Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chardon, Ohio and Eastlake, Ohio

Have you ever taken a road trip and wanted to stop at some unique places that you wouldn't typically find in a travel guide? If so, this article is for you! Here are five unexpected places to add to your itinerary on a drive from Chardon, Ohio to Eastlake, Ohio. The total drive time is approximately 30 minutes, but it's recommended to plan for a full day trip to fully indulge in each of these unique locations.

The Halfway Point: Chardon, OH (make this bold)

Chardon, Ohio, is a quaint, historic town located halfway between Chardon and Eastlake. This charming town is worth a stop for its beautiful downtown square, lined with local shops and restaurants. A stroll around the square allows visitors to take in the historic architecture and stunningly manicured gardens. Stop into Rick's Cafe for a bite to eat; their specialty is a signature lobster bisque that's a must-try.

1. The 1897 Hubbard House (make this bold)

The 1897 Hubbard House is a beautiful historic home located just outside of Chardon. The house was saved and restored by the Geauga County Historical Society, and now it functions as a museum. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the home and the town of Chardon. The tours also include a glimpse into the life of a wealthy family in the late 1800s. Don't miss the Hubbard House's tea room, where visitors can indulge in homemade baked goods while overlooking the home's stunning garden.

2. The Holden Arboretum (make this bold)

The Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, Ohio, is a must-visit for nature lovers. With over 3,500 acres of gardens and trails, visitors can spend an entire day exploring all the arboretum has to offer. The gardens offer a beautiful display of trees, flowers, and other plants organized by different regions of the world. Don't forget to check out the canopy walk and tower to get a birds-eye view of the gardens. Stop into the arboretum's café for lunch, where their signature dish is the chicken pesto wrap.

3. The Kellogg Family's Maple Syrup (make this bold)

The Kellogg Family's Maple Syrup farm, located in Burton, Ohio, offers visitors a chance to learn about the process of making real, pure maple syrup, and even taste some of the sweet liquid gold. The farm offers guided tours, and during the winter and early spring months, visitors can watch the process of tapping and collecting the sap that will eventually be turned into maple syrup. Before leaving, be sure to stock up on maple syrup, maple candy, and all kinds of maple-flavored goodies.

4. The World's Largest Rubber Stamp (make this bold)

The World's Largest Rubber Stamp, located in Cleveland, Ohio, is a quirky roadside attraction that can't be missed. The statue stands 56-feet tall and weighs 42,000 pounds. It's a tribute to Cleveland's role as a manufacturing center for rubber products. Visitors can snap a photo with the rubber stamp, and there's even a gift shop where visitors can buy small replicas and other fun souvenirs. Don't leave without grabbing a bite at their café, which offers a signature sandwich called "The Stamp."

5. The East Fourth Street District (make this bold)

The East Fourth Street District in downtown Cleveland, Ohio, is a must-visit for anyone looking for a great evening out. This street is lined with some of the city's best restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Visitors can indulge in all manner of cuisine, from fine dining to casual eats. Some of the area's best-known restaurants include Lola, which serves up unique, upscale American cuisine, and Butcher and the Brewer, which combines a full-service restaurant with a brewery. Don't miss a stroll through the area's charming alleyways, which are filled with street art and other fun surprises.

After exploring these five unique locations, you'll find that there's much more to see and do on a drive from Chardon, Ohio to Eastlake, Ohio than you would ever expect. From historic homes to beautiful gardens and quirky roadside attractions, this trip has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, gas up the car, and hit the road—you won't regret it!