Morristown OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Morristown, Ohio.
1. Morristown Historic District
HISTORIC NATIONAL ROAD GEM
The Morristown Historic District offers visitors a captivating journey through time with its beautifully preserved architecture and rich heritage. Visitors can stroll along the charming streets lined with historic buildings that showcase the unique character and stories of this National Register of Historic Places site. The district serves as a window into the past, allowing travelers to connect with local history while enjoying the picturesque small-town atmosphere.
2. Black Horse Inn
HISTORIC NATIONAL ROAD TAVERN
The Black Horse Inn stands as a significant historical landmark along the National Road in Morristown. This well-preserved structure once served as an important stagecoach stop and tavern for travelers journeying along America's first federally-funded highway. Visitors can appreciate the architectural details and historical significance of this building that represents an important piece of early American transportation history.
3. Lady Bend Hill
SCENIC HISTORIC VIEWPOINT
Lady Bend Hill provides visitors with a picturesque vantage point overlooking the historic National Road as it winds through Morristown. This scenic overlook offers a glimpse into the challenges faced by early travelers navigating the hilly terrain of eastern Ohio. The site combines natural beauty with historical significance, making it a perfect stop for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
4. Lynn-Hunkler Memorial Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Lynn-Hunkler Memorial Park serves as the recreational heart of Morristown, offering visitors and residents alike a space for outdoor enjoyment and community gatherings. The park features playground equipment, picnic areas, and open spaces perfect for family outings or peaceful relaxation. Seasonal community events are often held here, providing visitors a chance to experience local culture while enjoying the natural setting.
5. Ghostly Legends & Lore Trail
SPOOKY HISTORICAL TOUR
The Ghostly Legends & Lore Trail invites visitors to explore the supernatural side of Morristown's rich history. This self-guided tour highlights buildings and locations associated with local ghost stories and unexplained phenomena that have been passed down through generations. History and mystery blend together as travelers discover the eerie tales that add another fascinating layer to Morristown's historical narrative.
6. Barkcamp State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Barkcamp State Park offers 1,232 acres of natural beauty featuring woodlands, meadows, and a 117-acre lake perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, hiking trails, camping facilities, and picnic areas throughout the scenic park. The park's diverse ecosystem provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography while its recreational amenities make it ideal for family outings year-round.
7. Underground Railroad Museum
FREEDOM'S HISTORIC PATHWAY
The Underground Railroad Museum preserves and shares the compelling history of the secret network that helped enslaved people escape to freedom. Exhibits feature authentic artifacts, documents, and multimedia presentations that bring to life the courage and determination of both those seeking freedom and those who helped them. The museum offers an educational and moving experience that highlights eastern Ohio's significant role in this important chapter of American history.
8. Dysart Woods
ANCIENT FOREST PRESERVE
Dysart Woods is one of the few remaining old-growth forests in Ohio, featuring massive oak trees estimated to be 300-400 years old. This 50-acre ecological treasure is managed by Ohio University as a living laboratory and nature preserve. Visitors can explore hiking trails through this ancient woodland while experiencing a rare glimpse of what Ohio's forests looked like before European settlement.
9. Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum
ELEGANT HISTORICAL RESIDENCE
The Belmont County Victorian Mansion Museum showcases the opulent lifestyle of wealthy 19th-century residents through its meticulously preserved rooms and authentic period furnishings. This elegant 26-room mansion built in 1893 features ornate woodwork, original stained glass, and an impressive collection of Victorian-era artifacts. Visitors can step back in time through guided tours that highlight the architectural details and daily life in a bygone era.
10. Great Western Schoolhouse
ONE-ROOM EDUCATION HISTORY
The Great Western Schoolhouse is a carefully restored one-room schoolhouse dating back to 1870 that offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century education. Original furnishings, textbooks, and teaching materials help recreate the atmosphere of rural education during America's westward expansion. Seasonal living history programs feature costumed interpreters demonstrating lessons and activities typical of the period.
11. National Road/Zane Grey Museum
TRANSPORTATION HERITAGE CENTER
The National Road/Zane Grey Museum explores the fascinating history of America's first federally funded highway that passed through Morristown and connected the eastern seaboard with frontier settlements. Exhibits include a 136-foot diorama of the historic road, antique vehicles, and artifacts relating to transportation evolution in America. The museum also celebrates famed western novelist Zane Grey, an Ohio native whose works helped shape America's perception of the frontier.
12. Chapz Bar & Grill
LOCAL FLAVOR HOTSPOT
Chapz Bar & Grill serves as a popular gathering place for locals and visitors alike, offering hearty American fare in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Their menu features hand-crafted burgers, homestyle entrees, and regional specialties that showcase flavors of the Ohio Valley. The establishment combines good food with small-town hospitality, making it a must-visit dining spot for travelers passing through Morristown.
13. Morristown Antique Mall
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Morristown Antique Mall houses a diverse collection of vintage items, collectibles, and memorabilia spread throughout its charming historic building. Visitors can browse through multiple vendor booths offering everything from furniture and glassware to toys and jewelry spanning various eras. The mall provides a nostalgic shopping experience perfect for finding unique souvenirs and conversation pieces with connections to local and national history.
14. Dickinson Cattle Co.
TEXAS LONGHORN RANCH
Dickinson Cattle Co. offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience one of America's largest Texas Longhorn ranches through guided tours of their sprawling property. Guests can observe these magnificent animals up close while learning about sustainable ranching practices and the history of this iconic American cattle breed. The ranch also features a country store selling beef products, Western merchandise, and handcrafted items produced on-site.
15. Jamboree In The Hills Site
COUNTRY MUSIC HERITAGE
The Jamboree In The Hills Site represents an important piece of cultural heritage as the former home of one of America's longest-running country music festivals. For over four decades, this venue hosted legendary performers and drew thousands of devoted fans to the rolling hills of eastern Ohio each summer. Though the original festival ended in 2018, the location remains significant for music enthusiasts and continues to host occasional events celebrating the region's strong country music traditions.