Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brookville, Ohio and Marion, Ohio
Ohio is a state that is known for its beautiful and scenic drives. The route from Brookville to Marion is one of the most breathtaking routes and offers drivers an opportunity to experience some of Ohio's hidden gems. In this article, we will highlight five unexpected places to stop on this drive. The journey is approximately 115 miles and takes around two and a half hours, but with these five stops, it's sure to be a memorable journey.
Halfway Point: Mechanicsburg, OH
After driving for about an hour, drivers will reach Mechanicsburg, OH. This charming small town is the perfect place to stretch your legs, grab some food and take a break. Mechanicsburg has a unique combination of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Take a walk around the town and explore some of the historic buildings, including the opera house, library, and post office, before grabbing a bite to eat.
Kiser Lake State Park: Located just outside of St. Paris, Kiser Lake State Park is a beautiful place to visit. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and camping. One of the main attractions of the park is the lake itself, which covers over 400 acres. Visitors can take a scenic drive around the lake or take a walk along the shoreline to enjoy the stunning views. Favorite food: A picnic lunch from home or Subway in nearby St. Paris.
Hartman Rock Garden: The Hartman Rock Garden in Springfield is a unique and fascinating attraction that is definitely worth a stop. This garden is made entirely from concrete by a local resident, Ben Hartman. The garden features miniature buildings, bridges, and waterfalls, all made from ordinary materials such as rocks, marbles, and broken glass. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the garden and learn about the history of this unusual attraction. Favorite food: Donut from the old fashioned Buckeye Bakery in Springfield.
Piatt Castles: Located in West Liberty, the Piatt Castles are a beautiful historic attraction that offers visitors a glimpse of Victorian life in Ohio. The castle complex consists of two buildings, Mac-A-Cheek Castle and Mac-O-Chee Castle, both built in the late 1800s by the Piatt family. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castles and learn about the fascinating history of the Piatt family and their legacy. Favorite food: Buckeye Candy from Marie's Candies in West Liberty.
Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center: Located on the campus of Bluffton University, the Lion and Lamb Peace Arts Center is a unique nonprofit organization that promotes peace, cross-cultural understanding, and social justice. The center hosts exhibitions, lectures, and workshops that explore the role of the arts in promoting peace and social change. Visitors can tour the center's galleries and learn about the role of art in building a better world. Favorite food: Groovin' Grilled Cheese from The Mustard Seed Café in Bluffton.
Marion Palace Theatre: The Marion Palace Theatre is a beautiful historic theater in downtown Marion. The theater was built in the 1920s and has been restored to its original glory. The theater hosts a variety of events, including live music, movies, and plays. Visitors can take a tour of the theater and learn about its history and restoration. Favorite food: Popcorn from the theater's concession stand.
Conclusion
The drive from Brookville to Marion is a scenic and charming journey, but it is made even better by stopping at these five unexpected places. From the beautiful Kiser Lake State Park to the fascinating Hartman Rock Garden, these stops are sure to provide an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a history buff or appreciate the beauty of nature, there is something for everyone on this drive. So, the next time you are looking for a scenic road trip, consider taking the journey from Brookville to Marion and stopping at these five hidden gems along the way.