These days it’s hard to keep something a secret — especially if it’s a really cool place. However, Ohio still has its fair share of hidden gems, from underrated establishments to little known destinations. If you’re itching to visit some of the best hidden gems in Ohio, there are several destinations that belong on your bucket list. Gas up the car and pack some road trip snacks, because these fantastic destinations are calling.

1) The Chateau Laroche (Loveland)
1MaryGilbert/TripAdvisor
Zina C/TripAdvisor
Also known as the Loveland Castle, this small, historic castle is open for the public to explore for a small fee. Not too far from Cincinnati, this dreamy spot on the river will take your breath away. Visit this pretty place at 12025 Shore Dr, Loveland, OH 45140.
2) American Sign Museum (Cincinnati)
5chw4r7z/Flickr
Discover America's largest collection of signs at this Cincinnati museum. The American Sign Museum is truly one of a kind, featuring surprises around every corner. Swing by at 1330 Monmouth Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45225.
3) Mike's Place (Kent)
Jim Reynolds/Flickr
In addition to its unique atmosphere and decor, this eatery features a full-size replica of a "Star War" X-Wing Fighter. Inside, there's even more to see. Swing by Mike's Place at 1700 S Water St #4447, Kent, OH 44240.
4) Ravenwood Castle (New Plymouth)
rayb77/Flickr
@LIQUIDBONEZ/Flickr
This castle serves as an overnight Medieval getaway perfect for a weekend away from modern day life. Explore the castle halls, or spend an evening in its garden-like Medieval cottages. Embrace your own fairytale at 65666 Bethel Rd, New Plymouth, OH 45654.
5) Hartman Rock Garden (Springfield)
Cindy Funk/Flickr
Observe a mixture of history, religion, and depression-era pop culture via this unique garden, built by Harry "Ben" Hartman between 1932 through 1944. This unique folk art display can be found at 1905 Russell Ave, Springfield, OH 45506.

Related Stories

Plans Are Underway For The First Buc-ee's In Ohio And We Couldn't Be More Excited

Plans Are Underway For The First Buc-ee's In Ohio And We Couldn't Be More Excited

 Get Away From It All At This Remote And Beautiful Campground In Ohio

Get Away From It All At This Remote And Beautiful Campground In Ohio

 The Whole Family Could Spend An Entire Day Having A Blast At Tappan Lakeside Resort In Ohio

The Whole Family Could Spend An Entire Day Having A Blast At Tappan Lakeside Resort In Ohio
6) Beer Barrel Saloon (Put-In-Bay)
gobucks2/Flickr
Order a drink at the world's longest bar on South Bass Island. Swing by during a live performance for added ambiance. Visit this Ohio landmark at 324 Delaware Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456.
7) Healing Chapel (Coolville)
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Visit Ohio's (and one of America's) smallest chapel in Coolville. This tiny chapel is 10 ft. by 14 ft. and holds eight seats. Now that's cozy! Find this spot on the James A. Rhodes Appalachian Hwy, Coolville, OH 45723.
8) Lustron houses (Whitehall)
Whitehall Ohio Historical Society/Facebook
Designed after World War II and made in Columbus for returning soldiers, these houses were impressively durable, yet inexpensive. Few are still in use or existence, save the Lustron houses in Whitehall. Spot one of these iconic landmarks at 400 N Hamilton Rd, Columbus, OH 43213.
9) Glacial grooves (Kelleys Island)
Snassek/Flickr
The largest accessible glacial grooves in the world can be found right in Ohio on Kelleys Island. These unusual formations are reminders that, during the last ice age, glaciers once slowly scooted debris across Ohio's landscape. Visit these geomorphic wonders at 739 Division St, Kelleys Island, OH 43438.
10) Topiary Park (Columbus)
Lorianne DiSabato/Flickr
Tucked away in downtown Columbus is a 7-acre park with some pretty impressive shrubs. These beautiful plants recreate an old Seurat painting, but they're a work of art all their own. Visit Topiary Park at 480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215.
11) The Mohicans (Glenmont)
The Mohicans
The Mohicans
In addition to the great outdoors and beautiful cabins, The Mohicans feature some mind-blowing tree houses (complete with electricity and running water) available for overnight stays. Discover adventure at 23164 Vess Rd, Glenmont, OH 44628.

Turns out, there’s more to Ohio than just the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Cedar Point. What other unique places are there in Ohio that you believe are underrated? Are there other destinations that you think rank among the best hidden gems in Ohio? Tell us in the comments below!

Craving more adventure? Start tackling some of the coolest outdoor spots in Ohio on your next road trip adventure.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

Best Hidden Gems In Ohio

Nikki Rhoades | August 16, 2020

What are the weirdest things about Ohio?

Ohio is full of weirdness and surprises. The annual salamander migration is always a surprise. So, too, are roadside attractions like Cornhenge and The Temple of Tolerance.

What are the most beautiful places in Ohio?

The most beautiful places in Ohio are not man-made, but are carved by the hands of Mother Nature. Natural places worth visiting include spots like Hocking Hills State Park and the Holden Arboretum.

What is Ohio known for?

The Buckeye State is known for many things, but its greatest draw is its people. This state is full of some of the quirkiest, yet kindest, people you'll ever meet.

Related Articles

Featured Addresses
12025 Shore Dr, Loveland, OH 45140, USA
1330 Monmouth Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45225, USA
Mike's Place, 1700 S Water St #4447, Kent, OH 44240, USA
65666 Bethel Rd, New Plymouth, OH 45654, USA
1905 Russell Ave, Springfield, OH 45506, USA
324 Delaware Ave, Put-In-Bay, OH 43456, USA
James A. Rhodes Appalachian Hwy, Coolville, OH, USA
N Hamilton Rd, Whitehall, OH 43213, USA
739 Division St, Kelleys Island, OH 43438, USA
480 E Town St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA
23164 Vess Rd, Glenmont, OH 44628, USA