By Brian Dowling
Viewing the land through the eye of a satellite, the space between Columbus, Ohio, moving west to Fairborn, Ohio, looks like a quilt finished in a green, yellow and brown patchwork. With such a view, unfortunately, the uninformed traveler may infer that the drive and stops along the way are as exciting as that earth-toned quilt. The collection of small communities found along the way and otherwise lost to the interstate-blinded I-70 traveler offer numerous regional experiences.
West Jefferson, Ohio
Stop by this small 4,300-person community to experience a number of seasonal events. During the last week in May, visit the Annual Historic National Road Yard Sale to find "anything you would need or want." In July, this small community celebrates a July 4th Streetfest that offers rides, food, entertainment and a parade.
South Vienna, Ohio
The Village of South Vienna, Ohio, is another convenient stop along the Historic National Road (I-40), which runs parallel with I-70. The 500-person village was "platted by John H. Dynes" in 1833 and is still a small farming community. Each year, South Vienna holds a Corn Festival and 5K Run in early September. Register early to train to win in one of six age brackets.
Springfield, Ohio
This 2004 All-America City finalist and home to Wittenberg University is a quiet location that offers opportunities for arts and recreation. Hungry for culture? Visit the galleries of the Springfield Museum of Art or attend the Springfield Symphony Orchestra. Need some time with nature? Find a spot in more than 1,200 acres of parks, open space and leisure facilities.
In a letter about the city, Mayor Warren R. Copeland wrote, "Springfield is the very definition of American Heartland Community, and an All-America City. Springfield is a city in constant change, abounding with energy -- a fountain of hope in the heart of America. By working together, our citizens are literally redefining what community means in the industrial heartland of America."
Fairborn, Ohio
In addition to being this trip's destination, Fairborn is home to Wright State University and 32,500 people. The city has nearly 20 parks to visit and boasts a "special commitment to recreational areas" (all 686.57 acres of them). Finding adequate lodging should not be a problem at one of 16 local inns and hotels.
About the Author:
Brian Dowling graduated from Aquinas College, a liberal arts school in Grand Rapids, Mich. He worked for Aquinas College's student newspaper as a staff writer and news editor. The latter position required article assignments, page layout and section copy editing.
