Road Trip from Brook Park to New Philadelphia: Discovering Ohio’s Best Museums, Parks, and Landmarks
Are you looking for a weekend getaway that combines history, nature and culture? Look no further than Ohio’s hidden gems. Start your journey from Brook Park, Ohio and head down to New Philadelphia, Ohio, exploring some of the best museums, parks, and landmarks along the way.
An interesting fact about the road trip
Did you know that Ohio’s State Route 21, which connects Brook Park to New Philadelphia, was once used as a vital transportation route for Native Americans, who used it to trade goods and services? Today, this iconic road is perfect for discovering some of Ohio's finest sights.
A halfway point of Akron, Ohio
As you travel down Ohio’s State Route 21, don’t miss the chance to break up your journey by visiting Akron, Ohio – about halfway between Brook Park and New Philadelphia. The city has a thriving art and culture scene and is home to numerous parks, museums, and family-friendly attractions perfect for a pit-stop.
The length of the trip
The journey will take you around 90 minutes without stops, although we recommend that you take your time and enjoy the journey at your own pace. There are plenty of places to pull over, stretch your legs, and admire the stunning scenery.
The top five places to visit
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Start your road trip with a visit to one of Ohio’s most beautiful natural parks. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the few national parks located near an urban area, offering an unforgettable outdoor experience. Take a hike, dive into nature, and discover miles of trails as you admire waterfalls, river gorges, and stunning views.
Point of interest: Brandywine Falls is one of the park's star attractions, offering a 65-foot drop, surrounded by lush vegetation.
- Akron Art Museum – Art lovers won't want to miss the Akron Art Museum located in the heart of downtown Akron. This extraordinary museum features contemporary art exhibits from across the globe and contains works from some of the most prominent artists of the 20th century, including Warhol, Lichtenstein, and Picasso.
Point of interest: The Akron Art Museum is reached by crossing the John S. Knight Center walkway, offering panoramic views of Akron's vibrant downtown districts.
- Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens – Looking for a relaxing and scenic stop? Don't hesitate to visit Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, an impressive estate that was once home to the Seiberling family. Situated in Akron, this historic landmark is a must-see when in Ohio. You will be stunned by the lavish 64,500 square-foot mansion, the beautiful landscaped gardens, and the unique collections of Art Nouveau decor lining the walls.
Point of interest: The Butterfly habitat at the estate provides a peaceful way to relax, with over 60 species of butterflies to see at any given time.
- Pro Football Hall of Fame – Calling all sports enthusiasts! The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, is one of the best-known sports museums in the country. This attraction is devoted to capturing the rich history of football in America, featuring multimedia exhibits, interactive experiences, and personal stories of the legends of the game.
Point of interest: Visitors can rediscover the magic of the Super Bowl highlighted by an exhibit of every Super Bowl ring ever made.
- Dennison Railroad Depot Museum – Your final stop is the Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, which offers a captivating look into railroad history. Housed in a beautifully preserved 1873 train depot, this museum features fascinating exhibits such as vintage photos, memorabilia, and a restored steam engine.
Point of interest: Guests are invited to take a ride on the historic handcar, traveling like generations of railroad workers before you.
A point of interest recommendation with each stop
Each of these destinations has something unique to offer, and here's a quick overview of a point of interest that we recommend for each stop:
Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Hike the iconic 13.5-mile Towpath Trail, follow the Beaver Marsh Trail, or go for a scenic train ride.
Akron Art Museum – Peer out the Bubble Window. A popular photo-opportunity on the museum's roof deck.
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens – Participate in interactive shows at the Corbin Conservatory; even the kids will love it!
Pro Football Hall of Fame – Don't miss the locker room exhibit for an immersive experience of the sport.
Dennison Railroad Depot Museum – Take a stroll through the museum's impressive gardens, home to thousands of beautiful flowers.
A conclusion about the trip
In conclusion, embarking on a road trip from Brook Park to New Philadelphia to explore Ohio's finest museums, parks, and landmarks is full of adventure and fun. This trip covers over 100 miles, but it doesn't feel overwhelming thanks to the many stops you can make along the way. Whether you love natural parks, art exhibitions, or sports, there is something for everyone to enjoy here. So, all that remains is to start packing your bags, hit the road, and enjoy Ohio's magical sights.