Rio Grande, OH

Set in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, Rio Grande (pronounced "RYE-oh Grand" by locals) offers quiet country living with the welcoming feel of a college community. The village is home to the University of Rio Grande and Rio Grande Community College, which bring athletic events, campus arts, and educational resources to a close-knit population of under a thousand residents. Wooded hills and scenic backroads surround the area, giving it a peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere with plenty of open space.

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Rio Grande is also famous as the birthplace of Bob Evans, and the original homestead remains a local gathering spot with walking trails, green pastures, and the popular annual Farm Festival every fall. Daily routines here are relaxed, centered around local diners, neighborhood events, and outdoor spots along Raccoon Creek. When you need broader shopping, healthcare, or riverfront dining, the county seat of Gallipolis is just an easy 15-minute drive down Route 35.