We're so used to the landscape here in Greater Cleveland that we, as locals, often overlook its beauty. The rocky bluffs of Lake Erie, the otherworldly design of man-cut quarries, the verdant foliage of our many parks... it's all stunning. On this fun Greater Cleveland area road trip, we're celebrating all that nature and places of our human design have to offer. Prepare to experience pure splendor, because this journey shows that the area we call home has never been more beautiful. If you choose to really make the most out of this road trip, be sure to use our ultimate road trip packing list to make your preparations a piece of cake.

Ready to experience the beauty of Cleveland? You can visit these sites along a 3-hour road trip, or you can budget time to visit them one by one. Either way, you're in for a treat!

1. Solstice Steps

Lakewood Park's Solstice Steps are one of the most coveted tourist destinations in Greater Cleveland. Here, human ingenuity and Mother Nature work together to create an urban oasis. The steps are a relaxing spot to listen to the chorus of frogs on warm summer evenings, or just to stop for a while to take in the splendor of Lake Erie's shoreline. The unique steps are the perfect place to watch the sunset on the solstice, as the structure is positioned to observe the sun at its northernmost point. This is a great start to our scenic road trip around Cleveland.

2. Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument

While the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument in Cleveland's Public Square is truly a work of art, its very features are designed to tell a story. Designed by veteran and Cleveland architect Levi Scofield, this monument honors the Ohioans that fought during the Civil War. Statues and bronze panels on the monument showcase the beginnings of the war, emancipation, and other landmarks. The story told by this monument is humbling, but the artistry in its design is downright awe-inspiring.

3. Towpath Mounds

There's something almost otherworldly about the Towpath Mounds. This unusual portion of the Towpath Trail was unveiled in 2020, and locals and tourists alike have found it to be a unique hiking destination. Here, art and nature work together to create an outdoor experience like no other. Just remember to bring your camera... the views offered by these climbable landmarks are beyond breathtaking.

4. Mill Creek Falls

Located in the Cleveland Metroparks' Garfield Park Reservation, Mill Creek Falls is an impressive 48-foot-tall waterfall. In addition to being the tallest waterfall in the county, this urban gem is actually man-made. At the turn of the century, a railroad company diverted Mill Creek. The stream's new course caused it to spill over natural stone ledges, cascading down into a stunning ravine. This waterfall is just paces away from the parking lot!

5. West Creek Reservation

West Creek Reservation in Parma is an undercelebrated Cleveland Metroparks greenspace. This beautiful park has forest, gorges, and Lookout Ridge, one of the most breathtaking overlooks in the Metroparks. At about 1.5 miles in length, the trail to get to the ridge isn't too challenging... but the payoff will absolutely take your breath away. You'll find yourself more than 1,000 feet above sea level and facing the stunning Cleveland skyline! This is such a great stop on one of the best road trips near Cleveland.

6. Worden's Ledges

As the southernmost landscape in the Cleveland Metroparks, Hinckley Reservation might seem like it's a bit off the beaten path. However, it hides pure splendor... especially at Worden's Ledges, where historic moss-covered rock carvings are waiting to greet hikers. This portion of the park is a bit untamed and rocky, but a trek through the woods will take you to carvings like this ship. There's even a sphinx that's free-standing, which must have been an unbelievably time-consuming task in the 1940s. It was at that time when these stunning carvings were made by Noble Stuart, who actually lived on the property. Today, eight decades later, his work is just as striking as it was when he allowed his artistic talent to flourish in secret.

7. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the most majestic sites in all of Northeast Ohio... and it's also the only national park in the state. Featuring over 32,500 acres of unimaginable beauty, this park has lakes, streams, rivers, forests, wetlands, and gorgeous views, not to mention wildflower viewing, birdwatching, and easy access to hiking trails. Located in neighboring Summit County, this gorgeous park has something for everyone. Plus, portions of it are open after dark, which means it's a romantic place to catch the sunset!

8. The Holden Arboretum

Want to feel like you've stepped inside a fairytale? Just pay a visit to the Holden Arboretum. In this natural space and outdoor laboratory, unique plant species flourish alongside unusual outdoor art exhibits. The various on-site gardens are magical pieces of landscaping, and an aerial boardwalk practically immerses you in the forest canopy. There's something for everyone at the Arboretum... just don't forget your camera!

9. Paine Falls Park

Paine Falls Park is truly a Northeast Ohio gem. This 25-foot-tall tiered waterfall is stunning all year round. The waterfall overlook is close enough to the road for a quick and easy trek. In fact, you can even drive over it... though the view from the road is nothing compared to facing the falls head-on. This Lake Metroparks spot is too scenic to pass up!

There's so much to explore along this epic Greater Cleveland area road trip! Which destination is your favorite? If you have been to any of these places, let us know about your experience. Share your thoughts in the comment section below along with your favorite Ohio road trips. We love to hear from you!