Some of the best places in Ohio aren’t destinations at all. They’re the roads that take you there. From rolling Appalachian hills to Lake Erie shorelines, Ohio offers several beautiful driving routes that reward travelers willing to slow down and explore.
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or adding stops to a larger Ohio road trip itinerary, these scenic drives showcase some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes.
Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
The Hocking Hills Scenic Byway is one of the most famous drives in the state.
Running through the forests of southeastern Ohio, the route connects many of the region’s most beautiful parks and trails. Along the way you’ll pass deep gorges, sandstone cliffs, and quiet woodland valleys.
Stops worth exploring include:
- Old Man’s Cave
- Ash Cave
- Cedar Falls
- Rock House
Amish Country Backroads
Driving through Holmes County offers a completely different experience. Rolling farmland, horse-drawn buggies, and traditional Amish markets create a peaceful countryside atmosphere.
The towns of Berlin, Millersburg, and Sugarcreek are especially popular stops.
Lake Erie Coastal Drive
The northern shoreline of Ohio offers one of the state’s most relaxing scenic routes.Driving along Lake Erie reveals beaches, lighthouses, and waterfront towns.
Some of the best stops include:
- Marblehead Lighthouse
- Port Clinton
- Put-in-Bay ferry access
- Geneva-on-the-Lake
Sunsets along this stretch of road are some of the most beautiful in the Midwest.
Ohio River Scenic Byway
Following the Ohio River along the southern edge of the state reveals historic river towns and forested hills. The town of Marietta is a highlight, with beautiful riverfront views and a charming historic district..
Mohican Scenic Drive
The forests surrounding Mohican State Park create one of Ohio’s most peaceful landscapes. Winding roads pass through wooded hills and along the Clear Fork River, offering beautiful views in every season. Autumn is particularly spectacular when the forest turns shades of red and gold.
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Route
Located between Cleveland and Akron, the roads through Cuyahoga Valley National Park provide beautiful views of forests, rivers, and historic canal paths.
You can also ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for a different perspective on the valley.
Planning Your Scenic Drive
Before setting out, consider planning stops along your route. Many of Ohio’s scenic drives pass through charming towns, hiking trails, and unique attractions.
Discover More Hidden Places in Ohio
Scenic drives are often the best way to discover destinations that don’t appear in traditional travel guides. Small towns, hidden parks, and unusual roadside attractions appear when you least expect them. That sense of discovery is exactly what this website is built around.
If you enjoy exploring new places, be sure to read our guide to Hidden Gems in Ohio, where we highlight even more destinations across the state.
