Visit One Of The Best Small Towns In Ohio For A Day Trip

Do you like exploring hidden gems as much as we do? If so, we think you’ll be happy to learn that Ohio is filled with lots of charming small towns that make for perfect day trips and weekend getaways. While many of our northern lakeside locales are favorite summer vacation destinations for residents, there are just as many small towns in the southern regions of the state that are equally well-suited for warm-weather fun. Loveland is one such town.

Hailed as the Sweetheart of Ohio, Loveland is a northeast suburb of Cincinnati, tucked into the corners of three counties. Not only is it situated on the Little Miami River *and* Loveland Bike Trail, but a robust downtown district and an abundance of festivals make Loveland one of the best small towns in Ohio for a day trip. If we’ve piqued your interest, read on to learn what makes Loveland, OH so special.

Snuggled in the Southwest corner of the Buckeye State, Loveland, Ohio is a place where small-town values and big-city amenities intersect in the most wonderfully scenic setting.

In addition to its lovely personality (Loveland is known as the Sweetheart of Ohio and in addition to its annual Valentine's Day festival, you can even send a Valentine featuring Loveland’s iconic postmark!), this darling locale is known for its abundance of parks and recreation. Some of the many reasons it's one of the best small towns in Ohio for a day trip.

For starters, the Loveland Bike Trail runs, quite literally, *through* town, and during the warmer seasons, you'll find just as many families on training wheels as avid cyclists on this scenic stretch through town.

Within the town, Nisbett Park is a popular place for families to convene and play. Beautiful landscaping and walking paths make it an accessible place for both wheelchairs and strollers, too. It's happening during the year, especially for the annual Independence Day Celebration!

Of course, we'd be remiss not to mention the incredible aquatic recreation available in Loveland, Ohio. Right in the town proper, you'll see kayakers, people canoeing, and serious paddlers alike. Therefore, if you're planning to be here on a warm day, make a point to add this activity to your itinerary.

The outfitter's popular Castle Adventure cruises past Loveland's very own Château Laroche and is another royally fun thing to do during your day trip.

And just a hop, skip, and jump from Downtown Loveland you'll find Lake Isabella. This 77-acre park is located just off 1-275’s Loveland/Indian Hill exit and features a 28-acre pay lake that is stocked weekly from March through October and offers fishing from the bank, dock, or rental boat (personal water vehicles, such as canoes and kayaks, are not permitted).

All of that activity during your Loveland, OH day trip is bound to work up a hearty appetite, and luckily, there are loads of options for *al fresco* dining in Loveland. Paxton's Grill is a perennial favorite that's known for big, beefy burgers, including the eponymous "Big Paxton," a 10-ounce burger topped with perfectly crispy bacon.

The Wicked Pickle is another Loveland favorite that’s *kind of a big dill*… do yourself a favor and order a platter of fried pickle chips to go with your mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich.

For the literal cherry on top of your visit to one of the best small towns in Ohio for a day trip, a visit to Loveland Dairy Whip is a must. Open March through September, definitely for one of their signature confections – you can’t go wrong with the Reese Tulip or Chocolate Mountain.

Have you taken a day trip to Loveland, Ohio before? If so, we’d ‘love’ to hear what you enjoyed most about one of the best small towns in Ohio. Let us know in the following comments section.

Since there’s so much to see and do in Loveland, OH, how about spending the weekend in this charming town? For ideas of what to do, take a look at our article about taking a getaway in Loveland, Ohio. When you’re ready to find accommodations, feel free to check out Booking.com as well.

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Best Small Towns In Ohio For A Day Trip

Marla S. | April 09, 2024

What are some popular Ohio day trips?

Here are some popular Ohio day trips:

German Village in Columbus: The next time you're looking for a one-of-a-kind experience, we suggest heading to this European-inspired destination to shop, dine on delicious German treats, and check out the unique architecture.
Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield: If you and your family are up for a spooky time, plan to visit this historic and haunting building.
The J.M. Smucker Company Store and Cafe in Orville: Learn all about some of your favorite tasty treats when you take a day trip to this sweet destination in Ohio.
Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens in Akron: This seasonal destination is a stunning spot to appreciate manicured gardens and a historic mansion that's been around since 1912.

What are some popular peaceful small towns in Ohio?

Here are some popular peaceful small towns in Ohio:

Piketon: About 2,000 residents live in this quiet town along the Scioto River.
Canfield: In addition to being a safe place to call home, residents enjoy the low cost of living.
Dennison: This historical town is known for being one of the friendliest. It also features the Railroad Depot Museum.
Perrysburg: You'll find this peaceful small town that's home to Fort Meig along the Maumee River.

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Loveland, OH, USA

The Friendly Small Town In Ohio That's Perfect For A Summer Day Trip

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