SO MUCH TO SEE IN 2023!

Hocking Hills

Distance from Cleveland: 182 miles

The appeal: family fun, camping, hiking and nature

Where to start: Logan, OH

Quirky roadside attraction: Pencil Sharpener Museum; Logan, OH

(reopening late summer/early fall)

Where to stay: Hocking Hills State Park Lodge & Cabins; Benton Township, OH

Key summer event: Lilyfest, July 14-16

More info: explorehockinghills.com

Venture into southern Ohio and explore the breathtaking natural landscapes along the Hocking Hills Scenic Byway. The scenic route connects the six distinct sectors of Hocking Hills State Park: Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, Cantwell Cliffs, Conkle’s Hollow, Rock House and Old Man’s Cave. Each offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and explore caves, cliffs and waterfalls. If you’re looking for more amenities, head to the Old Man’s Cave area, where you’ll find a visitors center, camping, cabins, and the brand new Hocking Hills State Park Lodge. For the first time, the park has an upscale lodging option amid the crisp, fresh air and serene sounds of nature. The centerpiece of the lobby is the sweeping two-story view of the forest.

MICHIGAN’S UPPER PENINSULA

Michigan's middle finger points to the Mackinac Bridge, an engineering marvel and the gateway to the off-map Upper Peninsula, a rugged and breathtakingly beautiful part of the state sandwiched between lakes Michigan and Superior. Once you’ve crossed the five-mile-long suspension bridge, take a ferry from St. Ignace to car-free Mackinac Island, where you’ll be transported back in time in a horse-drawn carriage clip-clopping through streets surrounded by Victorian architecture, such as the iconic Grand Hotel. As tempting as it is to stay awhile on the island, the rest of the U.P. beckons with dense forests, scenic shorelines punctuated by historic lighthouses (including one you can sleep in) and small towns loaded with rich maritime history.