Top Places to See When Driving From Bexley, Ohio to Johnstown, Ohio

Driving from Bexley, Ohio to Johnstown, Ohio can be an enthralling experience, with beautiful sights to see along the way. The 22-mile-long drive will take you through some of the most magnificent places in Ohio. You can make a stop along the route to enjoy some of the unique landmarks, local cuisines, and historical sites.

In this blog post, I will share with you some of the top places to see when driving from Bexley, Ohio to Johnstown, Ohio. You will discover the best scenic sites to admire, refreshments to enjoy, and places to relax while on this route. So, buckle up, sit back, and let's get started!

Scenic Delights

1. Creekside Plaza

   Creekside Plaza is located in the heart of the historic district of Gahanna and is a perfect stop to contemplate the beauty of the site. The plaza is an excellent destination for sightseeing, with a beautiful fountain at the center, surrounded by sidewalks and benches. There are also several small shops and restaurants for refreshments and souvenirs to take home.

2. Kurtz Farms

   Kurtz Farms is a beautiful farm market situated near the village of New Albany and is the perfect place for local cuisines and farm products. You will discover the freshness of the locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other farm produce. The farm also has a vast selection of baked goods, homemade jams, and honey for a tasty stop along your route.

3. Lynd Fruit Farm

   Lynd Fruit Farm is a family-owned and operated agricultural destination in Pataskala that has something for everyone. You can enjoy a scenic drive through the farm’s orchard, visit the pumpkin patch, and pick out some fresh produce. The site also has a charming country store that sells locally made syrups, dressings, and jellies.

4. The Buckeye Lake State Park

   The Buckeye Lake State Park is located on the eastern shore and is an excellent spot to view the magnificent Buckeye Lake. It is a popular fishing spot, but you can also enjoy hiking, swimming, or simply relaxing in the cool breeze. You'll be mesmerized by the scenic views of the lake, the sunset, and the feeling of peace offered by the park's beauty.

5. Dawes Arboretum

   Dawes Arboretum is another fantastic place to visit while driving from Bexley, Ohio to Johnstown, Ohio. The arboretum features more than 16,000 cultivated plants, over 4,000 species of trees, and scenic walking trails. You can also enjoy the beauty of the Japanese garden, the Daweswood House Museum, and participate in the numerous seasonal events held throughout the year.

Historical Sites

1. The National Road (US Route 40)

   The National Road or US Route 40 is the first road of its kind in the United States and runs from southwestern Pennsylvania to Illinois. The section that runs through Ohio is a historic route with many landmarks, vintage buildings, and cultural sites. You'll have the opportunity to see several significant historical sites along the way.

2. The Ohio Statehouse

   The Ohio Statehouse is another landmark to add to your must-see list. The structure was completed in 1861 and is one of the oldest buildings in Columbus. Here, you can take a guided tour of the building, visit the museum, or attend a legislative session. It is an excellent place to learn about the history of Ohio and its government.

3. Licking County Historic Jail

   The Licking County Historic Jail is a structure that has been preserved since the 1800s and is situated in the heart of Newark. The jailhouse served as a prison for notorious criminals in Ohio. Today, the jail offers tours where visitors can learn about the jailhouse's history, including the famous prisoners held there.

4. The Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve

   The Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve is a historic site located in Licking County and is a beautiful place to view the natural beauty of the area. The trail that runs through the preserve was once used by the Shawnee Indians, and you can still see some ancient rock carvings along the way. The preserve is a favorite among nature lovers, hikers, and cyclists.

5. The Dawes Arboretum

   The Dawes Arboretum is not only a scenic stop but also a significant historical site in Ohio. The arboretum was established in 1929 by the heirs of Beman and Bertie Dawes, and their mansion, The Daweswood House, still stands within the arboretum. You can take a guided tour of the house and learn about the former lives of the Dawes family and the amount of work that went into building the arboretum.

Conclusion

Driving from Bexley, Ohio to Johnstown, Ohio can be a fun-filled experience with enough variety that everyone will enjoy. The towns and attractions along the route range from historic to scenic, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

There is something special about taking a road trip, enjoying the spontaneous sightseeing and stopping to explore all the local treasures. So, pack your favorite snacks, put on your comfortable shoes, and get ready to enjoy the ride while discovering the beauty of Ohio.