Ohio is sometimes still disparagingly called a flyover state – a part of the American Midwest only ever seen from 30,000 feet up. But to stick to this stereotype would mean never exploring the state’s fascinating museums or Amish communities. Nor would you get to experience a great range of Ohio romantic weekend getaways.
“Romance” might not be the first word that comes to mind when you think of Ohio, but that’s because you need to take a closer look. Off the beaten path of the major U.S. tourist destinations, lovers can enjoy the private and relaxing intimacy that Ohio has to offer. Between the quaint Amish towns to the tucked-in nature, you’ll crave these rejuvenating getaways to spend with your loved one.
Here’s our pick of the best romantic getaways in Ohio:
1. Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls
Wrap yourself in coziness at this ultimate couples’ getaway destination. Surrounded on three sides by the gorgeous Hocking Hills State Park, the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls provides the perfect backdrop for a peaceful weekend away from reality.
Enjoy an aromatherapy Jacuzzi bath in your suite, or snuggle up to your special someone by the warm fireplace in the cottages or 1840s cabins. For full relaxation, indulge in the couples massage offered at the Inn.
If you want to get out in nature, the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls has hiking trails through Ash Cave and Old Man’s Cave, lined with serene waterfalls and beautiful rock formations.
Website: https://innatcedarfalls.com/
2. The Mohicans Treehouses
When you’re wanting to test out your adventurous side—but still stick with luxury—you have to try the Mohicans Treehouses. Uniquely crafted by renowned designer Pete Nelson, these treehouses were originally built for the Animal Planet/Discovery Channel Show “Treehouse Masters.”
After the show aired in June 2013, the owners decided to convert these magical pockets of accommodation inventiveness into commercial lodgings. Each of the treehouses encapsulates its own theme. The Old Pine Treehouse, for example, is made to welcome guests into a vintage and antique lodging experience. Built from 100% recycled materials, including 100-year-old barn siding and a sliding barn door, this place gives you that rustic charm you’ve always yearned for.
The Little Red Treehouse juxtaposes Old Pine’s antique feel with bright red siding, colorful stained-glass windows, and modern fixtures. And fitting somewhere in the middle, the White Oak Treehouse is draped with grapevine railings and a cedar double door entrance, all overlooking the Mohican Valley.
Since there are only three treehouses to choose between I’d seriously recommend acting fast to make a reservation. This unique experience is absolutely worth it.
Website: http://www.themohicans.net/
3. Hotel LeVeque
With 149 rooms, calling itself “boutique” may be taking things a bit far. However, Hotel LeVeque remains a lush pick for anyone seeking a little romance a stone’s throw from downtown Columbus. Few can resist the charms of its iconic structure, which forms an instantly recognizable part of the city skyline.
Inside, there’s a soft art-deco styling which never becomes over the top. The space and comfort continues into oversized bathrooms, although to show your significant other just how much you love them I think you have to opt for one of the hotel’s handful of suites. Each of them provide views of the Scioto River Mile.
Website: https://www.hotellevequecolumbus.com/
4. Lafayette Hotel in Marietta
Travel back in time by staying at the Lafayette Hotel in Marietta. Built in 1918, this hotel preserves its history with Victorian décor and themed rooms.
The town’s roots date back to 1788, when Marietta became the first permanent U.S. settlement northwest of the River Ohio. During the day, couples can therefore explore the old riverboat town of Marietta and then come back to a romantic dinner at the Gun Room Restaurant onsite.
Previously known as The Rufus Putnam Dining Room, this hall opened in 1931 for only the most prestigious guests. Luckily for modern travelers, it was formally opened to the public in 1946. The Gun Room today is daubed with steering arms, steamboat instruments, pilot wheels, and a telegraph.
Website: http://www.lafayettehotel.com/
Also check out my guide on the best hidden gems in Ohio!
5. The Villa Suites at Gervasi Vineyard
Who said all Italian-Americans stayed on the East Coast? The Swaldo family of Ohio initially ran this property as a vineyard, but eventually transformed it into what is now a Tuscan-inspired getaway smack in the middle of the Midwest. And we all know Italians do romance like no one else.
At the Villa Suites, you can enjoy the luxury of spa services, in-room yoga, carriage rides, craft beer tasting, cooking classes, winery tours, and a complimentary Italian-style continental breakfast, all entwined in the romantic Italian-inspired atmosphere. This destination is especially perfect for wine enthusiasts.
Website: http://www.gervasivineyard.com/
6. Ravenwood Castle
Is your dream vacation to live like a king? If so, you should consider this medieval-style inn for your next romantic getaway.
The site resembles English castles from the 12th and 13th centuries, and you can choose to stay in castle rooms, cabins, cottages, or gypsy wagons with your queen. Then survey your temporary kingdom, which includes the stunning natural beauty of the Hocking Hills, where the hiking is second to none.
Family run, this home-away-from-home (or perhaps castle-away-from-castle) is packed with loving heritage features, from wood paneling to comfy armchairs and roaring fires. So sit back and enjoy soaking up the rich atmosphere while you dine on the inn’s traditionally-styled home-cooked meals.
Website: http://www.ravenwoodcastle.com/
7. Hide Away Country Inn
Step into any lodging fantasy you can imagine at the Hide Away Country Inn in central Ohio. Praised as one of the top romantic locations in the world by bedandbreakfast.com, this place offers something for everyone. Aside from the standard restaurant, pub, and spa treatments, Hide Away showcases a different theme in every room.
There’s so much character to explore at this place, but just to give you an idea, two of the themes are “Out of Africa” and “Country Charm.” In the first, luscious chocolate marble, cherry wood flooring, and elaborate prints and linens celebrate Africa’s glory. In the second, you can appreciate the recycled wood of a one-room, old-country church, as well at a Southern-style covered porch with rocking chairs facing out into the 400 acres of farmland.
All the rooms come adorned with whirlpools, fireplaces, and modern amenities for guaranteed comfort. They’re also just an hour north of Columbus, and two hours from Pittsburgh, Detroit, and Cleveland, providing a romantic escape close to home.
Website: http://www.hideawayinn.com/
8. Glenlaurel
Glenlaurel is the perfect place to put on that kilt and bring out that whiskey you’ve been hiding away! Well, the other guests might stare, but you’ll feel right at home in this Scottish country inn that serves gourmet breakfasts and 6- and 7- course candlelit meals. That kilt will definitely come in handy when you can no longer reach your pant buttons, while the hum of bagpipes provides a definite Scottish ambience.
You can choose from romantic rooms and cottages, and wander aimlessly through the 140 acres of hiking trails, waterfalls, and nature within the Hockings Hills.
Website: http://glenlaurel.com
9. Georgian Mannor Bed and Breakfast
The name of Georgian Mannor Bed and Breakfast gives a great hint of what to expect. This charming spot, bursting with southern hospitality, lies on expansive grounds on the banks of Lake Logan. Whatever the time of year, its uninterrupted views promise as much as they deliver: spring flowers, summer greens, fall foliage, and winter crispness.
Interiors are authentically Georgian, but with all the modern conveniences you would expect added in. Rich dark woods form much of the decoration, extending across private rooms and shared spaces such as the large country kitchen. How good is Georgian Mannor for a romantic Ohio getaway? Well, it’s been ranked the region’s top stay on Tripadvisor thirteen years in a row!
Website: https://georgianmannor.com/
10. Tarragon at the Inn at Honey Run
Escape from it all at the Tarragon. This tranquil stay offers romantic getaways with fireplaces, Jacuzzis, and floor-to-ceiling windows. To turn it up a notch, you can upgrade to stay in one of the two private cottages. Complete with modern furnishings, you can snuggle up to your own private fireplace or swoon with your sweetie in the outdoor hot tub in these cottages, separated from the other guests.
Meanwhile, Tarragon has a host of added extras which I think deserve serious consideration. They range from in-room couple’s breakfasts featuring bacon omelets, sausage links, hash browns, Belgian waffles, coffee, and bloody Marys. What a way to start the day.
Website: http://www.innathoneyrun.com/
11. Maumee Bay State Park Lodge
To spend some alone time with your darling, you can visit the Maumee Bay State Park Lodge, where every room has its own private balcony. If that’s not enough privacy, you can also opt to stay in one of the 24 furnished cottages on the premises, four of which have their own hot tubs.
If you’re looking for activities, this location offers a wine trail connecting up a series of local wineries. You’re also close to Toledo Zoo, Toledo Museum of Art, and romantic strolls along the waterfront of Lake Erie.
Website: http://www.maumeebaystateparklodge.com/
12. The Yurts at Nomad Ridge at The Wilds
Like the Mohican Treehouses, this getaway is one of the more unique lodging experiences for fun-loving couples. Take advantage of the seclusion in these nomadic-style huts located on the grounds of the safari park The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio. Each hut is built with canvas over a wooden frame, complete with bamboo floors and a private bathroom, just like the Native Americans would have wanted.
Enjoy the tranquility of the nature around you, relax on your hut’s private porch, or sit by the bonfire as you take in the sites of rhinos and giraffes off into the distance. But be quick, the Lodge at The Wilds is only open during the warmer months of May to October each year.
Website: https://thewilds.columbuszoo.org/
13. The Lakehouse Inn & Winery
You know whenever there’s a winery attached, it’s going to be good. At the Lakehouse Inn, enjoy the pampering of a full spa, farm-to-table cuisine, and of course, the winery. Add to that vistas over Lake Erie and you’ve got your romantic getaway close to wrapped up.
Except of course that you can also sink into the romance of this stay all the better with one of their many packages for love birds. In my view, its the “Date Night” package which takes care of pretty much everything you could want. Besides accommodation, you’ll get an hour-long couple’s massage, $50 dining voucher for the Crosswinds Grille, and breakfast basket the following morning. Plus, you can throw in rose petals and a local cheese board as add ons too.
Website: http://www.thelakehouseinn.com/
14. Whispering Pines Bed and Breakfast
Remember when you used to come home from school and your mom would have treats waiting for you and your friends? Imagine the adult version of that. When you come to the Whispering Pines (even the name puts you at ease), there are chocolate chip cookies, tea, and coffee waiting for you at all times.
Once in the guest room, couples have their own whirlpool tub, electric fireplace, private balcony, and impeccable views. And—this is the best part—if you want a massage, the masseuse comes to you! Lie back and get a professional massage in your own suite.
15. Salt Fork Lodge
Nestled along the Salt Fork Lake in this state park, you will get the calm and outdoors you’ve been craving. During the warmer weather, you can enjoy lake activities, horseback riding, and various campfires dotted throughout the property.
Although Salt Fork Lodge is popular with young families, couples can upgrade to private lodges complete with hit tubs and open fireplaces, far enough away from screaming kids you’ll never know they are there. A great stay for sports and outdoor lovers, Salt Fork Lodge also has several hiking trails and a golf course to keep you both entertained and loved-up.
Website: http://saltforkstateparklodge.com
Looking to discover more of what Ohio has to offer. Check out my guide to the Most beautiful places to visit in Ohio!