Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brunswick, OH to Maple Heights, OH

Are you looking for places to add on your next road trip itinerary? Traveling can be overwhelming, but sometimes the best spots are the hidden gems along the way. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey from Brunswick to Maple Heights, Ohio, and explore five unexpected places to stop.

The total distance between these two places is around 27 miles and a drive time of approximately 37 minutes without traffic. So, let's get started!

Cleveland, OH - The Halfway Point

Before we share the five unexpected places, we suggest making a stop in the great city of Cleveland. Not only is it the halfway point between the two Ohio cities, but it is also home to plenty of attractions.

A popular attraction in Cleveland is the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, where visitors can learn about the history of rock and roll and see iconic artifacts from famous musicians. Make sure you also check out the Cleveland Museum of Art, with its vast collection of artwork from around the world, as well as the West Side Market, which offers a wide range of foods, from baked goods to fresh seafood. There’s no shortage of things to see in Cleveland, making it an excellent spot to break up your drive.

1. The Hinckley Reservation

One of the most beautiful spots to visit is the Hinckley Reservation, located northeast of Brunswick. It is a place of unique natural beauty, spanning almost 2,500 acres. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and even fishing in the ponds and streams. The park also features a historic grist mill, which operated from the 1800s up until the 1920s.

Be sure to try the Hinckley’s famous Buzzard Day pancake breakfast served in the reservation’s Ledges Shelter. These pancakes are made with buckwheat flour and are said to be delicious.

2. Akron Zoo

Next stop, the Akron Zoo, located roughly 16 miles southeast of Hinckley Reservation. It might seem unusual to visit a zoo, but the Akron Zoo isn't your average zoo. It features over 700 animals from all over the world, including endangered species. The zoo also offers a wide range of activities such as animal encounters and a zip line. It's a perfect and different place to stop for animal lovers.

For a bite to eat, try the Lions Pride Café in the zoo. The menu offers traditional American fare, including hot dogs, hamburgers, and chicken fingers.

3. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

If you continue east from the Akron Zoo for another 18 miles, you will reach the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. It is an area of spectacular beauty, where visitors can go hiking, biking, fishing, and even take a scenic train ride. The park also offers many birdwatching opportunities, so be sure to bring your binoculars.

For lunch, stop by the Ohio & Erie Canalway Visitor Center nearby. They offer boxed lunches from Canal Grille to take into the park, featuring sandwiches, salads, and more.

4. The James A. Garfield National Historic Site

Our next destination is the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, located about 12 miles north of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This site is the former home of the 20th President of the United States, James A. Garfield, which has been restored to its 1880s-era splendor.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the house and learn about Garfield and his family's history. The property includes a visitor center where you can watch a short film about Garfield's life. The site also hosts special events throughout the year, including the "Music in the Lawn" series during the summer months.

For a snack, visit the nearby Sweet Peace Bakery and Café, which offers a wide range of pastries, sandwiches, and coffee, perfect for a quick break.

5. Little Italy

Last but not least, we recommend stopping in Little Italy, Cleveland. This neighborhood is just a few miles from Maple Heights and is known for its authentic Italian restaurants, cafes, and shopping.

Stroll through the charming streets and check out the many shops selling handmade ceramics and glassware. Little Italy is a foodie's paradise, lined with Italian restaurants serving all kinds of dishes, including pasta, pizza, and gelato.

Try out the classic Italian dishes at Mia Bella, including their signature dish, spaghetti and meatballs, and their authentic margherita pizza.

Conclusion

Traveling to new places is a great way to create memories, learn new things, and have fun. From the Hinckley Reservation to Little Italy, these five destinations are just a small portion of what Ohio has to offer. Don't be afraid to take a detour and explore these hidden gems. Life is too short to take the same boring route every time!