9 Most Unconventional Towns In Ohio

The Buckeye State fascinates tourists with its blend of urbanity and rurality. On the one hand, it hosts bustling metropolises like Cleveland and Columbus with all the creature comforts synonymous with top American cities. On the other hand, it is home to quaint little towns on the fringes of the state, where sprawling farms and state parks showcase Ohio's natural splendor and friendly, down-to-earth locals demonstrate trademark Midwestern hospitality.

But some of these towns go against the grain to interest visitors with quirky roadside installations, haunted mansions, unusual traditions, and eccentric festivals, promising a rare and refreshing experience you won't find elsewhere. From being marooned in the middle of a national park in Peninsula to exploring a field of giant corns in Dublin, these unconventional towns in Ohio will have you scratching your head in confusion.

Twinsburg

Founded by identical twins Moses and Aaron Wilcox in the 1810s, Twinsburg has maintained a remarkable tradition of hosting the world's largest gathering of twins. This annual phenomenon happens at the famous Twins Day Festival, which features a weird sense of deja vu. It is celebrated with a host of family-friendly activities, from photo ops and tournaments to kids' games and live music. At the Twinsburg Historical Society, guests can learn intriguing stories about the town's pioneer days, including how the name changed from Millsville to Twinsburg.

The area boasts pleasant green spaces with several hiking and biking trails. Many of these are accessible within the 3,000 acres of Liberty Park, which comprises a mix of maple forestland, wetland, and swamps and provides a habitat for rare species like Indiana bats, bald eagles, red-backed salamanders, and otters.

Hilliard

Hilliard's rich history, tranquil parks, and vibrant historic district make it a popular tourist destination under 20 minutes from Columbus. However, it is most famous for the Early Television Museum, home to a quirky collection of tube TVs from the 1920s and 1960s. The museum takes guests on a surreal journey through television history. Several outdoor areas, including Heritage Trail Park, allow tourists to commune with nature. Covering 87 acres, this tranquil oasis is perfect for spending time with your canine companion and offers a 6.1-mile multi-use trail.

Those with kids can take them to Get Air Columbus for a fun time amongst peers. This fun amusement center provides everything from trampolines and foam pits to a ninja obstacle course, delivering unadulterated entertainment for its young patrons.

Bellaire

From unusual museums to dreaded paranormal experiences, Bellaire promises a spectrum of emotions during your visit. It lures fans of the dark and mysterious with gripping tours of the haunted Bellaire House. Considered one of the world's most haunted homes, this eerie experience leaves many holding their breath as they encounter unexplained shadows, strange footsteps, and phantom whispers.

First-timers can learn about the town's glass-making heritage at the National Imperial Glass Museum as they browse an exquisite collection of historic glass exhibits from the Imperial Glass Company. The town further stamps its "Glass City" reputation with the National Imperial Glass Convention. This annual gathering draws glass enthusiasts from around the country with exquisite exhibitions, auctions, and other events.

Greenville

Greenville is best known as the final resting place of Annie Oakley, considered by many to be the world's most famous sharpshooter. Admirers come in droves to pay homage to the iconic lady who shook the male-dominated field of marksmanship with her superior skills. Her rich legacy lives on at Garst Museum, which houses the National Annie Oakley Center and over 300,000 artifacts. Meanwhile, the annual Annie Oakley Festival celebrates and immortalizes her with a weekend of live music, Wild West fun, and family-centric activities.

The town is also home to Darke County's oldest industrial building, Bear's Mill. The rustic four-story structure dates back to 1849 and exposes vacationers to the inner workings of a classic mill.

Peninsula

Situated in the middle of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, this secluded village is one of the most off-the-beaten-path towns in Ohio. Peninsula offers the perfect base to explore Ohio's only national park and is a remarkable opportunity for complete outdoor immersion. Wear comfortable hiking shoes to take on the Ledges Overlook Trail, which ends at a picturesque vantage point overlooking the park's dense wilderness. While discovering the outdoors, remember to visit the Everett Covered Bridge for a neat perspective of covered bridge architecture in the late 19th century.

Finally, hop on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad for an exciting sightseeing excursion on a vintage train through the park. The trip features endless photogenic scenes of the region's natural beauty and endemic wildlife species.

Mansfield

Ardent fans of the Shawshank Redemption can take a once-in-a-lifetime tour that relives several scenes in the cult-classic movie. Mansfield is nationally recognized as the home of the Ohio State Reformatory, where most of the film was shot. Ranging over the 1886 jail building reveals countless stories about the young offenders who were incarcerated in the facility, from tragic to inspiring. Besides the jailhouse, the Shawshank Trail consists of other notable sites in the movie, including the opening scene cabin where Tim Robbins’ character's wife is murdered.

Kingwood Center Gardens offers the ideal escape for nature lovers in Mansfield. The 47-acre sanctuary is dotted with gardens and greenhouses traversed by quiet woodland trails, which guests can stroll to admire colorful floral displays and plant species.

Logan

Between its whimsical museums and unusual festivals, Logan is a major stop for tourists seeking an out-of-the-ordinary experience. The town harbors the Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum, where you will find the world's most extensive pencil sharpener collection. This includes at least 3,400 sharpeners from across the globe, assembled over 20 years. Meanwhile, the Columbus Washboard Company has been producing ribbed boards since 1895 and is practically a museum. People also visit Logan for the Washboard Arts & Music Festival, which features live music, motorcycle shows, craft exhibits, and more.

Finally, don't leave without venturing into Hocking Hills State Park, whose dramatic cliffs, beautiful waterfalls, and mystic caves promise countless natural wonders. With 25 miles of hiking trails weaving through the reserve, you will want to check out the popular Old Man's Cave trail.

Dublin

Dublin interests curious travelers with larger-than-life sculptures and eccentric roadside installations. Art enthusiasts love to gather at the Field of Corn for an opportunity to examine rows of giant corn ears made out of concrete and spread over acres of grassy fields. The site is popular among visitors seeking fun photo ops. The Chief Leatherlips Monument is another notable landmark you will want to capture on your camera. This 12-foot-high sculpture honors a warrior and leader of the Wyandot tribe who was executed in 1810.

Furthermore, the Ballantrae Community Park and Spray Fountains delight newcomers with the "dancing hares" sculpture and fountains in a green space surrounded by man-made boulders. It is an excellent spot to relax and admire the artsy installations in a serene environment.

North Ridgeville

This quaint village on the border of Lorain County hosts one of the most unconventional traditions in the state. The Annual Skunk Fest is an odd festival celebrating skunks. Pet owners and admirers congregate at South Central Park, where attendees have the rare chance of being sprayed by one of the most avoided creatures on earth. The thick wilderness of Sandy Ridge Reservation presents a playground for adventurers, with 526 acres of marshland environment hosting birding, hiking, wildlife-watching, and nature photography opportunities.

North Ridgeville's vibrant restaurant scene allows guests to sample exotic flavors after an eventful day discovering the town. If you enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, stop by Tacos del Pueblo Mexican Grill for luscious burritos, fajitas, and tacos.

If you are bored with the typical tourist experience, these unconventional towns in Ohio invite you to enjoy their offbeat attractions. They are a fresh breath of air and promise a bag of surprises in the United States. From walking through haunted hallways in Mansfield to mingling with fellow skunk fans in North Ridgeville, possibilities for the quirky and unconventional abound. Come with an open mind and be ready to embrace whatever these unusual Ohio communities throw at you; you might just acquire a new taste!