Clevelanders are a proud people with a lot of unshakable love for their hometown. We love the cityscape, we love the shoreline, and, most importantly, we love our community. Yet, every once in a while, we still like to take a trip to a nearby small town where life is slower and people are somehow even friendlier. However, nothing compares to the sleepy atmosphere of Northeast Ohio's teeniest towns. You won't believe how petite these communities are, and you'll be surprised how few you have heard of.
1. Attica
Attica is a quaint little community in Seneca County about 90 minutes west of Cleveland . You won't believe how petite this village is; its entirety is contained on an area of only 0.67 square miles, in which just over 870 people live.
2. Hunting Valley
Hunting Valley was once part of Orange Township, which everyone knows is the birthplace of President James Abram Garfield. Today, this village spans about eight square miles, hosting only 715 residents. At the time of the 2000 census, the median income per household was over $200,000!
3. Bay View
Bay View is a dreamy slice of heaven found in Erie County near Sandusky, about an hour outside of Cleveland (traffic permitting). This village offers an incredible view of Sandusky Bay, making it a popular spot for summer homes. Only 607 residents dwell in this quaint community.
4. Bailey Lakes
At just over an hour outside of Cleveland, Ashland County truly provides a dreamy getaway for a day or a weekend. The landscape is incredible, and the abundant hills create a surreal environment for a casual drive. Bailey Lakes is one of its loveliest villages, but this itsy bitsy community is home to only about 375 people.
5. Woodmere
A mere 30 minutes southeast of Cleveland is this village of 860. Like Hunting Valley, it was once part of the former Orange Township. This community is itsy bitsy, with a total area of only 0.33 square miles.
6. Beloit
Have you ever seen a more picturesque high school? Beloit is a pretty community about and hour and 15 minutes outside of Cleveland, roughly comparable to a trip to Canton. This Mahoning County charmer has stolen the hearts of 920 residents.
7. Brady Lake
This super scenic Portage County community was named for the lake it borders. Legend has it that the lake was named for Captain Samuel Brady, who is said to have hidden in it while being pursued by a group from an indigenous tribe. At less than an hour outside of Cleveland, you may recognize this unincorporated area's neighbors: Kent, Streetsboro, and Ravenna. Unlike its neighbors, Brady Lake has a population of about 461 residents.
8. Glenwillow
At just a half hour away from Cleveland, one might expect to be familiar with this tiny town. It was once part of Solon Township, but it became a company town in 1893. With a mere 920 residents, students in this itty bitty 3-square-mile community head over to the Solon City School District for their education.
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9. Chippewa Lake
This Medina County stunner is perhaps best known for its breathtaking lake and its creepy abandoned amusement park. At a population of 734 people, this breathtaking community is a lovely place to go for some peace and quiet in the Medina County Park District. And, as it is only about 45 minutes outside of Cleveland, it is well worth a visit.
10. Burbank
Those who are familiar with the Ohio Station Outlets shopping center may have unknowingly driven through this charming village which is nestled against Killbuck Creek. Only 208 people reside here, constituting about 60 families.
We Clevelanders love to brag about how amazing our hometown is, but deep down, we all know that the entirety of Northeast Ohio is overflowing with hidden wonders. These super tiny towns are some of the area's hidden gems, and their charming landscapes just may capture your heart. What's your favorite itsy bitsy town in Northern Ohio? Tell us in the comments, and share some of your most scenic photos!
Do these tiny towns have you longing for a quaint atmosphere? You'd probably love a visit to some of Cleveland's best teeny tiny restaurants.
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