Points of Interest between Brecksville, Ohio to North Ridgeville, Ohio

picture of Brecksville, Ohio

Five Must-See Attractions on Your Ohio Road Trip

Are you planning to hit the road between Brecksville and North Ridgeville, Ohio? Well, buckle up your seatbelt because I have got a great adventure prepared for you! This journey is a perfect mix of small towns, natural landscapes, and historic sites, ideal for travelers of all ages. So, let's get the wheels rolling and explore the top five attractions that you must visit on your Ohio road trip.

Brook Park, OH – The Halfway Point

As you embark on this road trip between Brecksville and North Ridgeville, you'll come across a little suburban town called Brook Park, OH. It's roughly halfway from your starting point, and the perfect place to stretch your legs and take a break from the road. Here you can find cozy restaurants, cafes, shops and parks to enjoy. One of the must-visit places in Brook Park is the NASA Glenn Research Center. Here you can take a virtual tour of the Space Center, learn about innovation in space exploration, and enjoy plenty of interactive exhibits.

Top Five Places to Visit

  1. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a 183-acre land that's home to over 3,000 animals from all over the world. The zoo is divided into distinct sections such as the African Elephant Crossing, the Australian Adventure, and the Primate, Cat & Aquatics building. Kids enjoy the animals, playgrounds, and rides, while adults appreciate the conservation efforts and interactive exhibits that educate visitors on wildlife and its preservation.

  1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Nestled along the Cuyahoga River, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a picturesque destination that offers various activities for the whole family. Take a hike on the paved trails, packed dirt trails, or horse-friendly routes and discover the park's waterfalls, caves, and forests. Rent a bike and explore the 85-mile Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which follows the historic canal system that once transported goods and people from Lake Erie to the Ohio River.

  1. Historic Little Italy

Ready for a taste of Italy in Ohio? Then head to Cleveland's Historic Little Italy, a neighborhood packed with charming shops, delis, and Italian restaurants. Savor the traditional spaghetti and meatballs, Chicken Parmesan, or thin-crust pizza cooked in front of you. Don't forget to save some room for a tasty cannoli or homemade gelato. Little Italy's picturesque streets and beautiful churches are perfect for a romantic stroll or a photoshoot.

  1. Oberlin College and Conservatory

If you are a fan of music, you can't miss the Oberlin College and Conservatory. Established in 1833, Oberlin College is the oldest co-educational liberal arts college in America. The conservatory offers a music program that is among the best in the country, and alumni include decorated musicians like Lena Horne and Jennifer Koh. Take a stroll through the campus's beautiful architecture and gardens and enjoy the music performances that take place all year round.

  1. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center

The Lake Erie Nature & Science Center is an educational destination for families and nature enthusiasts. The center offers a planetarium, animals such as Owls, Hawks, and Foxes, and interactive exhibits that showcase the nature that thrives in the Great Lakes Regions. You'll also learn about bird-watching, meteorology, and the constellations that are visible on a clear Cleveland night.

Best Route for This Trip

As you depart from Brecksville, Ohio, take I-77 South for 1.5 miles, merge onto I-480 West and continue for ten miles, then use OH-17 exit towards Berea and turn left onto Smith Road. Head straight for about 8 miles, turn right onto Bagley and you'll arrive at Brook Park, OH. From here, take I-71 North for 22 miles, and you'll arrive in Cleveland. The trip to North Ridgeville will only take you 25 minutes from there. Going back, take I-90 East for 21 miles from North Ridgeville, and you'll arrive at the starting point of your journey, Brecksville, Ohio.

In conclusion, the area between Brecksville and North Ridgeville offers a plethora of attractions that suit all tastes and budgets. From a visit to NASA's space center to a stroll through little Italy, this trip can be an unforgettable experience for the whole family. So, put on your sunglasses, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road to explore the diverse and scenic attractions of Ohio!