The Most Underrated Towns In Ohio
While Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati remain the cream of the crop when it comes to Ohio travels, there are far too many great destinations that tourists barely notice. Granted, their remote locations and general lack of fanfare might explain this, but these overlooked towns hold the soul of the Buckeye State. Scattered between rolling farmland, quiet river valleys, and lakeside horizons, they reveal a slower, more authentic glimpse of Midwestern life.
Beyond the glow of big cities, these unassuming communities capture Ohio’s warm spirit, resilient history, and small-town pride, reminding travelers to consider venturing off the beaten path and discover untouched treasures. From Walnut Creek's rich Amish culture to Vermilion's relaxing lakeside setting, here is the 2025 list of most underrated towns in Ohio.
Burton
For a small town, Burton punches above its weight class with a rich mix of high-quality attractions. This Geauga County locale boasts untouched natural beauty, best personified by Eldon Russell Park. Spanning 132 acres along the relaxed banks of the Cuyahoga River, this picturesque wilderness offers an escape for kayakers, birders, canoers, and hikers seeking a quiet time amid nature. Ardent adventurers can venture deeper outdoors by visiting the 650-acre Lucia S. Nash Preserve. This vast natural space hosts a mix of glacial wetlands, a kettle lake, and mature white pines, offering opportunities for wildlife watching, birding, and hiking.
Beyond its outdoors, the Century Village Museum tells a unique story about Burton's bygone eras. This living history museum has multiple vintage structures and artifacts that portray the illustrious lives of pioneers.
Perrysburg
Many travelers find it hard to pay this Wood County municipality attention, considering that one of its immediate neighbors is the more fancied Toledo. Other than that, Perrysburg offers a balanced list of attractions that cater to all visitor needs, spoiling outdoor lovers with a 44-acre sanctuary at the W. W. Knight Nature Preserve. This quiet park features nature trails, boardwalks, and a fishing area, making it perfect for communing with nature. Elsewhere, historians will find interest in the Fort Meigs Historic Site. It features a reconstructed log fort from the 19th century, built during the War of 1812 to safeguard the Great Lakes.
Shoppers and diners can browse over 50 brand retail stores and restaurants at the Town Center at Levis Commons for something nice to buy or eat. Finally, spare a few hours to watch an amusing performance alongside excited locals at the Funny Bone Comedy Club.
Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon is a beautiful community in Knox County, situated along the picturesque banks of the Kokosing River. It spoils tourists with spectacular vistas of the waterway during a walk, run, or cycle along the Kokosing Gap Trail. This paved 14-mile route cuts through quiet sections of woods, exposing the town's countryside beauty. However, those visiting with family can take the kids to the Hiawatha Water Park for unforgettable fun in the water. This fun amusement center offers water slides, fountains, and pools for all ages.
The town's lively art scene gives culture vultures something interesting to look forward to. The Woodward Opera House is a must-visit for performance art lovers. It hosts a continuous itinerary of live performances, featuring talented local bands and other regional musical acts in a great indoor atmosphere.
Vermilion
The endless shoreline of Lake Erie harbors a multitude of beautiful towns and cities, although this adorable small town often gets overlooked in favor of its more popular neighbors, Cleveland and Sandusky. Vermilion promises tourists a remarkable experience, with access to a 300-foot lakefront at Main Street Beach. This lovely outdoor space is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and birdwatching, without worrying about crowds. The Vermilion Lighthouse represents the community's enduring seafaring heritage. Originating from the 19th century, it provides the perfect background for a photograph.
Vermilion invites art lovers to explore a curated collection of artworks by local creatives at Burning River Boutique, featuring a diverse range of paintings, photos, drawings, and posters. Alternatively, you can unwind with a bottle of fine homegrown wine at Paper Moon Vineyards & Winery.
Hillsboro
Hillsboro is an unheard-of town in Highland County that impresses first-time visitors with its vast array of fun attractions. Outdoor adventurers are in for an awesome experience, given access to Rocky Fork State Park. With over 2,000 acres of lakeside wilderness to explore, guests can immerse themselves in a range of activities, including swimming, camping, hiking, boating, and fishing. Alternatively, you can venture into the isolated trails of Fort Hill Earthworks & Nature Preserve to discover a 2,000-year-old Native American earthwork.
The Highland County Historical Society welcomes curious visitors to learn about the illustrious history of Hillsboro and the surrounding region, as presented through its extensive archives. Lastly, those with a penchant for quirky attractions will fancy pausing for a photo next to the World's Largest Horseshoe Crab.
Portsmouth
Portsmouth's remote location near the Kentucky state line makes it one of the most underrated towns in Ohio. However, this Ohio River town has much to offer tourists, starting with excellent family time at the Candyland Children's Museum. This indoor adventure center offers a range of interactive activities for children under 11 years old, featuring three floors of amazing discoveries. On the other hand, adults can settle for an exhilarating play or musical at the Portsmouth Little Theatre.
Portsmouth promises numerous opportunities for vacationers who simply feel at home in the open spaces. At Riverfront Park, you can find a quiet, grassy spot to chill and dwell in the soothing views of the Ohio River, which especially looks stunning against the backdrop of a romantic sunset.
Kent
This northeast Ohio community is renowned for its vibrant culture, lovely parks, and lively entertainment scene. The famous Kent Stage is a popular live performance venue in the community. It hosts a series of concerts throughout the year, drawing famous musical acts for electrifying sold-out shows. Several watering holes in the downtown district, including North Water Brewing Company, serve as popular evening gathering spots, where guests can interact with the welcoming locals while sipping artisanal lagers and ales.
Outdoors, Kent beckons adventurers with recreational activities at Al Lease Park. This delightful natural space features a scenic walking trail, picnic benches, a boardwalk, and a small lake, creating an ideal environment for slowing down and connecting with nature.
Walnut Creek
Walnut Creek may not be as popular as its fellow Amish Country communities, but this quaint Holmes County town delivers just as gratifying an experience. It attracts plenty of souvenir lovers, thanks to its numerous antique and gift shops. You can stop by the Walnut Creek Antique Mall to shop for diverse antiques, primitives, and collectibles from at least 40 vendors. The German Culture Museum houses a library of fascinating archives and artifacts that explain the community's origins, with a focus on its Amish, Swiss, and German heritages.
Tourists with a sweet tooth will love visiting Coblentz Chocolate Company, which produces gourmet candies from ingredients such as caramel, peanut butter, dairy cream, and crunchy nuts. Also, be sure to sample traditional Amish and German meals at Der Dutchman, served in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Hidden Gems In Ohio
From isolating yourself along the scenic shores of Lake Erie in Vermilion to immersing in the great outdoors of Burton, these underrated towns in Ohio showcase the state’s hidden charm and diversity. For each destination, tourists can expect to discover a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town culture that is often overlooked. Whether interested in the arts, curious about local cuisine, or craving peaceful outdoor gems, Ohio’s lesser-known communities are rife with exciting attractions that should be explored more often in the United States.
