Exploring Ohio’s Hidden Gems – with Cindy Gordon
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Hi, I’m Cindy – and while I do run Visit Ohio Today and spend a lot of time exploring hidden gems around the state, that’s just one piece of what I do.

My main work? I’m a productivity and business coach for small business owners who have an online presence – and a million tabs open in their brain. If that’s you, I see you.
I help entrepreneurs who are full of ideas but stuck in the swirl of what to do first, how to make it all fit, and why everything always feels like too much. I help you clear the mental clutter, get laser-focused on what actually matters, and finally follow through on the plans you’ve been sitting on for way too long.
I’ve built and sold multiple online brands, grown digital products from scratch, and turned my own messy journey into a repeatable, sustainable framework that actually works for real life.
Visit Ohio Today is my creative outlet, but coaching is where I get to help others just like you – ambitious, capable, and maybe just a little overwhelmed – turn things around.
📍What We’re Covering Today – The Game Plan
I’m taking you on a little virtual road trip through 7 different regions across Ohio, and in each one, I’ll be sharing a few lesser-known, can’t-miss spots – the kind of places that aren’t in every brochure but are totally worth the detour.
If something catches your eye, feel free to snap a photo of the slide so you can come back to it later. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just want to explore more of the state, you’ll walk away with new ideas to add to your list.
THE GOAL – you walk away with at least ONE place you didn’t know about and ONE place you want to visit.
🪵 Amish Country
Here’s what people usually do in Amish Country: Visit Hershberger’s Farm, eat at Der Dutchman, and grab a fry pie or two.
But here’s what you shouldn’t miss… peaceful hikes, fascinating history, and backroad adventures that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another time.
Let’s break it down:
🪵 Ohio’s Amish Country – Peaceful, Unplugged, and Full of Surprises
- Lehman’s Hardware (Kidron) – Part store, part machine. From oil lamps to butter churns to cast iron skillets, this place is packed with old-fashioned charm and modern-day wonder. It’s like a living history museum with a gift shop you’ll actually want to spend time in. FREE
- Dundee Falls (Beach City Wildlife Area) – A short walk from the parking lot leads you to this peaceful, tucked-away waterfall. You can view the falls from the top, both sides, or even climb down the bank to see it from below if you’re up for a little adventure. It’s quiet, scenic, and feels like a secret worth sharing. FREE
- Behalt – Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center – A 10-foot-tall, 265-foot-long cyclorama mural-in-the-round with a powerful 45-minute narration. It beautifully explains the beliefs, history, and culture of the Amish, Mennonite, and Hutterite communities. Admission Cost
- Backroad Routes – The real magic of Amish Country is what’s not on the map. Get off the main roads and explore the rolling hills, see buggies clip-clopping by, and discover roadside stands with fresh pies, handwoven baskets, and other local treasures. FREE
- Where to Stay –
- Want a resort-style stay? Berlin Resort has you covered.
- Craving a romantic escape? Donna’s Premier Lodging offers personalized, cozy cottages.
- Prefer modern + walkable? Atlee Suites is chic and right on Main Street in Berlin.
Why You Should Go: Amish Country isn’t just quilts, jam, and fry pies (though you should definitely grab all three). It’s calm, connected, and full of character. If you’re craving a slower pace without giving up interesting things to do, this is your spot.
🌿 Yellow Springs Area – Artsy, Outdoorsy, and Full of Hidden Magic
Most people head to Yellow Springs for Young’s Jersey Dairy, a scoop of ice cream, and a stroll through the downtown shops.
But what most miss: A powerful little waterfall, the actual yellow spring, a bird rescue tucked in the woods, and one of the most peaceful creek beds in the state.
- Cedar Cliff Falls – A surprisingly powerful waterfall that’s easy to visit but layered with options. You can view it from both sides, across the bridge directly in front of the falls, or from an accessible paved path starting at the parking lot. Prefer a hike-in? That’s an option too. Insider tip: Walk a bit farther down the trail to find a skinny metal staircase leading down to Massie’s Creek. The rocky creek bed and towering stone walls feel like nature’s hidden amphitheater. FREE
- Glen Helen’s Yellow Spring – Yes, there really is a yellow spring (though fair warning – it looks more orange than yellow thanks to all the iron). Most people stop for the nearby cascades and totally miss this namesake spring. It’s tucked inside Glen Helen Nature Preserve and is worth the short hike to find it. Bring your curiosity and your camera. FREE with paid parking
- Glen Helen Raptor Center – A peaceful bird sanctuary tucked into the woods. You can hit it on your hike through Glen Helen or drive straight there. The center cares for owls, hawks, vultures, and other rescued birds of prey. It’s a quick stop, but meaningful – and especially fun if you’re visiting with kids (or bird nerds). FREE (donations appreciated)
- Downtown Yellow Springs – Walkable, whimsical, and packed with local flavor. Tie-dye shops, indie bookstores, handmade everything, and seriously good coffee. Plan to linger – you’ll want to.
Why You Should Go: Yellow Springs is equal parts nature, creativity, and charm. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, inspired, and maybe a little more artsy than when you arrived.
🏙️ Dayton, Ohio – Big History, Giant Trolls, and a Beer with a View
Here’s what people usually think of when they hear “Dayton” – the Air Force Museum or maybe the Wright Brothers.
But what they’re missing is way more fun: towering trolls in the woods, a bell tower with a view, hands-on printing presses, and a historic park that has everything – including eagles nesting overhead.
- The Trolls at Aullwood Audubon – Tucked deep in the woods of Aullwood MetroPark, these massive recycled-wood trolls (by Danish artist Thomas Dambo) are hidden along the trails, waiting to be discovered. It’s whimsical, unexpected, and absolutely worth the walk. FEE
- Carillon Historical Park – This place isn’t just a park – it’s a time-traveling experience. Must-see highlights:
- Brethen Tower – Climb 120 steps to overlook the park and the river valley.
- The Print Shop – Watch vintage presses come to life and chat with volunteers who lived this history. We met a man who grew up running these machines – he knew them inside and out. His stories? Pure gold.
- Cash Register Museum – Yes, cash registers. And yes, you’ll be more fascinated than you expect.
- Wright Brothers Bicycle Shop – The original building, not a replica.
- Carillon Brewing Co. – Order a beer brewed using 1850s methods. It’s one part history lesson, one part cold pint. Admission Required
- 💡 Insider Tip: Keep your eyes up – there’s a bald eagle nest perched above the Wright Brothers building. Last year, two eaglets hatched, and if you’re lucky, you might spot them soaring overhead or nesting in the trees.
Why You Should Go: Dayton is where history, heart, and quirky surprises come together. From giant trolls to eagles in the sky, it’s a weekend trip with stories you won’t forget.
🌳 Central Ohio Nature Gems – Elevated Walks, Wild Bison & Hidden Gardens
Here’s what people usually do in Columbus: Shop at Easton, visit the zoo, maybe hit up North Market.
But what they’re missing? Tree-top adventures, roaming bison, secret gardens, and nature spots that feel miles away from the city (without actually being miles away).
- Blacklick Woods Metro Park – Canopy Walk & Nature Center
A peaceful elevated boardwalk that gives you a unique view from above the trees. It’s short, serene, and absolutely worth the stroll. Don’t skip the Nature Center – it’s got floor-to-ceiling views into the woods, live animals, and interactive exhibits. FREE - Inniswood Metro Gardens (Westerville)
A stunning garden escape filled with walking paths, water features, and themed areas like the herb garden, rose garden, and a secret fairy door trail. It feels like a cross between a nature preserve and a dreamy botanical park. FREE - Battelle Darby Creek Metro Park
Home to roaming bison (yes, real ones!) on the restored prairie. This park also has miles of trails, two rivers, and a fantastic nature center with an underground aquarium-style stream viewing area. Wild and peaceful all at once. FREE - Blendon Woods Metro Park – Walden Waterfowl Refuge
A peaceful park with wooded trails and a hidden observation deck overlooking a lake teeming with birdlife. The Walden Refuge is especially beautiful in fall or during bird migration seasons. FREE
Just a few hours from Northeast Ohio, Central Ohio offers a totally different kind of nature escape – bison on the prairie, canopy walks, fairy trails, and peaceful overlooks that feel a world away from the day-to-day.
🥾 Hocking Hills – The Unexpected Side of Ohio’s Most Famous Nature Spot
The obvious stops? Old Man’s Cave – Great. Ash Cave – Great. Cedar Falls – Great.
But here’s what the locals know: There’s a whole other side to Hocking Hills – hidden trails, secret waterfalls, roadside springs, and even canoe trips with hiking detours. Oh, and if hiking’s not your thing? There are plenty of ways to experience the magic without breaking a sweat.
- Split Rocks Trail (Camp Oty’Okwa) – A true hidden gem that takes you through a 200-acre old-growth forest on land owned by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio. The trail ends at a dramatic rock formation called Split Rocks – massive slabs of Black Hand Sandstone believed to have split from an earthquake, now forming a natural maze.
To get there, drive into Camp Oty’Okwa, past several buildings, and watch for small trailhead signs on your right. It might feel awkward driving through the camp (especially when kids are present), but they’ve confirmed it’s totally fine for respectful hikers. There’s designated parking at the trailhead. The trail itself is peaceful, well-defined, and almost always quiet. FREE - Canoeing with Hocking Hills Adventures – This isn’t your average river float. Paddle the scenic Hocking River, stop mid-trip, hike up to see Rockbridge, the largest natural bridge in Ohio, then hop back in the canoe to finish your route. You’ll feel like you’re starring in your own choose-your-own-adventure. Rental Fee
- Big Spring Hollow Falls – Just down the road from Conkles Hollow, but not well marked, so it truly feels like an off-the-grid adventure. What makes it worth the effort? It’s the tallest waterfall in Ohio (yes, taller than Ash Cave) and one of the quietest spots around. You may have it all to yourself. FREE
- Hawk Hills Spring – Look for the line of parked cars on the roadside near Ash Cave – that’s your clue. This unmarked natural spring flows from a PVC pipe sticking out of a rock on the side of the road. Locals swear by the taste and purity, filling up huge jugs while swapping stories. Bring your own bottle and prepare to wait, though if you’re just grabbing a quick fill, they’ll usually let you skip ahead. It’s quirky, weirdly wholesome, and very local. Use at your own risk
- Bonus – No-Hike Options – Not into hiking? Rent a hot tub cabin, sip wine at a local vineyard, or just sit under the stars. Hocking Hills delivers even when your boots stay off.
Why You Should Go: Hocking Hills has the iconic hikes, but the real magic is found off the path. Whether you’re paddling, climbing, or collecting spring water from the side of the road, there’s always something surprising waiting to be found.
🌊 Lake Erie Shores & Islands – Lighthouses, Lake Breezes & Unexpected Stories
Here’s what people usually do up here: Ride the ferry to Put-in-Bay or hit the beach at East Harbor.
But what they’re missing? Quiet lighthouse views, hidden history, and the kind of stories you only hear when you slow down and listen.
- Marblehead Lighthouse
Ohio’s most iconic lighthouse – and one of the oldest continuously operating on the Great Lakes. Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch with sweeping views of Lake Erie and the islands in the distance. It’s peaceful, classic, and makes for stunning photos. FREE to visit the grounds, small fee for tower climb when open - Marblehead Lifesaving Station
A beautiful white boathouse right on the water’s edge, often overlooked by tourists rushing to the lighthouse. It’s peaceful, incredibly photogenic, and a great spot to sit, slow down, and take in the lake breeze. A perfect bonus stop that’s close to the main lighthouse. FREE - Port Clinton Lighthouse
Small but mighty, this restored lighthouse sits right on the shoreline with a quiet little park surrounding it. Pop into the tiny gift shop, and if you’re lucky, you’ll meet the gentleman inside who often volunteers. When the lighthouse was removed decades ago, it was moved to his backyard, and as a kid, he used it as his own playground. His stories are a piece of living Ohio history. FEE
Why You Should Go: Lake Erie’s shoreline is more than just sand and boats. It’s full of quiet corners, rich stories, and locals who’ve lived the history. Pack a lunch, follow the shoreline, and let the slower pace take over.
🎄 Portsmouth (Holiday Edition)
Most people don’t think of Portsmouth for the holidays – if they know it at all.
But what they’re missing is straight out of a Christmas movie: a lit-up bridge, a cave filled with nativity lights, carriage rides, and a state lodge that goes all-in on festive magic.
Portsmouth, Ohio – A Real-Life Hallmark Town
- Ottway Bridge – A glowing bridge covered in twinkle lights, turning every stroll into a magical, movie-worthy moment. It’s the kind of place that makes you believe in December magic again. FREE
- The Christmas Cave (Minford, OH) – A one-of-a-kind underground nativity experience inside a real cave. Dozens of peaceful displays, thousands of lights, and the quiet kind of awe we all crave around the holidays. FEE is a donation
- Winterfest in Downtown Portsmouth – Officially named a Hallmark Hometown Christmas Town in 2019 (yes, really). Think carriage rides, skating, festive storefronts, and hot cocoa on every corner. You’re basically the main character in a made-for-TV Christmas romance. FREE, but some fees apply for things like Buggy Ride, food, etc
- Stay at Shawnee Lodge – The recently renovated rooms are warm, cozy, and perfect for a winter escape. Inside? Dozens of decorated trees, holiday meals, cookie decorating, and Breakfast with Santa. Classic Ohio State Lodge holiday magic at its best.
Why You Should Go: It’s the perfect weekend getaway. Big holiday vibes without the big crowds – and the kind of small-town wonder you didn’t know you were missing.
Wrap-Up
That’s your little tour through some of Ohio’s best-kept secrets. I hope you’re leaving with a few new ideas, a few surprises, and maybe even a weekend trip you’re already dreaming about.
Whether you’re into waterfalls, quiet cabins, holiday magic, or historic lighthouses, there’s so much more to explore right here in our own backyard.
And just a quick reminder – beyond sharing hidden gems, I also work with small business owners to help them turn their ideas into action and get things done with more clarity, confidence, and structure. So if you’re ever thinking, “I could use someone in my corner,” I’m that someone.