Top Five Popular Attractions between Chattanooga, Tennessee and Lebanon, Ohio
If you're looking for a road trip that combines the beauty of nature with the history of the American Midwest, look no further than the stretch of road between Chattanooga, Tennessee and Lebanon, Ohio. Here are the top five attractions you don't want to miss.
The Route and Halfway Point: Corbin, KY
The drive from Chattanooga to Lebanon is just under 400 miles, but there's plenty to see and do along the way. One great halfway point is Corbin, KY, the birthplace of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Stop at the Harland Sanders Cafe and Museum to learn about the life of the man who started it all, and enjoy some finger-lickin' good chicken while you're at it.
Top Five Places to See
1. Cumberland Falls State Park
Cumberland Falls is known as the "Niagara of the South," and it's not hard to see why. This stunning waterfall drops 68 feet into the Cumberland River, and even glows a rainbow during a full moon. Aside from the falls, visitors can hike, fish, or even go rafting.
2. Mammoth Cave National Park
Mammoth Cave is the longest known cave system in the world, with over 400 miles of explored passages. Take a guided tour to see the stunning stalactites and stalagmites, or try your hand at spelunking. Above ground, you'll find hiking trails and even a zipline.
3. The National Corvette Museum
Car enthusiasts won't want to miss the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, KY. Here, you can see nearly every Corvette model ever made, including some one-of-a-kind prototypes. You can even take a tour of the nearby Corvette factory, where the cars are still made today.
4. Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
Housed in a stunning Art Deco train station, the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal offers a fascinating look at the history of the city and the region. Highlights include an interactive children's museum, a natural history museum, and a restored 1930s railcar.
5. Kings Island Amusement Park
No road trip is complete without a little bit of fun, and Kings Island Amusement Park in Mason, OH fits the bill. With over 100 rides and attractions, including 14 roller coasters, there's something here for everyone. Don't miss the stunning views from the top of the Eiffel Tower replica.
Best Route for This Trip
To make the most of your trip, start in Chattanooga and head north on I-75. Stop in Corbin for lunch and a KFC history lesson, then continue on to Cumberland Falls State Park for some outdoor fun. From there, head to Mammoth Cave for a cave tour and some above-ground activities. Next, make your way to Bowling Green for the National Corvette Museum, then up to Cincinnati for some educational fun at Union Terminal. Finally, end your trip with a bang at Kings Island before making your way to Lebanon. Happy travels!