West Union OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near West Union, Ohio.
1. The Edge of Appalachia Preserve System
NATURAL WILDERNESS HIKING TRAILS
The Edge of Appalachia Preserve System offers visitors a chance to explore one of Ohio's most biologically diverse natural areas. This sprawling preserve features miles of hiking trails through forests, prairies, and along limestone cliffs with breathtaking views of the Appalachian foothills. Nature enthusiasts can observe rare plant species and abundant wildlife while enjoying the tranquility of this carefully protected ecosystem.
2. Family Traditions Animal Adventure
INTERACTIVE ANIMAL EXPERIENCES
Family Traditions Animal Adventure provides a hands-on experience with a variety of animals in a family-friendly environment. Visitors can interact with both exotic and farm animals while learning about conservation and animal care. This unique attraction offers guided tours and special feeding opportunities that create memorable experiences for guests of all ages.
3. Adams Lake State Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE RECREATION
Adams Lake State Park centers around a beautiful 47-acre lake nestled among the rolling hills of southern Ohio. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking in this peaceful natural setting. The park also features hiking trails through woodlands and meadows that showcase the area's diverse plant and wildlife populations.
4. Miller's Bakery & Furniture
AMISH GOODS AND CRAFTS
Miller's Bakery & Furniture offers an authentic taste of Amish culture through its handcrafted goods and fresh-baked treats. Visitors can browse high-quality, handmade furniture pieces constructed with traditional woodworking techniques that showcase exceptional craftsmanship. The bakery section features homemade breads, pies, cookies, and other delectable items made from scratch using time-honored recipes.
5. William Lafferty Funeral and Carriage Collection
HISTORIC FUNERAL MEMORABILIA
The William Lafferty Funeral and Carriage Collection houses a fascinating array of historical funeral artifacts and vintage horse-drawn carriages. This unique museum preserves the history of 19th and early 20th century funeral practices through its extensive collection of hearses, caskets, embalming tools, and mourning attire. Visitors receive guided tours that provide insightful historical context about funeral customs and the evolution of the funeral industry in rural America.
6. Chalet Nivale Preserve
RARE WILDFLOWER SANCTUARY
Chalet Nivale Preserve protects a pristine natural area known for its exceptional diversity of rare wildflowers and plant species. This 229-acre nature sanctuary features limestone cliffs, springs, and forested ravines that create unique microclimates supporting unusual flora. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails while experiencing one of Ohio's most botanically significant natural areas.
7. Gladys Riley Golden Star Lily Preserve
RARE FLOWER CONSERVATION AREA
The Gladys Riley Golden Star Lily Preserve was established to protect the endangered golden star lily, which grows nowhere else in Ohio. This specialized nature preserve showcases the delicate woodland habitat that supports this rare wildflower along with other native plant species. Visitors can enjoy guided seasonal tours when the golden stars are in bloom, offering a glimpse of one of Ohio's botanical treasures.
8. Blake's Pharmacy & Soda Shop
NOSTALGIC DINER EXPERIENCE
Blake's Pharmacy & Soda Shop combines an old-fashioned pharmacy with a traditional American soda fountain for a charming nostalgic experience. Visitors can enjoy classic diner fare including homemade ice cream, malts, phosphates, and comfort food served in a vintage setting with original fixtures. The establishment has served the community for generations, maintaining its authentic character while providing both practical pharmacy services and delightful treats.
9. Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve
RARE PRAIRIE ECOSYSTEM
Chaparral Prairie State Nature Preserve protects one of the last remaining prairie ecosystems in Ohio, featuring rare plant communities adapted to the region's unique geology. Visitors can explore trails through this specialized habitat, observing dozens of prairie wildflower species and grassland birds in their natural environment. The preserve is especially spectacular during summer and fall when colorful prairie flowers reach their peak blooming period.
10. Serpent Mound
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN MONUMENT
Serpent Mound is a prehistoric effigy mound in the shape of an undulating serpent, stretching 1,348 feet across a plateau overlooking Brush Creek Valley. This ancient Native American earthwork is the largest serpent effigy in the world and is believed to have been constructed around 1000 CE by the Fort Ancient culture. Visitors can view the impressive serpent formation from an observation tower, explore the on-site museum, and learn about the astronomical alignments that suggest the mound's possible ceremonial purposes.
11. Mikey's Family Restaurant & Lottery
LOCAL COMFORT FOOD DINING
Mikey's Family Restaurant & Lottery serves as a popular community gathering spot offering hearty American comfort food at affordable prices. The menu features generous portions of homestyle classics like country fried steak, meatloaf, and all-day breakfast options that satisfy hungry locals and travelers alike. This family-owned establishment combines casual dining with the added entertainment of lottery ticket sales, creating a uniquely American small-town dining experience.
12. Moyer's Winery
SCENIC RIVERSIDE WINE TASTING
Moyer's Winery offers a picturesque wine tasting experience overlooking the Ohio River in neighboring Manchester. Visitors can sample a variety of locally produced wines while enjoying panoramic views of the river valley from the winery's scenic patio. The establishment pairs its wines with a full-service restaurant menu featuring dishes designed to complement their house specialties.
13. Meranda-Nixon Winery
FAMILY-OWNED VINEYARD EXPERIENCE
Meranda-Nixon Winery is a family-owned and operated vineyard producing award-winning wines from locally grown grapes. Visitors can tour the vineyard, sample wines in the rustic tasting room, and learn about the wine-making process from the knowledgeable staff. The winery hosts seasonal events including live music, harvest celebrations, and wine pairing dinners that showcase the best of Ohio's growing wine industry.
14. John Rankin House
HISTORIC UNDERGROUND RAILROAD SITE
The John Rankin House stands as one of the most significant Underground Railroad sites in the United States, where Presbyterian minister John Rankin helped more than 2,000 slaves escape to freedom. The historic brick home sits atop a high hill overlooking the Ohio River, where Rankin would display a lantern at night to guide escaping slaves across from Kentucky. Visitors can tour the preserved home, learn about Rankin's abolitionist work, and understand how this location inspired scenes in Harriet Beecher Stowe's influential novel "Uncle Tom's Cabin."
15. Kinkead Ridge Vineyard and Winery
BOUTIQUE WINE PRODUCTION
Kinkead Ridge Vineyard and Winery specializes in producing small-batch, premium wines from European vinifera grape varieties grown in their Ohio River Valley vineyards. The boutique winery has gained recognition for its high-quality Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Viognier wines that showcase the unique terroir of southern Ohio. Visitors can enjoy personalized tastings in an intimate setting while learning about the challenges and rewards of growing fine wine grapes in the Midwest.