I am such a sucker for day trips in touristy small towns; they are everything that is right with America. I love the local food, the local shops, and the treasure trove of culture woven throughout each one. My son and husband can attest that I will nimbly traverse any small town we happen upon, chat with shop owners, and say out loud every hour, “This is just so cute!” as we make our way through the streets.
They offer travelers a unique opportunity to get a true sense of what the area stands for and make great escapes for visitors and locals alike. One thing I also really love? The fascinating history you can unearth. Each quaint town in America has lived several lives since it was first established in the late 1700s or early 1800s, and small towns have a special track record of making sure that history is honored.
Recently, Newsweek readers voted for their favorite historic small towns, and the one that topped the list was Marietta in the great, unexpected state of Ohio.
When Marietta, OH was officially established
To truly trace the area’s history, you need to transport back over 2,000 years, when the Adena and Hopewell Indian cultures settled and disappeared around 500 B.C. The next group of Native American cultures—the Delaware, Mingo, and Shawnee—arrived around 1650 and lived there until about 1850. The Marietta we know and love today was officially established in 1788 and became the first settlement in the Northwest Territory.
The town played a role in key historical events, including serving as home to several Underground Railroad stops. And thanks to its proximity to the river, it grew into a major trading center for the state.
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What historic sites can you still visit in Marietta, OH?
Considering just how old this town is, there’s plenty to see and experience for history buffs.
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Campus Martius Museum: Built on the original site of Marietta’s first permanent settlement, this museum showcases exhibits that chronicle early settler life.
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Mound Cemetery & Marietta Earthworks: Though macabre, this slice of Marietta is teeming with history. The cemetery has a remarkably high number of graves belonging to Revolutionary War officers, and walking the grounds gives visitors a vivid sense of the area’s Native American and early colonial roots.
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Ohio River Museum: This museum paints a vivid picture of life along the Ohio and Muskingum Rivers, including historic vessels. Note: Currently closed for renovations.
Related: You probably haven’t heard of this ‘small’ Texas town that was named the top Christmas city in the U.S.
What else is there to do in Marietta, OH?
There are plenty of modern-day attractions to round out your visit.
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Wayne National Forest: Just outside town, this stunning outdoor oasis offers biking, hiking, and sweeping views from scenic overlooks.
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Explore Local Shops: Downtown Marietta is full of historic homes to admire, and nearby Harmar Village is packed with charming shops and local eateries.
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Ghost and Haunted History Tours: For anyone who wants to blend history lessons with a bit of fun, these tours are a standout way to experience the city.
Spending a weekend in a town like this is sure to be a blast.
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This story was originally published by TravelHost on Dec 10, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add TravelHost as a Preferred Source by clicking here.