The 2024 total eclipse saw an influx of an estimated 200,000 visitors to the Cleveland area–hopefully you were able to experience that moment of awe for yourself! All those folks seeing our backyards for potentially the first time got us thinking about the spots in and around the Cleveland area that are worth traveling to. 

Cleveland really has it all, with a close proximity to diverse scenery like meadows, forests, cityscapes and quintessential small towns. From scenic drives to day trip destinations, we’re going to run down some of the top spots to put on your summer Sunday drivin’ list, whether you’re after the destination or looking to savor the journey. We’ll also clue you in on how to keep your car in tip top shape, whatever your plans.

Dreamy Drives

These drives are only a relative few miles from home, but the scenery makes you feel like you’re a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 

Riverview Road: Running somewhat parallel to the Cuyahoga River, from Independence to Akron, this quick drive can satisfy your need to get up and out of your daily routine. Bookended by Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Sand Run Metro Park, this isn’t a long drive, but it can transport you in time, with opportunities for historical stops along the way. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, too. This could be an afternoon drive, but it could also be on the way to a destination, like the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

Valley Parkway: From Rocky River down to North Royalton, the Valley Parkway is just south of the Rocky River Reservation, which spans the Northeast Ohio communities of Berea, Brook Park, Cleveland, Fairview Park, Lakewood, North Olmsted, Olmsted Township, and Rocky River and is worth a visit in its own right.

Canal Road: The Ohio & Erie Canalway, also known as part of America’s Byway, traces as closely as possible the historic path of the Ohio & Erie Canal. This inland waterway was the nation's first, and served to link the Great Lakes with the Gulf of Mexico. Canal Road winds around parks and the towpath trail and passes through several towns that sprung up around the original canal. This route is a key part of Cleveland’s industrial history, and offers opportunities to get out and stretch your legs.

Hinckley Reservation: East Drive and Metropolitan Park W both run parallel to Hinckley Lake and this reservation is a much-loved part of the greater Cleveland Metroparks system. Nearby Whipps Ledges offers a destination to your drive, and if you time your trip right (March 15th to be exact) you can witness the annual return of Hinckley's buzzards–it happens just like clockwork, every year. 

Chagrin River Road: If you want to get out on that two-lane highway like road-trippers from decades past, then Chagrin River Road is calling your name. You’ll cruise right alongside the Chagrin River and wind from the North Chagrin Nature Reservation to the South Chagrin Reservation. Keep an eye out for historic architecture and local wildlife along the way.

Ohio State Route 303: For a long-distance drive that takes you from one scenic view to the next, it’s time to hop on OH-303, from Hinckley to Hudson. This route runs through the Cleveland Metroparks Hinckley Reservation and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park and takes in historic scenes, homes, and villages, along with plenty of Ohio’s stunning natural beauty.

Ohio State Route 534: From Garfield north to Geneva-on-the-Lake, this ride takes you under covered bridges and through Amish communities. Be sure to take a pit stop along the way at the oldest general store in the state. And Geneva-on-the-Lake is a great destination in its own right.

Notice a trend here? Ohio’s Metroparks system and the National Park system provide the backdrop for some of the best drives around, paired with activities to get you out of the car as well. So take advantage of the views and see what there is to be seen this summer in Ohio!

Day Trippin’

Besides the state routes running in every direction across Ohio’s varied terrain, there are some specific towns and regions that make for great destinations for a sunny summer drive. Let’s run through a few:

• Oberlin, OH: a small town with a college town vibe
• Marietta, OH: historic town on the Ohio River
• Amish Country, OH: step back in time and enjoy bucolic scenery and top-notch home cooking 
• Presque Isle / Erie, PA: relax on the lake’s beach or enjoy amusement parks and family fun
• Marblehead, OH: visit one of the most scenic lighthouses you’ll see near a lake
• Kelleys Island / Put-In-Bay Island: stay for the day or a long weekend to enjoy wineries, parks, and all things waterfront

After The Drive, It’s Time to Wash Your Car

Whether you’re just out for an afternoon spin, or you’re making a day trip out of it, every drive can cause grit, pollen, and debris to build up on your vehicle. Baked-on insect remains can quickly break down your car’s protective finish and the best hiking trip of the summer can bring dirt and dust into your vehicle’s cabin. And if your four-legged best friend is along for the ride too, then there’s hair and who knows what else to contend with when it comes time to clean. The easiest way to get your car back to baseline? Visit your local car wash in North Olmsted, Ohio.

Andy’s Auto Wash is all about enjoying the best that summer has to offer–worry about the cleanup later. That could even mean swinging by our car wash in North Olmsted on the drive home, after an epic offroading adventure. Whether you’re looking for auto detailing near Cleveland or need an exterior and interior deep clean, we’ve got you covered. Check us out today!