Lebanon Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Lebanon with this comprehensive travel guide, including recommendations for places to visit, hiking/biking routes, accommodations, local cuisine, culture, safety, transportation, and more.
- Introduction to Lebanon
- List of Places to Visit in Lebanon
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Lebanon
- The Little Miami Scenic Trail
- Caesar Creek State Park
- Best Things to Do in Lebanon: Activities and Tours
- Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
- Golf Courses
- Week-Long Itinerary for Lebanon
- Food and Drink Scene of Lebanon
- Where to Stay in Lebanon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- The Golden Lamb
- Lebanon Hotel
- What to Buy in Lebanon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Lebanon Peddler
- Country Heart Primitives
- Local Culture and Customs of Lebanon
- Best Time to Visit Lebanon
- Do’s and Don’ts of Lebanon
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Lebanon: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Lebanon
- Where to Go Next from Lebanon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Lebanon
Lebanon is a small city located in Warren County, in the Greater Cincinnati area of Ohio, in the Midwest region of the United States of America. It is home to a population of approximately 20,000 people and offers a charming small-town feel with easy access to big-city amenities.
List of Places to Visit in Lebanon
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
The Golden Lamb
The Golden Lamb is one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in the U.S. and has been an iconic presence in Lebanon since 1803. It has hosted notable guests, including twelve U.S. presidents, and features an onsite museum showcasing the rich history of the hotel and Lebanon.
Warren County Historical Society & Museum
Located in a historic house, the Warren County Historical Society & Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich history. The collection includes period furnishings, artifacts, and exhibitions that showcase the local culture and heritage.
Glendower Historic Mansion
Built-in 1845, the Glendower Historic Mansion is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The mansion’s interior features period furnishings and art, and guided tours provide insight into the history of the area.
Natural Attractions of Lebanon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Caesar Creek State Park
Located just a short drive from Lebanon, Caesar Creek State Park offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The park also features a man-made lake, beaches, and campgrounds for overnight stays.
Countryside YMCA
The Countryside YMCA in Lebanon offers a wide range of recreational activities, including indoor and outdoor pools, fitness classes, and sports programs. Its extensive grounds feature walking trails, a fishing pond, and a ropes course.
Lebanon Countryside Trail
The Lebanon Countryside Trail is a 20-mile paved multi-use trail that passes through several small towns and scenic rural areas. It is ideal for hiking, biking, and walking and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Lebanon
The Little Miami Scenic Trail
This scenic trail is perfect for hiking, biking, and running and follows the banks of the Little Miami River. It offers beautiful views of the river and surrounding wooded areas and passes through several small towns.
Caesar Creek State Park
The park has several trails suitable for hiking and biking, ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty levels. Trails range from 0.5 to 12 miles and showcase the park’s natural beauty, including woodlands, prairies, and wetlands.
Best Things to Do in Lebanon: Activities and Tours
Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
The Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad offers a range of train rides throughout the year, including themed rides, murder mystery dinners, and seasonal events. The train departs from downtown Lebanon and takes visitors on a scenic tour of the area.
Golf Courses
Lebanon is home to several excellent golf courses, including The Golf Center at Kings Island, The City of Lebanon Golf Course, and Harmon Golf Club. Each course offers a unique experience for golfers of all skill levels.
Week-Long Itinerary for Lebanon
| Day | Activities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit The Golden Lamb, take a historic walking tour of downtown |
| 2 | Explore the Warren County Historical Society & Museum, Conquer Escape Rooms, Glendower Mansion |
| 3 | Hike or run along The Little Miami Scenic Trail, picnic at Countryside YMCA |
| 4 | Visit Caesar Creek State Park, rent a boat, and explore the lake |
| 5 | Take a train ride with Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad, have dinner at the historic Village Parlor |
| 6 | Enjoy 18 holes of golf at The Golf Center at Kings Island |
| 7 | Shop for souvenirs and gifts, relax with a local coffee at Corner Coffee Cafe |
Food and Drink Scene of Lebanon
Must-Try Dishes
Goetta
A local breakfast delicacy, Goetta is a mixture of ground pork and pinhead oats that is pan-fried and served with eggs. It is a regional specialty and can be found at many local diners and restaurants.
Cincinnati-style chili
Another Cincinnati staple, Cincinnati-style chili is a spicy meat sauce traditionally served over spaghetti, hot dogs, or French fries. It is a savory treat that is unique to the region.
Local Beverages
Jungle Jim’s International Market
Jungle Jim’s International Market is a local institution that offers visitors a selection of over 1500 beers, wines, and spirits from around the world. It is an excellent spot to explore and sample local brews and treats.
Lebanon BrewHAHa
Lebanon BrewHAHa is a popular local watering hole that features a rotating selection of craft beers and ciders. It is a fun and relaxed place to hang out with friends and enjoy a local brew.
Where to Stay in Lebanon: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The Golden Lamb
The Golden Lamb is one of Lebanon’s oldest and most iconic hotels, offering guests the opportunity to stay in historic and comfortable rooms in the heart of downtown Lebanon.
Lebanon Hotel
The Lebanon Hotel is a cozy and affordable option for travelers looking to stay in downtown Lebanon. The rooms are comfortable, and the location is ideal for exploring the local area.
What to Buy in Lebanon: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Lebanon Peddler
Lebanon Peddler is a local gift shop that offers unique and handcrafted gifts, including pottery, jewelry, and home decor items. It is an excellent place to find a souvenir to remember your trip to Lebanon.
Country Heart Primitives
Country Heart Primitives is a local shop that offers a selection of handcrafted, country-style home decor and gift items. It is a great spot to find a unique and authentic gift or souvenir.
Local Culture and Customs of Lebanon
The local culture and customs of Lebanon are strongly influenced by its early settlers, including German immigrants, and the unique blend of Midwest and Southern hospitality. The city is known for its friendly residents, excellent food, and charming downtown area.
Best Time to Visit Lebanon
The best time to visit Lebanon is during the spring and fall months when the weather is pleasant, and the area is alive with color and activity. The summer months can be hot and humid, and the winter months can be cold and snowy, so plan accordingly.
Do’s and Don’ts of Lebanon
Do:
- Take a historic walking tour of downtown Lebanon
- Enjoy the local cuisine, including Goetta and Cincinnati-style chili
- Explore the local museums and learn about the area’s rich history
Don’t:
- Forget to check out the scenic hiking and biking trails in the area
- Miss the chance to take a train ride with Lebanon Mason Monroe Railroad
- Leave without taking home a unique local souvenir or gift
Safety and Health
Safety in Lebanon
Lebanon is a relatively safe city, but like any urban area, visitors should take precautions. Common sense safety measures apply, such as staying aware of your surroundings and not leaving valuables in your car.
Health in Lebanon
There are no specific health concerns when visiting Lebanon, Ohio. Visitors should follow basic health guidelines, such as drinking plenty of water, washing hands frequently, and getting enough sleep.
Getting to Lebanon: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Lebanon
The nearest airports to Lebanon are the Dayton International Airport (DAY) and the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG). Both airports are approximately a 45-minute drive from Lebanon.
Bus Stations Near Lebanon
The closest bus station to Lebanon is in Cincinnati, Ohio, approximately 30 miles from the city center.
Other Options
Renting a car is a popular and convenient option for travelers visiting Lebanon. Rental car agencies are located at both the Dayton and Cincinnati airports, and there are several locations in and around Lebanon.
How to Get Around in Lebanon
Lebanon is a small city that is easily navigable by foot or bicycle. Several taxi and rideshare services, including Uber and Lyft, are also available for transportation around and beyond the city.
Where to Go Next from Lebanon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Lebanon is located in a prime location for exploring the region, with several nearby attractions and destinations. Some popular excursions from Lebanon include:
- Cincinnati, Ohio
- Dayton, Ohio
- Kings Island amusement park
- The National Museum of the United States Air Force
Conclusion
Lebanon, Ohio, offers visitors a charming and friendly small-town experience with easy access to big-city amenities and attractions. From scenic hiking and biking trails to historic sites and excellent local cuisine, Lebanon is a destination worth exploring.
