Mantua, Ohio

Photo of Buckeye Trail Town Mantua, Ohio. Photo by Jill Moorhead.
Trail Town dedication
Jul 8, 2018
Section
Mogadore
Chapter
Crooked River Chapter
County
Portage
Page last updated
Nov 9, 2025

About Mantua, Ohio

Designated as Ohio’s 10th Buckeye Trail Town in July 2018, Mantua serves as a key convergence point for the Buckeye Trail, Headwaters Trail, and the Cuyahoga River Water Trail. Nestled in northern Portage County, 17 miles southeast of Chagrin Falls and just a few minutes north on state Route 44 off the I-80 Turnpike at exit 193, the village offers maple-lined trails, serene waterfalls, and a welcoming environment for outdoor enthusiasts.

History and Geography

Mantua’s roots date back to 1798, when the first settlers arrived. The area was later owned by the Tappan family, who renamed their properties Mantua after visiting the Italian city in 1842. The village was laid out in the 1840s as Mantua Station, a stop on the Cleveland and Mahoning Valley Railroad, and was incorporated in 1898.

Why You Should Visit

Mantua is a trail lover’s haven, drawing hikers, cyclists, and paddlers to its scenic routes and vibrant community events like the Triple Trail Fest, which showcases the area’s natural beauty and trail systems. Mantua preserves its past with three sites on the National Register of Historic Places: the Horace L. Hine House, the Mantua Station Brick Commercial District, and the William H. Crafts House.

Outdoor recreation opportunities

  • Hiking: The Buckeye Trail and Headwaters Trail provide scenic routes with views of waterfalls and maple forests.
  • Biking: The Headwaters Trail is an 8.5-mile, smooth, flat, wide, limestone-paved multipurpose trail for cycling, hiking, and horseback riding.
  • Kayaking/Canoeing: Mantua is situated on the upper Cuyahoga River, perfect for exploring the Cuyahoga River Water Trail. Public access is available at Buchert Memorial Park.

Places to visit

Events

  • Triple Trail Fest: An annual festival celebrating the convergence of the Buckeye Trail, Headwaters Trail, and Cuyahoga River Water Trail on the first Saturday in June.
  • Art on the Hill: Held every summer on the second Saturday in July.
  • Portage County Soap Box Derby: Held annually in June
  • The Poker Paddle: Hosted by the Mantua Rotary Club and held the first Saturday after Labor Day. Paddle along the river and collect cards to create a winning poker hand.

Lodging

  • Vacation rentals: A luxury barndominium, managed by Restoration 44 Coffee Co., is available for booking through Airbnb. There are numerous other Airbnb and Vrbo lodging options available in the village.

Community and tourism links

Photo of Buckeye Trail Town Mantua, Ohio. Photo by Kim Love-Ottobre

Trail Town news

Photo of Buckeye Trail Town Mantua, Ohio. Photo by Jill Moorhead

Amenities

  • Public camping area: None at this time.
  • Access to restrooms: Available at Buchert Memorial Park.
  • Shower availability: None at this time.
  • Grocery store: Local convenience stores are available on Main Street.
  • Post office: 10748 N. Main Street, Mantua, OH 44255
  • Outdoor store: Mantua Hardware offers outdoor equipment and supplies.
  • Bike pump and/or repair kit: Equipment may be available at Mantua Hardware.
  • Food options: Jake’s Diner, Restoration 44 Coffee Co., Main Street on the River, Top Tier Pastry

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