Life on the lake can be beautiful, and there’s certainly a reason Clevelanders know their home as the best location in the nation. However, spending a lifetime in a bustling, high-energy city can feel exhausting. If you’re craving a road trip, there’s one dreamy destination that’s under two hours south – close enough for a quick weekend trip, or even a day trip if you’re especially adventurous. The area is endlessly charming and includes a mystical natural landscape, both of which are features that will make a visit your most memorable weekend getaway.
Welcome to Cambridge, Ohio!
Cambridge Main Street/Facebook This quaint community is about two hours from Cleveland and is a downright enchanting destination for a road trip. It is home to about 11,000 residents; a small population for such a vast area with so much charm.
Though the community is a bit of a drive from Cleveland, it’s close enough for a quick weekend trip - or a longer stay, if you fall in love with the area.
Cambridge Main Street/Facebook If you’ve never driven from Cleveland into this lovely expanse of Guernsey County, you are in for an absolute treat. The area is in the Appalachian Plateau of the Appalachian Mountains, meaning its landscape differs dramatically from ours up north. Plus, the area abounds with a surprising history that you’ll likely uncover during your stay.
Here you’ll find nature, beauty, and fun for the whole family.
Salt Fork State Park/Facebook While many road trip destinations seem to appeal to particular groups, there is something that everyone can enjoy in this community. Children will adore hiking, parents will enjoy unwinding at fine restaurants, and photographers will fall in love with Cambridge’s picturesque charm.
A trek through the community’s state park is sure to take your breath away, so be sure to bring along hiking gear.
Megan E/TripAdvisor Hiking boots, bug spray, and water bottles are a must for this journey, as Salt Fork State Park will have you longing to spend time in the great outdoors. Its 17,229 acres are full of discoveries waiting to be made. You can find more information here.
You’re sure to love the spacious accommodations of the park’s cozy lodge…
Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center/Facebook Want to spend some time in nature, but need an escape with electricity and plumbing? You truly can’t go wrong with a stay in Salt Fork State Park Lodge.
…Though its campus will make you feel like you’re staying at an exclusive resort.
Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center/Facebook This lodge is truly a treat if you’re looking for something upscale. If you crave a more rustic escape, consider retreating to a cabin or campsite.
If the great outdoors has you feeling overwhelmed, you might want to spend some time exploring a local museum.
Al W/TripAdvisor Have you ever heard of The National Museum of Cambridge Glass? This fascinating museum explores the history of the Cambridge Glass Company by displaying breathtaking and fragile pieces of glass.
Or you can unwind at the area’s finest winery.
Al W/TripAdvisor Is there anything as sweet as Ohio grapes? Georgetown Vineyards knows that this fruit is only made sweeter when paired with romantic views and excellent service.
When you work up an appetite exploring the area, you won’t have to look far for delicious dining.
The Bear’s Den Steakhouse/Facebook With delicious comfort foods and a downright cozy atmosphere, it’s no wonder The Bear’s Den Steakhouse has become an area favorite. It’s one of the highest rated eateries in the area, and locals and visitors alike can’t get enough of their mouthwatering meals.
If you’re craving an escape from Cleveland, this is one community that you’re sure to fall in love with.
Cambridge Main Street/Facebook
This quaint community is about two hours from Cleveland and is a downright enchanting destination for a road trip. It is home to about 11,000 residents; a small population for such a vast area with so much charm.
If you’ve never driven from Cleveland into this lovely expanse of Guernsey County, you are in for an absolute treat. The area is in the Appalachian Plateau of the Appalachian Mountains, meaning its landscape differs dramatically from ours up north. Plus, the area abounds with a surprising history that you’ll likely uncover during your stay.
Salt Fork State Park/Facebook
While many road trip destinations seem to appeal to particular groups, there is something that everyone can enjoy in this community. Children will adore hiking, parents will enjoy unwinding at fine restaurants, and photographers will fall in love with Cambridge’s picturesque charm.
Megan E/TripAdvisor
Hiking boots, bug spray, and water bottles are a must for this journey, as Salt Fork State Park will have you longing to spend time in the great outdoors. Its 17,229 acres are full of discoveries waiting to be made. You can find more information here.
Salt Fork Lodge and Conference Center/Facebook
Want to spend some time in nature, but need an escape with electricity and plumbing? You truly can’t go wrong with a stay in Salt Fork State Park Lodge.
This lodge is truly a treat if you’re looking for something upscale. If you crave a more rustic escape, consider retreating to a cabin or campsite.
Al W/TripAdvisor
Have you ever heard of The National Museum of Cambridge Glass? This fascinating museum explores the history of the Cambridge Glass Company by displaying breathtaking and fragile pieces of glass.
Is there anything as sweet as Ohio grapes? Georgetown Vineyards knows that this fruit is only made sweeter when paired with romantic views and excellent service.
The Bear’s Den Steakhouse/Facebook
With delicious comfort foods and a downright cozy atmosphere, it’s no wonder The Bear’s Den Steakhouse has become an area favorite. It’s one of the highest rated eateries in the area, and locals and visitors alike can’t get enough of their mouthwatering meals.
At under two hours from home, this gorgeous little community is an easy weekend trip from Cleveland. Have you explored the stunning Salt Fork State Park? We’d love to see some of your photos in the comments! You can also tag us on Instagram for a chance to have your photos featured.
Love to explore local parks during your road trips? You will fall in love with Fossil Park, a free and friendly road trip destination.
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