Nestled within the heartland of the United States, Ohio unveils a hidden tapestry of charming towns that showcase a unique blend of history, culture, and natural splendor. Ohio’s beauty lies in its diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to picturesque lakeshores. Aptly nicknamed the Buckeye State, Ohio boasts towns that embody the warm hospitality and scenic allure that define the Midwest. From historic districts and vibrant arts scenes to breathtaking parks and riverside retreats, we unveil the most beautiful towns in Ohio, from a town in the heart of the state’s wine country to the state’s oldest established town.
Geneva-on-the-Lake
Begin your journey of the most beautiful towns in Ohio in the heart of wine country. Geneva-on-the-Lake is an ideal lakefront summer vacation spot fun for everyone! Take a tour at one of the many wineries Geneva-on-the-Lake has to offer or plan water sport activities with the family. No matter which routes you take, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip.
Start your journey by going on the Lake Erie Canopy tours, zipline tours that take you over Lake Erie’s beautiful shoreline. With so many wineries to choose from there’s not enough time to discover them all. You can take a shuttle to a few different wineries including the Benny Vino Urban Winery, the Harpersfield Vineyard and Winery, and Laurello Vineyards. There is also a great deal of shopping to explore including gift shops and boutiques!
Driftwood Point is the perfect dinner spot located right along the shore of Lake Erie. With burgers, flatbreads, and seafood, you won’t leave here feeling hungry! Another great place to check out is the Triangle Lounge. Enjoy all your favorites at each of these great spots!
The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake is where you’ll want to stay. Located along the south shore of Lake Erie, you’ll have a relaxing stay and incredible views. Another spot is the Lakehouse Inn B&B Cottages. There is a winery and restaurant on this beautiful property sure to make your stay the best!
Hudson
Embark on a picturesque journey through the charm of Hudson, Ohio, one of the most beautiful towns in the state. Nestled amid lush landscapes and historic charm, Hudson offers a delightful escape for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and small-town allure. Begin your exploration by strolling through the quaint streets adorned with historic architecture and boutique shops.
For a taste of adventure, consider a visit to the Tinker’s Creek Gorge, where nature trails wind through scenic woodlands. Hudson is also home to a thriving arts scene, with galleries and cultural events that add a vibrant touch to the town’s ambiance. Delight your palate by indulging in the local culinary scene, featuring charming cafes and fine dining establishments.
The Inn at Brandywine Falls or the historic Hudson House Bed & Breakfast are perfect accommodations, providing a cozy retreat after a day of exploration. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of Hudson, Ohio, and create lasting memories in this enchanting town.
Marblehead
Home to the oldest operating Lighthouse on the Great Lakes, Marblehead is one of Ohio’s gems. There are numerous beaches to go to, scenic places to bike and hike, and more attractions to explore. You won’t want to miss out on this charming Ohio town!
Right on Lake Erie is the Marblehead Lighthouse, one of Marblehead’s most famous attractions. You can walk the grounds and climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the water. After your climb, head to the gift shop and buy something to remember your trip by! East Harbor State Park is another must-see, stretched on a peninsula with an abundance of wildlife to see. Once you’re done exploring the park, you can set up an area on the beach to relax and tan!
Check out the Hidden Beach Bar right on the water to watch the sunset while enjoying delicious food. Order a Bikini Martini and a Lobster Roll for the perfect summertime dinner by the water. You can also hit Red’s Summerhouse Restaurant and Bar for specialty sandwiches and cocktails.
The Victorian Inn B&B is the perfect place to book for a weekend getaway. This family-owned B&B will make you feel right at home in Marblehead. Another great option if you’re traveling with a group of people is the South Beach Resort and Cottages. With a private beach and playground, this is the ideal family spot to stay!
Marietta
As the oldest city in Ohio, the charming Marietta has loads to explore. Known as the “Riverboat Town”, Marietta is the perfect spot to plan fun activities or even wind down from a hectic week. You can discover the rich history of Marietta anywhere in town while having an exciting new experience!
Start your journey off by exploring the Henry Fearing House, built in 1847 for Henry Fearing and later home to Civil War General Benjamin D. Fearing. This beautiful home will immerse you into the rich history Marietta has to offer. Head to Wayne National Forest to explore the nature of Marietta either by hiking, biking, or horse! You can also take a 90-minute trolley tour of Marietta to learn how the town came to be.
The Gunroom Restaurant and Riverview Lounge at the Lafayette Hotel overlooks the Ohio River and offers a unique dining experience. Head to his restaurant for a delicious breakfast that will satisfy your hunger. Another great spot is the Marietta Brewing Company, where you can enjoy hand crafted beer and a burger.
The Lafayette Hotel, dating back to 1788, is a beautiful hotel that will make you feel like you traveled back in time to the colonial age. The Parkview House is an Airbnb located only a few steps from the amazing restaurants and shopping area.
Mecca
This hidden gem in Ohio is one you won’t want to miss! Known for its eye-catching lakes, Mecca is a small township with lots to offer. The perfect trip for a summer getaway, you can go camping or boating out on Mosquito Creek Lake.
If you like to be on the water, Mecca’s boats launch within easy access to the lake. Head to the Mosquito Lake Marina for boating and kayak rentals. There are also baseball and soccer fields, making this the perfect town for a family getaway.
The Yellow Dog Saloon and Grille is a great option for dining. It has all of the classic American favorites you can think of, breakfast, lunch and dinner. Mecca Cones and Coneys is the perfect spot if you have a sweet tooth. From their delicious ice cream and shakes to nachos and hot dogs, this place has it all!
Robinson’s Lakeside Campground is the perfect spot to camp on a cool summer night. It’s located on the East Side of Mosquito Lake, giving you a beautiful view while barbecuing or roasting marshmallows! Jan’s Campground is another spot to camp out and offers the only cabins on the lake.
Oberlin
Home to the beautiful Oberlin College, the small town of Oberlin is sure to leave you wanting more. With a rich history to learn about and numerous places to explore, Oberlin is guaranteed to leave you with an amazing experience.
The Allen Memorial Art Museum at Oberlin College contains 6,000 years of history with ancient works and sculptures. It’s free to visit and explore the span of collections from the ancient times. Oberlin also offers many kinds of history walks, ranging from the Civil War to women’s history. Be sure to check them out and learn a great deal about this small town.
The 1833 Restaurant at the Hotel at Oberlin is a great dining option to explore. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, 1833 has a variety of food options that will delight you. The Bulldog Pub and Grille is a more casual dining choice, offering delicious, handcrafted burgers and sandwiches.
The 1830 Hallauer House Bed & Breakfast will make you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time! You can find Civil War artifacts and army uniforms in your room and hear stories at the delicious breakfast they serve. The Hotel at Oberlin is located on the Oberlin College campus is downtown Oberlin. With stunning rooms and a restaurant at the hotel, this will offer a more modern stay.