8 Best Small Towns in Ohio to Visit in 2024

Ohio, known for its corn fields and agricultural wonders, might not be everyone’s top pick when traveling in the United States. Unbeknownst to many, Ohio is home to an eclectic mix of small towns, villages, and islands that can give you a plethora of unique vacation adventures in the U.S.

A Swiss-inspired village, an island escapade, and one of the oldest American settlements are just some of those unique experiences! So if you ever find yourself in the Buckeye State of the Midwest, here are the best small towns in Ohio to visit in 2024. Discover the charm of Ohio and learn why its anthem is called “Beautiful Ohio!”

Loveland

With its museums, historical sites, parks, and great views of the Little Miami River, it is hard not to love Loveland! Start by acquainting yourself with the city’s history and developments during the Victorian era like incorporation with the Loveland Historical Society Museum. Then, travel up north to visit the inspiring Loveland Castle Museum, which was built as a reminder of the honor, resiliency, and valor of knights from a bygone era.

The town also has something for outdoor enthusiasts, like renting a bike with Loveland Bike Rental and enjoying a scenic ride at the Little Miami Scenic Trail and River. The Nisbet Park & Amphitheater is another outdoor hub in town where locals gather to have a barbecue picnic, watch live performances, or simply enjoy nature. Other Loveland spots you should check out are The Quilter's Studio of Loveland, the small-town tavern of Narrow Path Brewing Co., and the 1950s dessert spot of Loveland Dairy Whip.

Yellow Springs

Yellow Springs is mostly visited for its amazing natural wonders and quaint old-town vibe on its Main Street. Strolling through downtown, you will find the town’s favorite watering hole, Ye Olde Trail Tavern; the charming small-town cinema of Little Art Theatre; and the magical souvenir shop of Little Fairy Garden.

A little ways from the town center is Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm, where you can try homemade ice cream and even ride a cow carousel! However, the main attraction of Yellow Springs, especially for outdoorsy folks, will always be the Glen Helen Nature Preserve. With hiking trails that lead to a tiny waterfall, a Raptor Center for injured birds, and a museum for Ohio’s native plants, Yellow Springs is a wonderland for nature lovers.

Millersburg

Located in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country, discover Millersburg’s old-world charm with attractions and excursions like the Victorian House Museum, culture and heritage tours, and the 1800s Hotel Millersburg. The Victorian House Museum details the past life of Millersburg’s residents, as well as the opulent lifestyle of the wealthy. Attached to the house is the Millersburg Glass Museum, which showcases the artistry of the town’s glasswork history.

If you do want a taste of luxury, stay at the historic Hotel Millersburg, a hotel that has been in service since 1847 and is considered Millersburg’s oldest and largest building. For a more grounded approach to Millersburg life, do the introductory Amish and Mennonite Heritage Tour to get acquainted with Amish traditions, or join the full Culture Tour to get to know the town more.

Granville

From effigy mounds to old inns, Granville has a mix of colonial and Native American history in its tourist spots. Make the Alligator Mound your first stop at Granville to see how the town has kept its Native American roots. After being amazed and baffled by this historic remnant, head over to the Granville Inn, a 100-year-old inn that stood the test of time while still brimming with Ohioan hospitality. The inn is fond of hosting unique events, such as afternoon tea and Murder Mystery dinner!

Other interesting spots in town that promote Granville’s love for the arts and history are the art hub of Bryn Du Mansion, the Granville Historical Society Museum, and the Robbins Hunter Museum. Do not skip on a sip and a snack at Three Tigers Brewing Company.

Sugarcreek

Sugarcreek stands out among all of the small towns in Ohio for its Swiss heritage. Lovingly called “The Little Switzerland of Ohio”, learn more about its heritage by going to the Alpine Hills Museum, filled with Swiss, German, and even Amish heritage. You can also visit during the Ohio Swiss Festival every September, where the town comes alive with Swiss food banquets and parades. Do not forget to take a selfie at the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock located at the center of Sugarcreek’s Swiss Village!

Sugarcreek also has non-Swiss attractions, such as The Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum which is all about the golden era of railroading, and the nearby wineries of Baltic Mill Winery and the Breitenbach Wine Cellars. For souvenirs and eats, Secret Garden has trinkets from around the world, while Dutch Valley Restaurant and Bakery serves hearty and comforting meals.

Put-In-Bay

With its resorts, tropical-like activities, and amazing views of Lake Erie, Put-In-Bay is one of the go-to Ohio destinations for an island escapade. Pick The Commodore Resort as your accommodation for condos with lakeside views, or go with Benson Ford Shiphouse to sleep in a ship-turned-vacation-home!

You can then explore the town on land by riding the scenic Tour Train, followed by a snapshot at the iconic Put-In-Bay sign. If you are feeling adventurous, cruise the waves on a Floating Tiki or see Put-In-Bay from above by parasailing! Feeling peckish after your island adventure? The Boardwalk is proud of its lobster dishes and premier views of Lake Erie.

Marietta

As the first permanent settlement in the Northwest Territory, Marietta is full of museums and historical sites that travelers can still enjoy today. The Campus Martius Museum, which focuses on Marietta’s founding; The Castle Historic House Museum, an 1855 Gothic Revival mansion open for tours; the macabre displays of Cawley & Peoples Mortuary Museum; and the Quadranaou Native American Mound are just some of the must-visit historical and fascinating sites in town.

Marietta also merges the new and old with some of its tours, namely a Historic Marietta Tour and a River Trail Tour on Segways! If you prefer a more vintage ride, Trolley Tours are also available. For a scenic tour, ride the Valley Gem Sternwheeler along the Muskingum River to see Marietta from a different perspective.

Ashtabula

Just an hour away from Cleveland is Ashtabula, another beautiful historic town along the shores of Lake Erie. The town made a significant contribution to the Underground Railroad movement during the Civil War, which you can learn more about at the Hubbard House Underground Railroad Museum.

Nearby, the Ashtabula Maritime & Surface Transportation Museum, housed in the old lighthouse keeper's home, teaches visitors about the town’s shipping history. You can see the lighthouse from there, which was recorded as the last lighthouse to be manned on Lake Erie. Other attractions in and around town include Lake Shore Park and Concessions, a Christmas light display every December, Hil-Mak Seafood Restaurant, and the BBQ hang-out spot of Briquettes Smokehouse.

Final Thoughts

Being surrounded by amazing states like Pennsylvania and Michigan, not many travelers make Ohio their vacation destination when visiting the U.S. Misconceptions like simply being a farmland state or having not-too-exciting attractions usually float around. However, this list proves that Ohio can bring in the fun and excitement just from its small towns.

From historic cities like Ashtabula and Marietta to the adorable Swiss village of Sugarcreek and the resort town of Put-In-Bay, these small towns in Ohio should put The Buckeye State in the spotlight. Time to include Ohio in your itinerary plans and discover the wealth of historic and leisure attractions from this Midwestern gem!