9 Charming Towns In Ohio That Are Just As Beautiful In The Winter

Small town Ohio is beautiful year-round. From cozy restaurants to historic inns, there's plenty to explore in some of Ohio's most charming small towns—even in the dead of winter. If you find yourself experiencing a little bit of cabin fever during the long and dreary season, consider taking a weekend road trip to a charming small town for a change of scenery. You'll get to try some new restaurants, explore shops you've never seen and likely fall in love with an unexpected little corner of Ohio. The following are some of our favorite cute towns in Ohio that are just as beautiful in the winter.

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1. Roscoe Village

Roscoe Village in Coshocton, Ohio is a charming canal town Ohio history buffs will absolutely love. Complete with horse-drawn canal boat rides, living history tours and old-fashioned shops, this is one town everyone in Ohio needs to explore at least once. Tours can be scheduled year-round and the snow-covered town is unbelievably charming in the winter months.

2. Medina

Although you might only know it as home to the year-round Christmas museum Castle Noel, this lovely Victorian-era town has much to explore. From beautiful places to stay and eat to local museums and shops, there's plenty to do and see in Medina, Ohio. (We recommend trying Courthouse Pizzeria, which is housed in the town's oldest building.)

3. Zoar

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. 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. Even after its month-long Christmas in Zoar event, the town is warm and inviting in the dead of winter.

4. Perrysburg

Along the banks of the Maumee River is Perrysburg, home to Fort Meigs, the largest wooden wall fortification in North America. At Fort Meigs State Memorial, visitors can observe a reconstruction of the original 1813 fort of Ohio's War of 1812 Battlefield in Perrysburg. It's perfect for the Ohio history buff looking for a little adventure and charm.

5. Germantown

This Montgomery County town is home to about 5,500 residents. With strong German roots, it's a charming town that was founded in 1804 by German-speaking settlers from Pennsylvania. Although it covers a little more than four square miles, there's a lot of history to observe in Germantown.

6. Granville

A lovely little New England style town, it's the perfect place to enjoy a hot meal, cozy shops and so much more. We recommend staying at the historic Buxton Inn, which dates back to 1812 and features exceptional wining and dining.

7. Steubenville

With more than 20 downtown murals, this charming Ohio River town was named after the historic Fort Steuben from 1786. While you're in town, you'll want to take time to observe the murals and explore the fort site. (And if you're here during the holidays, be sure to check out the Steubenville Nutcracker Village in Fort Steuben Park, which features the largest display of life size nutcrackers in the U.S.)

8. Lebanon

When you’re longing for a weekend away and some relaxation, the town of Lebanon is the perfect escape. It’s rich in history, charm, antiques, exceptional food and so much more. Even if you’re not an Ohio history buff, you’ll fall in love with the setting and atmosphere of this beautiful town. While you're here, we recommend staying at The Golden Lamb, where you'll find excellent food, rich history and so much more.

9. Marietta

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 Rivers. It's also known for its Victorian-style houses, European ambience, brick streets and sternwheelers. While you're visiting, be sure to take a trolley tour of the town and check out Lafayette Hotel.

Have you ever visited any of these towns during the winter season? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!

For more winter fun in Ohio, check out our previous article: Kick Off The New Year With A Beautiful Winter Hike At These 8 Ohio State Parks.