A Road Trip from Broadview Heights to Willoughby: A Guide to the Best Stops Along the Way
Looking for a fun road trip? Consider driving from Broadview Heights to Willoughby and explore some of Ohio's cultural landmarks and scenic locations.
Did you know that Ohio is home to 74 state parks, and nine out of ten Ohioans live within a half-hour drive of one of these parks? So, put on some comfortable shoes, and let's discover some of the gems waiting for you on this road trip.
If you're halfway through your journey, you'll find Cleveland, Ohio, also known as the Rock and Roll Capital of the World, a cultural hub with vibrant and diverse communities.
The drive from Broadview Heights to Willoughby takes approximately 25 minutes without traffic. This drive covers roughly 20 miles. However, with so much to see and enjoy, it's best to plan for a day trip rather than just a quick drive.
Here are the top five stops to make along the way:
1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a stunning, 33,000-acre park located between Akron and Cleveland. The park is well-known for the Cuyahoga River, the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, and the Brandywine and Bridal Veil Falls.
If you love hiking, head to the Ledges Trail, which offers stunning views of the Ohio and Erie Canal. You could go for a bike ride and enjoy Ohio's scenic byways, "The River“ and "The Canal," which wind through the park. During the Fall colors peak, the park turns into a red and yellow paradise for travelers. Don't miss your chance to fall in love with Ohio's natural beauty.
2. Lake Erie Bluffs
Located a few miles east of Cleveland, the Lake Erie Bluffs is a 600-acre Erie County Metropark that spans over 1.25 miles along the shoreline. The Bluffs is a great place to stretch your legs, relax take in the stunning views.
Hike the trails, feel the wind brush through your hair, watch some of Lake Erie's most stunning bird species, and enjoy the scenery. If you love sunsets, Lake Erie Bluffs is the perfect place to end your day.
3. James A. Garfield National Historic Site
The James A. Garfield National Historic Site is located in Mentor, Ohio. The site is the former home of President James A. Garfield, and it provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about his life, career, and untimely death.
Visitors can take a tour and visit the restored Garfield home. You can also see artifacts that tell the story of his life, or you can go on a guided tour of the cemetery and pay your respects at his final resting place.
4. Holden Arboretum
If you're a nature or outdoor lover, the Holden Arboretum is a perfect spot to visit. This 3600-acre wildlife sanctuary in Kirtland, Ohio, is one of the largest arboreta in the United States.
It's home to over 10,000 living plants, dozens of gardens, historic collections, and vast forests. Take a walk on the "Murch Canopy Walk," which is a suspension bridge that will take you up and above the trees, 65 feet in the air. Visitors can also enjoy the views from the visitor center tower, a seven-story structure with incredible views over Lake Erie.
5. Great Lakes Mall
On the way to your final destination, you can make a stop at the Great Lakes Mall, the largest shopping center in the area. The mall has over 100 retailers, so you can find almost anything you need. You can grab lunch at one of the many restaurants or watch a movie in the cinema. With options such as Dave & Buster's, you could even have some fun playing arcade games.
Point of Interest:
At stop #2, Lake Erie Bluffs, make sure to take a walk on Glory Beach. You could go beachcombing or even whale-watching. During the spring migration, you could spot Peregrine Falcons, Bald Eagles, and Ospreys.
At stop #3, James A. Garfield National Historic Site, make sure to stop at the visitor center bookstore. They have a wide selection of books, souvenirs, art, and educational materials.
In Holden Arboretum, stop by the "Emerald Necklace Inn," a lovely bed and breakfast nearby. It's one of the top-rated inns in Ohio, and it offers an extensive breakfast buffet, comfortable rooms, and scenic views of nature.
In the Great Lakes Mall, make sure you visit the Lego Store. The store has statues of characters, towering buildings, a play area, and a Wall of Bricks. You can also buy unique Lego sets and other Lego-themed items.
Conclusion:
In summary, a day trip from Broadview Heights to Willoughby is a perfect way to explore Ohio's beauty and culture. You'll also enjoy 74 State Parks and numerous metropolitan parks throughout the state. So, come, explore, and get to know the true heart of Ohio. This journey could take you anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on how much time you spend in each stop. But make sure to bring your sense of adventure because you never know what you will discover in Ohio!