12 Most Scenic Ohio Towns
The most scenic towns in Ohio can be both naturally beautiful or creatively enhanced with esthetically pleasing artistic industries like the Glass industry of Cambridge and the antique galleries of Waynesville. This curated list unveils the charm of each town, showcasing what sets them apart from the urban sprawl and highlighting their unique appeal. Read along as we dive into what makes the eco-rich American state worth exploring.
Geneva-On-The-Lake
Geneva-on-the-Lake is one of Ohio's main beach towns known for its shimmering crystal waters, scenic trails, and Mohican River. It is located on the shores of Lake Erie, one of the Great Lakes. Geneva on the Lake also has vast vineyards and an eclectic culinary scene. Old Firehouse Winery, Crosswinds Grille, Harpersfield Vineyard, and Ruff Life on the Lake Cafe are excellent destinations to taste local culture. After an entire day, visit the Vineyards and local restaurants, explore nearby parks and natural sites like Geneva State Park Lake Shore Park, or even stay the night outdoors at Willow Lake Campgrounds and absorb the natural beauty overnight.
Peninsula
Another naturally abundant town, Peninsula offers an array of scenic attractions from cultural like its local art scene to waterfront vistas of the Cuyahoga River. Like almost any Ohio town on this list, Peninsula is a year-round destination showcasing all four seasons to their fullest. Experience the town's beauty through a train tour of Cuyahoga Valley, or explore mother nature by hiking the Valley Ledges Trail and Blue Hen Falls. Other unique experiences in the town include touring the old downtown and supporting family-owned businesses like Blue Heron Bookstore, Downtown Emporium Antiques, and Szalay's farm market.
Marietta
Marietta is a small, picturesque town in Southeastern Ohio on the banks of the Ohio River and a go-to town for architecture and history enthusiasts. The downtown historic district is home to many of the town's historic attractions, including The Basilica of Saint Mary, The Henry Fearing House, and the Castle Museum. Among its historically scenic district are several local dining spots. The most notable include Old Town House Grill, Spanglish, and the Gallery pub. Take photos at the beautiful Marietta Square, appreciate creative local efforts at Marietta Cobb Museum, and learn more about the town's history at Marietta History Center.
Cambridge
Cambridge is a town in Guernsey County, Ohio, that sits in the Appalachian Mountains foothills on the southeastern side of the Buckeye State. The town's claim to fame is its local community of glass collectors and old glassware manufacturers like the historic Cambridge Glass Company. Catch an eye-opening experience at the National Museum of Cambridge Glass, Boyd's Crystal Art Glass, and Degenhart Glass Museum. In addition to its heritage and thriving creative community, the town is conveniently surrounded by beautiful state parks that you can explore during your stay in the cozy mountain town, like Wolf Run and Salt Fork State Park.
Granville
Granville is a student town that ranks on our list of the most scenic Ohio towns for the beauty of its historic buildings. The city is famous for its New England-style architecture, like the Avery Downer House, the Granville Inn, and the Bancroft House. In addition to being home to Denison University, Granville holds a historical reputation for being an educational hub, with over five schools built in the 18th century. Some of the oldest educational institutions in town include The Granville Literary and Theological Institution and the Granville Female Seminar.
Vermilion
A Lake Erie gem, Vermilion boasts a charming harbor, beautiful beaches, and stunning sunsets over the water. The romantic ambiance that this small town enjoys qualifies it to rank among Ohio's most beautiful and scenic cities. Additionally, Vermilion enjoys a lively, quaint downtown abuzz with family-owned businesses, from restaurants to art galleries. Just like all roads lead to Rome, in Vermilion, all roads lead to the water. Cruise the Vermilion River on a sunset, dine at waterfront restaurants like Chez Francois Restaurant & Touche Bistro, and indulge in a heartwarming small-town experience on Main St downtown Vermilion.
Chagrin Falls
Just a 25-mile drive from Cleveland sits the charming village of Chagrin Falls, which dates back to the 18th century and still enjoys a strong sense of local community demonstrated through local events and community gatherings. Qualifying this town to make our list of the most scenic Ohio towns is its vibrant nature and lush lands, with some of its most popular attractions being the Chagrin Waterfalls, Beartown Lake, Chagrin Valley, and Frowhring Medows.
Waynesville
The antique capital of the Midwest makes almost every list of the best Ohio towns for its walkable Main St. and thriving vintage atmosphere. Waynesville also enjoys a lively outdoors that complements its man-made attractions. Caesar Creek State Park is the place to be for an inclusive outdoor fun experience, from kayaking and swimming to hiking the scenic trails of Horseshoe Falls and The Perimeter Loop Trail. Some popular antique shops to check out during your stay in Waynesville include Benner's Colonial Tradition, Brass Lantern, and Early Country Antiques.
Tipp City
The historic town of Tipp City is known for its beautiful parks, local restaurants, and community festivals, such as the annual Tipp City Mum Fest and the Canal Music Fest. The town's beauty lies in its old-school allure and welcoming local businesses. Visit Charleston Falls Preserve, boasting over 216 acres of lush green forests. Tipp City balances both nature and a small-town charm with must-see, heartwarming, locally-owned shops like Sweet Adaline's Bakery, Grounds for Pleasure Coffee Shop, and Browse a While Books.
Twinsburg
Halfway between Akron and Cleveland, you'll find the only town in the world named Twinsburg. Aside from quality education and a low crime rate, Twinsburg is home to the top public library in the country, and the Twins Day Festival is the largest gathering of twins in the world. The town was named for two of its founders, identical twins Moses and Aaron Wilcox. Twinsburg's old-school atmosphere calls for experiencing an adventure as you can spend an entire day exploring the historical side of the town, like the historical heritage at the Twinsburg Historical Society Museum.
Yellow Springs
Back to the natural side of things, Yellow Springs tops every other best Ohio town list and wraps up ours. Yellow Springs' positioning near lush forests and state parks like Jhon Bryan State Park and Glen Helen Nature Preserve makes the town a destination for nature lovers and outdoor explorers. Must-see attractions in the area include the legendary Yellow Spring that the town was named after, Camp Greene at Glen Helen, and the nearby Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve.
Finally, the mix of state parks, historic districts, and the heartwarming creativity of locals make Ohio a diverse state with something for every visitor. Plan your getaway to explore lush forests or tour the small businesses and historic downtowns decorated with a local take on things when visiting the most scenic towns of Ohio.
