Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Centerville to New Albany
If you're looking for a scenic road trip that will take you through charming towns and past picturesque landscapes, look no further than the drive from Centerville, Ohio to New Albany, Ohio. This drive takes about two and a half hours, if you drive straight through, but we highly recommend taking your time and stopping at some of the unexpected places that we've listed below.
Before we delve into the stops along the drive, we want to highlight the halfway point: London, OH. This small city is the perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and explore some local history. Located about 77 miles from Centerville and 30 miles from New Albany, London is a great place to break up your trip and discover some unexpected gems.
Now, let's get into the five unexpected places you should definitely stop and explore on your drive from Centerville to New Albany.
Stop #1: Yellow Springs (35 miles from Centerville)
Yellow Springs is a charming village that boasts multiple art galleries, restaurants, and shops. This eclectic town has a laid-back vibe that makes it a must-visit destination. Visitors can take a stroll down the main street to find unique art pieces and grab a coffee at a local café. But the real attraction here is Yellow Springs Brewery, which serves up some of the best craft beer in Ohio. Try the Captain Stardust Saison, a fruity and refreshing Belgian-style ale that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Yellow Springs.
Favorite food to eat: Vegan "chicken" sandwich from Spirited Goat Coffeehouse.
Stop #2: Buck Creek State Park (50 miles from Centerville)
Buck Creek State Park is a nature lover's paradise. Located near Springfield, Ohio, this park offers hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and plenty of picnic areas. Visitors can also rent a boat or kayak to explore the lake, or take a dip in the swimming beach. Buck Creek State Park is the perfect place to enjoy a sunny day and take in the gorgeous Ohio scenery.
Favorite food to eat: A picnic lunch with some freshly made sandwiches.
Stop #3: Cedar Bog Nature Preserve (60 miles from Centerville)
Cedar Bog Nature Preserve is a unique natural wonder that is well worth a visit. This registered National Natural Landmark features over 400 species of plants, many of which are rare or endangered. Visitors can walk along the mile-long Cedar Bog Boardwalk to observe the fascinating flora and fauna of this area. Make sure to bring a camera, as the views from the boardwalk are stunning.
Favorite food to eat: A chocolate chip cookie from The Flour Pot.
Stop #4: The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology (30 miles from New Albany)
Located in Newark, Ohio, The Works is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, art, and technology. This interactive museum features exhibits on everything from glassblowing to robotics. Visitors can even get hands-on experience with some of the exhibits, such as the ClayWorks pottery studio. The Works is the perfect place to learn about the history and culture of this area of Ohio.
Favorite food to eat: A coffee and pastry from City Limits Bakery.
Stop #5: Dawes Arboretum (20 miles from New Albany)
The Dawes Arboretum is a sprawling nature preserve that features over 2,000 acres of trees, gardens, and meadows. Visitors can take a guided tour of the arboretum to learn about the different plant species and their history. The Dawes Arboretum also offers various events and workshops throughout the year, so make sure to check their calendar before you visit.
Favorite food to eat: A picnic basket lunch from Granville Pantry.
Conclusion
This road trip from Centerville to New Albany is a great way to discover some of Ohio's hidden gems. From the charming town of Yellow Springs to the natural beauty of the Cedar Bog Nature Preserve, there are plenty of unexpected places to explore along the way. Don't forget to stop in London to grab a bite to eat and check out some local history. Whether you're a nature lover or a history buff, this road trip has something for everyone. So pack a picnic, hit the road, and embark on an adventure you won't soon forget.