The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cincinnati, Ohio to Park Ridge, Illinois

Overview

As summer approaches and the weather warms up, many people are looking for fun, safe activities to enjoy with their families. One great option is to hit the road for a road trip from Cincinnati, Ohio to Park Ridge, Illinois. This route offers a variety of exciting and memorable stops along the way, including the halfway point of West Lafayette, IN.

Top Five Things to Do

Explore the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is a must-visit destination for any road trip from Cincinnati. With over 500 animal species and 3,000 plant species, visitors can explore and learn about the incredible diversity of life on Earth. Whether it's the famous Fiona the hippo or the beautiful gardens, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this iconic attraction.

Interesting fact: The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is the second-oldest zoo in the United States, opening in 1875.

Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

For those who love cars and racing, a visit to the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway is a must. As the home of the prestigious Indianapolis 500, visitors can soak in the history and excitement of this legendary racing venue. From the Hall of Fame Museum to the Yard of Bricks, there's no shortage of thrilling experiences at this historic track.

Interesting fact: The Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the largest sports venue in the world, with a seating capacity of over 250,000.

Experience the Purdue University Campus

Located in West Lafayette, IN, the Purdue University campus is a beautiful and vibrant stop on the road trip route. Visitors can take a stroll through the picturesque campus, visit the Purdue Memorial Union, or explore the impressive facilities of this renowned university.

Interesting fact: Purdue University is home to 6,800 acres of farmland, making it one of the largest agriculture-focused universities in the United States.

Tour the Chicago Botanic Garden

As the road trip nears its destination, a visit to the Chicago Botanic Garden is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Midwest. With 27 gardens and four natural areas, visitors can explore a stunning array of plant life and landscape designs. From the serene Japanese garden to the vibrant English walled garden, there's no shortage of beauty to discover at this world-class botanical garden.

Interesting fact: The Chicago Botanic Garden is home to over 2.5 million plants, representing 10,000 different types.

Explore the Air and Water Show at North Avenue Beach

For an unforgettable experience in the Park Ridge area, the annual Chicago Air and Water Show at North Avenue Beach is a must-see event. Visitors can watch spectacular aerial displays by military and civilian aircraft, as well as thrilling water stunts on Lake Michigan. With live music, food vendors, and an exciting atmosphere, this show is a perfect way to end the road trip with a bang.

Interesting fact: The Chicago Air and Water Show is the largest free show of its kind in the United States, attracting over two million spectators each year.

Conclusion

In total, the road trip from Cincinnati, Ohio to Park Ridge, Illinois covers approximately 300 miles and can take around five and a half hours of driving time. With a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and thrilling events, this route offers wonderful opportunities for adventure and relaxation. By visiting the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Purdue University campus, the Chicago Botanic Garden, and the Chicago Air and Water Show, travelers can create unforgettable memories and make the most of their road trip experience. Whether it's for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, this route promises a perfect blend of fun and excitement for travelers of all ages.