Romantic Weekend Getaways in Ohio

Weekend Getaways in Ohio

I’ve found that Ohio is full of hidden gems when it comes to romantic weekend escapes. After a whirlwind city week, slowing down in the Buckeye State was a dream come true. Just a short drive from the bustle of daily life, you can discover cozy cabins tucked in the woods, magical and mysterious castles, lakes, and even city spots that surprise you.

If you are in a hurry:

  • Option 1 for a two-day itinerary: Relax and unwind at Landoll's Mohican Castle and check out a few sights nearby. Plan a fall foliage trip or a Christmas trip to make it extra special.
  • Option 2 for a two-day itinerary: The Inn at Honey Run, Ohio and use it as a base to learn about local culture, hike, and try something truly local like the Holmes County Open Air Art Museum
  • Option 1 For a three-day itinerary: Stay at The Bertram Inn at Glenmoor and check out many activities and attractions you have available in Canton, Ohio
  • Option 2 for a three-day itinerary (summer option): Head to Kelleys Island and use A Water's Edge Retreat as a base to enjoy local wineries, parks and beaches
  • Option 3 for a three-day itinerary: Check into The Grand Resort, Warren and get massages, play golf and explore nearby

I’m sharing my favorite ways to spend a cozy 48 hours on a romantic Ohio getaway. I hope you enjoy them too.

Explore castle-like suites and stroll woodland trails on a romantic weekend escape.
Landoll's Mohican Castle

1. Landoll's Mohican Castle

Landoll's Mohican Castle is one of my favorite weekend getaways in Ohio, and honestly, it feels like one of the most underrated luxury escapes in the U.S.

When we arrived at Landoll’s Mohican Castle in Loudonville after driving 1 hour 30 minutes northeast from Columbus, Ohio where we were based for four weeks and I immediately felt like we had stepped straight into a magical, mysterious fairy tale hidden deep in the forest.

Driving up the winding road and seeing the castle’s towers rise above the trees was absolutely spectacular. It felt like discovering a hidden gem in the Midwest...

Our suite had rustic wood beams, cozy fireplaces, and big windows looking out into the forest, and staying there gave us a joyful sense of both comfort and adventure while celebrating my husband's birthday.

We spent the afternoon wandering through the grounds, exploring garden paths and tucked-away corners. I thought it was the coolest mix of history, nature, and fantasy.

Dining at the Copper Mug Bar & Grille on-site was one of my favorite parts. The food tasted hearty and delicious, and the setting made it even more memorable on our romantic getaway. I wanted to stretch out the dinner so that it wouldn't end.

At night, the castle glowed under soft lights. It was exciting to sit outside, sip a drink, and watch the stars emerge over the treetops. I recommend going during the warmer season so that you can hang out outside more. But it's magical year-round! There's the fall season when everything is spectacular (we came for two nights for the second time during the fall). And Christmas decorations at Landoll's Mohican Castle are very dreamy!

Since we were there for two nights, we also checked out Malabar Farm State Park 25 minutes away. If you are a fan of the famous movie "The Shawshank Redemption", you can do a self-guided driving tour of The Shawshank Trail with 15 filming sites!

I also thought it was awesome that Landoll's Mohican Castle hosts mysterious ghost tours and events. This ads another layer of fun for anyone who loves a little mystery.

To book, check availability or prices for Landoll’s Mohican Castle .

What I loved best:

What I love most is that Landoll’s Mohican Castle is the absolute best romantic getaway in Ohio because it's part fantasy, part retreat...it's unforgettable!

Christmas lights at  Landoll's Mohican Castle as a super special sight
Fall foliage view of Malabar Farm State Park
My photo of a forest trail on a romantic hike
My photo of a forest trail on a romantic hike
Relax in cozy cottages and admire forest views on a quiet fall getaway.
The Inn at Honey Run

2. The Inn at Honey Run, Ohio

When we arrived at The Inn at Honey Run in Ohio’s Amish Country for our two-night stay, I immediately felt wrapped in peace. All the beautiful nature of the quiet woods made it feel like a true escape from everyday life.

We checked into our room and I loved how it blended rustic charm with modern comfort. I especially appreciated the big windows that made you feel like you're living in a forest. It inspired us to head outside and do some hiking in the woods. We found the outdoor art museum tucked into the woods. It felt to us like stumbling upon a hidden gem.

One of my favorite parts was dining at Tarragon, the on-site restaurant. You could really taste that the food was super fresh (and also locally sourced). You don't get that kind of flavor unless it's been picked a day before!

I thought that the Holmes County Open Air Art Museum was a place of mystery with art that was part of the nature. There were also various birding stations where we saw finches, cardinals and bluebirds (and squirrels of course!)

I thought it was exciting how the inn offered so many ways to unwind. You can sit next to cozy fireplaces, on private balconies, and even hillside honeycomb rooms built right into the landscape.

For me, The Inn at Honey Run, just 1 hour 30 minutes northeast from Columbus, is the best Ohio getaway for romance that blends nature, art, and comfort in the most unique way possible.

To book, check availability or prices for The Inn at Honey Run

What I loved best:

I loved how the atmosphere encouraged us to slow down, disconnect, and really appreciate the beauty all around us. At sunset I was really appreciative of all the magic and natural beauty around us that made everything feel special.

Visit with the kids and explore fun family-friendly sights in a grand setting.
The Bertram Inn at Glenmoor

3. The Bertram Inn at Glenmoor

The Bertram Inn at Glenmoor in Canton, Ohio, just about two hours from Columbus, is an awesome, comfortable, romantic escape that's one of my favorite weekend getaways in Ohio.

Driving up to the grand, castle-like architecture instantly gave me the sense that this was going to be a spectacular stay. It was shrouded in mystery and it looked more like a European estate than an Ohio getaway.

I loved how the property was tucked into a peaceful golf community, a hidden gem right in the Midwest.

Our room for two nights was spacious and inviting, with plush bedding and warm decor that gave us a joyful sense of relaxation from the moment we checked in.

We spent the afternoon exploring the spa and fitness center, and I thought it was awesome how the inn offered so many ways to recharge, whether you wanted a massage or just a swim in the pool.

Dinner at the on-site restaurant was one of my favorite parts, with delicious dishes served in a cozy, elegant atmosphere that made the evening feel special.

Later, we walked around the grounds at sunset, and the castle-like towers glowing against the sky were absolutely the coolest sight of the day.

I also thought it was exciting that the inn is such a versatile spot. We liked it for our romantic getaway but you can also go on a golf weekend outing with your girlfriends.

Next day we were feeling energized to we headed to Canton Museum of Art, William McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, and First Ladies National Historic Site. If you have more time, there's also the Canton Classic Car Museum and MAPS Air Museum. I thought that The Troll Hole Museum in nearby Alliance that holds the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of troll dolls was quite mysterious and a weird hidden gem. You can also pick up a gift for the kids at home here.

To book, check availability or prices for The Bertram Inn

What I loved best:

For me, The Bertram Inn at Glenmoor is an underrated Ohio treasure that makes a quick two-hour trip feel like a world away, truly special and one-of-a-kind.

Wake to lake views and enjoy romantic walks along the shoreline.
A Water's Edge Retreat

4. A Water's Edge Retreat

A Water’s Edge Retreat on Kelleys Island is the kind of place that feels like a true escape. Tucked away on the shores of Lake Erie, it has this rare ability to balance comfort, charm, and tranquility all in one. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I had discovered a hidden gem that only a few lucky travelers get to experience.

The retreat is surrounded by natural beauty—the water on one side, lush greenery on the other—and everything about it encourages you to slow down and take it all in. Sitting out on the porch and watching the lake shift colors throughout the day quickly became one of my favorite rituals.

My guest room was warm and welcoming, with just the right mix of elegance and coziness. Thoughtful touches made it feel personal, almost like staying at a friend’s lakefront home rather than a traditional inn. The view of the water from my window added to the sense of calm and made mornings especially peaceful.

Breakfast at the retreat was another highlight. Served fresh each morning, it felt like an experience in itself—homemade, thoughtful, and the perfect way to start the day before exploring the island.

Nearby we had a chance to explore Glacial Grooves, Kelleys Island State Park, Inscription Rock, Crooked Tree Vineyard, Kelleys Island Historical Association Museum, North Shore Alvar State Nature Preserve and the Scheele Preserve).

What I loved best was how staying here felt so restorative. Whether I was walking along the shoreline, enjoying the stillness of the property, or venturing out to explore Kelleys Island, I always felt like I had the best of both worlds: adventure close by, and serenity waiting for me back at the retreat.

To book, check availability or prices for Water’s Edge Retreat

What I loved best:

I think that A Water's Edge Retreat is one of the best romantic weekend getaways in Ohio. Why? The adored the peaceful lakeside setting, the way the retreat opens right onto the water makes it feel like your own private slice of Lake Erie, a unique and special place I haven't found anywhere else!

Kelleys Island sunrise over Lake Erie
Kelleys Island in July on a summer trip
I think wintertime on Kelleys Island is beautiful but many wineries are closed
Golf all day and relax in luxury on an exciting weekend getaway.
The Grand Resort, Warren

5. The Grand Resort, Warren

We drove one hour southeast from Cleveland to Warren and checked into The Grand Resort in Warren, Ohio for two nights. I immediately felt like we had stepped into a luxurious retreat that had everything we could possibly want in one place.

The grand lobby set the tone with elegant decor and welcoming staff, and I thought it was absolutely spectacular how seamlessly comfort and sophistication came together.

Our room was spacious and modern, with plush bedding, sleek finishes, and a balcony overlooking the grounds. If you you appreciate these thoughtful touches, you'll love it here.

I loved that the resort offered so many amenities, from indoor and outdoor pools to tennis courts and even a golf course. It felt like a hidden gem right in Northeast Ohio.

One of my favorite parts was dining at one of the on-site restaurants. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere made the meal feel special without being over the top.

Later, we spent time at the cigar lounge and wine cellar, and I thought it was the coolest touch that added to the resort’s unique character.

We also got Swedish massages at the spa, and it was awesome to have such relaxing treatments available without ever leaving the property.

In the evening, walking around the beautifully landscaped grounds under the soft glow of lights made the whole place feel romantic and unforgettable.

Check prices at The Grand Resort

What I loved best:

For me, The Grand Resort in Warren is the absolute best Ohio getaway when you want luxury, relaxation, and endless amenities all in one destination. It's especially a treat for golfers in addition to being a romantic getaway! The Grand Resort, Warren is a favorite Ohio escape I can’t wait to return to!

I thought this was cool-Corwin Nixon Covered Bridge in Warren, Ohio
The William McKinley National Memorial in Canton
Romantic sunset reflection in a lake
Berea Falls, Cleveland Ohio during fall foliage in October

Booking Checklist

1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.

2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.

3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.

4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.

Ema Bio
Hi, I'm Ema. I'm the face behind Vacation Idea. My husband, son, and I spent years on the road, basing ourselves in each place for one or two months at a time. This has allowed us to experience each destination as a local, and Im eager to help you with travel itineraries, weekend inspirations, and local tips. I'm eager to learn from my fellow travelers and I love to chase unique experiences and revisit old favorites, anything from great sunsets and hidden gems to places of mystery and underrated experiences. More about us.
 

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