Summer — the season of neighborhood cookouts, popsicle juice dripping down sticky fingers, and road trips. Call us car-zy, but this season brings an abundance of nostalgia, especially when it comes to driving down the highway while blasting The Proclaimers’ “I’m Gonna Be.”

That’s why we’re excited to kick off Hit the Road. In this summer road trip series, we will feature three destinations throughout June, July, and August — each with its own theme. We’ll be talking outdoor adventures, 60-mile getaways, and something for the foodies.

Before you pack your bags, here are some of our recommendations to prepare locally:

🥤 Stock up on road trip essentials

Swing by one of these CBUS spots to stock up on snacks, drinks, and coffee to minimize your stops during the road trip.

North Market Downtown, 59 Spruce St. | Snag some fresh produce, to-go meals from local vendors, and a cold-pressed juice or smoothie from Bubbles Tea & Juice Company
Brekkie Shack, 1060 Yard St. | Grab a Buckeye Latte before you travel around the Buckeye state + try one of the boxed breakfast or lunch options (and the pastries for a sweet treat)
Bonus: Grab a fun road trip game at The Guardtower

🎶 Create a road trip playlist

Check out these local artists + add some of their tunes to your road trip rotation.

Caamp, “Lavender Days”
Parker Louis, “Lifted”
The Cordial Sins, “Only Human”
Bonus: Listen to this audiobook by Ohio-based bestselling author Emily Henry

🚘 Get your car ready

Check the fluids + car battery. If you notice anything out of the ordinary or need a last-minute oil change before you go, head to one of these local car shops.

Alternative Auto Care, 136 W. 5th Ave.
Tom and Jerry’s Auto Service, 1701 Kenny Rd.
Luke’s Auto Service, 5410 Byers Circle East
Bonus: Find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank

🐶 Don’t forget about fido

Be sure to line up accommodations for your pet while you’re away. Reach out to one of the many local pet sitters or pet boarding facilities. Here are a few:

Camp Bow Wow, 1006 Dublin Rd.
Playful Pets, 13 N. Green St.
Stay, Spot!, 1171 N. Grant Ave.