Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cincinnati, Ohio and Athens, Ohio
Cincinnati and Athens are two of the most vibrant cities in Ohio, but sometimes the best way to experience the beauty of a state is through a good old-fashioned road trip. The journey from Cincinnati to Athens might take a little over 2 hours, but it is worth every minute. This route is a fantastic opportunity to explore the small towns and hidden gems of Ohio. Here are our top 5 unexpected places to stop on your trip.
Peebles, OH - Halfway Point
Peebles is the ideal midway point for anyone traveling from Cincinnati to Athens. This charming little village offers the perfect opportunity to stretch the legs and take a break from driving. One of Peebles's must-see attractions is the Edge of Appalachia Preserve. It's the largest privately-owned nature preserve system in Ohio and home to over 100 rare or endangered species, including the Cerulean warbler, one of the most endangered bird species in North America. The trail system in the preserve is well maintained and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding Appalachian forest.
While in Peebles, be sure to try the town's most famous dish, the "Smothered Burrito." These delicious Mexican-inspired burritos are stuffed to the brim with beans, cheese, and beef, and smothered in red chili sauce. The perfect food for a cold winter day or as a comfort food indulgence.
1. Chillicothe, OH - Oh Historic Downtown!
Chillicothe is a hidden gem located in the heart of Ohio. This vibrant city boasts historic architecture, a vibrant arts scene, and exciting outdoor adventures. There are plenty of stores and boutiques to explore, and the town is home to the Majestic Theatre, a beautiful art deco theatre, which offers an array of performances throughout the year.
One reason to visit Chillicothe is to try the delicious traditional Dogwood Festival Country Ham Sandwich. This sandwich has been a staple of the festival for over 60 years and continues to be served every year during the festival. Served on a soft bun with a generous serving of country ham, add mustard, pickles and you have a sandwich that you will crave.
2. Athens, OH - Quirky College Town
Athens is best known for being home to Ohio University—a vibrant, quirky college town that offers a unique experience and atmosphere. A visit to Athens is the perfect time to unwind and explore the beautiful town's spectacular beauty. The town has breathtaking natural attractions, including the Athens Farmers Market, The Dairy Barn Art Center, and the Ohio University Museum of Art.
To properly experience the college town vibes, visitors must try the famous Court Street Diner's Hash Browns. This diner has been serving the best hash browns for over 60 years. The perfect golden hash browns are served with your choice of toppings, including sausage gravy, chili cheese, and more.
3. Lancaster, OH - Amercian History
Lancaster is a quaint town located between Cincinnati and Athens. The National Museum of the United States Air Force, one of the most extensive collections of military aircraft in the world, is located nearby. Visitors can explore the rich history of the Air Force and witness the exhibits, including missile galleries, aviation technologies, and life-size replica models.
When traveling through Lancaster, visitors must try the town's famous Diamond Jim's Pecan pie. The pie has a buttery crust and is filled with sweet, crunchy pecans.
4. Shawnee, OH - in Wayne National Forest
Shawnee, Ohio, is a charming little village located in Wayne National Forest. The forest is an oasis of natural tranquility and beauty. The town is buzzing with quirky activities and great recreational opportunities, including horseback riding, fishing, and hiking.
When visiting Shawnee, food lovers should make it a priority to taste the Buffalo chicken dip at The Gorge. This restaurant offers a rustic atmosphere and the perfect spot to enjoy the delicious dip, with the traditional crispy crunch of veggie sticks.
5. Hocking Hills, OH - Ohio's oasis
Located minutes from Athens, Hocking Hills has been hailed as Ohio's oasis, a sprawling natural landscape filled with lush pine forests and dramatic rock formations. The town is home to vast, awe-inspiring landscapes, perfect for long hikes and peaceful escapes.
Visitors mustn't leave Hocking Hills without trying the famous blueberry donuts from Hocking Hills Diner. This diner has been a go-to spot for the town's locals for years, and these delicious donuts are reason enough to visit.
In Conclusion
Driving from Cincinnati to Athens might be a quick trip, but there's no need to rush through the small towns dotted along the route. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and discover the hidden treasures of Ohio's small towns and villages. From the Edge of Appalachia Preserve in Peebles to the Blueberry donuts in Hocking Hills, there's so much more to see on this Ohioan road trip.