There Are More Than 50 Historic Buildings In This Special Ohio Town
Some of Ohio’s best kept secrets are hiding in small towns—and sometimes those small towns are the best kept secrets. 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. Take a look:
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.
This tiny town was founded in 1817 "by a group of 200 German Separatists seeking escape from religious persecution in their homeland," according to the village's website.
Today, approximately 177 people call this lovely town home. Gorgeous landscaping surrounds much of the historic homes, making it a delightful town to live in.
About 75 families live in the town's charming homes, built from 1817 to the present.
During your visit, you'll want to stop at the Zoar Store, which is a museum building owned by the Ohio History Connection and managed and operated by the Zoar Community Association.
Other museum buildings in the town owned by the Ohio History Connection and managed and operated by the Zoar Community Association include: The Zoar Dairy, Hotel, Wagon Shop, Blacksmith Shop, Tin Shop, Bakery, Garden and Garden House, Sewing House, Number One House, Kitchen & Dining Room, The Bimeler Museum and the Magazine. To take a virtual tour of Zoar, click here.
You'll also want to take a stroll around town and take in all the old homes, beautiful architecture and living history. Pictured below is the Bimeler Cabin.
As one of the first buildings erected in Zoar, this privately owned cabin was the town's first meeting house and is the oldest home still standing in Zoar.
With so much history and preservation, it's not uncommon to see a historic reenactment or other special events happening in Zoar.
"Christmas in Zoar" is an especially fun time to take a ride around the town.
While you're here, you'll definitely want to check out the beloved Zoar Hotel, which dates back to 1833. Free tours of the hotel are given on select dates.
The Zoar Hotel had 40 sleeping rooms and accommodated all kinds of people during its hotel years, including President William McKinley. (You can call 330-874-3011 for tour information.)
During your visit, you can stay at the Zoar School Inn Bed and Breakfast, where history, charm and an exceptional breakfast await you.
With welcoming hosts and an informative tour of the historic building, you'll truly feel like you've traveled back in time—while also enjoying all the modern comforts of home. It is located at 60 Third Street, Box 509, Zoar, OH 44697.
Have you ever been to this beautiful small town before? (For more information about the village of Zoar and upcoming events, click here.) If so, we want to know what your experience was like!
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
