The United States may not be a particularly old country in the grand scheme of things, but that hasn't stopped it from amassing a great deal of folklore. From Paul Bunyan to Davy Crockett and Molly Pitcher, there's no shortage of figures that have inspired the American imagination for generations. Of all the tall tales, few are quite as entrancing or as everlasting as that of Johnny Appleseed. Here in Northeast Ohio, his name pops up quite a bit (especially in association with autumn apple festivals), and there's good reason for that. The legacy of Johnny Appleseed in Ohio is as abundant as the trees he once famously planted.
Johnny Appleseed is an iconic figure in American folklore, boasting a legacy that spans generations.
School children around the nation know of Johnny Appleseed. His life was spent planting apple trees, bringing sweetness to the still-wild American frontier.
advertisement
As a mythological figure, Johnny Appleseed is remembered as a "stranger among strangers." Nomadic, quirky, and considered to be "crazy" by some, this mushpot-wearing traveler earned his place in American legend.
However, many Americans may not realize that Johnny Appleseed was, indeed, a real man.
John Chapman was born in Massachusetts in 1774, though his journey would take him west into the Great Lakes region. In Ohio, he planted various apple nurseries as an investment in his future. That's where the folklore about ol' Johnny Appleseed went wrong... he didn't randomly plant trees as he journeyed, but was very intentional in curating small nurseries.
One thing that folklore got right was Johnny Appleseed's legacy as a storyteller. He was a bit of a nomad, and he often told stories of his travels in exchange for a place to stay for the night. He loved animals and was vegetarian, and he wore eclectic clothing by choice.
If you head a bit south of Cleveland, you'll find that this legend's legacy is alive and well along the Johnny Appleseed Historic Byway.
This 30+ mile scenic drive stretches from Loudonville, Ohio down into the Malabar Farm area. The journey from Cleveland into this rural slice of paradise is one I personally love, as the area is rich with natural splendor and rolling hills. I always try to make time to canoe along the Mohican River while I'm in the area, as it's truly the best way to take in the natural landscape.
This lovely structure is The Workman Cabin, and it's one of the more eye-catching spots in Loudonville. The home was built circa 1840, and it offers visitors some perspective on what the landscape may have looked like when Johnny Appleseed was a local visitor. As John Chapman passed away March 18, 1845, one can envision this region of the U.S. as the untamed frontier, with mostly modest landmarks.
A few of the places along the scenic drive are visitor-friendly, allowing you to engage with history firsthand.
I love exploring old cemeteries, as they offer a glimpse into the past. Many headstones have symbols with a particular meaning, and it's fun to look for old willows, clasped hands, and more on historic headstones.
At this particular cemetery, early settlers of the area rest eternally. You can visit the resting place of individuals who actually knew Johnny Appleseed back in the day, including folklorist and author Rosella Rice. Her early descriptions of Johnny Appleseed have, arguably, helped elevate him to the folkloric status he holds today.
And you'll even get to visit some places owned by John "Johnny Appleseed" Chapman himself.
As mentioned previously, Chapman didn't just plant apple trees as he moved from place to place. In fact, he was very intentional with where he planted them. Chapman purchased several plots of land across Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania, where he planted his nurseries and often paid neighbors to look after them. When he died, he had an estate of 1,200 acres!
Along the way, you'll spot gorgeous views, horse-drawn buggies, and possibly even a few apple trees.
At this point, you may be thinking, Wow, this guy really liked apples. However, understanding the cultural demands of the time helps put this enjoyment into perspective... and brings it into question. In a time where opportunistic settlers were claiming valuable land, potable water wasn't always abundant. Hard apple cider, on the other hand, was safe, reliable, and a common drink of the era. If you think Johnny Appleseed's fruits were for eating, think again!
advertisement
Interestingly, peeling back the veil of anachronism also reveals a fascinating fact on our modern view of apples. While apples from John Chapman's era were bitter and cider-friendly, many of the era's orchards were destroyed in Prohibition. Apple farmers had to shift their attention to sweet, snacking-friendly apples... and with a bit of marketing, the once cider-happy American public embraced this yummy snack.
If all this talk of apples is making you hungry, you'll want to swing by the Malabar Farm Restaurant.
Malabar Farm State Park is one of the many incredible views along this scenic route, and its restaurant is absolutely fantastic. Historic settings meet upscale and indulgent food, ranging from apps and salads to pastas, steak, and fish. There's even a kid's menu, so the whole family can eat here!
Oh, and save room for dessert. I recommend asking about their ever-rotating selection of cheesecake... you won't regret it!
After you eat, you might consider making some time to explore Malabar Farm State Park.
This Richland County park is also a working farm, and it's super fun to visit. Meet farm animals, explore the legacy of one iconic Ohio writer, and even wade into a murder mystery. This place is fun for the whole family, though it honestly merits a whole day trip on its own. There's simply so much to do here!
Oh, and a word of caution: if you're allergic to hay or grass, bring allergy pills. Non-drowsy. Don't make the same mistake I did, or you'll sleep (read: wander confusedly while the rest of your group has fun) through the final portion of the journey.
There are a few more stops on the byway, including a trek through Historic Mifflin.
You'll find a great deal of history along this corridor, from stunning architecture to covivial parks that were once private farmland. Removed from the hustle and bustle of the Cleveland area, life just moves at a slower pace here.
advertisement
If you're a history buff, be sure to check out any historical markers you see along the way. There are a great deal of them along this route, and you'll love the knowledge they offer up.
All in all, expect stunning windshield views, oodles of history, and unexpected surprises as you drive this route Johnny Appleseed once walked.
Though he's been gone for nearly two centuries, the legacy of Johnny Appleseed in Ohio is rich. A trip along the Johnny Appleseed Historic Byway will take you to some of his most coveted local sites, and it pairs perfectly with the stunning views the landscape offers.
Want to learn about another legendary figure with local influence? Check out our article on Buffalo Bill to learn about his lawsuit in Cleveland.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
advertisement
Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
advertisement
If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Taking a road trip through Northeast Ohio? A Cleveland scavenger hunt would make things so much more interesting. You see, we've got a distinct local culture that has manifested in identifiable marks on the landscape. Our personality comes through in and around the city, and you'll know it when you see it... but these ten things absolutely scream "Cleveland."
We'll start our scavenger hunt off with an easy one: A Tim Misny ad. This guy's branding is so strong that locals only need to see his iconic eyebrow cock to think, "Tim Misny makes them pay." From billboards to bus stop posters, this guy is all over The Land. I've even seen locals joke online that future archaeologists will eventually assume that Misny was the King of Cleveland, once upon a time.
As the birthplace of rock and roll, Cleveland has a certain reputation to maintain. That's part of the reason why GuitarMania was born, though the trend has arguably expanded beyond just the one style of guitar. All throughout Northeast Ohio, giant guitars are likely to pop up. Whether they're out in the open as a public art display or tucked away inside some local building, you're bound to encounter one somewhere!
In and around Cleveland, the Cleveland Metroparks span over 25,000 acres. That's 18 massive reservations, dozens of parks, and hundreds of miles of trails. Mostly located in Cuyahoga County with one reservation down in Medina County, you're likely to encounter a Cleveland Metroparks sign or two as you're roadtripping through the area. And if you do spot one, pull over and spend some time in nature! Time spent in the Emerald Necklace is always memorable.
I have family members who have since moved out of the area who still stock up on Mr. Hero when they're back in town. This iconic Cleveland restaurant got its start in 1965, and it's headquartered in Middleburg Heights to this day. This specialty sandwich shop is beloved by many locals, with Romanburgers and those iconic Waffer Fries falling firmly into the comfort food category. If you see one during your travels, be sure to make a stop!
Throughout Cleveland, we have six signs to remind us where we live. (Just kidding... mostly.) These iconic, picture-perfect signs are typically located in super scenic locations, so they're fun to seek out. Strike a pose, snap a photo, and get ready to turn your masterpiece into next year's Christmas card.
advertisement
6. The Guardians of Traffic (or a likeness of the Guardians)
Art deco and eye-catching, the Guardians of Traffic are more famous now than ever before. Why? Well, we rebranded our local MLB team in their honor! Since 1932, these massive structures have stood on the Hope Memorial Bridge, overlooking the city skyline. They're visible from the highway, but they're also a topic of local art. Whether you're spotting them on Cleveland merch or a local billboard, you'll know you're in The Land when you see these guys watching over your safe travels.
I just love these things! They're all over the state, but they're especially plentiful in a place like Cleveland where history was made over and over again. From heart-wrenching to jaw-dropping stories, these brown plaques preserve a slice of local history at every location where they're present. You won't regret taking some time to read the story on them!
Cleveland has star-studded roots, as many movies have been filmed here. I've had family members make appearances on the big screen as a result, from The Deer Hunter's wedding scene in St. Theodosius to game scenes in Shooting Stars. Before you take a trip through Cleveland, be sure to watch a few movies filmed here to see if you can spot some of the iconic locations in them. Some cult classics like A Christmas Story might be ones you're already familiar with!
Speaking of movies filmed in Cleveland... these things have, oddly, become a source of local pride. It's not at all unusual to spot these beauties sitting in local windows, preserved in area art, or mixed in amidst the decorations at Cleveland restaurants. Keep your eyes peeled for leg lamps as you're traveling through Cleveland!
In some way, shape, or form, you're bound to encounter pierogies in Cleveland. These delicious dumplings are a local specialty, and many area restaurants tout them with bold signage. Heck, many local business operate around pierogies. It's worth stopping and grabbing a meal if you see pierogies around... nobody does them quite like Clevelanders.
advertisement
This fun Cleveland scavenger hunt will make local road trips and adventures so much more interesting! How many of these do you think you encounter on any given day? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Want to expand your local bucket list? There are over 27 top-rated attractions clustered together, making local adventure effortless.
