10 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Ohio
Nicknamed the Buckeye State, Ohio is filled with an abundance of natural and manmade beauty. From crystal-filled underground caves to gigantic cuckoo clocks, travelers will have plenty to feast their eyes on here. With the gorgeous Lake Erie bordering many of these small towns, watersports, lighthouses, and fishing opportunities are never hard to find. So for those who enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, Ohio is calling.
Geneva-on-the-Lake
Geneva-on-the-Lake is a small but bustling resort town located along the shores of Lake Erie in Ohio. Home to a decent selection of parks, beaches, and an active marina-there is always something fun to do in town. Those traveling with kids in the summer will want to check out the historic Erieview Park Ferris Wheel. The ride, which has been around since 1956, can be found at the Old Firehouse Winery and offers unbeatable views of the surrounding lake. A visit to Adventure Zone Family Fun Center is another worthwhile outing for those traveling with kids. Here, families can enjoy a jam-packed selection of activities, including ziplines, go-karts, bumper boats, putt-putt golf, climbing walls, batting cages, bungee tramp, a merry-go-round, and a snack bar. Next, pack a snack bag and lace up those hiking boots for an afternoon of adventure at Geneva State Park. The park, which is also on the shores of Sparkling Lake, offers a range of activities, including hiking, paddling, swimming, fishing, and camping. While here, don’t forget to stop and admire the sunset at Breakwater Beach.
Loveland
Just under 300 miles southwest of Geneva-on-the-Lake, interested travelers will find Loveland, Ohio. As the name implies, visitors are sure to love this land. The beautiful Little Miami River cuts through the center of Loveland and serves as a great place for camping, canoeing, and picnicking by the water. For easy river access, head to Lake Isabella Park, where families can also enjoy pavilions and playground equipment. The town also features a section of the Buckeye Trail, a 1,444-mile trail that loops around the entire state and is perfect for eager hikers. Next, history buffs and Halloween enthusiasts will want to visit The Historic Loveland Castle & Museum. Here, visitors can dive deep into the castle’s history and learn all about Harry Delos Andrews, the man who made the castle. Remnants of Andrews’ work, including the many chess sets and puzzles he made, are still available to be enjoyed today. Additionally, castle visitors will have the chance to see and learn about the various ghosts that allegedly roam the castle halls. For a quick change of pace, don’t forget to visit Kings Island. Located less than 10 miles outside of town, Kings Island is a summer amusement park featuring rollercoasters and waterslides.
Chagrin Falls
Beauty and relaxation linger around every corner in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. Beloved for its walkability and community waterfall, Chagrin Falls is a wonderful spot for a spontaneous day trip or couples outing. To start the visit off on the right foot, head to the center of town, where visitors will find a charming boardwalk leading to the Chagrin Falls waterfall. After soaking in the beauty of the falls, pay a visit to Frohring Meadows, a 298-acre park with stunning prairie lands and plenty of hiking trails to enjoy. Frohring Meadows is also a great spot for birdwatching, cross-country skiing, and dog walking. Those looking for fun-filled indoor activities can let loose at the Chagrin Valley Roller Rink. Or those who prefer putting to skating can check out The Golf Dome instead.
Salem
Travelers, start your engines. It is time for a trip to Salem, Ohio. Although this quaint town is filled with quiet beauty, there is still plenty of excitement to be had here. Catch a race at the Quaker City Motorsports Park, where vehicles of varying shapes and sizes participate in regular drag races that always get the crowds roaring. Those who’d rather be a part of the action than a witness to it can enjoy a round of bowling at Hunt Club Lanes or opt for laser tag and roller skating at the Salem Fun Center instead. For something a bit slower-paced, visitors can head to the Salem Community Theatre to take in a show. Better yet, spend some time outdoors exploring Bricker Homestead Walking Park, where gravel trails lead hikers through beautiful wooded areas and past a small lake.
Oberlin
Oberlin, Ohio, is a vibrant little college town located roughly 30 miles from Cleveland. Visitors will find a mix of art museums, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities to enjoy here. In the warmer months, get the adrenaline pumping at Common Ground Canopy Tours. Here, guests will find seven zip lines, two spiral staircases, two aerial bridges, one unique floating staircase, and a final rappel at the end, according to the company website. After the rush of ziplining, head to Tappan Square, a popular community park complete with lush trees, benches, and swing chairs. The park also features a memorial arch dedicated to the missionaries and children who lost their lives in the Boxer uprising in China. Of course, a trip to Oberlin is never complete without admiring some of the art the town is known for. Art appreciators can head to Allen Memorial Art Museum at Oberlin College, where they can admire art from all across the globe.
Vermilion
Less than 20 miles from Oberlin, back on the shores of Lake Erie, travelers will stumble upon the beautiful town of Vermilion, Ohio. With beaches, parks, and a stunning lighthouse-Vermilion is a beloved summer destination for people of all ages. Known for its welcoming community and jam-packed events calendar, there’s never a shortage of fun to be had here. On a hot summer day, a visit to Main Street Beach is a must. Here, visitors can swim, dig their toes into the sand, and admire the Vermilion Lighthouse replica. Main Street Beach is also known for providing beautifully unobstructed sunset views, so plan your beach day accordingly. Next, head to the charming Vermilion Farm Market and grab some fresh, locally sourced goodies for lunch. Speaking of lunch, the Vermilion River Reservation is a great place to sit, relax, and enjoy a picnic. The Reservation also features hiking trails, a disc golf course, a playground, a museum, and an outdoor amphitheater.
Granville
Roughly 30 miles outside of Columbus-Ohio’s capital city-travelers will find the serene town of Granville, Ohio. Granville is characterized by its many historical buildings, including the Avery Downer House, aka the Robbins Hunter Museum. History buffs can enjoy free tours of the museum from Wednesday to Saturday, where they can learn about Granville’s past. After touring the museum, head to Infirmary Mound Park for a few hours of outdoor exploration. Here, park-goers can traverse 7 miles worth of trails, go fishing on Mirror Lake, and admire the prehistoric “Infirmary Mound.” Another must-see outdoor spot in Granville is Lake Hudson, a popular swimming hole featuring sandy shores, grills for picnicking, a water slide, and volleyball courts. At the time of writing, Lake Hudson is in the process of reopening the beach following a tornado.
Sugarcreek
Sugarcreek, Ohio, is a quirky little village filled with Amish culture and touches of Swiss heritage. Dubbed the “little Switzerland” of Ohio, the streets of Sugarcreek are lined with old cheese factories and Swiss architecture. One of the best Swiss-themed sights in town is the World's Largest Cuckoo Clock, which can be seen in the town square and features an entire cast of Swiss characters. After watching the clock chime at the top of the hour, head to the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum, where, as the website implies, guests can dive into the “golden era of railroading.” Next, it’s time to enjoy some of the Amish culture that is so prevalent throughout town by visiting The Farm At Walnut Creek. Here, animal lovers will have a blast interacting with and feeding over 500 animals who call this farm home. Additionally, farm visitors can enjoy a wagon ride and experience what it is like working on the farm. Finally, finish the visit off on a high note at The Ohio Star Theatre, where family-friendly shows are always on the bill.
Put-in-Bay
Between fun-filled rides on an open-air trolley and wine tastings at one of many local wineries, Put-In-Bay, Ohio, is the ideal destination for anyone looking to relax and enjoy life's simple pleasures. Visitors can take their adventuring to new levels when they head underground at Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center. The cave is 52 feet underground and features a rare underground freshwater lake. The family fun center also offers gem mining, mini golf, a rock wall, and a beautiful butterfly sanctuary. If that’s not enough, visitors can enjoy more cave exploration at Heinmans-Ohio's oldest family-owned winery. Finally, don’t forget to visit South Bass Island State Park, a peaceful park with beaches, camping, and picturesque views of Lake Erie.
Conneaut
Conneaut, Ohio is another beautiful town situated on Lake Erie, about 150 miles from Put-in-Bay. During the warmer months, hanging out at Conneaut Township Park is one of the best ways to spend an afternoon. Park guests can enjoy bluffs, a sprawling beach, a lighthouse, and a boardwalk during their visit. Next, hit the road for a tour of Conneaut’s covered bridges, including the Middle Road Covered Bridge, State Road Covered Bridge, and Creek Road Covered Bridge. History buffs in the group will not want to pass up a visit to D-Day Conneaut, a popular WWII museum.
In conclusion…
Between chasing waterfalls in Chagrin Falls and cave diving in Put-In-Bay, Ohio is a nature-lovers paradise. Beautiful views and unique experiences are easy to find, not just in the big cities but in the hundreds of breathtaking small towns as well. Travelers thinking of planning a trip to Cleveland or Columbus will definitely want to consider checking out these ten small towns first.
