Ohio Just Wouldn't Be The Same Without These 7 Charming Small Towns
By Sarah McCosham|Published November 02, 2022
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.
I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
Here at Only In Ohio, we have big love for our small towns. While the Three C’s are certainly a quintessential part of the Buckeye State, the hundreds of small locales scattered across Ohio truly are its heart and soul. Today we’re looking at seven small towns in Ohio that, if they didn’t exist, the state simply wouldn’t be the same. These are darling towns worthy of day trips and weekend adventures, and we hope you make a point to visit them all!
So much more than a college town, Bowling Green is a bit of a hidden gem to Ohioans that aren't familiar with the area just south of Toledo. Step back in time at Snook's Dream Cars for a few hours and check out the Wood County Museum for some local history. You'll also find multiple nature preserves, historic farms, and one of the most charming downtowns in Ohio in beautiful Bowling Green.
With its distinctly New England influence, Granville is an Ohio gem that's teeming with history. Best known as the home of Denison University, Granville is full of historic sites and points of interest sure to keep you engaged and entertained throughout your visit! And when it comes to dining, be sure and stop by The Granville Inn for a Fedora Salad and house-made Granville Burger.
Just outside Cleveland, Hudson is a picture-perfect town that's full of historic architecture, tree-lined sidewalks, and a thriving downtown district boasting shops, restaurants, and local businesses. Natural spaces abound in and around town; Hudson Park, Cascade Park, Wood Hollow Metro Park, and Boston Mills Park are just a few enchanting outdoor destinations in this community that features some 1,000 acres of parkland!
Loveland is a darling town about 15 miles north of Cincinnati that has it all: a bustling downtown, gorgeous outdoor spaces (including a front-row seat to the Little Miami River *and* Loveland Bike Trail), and whimsical touches like quaint farms and even a castle! Add it all up, and it's no wonder why Loveland is known as the "Sweetheart of Ohio."
In Northeast Ohio, Oberlin is a delightful college town that's peak "small town" vibes. This progressive little town has a community-minded ethos, a rich history, and a lively arts and cultural scene. The town is set up like a grid, with a central park surrounded by tree-lined neighborhoods, stately college buildings, and historic monuments. What's more, there's pretty much always something going on in bustling Oberlin, a place that warmly welcomes everyone.
Tucked away in the heart of Ohio Amish Country, Sugarcreek is an impossibly charming locale that's a taste of the Old World. Known as the "The Little Switzerland of Ohio," you'll find the German and Swiss heritage on proud display throughout town. Don't forget to stop by Broad Run Cheese for some of their award-winning Swiss!
It would be downright criminal to not include Yellow Springs in a roundup of charming Ohio towns. Ohio's most colorful town is also one of its most charming. In addition to great shopping and dining, you can explore two nature preserves, a state park, a beloved dairy farm, and so much more. If you enjoy creating or observing art, Yellow Springs is a whimsical little town and a picture-perfect escape that will welcome you with open arms.
When coming up with a list of the most charming small towns in Ohio, everyone has an opinion — and these opinions are both valid and valued! So if your favorite small town in Ohio doesn’t make this list, rest assured there will be others, and we’re always up for reader nominations, too!
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