Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chicago, Illinois and Piqua, Ohio
Driving from Chicago, Illinois to Piqua, Ohio is a journey of approximately 250 miles, a trip that will take approximately 4-5 hours. Though it may seem like a straightforward, unremarkable drive through the heartland of the United States, there are surprises waiting for those willing to take the time to explore along the way. This article highlights five unexpected places to pause, stretch your legs, and explore on this midwestern road trip.
Pierceton, Indiana: The Halfway Point
As the halfway point between Chicago and Piqua, Pierceton, Indiana, is the perfect place to break up the drive. Though not the largest or most well-known town in the state, Pierceton boasts a charming downtown area with a variety of local businesses and events to enjoy. One of the town's biggest draws is the annual Pierceton Days festival, which takes place in late July and offers food, live music, and a variety of family-friendly activities. The town is also home to the Rich Quaker Warehouse Antique Mall, a treasure trove of vintage finds for collectors and casual shoppers alike.
Favorite Food: No visit to Pierceton is complete without tasting the famous pork tenderloin sandwich at Dip 'N Good Dips and Eats.
Akron, Indiana: Home of the Akron Arch
Akron, Indiana, might seem like just another small town, but it is home to an unexpected architectural wonder: the Akron Arch. Built in 1917, the concrete arch spans Main Street, a local testament to the trend of "community branding" that swept through the country in the early 20th century. Though not the most impressive example of this trend, the Akron Arch is a unique piece of history and worth a stop for those interested in quirky roadside attractions.
Favorite Food: Akron's Main Street features a small park with a gazebo, perfect for a peaceful picnic with snacks from the town's grocery store or bakery.
Wapakoneta, Ohio: Birthplace of Neil Armstrong
Drive just 45 minutes north of Piqua, Ohio, and you'll find Wapakoneta, the birthplace of Neil Armstrong, the first human to walk on the moon. Visitors can explore the Armstrong Air and Space Museum, which houses a variety of exhibits and artifacts related to space exploration. The town also hosts a celebration of Armstrong's life every year in late July, complete with a parade, carnival games, and a moon pie-eating contest.
Favorite Food: For a sweet treat, try one of the homemade sundaes at Millie's Dairy Bar.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio: Scenic Hiking Trails
Though not a specific town or landmark, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers visitors an unexpected natural oasis in the midst of the midwestern plains. Drive just over an hour south of Cleveland, Ohio, and you'll find yourself surrounded by forested hills, rivers, and hiking trails for all skill levels. Make sure to check out Brandywine Falls, a stunning 65-foot waterfall, and take a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a unique perspective on the park's beauty.
Favorite Food: For a meal featuring locally-sourced ingredients, stop by The Blue Door Cafe and Bakery in nearby Cuyahoga Falls.
Granville, Ohio: Charming College Town
Just 45 minutes east of Columbus, Ohio, Granville is a charming college town with a lot to offer visitors. Stroll through the town's quaint downtown area, filled with locally-owned shops, restaurants, and cafes. Granville also boasts two colleges, Denison University and the Granville School of Art, both of which offer art exhibits and performances throughout the year. Stop by the Robbins Hunter Museum to learn about the town's history and architecture, or explore the nature trails at the nearby Dawes Arboretum.
Favorite Food: For a taste of locally-sourced ingredients in a cozy setting, try the burgers and fries at Brew's Cafe.
Conclusion
Though the drive between Chicago and Piqua may seem unremarkable, taking the time to explore and pause along the way reveals a multitude of unexpected and delightful destinations. Whether you're interested in architecture, history, nature, or food, there's something for everyone on this midwestern road trip. So pack up the car, grab some snacks, and hit the road to discover the hidden gems of Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.