Fall in Ohio is a season of color, charm, and crisp air. Roads lined with golden leaves, small towns buzzing with festivals and markets, and endless scenic routes make every drive feel like it was designed for autumn cruising. Around Cleveland, you’ll find lakeside stretches, winding parkways, and forest escapes that showcase the very best of the season.
And with your Honda, those drives become even more rewarding. Built for comfort, safety, and efficiency, models like the CR-V, Accord, Odyssey, and the all-electric Prologue are ready to turn any fall day into an unforgettable road trip.
At Jay Honda in Bedford, OH, we’re here to help you make the most of every mile.
The Joy of Fall Drives Around Cleveland
From vineyards and covered bridges to waterfalls and hiking trails, Northeast Ohio has a little bit of everything. Whether you’re after a peaceful Sunday drive or a weekend getaway, the beauty of the season is waiting just a short drive away.
Quick FAQs for Fall Travelers:
Q: When is peak fall color near Cleveland?
A: Late September through mid-October is usually the brightest, though southern areas hold onto their color into early November.
Q: Which Honda is best for a family fall road trip?
A: The Honda Odyssey is perfect for families, while the Honda Pilot adds SUV versatility.
Q: How many scenic byway miles are near Cleveland, Ohio?
A: Ohio has over 3,000 miles of scenic byways, many within a couple of hours of Cleveland.
Top 10 Scenic Drives Near Cleveland, OH
1. Cuyahoga Valley National Park Scenic Drive
Take Riverview Road through Ohio’s only national park for endless fall color. Along the way, you’ll pass:
- Brandywine Falls – a 65-foot waterfall framed by autumn leaves.
- Everett Covered Bridge – one of the most photographed spots in the park.
Best driven in a Honda CR-V or Pilot for extra comfort and visibility.
2. Chagrin River Valley
Winding roads, wooded hills, and the historic village of Chagrin Falls make this drive a local favorite. Be sure to stop at:
- Downtown Chagrin Falls – charming shops, cafés, and a waterfall right in town.
- The Glass Asylum – watch artisans at work or take a glass-blowing class.
- South Chagrin Reservation – trails and sandstone ledges perfect for a walk.
Enjoy it all in the smooth-riding Honda Accord.
3. Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Trail
This route hugs Lake Erie and offers endless views. Don’t miss:
- Geneva-on-the-Lake – an old-fashioned resort town with wineries and lake views.
- Marblehead Lighthouse – one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes.
- Maumee Bay State Park (farther west) – a peaceful lakeside retreat.
Families will love the spacious Honda Odyssey for this trip.
4. Amish Country Byways (Holmes County)
Peaceful roads lined with farms and rolling hills make Holmes County unforgettable. Stop for:
- Yoder’s Amish Home – tours of authentic Amish houses and barns.
- Berlin, OH – filled with shops, bakeries, and quilt stores.
- Covered Bridges – charming wooden bridges that glow in autumn light.
Explore it all in a capable Honda Passport.
5. Hocking Hills Scenic Byway (Weekend Trip)
This southeast Ohio route is full of natural wonders. Must-sees include:
- Old Man’s Cave – stunning rock formations and waterfalls.
- Ash Cave – a massive natural cavern with a seasonal waterfall.
- Cedar Falls – surrounded by fall foliage.
Perfect for a weekend trip in a Honda Hybrid or Honda Prologue EV.
6. Valley Parkway Drive (Cleveland Metroparks)
Close to home but packed with beauty, this drive winds through the “Emerald Necklace.” Stop at:
- Rocky River Reservation – wooded trails and river views.
- Huntington Reservation – beaches and lake views, especially stunning at sunset.
- Brecksville Reservation – rolling hills and scenic overlooks.
The fuel-efficient Honda Civic is a great match for this city-to-nature escape.
7. Ashtabula Covered Bridge Tour
Ashtabula County boasts 19 covered bridges—the most in the U.S. Highlights include:
- Smolen-Gulf Bridge – the longest covered bridge in America.
- Harpersfield Bridge – set in a scenic park with picnic areas.
- Netcher Road Bridge – with a modern, architectural design.
Bring the whole family in a Honda Pilot to explore every stop.
8. Mohican State Park Scenic Drive
Mohican is known for tall trees and scenic overlooks. Don’t miss:
- Clear Fork Gorge Overlook – stunning fall views of the river valley.
- Pleasant Hill Dam – a quiet spot for photos and picnics.
- Mohican State Forest Trails – perfect for stretching your legs mid-drive.
Adventure-ready in the Honda Ridgeline, especially if you’re hauling bikes or camping gear.
9. Geneva Grape Belt Scenic Drive
This route is full of rolling vineyards and wineries. Add these stops to your list:
- Ferrante Winery – a family-owned winery with scenic patios.
- Debonné Vineyards – Ohio’s largest estate winery.
- Lakehouse Inn & Winery – lakeside views paired with local wines.
The efficient Honda Accord Hybrid is the perfect eco-friendly choice here.
10. Wayne National Forest Scenic Drive
For a more remote adventure, Wayne National Forest offers endless fall beauty. Be sure to see:
- Covered bridges and scenic overlooks scattered throughout the forest.
- Wildcat Hollow Trail – a gorgeous hiking loop surrounded by autumn color.
- Nelsonville, OH – a small historic town near the forest with shops and cafés.
The long-range Honda Prologue EV makes the trip both quiet and eco-friendly.
Tips for Enjoying Your Honda on a Fall Drive
Get road trip ready with a service check at Jay Honda (brakes, tires, and fluids). See our current service specials!
Use Honda Sensing® features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
Plan charging stops if you’re driving the Honda Prologue EV.
Pack smart—our Odyssey, CR-V and Pilot models make family road trips easy with roomy interiors.
Why Jay Honda is Your Fall Road Trip Partner
At Jay Honda in Bedford, OH, we’re proud to help Cleveland drivers make the most of every season. With a wide selection of new Hondas, certified pre-owned vehicles, and a trusted service center, we’ll make sure your Honda is ready for wherever the road takes you.
Fall in Ohio is something to savor. From waterfalls and covered bridges to vineyards and forest trails, every road offers a new view—and every Honda makes the drive more enjoyable.
Visit Jay Honda in Bedford, OH today to find your perfect Honda for fall road trips and beyond.