Why This Ohio Town Deserves More Attention
Founded in 1825 with the vision of becoming a utopian community in Ohio, Yellow Springs was named after a nearby natural spring rich in iron, believed to have healing properties. Although the utopian experiment ultimately failed due to internal conflicts, the town remained a health resort, attracting visitors seeking relaxation in its tranquil environment. Today, Yellow Springs continues to attract savvy travelers and has been recognized as one of 'America’s Coolest Small Towns' by Budget Travel. With its nearby apple orchards, limestone gorges, eclectic art scene, and historic taverns, Yellow Springs deserves a spot on your travel list in 2025.
Natural Parks and Preserves
Once considered a curative and healing retreat, Yellow Springs maintains much of its serene natural surroundings today. The Glen Helen Nature Preserve is one of the most prominent places to visit, offering over 20 miles of trails that wind through deciduous forestland. While hiking in the reserve, visitors will encounter a beaver dam, limestone cliffs, and the renowned Yellow Spring that gives the town its name. The reserve also features a raptor rehabilitation center, home to over 20 native raptors, including owls, hawks, eagles, and vultures, that travelers can observe in outdoor enclosures while learning more about these species.
John Bryan State Park is another great place to spend the day, particularly known for its beautiful limestone gorge. This gorge, a national landmark, was formed many years ago by the Little Miami State and National Scenic River, which carved through the rock to create the current existing formation. Those wanting to kayak or canoe down the river can start their journey off the boat launch that sits right outside of the park. Prefer to stay on dry ground? There are also ten different hiking trails to explore, with Storybook Trail being the most popular. More adventurous travelers can enjoy the many miles of mountain biking trails or the public rock climbing area as well.
Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve lies adjacent to John Bryan State Park, offering more hiking opportunities. This 268-acre preserve is home to one of the state’s most incredible dolomite and limestone gorges, stretching roughly 2 miles, and was registered as a National Natural Landmark in 1968. The gorge’s north-facing slopes, shaded and moist, create an ideal habitat for northern species like red baneberry, hemlock, Canada Yew, mountain maple, and arbor vitae. In spring, this area bursts to life with wildflowers, including the rare native snow trillium.
Farms and Orchards
Yellow Springs is home to a close-knit farming community, surrounded by the fertile farmlands of the Miami Township. Peifer Orchards is one of the most popular apple orchards in the area, opening to the public each summer and offering 25 varieties of apples, Ohio maple syrup, honey, baked goods, and freshly pressed apple cider. Between the summer and fall, travelers can visit the orchard and pick their own fresh fruit. For a bundle of fresh flowers, visit the Village Flower Farm starting in April, when 10,000 daffodils and tulips bloom, allowing you to pick your own batch to take home.
Young's Jersey Dairy has been an agricultural staple in Yellow Springs since 1869, providing the community with farm-fresh dairy, cheese, and homemade ice cream. Throughout the year, the farm hosts various events, including a January birthday celebration, ice cream and sundae sales, Easter egg hunts, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and car shows, so make sure to check the farm's calendar before your visit.
Arts Community
Yellow Springs’ art community has been thriving for decades. In 1983, a group of local artists established The Village Artisans, an art co-op designed to provide a platform for local artists and engage the community in the art scene. Today, travelers can visit this co-op, which showcases the work of around 20 artists, featuring handcrafted pottery, jewelry, woodworking, glasswork, photography, and paintings. For a memorable night, attend a screening at the Little Art Theatre, which shows an eclectic mix of films ranging from independent movies to international documentaries and cinema classics.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Travelers should make sure to arrive hungry in Yellow Springs because there are so many restaurants to try. Ye Olde Trail Tavern is the oldest tavern in the state, constructed originally of hand-hewn logs in 1827. In addition to a menu of mouthwatering pub food, visitors can enjoy a variety of craft beers, ciders, and wines. For a night of live entertainment, travelers can grab dinner at Peach’s Grill, which offers live band performances and karaoke nights alongside hand-crafted burgers. For a locally sourced and innovative meal, travelers can grab a bite at Sunrise Cafe, which sources its food from over 20 nearby farms, focusing on creating seasonal dishes whenever possible. For a locally crafted beer, travelers can grab a pint at Yellow Springs Brewery or Trail Town Brewing, two beloved breweries in the area.
Final Thoughts
With a population of less than 4,000 residents, it is no surprise that Yellow Springs sometimes flies under the radar. However, with three massive parks and preserves nearby, dairy and flower farms, independent film cinemas, and farm-to-market restaurants, it is clear why the town is on the rise. So don’t wait for its popularity to soar—explore Yellow Springs for yourself and discover what has been driving its growing appeal!
