Ready, Set, Road Trip: Best Things to Do from Broadview Heights, OH to Florence, KY

Are you looking for an exciting and adventurous road trip from Ohio to Kentucky? Look no further! Starting from Broadview Heights, Ohio and ending in Florence, Kentucky, this route will offer you breathtaking scenic views along with fascinating architectural and historical sites. Located at a distance of 253 miles, the road trip could take around 5 hours, including a recommended midway stop at Columbus, OH. Here are the top five must-visit places along the journey:

1. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, located in Powell, Ohio, is one of the most popular destinations on this route. Spread over 580 acres, the zoo houses over 10,000 animals including lions, tigers, and elephants. Apart from the animal exhibits, the zoo also features an impressive aquarium, a water park, and a golf course. With plenty of activities for all age groups, the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is a perfect stopover for people traveling with their families.

Interesting fact: Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has been named the best zoo in the U.S. by USA Travel Guide multiple times.

2. Hocking Hills State Park

Located in the Hocking Hills region of Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is a natural wonderland with stunning waterfalls, gorges, and sandstone cliffs. The park offers plenty of hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous, making it a great place for hikers and nature lovers. While visiting the Old Man's Cave, visitors can take a dip in the waters of the natural swimming pool, or explore the Devil's Bathtub, a sparkling stream that flows through a narrow gorge.

Interesting fact: There are six major hiking trails in the Hocking Hills State Park, totaling over 25 miles of hiking opportunities.

3. National Museum of the U.S. Air Force

Situated in Dayton, Ohio, the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. Visitors can see more than 360 aircraft and missiles on display, including Presidential aircraft, experimental prototypes, and rare artifacts from aviation history. The museum also hosts several interactive displays, allowing visitors to get a hands-on experience of what it's like to fly an aircraft.

Interesting fact: The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force is home to the first presidential jet, a Boeing 707 called the "SAM 26000" which served seven U.S. Presidents from Kennedy to Clinton.

4. Mammoth Cave National Park

Located in Kentucky, Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of underground passageways. Visitors can choose from a wide variety of cave tours, ranging from easy to difficult, with some tours allowing visitors to explore the otherworldly underground caves by kayak or lantern light. The park also offers plenty of above-ground activities like hiking and bird watching, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Interesting fact: Mammoth Cave National Park has a long history of human habitation, with evidence of Native American settlements dating back more than 6,000 years.

5. Kentucky Horse Park

If you're a horse lover, the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Kentucky is a must-visit destination. Spread over 1,200 acres, the park is home to several equestrian museums and showcases the beauty and agility of different breeds of horses. Visitors can take guided tours, watch horse shows and competitions, and even interact with the horses at the Kid's Barn. The park also offers horseback riding lessons for all skill levels.

Interesting fact: The Kentucky Horse Park is the only park in the world that is dedicated solely to man's relationship with the horse.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this road trip from Broadview Heights, Ohio to Florence, Kentucky, has plenty of exciting and diverse options for every type of traveler. From hiking and nature trails to military aviation museums, from zoos and aquariums to horse parks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The journey could be completed in around five hours, but taking time to explore all the stops and attractions could easily make it into a day-long adventure. So, pack your bags and fasten your seatbelts for an adrenaline-pumping road trip that you'll never forget.