10 Unforgettable Small Towns to Visit in Ohio
Unlike most American states that boast mega metropolitan cities as their proud attractions, Ohio stands out with its quirky small towns. Visitors to these unforgettable small towns in Ohio can experience American hospitality through their cozy, small-town feel, enhanced by recorded-breaking attractions such as the world’s most giant cuckoo clock in Sugarcreek! There are also plenty of nature-centric communities like Geneva On the Lake and community events that bring out the best of creative talents like the Athens Film and Video Festival, from the simplicity of the peaceful Amish communities of Ohio to some of the best calm getaways in "The Mother of Presidents," here is a list of the must-visit distinctive towns of Ohio.
Put-in-Bay
A distinguished island-setting town, Put-in-Bay is recognized amongst locals as one of Ohio’s best summer resort towns. This quaint town will be unforgettable for its balance of awe-inspiring nature, such as the Perry’s Cave and its incredible underground lake, endless shopping options on the boardwalk, and a broad range of recreational attractions. Put-in-Bay also enjoys a lively community that adds to the town’s unique culture with quirky events like the PyrateFest, a family-friendly pirate-themed annual summer festival at Put-in-Bay’s downtown harbor. Turn your visit to Put-in-Bay into a romantic escape when staying at Bayshore Resort, one of the only waterfront resorts in town, or for a more at-home, cozy accommodation, book a stay at Anchor Inn Boutique Hotel and Getaway Inn at Cooper’s Woods.
Sugarcreek
A gateway to the Amish community, Sugarcreek features well-preserved architecture that narrates tales of early settlers and the community’s historical significance. Commercially recognized as a significant Swiss cheese manufacturer, Sugarcreek’s primary industry was influenced by Swiss Immigrants who added their unique twist to the typical American small-town atmosphere. Unquestionably one of the unforgettable Ohio towns, Sugarcreek stands out with its unique ambiance of Swiss architectural styles, friendly locals, authentic attractions such as the world’s most giant Cuckoo Clock, and special events such as the Ohio Swiss Fest. Indulge at a slower pace when staying in the Amish and European-influenced towns at places like Carlisle Inn and Sugarcreek Village Inn.
Conneaut
Another of Ohio’s waterfront towns, Conneaut, is a fishing town that sits along Lake Erie, also offering endless hunting opportunities. With a seven-mile coastline, Conneaut is unforgettable for its endless watersport recreational opportunities, local wineries, and fascinating historical attractions like the Conneaut Railroad Museum North Coast D-Day WWII history museum. Buccia Vineyard and B&B, Tarsitano Winery & Vineyards, and Markko Vineyard and Winery are a few of the famous wineries in the area, while Hotel Conneaut, Centennial Inn B&B, and The Seasons Inn at Nick’s Place are among the most popular places to stay during your weekend escape to Conneaut.
Geneva-on-the-Lake
Unlike Geneva-On-The Lake in New York, this small town is located just 50 mi from Conneaut and is famous for its extensive vineyards. The town’s central small business hub and main shopping district stands out as an Instagramable backdrop and is a mile-long stretch, a small commercially rich section of State Route 531 that enjoys a vintage aesthetic of small mom-and-pop diners, shops, and quaint boutiques. Bridge Street Art Works, Made in Ohio, Piero’s Pasta House, Time Square Restaurant, and Crosswinds Grille top the list of locally renowned small businesses to check out during your escape to Geneva on the lake.
Yellow Springs
Yellow Springs is on almost every list of the best small towns in Ohio, with a balance of nature-rich atmospheres and a range of historic small businesses to explore. The town’s main attractions include the Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, John Bryan State Park, and the historic downtown Yellow Springs. Established in 1825, Yellow Springs gets its name from its natural springs of high iron that give off a rusty yellow look. Embrace the town’s iconic springs at Glen Helen, boasting over 20 mi of hike-able trails, shop the eclectic redbrick boutiques on Xenia Avenue and Walnut Street in Downtown Yellow Springs, and don’t forget to visit the old Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm built in 1869, for some freshly made ice-cream and other locally made dairy products. Unique experiences in Yellow Springs include going on a Flower Picking Trip to the Flower Village Farm and venturing to the lavender fields located 4 mi west of Young’s Dairy Farm.
Chagrin Falls
Adding to the list of unforgettable Ohio towns for a quick weekend getaway is Chagrin Falls, a nature-centric community in Cuyahoga County, one of Ohio’s best picturesque regions. The lively culinary scene and relaxing nature make this town the perfect destination to zone out and regroup. Over 50 small businesses line the streets of Downtown Chargian Falls. Breathtaking waterfalls cross Downtown Chagrin Falls, created by Waterstreams from The Chargian River; the town also stands out with its Victorian-style storefronts and beautiful small parks. Plan your visit to Chagrin Falls this autumn to catch local parks like Riverside Park and their most vibrant state, complemented by hidden waterfalls along the river.
Athens
Athens has a rich culture and a strong sense of community. Home to Ohio University, a booming artistic scene, and aesthetically pleasing historic buildings like the Athens County Courthouse. Athens is beautiful for housing an eclectic mix of creative venues and being an artistically supportive community. One of the city’s main events is the Athens International Film and Video Festival, an art space dedicated to showcasing the work of locals. Visitors can learn about the small Ohio town by visiting the Athens Community Center via an aesthetically pleasing display of local talents in photography, painting, and more. The annual Athens County Fair, the town’s annual major event held every July and August, brings out the city's best, from homemade goods to fresh foods and beverages.
Gambier
Gambier is best known as a college town but is enhanced with well-preserved architecture like Its Kenyon College Campus and the Gambier Historic District. Home to one of the nation’s best liberal arts institutions, Gambier enjoys a welcoming ambiance of primarily 19th-century architecture. One of the main highlights of your visit to Gambier will be Kenyon College’s breathtaking Gothic castle-like, aesthetically pleasing design, constructed in 1829. Cozy homestays add to the American small-town feel, with private B&B rentals like the Rogan House, The Gambier House, and The Kenyon Inn & Restaurant. The Gund Art Gallery, the Japanese Schnormeier Gardens, and the Brown Family Environmental Preserve, offering over 11 miles of trails, are a few must-see places to add to your list of things to do in Gambier.
Lebanon
A lively small town brimming with community events and festivals, Lebanon is also recognized as a significant antiques hub. Exploring Lebanon’s Warren County History Center and spending a night at the Golden Lamb Inn allow for a unique insight into the historic town that dates back to the 1790s. Located 31.6 mi from Cincinnati, Lebanon is the perfect quick, big-city escape town. Guide yourself through a tour of the town’s attractions, making stops at historically significant places like the Lebanon Symphony Orchestra and Warren County Historical Society Museum while browsing iconic businesses like the Village Ice Cream Parlor built in 1969, Hardy’s Interiors & Antiques, and Broadway Antique Mall.
Lancaster
Finally, wrapping up the list of unforgettable Ohio towns is the historic railroad town of Lancaster, with its many museums and a balance of modern-day and 19th-century architecture. Lancaster makes the perfect memorable family getaway for picturesque Alley Park, the 19th-century Georgian Museum, and the Rock Mill Covered Bridge, which was built in 1799. The Sherman House Museum and Glass Museum and the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio are a few other artsy destinations to check out during your visit to Lancaster, Ohio’s hidden gem. Lancaster’s history is also depicted through small businesses passed down through generations, like The Olde Shoe Factory Antique Mall and Keller Market House, commemorating the Keller Grocery Store. This community-loved local shop closed its doors in 1914.
Explore Ohio beyond its bustling cities like Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Columbus, and you’ll uncover hidden treasures in charming small towns. From the enchanting nature trails of Yellow Springs to the heartwarming allure of cozy downtown havens, Ohio’s ten unforgettable small towns promise unique and memorable experiences for every interest.
