It's always a good time for a quick getaway. Luckily, we have lots of fun destinations to choose from within a short drive from Cincinnati.
Check out one of these 10 day trip spots, all under three hours outside of Cincinnati, perfect for a day trip with friends and family:
- Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – Just an easy drive, Indy has all sorts of things to discover. One of the coolest things in the city is the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. With over fifteen exhibits, this indoor and outdoor museum is a mecca for all things fun and educational, including Dinosaurs and super heroes. Indy is also home to the accredited Indianapolis Zoo.
Approximate Road Trip Time – 2 hours - Louisville Slugger Museum – After visiting where the most exciting two minutes in sports takes place annually, check out the home of one the most famous pieces of sporting equipment, the Louisville Slugger Baseball bat. Having personally done this experience, the Louisville Slugger Museum is a super cool thing to do for baseball fans and non-fans alike. Right now, there is even a limited edition exhibit celebrating the classic film “The Sandlot”.
Approximate Road Trip Time – 1.5 hours - Red River Gorge – Among the scrolling hills of Kentucky, just past Louisville, sits Red River Gorge. This beautiful state park is a great place to spend the day hiking or the night camping. Touting a beautiful 29,000 acres of land, Red River Gorge is a National Archaeological District, a National Historic Place, and the place is absolutely stunning.
Approximate Road Trip Time – 2.25 hours - Butler County Donut Trail – Established in 2016, the Butler County Donut Trail spans 80 miles and involves 12 donut shops. Pick up a “Donut Passport” to track your donut stops. Once you complete the passport, you will get an exclusive 2018 Donut Trail T-Shirt! If that isn’t enough, maybe some Orange Juice, Cheesecake, German Chocolate, and Banana Pudding (Just to name a few) can convince you completely.
Approximate Road Trip Time – varies - Ravenwood Castle – If you really want to disconnect, spend a night at the Ravenwood Castle, located right outside of Hocking Hills State Park. With no cable, no WiFi, and no cell connection, Ravenwood creates what today is a unique opportunity to truly disconnect and enjoy the beauty all around you. Enjoy interacting with the people around you, the roaring fire, and what are supposed to be some awesome cinnamon rolls.
Approximate Road Trip Time – 2.5 hours - Bourbon Trail – Explore the birthplace of Bourbon on this 14 distillery tour. The world-famous craft culture in Kentucky is unlike anywhere else in the world, as are the drinks, like Mint Juleps and Old Fashions. Enjoy the gorgeous scenery from one distillery to the next, while eating, drinking, and being merry.
Approximate Road Trip Time – 2 hours - Hocking Hills – Another naturally amazing place to visit is the gorgeous scenery of Hocking Hills, OH. This region has many parks to explore, beautiful places to lodge, and delicious food to enjoy. Discover Parks like Old Man’s Cove, Ash Cave, Rock House, Cedar Falls, and Cantwell Cliffs, or one of the many state parks and nature preserves.
Approximate Road Trip Time – 2.25 hours - Yellow Springs – Named one of “Americas Coolest Small Towns” by Budget Travel, Yellow Springs Ohio features an eclectic mix of shops, eateries, theatres, music, and galleries of many types. The town also has multiple orchards and over 2,000 acres of woods, complete with cycle and hiking trails.
Approximate Road Trip Time – 1.25 hours - COSI Center of Science and Industry – The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago is actually the inspiration for this museum. This 320,000 square foot, state of the art museum has incredible exhibits for visitors of all ages. Take a walkthrough the Paleolithic era with the Dinosaurs, discover ancient Egypt, and even take a ride through the Hot Wheels exhibit.
Approximate Road Trip Time – 1.75 hours - Brown County – The town of Brown County is what small-town USA dreams are made of. Nestled in an idyllic part of Indiana with bountiful woodlands and outdoor adventures like zip lining, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Enjoy art and food throughout town and indulge in all sorts of homemade treats, both to eat and drink.
Approximate Road Trip Time – 2.25 hours
You won't regret taking some time to escape with friends or family to find adventure in one of the many nearby, unique places surrounding Cincinnati. After your getaway, enjoy coming back to the place we all call home.
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