Congratulations! You’ve made it to week 4 of the ultimate track-to-track road trip! That means we’re a third of the way through the summer, but don’t worry, there’s still plenty of fun ahead. This week, we’re traveling between the New Hampshire Motor Speedway and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. We’ve got a few stops in Ohio, home of LeafFilter, one of Kaulig Racing’s sponsors. And, with the competition heating up almost as much as the summer weather, it’s bound to be an exciting weekend at the track. So buckle in for this week’s track-to-track road trip!
Fast Facts:
Last race: July 15 at New Hampshire Motor Speedway
Next race: July 22 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway
Time on the road: About 15 hours
Best route: I-90 West
Start Your Engines
Syracuse, NY – Syracuse has a little something for everyone – young and old. Wonderworks, a small chain, indoor amusement park, is a fantastic option for family-friendly fun. The “edu-tainment” facility will provide hours of fascination as you explore the many attractions. If you don’t make it to Wonderworks, at least stop on by Pole Position Raceway. Perhaps one of the most NASCAR-like experiences on this leg of the trip, you’ll have a chance to get behind the wheel of a go-kart and zip around a winding track as you’re cheered on by the crowd.
For a reprieve from the chaos, slow it down at the Landmark Theatre. You’re sure to get a stunning live entertainment experience at this historic venue. The 21 and over crowd may also find some relaxation at Al’s Wine & Whiskey, a very classy establishment with an extensive selection of the best libations. As a last stop in Syracuse, the whole family will enjoy taking a tour of the sugarhouse at Cedarvale Maple Syrup Co. Little ones will especially love a trip to their candy kitchen. Don’t forget to grab a bottle of authentic maple syrup to go before you hit the road for the next stop!
Erie, PA – A short drive away from Syracuse is Erie. This city is truly a lakeside oasis. Here, adults can indulge at Lavery Brewing or 6 Mile Cellars, depending on their tastes. The young ones in your group can let loose at Waldameer amusement park and water world. Pulakos Chocolates is another local family favorite (be sure to try the chocolate covered strawberries and chocolate sponge candies!). When you get hungry, head on over to the Sloppy Duck Saloon. You’ll never find fresher perch than what you’ll get off the shores of Lake Erie, so do yourself a favor and order their signature panko breaded perch sandwich. After all that excitement, you’re bound to be desperate for some shut eye. Make a beeline for the tranquil Spencer House Bed & Breakfast for one of the best night’s sleep you’ll ever experience.
Cleveland, OH – Next up, the home of rock ‘n’ roll! Located less than an hour outside of the corporate headquarters of LeafFilter – one of the sponsors of Kaulig Racing – this city is truly jam packed with fun things to see and do. If you get to Cleveland early, head straight to the West Side Market for the best selection of local produce, bakery, and meats. Then, catch all the cool rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Then, celebrate Christmas in July at another local landmark – the Christmas Story House – which was the actual filming location of the classic movie, A Christmas Story. Then, make your way to one of Cleveland’s most popular breweries, Great Lakes Brewing Co., and order up an Elliot Ness lager. Finally, swing around to Sokolowskis for a taste of Cleveland’s most authentic Polish cuisine. An order of pierogis and chicken paprikash will leave you pleasantly full. Finally, retreat to a luxurious room at the Metropolitan at the 9 hotel.
Dayton, OH – Local favorite, Milano’s Pizza, Subs & Taps is an absolute must-visit. Get the crowd favorite meatball sun and choose from one of their dozens of beers on tap for a fun dining experience. After you’ve had your fill, get out and explore the city a bit. There are tons of great places to learn the local history, but the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is one of the most well-known spots. The Boonshoft Museum of Discovery is another family-friendly edutainment center. For something a little less education-oriented, and a little more heavy on the entertainment value, head on over to Scene 75. This indoor entertainment center houses tons of fun attractions, like the largest indoor go-kart track in Ohio, black light mini golf, bumper cars, laser tag, arcade games and so much more. Your family will have so much fun, you might just have to drag the kids out kicking and screaming. The older crowd can get a much-needed reprieve at The Wine Gallery, or blow off some steam by seeing a live show at Oddbody’s Music Room.
Last Stop: Indianapolis, IN – Indianapolis has a seemingly limitless supply of fun things to do in and around the track. Check out last year’s post, Top 9 Hot Spots Around the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, to make your race weekend itinerary. Then, make your way over to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for an action packed race. Don’t forget to represent your favorite team by wearing your Blake Koch gear!
