These 13 Towns In Ohio Were Ranked Among US Favorites In 2025
Ohio may not always dominate national travel conversations, but in 2025, several of its towns earned notable recognition beyond the state. This curated list highlights 13 Ohio towns that drew national or multi-outlet attention this year, appearing in travel, lifestyle, and regional rankings or popularity lists for their history, setting, and community appeal. Rather than serving as a general overview of Ohio travel, these towns stood out for the distinct experiences and visibility they gained in 2025.
Barnesville
The town of Barnesville, located in the southeastern part of the state, was named one of Ohio’s best hometowns in 2025 by Ohio Magazine. During the fall season, the town hosts the Barnesville Pumpkin Festival, which draws nearly 100,000 visitors during its four-day run. The village’s Main Street architecture is regarded as one of the best examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture in Ohio, highlighted by the Bradfield Building, which was built as a bank in 1891.
The village’s history is preserved at the Watt Center for History and the Arts. Founded in 1863, the building later manufactured the first patented self-oiling mine wheel car. Inside, visitors can see six vaults, original wood paneling, tin ceilings, and exhibits that document the town’s industrial and cultural past.
Lakewood
Lakewood is known for its diversity and active local culture, making it one of Ohio’s most recognized cities. Located just west of downtown Cleveland, the town features a mix of independent shops, cafes, and neighborhood gathering spots. One of Lakewood’s highlights is Lakewood Park, which offers lakefront views of Lake Erie. Its Solstice Steps provide a setting for watching the sunrise, sunset, or spending time by the water.
Lakewood’s food scene includes several well-rated vegan and vegetarian options, including The Root Cafe and Cleveland Vegan. Residents also frequent the Lakewood Truck Park, a casual space with rotating food trucks, picnic tables, and an indoor bar. The concentration of locally owned shops within walking distance continues to shape Lakewood’s reputation as a walkable and community-focused place.
Marblehead
Marblehead, located at the tip of the Marblehead Peninsula, is one of Lake Erie’s lesser-known towns. With only a few hundred residents, it offers a quiet and relaxed setting. Marblehead Lighthouse State Park draws visitors throughout the year for its views and historic lighthouse, the oldest in continuous operation on the Great Lakes.
Downtown Marblehead includes local galleries, boutiques, and seafood restaurants, making it well suited for a slow afternoon visit. The Marblehead Galley is a casual restaurant serving American dishes, seafood, and drinks. A short drive away, East Harbor State Park offers trails, beaches, and birdwatching opportunities. The Kelleys Island Ferry provides access to nearby Lake Erie islands known for natural scenery and outdoor recreation.
Lebanon
Tucked in the heart of Warren County, Lebanon is a small town known for its historic downtown and established community atmosphere. Brick buildings, locally owned businesses, and a compact layout contribute to its walkable setting.
The town is best known for The Golden Lamb Inn, the state’s oldest continuously operating business. Established in 1803, the current brick structure dates to 1815. Over the years, the inn has hosted notable guests, including 10 U.S. Presidents, Charles Dickens, and Mark Twain.
Local establishments include The Broadway Barrel House, which serves craft cocktails, draft beer, and pub-style fare in an industrial-inspired setting. Another longstanding attraction is the Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, offering scenic train rides throughout the year and seasonal events such as the North Pole Express. Lebanon also hosts community gatherings like the Warren County Fair and Applefest. Its schools and proximity to Kings Island amusement park it within easy reach of regional attractions.
Put-in-Bay
Put-in-Bay is an island town located in Lake Erie. Just over three miles long and about one and a half miles wide, it offers a compact setting with a wide range of attractions. Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial overlooks the island and provides views of Lake Erie from its 352-foot observation deck. The site commemorates those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie.
Visitors often dine along the waterfront at The Boardwalk, known for perch, walleye, and lobster bisque. Golf carts are commonly used to get around the island, with stops that include Heineman’s Winery for tours and tastings. Popular gathering spots include the Beer Barrel Saloon and Mojito Bay. Seasonal shifts define the town’s pace, with active summers and quieter winters shaping the overall experience.
Yellow Springs
Nestled in Greene County, Yellow Springs is a village known for its arts community, outdoor access, and open atmosphere. It is also recognized as the hometown of comedian Dave Chappelle, who hosts shows at YS Firehouse, a repurposed fire station that now operates as a restaurant and comedy venue. Nearby, Glen Helen Nature Preserve offers forested trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing.
Downtown Yellow Springs features independent shops, cafes, and galleries arranged along walkable streets. Young’s Jersey Dairy remains a longtime local institution, serving homemade ice cream and farm-based meals. Public art and murals throughout the village contribute to its distinctive identity and continue to shape its reputation within the region.
Wooster
Wooster, the county seat of Wayne County, has a population of about 27,000 residents. The town is often referred to as a major dairy-producing town in Ohio, leading the state in dairy production. Its Victorian-style downtown includes more than four dozen independent shops offering local clothing, art, and food. Wooster is also home to the Ohio Light Opera, which stages both traditional and contemporary productions.
Outdoor spaces are spread throughout the town, with roughly 16 parks covering about 750 acres. Secrest Arboretum features themed gardens, including its Garden of Roses of Legend and Romance. Oak Hill Park spans 100 acres and includes wooded trails, while Christmas Run Park is known for its covered bridge and the Kiwanis Playground.
Peninsula
Peninsula is a small town located within Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Surrounded by trails, waterfalls, and forested landscapes, it serves as a base for exploring the park throughout the year. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad runs through the town, offering rides that highlight the surrounding scenery. In winter, the nearby Brandywine Ski Resort provides skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
A longtime local gathering place, Fisher’s has operated in the town since 1958 and is known for its rotating food specials and happy hours. Peninsula’s setting and seasonal activities support a slower pace that appeals to visitors looking for outdoor access and a quieter atmosphere.
Chagrin Falls
Chagrin Falls is a village in Cuyahoga County with a population of just under 4,000 residents. The town is centered on its namesake waterfall, which flows through downtown and has served as a gathering place since the 1800s.
The historic downtown features brick sidewalks and locally owned shops and restaurants overlooking the river. Nearby outdoor spaces, including Riverside Park, offer walking paths, picnic areas, and views of the falls. Dining options include Paris Room Bistro, known for European-inspired dishes, and the Popcorn Shop, a longtime local business that has operated since 1949. The Chagrin Falls Historical Society, located in the former Riverside School, documents the village’s early industrial history and community development.
Sugarcreek
Sugarcreek, often referred to as the “Little Switzerland of Ohio,” reflects its Swiss heritage through local architecture and cultural attractions. Swiss-style buildings and the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock are central features of the town and are easily accessed on foot.
Broad Run Cheesehouse & Swiss Heritage Winery is a popular stop for sampling Ohio-made wines and local cheeses. The Alpine Hills Museum highlights the area’s Amish and Swiss history. Nearby, the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum houses a large collection of restored steam locomotives. The surrounding countryside and small-town layout contribute to the town’s quiet pace and regional character.
Sandusky
Sandusky is a city in northern Ohio known for its family-oriented attractions and waterfront setting. It is best known as the home of Cedar Point, often referred to as the Roller Coaster Capital of the World. Visitors staying near the waterfront can access Lake Erie beaches and nearby recreation. Soak City, the water park connected to Cedar Point, offers seasonal activities during the warmer months. The Cedar Point Causeway offers lake views and a direct approach to the park.
The city is also home to Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, which features an indoor waterpark and year-round attractions. The Maritime Museum of Sandusky highlights the area’s history, including the story of the Ohio River and the W.P. Snyder Jr. towboat.
Marietta
Marietta is one of Ohio’s oldest towns and was founded in 1788 as the first permanent organized settlement in the Northwest Territory. Located along the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, the town is widely recognized for its historical significance. Its name honors Marie Antoinette in recognition of France’s support during the Revolutionary War.
Downtown Marietta features brick-lined streets, Victorian architecture, and river views. Historical attractions include the Ohio River Museum and the Campus Martius Museum, which document the town’s early development. Visitors can also take narrated river cruises aboard the Valley Gem Sternwheeler, offering views of the waterfront and the surrounding area.
Logan
Logan is the gateway to Hocking Hills State Park, one of Ohio’s most visited natural areas. The town provides access to a rural landscape known for cliffs, waterfalls, and hiking trails. The Grandma Gatewood Trail spans six miles and connects popular sites such as Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave. This route is also part of the Buckeye Trail system.
Accommodations in the area range from campsites to hotels, with cabins being a common option. Beyond the trails, Hocking Hills Winery offers local wines and weekend live music. Robbins Crossing Historical Village hosts programs and events throughout the year focused on Appalachian arts, crafts, and cultural traditions. The surrounding scenery and outdoor access define Logan’s role as a base for exploring the region.
Why These Towns Earned National Attention in 2025
In 2025, these 13 Ohio towns stood out for more than their local appeal. Each gained recognition or increased visibility across travel and lifestyle outlets for qualities that resonated beyond the state, including waterfront access, historic districts, outdoor settings, and community-centered downtowns. Together, they represent a range of Ohio towns that drew national attention in 2025 for experiences that consistently set them apart.
