It's that time of year. The weather is perfect for a road trip, even if it's just a brief excursion that gets you away from the daily grind for a short time. Ohio has a lot to offer day-trippers, from quaint lakeside towns to vibrant cities and great food and drink. Take a look at some fun day trips from Youngstown, OH that you need to try next time you're out on the road.
Guernsey County
Guernsey County has a little of everything, making it a fun destination for a day trip. When you arrive, make sure to head to downtown Cambridge to experience the history, small-town shopping, architecture, and Kennedy's Bakery, where you'll find glazed donuts unlike any others you've ever tasted. Next, stop by Nothing But Chocolate for all things sweet and delicious, and then make your way to Salt Fork State Park. Spend some time exploring what's known as one of the top 10 "Squatchiest" places in the US, with over 35 sightings of the elusive Big Foot.
If you have time to spend the night, you won't be disappointed with Salt Fork Lodge. Then, the next day, you can play golf or spend some more time hiking and exploring the area.
Cleveland
Cleveland is an easy day trip from Youngstown. It's the second-largest city in Ohio and known for its architecture, history, and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. If you're spending just one day in the city, make sure to take a walking tour of Downtown Cleveland. These tours will take you to Cleveland Public Square, Tower City Center, and the Jack Cleveland Casino.
Another attraction for a one-day trip here is the Arcade Shopping Mall. From there, head to East 4th Street. This is a popular entertainment district in the area and a pedestrian mall with some of the best restaurants and bars found anywhere in the city.
Your next stop should be Millionaire's Row to see the mansions that once belonged to the area's wealthiest residents. Only four of the original mansions still stand, but it's worth a look, nonetheless.
Athens
Athens is home to Ohio University and sits along the Hocking River. This lively city is known not only for large college events but also for its progressive restaurants, concert venues, and coffee shops.
On your one-day trip to Athens, make sure to start with breakfast at Bagel Street Deli. You can then head to the Kennedy Museum of Art in Lin Hall and the Passion Works Studio. This collaborative art studio features works by adults with developmental differences and is a place that makes everyone feel welcome.
If you want to explore outside of Athens, there are some great hiking trails. The Ridges Trail starts across from the Dairy Barn, or you can head to Stroud's Run State Park.
Marblehead
Marblehead is a quaint town on the shores of Lake Erie and the perfect destination for a day trip. While in Marblehead, make sure to visit the Marblehead Lighthouse and the State Park. This relaxing area has walking paths along the lake and is home to the 200-year-old lighthouse.
A trip to Marblehead should include a stop at Rocky Point Winery, where there are over a dozen types of wine to taste and buy. The winery also serves craft beer and has live entertainment on its outdoor patio. Want to get out on the water? Then, take a fishing charter out of Marblehead and fish for smallmouth bass, steelhead trout, and catfish.
Marblehead is known for being an artist's community. The downtown area has galleries to explore and some unique shops where you can find souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, and gift items to take home.
Headlands Beach State Park
On a warm summer day, the best place for a day trip from Youngstown is Headlands Beach State Park.
This park sits on the shore of Lake Erie, offering lots of water-based fun and activities. Headlands Beach is a great spot for beach glass hunting, and its location makes it a popular place for bird watching.
While at the park, you can sit on the sand and enjoy a relaxing day by the water or bring your fishing gear and head to the breakwall. The cool water is perfect for swimming during the summer, and there's even a concession stand near parking lot 12.
If you prefer a more active day by the water, the mile-long paved trail runs the length of the park. You can take a walk or bring your bike to get some exercise. There's also the Buckeye Trail. This 1.5-mile trail is an easy walk that weaves through the park. It's marked by blue blazes to help you find your way, and it's even pet-friendly.
Nelson Ledges Quarry Park
There's something for everyone who loves the outdoors at Nelson Ledges Quarry Park. It's the only park with biking, camping, cliff diving, scuba diving, basketball, arts, crafts, and more.
The park's aeration system helps create some of the clearest waters in the Tri-State Area, making it ideal for scuba divers. If you're not a diver, grab a mask and snorkel to experience some of the underwater world.
Nelson Ledges Quarry Park has two fishing lakes and a swimming quarry. The spring-fed quarry has an average depth of 30 feet, with lots of rock formations to explore.
If your idea of a perfect day trip is hiking, then you'll have lots of fun at this park. It has four trails ranging from easy to difficult. They take visitors through the Nelson Ledges to rock formations with such imaginative names as Indian Pass, Devil's Icebox, and Old Maid's Kitchen.
When we want to take a day trip from Youngstown, these are some of the places we like to go. If you have a favorite spot within a short drive, come tell us about it at Boardman Mitsubishi. We'll check it out and maybe even add it to our list.