Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Cincinnati, OH to Troy, OH

If you're looking for a fun day trip from Cincinnati to Troy, or vice versa, you're in luck. The drive takes about an hour and a half each way, making it the perfect opportunity to explore some hidden gems in Ohio. Here are five unexpected places to stop on your journey.

The Halfway Point: Franklin, OH

Before we dive into the specifics of each destination, it's important to mention the halfway point between Cincinnati and Troy: Franklin, OH. This cozy town is home to several unique shops and restaurants, so it's worth taking a break here. The downtown area has a charming small-town vibe that's perfect for wandering around for a bit.

1. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park (Hamilton, OH)

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park is a unique park featuring over 60 outdoor sculptures, most of which are contemporary. There's nothing quite like it in the region, making it a compelling destination for visitors. The park is spread over 300 acres, so there are plenty of paths for a scenic walk. Be sure to bring a camera, as the sculptures offer a lot of opportunities for photoshoots.

Food recommendation: Pack a picnic and enjoy it on one of the park's many benches.

2. Monroe Community Park (Monroe, OH)

Monroe Community Park is a hidden gem of a park, situated on a lake that's perfect for fishing. The park offers several hiking and biking trails, making it easy to spend an entire afternoon here. There's also a playground and picnic shelters, making it an ideal spot for families. The park overlooks the lake, offering stunning views of the water.

Food recommendation: Bring a portable grill and cook up some burgers for a fun, relaxing lunch.

3. Young's Jersey Dairy (Yellow Springs, OH)

Young's Jersey Dairy has been a beloved ice cream spot for over 150 years, and for good reason. Their ice cream is made on-site using fresh ingredients, and it's simply delicious. But that's not all Young's has to offer--they also have miniature golf, batting cages, and even a petting zoo. There's truly something for everyone here.

Food recommendation: You guessed it--try the ice cream! Their "Cow Patty" flavor is a classic.

4. Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve (Clifton, OH)

The Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve is a stunning natural area that offers hiking trails, waterfall views, and more. The preserve is actually a limestone gorge formed by the Little Miami River, and the resulting cliffs are awe-inspiring. It's a great place to escape into nature for a few hours.

Food recommendation: Pack a sandwich and enjoy it on one of the park's many benches.

5. Overfield Tavern Museum (Troy, OH)

The Overfield Tavern Museum is a unique museum that focuses on the history of the Miami Valley area in the 19th century. The museum is housed in a historic tavern that was originally built in the late 1700s, making it an interesting destination for those interested in history. The museum offers guided tours that are informative and engaging.

Food recommendation: Take your pick from one of the many restaurants in downtown Troy. La Piazza is a great Italian option.

Conclusion

All in all, a drive from Cincinnati to Troy can be an unexpected adventure. With these five unique destinations, you'll be sure to have a fun day trip outside of the city. Don't forget to pack a picnic and bring your camera!