Ohio’s small town charm is underrated.
Do you ever wish life could slow down sometimes? Do you ever wish you could stop and enjoy the simple things in life more often? If so, you might want to consider moving to one of Ohio’s smaller towns. The following 12 towns in the Buckeye State can get a little sleepy at times throughout the year, but the slow pace just adds to the charm. See how many of these small towns you’ve visited before:
1. Bucyrus
The small city of Bucyrus is the epitome of small town charm in Ohio. With a population of around 12,000, it's just the right size for those looking for a small town vibe with plenty of restaurants, stores and other attractions. Whenever the famous Bucyrus Bratwurst Festival isn't happening, this small town's pace is slow and steady.
2. Dennison
Mostly known for its Dennison Railroad Depot Museum, this lovely village of approximately 2,655 residents in Tuscarawas County is home to rich history, charm and friendly people.
3. 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.
4. Kingston
With a population of just 1,032 and a total area of 0.37 square miles, the people of this sleepy Ross County village are likely on a first-name basis.
5. 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. Although the town comes alive in the summer months, it's a quiet escape during the fall and winter months.
6. Greenville
Greenville is home to the historic Fort Greene Ville and Bear's Mill. It is also home to the Garst Museum, which features the largest known collections of memorabilia of Annie Oakley and Lowell Thomas. (Both Oakley and Thomas were born close to what is now Greenville.) It's a slow-paced, charming town that's worth a day trip.
7. Troy
One of the larger towns on our list, the small city of Troy is just the right pace for those who want something slower than the city, but more developed than a rural village. While you're here, be sure to stop by K's Hamburger Shop for lunch and Treasure Island Park. (Pictured is the Eldean Covered Bridge.)
8. Milan
Milan is the proud home of the birthplace of the famous American inventor Thomas A. Edison (pictured.) Milan is a village in both Erie and Huron counties, with a population of approximately 1,351. Life here is slow-paced and the locals are friendly.
9. Grand Rapids
Starley Shelton/Flickr
This charming village is located along the southern bank of the Maumee River, just southwest of Toledo. This restored canal town is truly one of a kind, with a population of about 986. (You can even ride on a canal boat pulled by mules down the restored Miami & Erie Canal.)
10. Loudonville
Home to the breathtakingly beautiful Mohican State Park, Loudonville is a true gem for nature lovers. The Mohican River flows right through the town and park. Popular activities here include smallmouth bass fishing, canoeing and hiking. For an unforgettable visit, rent a nearby cabin for a quiet, overnight getaway.
11. Piketon
Along the Scioto River you'll find this quiet Pike County village, with a population of about 2,158. Chances are, everyone here knows your name, where you went to school and who your family is.
12. Granville
Known for its historic architecture and New England character, this Licking County village is home to the historic Avery Downer House, The Buxton Inn, The Granville Inn and Denison University. Additionally, it is the location of the prehistoric Alligator Effigy Mound, built by people of the Fort Ancient culture.
Did we feature your hometown? What other small towns would you add to this list? Let us know!
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