Ohio is home to some beautiful rivers, which means it's bound to be home to some beautiful river towns. While riverside big cities are nice, it's the smaller riverside towns that will charm you---and the spring season is the prefect time to explore them. Visit their local shops and restaurants, take in the riverside views and ride along the scenic bike trails that run through many of them. The following are just 10 of our favorite river towns in Ohio.
1. 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 River. It's also known for its Victorian-style houses, European ambience, brick streets and sternwheelers.
2. Chagrin Falls
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.
3. Gallipolis
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.
4. Loveland
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.
5. Portsmouth
"Where southern hospitality beings," 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 (pictured.)
6. Loudonville
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.
7. Perrysburg
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.
8. Grand Rapids
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 (pictured above) and a ride on a canal boat pulled by mules down the restored Miami & Erie Canal.
9. Peninsula
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.
10. Troy
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.
Have you been to any of these towns before? What river town in Ohio is your favorite? Share your photos, opinions and experiences with us!
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