Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Cincinnati, OH and Washington, DC

Road trips are a quintessential American experience, and the journey from Cincinnati, OH, to Washington, DC, offers plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration. The route spans over 500 miles, taking drivers on a scenic drive through hills, valleys, and historic landmarks. The halfway point of the trip is Washington, PA, a small town with a population of approximately 13,000 people. The town is known for its rich history, including the Whiskey Rebellion and serving as a stop on the Underground Railroad. So, what are the best things to do on this road trip?

Visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force

Located in Dayton, OH, the National Museum of the United States Air Force is the oldest and largest military aviation museum in the world. The museum showcases more than 360 aircraft and missiles, including some of America's most historic planes, like the Wright Brothers' 1909 Military Flyer and the B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay. Visitors can also explore interactive exhibits and displays, which offer a glimpse into the lives of airmen and women throughout history.

Interesting Fact: The museum is located on the site of the Wright Brothers' original flying field, which they used for flight experiments in 1904 and 1905.

Tour the Hocking Hills

Located approximately an hour from Columbus, OH, the Hocking Hills is a scenic wonderland consisting of deep gorges, waterfalls, and towering cliffs. Visitors can hike miles of trails through the lush forests, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and take in the breathtaking views from elevated lookout points. The Hocking Hills is also home to a series of natural caves and rock formations, including Rock House, Ash Cave, and Old Man's Cave.

Interesting Fact: The Hocking Hills is home to more than 2,000 plant and animal species, and many of these species are found nowhere else in the world.

Explore Pittsburgh's Strip District

Located on the outskirts of downtown Pittsburgh, PA, the Strip District is a vibrant neighborhood that is renowned for its food and cultural offerings. Visitors can explore the historic market district, which is home to an array of local eateries and specialty shops. From freshly-baked bread and pastries to handmade pasta and locally roasted coffee, the Strip offers something for everyone. The area is also home to a variety of cultural landmarks, including the Heinz History Center, the Senator John Heinz Regional History Center, and the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium.

Interesting Fact: The Strip District was once the hub of Pittsburgh's iron, steel, and coal industries and played a significant role in the city's growth and development.

Visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Located in Washington, DC, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is the world's largest museum dedicated to the study of aviation and space exploration. The museum features an impressive collection of artifacts, including the Wright Brothers' 1903 Wright Flyer, Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis, and the Apollo 11 Command Module. Visitors can also explore a range of exhibits, including the Air Transportation Gallery, which showcases the history of commercial aviation, and the Space Race Gallery, which examines the competition between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War.

Interesting Fact: More than 9 million people visit the National Air and Space Museum each year, making it one of the most popular museums in the world.

Take a Tour of the White House

Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, the White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. The iconic property has been home to every president since John Adams, and visitors can take a guided tour of the public rooms, including the East Room, the Red Room, and the Blue Room. Highlights of the tour include seeing the famous Oval Office and the State Dining Room, which has hosted some of the world's most influential leaders.

Interesting Fact: The White House has 132 rooms, including 35 bathrooms and 16 family-guest rooms.

Overall, the Cincinnati, OH, to Washington, DC, road trip offers a variety of options for adventure, exploring, and learning about American history. The route is approximately a 7 to 8-hour drive and offers the perfect opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the area and visit some of the country's most iconic landmarks.

As the saying goes, "It's not the destination, it's the journey." With that in mind, those embarking on this memorable drive will have plenty to see and do along the way.