12 Small Towns in Ohio to Visit for a Weekend Getaway

Ohio is known for many things, like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, its sports teams, and being the home of the Wright Brothers. Ohio became a state in March of 1803. Seven US Presidents were born in Ohio.

The state gets its name from the Iroquois word Ohi-yo, meaning "Great River." Ohio, the "Buckey State," offers a wealth of things to do, from its massive state fair and incredible museums to a land lush with flora and fauna for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Discover Ohio's top small towns with enchanting and unique experiences for the perfect weekend getaway.

Loudonville

The village of Loudonville, which lies in both Ashland and Holmes counties, is nicknamed the "Canoe Capital of Ohio." This nickname was earned for the village's many canoe liveries along the Mohican River. Holmes County, Ohio, is home to one of the largest Amish communities.

Loudonville is a nature enthusiast's paradise, with its myriad of outdoor activities in and around the Mohican State Park. The park offers excellent hiking, biking, canoeing, and camping opportunities. With all of the hustle and bustle of the big cities in the state, Ashland County is considered one of Ohio's best-kept secrets (until now). You'll find breathtaking waterfalls, beautiful parks, and historic sites like Wolf Creek Grist Mill and the Cleo Redd Fisher Museum. 

If you are searching for something fun for the whole family, Mohican Adventures will not disappoint. End your fun-filled days at Landoll's Mohican Castle, a charming hotel with unique castle-like suits, breathtaking views, and an on-site restaurant providing friendly service and delicious meals.

Shreve

The village of Shreve is in the heart of Wayne County, Ohio. It is a testament to an incredibly vibrant past with a community steeped in history. Shreve is home to an impressive variety of experiences and attractions. Nature lovers can revel in the lush forests and abundant wildlife surrounding the Shreve Lake Wildlife Area. The town began with the coming of the Pennsylvania Railroad in the 1850s and continues to captivate visitors with its historic charm.

Brown's Lake Bog State Nature Preserve is home to one of a handful of sites containing an open kettle-hole lake. This preserve represents a rare plant community, with over 20 rare plants calling the place home. It is one of the few well-preserved acidic bogs remaining in an area where the wetlands have been drained for agriculture. Brown's Lake Bog is a National Natural Landmark, designated in 1967, and is a sight to behold.

Des Dutch Essenhaus is a quaint little restaurant in Shreve serving delicious, hearty comfort food. This family-owned restaurant offers spacious dining, homemade food, and hospitality. Lake Wapusun RV Resort offers family-fun camping or glamping in a clean and quiet atmosphere. With 23 acres of lake to swim and fish, incredible amenities, tent camping, and cabins, your weekend getaway is bound to be eventful.

Westerville

Welcome to Westerville, the birthplace of Prohibition in Ohio. Westerville's heritage dates back to 1809. The town can be found in the northeast corner of the Buckey State's fastest-growing region; with a population of 38,466, it is still considered a small town.

Recreation opportunities are abundant, with over 40 parks or recreation facilities in the area, including a state-of-the-art community recreation center.

In 2013, Westerville was named the best suburb in the country. The city boasts a thriving cultural arts community and is home to the well-known television show Glee. Every fourth Friday of the month (coined "Fourth Friday), uptown Westerville transforms into a street vending hot spot. You will find everything: food, live entertainment, kid's activities, and extended shop hours.

History lovers may want to visit the Hanaby House, a historical site that was a part of the Underground Railroad. Enjoy a lovely stroll through Inniswood Metro Gardens before stopping for a bite to eat at one of the town's many restaurants. Asterisk Supper Club is a classy spot for a cup of tea, but if you fancy Italian food, Giammarco's Italian Restaurant serves up some outstanding traditional Italian food. Regarding lodging, there are numerous hotels in the area with bed and breakfasts just outside of town.

Chillicothe

Chillicothe is one of the oldest-founded towns in Ohio. This area is a beautiful and unique blend of old and new. Located in the foothills of America's Appalachian Region, this southern Ohio destination makes an exciting weekend getaway for anyone who appreciates nature and those looking for a more fast-paced, upbeat environment.

The town's historical sites take visitors back in time. Chillicothe is known for Hopeton Earthworks, where 2,000 years ago, the American Natives of the Hopewell culture gathered in the Paint Creek Valley and Sciota River to build massive geometric earthworks, including mounds. The Ross County Heritage Center is another fantastic place to explore.

In 2022, the town welcomed the Chillicothe Trolley Runs that travel various routes across different city areas throughout the year. The Majestic Theater is one of the oldest continuously operated theaters in the US. The theater is in the downtown area of Chillicothe, offering concerts, live performances, plays, movies, and films.

An afternoon at the Mighty Children's Museum is recommended if you have little ones. It offers hands-on, interactive learning experiences in entertaining ways. When it's time to satisfy your appetite, Old Canal Smokehouse whips up some delectable barbecue. Still, you can find everything from home-cooked comfort foods to international cuisines, with a touch of everything in between.

The Willis-James Bed and Breakfast, Atwood House, and the Blue Brick Inn are excellent lodging options. Of course, you can also find hotels and motels throughout the town. 

Coventry

Coventry Township is a part of Southern Summit County, Ohio. It is the "Heart of Portage Lake." There is a wide range of outdoor opportunities and activities, with five township parks and the Firestone Metropolitan Park (right outside Coventry's borders). A 27-minute drive north of Coventry will take you to Cayuhoga Valley National Park, where you can enjoy abundant recreational activities.

In 1995, Coventry Township became the first in the US to stop annexation after large tracts of land were annexed to Akron and Barberton.

Coventry Clocktower is near historic Hohman's Landing. The Landing offers a beautiful waterfront view, looking west from East Reservoir in the Portage Lakes area of Summit County. Coventry Clocktower is a historic landmark.

A trip to Coventry in December can be delightful. In early December, the town gathers to witness the annual tree lighting and indulge in a free, family-friendly event with games, refreshments, carriage rides, and more.

Traveling a little over five miles from Coventry will allow you to partake in the Great Escape Room in Akron, Ohio. While Coventry is a great weekend getaway, you'll find more dining and lodging options outside town. However, the charming town is worth visiting.

Athens

Athens is a small college town along the border of the Hocking Hills and the Hocking River. It is a beautiful small town to visit during the fall. The colorful foliage is bright and bold, and when combined with the crisp, clean air, it seems like a scene out of a holiday movie.

The Hocking Hills is one of the state's most spectacular regions. There is no shortage of things to do or sites to see. While the bustling college town seems like the perfect getaway for young adults (Court Street is the hot spot for young adults looking for thrills and excitement), there is something fun for the whole family. History and art buffs can stop into the OHIO Museum Complex and Kennedy Museum of Art.

Adults can hit a small burlesque-themed restaurant called O'Betty's Red Hot, which serves many hot dog options. It is a small place, but the food options are delightful, and the experience is unique.

Stroll through Athens's Downtown Historic District or stop at the Armory to glimpse the past. The town is full of charming small businesses but maintains a beautiful natural scenery. Athens offers many lodging options, including hotels, motels, and beautiful bed and breakfasts. Deer Ridge Bed and Breakfast is ideal for small groups and families.

Charm

Charm is an unincorporated community positioned in the rolling hills of Holmes County, Ohio. Fun fact: Baby Swiss cheese was developed during the mid-1960s outside of Charm by the Guggisberg Cheese Company.

If you are looking for a getaway that moves at a slower pace, Charm is for you. Visitors marvel at the town's homey atmosphere and lush countryside and get a glimpse of the Amish lifestyle. While it may be slow-paced, there is much to discover, including cozy lodgings in Ohio's Amish country to local shops stocked with uniquely crafted merchandise.

Mrs. Miller's Cabin is a homey hideaway in Charm that is perfect for families or a gathering of friends—looking for a rustic romantic getaway? A 15-minute drive will lead you to Millersburg, where you will find an exceptional place called the Inn at Honey Run that provides lodging and an in-house restaurant.

The Victorian Museum is a sight to behold. Step inside and take a walk through time back into the Victorian Era. Yodder's Amish Home and Farm is a beautiful place to experience Amish culture and history. Enjoy an Amish buggy ride and guided tours where you can immerse yourself in the Amish culture and lifestyle.

Charm is a spectacular small town if you are looking for that much-needed rest. It is a place that allows you to slow down and enjoy the ride. Enjoy authentic Amish meals, but make sure to leave room for dessert. 

Cambridge

Cambridge is the county seat of Guernsey County, Ohio. It lies in southern Ohio, in the Appalachian Plateau of the Appalachian Mountains, around 75 miles east of Columbus.

Cambridge has famous attractions, including the Living World Amphitheater, Salt Fork State Park, and the National Museum of Cambridge Glass. The area perfectly blends charm, modern, and tried-and-true-lodging options.

The Great Guernsey Trail is an excellent 14-mile (round trip) trail for a leisurely stroll. The Great American Steam Locomotive Museum is full of original railroad memorabilia pieces and home to a unique sound tree. Dickens Victorian Village takes visitors back to experience old-world England, as Downtown Cambridge is transformed every holiday season. This event only takes place during November and December, providing over 92 scenes and 180 figurines straight out of the Victorian Era.

Theo's Restaurant is a comfortable restaurant serving traditional American dishes and delicious homemade pies, while The Forum Restaurant offers Greek, Italian, and American cuisine. Colonel Taylor Inn Bed and Breakfast is a historic B&B full of character. If you prefer to sleep under the stars, you can choose from a handful of campgrounds. Hotels and motels are abundant, leaving visitors with numerous options.

Sandusky

Sandusky is beautifully situated along the shores of Lake Erie and the Sandusky Bay Shoreline. This Ohio city is famous for its family attractions, from nature and wildlife to water and amusement parks.

Sandusky is known as the Best Coastal Small Town in America. This growing lake town destination is home to the world-class amusement park Cedar Point. It is also known as the state's Water Park Capital for its year-round indoor water park resorts.

Ferries and island-hopping cruises drift off from downtown locations daily (in season). The area has several beautiful parks for picnics and fun with the kids. You can find a wealth of history and historic sites, including areas known for being a part of the Underground Railroad. The architecture in downtown Sandusky is astounding.

Merry-Go-Round Museum features a working vintage carousel, while the Maritime Museum of Sandusky offers exhibits on shipwrecks and boatbuilding. Space buffs can visit NASA Neil A. Armstrong Test Facility. It is home to some of the world's largest space simulation facilities.

Kalahari Resorts and Conventions offers the Farrell House Lodge and South Beach Resort Hotel Cottages and Marina. 

While Sandusky brings big-town attractions, it is full of small-town appeal.

Geneva

Geneva, not to be confused with Geneva-On-The-Lake (they are only 9 minutes away from each other), was originally settled in 1805 and incorporated in the late 1950s. Interestingly, the town was named after Geneva, New York. This town is part of the Cleveland Metropolitan Area.

"Ohio's Wine Country" offers many attractions and activities for visitors like you. Geneva offers hiking in nature preserves, nearby parks, and the local wineries and vineyards. There are events and festivals year-round, and exploring downtown provides a gateway to unique shops and restaurants.

Genova is home to various historical landmarks and museums, providing opportunities to learn about the area's heritage and cultural history. The Jennie Munger Gregory Museum is an 1823 farmhouse on the shore of Lake Erie; it features exhibits on Ashtabula County's history and family rooms furnished in the Victorian Era style.

Blueberry Railroad combines a pick-your-own blueberry farm and a model railroad. The farm is open during the summer when the blueberries are in season. The small train is a 1/8th scale model that runs on a two-mile track against a gorgeous backdrop. While it might not be a ride on the Hogwarts Express, it makes for a beautiful afternoon in the countryside.

Kelleys Island

Kellys Island is the smallest town on this list, with a population of 257. Dubbed "An Island For All Seasons," the beautiful island is along the western basin of Lake Erie, about four miles north of Marblehead and only twelve miles from Cedar Point.

During the last Ice Age, massive ice sheets formed Lake Erie and the Great Lakes. As the glaciers created the lakes, they rolled over a massive block of Columbus Limestone, leaving behind Kelleys Island. While many glacial grooves were uncovered and quarried, the Kelleys Island Lime and Transport Company set aside one magnificent portion to be preserved. The Glacial Grooves are one of the island's most popular attractions today.

Kellys Island is the largest of Ohio's Lake Erie islands and is dominated by natural areas. It appeals to nature, bird lovers, and anyone searching for a quiet, relaxing getaway. Inscription Rock is a unique historical landmark. The rock was rediscovered in the 1800s, partly buried in the shoreline. Today, it is entirely exposed and covered by a roof with a viewing platform. Inscription Rock contains Native American petroglyphs dating from 1200 to 1600 AD.

The island's sandy state park beach, rocky shorelines, luxuriant forests, historic homes and sites, and wineries are all inviting. If you have a sweet tooth, stop into Taste by The Lake Cafe Bakery for some sweet treats, or hit the Island Fudge Shop. Kelleys Island's downtown area offers a cluster of restaurant varieties to appease the palette and tantalize your tastebuds. Eagle's Nest Inn, Water's Edge Retreat, Kelleys Island Venture Resort, and Craft's Lakeview Lane are exceptional lodging options.

Vermillion

Vermillion is considered the "Harbor Town" and a crowning jewel of the southern shore of Lake Erie. You can find quaint little shops, exquisite dining, the arts, entertainment, and many festivities here. 

This historic harbor town dates back to 1837. Today, you can enjoy the beautiful Main Street Beach, several parks, and various events year-round. You can expect sidewalk entertainment, including artists, bazaars, live entertainment, festivals, and various parades.

Rail buffs love the constant railroad action, with at least five trains cruising through town every hour. Harbor View Park is home to a spectacular lighthouse. Take the kids over to the Linwood Park playground. You might want to stop into the Silly Goose Gift Shop for unique gifts. The town also has an Ancient Celtic Shop full of exciting items.

The Captain Bell House Bed and Breakfast is a fine place to enjoy a meal before bed. If you brought your beloved pet on this weekend getaway, it might be worth stopping into Tails of Vermillion. In this one-of-a-kind pet shop, the owner donates 100 percent of the business proceeds to animal shelters and rescues.

A Memorable Journey Through Ohio's Small Towns

These small towns are perfect for a weekend getaway. While they are small, they tend to have a profound impact on anyone who visits. There is much to do, see, and experience in Ohio. From the state's beautiful landscapes, rivers, and trails to the attractions and sites to see. This list of small towns is bound to appeal to people with varying interests and ideals. There is much to do, whether looking for a quiet and relaxing reprieve or an upbeat and exciting experience.