Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois to Canton, Ohio

Have you ever embarked on a long road trip and found yourself wanting to take a break and explore some interesting places on the way? If you are embarking on a drive from Chicago, Illinois to Canton, Ohio, we have five unexpected places for you to stop and explore. This route covers around 400 miles of scenic roads and takes around six hours to drive. Let's explore some exciting places that can turn this long drive into an enjoyable one.

The Halfway Point: West Unity, OH

Before we dive into the five places, let's talk about the halfway point - West Unity, OH. This small village in Williams County is an excellent place to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat and explore some of the history of the region. The village's most famous landmark is the 1875 Chesapeake & Ohio Depot Museum. This beautiful building served the town for many years and has been converted into a museum. You can get a glimpse of small-town railroad life from back in the day.

1. Allen County Museum (Lima, OH)

The Allen County Museum in Lima, Ohio, is a hidden gem worth exploring. This museum showcases more than 14,000 artifacts covering over 200 years of history from Northern Ohio. From antique cars and trains to Native American relics, this museum has it all. Be sure to check out the farm exhibit, which includes a working engine powered by steam. This museum is a must-visit for history buffs.

Favorite food: If you're hungry after exploring the museum, head to Milano's for their fantastic Philly cheesesteak.

2. Grand Rapids (Ohio)

Located around 20 miles southwest of Toledo, Grand Rapids is a charming little village. The town was founded in 1833 and has a rich history of milling and agriculture. If you visit Grand Rapids, be sure to take a stroll down Main Street. You'll find a variety of shops and restaurants, including local favorite LaRoe's Restaurant. The town is also home to the historic Isaac Ludwig Mill, which dates back to the early 1800s. The mill is now a museum open for tours.

Favorite food: While in Grand Rapids, visit Cafe Marie's for their delicious homemade pies.

3. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)

Located a short distance from Akron, Ohio, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park covers over 33,000 acres and has a lot to offer visitors. You can explore the park's hiking trails, including the famous "Brandywine Gorge Trail," which is known for its waterfalls. The park also has a scenic railroad that takes visitors on a two-hour tour of the park. Be sure to check out the "Art in the Park" program, which features local artists showcasing their works.

Favorite food: If you're in Akron, visit the Diamond Grille for their fantastic steaks.

4. Marietta (Ohio)

Marietta is a charming town located on the banks of the Ohio River. It was founded in 1788 and is the oldest city in Ohio. The town is home to many historical sites, including the Campus Martius Museum and the Ohio River Museum. If you're a fan of live performances, be sure to check out the Peoples Bank Theatre. The theater, which opened in 1919, has been beautifully restored and hosts a wide variety of performances.

Favorite food: While in Marietta, visit The Galley for their fantastic seafood.

5. Amish Country (Ohio)

Our final stop on this journey is Amish Country, Ohio. Located in Northeast Ohio, Amish Country is a fascinating destination. If you visit, you'll find yourself transported back in time as you explore the rural countryside. You can take a tour of an Amish farm, check out a local farmer's market, and try some delicious handmade baked goods. Amish country is known for its handmade crafts, quilts, and furniture, so be sure to check out some of the local shops.

Favorite food: For a real taste of Amish cooking, visit Der Dutchman Restaurant for their famous fried chicken.

Conclusion

When planning a long road trip, it's easy to focus on the destination and forget about the journey. However, by taking the time to explore some of the exciting places along the way, you can turn a long drive into a fun adventure. So why not take a detour and explore these five unexpected places from Chicago to Canton. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, these places have something for everyone. So pack your bags, gas up the car, and hit the road. You never know what hidden gems you might discover.