Chillicothe OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Chillicothe, Ohio.
1. Adena Mansion and Gardens Historic Site
HISTORIC GOVERNOR'S ESTATE
Adena Mansion and Gardens Historic Site is the restored estate of Ohio's sixth governor, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century life. The elegant mansion features period furnishings and historical exhibits that tell the captivating tales of early Ohio history. Visitors can also explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the estate, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
2. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN MOUNDS
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park preserves ancient earthworks and mounds dating back over 2,000 years. The park showcases the remarkable achievements of the prehistoric Hopewell culture, known for their complex ceremonial earthworks and sophisticated art. Visitors can walk among these ancient structures and learn about the indigenous people who once thrived in the Ohio Valley.
3. Mound City
SACRED BURIAL GROUND
Mound City features a collection of 23 ancient burial mounds enclosed within a square earthen embankment. This sacred site was used by the Hopewell people for funeral ceremonies and contains artifacts that reveal their remarkable craftsmanship and extensive trade networks. The interpretive center provides insights into the archaeological discoveries and cultural significance of these remarkable structures.
4. Scioto Trail State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Scioto Trail State Park offers over 9,000 acres of stunning natural landscape in the Appalachian foothills. The park features numerous hiking trails, fishing lakes, and camping facilities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy throughout the year. Visitors can spot diverse wildlife, explore dense forests, and take in panoramic views of the Scioto River Valley from various lookout points.
5. Yoctangee Park
URBAN RECREATIONAL OASIS
Yoctangee Park serves as Chillicothe's central green space, offering 48 acres of recreational opportunities in the heart of the city. The park features a picturesque lake, playground equipment, sports facilities, and picnic areas for families to enjoy. Special events and festivals are regularly held here, making it a vibrant community gathering place throughout the year.
6. Great Seal State Park
SCENIC HILLTOP VIEWS
Great Seal State Park encompasses 1,862 acres of forested hills depicted on Ohio's state seal. The park's challenging hiking trails lead to breathtaking vistas of the Scioto River Valley and surrounding landscapes. Besides hiking, visitors can enjoy mountain biking, horseback riding, and bird watching in this pristine natural setting.
7. Pump House Center for the Arts
HISTORIC ARTS VENUE
The Pump House Center for the Arts is housed in a beautifully restored 1883 municipal waterworks building near Yoctangee Park. The center showcases rotating exhibits featuring works by local and regional artists across various mediums. Throughout the year, visitors can attend art classes, workshops, and special cultural events in this historic brick structure.
8. The Majestic Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Majestic Theatre is a lovingly preserved 1853 venue that stands as Ohio's oldest continuously operating theater. The elegant interior features ornate details and excellent acoustics, hosting a variety of performances from live music to theatrical productions. This cultural landmark continues to serve as a centerpiece of Chillicothe's arts scene, bringing entertainment to generations of residents and visitors.
9. Ross County Heritage Center
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Ross County Heritage Center preserves and showcases the rich history of Chillicothe and Ross County. The museum houses artifacts, documents, and exhibits that trace the area's development from prehistoric times through its role as Ohio's first capital. Visitors can explore multiple buildings that bring Chillicothe's pioneering past and cultural heritage to life.
10. Grandpa Joe's Candy Shop
NOSTALGIC SWEET TREATS
Grandpa Joe's Candy Shop delights visitors with its old-fashioned charm and extensive selection of nostalgic treats. The fun, colorful shop sells novelty items, hard-to-find candies, and unique sodas that appeal to candy lovers of all ages. Visitors particularly enjoy the shop's famous candy buffet where they can mix and match their favorite sweets.
11. American Vintage Warehouse
ANTIQUE TREASURE TROVE
American Vintage Warehouse offers treasure hunters an impressive collection of antiques, collectibles, and vintage items. The spacious warehouse features carefully curated sections with furniture, home décor, clothing, and unique curiosities from various eras. Shoppers can spend hours exploring the ever-changing inventory that attracts antiquing enthusiasts from across the region.
12. Wheatberry Books
CHARMING INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE
Wheatberry Books is a beloved independent bookstore offering a thoughtfully selected collection of titles in a cozy atmosphere. The shop specializes in works by Ohio authors and books about regional history, alongside popular fiction and non-fiction selections. Regular author events, book clubs, and community gatherings make this more than just a place to buy books—it's a cultural hub for literature lovers.
13. Highlands Nature Sanctuary
PRISTINE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The Highlands Nature Sanctuary, managed by the Arc of Appalachia, encompasses the stunning Rocky Fork Gorge and over 2,000 acres of protected wilderness near Chillicothe. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails that wind through forested landscapes to dramatic rock formations, waterfalls, and ancient caves. Once known as The 7 Caves tourist attraction, the sanctuary now focuses on conservation while still allowing access to some of its most spectacular natural features, including the unique 3 Sisters rock formation.
14. Chillicothe Telephone Mural
ICONIC DOWNTOWN ARTWORK
The Chillicothe Telephone Mural is a captivating public artwork painted in 2006 by muralist Eric Henn. The large-scale painting adorns the side of a downtown building, depicting scenes from the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors often stop to photograph this impressive visual landmark that has become one of Chillicothe's most recognizable attractions.
15. Chillicothe Antique Emporium
THREE-STORY VINTAGE PARADISE
Chillicothe Antique Emporium invites visitors to explore three floors packed with vintage treasures, collectibles, and unique home décor items. The expansive shop features an impressive collection of 30 pinball and video games, adding an interactive element to the antiquing experience. Each visit offers new discoveries as the inventory constantly changes, making it a favorite destination for both serious collectors and casual browsers.