Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Berea, Ohio to Cincinnati, Ohio
If you're looking for a fun road trip from Berea to Cincinnati, you'll be pleased to know that there are quite a few unexpected places along the way that make for great pit stops. The drive is approximately 230 miles and will last you around 4 hours, not factoring in stops. The route takes travelers through some very pretty countryside and major Ohio cities. Between Berea and Cincinnati, there are must-stop tourist destinations, must-eat-at diners, and treks worth making.
Halfway Point: Columbus, OH
Before we dive into the pit stops, at the exact midpoint of your journey, you'll find Ohio's capital--Columbus, OH. Columbus is the fourth most populous city in Ohio and is known to be a hub of creativity and innovation. There are several things you could do in Columbus, including a trip to German Village for some old-world charm, a tour of the Ohio Statehouse for history buffs, and other universities and museums if you're looking for some intellectual stimulation. For foodies, Columbus boasts several farm-to-table eateries, co-ops, and classic diners.
1. Ohio Caverns
If you fancy exploring hidden worlds, Ohio Caverns is the perfect place to go. The stunning limestone cave, filled with "trickle stalactites," located near West Liberty, Ohio, is one of the largest cave systems in the United States. Visitors can extensively explore various chambers and paths that lead to other exciting sights. Precious stones shimmer and glow in different chambers, making the trip look like it's out of a fairytale. There are two tours available covering different lengths of the cave. Ohio Caverns also has a beautiful campsite where visitors can pitch their tents and camp out.
Must-Eat-At: The Five Points Cafe has been in operation since 1927, serving up classic dishes such as Eggs Benedict and French Toast. The building is also an artifact in and of itself, having not been renovated since 1930.
2. Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park
Fans of aviation need to make it out to Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. The park is dedicated to the Wright Brothers, two famous brothers who defied odds and made several aviation breakthroughs. The park visitors center is a great place to grab travel essentials and information about the park's various exhibitions. The park includes the Wright Brother's family's home, the Wright Cycle Company, and Huffman Prairie Flying Field, where the Wright Brothers took several flights and honed their skills as aviators.
Must-Eat-At: If you're looking for a hearty, meaty treat, then Hickory Bar-B-Q is just what you need. Their mouth-watering BBQ Options include ribs, pulled pork, and brisket.
3. The National Museum of the United States Air Force
Make a stop at the National Museum of the United States Air Force if you want to see some of the world's rarest planes. The museum contains over 360 aerospace exhibits and is the largest and oldest military aviation museum in the world. The museum has a vast array of aircraft, including planes from the Wright Brothers' time period to more modern fighter jets. The museum also has an Imax theater, a cafe, and a gift shop.
Must-Eat-At: Culp's Cafe. There are not many places where visitors can feast on homemade chili, soups, and baked goods. Culp's Cafe is operating since 1900, and it has been holding on to its traditional recipes since then.
4. Serpent Mound
A trip to southwest Ohio wouldn't be complete without a stop at Serpent Mound. Serpent Mound is a three-foot high, a mile-long mound of earth in Peebles, Ohio, shaped like a snake eating an egg. People have been puzzling and speculating about serpent mound's purpose for centuries; it remains one of Ohio's most mysterious landmarks.
Must-Eat-At: Diesel Den Diner is a favorite of Peebles locals and visitors alike. They provide both American and Mexican cuisine, which means you have a vast selection of burritos, sandwiches, and all-day breakfast options.
5. Loretta Lynn's Ranch
Country music lovers, rejoice! Make your way to Loretta Lynn's Ranch in Hurricane Mills, Tennessee, and revel in America's greatest country singers' legacy. The property features two museums, a campsite, and an RV park. Visitors can also take a tour of the cabin Loretta and her husband lived in and make a stop at the concert hall where Lynn has hosted some of the nation's greatest performers.
Must-Eat-At: Miss Loretta's Cafe at Loretta Lynn's Ranch. They provide authentic Southern dishes like meatloaf, chicken and dumplings, and Loretta's personal favorite, fried catfish.
Conclusion
From Ohio Caverns to Loretta Lynn's Ranch, a road trip from Berea to Cincinnati will keep you busy. Whether you're a fan of US history, aviation, geology, or you're just looking for an escape from city life, you can find something unexpected along Ohio's backroads. As such, if you're looking for an affordable and memorable road trip, consider the Beria-to-Cincinnati route and make these exciting stops along the way.