Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cincinnati, Ohio and Fayetteville, West Virginia
Ohio and West Virginia provide road trippers with a wealth of scenic drives and natural wonders worth exploring. This cross-state trip from Cincinnati, Ohio, and Fayetteville, West Virginia, takes travelers on a journey of approximately 280 miles. Along the way, visitors will encounter natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural landmarks in both states. The halfway point of the trip is Ashland, KY, adding a unique touch to the journey.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Hocking Hills State Park
Hocking Hills State Park in Ohio is a natural playground and a must-see destination for anyone on a road trip. The park boasts over 25 miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, rock formations, and caves, making it an excellent spot for outdoor fun. The highlight of the park is the Old Man's Cave, which has a collection of waterfalls, cliffs, rock formations, and sandstone caves. The Hocking Hills is the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts who wish to hike, paddle or bird-watch.
Interesting Fact
In 1923, Hocking Hills State Park was named a state park, making it Ohio's oldest state park.
2. National Museum of the US Air Force
The National Museum of the US Air Force is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. Located in Dayton, Ohio, the museum has over 340 aircraft and missiles on display, including presidential planes, airplanes used in World War I and II, and the X-15. The museum is a great addition to any trip, regardless of whether visitors are interested in aviation or not.
Interesting Fact
The National Museum of the US Air Force has over 1 million square feet of exhibit space.
3. New River Gorge Bridge
As one of the longest single-arch bridge choices in world, New River Gorge Bridge stands out as one of West Virginia's iconic landmarks. The bridge is 876 feet high and stretches 3030 feet across the New River Gorge. The height of the bridge makes it a popular spot for BASE jumpers looking for an adrenaline rush. Visitors may hike the Nan Miller Trail and get a spectacular view of the bridge from the overlook at Endless Wall.
Interesting Fact
The New River Gorge Bridge is an engineering marvel, and it took only two years and 37 million dollars (equivalent to $240 million today) to complete it.
4. Tamarack
Tamarack is West Virginia's cultural center, located just off I-64 in Beckley, WV. Tamarack has a mountain art gallery, food hall and shopping area featuring handmade items that represent West Virginia's diverse cultures. Visitors can shop for souvenirs, crafts, jewelry, and food made by West Virginia artisans. It is the perfect spot to stretch the legs and purchase a unique item to remember the trip.
Interesting Fact
Tamarack is a Coal Miner’s Daughter's museum, a drama movie directed by Michael Apted, and featuring Sissy Spacek.
5. Fayetteville
Fayetteville, WV, is a charming town and the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts. The town is famous for whitewater rafting, hiking, climbing, and fishing. Also, visitors will find excellent restaurants along the town's main street, Court Street, and unique shops worth browsing. The town has an inviting small-town vibe and is a great place to rest after a day of hiking or exploring.
Interesting Fact
Fayette County in West Virginia was once the home to more than 50 coal mines that supplied the country with coal during WWII.
Conclusion
The journey from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Fayetteville, WV, is a memorable experience that offers travelers with opportunities to see some of America's great landscapes and visit unique sites. The trip route covers over 280 miles and takes approximately five hours, but the stops along the way makes it worth it. From scenic parks to cultural landmarks and historic relics, the trip has something for everyone to explore.