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

Driving from Chardon to Troy can be a long and tiresome journey. However, with careful stops along the way, travelers can discover unexpected treasures within Ohio. This route, spanning 167 miles, takes around three hours and twenty minutes to complete, depending on traffic conditions. The following five places make for great stopovers, long or short, to break up the journey and enjoy Ohio's hidden gems.

The Halfway Point: Mount Gilead, OH

Before discussing the top five places to stopover on the Chardon and Troy drive, you might want to know about the halfway point: Mount Gilead, OH. This cozy little village offers all the necessities travelers might need to rest and recharge.

Mount Gilead is a small bucolic town located in the heart of Ohio. It has a rich historical and cultural heritage, which visitors can experience firsthand. The sleepy, quiet town has everything a traveler requires; clean restrooms, interesting attractions, and of course, mouthwatering food. Take a break from driving and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming town. The quiet surroundings and the fascinating attractions will leave you feeling refreshed.

1. Muddy Creek Saloon

Upon entering Muddy Creek Saloon, you’ll feel like you just stepped into a Wild West saloon. The walls are adorned with horseshoe sand country music is always playing. The smell of delicious food wafts from the kitchen.

Muddy Creek Saloon is a great place to stop and enjoy a drink or a meal. The menu is a compilation of classic and contemporary American cuisine. Everything is delicious, but you have to try the chili. It's a must-have. Made from scratch, this hearty dish is perfectly seasoned and full of beef, beans, and tomatoes.

2. Beulah Park

After leaving Mount Gilead, why not stopover at Beulah Park? Horse racing is a favorite pastime for many Ohioans, and Beulah Park is the perfect place to experience it. Located in Grove City, Ohio, this well-kept racecourse is an elegant and charming hideaway.

Beulah Park is famous for its fantastic horse racing events. The exhilarating races, lively crowds, and fantastic food make for an unforgettable experience. Make sure you try the clubhouse restaurant's famous "Beulah Burger." It's a juicy burger piled high with toppings and is simply delicious.

3. The Ohio Caverns

Next on the list is the Ohio Caverns, the most extensive known cave system in Ohio. Located in West Liberty, Ohio Caverns is the perfect stopover for anyone interested in geological wonders and natural history.

The tour through the Ohio Caverns is both educational and exciting. Visitors will enjoy an underground adventure, exploring rooms with names such as Crystal King, Palace of the Gods, and the Big Room. You might even catch a glimpse of the elusive cave-dwelling bat. Before leaving, make sure to grab a slice of pie at the on-site restaurant. The fruit pies are the customer's favorite.

4. Mad River Mountain

The fourth place on our list is Mad River Mountain, located in Zanesfield, Ohio. Whether you're a skier or snowboarder, Mad River Mountain is worth a stop during the winter season.

Mad River Mountain is Ohio's largest ski resort, offering a wide range of winter activities. Whether you're a novice skier or a seasoned pro, they have trails for everyone. When you've finished skiing, stop by the award-winning restaurant for a bowl of Mad River Chili. It's packed with flavorful meat, beans, and tomatoes, making it the perfect snack for a chilly day.

5. Springfield Museum of Art

Last but not least is the Springfield Museum of Art. Located in Springfield, Ohio, the museum is a great stopover for art lovers or anyone who appreciates culture.

The Springfield Museum of Art boasts a beautiful collection of American and European art and decorative art. Visitors can enjoy a day exploring the various galleries and exhibits. After exploring, head over to Seasons Bistro for lunch. Try the Cobb Salad, it's loaded with fresh greens, hard-boiled eggs, crispy bacon, tomatoes, and chicken.

Conclusion

Traveling from Chardon to Troy can be a long and monotonous drive, but it doesn't have to be. With so many unexpected places to visit, there's no reason to stick to the main highways and bypass the hidden gems of Ohio. Whether you're hungry, curious, or just want to stretch your legs, Ohio offers beautiful, unique, and fascinating attractions. Don't hesitate to take this trip; your stomach, mind, and soul will thank you.