The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Appleton, Wisconsin to Westerville, Ohio

Are you planning a road trip from Appleton, Wisconsin to Westerville, Ohio? This route will take you through some of the most scenic parts of the midwest United States. The journey is approximately seven hours long, covering a distance of 392 miles. There are many places to see and things to do along the way. To make your trip even more memorable, here are the top places to stop and see as you drive from Appleton, Wisconsin, to Westerville, Ohio.

Explore the Beauty of Milwaukee

The first stop on your road trip should be Milwaukee, Wisconsin, just a two-hour drive from Appleton. This vibrant city is a perfect place to begin your journey, and there are many attractions to explore. One of the most popular is the Milwaukee Art Museum, which features over 25,000 works of art, including contemporary art, American decorative arts, and folk art. The museum itself is an architectural masterpiece, with a movable sunscreen that opens and closes like the wings of a bird.

Another must-see attraction in Milwaukee is the Harley-Davidson Museum. This museum highlights the history and culture of one of America's most iconic brands, showcasing the motorcycles, artifacts, and apparel that have made Harley-Davidson famous worldwide. The museum also offers guided tours, which provide a fascinating insight into the history of the company.

Stopover at Chicago

After leaving Milwaukee, your next stop should be the Windy City of Chicago, Illinois. Chicago is about a two-and-a-half-hour drive away from Milwaukee and is one of the most-visited cities in the US. One of the top attractions in Chicago is the Navy Pier, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Michigan and the stunning skyline of the city. The pier is home to many attractions, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, and mini-golf course.

You should also visit Millennium Park, which offers a range of free events and activities throughout the year. The park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean," which has become one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. If you're looking for a place to relax, head to Lincoln Park Zoo, which is home to over 1,000 animals from around the world.

Enjoy the Scenic Beauty of Toledo, Ohio

After leaving Chicago, your next stop is Toledo, Ohio, which is about a two-hour drive away. Toledo is known for its innovative art and cultural scene, and it's home to many attractions worth exploring. One of the must-see attractions is the Toledo Museum of Art, which houses over 30,000 works of art from all over the world. The museum also offers many programs and workshops for both adults and children.

If you're a history buff, visit the Fort Meigs State Memorial, which is a National Historic Landmark. The site was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the War of 1812, and you can still see original fortifications and tools from that era. For nature lovers, the Toledo Botanical Garden is a trendy spot. It has over 60 acres of gardens, a greenhouse, and a conservatory. It's a great place to soak up the beauty of nature.

Get Smitten by the Charm of Amish Country

About an hour's drive from Toledo is the Amish Country of Ohio. This area is known for its ethereal beauty, simple lifestyle, and unique culture. While in Amish Country, make sure you visit the Village of Berlin, a quaint and magical town with unique shopping experiences, beautifully intricate quilt shops, and friendly locals. Here, you will appreciate the enchanting ambiance of the simple life.

For a thrilling experience at Amish Country, visit the Amish Country theater, a unique theater with exclusive attractions and live performances. Additionally, explore the Winesburg Historical Society and the German Culture Museum to learn more about the unique Amish and Mennonite cultures.

Enjoy the Best of the Buckeye State in Columbus

Your road trip ends in Westerville, Ohio, a suburb of Columbus. Columbus has some of the finest attractions in the State of Ohio. The Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Garden is a picturesque attraction, with numerous botanical gardens that provide scenic beauty. It features over 400 plant species, a gift shop, and multiple dining options.

If you love animals, a visit to Columbus Zoo and Aquarium will blow your mind. Spanning more than 580 acres, this zoo is home to over 10,000 animals representing over 600 species. Visitors can enjoy exhibits like the Heart of Africa region, where you can see lions, cheetahs, and camels. Other captivating attractions include the world-famous Columbus Symphony, Columbus Museum of art, Ohio Statehouse, and COSI, a beautiful science center with several STEM-based exhibits.

Conclusion

Road trips are a great way to explore and discover new places. The drive from Appleton, Wisconsin, to Westerville, Ohio, offers incredible experiences that you don't want to miss. From the vibrant city of Milwaukee and the splendor of Chicago to the enchanting Amish Country of Ohio and the excitement of Columbus, this road trip provides an opportunity to explore the gems of the Midwest. Enjoy every bit of your road trip, and be sure to take lots of photographs and make unforgettable memories!