Bentonville OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bentonville, Ohio.
1. Ohio River Scenic Byway
PICTURESQUE RIVER DRIVE
The Ohio River Scenic Byway offers a breathtaking journey along the Ohio River's northern bank, spanning 452 miles with stunning river vistas. This scenic route showcases historic river towns and diverse landscapes where travelers can explore charming communities and cultural sites. The byway provides access to local attractions, scenic overlooks, and glimpses into the region's rich history and natural beauty.
2. Hilltop Golf Course
SCENIC 18-HOLE COURSE
Hilltop Golf Course is a picturesque 18-hole public golf course nestled in the rolling hills of southern Ohio. The course offers challenging play for golfers of all skill levels, with well-maintained fairways and greens surrounded by stunning countryside views. Amenities include a pro shop, golf cart rentals, and a snack bar with a friendly atmosphere and affordable rates.
3. Miller's Bakery & Furniture
UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
Miller's Bakery & Furniture offers visitors a distinctive combination of freshly baked goods and handcrafted furniture. This specialty shop provides a taste of local culture with its unique retail concept that draws both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy delicious baked treats while browsing quality furniture pieces in this charming establishment.
4. EAT Gallery
ART AND GIFTS SHOP
EAT Gallery combines art appreciation with retail therapy as both an art gallery and specialty gift shop. The gallery showcases works from local and regional artists in various mediums, creating a cultural hub for the community. Visitors can purchase unique handcrafted gifts and artwork that represent the creative spirit of the region.
5. Ohio Brush Creek
NATURAL WATERWAY RETREAT
Ohio Brush Creek is a scenic waterway offering outdoor recreation opportunities in the heart of Adams County. The creek provides ideal conditions for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing with its peaceful waters flowing through beautiful natural landscapes. Nature enthusiasts and photographers are drawn to this waterway for its serene environment and diverse wildlife.
6. Edge Of Appalachia Preserve
PRISTINE NATURE CONSERVATION
The Edge of Appalachia Preserve is one of Ohio's largest and most ecologically diverse natural areas spanning thousands of acres. This nature preserve features rare plant species, limestone cliffs, and miles of hiking trails through forests and meadows. Visitors can experience the biological richness of the Appalachian foothills while exploring this protected wilderness area.
7. Adams Lake State Park
RECREATIONAL LAKE PARADISE
Adams Lake State Park centers around a 47-acre lake offering fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features hiking trails through woodlands and open areas where visitors can observe local wildlife and native plant species. Picnic areas and facilities make this an ideal destination for family outings and nature appreciation.
8. Moondoggie Liveree
RIVER ADVENTURE OUTFITTERS
Moondoggie Liveree provides equipment rentals and guided experiences for water adventures on local waterways. This outfitter offers canoes, kayaks, and other equipment needed to explore Ohio Brush Creek and nearby rivers. Their services include transportation arrangements and expert guidance for visitors looking to experience southern Ohio's natural beauty from the water.
9. John Rankin House
HISTORIC UNDERGROUND RAILROAD SITE
The John Rankin House was home to Presbyterian minister and abolitionist Reverend John Rankin who helped over 2,000 slaves escape to freedom. Perched high on a bluff overlooking the Ohio River, the house served as a beacon of hope with its lantern signals guiding escaping slaves to safety. Today, this National Historic Landmark offers tours that tell the compelling story of the Underground Railroad and the brave individuals who risked everything for freedom.
10. Ripley Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Ripley Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of this significant Ohio River town and its surrounding areas. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Ripley's role in American history, particularly during the Underground Railroad era. Visitors gain insight into local culture, industry, and the everyday lives of past residents through thoughtfully curated exhibits.
11. Meranda-Nixon Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Meranda-Nixon Winery produces award-winning wines in the scenic countryside of southern Ohio. The family-owned vineyard offers tastings of their various wine varieties in a charming setting with beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy special events, tours of the vineyards, and a relaxing atmosphere that showcases Ohio's growing reputation for quality winemaking.
12. Murphin Ridge Inn
RUSTIC LUXURY RETREAT
Murphin Ridge Inn offers a peaceful getaway on 142 acres of beautiful countryside at the edge of Appalachia. This charming inn features comfortable accommodations in both the main building and private cabins with amenities that blend rustic charm and modern comfort. Their renowned restaurant serves farm-to-table cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients, making it both a dining destination and a relaxing retreat.
13. Olde Wayside Inn
HISTORIC DINING ESTABLISHMENT
The Olde Wayside Inn is a historic restaurant serving traditional American fare in a building dating back to the early 19th century. This establishment offers a warm, nostalgic atmosphere with its period decor and reputation for home-style cooking that attracts both locals and tourists. The inn represents an important piece of West Union's heritage while continuing to provide quality dining experiences for contemporary visitors.
14. Blake's Pharmacy & Soda Shop
VINTAGE DESSERT DESTINATION
Blake's Pharmacy & Soda Shop combines a functioning pharmacy with a classic American soda fountain experience that takes visitors back in time. The shop serves traditional ice cream treats, malts, and fountain sodas prepared with time-honored methods in a nostalgic setting. This beloved local institution offers both practical services and sweet indulgences, becoming a must-visit attraction for those seeking authentic Americana.
15. John Parker House
FREEDOM FIGHTER'S HOME
The John Parker House was home to John P. Parker, a former slave who became a successful businessman and a key conductor on the Underground Railroad. From this riverside home, Parker conducted daring midnight rescue missions, helping hundreds of enslaved people escape across the Ohio River to freedom. Today, this historic site honors Parker's legacy with exhibits detailing his remarkable life story and his contributions to American history.