New Ohio Foothills Region Brand Launched to Market Appalachian Ohio as a Tourist Destination
Grant-Funded Project Aims to Strengthen Tourism and Economic Development
Press Release
By Jackee Pugh, Ex. Dir. Belmont County Tourism
ST. CLAIRSVILLE – A new regional tourism brand, Ohio Foothills, has officially launched to market a multi-county area of east-central Ohio as a unified travel destination, showcasing the region’s rolling landscapes, rich history, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm.
The Ohio Foothills region encompasses ten counties in Appalachian Ohio: Belmont, Carroll, Columbiana, Coshocton, Guernsey, Harrison, Holmes, Jefferson, Muskingum, and Tuscarawas. Through a shared vision to increase visitor awareness, encourage longer stays, and strengthen tourism-driven economic development, the Ohio Foothills project was made possible through grant funding from the Governor’s Office of Appalachia (GOA) and the Ohio Mid-Eastern Governments Association (OMEGA).
Guided by a shared mission, Ohio Foothills connects travelers and new residents to a region where small towns tell big stories, inviting people to wander freely, experience authentic local life, and plant roots in a place that feels like home. The initiative envisions the Ohio Appalachian foothills as a vibrant, welcoming destination known for its rich history and strong sense of community, drawing families, innovators, and trailblazers to explore, contribute, and build lasting roots.
The Ohio Foothills brand will be used across digital marketing, social media, storytelling campaigns, and visitor-facing materials to highlight the region’s heritage attractions, outdoor adventures, local dining, and authentic Appalachian experiences.
“This new brand allows us to tell a cohesive story about our region,” said Diane Lautenschleger, project lead and Partnership Development at the Tuscarawas County Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Over the past three years, tourism professionals have worked collaboratively to create a unified brand that serves both visitors and residents. By working together, we can better compete in Ohio’s tourism marketplace while positioning tourism as a powerful economic driver through attracting visitors, talent, and investment by showcasing the exceptional quality of place and quality of life found here.”
“Tourism is a key driver of economic growth for our region, supporting local businesses, jobs, and community revitalization,” said Dr. Vicki King-Maple, Executive Director of OMEGA. “The Ohio Foothills brand reflects strong collaboration across county lines and positions the region as an accessible, welcoming destination. OMEGA’s investment underscores our commitment to regional strategies that enhance quality of place, attract visitors, and strengthen local economies throughout Mid-Eastern Ohio.”
The Ohio Foothills brand will launch throughout 2026 with coordinated marketing efforts targeting both in-state and regional travelers. To learn more about the Ohio Foothills region, visit https://visitohiofoothills.com/ .
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