11 Stunning Small Towns In Ohio

Ohio shines as a year-round small-town destination in the Midwest, with varied landscapes, rich history, and lively local culture woven across the map. From the rolling beauty of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where Peninsula’s Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad winds through the forest, to the waterfront tranquility and Great Lakes views of Put-In-Bay, the state offers far more than expected. In Chagrin Falls, a waterfall rushes in the center of town, while Zanesville is defined by the architecture of its iconic Y-Bridge.

Elsewhere, walkers and cyclists glide along the Little Miami Scenic Trail in Loveland, while outdoor enthusiasts venture along the forests and cliffs surrounding Logan. Many of these destinations sit just an hour’s drive from major metropolitan centers, offering easy escapes that feel worlds away. Whether seeking outdoor adventure or a step back in time, these 8 stunning destinations below should be on your next Ohio itinerary.

Peninsula

This village sits in the heart of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where travelers can explore more than 125 miles of outdoor trails year-round. Tails run through woods, across streams, and even past waterfalls. In the winter, the snow-blanketed trails are transformed into a winter wonderland.

The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which provides the reserve as a scenic backdrop, offers an opportunity to ride aboard a vintage railcar. While the railcar began tourist operations in the 1970s, the tracks take riders on a voyage down the tracks laid in the 1880s, as if traveling back in time.

Winter is when this village is at its best, thanks to the nearby Boston Mills Ski Resort. This charming retreat pairs cozy lodging and dining with a full array of activities on the slopes. From simple snow tubing to skiing and snowboarding, the local ski resort brings out the adventure in the Midwest's snowy landscape.

Chagrin Falls

Located just a 40-minute drive from Cleveland, this small town of less than 5,000 showcases a walkable and captivating historic village with a rare feature. Right in the heart of this downtown lies a natural waterfall that draws locals and visitors alike year-round. When the harsh Midwest winter arrives, this feature gains new life as it freezes over into an ice sculpture made by the elements.

Chagrin Falls is all about its natural beauty. In the heart of town, the Ben King Arboretum provides a stroll through wildflowers and trees. Continue on through the River Walk Trail, which runs between the arboretum and the Cleveland Street bridge. Overall, this trail takes walkers on a one-mile loop, providing a short excursion further into nature.

Culture enthusiasts will find joy in Chagrin Falls’ thriving arts scene. Take in local works, purchase a piece, or create with classes at the Valley Art Center. Meanwhile, Chagrin Valley Little Theatre offers plays in a hall full of history. Founded in 1930, the local playhouse offers a rotation of shows throughout most of the year.

Granville

While home to Denison University, Granville stands out for its New England-style streets and timeless character. Traveling around this town transports one far from developed cities, as the area is surrounded by flora and trees. Raccoon Creek winds through the heart of town, adding a peaceful, scenic backdrop to walks and drives alike.

Escape into the outdoors in one of Granville’s many recreational areas. Infirmary Mound Park is home to seven miles of trails and a small lake, known as Mirror Lake, for recreation such as swimming and kayaking. The park is also home to a historic Native American mound, signs marking the location that connect tourists to the area’s ancient past.

Just south of the village, Spring Valley Nature Preserve spans 45 acres of forested beauty. Explore its 12 scenic trails or unwind with a picnic at the shelter house, surrounded by the calm of the woods.

Marietta

Nestled on the Ohio-West Virginia border, lies this river town full of US history. Located along the Muskingum and Ohio River, it offers sightseers the opportunity to take a 90-minute cruise down the river on the Valley Gem Sternwheeler, a paddlewheel ship giving a historic feel.

At the Campus Martius Museum, travelers can get a glimpse into Ohio’s early days and learn about the first people to settle in the state. The museum also offers an engaging look at frontier life through the story of the Marietta and Northwest Territory settlements.

Tourists will also find the 19th-century Marietta Castle an attractive choice. Built in 1855 in a Gothic Revival architecture, the castle was home to many notable Ohio figures. For a fee, guests can tour the preserved historic residence.

Zanesville

Zanesville is known for the Muskingum and Licking rivers, which converge into one of its most recognizable structures. The town’s Y Bridge boasts uniqueness, as there is a fork in its road leading motorists to one of two sides of the Muskingum River. Multiple bridges and roadways cross these rivers, making for not just a rare experience, but a picturesque drive.

The town also boasts a vibrant local arts scene. The Zanesville Museum of Art houses a collection of more than 8,000 works spanning a variety of periods and styles, offering visitors a rich cultural experience. Meanwhile, the Zanesville Community Theatre brings stories to life through culturally relevant productions performed by local actors. As a volunteer-run community theater, it reflects the creativity and spirit of the town itself.

Yellow Springs

This small town sees the expansive Little Miami Scenic Trail run through the heart of town. Follow it to one of the multiple reserves or venture off into the downtown, which is full of shops, restaurants, breweries, and a lively art scene. The historic Little Art Theatre is an icon of the local culture, and highlights independent, first-run, or international release films.

Nature enthusiasts have no shortage of options when it comes to Yellow Springs, with multiple reserves along the picturesque Little Miami River. John Bryan State Park is named the most attractive of these woodlands, featuring a limestone gorge cut by the Little Miami River. A section of the gorge has been formally recognized as a national natural landmark.

That’s not the end of the landscape shaped by the river. Stroll through two miles of woods and waterfalls while gazing upon towering gorges through the river in Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve. As to where the town got its name, Glen Helen Nature Preserve features the landmark Yellow Spring, which appears to flow yellow-orange in color due to the high iron content in the water.

Loveland

Just over an hour away from Yellow Springs, down the Little Miami River, lies Loveland. Walk or bike along the Little Miami Scenic Trail, which runs parallel to the Little Miami River, and straight through the historic heart of town.

Those craving nature can visit the nearby Nisbet Park, which lies on the east side of the river. The green space features a walking trail along a butterfly sanctuary and pollinator habitat. Have a picnic on the grounds, or venture over to the riverbank for a peaceful walk along the water. Adjacent to the park lies the Little Miami Scenic Trail. Not to miss is the Little Miami Scenic Bridge, a former low railroad bridge over the O’Bannon Creek transformed into a walking path.

Venture east and discover East Loveland Nature Preserve, which presents walking trails through a wooded area along the O’Bannon Creek. These trails are perfect for wildlife spotting, especially bird watching.

Athens

While home to Ohio University and the Hocking River, which runs through the area, this small college town offers a taste of the countryside. Visitors can wander the walkable downtown lined with 19th‑century architecture or take a scenic drive to explore the scenic routes that surround the area.

Strouds Run State Park offers miles of scenic hiking across six different trails. Go horseback riding, spot wildlife, or visit Dow Lake, which lies in the center of the recreational area. During the months when snow falls, the area is a popular spot for sledding and cross-country skiing.

Wistendahl Native Plant Garden showcases more than 130 species of native plants, offering travelers an opportunity to learn about the region’s natural heritage. The garden also protects several species that are currently listed as endangered, highlighting its role in both education and conservation.

Logan

Just 25 miles northwest of Athens, also along the Hocking River, lies this community tucked into the hills of Hocking County. Sightseers can stroll through the downtown district, where an array of local shops and eateries line the streets. A gem to be found is the Columbus Washboard Company, the last operating manufacturer in the nation of this fading craft.

Framed by its 400-acre lake, Lake Logan State Park offers a remarkable landscape for every taste. Swim in the clear waters, go fishing, or take a leisurely sail or paddle. Closer to shore, walk along the more than one-mile portion of the Buckeye Trail, which traverses the park’s northwest edge and leads to Hocking Hills State Forest.

Just beyond town, Hocking Hills State Park offers miles of hiking across seven major trails, including a seasonal route featuring a waterfall and even guided winter hikes. Multiple waterfalls, a lake, and rock formations make this parkland scenic year-round. From lush woods in the warm months, to colorful leaves in the fall, to snow-covered trees and icy waters in the winter, there is no reason not to venture out into this Logan park.

Port Clinton

Situated along the Portage River and just steps from the shores of Lake Erie, lies this small coastal town with a waterfront setting. Whether arriving by land or by boat, visitors are greeted by the Port Clinton Lighthouse, whose presence has long been held as a symbol of the community.

The waters of Lake Erie offer fishing and boating opportunities, as well as waterside areas featuring small beaches. Go camping in one of the multiple campgrounds or head up to East Harbor State Park for adventures such as hiking and swimming.

Put-In-Bay

Just south of the Canadian border is a little town easy to overlook. Out on Ohio’s South Bass Island, surrounded by the sprawling waters of Lake Erie, is Put-in-Bay. Visitors cannot miss Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial, which was created as a tribute to America’s victory over British forces in the 1813 Battle of Lake Erie. The 352-foot Doric column rises 352 feet over the town, making it an outstanding landmark to locals and travelers alike.

South Bass Island State Park offers multiple options for those looking to lose themselves in the outdoors. Boat, swim, or fish in the salt-free waters of Lake Erie, or just relax on the beach. Go hiking on the reserve’s trails or camp overnight under the stars.

Those interested in stones and crystals will enjoy the Crystal Cave at the Heineman Winery. Home to the world’s largest geode, the cave offers views of walls covered by pale blue celestite crystals, some as large as three feet wide. Tours of the cave are offered May through September, and sightseers will be guided down 40 feet underground through this breathtaking formation.

Ohio's Natural Beauty

Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but these 11 spectacular small towns prove it can be found in places least expected. Across these small towns, Ohio’s natural landscapes take center stage in every season. Lively downtowns give way to waterfalls, forests, rivers, winding trails, and scenic drives, with each season adding its own vibe to the experience. From summer hikes and bike trails to winter skiing and frozen waterfalls, every destination offers a unique way to enjoy the outdoors year‑round. Ohio’s small towns provide endless opportunities to venture outside or take a scenic drive to appreciate the beauty that surrounds them.