Top 5 Scenic Drives in Northeast Ohio and How to Prepare Your Car for the Journey

Few things capture the spirit of summer like a road trip through the rolling hills, lakeshores, and hidden gems of Northeast Ohio. With so many picturesque routes to explore, you can find natural beauty, history, and culture just a short drive from home.

However, before embarking on your journey, it’s essential to make sure your car is ready for the road ahead. At Rad Air Complete Car Care and Tire Centers, we’re proud to help drivers throughout Northeast Ohio prepare for unforgettable summer drives. With 10 convenient locations, Rad Air offers comprehensive pre-trip inspections so you can travel with confidence.

Here’s a look at five of the best scenic drives in Northeast Ohio — plus what you need to do to get your vehicle road-trip ready.

1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Riverview Road

One of the most beloved natural treasures in Ohio, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers a stunning drive along Riverview Road. Stretching from Brecksville to Akron, this 20-mile route winds past lush forests, charming towns, and some of the park’s most famous sites like Brandywine Falls and the Towpath Trail.

Starting Point Address:
Cuyahoga Valley National Park Visitor Center
6947 Riverview Road
Peninsula, OH 44264
View on Google Maps

Closest Rad Air Location:
Rad Air Fairlawn
3900 Medina Road, Fairlawn, OH 44333

Before heading into the park’s winding roads, schedule a pre-trip inspection at Rad Air Fairlawn. Our technicians will check your tires, brakes, fluids, and more to ensure your vehicle can handle both paved and rugged parkways.

2. Amish Country Byway

Experience a slower pace of life along the Amish Country Byway, which spans roughly 160 miles through Holmes County. Drive through Millersburg, Berlin, and Walnut Creek, where rolling farmlands, hand-crafted shops, and traditional bakeries line the scenic route.

Starting Point Address:
Holmes County Chamber of Commerce
6 W Jackson St
Millersburg, OH 44654
View on Google Maps

Closest Rad Air Location:
Rad Air Medina
767 North Court Street, Medina, OH 44256

The rural backroads of Amish Country demand properly maintained tires and brakes. Make sure to stop by Rad Air Medina before your trip to check your suspension system and have your tires inspected for summer travel conditions.

3. Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail

For sweeping lake views, historic lighthouses, and vibrant waterfront towns, the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail is unbeatable. The Northeast Ohio portion runs from Lorain through Cleveland to Ashtabula, featuring stops like the Lorain Lighthouse, Edgewater Park, and the Maritime Museum of Sandusky.

Starting Point Address:
Lorain Lighthouse
1 Lighthouse Dr
Lorain, OH 44052
View on Google Maps

Closest Rad Air Location:
Rad Air Westlake
27051 Detroit Road, Westlake, OH 44145

Planning to cruise along the lakeshore? Visit Rad Air Westlake first. We’ll ensure your car’s cooling system is ready to handle summer temperatures and check your air conditioning so you stay cool while soaking in the lake breezes.

4. Wally Road Scenic Byway

Known as Ohio’s longest designated scenic byway, Wally Road Scenic Byway runs about 10 miles along the Mohican River between Loudonville and Greer. It’s perfect for those who love adventure — from canoeing and kayaking to zip-lining and hiking through dense forests.

Starting Point Address:
Mohican State Park Lodge
1098 Ashland County Rd 3006
Perrysville, OH 44864
View on Google Maps

Closest Rad Air Location:
Rad Air Fairlawn
3900 Medina Road, Akron, OH 44333

Before heading to Mohican country, ensure your tires have the proper tread and your brakes are ready for any unexpected stop on those curvy country roads. Book a service appointment with Rad Air Fairlawn to get your vehicle trail-ready.

5. Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Tour

Tour Ohio’s largest collection of covered bridges, including both the longest and shortest covered bridges in the U.S. The self-guided Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Tour takes you through peaceful farmland, historic villages, and wooded paths ideal for a leisurely, scenic drive.

Starting Point Address:
Ashtabula County Covered Bridge Festival Office
25 W Jefferson St
Jefferson, OH 44047
View on Google Maps

Closest Rad Air Location:
Rad Air Wickliffe
29257 Anderson Road, Wickliffe, OH 44092

Before setting off on your covered bridge adventure, have your steering and suspension systems inspected at Rad Air Wickliffe. These rural roads can be uneven, and a quick check can save you from unexpected issues.

Pre-Trip Vehicle Checklist

No matter which scenic drive you choose, make sure your car is ready for the journey. Here’s a basic pre-trip checklist:

• Oil Change
  Fresh oil ensures your engine stays cool and properly lubricated during long drives.
• Brake Inspection
  Safe stops are crucial on unfamiliar and potentially winding roads.
• Fluid Top-Offs
  Check coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and transmission fluid levels.
• Tire Inspection
  Check for proper inflation, tread depth, and signs of uneven wear or damage.
• Battery Test
  Avoid being stranded with a dead battery — test and clean battery terminals beforehand.
• Lights and Wipers Check
  Confirm all headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals work properly. Replace worn-out wiper blades.
• Cooling System Check
  Summer temperatures put extra strain on your vehicle’s cooling system. Ensure hoses, belts, and the radiator are in good condition.

At Rad Air, we make it easy to get everything checked with one convenient comprehensive vehicle inspection.

Ready to Hit the Road? Rad Air Has You Covered

Whether you are exploring covered bridges, rolling hills, or coastal vistas, Rad Air Complete Car Care and Tire Centers are here to make sure your trip goes smoothly. Our family-owned and locally operated shops have served Northeast Ohio drivers since 1975, and we’re proud to help you enjoy a stress-free, scenic summer road trip.

Visit radair.com/locations to find the Rad Air center closest to your starting point, and schedule your appointment today to make sure your car is ready for the adventure ahead.

Drive safe, enjoy the scenery, and trust Rad Air to keep you rolling!