17 roller coasters. This park attracts millions of visitors every year, making it an exciting addition to your road trip.
Cedar Point boasts ten roller coasters that stand at least 200 feet tall. The highlight of the park will be the Top Thrill Dragster, a coaster that speeds up to 120 mph, making it one of the fastest roller coasters in the world.
The park also has a wide range of entertainment options for all ages. You can catch a live show, enjoy a meal in any of the park's restaurants, or shop in any of the stores situated in the park.
Favorite food in the area: Every seasoned Cedar Point visitor knows the park's iconic food, A corndog on a stick is a must-try when you visit the park.
5. Belle Isle
Belle Isle is a small island located in Detroit, Michigan, off Route 75. The island is a beautiful, scenic destination that makes for an ideal surprise addition to your road trip. The island covers over 982 acres and features athletic facilities, a nature zoo, and conservatory.
Belle Isle offers something for everyone, from its excellent view of downtown to its picturesque nature walks. The island's famous Scott Fountain is a must-see with its vibrant colors that light up the night sky beautifully.
The island also has a beach, where you can swim, sunbathe or take a dip in the cool water. The beach is perfect for families, and the kids will love playing in the sand.
Favorite food in the area: You should not leave Detroit without trying the iconic Detroit-style pizza from Buddy's, a local favorite pizza spot that originated in the city.
Conclusion
A long road trip can be a tedious journey. However, consider taking the scenic route from Bridgeport, West Virginia, to Toledo, Ohio. The journey covers over 300 miles and takes approximately 8 hours. Therefore, it would be wise to enjoy the trip by taking unexpected stops at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Canton Classic Car Museum, Uptown Westerville, Cedar Point Amusement Park, and Belle Isle. These stops break the monotony of the long journey and provide exceptional, interactive experiences. When touring the stops, do not forget to grab a bite of the local cuisine to complete the experience. Your road trip experience is incomplete without taking an expedition in these five unique destinations.