Spread the love!

London, Ohio: Where Fun and Adventure Meet – The Best Places to Visit and Things to Do!

London is the Madison County seat, out west of Columbus, and it competes on quiet rather than on attractions. Columbus has everything, and the traffic that goes with everything. Springfield up the road has the antiques under one roof. London has farmland, a scenic creek, an old theater on the square and very little asked of you. Come here to stop moving for a while.

Looking for a getaway that nobody else is writing about? London, Ohio is the answer. This charming town holds experiences you will remember for the right reasons. A serious eater, an outdoors person, a history reader or a shopper, London has something for you.

The strength of London is that it is still a small town. Friendly locals, quaint shops and restaurants, and you settle into it quickly. But do not let the size fool you, because there is plenty to see and do here. The great outdoors, the local history and culture, or simply good food, and you will not be bored in London, Ohio.

Key Takeaways

• London, Ohio is a charming and welcoming town with plenty of unique experiences to offer.
• From outdoor adventures to historical and cultural attractions, there’s something for everyone in London.
• Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, London is the perfect destination.

The Charm of London, Ohio

Planning a road trip through the Buckeye State? Put a stop in London, Ohio on the list. This rural town holds more than it looks like it should, from the parks through to the shopping.

The highlight of London is the Little Darby State Scenic River Preserve. Take a hike along the trails and let the natural side of the area do the work. The Little Darby Creek carries a wild and scenic river designation, which tells you what condition it is in. And it is the right way to stretch the legs after a long drive.

For something more relaxed, head over to Madison Lake State Park. This quiet park suits a picnic or an afternoon of fishing. And you do not need to be an expert angler, because there are usually people about who will tell you what is biting.

But London is not only nature, because the shopping is unusual too. The Gateway Shoppes of West Jefferson is the one for specialty and gift shops. And for antiques, the Heart of Ohio Antique Center is worth the drive west, with 179 antique shops under one roof.

So London, Ohio works as a road trip stop. Nature, shopping, or simply the rural quiet, and something here will land.

Culinary Delights

On food, London, Ohio has options enough. Casual lunch spots through to a proper dinner, this small town covers it. So here are the best places to eat and drink in London, Ohio.

Lunch Spots

Looking for a quick lunch? The Butcher Block is the answer. This local favorite runs a long menu of sandwiches, salads and soups. But the meat is the reason to go. Smoked brisket through to pulled pork, The Butcher Block has it. And take a side of the mac and cheese.

Dinner Time

When dinner comes round, head to The Willow Tree. This restaurant runs a warm room that works for a date night or a family meal. The menu is classic American with a modern turn on it, the chicken and waffles included. And leave room for the homemade pies.

Beer O’Clock

After a long day, a cold beer is the answer, and London, Ohio has options within reach. Head to Brewfontaine for craft beers and pub fare, which is a drive north rather than a walk. Or Mad River Farm Market for a quieter room and a rotating list of local brews.

So a hearty sandwich, a proper dinner or a cold beer, London, Ohio covers all three.

Outdoor Adventures

London, Ohio works for outdoor time. Seasoned hiker, keen kayaker, or simply after a camping trip, there are options within reach. Here are the best outdoor adventures around London, Ohio.

Hiking Trails

Looking for a hike? There are trails within reach of London, Ohio. One of the popular ones is the Mad River Trail, which runs along the Mad River with the countryside opening either side, though it is a drive north. And for something harder, the Cedar Falls Hiking Trail takes you through caves and waterfalls, which is a longer drive southeast.

Kayaking Spots

Kayaking is a good way into the rivers and lakes around London, Ohio. One of the best spots is the Little Miami River, with calm water and country either side. And for something harder, the Scioto River carries rapids that will test you. Both are drives out rather than local put-ins.

Fishing Locations

Fishing is a popular pastime around London, Ohio, and there are spots worth the drive. One of the best is the Buck Creek State Park, with a large lake stocked with several species. And the Mad River holds bass, catfish and trout for anyone willing to go north for it.

Camping Sites

For somewhere to pitch a tent, London, Ohio has options nearby. Deer Creek State Park is the pick, with campsites carrying electric hookups, showers and picnic tables. And the Mad River Campground sits right on the water, which is the quieter setting of the two.

So a hard hike, a slow kayak, a day of fishing or a night under canvas, London, Ohio puts all four within reach. Get out and use them.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

If you are a history reader or simply after something cultural, Ohio has plenty, though most of it is a drive from London. Museums, theaters and music venues, and the state carries all three.

Museums

Among the strongest museums in Ohio is the Cleveland Museum of Art, up in Cleveland and a long drive from here. With over 61,000 works spanning 6,000 years, hours disappear into it. And for something more specialised, the Toledo Museum of Art in Toledo holds a strong collection of glass art alongside works by Rembrandt and Monet.

Theaters

For a show, head to the historic Ohio Theater in Columbus, which is the closest of these by some way. The ornate decor and the plush seats put you back a century. Or, for something more modern, the Victoria Theater in Dayton runs Broadway musicals through to comedy acts.

Music Venues

Ohio has a long musical history and there are venues across the state. In Cleveland, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame holds the memorabilia, the interactive exhibits and live performances, though it is a serious drive. For something closer and lower-key, the Short North Arts District in Columbus carries bars and clubs with live music, jazz through to indie rock.

So whatever the cultural interest, Ohio has it somewhere. Grab the friends and work out how far you are willing to drive.

Fall is the season here and it is not a close contest. The orchards, the corn mazes and the hayrides all run through October, and the countryside finally earns its keep. Spring is the other good one, when the Darby creeks run full and the farmers market opens up again. Summer is hot and flat and better spent on water somewhere. Winter is quiet, and the town does not pretend otherwise about it.

Exciting Day Trips

Looking for something beyond London, Ohio? You are in luck, because the day trips out of here are good. Here are the best options:

Columbus Excursions

Columbus, the capital city of Ohio, is a short drive from London. There is plenty in it, from the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens through to the nightlife. And for something more active, Hocking Hills State Park has the hiking and the outdoor time, further southeast.

Cleveland Capers

Cleveland works as a longer day trip from London. Roller coaster people should note Cedar Point Amusement Park, which holds some of the best coasters in the world, though it sits west of Cleveland at the lake. And for something quieter, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park has the scenic hiking and biking trails.

Cincinnati Adventures

Cincinnati is the other city worth the drive from London. Walk the historic Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, or head to the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden for the animals. And for a thrill, Kings Island Amusement Park holds some of the best coasters and waterpark attractions in the state.

Toledo Travels

Toledo is the long day trip from London. Take a tour of the Toledo Museum of Art, or head to the Toledo Zoo for the animal encounters. And for outdoor time, the Toledo Botanical Garden or the Wildwood Preserve Metropark both work.

Wherever you choose to go, Ohio holds something worth the drive. So pack the bags, grab the friends and get on the road.

Where to Stay

On finding a bed in London, Ohio, you have options. Modern accommodations or a charming lodge, both are here.

Modern Accommodations

For somewhere sleek to sleep, the modern accommodations in London are the answer. These hotels and motels carry the amenities that make a stay easy. Free Wi-Fi through to complimentary breakfast, the mornings take care of themselves.

And these modern accommodations are clean and well-maintained, so the room is one thing less to think about. So treat yourself to a little comfort during the stay in London.

Charming Lodges

For something more rustic, consider one of London’s lodges. These accommodations run a more intimate and homey atmosphere, which suits anyone getting away from city life.

These lodges are clean and comfortable, and they give you something a hotel cannot. Fireplaces through to views over the surrounding countryside, and you settle in quickly.

So modern accommodations or a charming lodge, London, Ohio has both. Book the stay and see what this town does.

Shopping Spots

You might not think of London, Ohio as a shopping town, and the variety here says otherwise. Vintage finds, handmade crafts or current fashion, something will catch your eye.

One of the popular shopping spots in London is the Madison County Antique Mall. This indoor flea market is a proper trove of vintage and antique items, furniture and clothing through to jewelry and collectibles. Hours disappear into the booths.

For something a bit more modern, head over to the London Shopping Center. This outdoor mall carries clothing boutiques, home decor shops and more. And there are restaurants and cafes for refueling.

To shop local, check out the London Farmer’s Market. There you find fresh produce, handmade crafts and other goods from local vendors. It is where you stock up before a picnic in one of London’s parks.

And no shopping trip works without a thrift store. The Goodwill in London is where the bargains on clothing, accessories and home goods are. And the money goes somewhere useful.

So seasoned shopper or simply after an afternoon out, London, Ohio has the spots. Just bring the wallet and perhaps an extra bag.

Seasonal Activities

Spring Fun

Spring is a good time in London, Ohio. As the weather warms, the outdoor time opens up. Walk the parks and gardens, or ride the trails. For something more active, kayak or canoe on the rivers and lakes nearby. And stop at the local farmer’s market for the produce and the flowers.

Summer Excitement

Summer is when London, Ohio opens out. The days run long and warm, so the list gets longer. Take a dip in the community pool, camp at one of the nearby state parks, or watch a movie under the sky at the local drive-in theater. And there is softball and volleyball at the local park if you want a game.

Fall Festivities

Fall is the best season in London, Ohio. The leaves turn, the air sharpens and the countryside starts working for you. Take a hayride through the pumpkin patch, pick apples at the local orchard, or get lost in a corn maze. And Halloween is a proper occasion here, so bring a costume.

Winter Wonders

Winter is cold and snowy, and there is still plenty on in London, Ohio. Put the skates on at the local rink, or find a slope if the weather cooperates. And for something quieter, take a hot cocoa and a book into one of the local cafes. And do not miss the seasonal light displays and the parades in November and December.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the scoop on the London Strawberry Festival?

The London Strawberry Festival is the high point of the year in London, Ohio. It runs strawberry treats, carnival rides, live music and a parade. It is a county fair with more strawberries in it. Do not miss it if the dates line up.

Are there any fun things to do near London, Ohio or should I just entertain myself with cornhole?

Cornhole is fine, and there is more to London, Ohio than that. Walk through Cowling Park, visit the Madison County Historical Society, or catch a film at the State Theater. And for something outdoors, the nearby Deer Creek State Park has the hiking, the fishing and the boating.

What’s the deal with the State Theater in London, Ohio? Is it like Broadway or more like a middle school production?

We would not compare it to Broadway, and the State Theater is still the best room in London. It has stood since the 1930s and the renovation added modern amenities without losing the old character. Movies, concerts and community theater productions all run there. It is worth an evening.

What are some activities for toddlers near London, Ohio? Asking for a friend who’s tired of playing peek-a-boo.

We hear you. Toddlers are hard work, and there are things to do with them in London, Ohio. Take them to the Cowling Park Splash Pad for the water, visit the London Public Library for storytime and crafts, or look up the Little Explorers program at the Madison County Parks District. And there is always peek-a-boo.

Which city is closest to London, Ohio and is it worth the drive or should I just stay in my hometown and binge-watch Netflix?

The closest city to London, Ohio is Columbus, about a 30-minute drive away. And Columbus has plenty in it. Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, walk the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, or catch a Columbus Crew soccer game. Or stay in with Netflix, which is also a legitimate use of a day.

Frequently asked questions about London, Ohio

Is the Little Darby State Scenic River worth the walk?

It is, and it is the one genuinely distinctive thing near the town. The Darby creeks carry a scenic river designation because of what lives in them rather than because of the views, so the interest is close to the water. The trails through the preserve are flat and easy going. Spring and fall are the seasons for it, when the water is up and the light is good. Take boots you do not mind getting wet.

Is the State Theater still worth an evening?

Yes. It has stood on the square since the 1930s, and the restoration kept the old room while adding what a modern audience expects of one. The programme runs films, concerts and community theater rather than touring shows. Tickets cost a small fraction of what Columbus charges for the same evening. Check what is on before you plan an evening around it.

Which park near London actually delivers?

Deer Creek State Park, if what you want is more than an hour outdoors and a proper stretch of water. It is a short drive south and it carries campsites with hookups, showers and picnic tables, plus the water for fishing and boating. Madison Lake State Park is the closer and quieter option for an afternoon. Cowling Park in town is the one that handles small children. Pick by how far you are willing to drive on the day.

Spread the love!