This Epic One-Day Road Trip Across Ohio Is Full Of Adventures From Sunrise To Sunset

Ohio may not be the biggest state, but it's full of amazing attractions and bucket-list-worthy destinations -- so much so that it would take a lifetime to visit them all. So today, we're starting a bit smaller, with a day-trip itinerary that's still quite ambitious. If you have a tank of gas and a day to spare, we have the ultimate adventure for you! This epic one-day road trip across Ohio is full of fun from sunrise to sunset, offering an unrivaled experience of the Buckeye State you're sure to remember.

Our Epic One Day Road Trip Across Ohio is non-stop action from start to finish, guaranteeing you'll experience the Buckeye State like never before!

Total trip time is 3.5 hours, excluding time spent at each destination. Given how awesome each of these places is, we recommend making the most of your time at each stop! View a customizable Google Map to plan your route.

Our trip begins in the beautiful Ohio State Capital, at one of the state's most legendary places: COSI.

This massive museum, known formally as the Center of Science and Industry, is unlike any other in the country, and takes visitors on far-away trips across the planet -- and solar system -- all without leaving Ohio!

Whether you're young or young at heart, COSI is sure to capture your imagination and curiosity!

Next, we're off for a literal breath of fresh air at the incomparable Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

This glorious gem in Columbus spans about 13 acres and is comprised of the Conservatory building (which houses carnivorous plants and other amazing flora), The Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden, and the Grand Mallway.

If you have kids in tow, this is an excellent place to let them run amok before hopping back in the car! It's also a lovely place for adults to wander, too.

When your stomach starts rumbling, we recommend a detour to a totally-Ohio restaurant: Talita's Southwest Cafe.

Here, you can indulge in chili, queso, and a true Ohio classic: the coney! Whether you're a diehard Skyline Chili aficionado or eschew the culinary masterpiece that is Cincinnati Chili, Talita's is a legendary Ohio eatery that's sure to tempt and tantalize your tastebuds.

Fortified and feeling brave? Then you're ready for our next destination: The Ohio State Reformatory.

Tour the intact set of "The Shawshank Redemption" at this only-in-Ohio landmark. Whether you're reliving scenes from classic films, hunting for the paranormal, or basking in beautiful Romanesque architecture, this place is truly unlike any other in the state!

No judgment if you simply want to drive past and wave "hello" from the car, however...

Curious to take a peek inside? Check out this video from TheDailyWoo:

Another stunningly beautiful building in Ohio, Stan Hywet Hall & Garden is a true hidden gem. It's located in the heart of Akron, but feels worlds away from this industrial hub.

Wander the grounds, traipse through a tree tunnel, and let yourself fall head-over-heels in love with the beautiful Buckeye State!

We're ending the day at one of the most beautiful places in all of Ohio: University Circle.

Hailed as the "neighborhood without boundaries," University Circle is a beautiful and bustling community space that epitomizes the warm and welcoming culture of Ohio.

There are plenty of spots within this mile-sized neighborhood where you can grab something delicious to eat and enjoy al fresco in one of the green spaces. And the sunsets here? Swoon!

Looking for more road trips in the Buckeye State? This family-friendly trip visits some of our state's most noteworthy roadside attractions, and is sure to satisfy your wanderlust!