At Kings Toyota, it goes without saying that we love to drive. Piling the family in the car for a leisurely drive is a great way to unwind and appreciate the beauty of all the areas around Cincinnati. You may be looking for a short drive to appreciate the blooming trees on a lovely spring Sunday afternoon, or you may want to opt for a more scenic route on the way to your final destination. However you enjoy a drive, here are some suggestions starting from Cincinnati, with views and stops to inspire.
1. Highway 50
From downtown Cincinnati, you can hop on Highway 50 and find yourself connected to a route that travels 3,073 miles from Ocean City, Maryland to Sacramento, California. The section that crosses Cincinnati travels along the Ohio River and passes through farmland, railroad tracks, woodland, and even industrial and residential neighborhoods, offering opportunities for detours when the mood strikes you.
The Ohio River looms large in all the roads along its banks, connecting modern times to the historical era when it was a vibrant and invaluable source of commerce and industry.
2. George Street Bridge
About 30 miles to the southwest on Highway 50, you'll find The George Street Bridge in Aurora, Indiana. Built in 1887, the striking red bridge is a fine example of a truss bridge and stands as a showpiece of picturesque downtown Aurora. You can take a few minutes to stretch your legs while exploring the shops and restaurants in Aurora.
Unique and historic buildings on Main Street host a variety of businesses and a vibrant art scene. From there, Indiana 56 takes over from Highway 50 to become the Ohio River Byway and winds its way along the banks south to the picturesque river town of Rising Sun.
3. Anderson Ferry
Though it's technically more of a ride than a drive, you access the historic Anderson Ferry to get from western Cincinnati to northern Kentucky while bypassing busier roads and highways. The ferry has been in constant operation since 1817 when it was powered by horses turning a wooden wheel. In modern times, it's used by commuters and sightseers alike for an easy 15-minute shortcut across the Ohio River. From there, you can connect to Kentucky Highway 20 for a view of the Ohio River banks from the other side.
3. Kentucky Route 20
Once you disembark the ferry, you can make your way to Route 20 to experience the Kentucky side of the Ohio River Byway. The road travels alongside the interstate but connects you to the rolling hills and farmland of northern Kentucky. Once you arrive at the town of Petersburg, you then follow the river's winding path for a view of the river. Stop at the shops and restaurants in the towns along the way for a sample of the quiet life.
4. Rabbit Hash, Kentucky
Cincinnati is uniquely located at the southern edge of Ohio and minutes from Kentucky and Indiana. The Ohio River weaves its way to provide the state borders, offering scenic drives to explore in all directions. On the Kentucky side of the river, head south from Cincinnati to Union, Kentucky. You can go through Covington, Kentucky, and weave through the country on Highway 25 to Highway 42.
You can also hop on Interstate 75 to Union and join Highway 536 for 12 curvy miles of picturesque driving. When you're ready for a stop, check out the Rabbit Hash General Store, a historical American relic that's been in operation since 1831, surviving wars, economic challenges, multiple floods, and the advancement of the modern era. Today, it stands as a monument to a bygone era and a place for gathering for a cold drink, a snack, and a souvenir in the beautiful countryside.
5. Corn Country
Heading northwest out of Cincinnati, the city sights melt away. Businesses and houses start to be further spaced out, and the edges of farm country start to come into view. Once you get to the town of Ross, you're in corn country. Acres and acres of corn crops line either side of Highway 27 heading north to Oxford, Liberty, and Richmond.
A stop at the fresh produce market at Burwinkel Farms is always worth the trip. In the fall, the farm is transformed into a family fun extravaganza. Activities include a corn maze, a pick-your-own pumpkin patch, a sunflower field, and activities for kids of all ages. Burwinkel Farms has been a family operation for over 100 years and provides produce to dozens of farm stands in northern Ohio. Every summer, the farmers hire local teenagers to harvest the crops, providing a sense of camaraderie and community to the area.
6. New Richmond, Ohio
We've talked about what happens when you go west on Highway 50, but for this drive, head east. Follow the river to Highway 52 and head south for about 20 miles to New Richmond. The whole route follows the curve of the river for a beautiful water view the whole way. New Richmond was founded in 1814 by the Revolutionary War hero Jacob Richmond as a center of commerce supported by steamboats on the riverway.
Despite its proximity to slaveholding Kentucky, New Richmond became a center of the abolitionist movement and Underground Railroad activity. Prominent community members denounced slavery in 1834, and James G. Birney published an abolitionist newspaper in 1836. New Richmond remains an important route on America's path to freedom. Many historical structures remain intact for a visit.
Cincinnati is a perfect starting point for a scenic drive. The city itself has an inspiring skyline that quickly leads to gorgeous roads along the Ohio River, into Ohio farm country, and a few short miles from experiencing the culture and experiences of Kentucky and Indiana. All of us at Kings Toyota hope these suggestions inspire you to get out and drive. Whether you follow the highways or find some back roads to get lost on, let us know other scenic views you enjoy!
Categories:
Community Events
