The Land is slowly becoming accepted as a unique travel destination. In fact, last year, Cleveland broke records in terms of the tourism it attracted. However, we Clevelanders are accustomed to the familiar sights of our landscape. While we still adore the many incredible museums, parks, and other attractions we have, there are several museums in Northeast Ohio that are beyond the boundaries of Greater Cleveland that will feel as new and fresh to us as our landmarks do to visitors.
Pile in the car and buckle up, because these unique destinations are well worth the drive from Cleveland.
1. Clark Gable Museum
Cadiz, Ohio can be found about two hours away from Cleveland. If you've never heard of this community, you're not alone... but you've doubtlessly heard of at least one notable former resident. Clark Gable, perhaps most famously remembered as Rhett Butler in Gone With The Wind, was born in Cadiz. His birthplace is now a museum, and you'll find all sorts of relics from his lifetime, including his 1954 Cadillac.
Click here to plan your tour.
2. First Ladies National Historic Site
Canton may seem to be a bit of a hike from home, but it is worth the journey if you're heading to the First Ladies National Historic Site. It celebrates the contributions of our many First Ladies, and its collection encompasses everything from clothing to photos and documents from their respective timelines. And, of course, the museum is housed in part in Ida McKinley's former home!
Check out the full article here.
3. The Troll Hole Museum
There's something irresistible about those collectible troll dolls. They're so ugly they're cute, and some people have made it their mission to collect them. The Troll Hole Museum in Alliance takes this passion to the extreme, displaying thousands of unexpected troll dolls, statues, paintings, and more.
Find the full article here.
4. The Feline Historical Museum
Cats are a highly unusual species, and yet they've accompanied humans for thousands of years. From the ancient Egyptians to modern memes, we've maintained a consistent fascination with these critters... and that very fascination is celebrated at The Feline Historical Museum in Alliance. Located near the Troll Hole, this unique destination features all sorts of cat-themed items. And, every so often, actual cats are on-site to greet visitors.
Click here to begin planning your visit.
Editor's Note: As of January 2023, the Feline Historical Museum is temporarily closed. Please check the Feline Historical Foundation website for updates before attempting to visit.
5. BibleWalk
BibleWalk is a unique museum. It started as The Living Bible Museum, though it has since evolved into a totally immersive walk through Biblical literature. Its rare Bible collection is endlessly impressive, but its claim to fame is that BibleWalk serves as the only wax museum in Ohio.
Plan your visit today - there are several different tours to choose from!
6. National Construction Equipment Museum
It should come as no surprise that Ohio is home to the nation's construction museum. However, this unique spot in Bowling Green is worth checking out. In fact, it's the only museum of its kind in the world!
Click here for more information.
7. Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum
Remember when the book fair would come to your school and you'd stock up on fun supplies like shaped erasers and pencil sharpeners? Pencil sharpeners come in a number of shapes and sizes, something that's celebrated at the Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum. With more than 3,400 pencil sharpeners in this museum's collection, this petite destination is truly one of a kind.
Click here for additional information.
These museums in Northeast Ohio may not be in our own backyard, but they're worth visiting. Have you journeyed to any of these unique destinations? Which is your favorite?
While you're out and about exploring the Northeast Ohio landscape, be sure to swing through Dover to visit the Victorian Home & Carriage House Museum!
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