12 Hidden Attractions Locals Keep To Themselves In Ohio
Ohio is arguably the state with the most hidden gems.
From countryside inns to unique parks most people don’t know about, there’s always something new to explore in Ohio—and it’s safe to say that locals don’t want too many people catching on and visiting their favorite spots. While the following 12 attractions may not technically be hidden, they’re little-known and tucked away in the most unexpected places. See how many of these attractions you knew about:
If you’ve ever longed for a Medieval experience (complete with many of the comforts of home,) you’ll definitely want to check out Ravenwood Castle. This lovely little Medieval structure is tucked away in the scenic Hocking Hills in New Plymouth. You can choose to stay in a castle room or a Medieval Village Cottage. You can even camp in a gypsy wagon or stay in a cabin in the Huntsman's Hollow out back. This unique getaway is located at located at 65666 Bethel Rd., New Plymouth, OH 45654.
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park in Hamilton, Ohio is a hidden gem you need to explore. Year-round, it’s a fun day trip destination you can spend hours exploring. Within this outdoor museum, you'll find a wide variety of sculptures standing in meadows, forests and gardens. The park also features an indoor Ancient Sculpture Museum, which displays Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Etruscan sculptures that are thousands of years old. You'll find it at at 1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH 45013.
One of the state’s most unique inns is tucked away in the small town of Bucyrus. Hide-Away Country Inn features 12 themed rooms and suites that are downright picture perfect. From an elaborate Louie XIV suite to a beautiful Out of Africa room, there’s something for everyone here. You'll find it at 1601 State Route 4, Bucyrus, OH 44820.
Most people don’t know there’s an impressive replica of an Old West town tucked away in the hills of southern Ohio. Dogwood Pass near Beaver, Ohio was built to look and feel as authentic as possible, complete with bath houses, saloons and gun fights. Step back in time into the Old West at this unique town that’s anything but ordinary. It's located at 722 Adams Rd., Beaver, OH 45613.
This unique store in Ohio Amish Country specializes in antique style appliances, retro home furnishings, non-electric kitchenware, old-time toys and a lot more items that will take you back to yesteryear. It is located at 4779 Kidron Rd., Dalton, OH 44618
Most people are surprised to find out that Ohio also has a tunnel of trees you can hike through—and it’s simply stunning. Sugarcreek MetroPark in Bellbrook, Ohio features the Osage Orange Tunnel. It’s a magical place you need to experience for yourself. Sugarcreek MetroPark is located at 4178 Conference Rd., Bellbrook, OH 45305.
If you live in Ohio and have yet to visit Malabar Farm State Park, you’re truly missing out. Nestled in the hills of Pleasant Valley in Lucas, Ohio is a picture perfect farm with an unbelievably nice restaurant. It’s beloved by locals and a hidden gem to Ohioans who don’t live in the area. It's located at 3645 Pleasant Valley Road, Lucas, OH 44843.
Did you know northeast Ohio is home to America’s largest indoor, year-round Christmas attraction? It’s true—and it’s absolutely incredible. Castle Noel is a bucket list destination every Ohioan needs to visit at least once. And the best part is, you don’t have to wait until the holidays when it’s extra crowded. You can visit anytime throughout the year. With a myriad of Christmas ornaments hanging from the ceiling and thousands of toys from yesteryear, Castle Noel is truly magical year-round. You'll find it at 260 S. Court St., Medina, OH 44256.
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One of the largest water powered grist mills still in existence, Clifton Mill is fueled by the Little Miami River. This historic site of Clifton Mill features a vintage mill, a covered bridge, a 1940s-era gas station and a quaint American restaurant. (And during the holidays, it lights up the night with thousands of Christmas lights.) Clifton Mill located at 75 Water St., Clifton, OH 45316.
Tucked away in the small town of Gibsonburg, Ohio, you’ll find White Star Quarry. It’s a little-known diving resort that Ohio explorers will fall in love with. (And if you’d rather not scuba dive, you can always check out the designated swimming area in the summer months or have a picnic by the quarry.) White Star Quarry is located at 901 S Main St., Gibsonburg, Ohio 43431.
This lovely Millersburg farm and bakery is the perfect day trip destination or stop when you're exploring Ohio's Amish Country. The heartwarming setting itself is enough to make you stop and stay while. But it's the goodies inside that make it really worth the trip. (The fry pies and the cinnamon rolls are simply irresistible.) You'll find it at 5452 State Route 557, Millersburg, Ohio 44654.
Glenwood Gardens is a discovery park that features multiple nature trails, gazebos, fountains, a fun kids' area and even a gift shop. Adults and children alike will love this little oasis from the city. Tucked away behind the Kroger shopping center on Springfield Pike, you'll find this hidden gem. It's located at 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45215.
Did you know about all of these? What other little-known attractions are there in Ohio? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
