Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brunswick, Ohio and Elyria, Ohio

If you are looking for a fun day trip from Brunswick, Ohio or Elyria, Ohio, there are surprising places to stop. With a total driving distance of approximately 40 miles, you can easily take this route with a few stops.

From Brunswick, drivers can take the winding rural roads through Medina County and Lorain County to Elyria. The route is scenic, with rolling hills and open fields, and passes through charming towns along the way. Depending on the number of stops and how long you spend at each, the drive will take two to three hours.

The Halfway Point: Valley City, OH

Before diving into the other stops, which are all unique and worth seeing, it's worth mentioning Valley City, OH. Located halfway between Brunswick and Elyria, this small town offers some fantastic scenery, especially in the fall when the leaves change color. It is also worth a stop for a meal at the Valley City Tavern, where you can enjoy delicious burgers and sandwiches.

1. Mill Hollow Park in Vermilion, OH
   Mill Hollow Park is a peaceful and serene location that is perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk. You can stroll along hiking trails and enjoy the beautiful scenery. A stream runs through the park, and during the summer months, visitors can swim in the clear water or take a kayak or canoe down the river. If you are looking for a romantic picnic location, this is the perfect place. And don't forget to grab a hot dog from the snack bar concession stand.

2. Bentleyville, OH
   Many people travel to Bentleyville to enjoy the Christmas lights during the holidays, but the town also boasts many fun things to do during the rest of the year. Bentleyville's quaint downtown features a range of unique shops offering an array of handcrafted items, vintage finds, and boutique fashion. If you have a sweet tooth, stop in at DanRicks Chocolate, a locally owned and operated chocolate shop that's been in business for over 50 years. Their chocolate-covered pretzels are a must-try.

3. The Lorain Lighthouse in Lorain, OH
   The Lorain Lighthouse is one of the most scenic destinations along the Lake Erie coast. The lighthouse itself is an iconic landmark in Lorain, and visitors are welcome to climb to the top to enjoy the stunning views of Lake Erie and the surrounding area. The lighthouse also has an interesting history, and visitors can learn about the lives of lighthouse keepers at the on-site museum. For a tasty treat, head to Jackalope Lakeside, a seafood restaurant that boasts some of the best clam chowder you'll ever taste.

4. Huntington Beach in Bay Village, OH
   If you want to spend some time on the beach, Huntington Beach is the perfect location. The beach offers plenty of sand and water for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. You can also rent kayaks and paddleboards, or visit the nearby marina and fish directly in the lake. After your beach activities, stop in at Mojo's Coffee and More for a cup of coffee and a freshly made pastry.

5. The Shipyards in Lorain, OH
   The Shipyards is an unexpected destination along this route, but is well worth a visit. This historic area was once home to several shipyards and was crucial to the growth and success of Lorain. Today, visitors can take a self-guided tour of the shipyard grounds, which include several industrial buildings, warehouses, and docks. While in the area, grab a bite to eat at Smitty's Place, a local diner that serves up fantastic breakfast food all day long.

Conclusion

This pleasant, winding route is packed with fun and unusual stops. Whether you are looking for a romantic picnic spot, a scenic lighthouse, or a beach to soak up some sun, this journey has something for everyone. Make sure to stop at each destination for a meal or a snack; the eateries along the way are as unique and delightful as each destination. With so much to see and do, you won't regret taking this trip!