Embark on an adventure between Bradley, Illinois, and Newark, Ohio, and enjoy some of the most exceptional attractions the Midwest has to offer. Here are the top five places to see along the way:
Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center - Indianapolis, IN The Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center is located in the capital of Indiana, Indianapolis, making it an ideal pit stop for any traveler. The venue hosts various events throughout the year, including the Indiana State Fair, which takes place in August. The event features concerts, food vendors, and carnival rides, making it an enjoyable experience for all ages.
Children's Museum & Theatre - Indianapolis, IN The Children's Museum & Theatre is one of the largest children's museums in the world, with over 480,000 square feet of space. The museum has interactive exhibits, including a Dinosphere exhibit, which features life-sized dinosaur fossils. Additionally, the theatre offers various performances for children, making it a fun and educational stop for families.
Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden - Cincinnati, OH The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is home to over 500 animal species and has been voted one of the top zoos in the country. The zoo has exhibits, including the Giraffe Ridge and the Cat Canyon, which allows visitors to see wild cats in their natural habitat. Moreover, the zoo has a botanical garden featuring over 3,000 plant species.
Hocking Hills State Park - Logan, OH Hocking Hills State Park is a natural wonderland with hiking trails highlighting natural rock formations, stunning waterfalls, and caves. The park has numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, including the popular Old Man's Cave trail. Visitors seeking some adventure can take part in activities such as rock-climbing or zip-lining.
Dawes Arboretum - Newark, OH Dawes Arboretum is a 1,800-acre nature preserve that features a wide array of trees, flowers, and plants from around the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the arboretum or explore the vast gardens at their leisure. The arboretum also has various events throughout the year, including the Annual Arbor Day Festival.
The route between Bradley, Illinois, and Newark, Ohio, passes through the halfway point, Greenfield, Indiana. Greenfield is a small town with several restaurants, a park, and the James Whitcomb Riley boyhood home and museum. Visitors who are interested in historic homes and literature will enjoy visiting this museum.
Overall, embarking on a journey between Bradley, Illinois, and Newark, Ohio, offers travelers a chance to explore the Midwest's natural and cultural attractions. The Indianapolis Children's Museum, Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, Hocking Hills State Park, Dawes Arboretum, and Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center are all worth a visit. This route offers a unique combination of outdoor and indoor attractions, providing something for everyone.