These 9 Beautiful Byways In Ohio Are Perfect For A Scenic Drive
By April Dray|Updated on August 20, 2023(Originally published May 10, 2016)
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April Dray
Author
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
A peaceful countryside or coastal drive might be just what you need. Thankfully, Ohio is home to some beautiful byways that give you the opportunity to embrace the beauty of the state via a scenic drive. Here are nine of our favorite Ohio byways for your travel bucket list. See how many you’ve traveled and let us know which Ohio scenic byways are your personal favorites. They are all so beautiful in their own ways!
1. The Ohio Amish Country Byway (the SR 557/SR 643/SR 93 trip)
For a leisurely drive back to a simpler time in life, explore the rolling hills of Ohio Amish Country in Holmes County. The picture above was taken near Charm.
2. The Ohio River Scenic Byway (the U.S. Hwy 50/U.S. Hwy 52/SR 7/SR 338/SR 124/ U.S. Hwy 7 trip)
Travel along the Ohio River and visit several of Ohio's charming small towns. Pictured is the view of the river from Gallipolis' Mound Hill Cemetery. Gallipolis is one of the many small towns along the river you will encounter on this drive.
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3. Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail (the U.S.Hwy 50/SR 531 trip)
For a weekend trip, visit Lake Erie and the historic lighthouses that dot the shore. Begin east of Cleveland at the Conneaut West Breakwater Lighthouse.
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4. The National Forest Covered Bridge Scenic Byway (the SR 26 from Marietta to Woodsfield trip)
National Forest Covered Bridge Scenic Byway, 707 Greene St, Marietta, OH 45750, USA
Drive through America's shortest and longest covered bridge along this scenic route, which features 18 covered bridges in Ashtabula County. Begin your drive at the Netcher Road bridge near Jefferson and continue to the Smolen-Gulf Bridge (pictured) near the Ashtabula River.
This 26.4-mile byway along State Route 374 winds its way through the scenic Hocking Hills and Hocking Hills State Forest. The photographer captured a stunning October sunrise on this magical road within the Hocking Hills.
Following parts of the original route of the Miami and Erie Canal, this 54-mile byway along Route 66 ends in Delphos in Allen County. We are sure you will agree that this drive is one of the best scenic drives in Ohio!
8. Wally Road Scenic Byway (from Greer to Loudonville)
This drive is one of the most historical Ohio scenic routes out there. What was once the "Wally," (the Toledo, Walhonding Valley and Ohio Railroad) has now ceased operations, but parts of the 45-mile route are featured along what is now the Wally Road Scenic Byway.
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9. Maumee Valley Scenic Byway (River Road, SR. 110, SR 65, I-75)
At nearly 90 miles, this scenic byway begins in the city of Defiance, Ohio, passes through the historic towns of Grand Rapids, Perrysburg, and Rossford, and ends at I-75.
What is your favorite of the best driving roads in Ohio? How many of these pretty spots have you been to? We would love to hear all about your experiences on these lovely roads. Share your photos, opinions, and experiences with us in the comments section. And when you are preparing for any of these beautiful drives, be sure you take a look at The Ultimate Road Trip Packing List by OnlyInYourState so you can be certain you have everything you need for a successful day of driving!
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