Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Olean, NY to Ann Arbor, MI
Traveling from New York to Michigan by car can be a long journey, especially if it is not taken often. But, if you're looking to spice things up and make a few pit stops along the way, there are several unexpected places worth checking out. This drive can take anywhere from 8 to 10 hours, depending on your route and traffic. Here are five places to visit along the way to make your journey even more exciting.
Halfway Point: Euclid, OH
Nestled between Cleveland and Mentor, Euclid, OH, makes the perfect midpoint to rest and take a break. This small city has several attractions to offer, including the National Cleveland-Style Polka Hall of Fame museum. This museum features exhibits covering various Polka royalty and fascinating music history archives. The Hall of Fame also has a dance floor, so visitors can experience the dance moves themselves.
Food lovers can enjoy traditional Potica, a sweet nut-filled bread, that rivals any other delicacy in Euclid, OH. This sweet bread is exceptional and can be found at the Buckeye Chocolate Cafe located within the city.
1. Crumbs Restaurant and Bakery, Manlius, NY
Just off the highway, Crumbs Restaurant and Bakery in Manlius, NY, is a small town bakery that provides mouth-watering treats. Serving up homemade meals, this restaurant is a perfect place to refuel with their delicious cinnamon rolls. The sticky buns with roasted pecans served in their bakery are crispy, sweet, and chewy, making a perfect afternoon snack for travelers.
Crumbs Restaurant and Bakery is known for their fresh and hearty meals. Their handcrafted soups and grilled cheese sandwiches provide a satisfying and comforting meal to travelers on their journey from New York to Michigan.
2. Niagara Reservation State Park, NY
As one of America's natural wonders, Niagara Reservations State Park should not be missed on your way to Michigan. The falls provide a beautiful background and are worth a stop for some peace and relaxation. Spend some time walking along the park trails, and once you’ve had your fill of natural beauty, treat yourself to a tasty meal at the Top of the Falls Restaurant.
The restaurant is located just steps from the edge of the Horseshoe Falls. Visitors can experience a delicious meal while enjoying the spectacular panoramic views of the cascading falls. The Top of the Falls restaurant is perfect for brunch or lunch, with a menu featuring unique famous Niagara dishes such as the beer-battered haddock fish and chips.
3. Toledo Museum of Art, Ohio
Visit Toledo and see the city's pride, the Toledo Museum of Art. Over 45,000 pieces of art are displayed within this museum, which features European paintings, contemporary art, and glass exhibits. The museum's most popular exhibit is the Glass Pavilion, showcasing a variety of glass sculptural pieces.
After wandering through the museum, you may need to stop and grab a bite to eat. Mancy’s Steakhouse is among the best restaurants in Toledo. This steakhouse combines old-world charm with a modern twist to provide exceptional dining to visitors. The roasted garlic mashed potatoes have become a popular item among locals and tourists.
4. Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
Indiana Dunes National Park offers a surprise natural escape from the Midwest’s urban landscape. This Lake Michigan beachfront park is a perfect destination for sunbathing, camping, hiking, and many more outdoor activities. The dunes that rise and fall along the Lake Michigan beach offer several stunning vistas to experience.
While on your visit, a stop at Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill and Tavern should not be missed. The restaurant offers a comfortable and home-like atmosphere, not to forget the variety of healthy food choices that cater to different diets. For example, their gluten-free mac and cheese leave you feeling like you've had a hearty meal without any side effects.
5. Michigan State Capitol Building, Lansing, Michigan
Lansing has a lot for history lovers and travel enthusiasts. Head to the Michigan State Capitol Building, which boasts a stunning architecture and a museum that documents Michigan's political history. Visitors can enjoy exploring the city while learning and taking in the sights of the impressive architecture.
Finish your visit off by satisfying your taste buds at the Soup Spoon Cafe. This restaurant that caters to breakfast, lunch, and dinner has a menu full of a variety that caters to different taste buds. Their Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos are a must-try.
Conclusion
Road trips are fun and exciting, but to make them even more special, you need to add some unexpected stops. The journey from Olean, NY, to Ann Arbor, MI, is no different, with unique attractions and dining spots along the route. From stunning natural wonders to museums and restaurants that cater to different diets, you can get a little flavor of everything. By visiting these unexpected places, make your journey more memorable, enjoyable, and, most importantly, interesting.