Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Boston Heights, Ohio to Kirtland Hills, Ohio

Driving from Boston Heights, Ohio to Kirtland Hills, Ohio will take you on a scenic route through northeastern Ohio. The distance between these two locations is approximately 40 miles and should take around an hour to drive. Along the way, there are a few unexpected places that you might not want to miss. Whether you're a local or just visiting the area, these five stops are worth making.

Halfway Point: Beachwood, OH

Beachwood, Ohio, located halfway between Boston Heights and Kirtland Hills, is the first stop on this list. A beautiful city with a population of just under 12,000, Beachwood has many attractions that are worth checking out. Visitors can take a stroll through the upscale Beachwood Place Mall, which has over 140 stores and restaurants to choose from. For nature lovers, there is the Silvis Woods State Nature Preserve, which is a great place for hiking and bird-watching. Beachwood also boasts a number of options for fine dining, making it an excellent spot for a midday break.

Food recommendation: L'Albatros Brasserie & Bar - indulge in classic French cuisine with a modern twist.

1. Chagrin Falls, OH

Chagrin Falls, Ohio is a small town that's located about 6 miles south of Beachwood. Known for its picturesque waterfall and an idyllic downtown district, Chagrin Falls is an excellent spot to take a break and stretch your legs. Visitors can explore the quaint, historic downtown where there are plenty of boutiques, cafes, and antique shops. The Chagrin Falls Popcorn Shop, a town landmark since 1949, is an absolute must-visit for those who love popcorn and sweets.

Food recommendation: Gamekeeper's Taverne - a local favorite for their extensive beer selection and hearty pub food, including their signature Duck Nachos.

2. Holden Arboretum, OH

Holden Arboretum, located about 10 miles northeast of Chagrin Falls, is a hidden gem situated across 3,500 acres of forest land. Visitors can hike through the various trails that offer spectacular views of Lake Erie and visit Geoffrey's Garden, which is home to a lovely garden and a hedge maze. Holden Arboretum also offers various events throughout the year, including seasonal markets and nature walks.

Food recommendation: Lucky's Cafe - a farm-to-table restaurant that serves up tasty dishes with locally sourced ingredients.

3. Punderson State Park, OH

The Punderson State Park, situated about 15 miles southeast of Holden Arboretum, is a great place to enjoy the great outdoors. This state park offers a variety of activities, including camping, fishing, boating, and hiking. Visitors can explore the stunning natural surroundings and take a stroll around Punderson Lake. The park also features a large indoor swimming pool, a toboggan slide, and a disc golf course.

Food recommendation: North East Kingdom Tasting Room - a cozy wine bar that offers an extensive selection of local wines paired with delicious appetizers.

4. The Gorge Metro Park, OH

Located about 7 miles east of Punderson State Park, The Gorge Metro Park is a beautiful location to take a break from driving. This park offers an incredible display of cliffs, waterfalls and sandstone ledges, all along the Cuyahoga River. Visitors can hike the trails that follow the river and climb the observation tower to get panoramic views of the park.

Food recommendation: Twisted Meltz - a grilled cheese restaurant that offers a variety of creative sandwiches made from locally sourced ingredients.

Conclusion

Driving from Boston Heights to Kirtland Hills may seem like a short journey, but with these unexpected stops, it turns into a memorable experience. Whether it's a relaxing stroll through the Holden Arboretum, exploring the quaint Chagrin Falls or admiring the natural beauty at the Gorge Metro Park, there's something for everyone. And who can forget the food! Dining options range from classic French cuisine to country-style grilled cheese sandwiches. So, why not take a break from the mundane and embark on this adventure - your taste buds and inner adventurer will thank you!