Ride While You Still Can
We love the thrill of the open road and ride as often as we can. Despite that, eventually it’s almost inevitable that we retire the motorcycle for the winter. Before that happens, let’s talk about some of the coolest biker destinations around Fairfield County!
Motorcycle Hall of Fame
So many people don’t realize that the Motorcycle Hall of Fame is right here in our county. Spend the afternoon in Pickerington to feel the passion of the greatest motorcyclists in history. See the bikes that changed the sport. Learn about heroes from the road and track. Understand the technology that makes motorcycles some of the most powerful, efficient, and thrilling vehicles on the road today. This is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Pro-tip: Come early for a classic diner breakfast at the Olde Village Diner. Or hang out and play arcade games before dinner at Rule(3). And be sure to make time for a fun stop at Combustion Brewery!
Buckeye Lake
Make your way to Buckeye Lake to enjoy great views and a great time. Terrific places to eat and drink are all around the lake. Some of our favorites are Island House, Hometown Hot Dogs, and The Canal on Buckeye Lake. No matter where you decide to eat, top off your visit with a hand dipped sweet treat on the front porch of Weldon’s Ice Cream.
Pro-tip: Plan to spend the day exploring the lake. Try Captain Buck’s Pontoon Tours or rent a kayak from Buckeye Lake Boat Rental or Buckeye Lake Kayaking to travel at your own pace.
Lithopolis
Get out of the city and ride through some of the “fair fields” of our county with a beautiful trip to Lithopolis. There are several ways to get there, and you’ll enjoy the ride around sweeping curves and through autumnal fields. And you will love the destinations. Rock Mill is an amazing historic structure situated next to a charming covered bridge. Right next door is Rockmill Brewery, a picturesque small-production brewery serving up Belgian style beers on a scenic former horse farm.
Pro-tip: It’s just a short ride to downtown Lithopolis where you can recharge by popping into Das KaffeeHaus for authentic European java & pastries. Or try some of the best Mexican cuisine around – topped off with tasty margaritas and top-notch service – at El Pedregal.
All the Bikes and Gear
No ride through Fairfield County would be complete without a stop at Joe Carson Motor Sales. Independently owned and in business for 50+ years, this is the place for all the licensed Harley-Davidson gear, Honda equipment, and terrific t-shirts that you’ve gotta have to ride in style! From there, you need to head north for a stop at Vintage Motorcycles on High. You will be amazed at this collection of antique bikes and accessories.
Pro-tip: Jump on county road 17/Pleasantville Road and take a fun ride across the county! Just make sure you find your way to Route 664 South, where you can stop at Hugus Fruit Farm to pick up some freshly pressed cider or apples.
Covered Bridges
We’re not called “Covered Bridge Country” for nothing! Come out and explore some of our beautiful historic bridges. Some of our favorite covered bridges can be found in one of the most scenic locales in the county – Clear Creek Metro Park. Comprised of more than 5,000 acres, this park is the largest nature preserve in the state. You’ll follow Clear Creek through some gorgeous landscapes to find three covered bridges still resting on their original abutments. Start out on Route 33 and turn in the entrance to Clear Creek Metro Park. This road was recently paved, so no worries about bumps or gravel. Explore the Johnston, Hanaway, and Mink Hollow Bridges on one of the most beautiful rides you’ll ever experience.
Pro-tip: Fill up at the Sunoco Station at the intersection of Clear Creek Rd and Rt 33. You’ll find premium fuel at a great price, as well as all the goodies you might need for your trip.
Tell us about your favorite ride – or destination! – in Fairfield County. And be sure to share your pro-tips with us. Now, let’s get ready to hit the road!