Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A few weeks ago my family and I took a short getaway to Springfield, Ohio. I’m so glad our kids are finally old enough for road trips again—travel was one of the things I missed most during the baby years. Now that we’re in the toddler and preschool stage, trips are getting easier and more fun for everyone.
Springfield made a great road trip spot for us. It’s only about 3 to 3½ hours from most of metro Detroit and has plenty of family-friendly things to do. The mid-sized city is bringing in new restaurants, shops, and activities, so we spent two nights and three days enjoying a relaxed little adventure.
We stayed at the Courtyard Marriott right in downtown, which let us walk to almost everything. Our son is obsessed with hotels and couldn’t wait to explore—especially the pool. There’s a big mural by the back entrance that’s really cool, too.
That first evening we walked downtown and popped into Champion City Guide & Supply, a charming shop full of Springfield-themed goods. I loved the handmade items and the shop’s eclectic vibe. The downtown area has so many lovely, historic buildings—Springfield has done a great job turning old spaces into new businesses.
Dinner was at Seasons Bistro, a family-owned spot with locally sourced food and a tempting menu. Everything we ordered was delicious—my pasta was rich and comforting, and the glazed salmon was cooked perfectly. It’s a great place for drinks and a date night, but it also welcomes families with roomy seating and kid-friendly options.
We planned to visit Hartman Rock Garden after dinner, but the kids were getting tired, so we headed back to the hotel. I wish we’d seen the gardens—they look interesting and beautiful, and best of all, they’re free.
After a surprisingly quiet, restful night (major win—the kids slept so well!), we headed out for coffee at Winans Coffee & Chocolates. It’s a fun shop with lots of drink choices and tempting chocolates—vacation is definitely a time for chocolate covered pretzels. Back near the hotel, the farmers market was in full swing with baked goods, plants, soaps, live music, and kid activities—my favorite kind of morning.
After a quick breakfast, we visited the Springfield Museum of Art. The Christopher Burk exhibit was incredible—his urban paintings looked so real I kept thinking they were photos. The kids loved the Marvelous Journeys exhibit made from mixed materials; they were obsessed with the dollhouse and loved adding to a community art piece in the hands-on area. Outside the museum there’s a path with more art and views of whitewater runs.
Next we drove to nearby Yellow Springs, a laid-back, quirky town with lots of shops and things to do. We started at Young’s Jersey Dairy, which the kids absolutely adored. It was perfect for them to run around and burn off energy—there were rides, mini golf, batting cages, bounce houses, tricycles, and farm animals. They loved feeding the goats and watching the cows. We even chose ice cream over lunch!
One of my favorite stops was Glen Helen Nature Preserve. The trails and scenery are beautiful—just wear good shoes because some paths can be slippery. We did a one-mile loop that hits the most popular sights, including waterfalls, springs, and brooks. Next time I want to pack a lunch and spend a whole day there. It’s a must-see.
After a full day of hiking and exploring we were starving, so we ate dinner at Winds Cafe on their shaded patio. Outdoor dining in summer with kids is the best. We started with local beers and a fantastic cheese dip appetizer (cheese curds and horseradish with sesame crackers). I had an asparagus salad I can’t wait to try to recreate at home. Our main courses were wonderful, the service was excellent, and we left feeling very satisfied—perfect end to a busy day.
We crashed early that night. On Sunday morning I took a slow-flow yoga class at Into The Blue, which was exactly what I needed after so much activity.
We grabbed sandwiches at Mike & Rosy’s deli—their Italian is a local favorite—and then headed home, stopping at the Ohio Caverns on the way. I’d always seen the signs but never visited before. I worried the kids might be scared of the dark, small spaces, but they loved it. We took the Natural Wonder Tour about 130 feet underground to see crystal-white stalactites and stalagmites. The caverns are a cool 54 degrees and the winding paths show so many amazing formations. If you’re nearby, check them out.
We had a wonderful time. Springfield, Ohio offered a great mix of relaxed moments and family-friendly adventures.
Do you have any road trips planned for this summer?
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