A Journey through Cincinnati and Middletown
Looking for a fun road trip to explore hidden gems and new attractions? Look no further than this trip through Cincinnati, Ohio, and Middletown, Ohio! There are plenty of exciting things to see and do in this area, and we’ve narrowed down the top five places to visit.
Exploring Sharonville, OH
This buzzing Northern Cincinnati neighborhood is the midpoint between Cincinnati and Middletown, making it an optimal pit-stop for travelers. Sharonville is home to the iconic Sharon Woods Park - a perfect destination for a family picnic or hike in the woods. The 730-acre park has several trails that provide mesmerizing views of the lake, a playground, a golf course, and scenic picnic areas. The park is also known for hosting outdoor concerts and annual holiday events, attracting a diverse crowd. Restaurants like Raja India, Lulu's Sweet Bites, and Mio's Pizzeria offer local flavors with great ambiance. A quick stroll down the Main Street reveals quaint boutiques and antique shops.
Top Five Popular Attractions
1. Cincinnati Zoo
Founded in 1873, the Cincinnati Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States and boasts over 500 exotic species spread across 75 acres of land. The zoo's conservation efforts and animal care are commendable and well-known. Visitors can get up close and personal with rare and endangered animals like African Lions, Red Pandas, Snow Leopards, Gorillas, reptiles, and various birds. The zoo is active year-round, with seasonal events like Zoo Brew, Zoo La La, and the famous Cincinnati Zoo Festival of Lights during the holiday season.
2. Kings Island
Thrill-seekers and amusement park lovers, we have the perfect place for you! Kings Island is a vast amusement and water park with over 100 rides, including the world's longest wooden coaster and the first ever suspended rollercoaster. Visitors can indulge in live shows, concerts, games, carnival treats, a water park with wave pools, lazy rivers, and water slides. The park offers various annual passes and a Fast Lane option to skip the long lines.
3. Miami University Art Museum
Located in the scenic Oxford Ohio, the Miami University Art Museum boasts a stunning collection of American and international artwork. The museum has vast exhibits of ancient artifacts, contemporary artwork, ceramics, glass, photographs, and sculptures that showcase artists like Toulouse-Lautrec, Picasso, and Warhol. The museum hosts various events like lectures, workshops, and free tours for visitors.
4. Jungle Jim’s International Market
This grocery store is not your ordinary one. Jungle Jim's International Market is an enormous international supermarket with a massive selection of items from around the world. Shoppers can find everything from exotic fruits, imported cheeses, a 60-feet aisle of candy, a whiskey bar, an on-site bakery, and fresh seafood from around the planet. Jungle Jim also features an indoor jungle and animatronic store mascot.
5. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum
Located in Hamilton Ohio, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum is a 300-acre park filled with contemporary art and beautiful lakes. Visitors can take a six-mile scenic drive, bike or hike to explore the outdoor sculptures exhibit, which features over 60 pieces. The museum also offers indoor exhibits, art classes, and these fantastic public events like Christmas light show, concerts, and food festivals.
Conclusion
From the beauty of Sharon Woods Park to the mesmerizing art at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum, the top five attractions to visit on a trip through Cincinnati and Middletown will serve as an inspiration for the ultimate adventure. These fascinating places offer something for everyone, whether you are an animal lover, an art enthusiast, or a thrill-seeker. You can take the I-75 route, which is a 54-mile journey, and it'll take you approximately an hour to reach Middletown. If you plan to spend more time on the route or want to cover other nearby towns, you can explore cities like Hamilton, Oxford, or Lebanon. Don't miss out on these must-visit attractions, book your trip, and embark on an unforgettable journey today!