You'll Fall In Love With These 12 Charming Waterfront Towns In Ohio
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April Dray
Author
The only thing that can make a charming small town even more charming is a waterfront view. The following 12 towns are what we consider to be some of the most beautiful small towns (and cities) in Ohio that are situated along rivers, lakes and other waterfronts. See if we featured your hometown or favorite waterfront town in Ohio:
The historic riverboat town of Marietta is known as the first permanent settlement of the Northwest Territory. The town borders West Virginia and is nestled along the banks of both the Muskingum and Ohio River. It's also known for its Victorian-style houses, European ambience, brick streets and sternwheelers.
Settled in 1790, The French City sits along the Ohio River in Southeast Ohio. The centrally located city park (pictured) features beautiful views of the river and serves as the heart of the town. State Route 7, the longest state route in Ohio, runs through downtown Gallipolis and right along the river.
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The quaint fishing town of Port Clinton has a unique charm all its own year-round. 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.
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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.
With a name like Loveland, how could it not be beautiful? Home to the historic Loveland Castle, this lovely little town covers just five square miles in the greater Cincinnati area. Loveland also straddles the Little Miami River (pictured,) and is known for its beautiful bike path (also pictured,) the Little Miami Scenic River Bike Trail.
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.
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Part of the Akron Metropolitan Statistical Area, this charming village sits in the middle of the stunningly beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The Cuyahoga River runs through the town and the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail runs close to downtown, making Peninsula a popular stop for many bikers and hikers, as it is one of the only towns between Akron and Cleveland.
"Where southern hospitality begins," this small city lies east of the mouth of the Scioto River at the Ohio River. During your visit here, be sure to eat at The Scioto Ribber and check out the Southern Ohio Museum and historic murals.
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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.
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. While you're here, we recommend lunch at La Roe's Restaurant and a ride on a canal boat pulled by mules down the restored Miami & Erie Canal.
The Great Miami River flows through the small city of Troy. Pictured is the historic Eldean Covered Bridge. Be sure to check out The Great Miami River Recreational Trail and Fulton Farms here.
Also along the banks of the Maumee River is Perrysburg, home to Fort Meigs, the largest wooden wall fortification in North America. This town features rich history, and kayaking at Meigs on the River is a popular activity here.
Have you ever been to any of these waterfront towns in Ohio? What (and where) is your favorite waterfront town in Ohio? Share your thoughts and experiences with us!
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