Discover 24 Incredible Hidden Gems in Ohio

Many of the Midwestern states are often overlooked when individuals plan their travels across the United States, with individuals rarely considering destinations such as Ohio. However, that would be a regrettable oversight, as Ohio presents a diverse array of offerings for travelers from various backgrounds. With vibrant urban centers such as Cincinnati and Cleveland, scenic lakefronts along Lake Erie, and the majestic peaks of the Appalachians, the state caters to both urban enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Consider the Buckeye State on your next adventure and explore our curated list of remarkable hidden gems in Ohio.

1. The Chateau Laroche (Loveland)

The Chateau Laroche, situated along the banks of the Little Miami River just north of Loveland, is often referred to as “Loveland Castle.” Its creator, Harry Andrews, a medieval enthusiast and former Boy Scout Troop Leader, was inspired by historic European castles, which influenced its architectural design, integrating Old World elegance into the New World. Construction commenced in 1929, utilizing stones sourced from the river. Although it took several years to realize Chateau Laroche, (translated to “Rock Castle” in French, named after the hospital where he was stationed during WWI), Andrews passed away before its completion. The project was entrusted to the Knights of the Golden Trail Boy Scout Troop, who continue to safeguard it to this day. This legacy serves as a cherished gift for future generations.

Chateau Laroche has seen significant renovations since Andrews’ death and is now largely complete. Guests are welcome to explore this remarkable and environmentally conscious castle along the picturesque riverbank. Wandering through the interiors and gardens allows a delightful experience reminiscent of a European castle. The Boy Scouts’ commitment to maintaining a minimal carbon footprint means your visit supports a noble cause. Just be sure to depart before dusk, as local lore suggests that the castle is inhabited by spirits, as reported by some of the castle’s own volunteer knights, lending an intriguing aura to this medieval edifice.

2. American Sign Museum (Cincinnati)

The American Sign Museum, located in Cincinnati, has welcomed visitors since 2005. Have you ever gazed at large advertising signs and pondered their creation? This establishment will provide insights and enhance your appreciation for signage! It features a captivating array of preserved, archived, and displayed signs, alongside exhibits highlighting the equipment utilized in their production.

Founded by Tod Swormstedt, whose family has published a signage industry trade journal since 1906, the museum emerged from Tod’s desire to preserve the history of signage, inspired by his work with the journal. The museum showcases over 200 signs and objects, with an additional 3,800 items cataloged. The collections chronologically illustrate the evolution of signs and advertising from the late nineteenth century through the 1970s, including Las Vegas showcards and an arch from a McDonald’s outlet. It is an educational and enjoyable environment where one can discover an integral aspect of our daily lives: the signs and advertisements we often overlook without understanding the strategic approaches behind them.

3. Mike’s Place (Kent)

Mike’s Place is situated in Kent and stands out as one of the more unconventional restaurants you may encounter. This eclectic mix encompasses a restaurant, social hub, tourist attraction, and a collection of unique elements that culminate in a wildly inventive dining space. Positioned prominently, you cannot miss the giant Star Wars X-Wing replica at the entrance, serving as just the beginning of the extraordinary ambiance!

Upon entering, you’ll discover that Mike’s Place is creatively assembled from diverse components, resembling a castle, featuring buses and a boat repurposed as seating areas. The restaurant resembles a maze, with signs guiding patrons towards themed seating areas and restroom facilities. Visit this unique establishment to navigate through its captivating configurations. The menus are equally impressive, being large and adorned with whimsical anecdotes provided by the staff. Savor a beverage while you take your time deliberating over the extensive menu options!

4. The Wilds

The Wilds, located in Cumberland, stands as one of the few safari experiences available in the United States. This nonprofit safari park and conservation center supports conservation research and educational programs while offering visitors an adventurous and realistic engagement with wildlife. Spanning over 9,150 acres, it is home to exotic and endangered species, along with hiking and mountain biking trails.

Embark on a safari adventure and appreciate that the land on which The Wilds operates was reclaimed from strip mining and is now dedicated to wildlife conservation. The immersive experience includes zip line tours, horseback riding, fishing, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities! Overnight accommodations are available at Nomad Ridge, where guests can enjoy rooms with views of rhinoceroses. This remarkable experience is not to be missed when you find yourself in Ohio.

5. Ravenwood Castle (New Plymouth)

For many, childhood fantasies often include visions of residing in a grand castle, reminiscent of the opulence associated with historical monarchs. Ravenwood Castle serves as a real-life replication of these castles, allowing that dream to become a reality, even if only for a brief period. Established as a hotel in 1997, Ravenwood was designed with inspiration drawn from English and Welsh castle architecture.

Guests have the opportunity to select from a variety of historically inspired accommodations within this medieval complex: stay in luxurious castle rooms, a residence in the medieval village, or a rustic creekside cabin with a gypsy theme. The ambiance evokes a sense of stepping back in time, complete with elements such as dungeons and King Arthur-inspired features. It represents an ideal fusion of old and new, boasting stone walls and antique furnishings, complemented by whirlpool hot tubs. What more could one desire?

6. Hartman Rock Garden (Springfield)

Located in Springfield, Hartman Rock Garden was originally established in 1932 by Ben Hartman, an individual who, during the Great Depression, sought to channel his energies creatively. His initial endeavor was to construct a concrete fish pond, which inspired him to further expand his project by scavenging rocks from construction sites to create miniature stone houses, cathedrals, and parapets.

Visitors are encouraged to admire Hartman’s dedication and vision upon visiting this remarkable Rock Garden. Notable replicas include Independence Hall, the White House, and Mount Vernon, alongside a significant castle featuring a drawbridge and moat. The family’s commitment to maintaining the gardens allowed public access until 2007 when the last of Hartman’s descendants passed; thereafter, the Kohler Foundation assumed stewardship of the property. Explore this hidden gem to appreciate Hartman’s artistry and resourcefulness in utilizing discarded materials to create this intriguing rock garden.

7. Beer Barrel Saloon (Put-In-Bay)

Beer Barrel Saloon is a frequented local establishment on Put-In-Bay, located on South Bass Island. Renowned for its substantial seating capacity and noted as the “world’s longest bar,” this venue emerged from the remnants of a cherished Colonial building that was destroyed by fire in 1988. Patrons are invited to enjoy the seemingly endless bar while savoring a drink or two.

While particularly lively on weekends, there is usually ample space available along the 405-foot bar. Guests can sample from 56 beers on tap while enjoying some of the island’s finest entertainment. Opt for outdoor seating on the patio to take in superb lake views. The saloon also offers delectable burgers, fries, and pizzas to complement your beer tasting experience.

8. Healing Chapel (Coolville)

Coolville is home to Ohio’s smallest church, the Healing Chapel. Measuring only 10 by 14 feet, it accommodates a maximum of eight individuals in its four pews. Likely the smallest church in the state, it remains open 24 hours a day for anyone seeking a space for reflection, as intended by its founder, Lloyd Middleton. Since his passing in 2006, his wife has taken on the mantle of upkeep.

This sanctuary welcomes individuals of all faiths, providing a corner accessible at all hours to those in need. The interior features a kitschy decor, and the guest book entries often elicit amusement. Spend time enjoying the gardens during the day and find solace for quiet contemplation or meditation as needed.

9. Lustron Houses (Whitehall)

Whitehall, Ohio was once home to the Lustron Houses, which were envisioned as a futuristic solution to the post-WWII housing crisis for returning service members. Manufactured in nearby Columbus, these homes were distributed nationally due to their sturdy materials and design intended for easy assembly and reassembly elsewhere in the country. Although this concept did not achieve widespread success, Whitehall gained notable recognition during its production period.

Recognizing the historical importance of this innovative housing solution during a transformative era in U.S. history, the Whitehall Historical Society chose to disassemble one of the remaining homes and relocate it to the local park. Visit to take a tour of this significant prefabricated home and explore an often-overlooked chapter of post-WWII American history.

10. Piatt Castles

Nestled within the serene countryside of Logan County, Piatt Castles has a history spanning over a century, eagerly awaiting your visit. The estate was established by Benjamin and Elizabeth Piatt, who relocated here from Cincinnati with their family, demonstrating a profound respect for the natural beauty and the valley that surrounds Piatt Castles. Their commitment to the land echoed the values held by the original inhabitants of Ohio, and they chose to make this relocation permanent. Designed after castles, the two Piatt residences served as homes for two of their children, who remained at the family estate and are now accessible to the public as a museum.

Operating as a private family museum, Piatt Castles endeavors to interpret and preserve over 200 years of Ohio’s history and heritage. Guests may embark on a self-guided tour of these nineteenth-century structures, appreciating the architectural significance and cultural history of the locale. The picturesque Ohio countryside perfectly enhances the charm of this museum, rendering it a true gem of the state.

11. Glacial Grooves (Kelleys Island)

On the northern side of Kelleys Island, you will find visible glacial grooves, crafted into the rock over 18,000 years ago by the immense ice sheet that covered the region of North America. These grooves are recognized as some of the most easily accessible and expansive glacial formations worldwide, spanning a remarkable trough measuring 400 feet long and 35 feet wide. It serves as an ideal destination for geologists and enthusiasts of evolutionary theory.

Although part of the area remains fenced off to protect this National Natural Landmark, a designated walkway and stairs permit visitors to gain a closer view of the stunning rock formations. Numerous marine fossils, aged hundreds of millions of years, can be found within the structure. Consider taking a ferry to the island and renting a golf cart for convenient exploration, allowing you to fully appreciate all the natural beauty that surrounds you! It may be challenging to envision this landscape once covered in ice when you witness its vibrant greenery today.

12. Topiary Park (Columbus)

Topiary Park, situated in Columbus, stands out as a significant historic site. The park has a long-established relationship with the Ohio School for the Deaf, founded by James and Elaine Mason, who envisioned creating a garden that offers a visual experience devoid of sound. Allocate some time to explore this garden filled with living sculptures, featuring plants sculpted to mimic Georges Seurat’s famous painting, “A Sunday Afternoon on the Isle of La Grande Jatte.”

This park uniquely serves as the only landscaped plant interpretation of a painting that exists today, comprising 50 human figures, 8 boats, and animals, all meticulously shaped from plants and flowers encircling a real pond and trees. Free admission is offered year-round from dawn to dusk for those interested in appreciating this homage to a masterpiece that captures its essence through nature. It’s a delightful visual treat.

13. The Mohicans (Glenmont)

If you are a nature enthusiast who appreciates the conveniences of modern living, you may often find it challenging to travel without the comforts of a hot shower and coffee maker. The Mohicans Treehouses, located near Loudonville, offer an ideal solution—glamping! This unique experience allows you to enjoy all the comforts of home while being nestled in the embrace of nature. There are three eco-friendly treehouses constructed from reused and repurposed materials, allowing travelers to feel good about their environmental impact.

Indulge in modern luxuries including heating, hot water, a coffee maker, and a mini bar! Savor the serene evenings far removed from urban noise, and revel in the panoramic views of the Mohican Valley. This destination represents a perfect opportunity to disconnect while maintaining comfort.

14. Ghost Lore in Peninsula, Ohio

Previously known as the Boston Mills region, this area has recently garnered attention due to its folklore and surrounding rumors. Established as a town in 1806, it was eventually abandoned when President Gerald Ford designated the land as a park and initiated the acquisition of homes through eminent domain. Prolonged government delays after the acquisition have led to the town remaining deserted since that time.

The sudden abandonment generated a wealth of ghost tales, conspiracy theories concerning chemical spills, and narratives suggesting that satanic cults were involved in the construction of the local Presbyterian church. Legends also speak of a gigantic mutant serpent lurking in the town, along with a bus said to be haunted by the spirits of purportedly murdered townspeople. While these theories remain unverified, exploring the eerie and fascinating ambience of this abandoned town offers an intriguing way to pass an afternoon. Just be mindful of letting your imagination run wild as you navigate the deserted streets.

15. Hocking Hills State Park

Situated in Logan off State Route 664, Hocking Hills State Park is an enchanting natural haven well worth visiting at any time of year. It is perfect for hikers, cyclists, campers, and casual day visitors alike. Nestled amidst the sandstone hills of Southeastern Ohio, it contains some of the most stunning natural attractions found within the state! Pay a visit to this scenic escape to marvel at the rugged cliffs and captivating gorges.

The park offers diverse opportunities for exploration; you may hike, cycle, or bring binoculars if you are an avid birdwatcher. Explore any of the six distinct hiking areas, and opt to camp or stay in the cabins for a more immersive experience. Discover waterfalls, deep caves, and lush green forests. Be sure to carry your camera, as you will want to capture memories of this remarkable destination.

16. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad operates excursion trips through the picturesque region of Peninsula in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This railroad began its operations in 1880, facilitating transport for both passengers and coal across the valley. Following a downturn, the railroad was revitalized in 1972 due to a renewed interest in its scenic excursion potential.

Now, travelers can partake in a variety of excursions through the enchanting Ohio countryside. The railroad operates primarily on weekends, except during June through August and October, when it runs from Wednesdays to Sundays. Certain trains include Dining Cars and Sleeping Lounges for longer journeys, allowing visitors to relive the nostalgia of traveling by rail as it was experienced in years past.

17. Crystal Cave, Put-In-Bay

Located in Put-In-Bay on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, Crystal Cave is a limestone cave first uncovered by Gustav Heineman, an immigrant who settled in Ohio and opened a winery. The discovery occurred in 1897 when he was digging a well beneath his winery. Initially, he extracted celestine from the cave, used in the manufacture of fireworks, before realizing that opening the cave to visitors would provide greater benefit.

This remarkable cave features impressive celestine tabular crystals, some reaching up to three feet in height, lining the limestone walls, which extend over 30 feet into the ground! The influx of visitors helped sustain the Heineman winery during Prohibition due to the revenue generated. Following your exploration of the cave, be sure to visit the Heineman Winery to enjoy a glass of wine and complete your experience!

18. The Cincinnati Subway

The Cincinnati Subway consists of an incomplete network of tunnels and stations that were intended to form a rapid transit system that ultimately never came to fruition. Initially conceived as an upgrade for streetcars, the project was halted during the economic crisis of the Great Depression and has since become the largest abandoned subway system in the United States.

All four original stations remain intact, accompanied by extensive winding tunnels. It is noteworthy that while the city previously offered guided tours of this neglected network, it is no longer open to the public, and most residents are unaware that such a system exists beneath the surface. Most entrances are gated off, so caution is advised should you decide to explore. Only urban explorers and municipal workers typically traverse these hidden depths, though some street art can be found along the way.

19. Oak Openings

Oak Openings Preserve Metropark, situated between Whitehouse and Swanton, is the largest park within the Toledo Area Metroparks. Recognized by the Nature Conservancy as one of the “Last Great Places on Earth,” it is home to 180 rare plant and animal species. Visitors are invited to explore this expansive region, rich with opportunities for botanical and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

Be prepared for an adventure; more than fifty miles of trails traverse the preserve, along with sandy dunes. Stop by the Beuhner Center, an interactive nature center offering valuable insights into the local ecosystem. You will appreciate the majestic oak trees that tower overhead as you wander through this enchanting woodland.

20. Haserot Angel in Cleveland

While many individuals tend to avoid lingering in cemeteries due to potential discomfort, Lakeview Cemetery in Cleveland is noteworthy for its numerous famous graves, including those of presidents and business icons. Most prominent is the captivating statue known as Haserot’s Angel, which merits a visit for those seeking something different.

This angel, named after the grave it marks, watches over Francis Haserot. Crafted from bronze, it is life-sized and holds an extinguished torch upside down, symbolically indicating the extinguishing of life. Interestingly, the angel appears to weep black tears, as the bronze has aged to display this peculiar effect. You can find it in section 9, lot 14. Although it may evoke an eerie feeling, its unsettling beauty adds a captivating element to your visit.

21. Nelson Kennedy Ledge State Park

Nelson Kennedy Ledges State Park, located in Nelson Township within Portage County, was established in 1949 by the state of Ohio to preserve this region, which had long been a popular local getaway. For avid hikers, this destination is particularly appealing, offering a diverse range of hiking trails that vary from moderately easy to extremely challenging.

The trails have been color-coded to indicate their level of difficulty, with yellow representing the easiest routes and red indicating the most strenuous. Meander through the lush, leafy canopy filled with the melodies of songbirds as you traverse the beech-maple forest. Delight in the close-up views of the sandstone rock formations. On more challenging trails, climbing skills may be required; thus, you will achieve a rewarding workout in the best gym imaginable—nature itself.

22. Mound City at Hopewell Culture National Historic Park

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park preserves the earthworks and burial mounds that date back to the Hopewell culture, who inhabited the area from 200 BC to 500 AD. Six significant sites from this culture are encompassed within this national historic park. Visiting these ancient mounds and archaeological sites provides an opportunity to learn more about this sophisticated Native American civilization.

The mound sites exhibit earthworks in various shapes, including circles, squares, and many geometric formations. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship behind their construction; the Hopewell culture demonstrated an advanced understanding of earth mixing to create resilient structures. Shrouded in vibrant green grass, these mounds offer valuable historical insights while captivating the eye. Additionally, the visitor center and museum feature artifacts uncovered during excavations and extensive information about the Hopewell culture, making it a worthwhile destination for those interested in ancient history.

23. Temple of Tolerance

This intricate maze of rocks and art is concealed in Jim Bowsher’s backyard in Wapakoneta, where he dedicated 18 years to its construction. The structure features a Temple and several satellite shrines fashioned from salvaged rocks transported by Jim himself. This space aims to provide a retreat for individuals of all backgrounds, incorporating stones with rich histories, including one that outlaw John Dillinger famously jumped over and another that once marked the headquarters of the KKK in Wapakoneta. The fascinating stories behind these stones add depth to the experience.

Visitors can enjoy tours conducted by Jim, who shares insights about his philosophies regarding karma and tolerance, which have inspired this garden. His pride and joy, the Temple of Tolerance, is maintained for public admiration and open to visitors at all times. Consider spending an afternoon engaging in conversation with this exceptional individual while appreciating the vision and creativity that contributed to the construction of this unique rock temple and garden.

24. Dysart Woods

Dysart Woods encompasses a 50-acre old-growth oak forest in Belmont County and represents the largest remaining segment of the original forest in Southeastern Ohio. Renowned for its picturesque hilly landscape, this area distinguishes itself from the glaciated flat regions of the state. Pay a visit to this stunning mixed deciduous forest, where ancient trees line the verdant ravines and slopes, having endured over time to thrive in their natural habitat.

Dysart Woods offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore undisturbed forests featuring mixed old oaks. The woods are preserved to maintain this unique environment. As you follow the trails, take a moment to admire, but not disturb, the surrounding natural beauty. You may encounter towering oak trees that reach over 4 feet in diameter and soar up to 140 feet high. This serene landscape is truly a majestic treasure not to be overlooked.