The Best Road Trips Near Cleveland, OH

As the second-largest city in Ohio, Cleveland offers a unique range of culture, history, and dining establishments. Even after exploring almost everything this city has to offer, you might find yourself in need of a change of scenery. Thanks to its proximity to major highways, Cleveland serves as a perfect starting point if you’re looking to take a road trip, so gas up your vehicle and get ready to hit the road to visit some of these locations.

Akron, Ohio

“Akron-Stan Hywet Hall (BRLF)” licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Flickr by Ohio Redevelopment Projects – ODSA

“Akron-Stan Hywet Hall (BRLF)” licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Flickr by Ohio Redevelopment Projects – ODSA

Just 45 minutes directly south of Cleveland lies Akron, which is known as the Rubber Capital of the World due to its long history of tire and rubber manufacturing. While there, check out the 20,000-square-foot Akron Art Museum and its gallery dedicated to Ohio-area artists, and then head over to the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, where you can view the Tudor Revival manor and its landscaped gardens. Stop at the historic Ohio and Erie Canal landmark known as Lock 3, which became an entertainment amphitheater hosting various events throughout the year.

Depending on the time of year you venture to Akron, you might be able to witness several noteworthy national events. Typically held during the summer, the PGA World Golf Championships occur at the Firestone Country Club. In mid-July at Lock 3, the National Hamburger Festival celebrates the big and juicy slab of meat. Another popular event is the Summit County Italian Festival, which includes tribute bands and delicious Italian fare.

Canton, Ohio

For a fun day trip, consider taking the one-hour trip south of Cleveland to visit Canton. Most notably known for being home to the Football Hall of Fame and the birthplace of the National Football League, Canton has more to offer. Former President William McKinley conducted his famed front porch campaign from his Canton home, thus winning him the presidency during the 1896 election. The McKinley National Memorial and William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum commemorate his life and achievements.

Immerse yourself in local and national history at several museums. The Blue Water Majesty Museum features model ships all constructed by master carver Larry Pulka. Ohio’s premier location for visual arts is the Canton Museum of Art, which includes national touring exhibits featuring prominent designers. Don’t forget to check out the Canton Classic Car Museum and its extensive exhibit of rare and unusual classic and vintage vehicles.

Grand Rapids, Michigan

If you’re looking to head out of the state, take the 4.5-hour drive northwest to Grand Rapids. Just 25 miles east of Lake Michigan, this city is the second-largest in the state and one of the fastest-growing in the Midwest. It’s home to the Gerald R. Ford Museum, where the former President and First Lady are buried. Another noteworthy location in this bustling city is the Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park, which include 125 acres of botanical gardens and artwork.

Take a walk along the Grand River where you can find reconstructed burial grounds that the prehistoric Hopewell tribe built. Then stop downtown at the Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts where you can view multiple gallery exhibitions. A must-visit building is the Van Andel Museum Center, which is among the country’s oldest history museums. Over the years, this museum has hosted notable exhibitions, including one of the Dead Sea Scrolls.

Lake Erie Islands, Ohio

Almost 1.5 hours northwest of Cleveland lies the Lake Erie Islands, which are popular summer getaway spots for many Ohioans. The Lake Erie Islands consists of more than two dozen islands, most of which are under the sovereignty of the State of Ohio, but Pelee Island is the only major inhabited one within the province of Ontario. Two of the more popular islands include South Bass Island and Kelleys Island. Although you can take your vehicle via the ferry to the islands, consider leaving it on the mainland and either renting a golf cart or bicycle to get around.

Located 3 miles from the southern shores of Lake Erie, South Bass Island is often referred to as the “Key West of Lake Erie” and is known for its bar scene. Its village of Put-in-Bay remains a popular summer tourist spot, which you can visit via a ferry that leaves from the two mainland cities of Port Clinton and Sandusky. For amazing views of the island, check out Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, which commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie that occurred in the Battle of 1812.

Originally known as Sandusky Island by the British, the Kelleys Island was renamed in 1840 by brothers Datus and Irad Kelley when they purchased the entire island. Today, thousands of people visit this island, which is the largest of the American Lake Erie Islands. Visit the Glacial Grooves in Kelleys Island State Park and see how glaciers carved out parts of the park.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Two hours southwest of Cleveland is Pittsburgh, which is the second-most populous city in Pennsylvania. Its rich culture and arts scene make it a must-visit for your road trip. Stop at the Heinz Hall for the Performing Arts, which is home to the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and the Pittsburgh Youth Symphony Orchestra. The seven-floor Andy Warhol Museum is the largest North American museum dedicated to a single artist. Don’t forget the Heinz History Center that teaches you everything you need to know about the city.

If you’re looking to stretch your legs for a bit and get some fresh air, check out the Phipps Conservatory. Depending on when you visit, you might also see one of the numerous seasonal flower shows. Point State Park in downtown Pittsburgh is another noteworthy spot since it rests at the confluence of the city’s three rivers: the Allegheny, the Monongahela, and the Ohio.

Are you ready to hit the road and visit one of these noteworthy locations near Cleveland? If so, let North Coast Auto Mall – Cleveland help you out. We have a huge selection of vehicles at prices you can afford. Reach out to us today, so we can get you ready for your road trip in your new vehicle.