9 Best Ohio Towns For A Weekend Trip

Ohio's strategic location in the Midwest means it is within a day's drive for over half of America's population. But it is not just another pit stop on your journey through the region; the Buckeye State has big, bustling cities like Columbus and laid-back, little towns, each with a distinct charm. Those seeking a break from the urban rigors have multiple escape options to submerge themselves in the serenity that dominates rural Ohio.

From the secluded shores of Lake Erie in Put-in-Bay to the scenic banks of the Ohio River in Portsmouth, these adorable communities have the ingredients for a relaxing retreat. Their easygoing atmospheres, rich natural surroundings, and slow pace of life allow guests to catch some mellow vibes while reveling in life's simple pleasures. Whether an outdoor lover, history enthusiast, or culinary connoisseur, these are the best Ohio towns for a weekend trip.

Geneva-On-The-Lake

Appropriately named for its isolated setting on the Lake Erie shoreline, Geneva-on-the-Lake enchants travelers with sandy beaches and endless outdoor adventure. The atmosphere is tranquil in Geneva State Park, host to a 698-acre coastal playground with one of the best beaches in the region. Its 600-foot waterfront and over 100 campsites make it a hub for hikers, swimmers, sunbathers, campers, and picnickers. On the other hand, guests can up the ante with a daring adventure courtesy of Lake Erie Canopy Tours. This adrenaline-inducing excursion features 60-foot sky bridges and ziplines over trees and sparkling waters of the lake.

If you'd like to experience the town from the water, you can book a tour with DB Sport Fishing for trips to nearby destinations like Oak Harbor and Port Clinton. After an adventurous day, the Lakehouse Inn provides cozy accommodation with luxurious amenities like a full-service spa.

Marietta

Ohio's "Riverboat Town" is full of historical significance, evidenced by vintage attractions and old-world architecture. The Campus Martius Museum depicts Marietta's formative years as the first settlement in the Northwest Territory. It features a pair of old structures from the 18th century, with artifacts providing a first-hand experience of frontier life. The town's riverside setting allows access to the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, with the Valley Gem Sternwheeler taking guests on easygoing sightseeing excursions to admire the scenery.

Those who appreciate green outdoor settings can escape to Kroger Wetlands, where a 3-mile hiking trail traverses a serene wetland area with diverse animal and plant species. Finally, staying at the Lafayette Hotel guarantees a good night's sleep.

Millersburg

Millersburg is a quaint community smack in the heart of Ohio's Amish Country, known for its trademark simple way of life and fascinating Amish culture. It attracts droves of tourists looking for an authentic taste of Amish living at Yoder's Amish Home. This interactive and educational center showcases local culture through buggy rides, farm tours, petting zoo visits, and schoolhouse tours. The Millersburg Glass Museum interests guests with a vast collection of rare glassware produced in the early 1900s. Highlighting the pile is a magnificent piece called "Peoples Vase," valued at least $100,000.

Elsewhere, Hershberger's Farm and Bakery welcomes newcomers to savor delicious Amish homebaked goods, jellies, produce, and pickles. It also has a traditional craft section and a petting zoo area. The Victorian-style Hotel Millersburg grants a rustic lodging experience in an 1847 building.

Waynesville

Nicknamed "Antiques Capital of the Midwest," Waynesville harbors dozens of antique stores throughout its downtown region and boasts serene natural surroundings. This makes it a perfect stop for antiquing, with access to an impressive stockpile of primitives and collectibles at the Waynesville Antique Mall. Its friendly atmosphere is ideal for meeting fellow enthusiasts and establishing meaningful connections. The Museum at the Friends Home preserves various aspects of the region's past. This early 20th-century Quaker boarding house harbors over 20 rooms of exhibits highlighting the formative days.

Outdoorsy tourists can take advantage of numerous opportunities throughout the 4,700-acre Caesar Creek State Park. The nature center houses a sprawling lake, looping trails, and campsites, culminating in a popular hub for hikers, horseback riders, campers, anglers, and boaters. Lastly, Creekwood Motel is a suitable option for pocket-friendly accommodation.

Loveland

This quaint municipality in southwestern Ohio is a popular escape for traveling families, famous for its rich history and family-friendly adventures. It is home to the Loveland Historical Society Museum, which chronicles the town's history since its inception in 1795. A diverse stockpile of exhibits, including a model mill, archival items, and a model of Historic Loveland's train stations, provide a look into the past. The Loveland Castle Museum impresses guests with its rustic architecture and medieval appearance. It was built in the 1920s and surrounded by manicured gardens and picnic spots overlooking the Little Miami River.

Lake Isabella provides a nice escape for the whole family. At 28 acres, the little sanctuary cultivates lazy boating sessions and fishing opportunities in a serene setting. When you need a comfortable place to rest your head for the night, look no further than the Hilton Garden Inn.

Granville

Granville's storied history manifests in its rustic historic district, where a cluster of old buildings with vintage architecture creates the illusion of being in an earlier era. The Bryn Du Mansion offers a glimpse into the past in a grandeur Federal-style home. It sits on a 52-acre estate and hosts at least 50 rooms with period artifacts and finishings. A maze of gardens, picnic areas, and trails occupy the rest of the property, making it a hub for various social events.

Just nearby, the historic Granville Inn treats guests to a wholesome accommodation experience. It was built in the early 1900s and is set against the backdrop of rolling hills, imposing trees, and a pristine golf course. Granville has a bustling craft brewery scene, which allows for several spots to chill out after hours. For tasty homegrown beers, visit Three Tigers Brewing Company or the Lot Beer Company.

Put-In-Bay

This lovely getaway on South Bass Island is one of the best Ohio towns for a weekend trip due to its secluded setting and family-centric pursuits. Visitors can best explore it aboard the Put-in-Bay Tour Train, which presents a mellow-paced narrated tour exploring the downtown area. It highlights various points of interest you can better experience in your own time. For fun with the young ones, there is no better place than Perry's Cave Family Fun Center. This friendly complex harbors various activities, including a mini golf course and rock climbing section.

Elsewhere, those who want to revel in the breezy Lake Erie shoreline can head to South Bass Island State Park. This 33-acre refuge has a pleasant beach for swimmers and anglers and a boat launch to get on the sprawling waters. Meanwhile, the Put-in-Bay Resort Hotel is one of the best locations to spend the night on the island.

Cumberland

Cumberland promises the perfect getaway from the city with exciting outdoor adventures and rare cultural experiences. It is best known for the Wilds, a 10,000-acre safari park with endless adventures. Guests hike, bike, and drive through the reserve to admire a wide selection of wildlife species, including white rhinos and zebras. The park also includes ziplining, picnicking, fishing, and sunset-watching activities. Almost ten ziplines zigzag over the park, delivering an adrenaline-filled perspective of the Wilds ecosystem from above.

Elsewhere, Cumberland City Park provides a more kid-appropriate alternative with an outdoor swimming pool, playground, and basketball courts. If you are not trying to spend sparingly on your accommodation, Comfort Inn & Suites in nearby Caldwell is a suitable option.

Logan

This hidden gem in the Hocking Hills region beckons tourists to immerse in outdoor adventures amidst a beautiful natural setting. It boasts the Hocking Hills State Park, whose allure is punctuated by towering cliffs, deep gorges, stunning waterfalls, and dramatic rock formations. With over 25 miles of trail cascading through the park, hikers and bikers have free rein to discover its numerous natural wonders, highlighted by Ash Cave and the Old Man's Cave. Logan is chock full of canoe liveries, and guests can book a tour with Hocking Hills Adventures for unforgettable excursions down the Hocking River.

Meanwhile, you can hunt for vintage treasures at the Logan Antique Mall for a change of scenery. This quaint location has a collection of old books, cookie jars, coins, china, and more by at least 100 dealers. Lastly, consider staying at Sleep Inn Logan for a cozy and uninterrupted night's rest.

Final Thought

Ohio's unique charm persists across the four seasons and is best experienced away from the chaotic scene of its metro areas. Rural destinations are tailored for relaxing retreats to let your shoulders fall, as seen in these exciting Ohio towns for a weekend trip. Whether you plan to escape to the serene shores of Lake Erie in Geneva-on-the-Lake or immerse in the forested backcountry of Logan, you can look forward to a remarkable getaway in the United States that will rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul.