States #17, 18, 19, and 20: Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Tennessee
Pittsburgh and the Road South
Our road trip continued with a stop in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a city known for its numerous bridges and vibrant arts scene. We explored its rich history, strolling along the picturesque riverfront, before heading up to Grandview Avenue, a road which offers unique vantage points of the city below.
Continuing our journey southward, we made our way through the charming state of Kentucky. Known for its bourbon distilleries and rolling hills, the scenic drives through the countryside were a treat for the eyes.
Youngstown and Morgantown
Our road trip brought us to the quaint towns of Youngstown, Ohio, and Morgantown, West Virginia. These lesser-known destinations surprised us with their vibrant local culture and welcoming communities.
We immersed ourselves in the local charm, exploring unique landmarks and enjoying the warmth of small-town hospitality within these hidden gems along the way.
Exploring Richmond, Kentucky
Arriving in Richmond, Kentucky, we were struck by the city’s perfect blend of history and modernity. From historical monuments and museums to trendy neighborhoods and craft breweries, Richmond offered a diverse range of experiences.
Richmond also provided another glimpse into Kentucky’s history, with the area connected to the early routes through the state and the story of Daniel Boone and Boone Trace.
Heading Back to the Carolinas
Heading back to the Carolinas, we explored local landmarks like the world’s largest fire hydrant and the world’s largest dresser, adding some fun to our trip as we headed to visit friends in Columbia, South Carolina.
We dined on unique cuisine, savoring the flavors of the region.
Pretty Place and the Blue Ridge Mountains
Our journey took a tranquil turn as we headed to western South Carolina to hike in the woods and experience the awe-inspiring “Pretty Place” – the Fred Symmes Chapel atop Standing Stone Mountain.
The views of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains left us speechless, reminding us of the grandeur of Mother Nature.
Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and a Wild Encounter
Our road trip took us next to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, bustling tourist destinations nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Amidst the thrills of the vibrant cities, we had an unexpected encounter with a wild mother bear and her adorable cubs foraging for food – a truly unforgettable moment that reminded us of the untamed beauty of the wilderness.
Four More States and Countless Memories
Our adventurous road trip through the heartland of America was an incredible journey of exploration, connection, and natural wonders.
From vibrant cities to serene mountains, from mouthwatering cuisine to heartwarming reunions, this road trip continued to be a kaleidoscope of experiences.
As we journeyed onward, we carried with us cherished memories and a profound appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our vast country and the captivating landscapes that make America so extraordinary.
Where I Stayed:
Residence Inn Durham
The Residence Inn Durham gave me a comfortable base in North Carolina’s Research Triangle and I had a medical appointment at the nearby VA hospital. Durham has grown into a lively city known for its universities, restaurants, and revitalized downtown. The extra space and residential feel of a Residence Inn made it easy to settle in after a day of exploring. It was another useful stop as I worked my way through the Carolinas.
Baymont by Wyndham Youngstown
Located on Belmont Avenue just off I-80, the Baymont by Wyndham Youngstown was a convenient stop during our road trip through Ohio. The hotel offered a heated indoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, free continental breakfast, and free Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable place to relax between drives.
There was also an excellent on-site Mexican restaurant, Casa Ramirez, which was a convenient option for a meal without having to leave the hotel. Its location put us within easy reach of Youngstown State University, downtown Youngstown, and several of the area’s attractions.
TownePlace Suites, Richmond, Kentucky
In Richmond, Kentucky, we stayed at the TownePlace Suites, another extended-stay property that provided plenty of space and the comforts of home. The suites feature fully equipped kitchens, making them particularly convenient for travelers spending several nights on the road. One of the best parts of this stay was how easy dinner turned out to be – we simply walked to Texas Roadhouse for a meal rather than getting back in the car.
Residence Inn Morgantown Medical Center Area
The Residence Inn Morgantown Medical Center Area gave me a convenient base in Morgantown, right near West Virginia University and the city’s medical center. The all-suite setup provided more of a home-away-from-home feel, with full kitchens and separate living areas. Its location also made it easy to get around the university and medical district, and the hotel offers a complimentary breakfast and fitness center. Morgantown’s hills and setting along the Monongahela River made exploring the area an interesting part of the stay.
Residence Inn Dayton Beavercreek
The Residence Inn Dayton Beavercreek was a comfortable stop in the Dayton area, conveniently located near Fairfield Commons and plenty of restaurants and shopping. The spacious suites with full kitchens made it feel more like an apartment than a traditional hotel room. It was also well situated for visiting Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. I enjoyed having a little extra space to settle in while exploring the Dayton area.
Marriott at the University of Dayton
The Marriott at the University of Dayton was a particularly interesting place to stay because of its setting on the University of Dayton campus. The hotel incorporates Dayton’s aviation heritage into its design, including tributes to the Wright brothers, which seemed especially appropriate for this part of Ohio. I also enjoyed the hotel’s unusual indoor-outdoor connected swimming pool and its large fitness center. With the university and the city’s aviation history nearby, it was a memorable stop in Dayton.
TownePlace Suites Huntington
The TownePlace Suites Huntington gave me a comfortable base in Huntington, West Virginia, with the apartment-style setup that makes this brand convenient for longer stays. Each suite includes a full kitchen and separate living and sleeping areas, giving me considerably more room than a standard hotel room. The location was also convenient for Marshall University and exploring Huntington. It was a practical place to relax and recharge while traveling through West Virginia.
Residence Inn Charleston, West Virginia
The Residence Inn Charleston gave me a convenient base for exploring West Virginia’s capital city and the surrounding Kanawha Valley. Charleston has an interesting mix of state government, Appalachian culture, historic neighborhoods, and the Kanawha River running through the middle of the city. The Residence Inn’s suite-style accommodations made it easy to settle in and feel at home for a few days. It was a comfortable stop as I continued my travels through West Virginia.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Lima
The Fairfield Inn & Suites Lima was a convenient stop in northwestern Ohio, just off the main roads and close to the University of Northwestern Ohio. The hotel offered the familiar Fairfield combination of complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, fitness center, and comfortable rooms. Lima also provided an interesting glimpse of another Ohio community away from the state’s larger cities. It was an easy and comfortable place to spend the night while continuing my journey.
Fairfield Inn & Suites Chillicothe, Ohio
The Fairfield Inn & Suites Chillicothe put me near the historic heart of one of southern Ohio’s oldest communities. Chillicothe was Ohio’s first and third capital, and the area is particularly interesting for its Native American and early Ohio history, including the nearby Hopewell earthworks and Adena Mansion. The hotel was only about a mile and a half from historic downtown and provided an indoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary hot breakfast. It made a comfortable base for exploring a part of Ohio with considerably more history than I expected.
Residence Inn Columbus Worthington
The Residence Inn Columbus Worthington gave me a convenient base on the north side of Columbus. Worthington has a more suburban and residential character than downtown Columbus, while still providing easy access to the city and its attractions. The Residence Inn’s suite-style accommodations were especially convenient for settling in after a day of traveling. It was another comfortable stop as I made my way through Ohio.