The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Belleville, Michigan to Mentor Ohio
Are you planning a road trip from Belleville, Michigan to Mentor, Ohio? If you are, you're in for a treat! This route is full of hidden gems, breathtaking views, and exciting destinations. With so many great sites to visit, it can be tough to decide which ones to prioritize. So, in this post, we've compiled a list of the top places to see when driving from Belleville to Mentor.
From stunning national parks to unique museums, this route has something for every kind of traveler. So, fasten your seatbelts and let's get started!
Visiting Detroit and its surrounding areas
Your journey begins in Belleville, Michigan. From there, you can head to Detroit and explore its unique neighborhoods, rich history, and culture. Here are some of the must-visit places in and around Detroit.
The Henry Ford Museum: This is one of the most popular museums in the country, and it's easy to see why. The Henry Ford museum showcases American innovation and history, featuring everything from the Wright Brothers' plane to vintage cars, to steam engines, and more.
The Motown Museum: Detroit is synonymous with Motown music, and you won't miss a visit to the Motown Museum. This museum celebrates the legendary Motown hits that put Detroit on the musical map and features memorabilia like stage outfits, photos, and more.
Detroit's Eastern Market: This open-air market has been around since 1891 and is one of the oldest and largest markets in the U.S. Here you can find fresh produce, artisanal foodstuffs, and handmade goods, all while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.
Nature, Scenery, and Outdoor Activities
This road trip offers some of the most breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities in the Midwest.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Located between Akron and Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley National Park boasts stunning views of rivers, waterfalls, hills, and lush green forests. The park also offers several hiking and biking trails, horseback riding, and even a scenic train ride.
Lake Erie Islands: If you want to soak up some sun, sand, and beach vibes, you can visit one of Lake Erie's beautiful islands. Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island are the two most popular islands visited by travelers, and they offer beaches, watersports, and plenty of relaxation.
Canal Fulton Canalway Center: This center is located in the heart of the historic town of Canal Fulton and attracts visitors with its network of walking and biking trails, boat rides, and a visitor's center that highlights the history of the Ohio & Erie Canal.
Food and Drink
Foodies will surely love the variety of culinary delights and drinks that can be found along the route!
The Great Lakes Brewing Company: Located in Cleveland, the Great Lakes Brewing Company was one of the first modern microbreweries in the U.S. They're known for making flavorful beers using locally-sourced ingredients and sustainable practices.
The Buckeye Chocolate Company: This chocolate shop, located in the small town of Bellevue, Ohio, offers a wide variety of artisanal chocolates, fudges, and truffles. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
Tremont Coffee Company: This family-owned coffee shop is located in Cleveland's art district, Tremont. They offer locally-roasted coffee, pastries, and homemade sandwiches that you can enjoy while soaking up the neighborhood's bohemian vibe.
Historic Sites
Finally, if you have an interest in history, this road trip will not disappoint.
The First Ladies National Historic Site: Located in Canton, Ohio, this center honors the lives and contributions to American history of the First Ladies of the United States. You can get a guided tour, watch an informative film, or check out the exhibits, all while admiring the stunning architecture of the site.
The William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum: While you're in Canton, you can also visit the Presidential library and museum of William McKinley, the 25th president of the U.S. You can explore his life and presidency through exhibits and multimedia presentations.
Conclusion
As you can see, a road trip from Belleville, Michigan, to Mentor, Ohio, offers a vast array of sites, activities, and experiences that can satisfy any travel interest. Whether you're into nature, history, or culture, there's something for you along the way. So, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and prepare to hit the road to discover the wonders of the Midwest!