Here in Ohio, small town charm is beautiful.
From little-known history to waterfront views, our small towns can make the best getaways. Life is simple and slow-paced—and you can stop and enjoy your surroundings for awhile. The following are 12 lazy day towns in Ohio that are perfect for your next day trip or weekend getaway.
1. Huron
Here in Ohio, the small town of Huron is a gorgeous lakeside town that’s somewhat of a hidden gem to Ohioans not from the area. If you find yourself in northern Ohio, you need to take a day and visit this quaint Lake Erie town. Be sure to stop by the Huron Boat Basin Marina and Amphitheater, Nickel Plate Beach and Huron Lake Front Park while you're here.
2. Clifton
Clifton is a gorgeous small town. It's home to the historic site of Clifton Mill (pictured), which features a vintage mill, a covered bridge, a 1940s-era gas station and a quaint American restaurant. (And don't miss the Legendary Lights of Clifton Mill during the holidays!)
3. Granville
One of the most charming, overlooked towns in Ohio is Granville. It’s a quaint college town with New England charm, it’s full of history and there’s plenty to do and see. The town prides itself in its history and heritage. You'll find several historical markers and museums throughout town.
4. Zoar
The small town of Zoar, Ohio is a historic German village most people in the state (surprisingly) don’t know about. Beautifully preserved and full of fun places to explore, you’ll fall in love with this little-known town. The village of Zoar has more than 50 of the original historic structures and buildings still standing today. Consequently, the town has preserved much of its old world charm.
5. Chagrin Falls
This Cuyahoga County village is the epitome of charm. The town's name is derived from the waterfalls of the Chagrin River. Chagrin Falls (pictured above) flows in the heart of the town, which was established in 1845. (Be sure to stop by The Popcorn Shop while you're here.)
6. Boston Township
Tucked away in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, you'll find this quiet Summit County township, home to just 1,664 residents. In the spring, summer and fall months, the little town comes alive with hikers and explorers passing though.
7. Marblehead
At the tip of the scenic Marblehead Peninsula the charming town of Marblehead features the iconic Marblehead Lighthouse, beautiful views of Lake Erie and Sandusky Bay and boating culture. The lighthouse is the Great Lakes' oldest continuously operating lighthouse and is open for tours during the summer.
8. Yellow Springs
Home to Antioch College and a colorful downtown, this artsy little town is a safe haven for those looking to indulge in creativity and the quirkiness of small town living. Knit graffiti is common here, and popular amenities include the twice-a-year Yellow Springs Street Fair, the Glen Helen Nature Reserve and the nearby John Bryan State Park.
9. Wapakoneta
With just under 10,000 residents, this small city in northwestern Ohio is the proud birthplace of astronaut Neil Armstrong. This quaint town is located on the Auglaize River and you'll want to visit the next time you're in the area. A few places you'll want to check out while you're here include the Armstrong Air & Space Museum and The Temple of Tolerance.
10. Geneva-on-the-Lake
This quaint Ashtabula County village is home to just 1,288 residents but it truly comes alive in the summer months when it becomes a popular resort and camping spot. Enjoy stunning views of Lake Erie from this beautiful village.
11. Oberlin
Home to the private liberal arts college, Oberlin College (the first American higher education institution to admit female and black students,) this progressive little town has a close-knit community, a rich history and a lively arts and cultural scene. In 2012, it was voted one of the state’s "Best Hometowns" by Ohio Magazine.
Port Clinton
The quaint fishing town of Port Clinton also comes alive in the summer months. As a safe harbor for Lake Erie boaters and the "Walleye Capital of the World," Port Clinton eats, sleeps and breathes fishing. No matter the time of year, you're likely to see marina after marina packed with fishing boats, people fishing from the pier and the catch of the day being sold at local restaurants and markets.
How many of these towns have you visited? Which ones would you add to this list? Let us know!
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