Nankin OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Nankin, Ohio.
1. Mohican State Park
NATURAL BEAUTY AND RECREATION
Mohican State Park offers beautiful hiking trails, scenic views, and outdoor recreation opportunities in the heart of Ohio's Mohican country. Visitors can enjoy camping, canoeing, fishing, and exploring the stunning natural landscapes throughout the seasons. The park features impressive hemlock forests, clear streams, and dramatic valleys that showcase the region's diverse ecosystem.
2. Malabar Farm State Park
HISTORIC WORKING FARM
Malabar Farm State Park was once home to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield and showcases sustainable farming practices through guided tours. Visitors can explore the historic Big House, walk through the working farm, and learn about conservation efforts pioneered by Bromfield in the mid-20th century. The farm offers seasonal events, hiking trails, and a glimpse into rural Ohio heritage.
3. Pleasant Hill Lake Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION AREA
Pleasant Hill Lake Park provides a scenic destination for water recreation activities including boating, fishing, and swimming. The park surrounds a beautiful 850-acre reservoir with shoreline trails and picnic areas perfect for family outings. Visitors can rent boats, camp at designated sites, or simply enjoy the tranquil natural setting.
4. Ohio Bird Sanctuary
WILDLIFE AND CONSERVATION
Ohio Bird Sanctuary provides a haven for injured and orphaned native Ohio birds while offering educational programs for visitors. Guests can walk through outdoor aviaries to view rehabilitated birds of prey, raptors, and other native species in naturalized habitats. The sanctuary includes nature trails, interactive displays, and hands-on experiences designed to connect visitors with Ohio's avian wildlife.
5. Kingwood Center Gardens
HISTORIC ESTATE GARDENS
Kingwood Center Gardens encompasses 47 acres of formal gardens, greenhouses, and a historic mansion that was once the estate of industrialist Charles Kelley King. Visitors can stroll through meticulously maintained themed gardens including rose gardens, herb gardens, and seasonal flower displays throughout the year. The center hosts special events, workshops, and exhibits that showcase horticultural excellence and the property's rich history.
6. Richland Carrousel Park
HISTORIC HANDCRAFTED CAROUSEL
Richland Carrousel Park features the first hand-carved wooden carousel built in the United States since the 1930s, with 52 unique animals and characters. Visitors of all ages can enjoy rides on this beautifully crafted merry-go-round that operates year-round in an enclosed pavilion. The park includes a gift shop, concessions, and serves as a centerpiece of downtown Mansfield's revitalization.
7. Masterminds Escape Room and Game Library
INTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT EXPERIENCE
Masterminds Escape Room and Game Library offers immersive puzzle experiences where teams work together to solve clues and escape themed rooms within a time limit. The facility features multiple escape room scenarios with varying difficulty levels, making it suitable for families, friends, or corporate team-building events. Visitors can also enjoy access to an extensive board game library with hundreds of titles for additional entertainment options.
8. Brookside Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA
Brookside Park provides a spacious green space with recreational facilities including playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields for community enjoyment. The park features a picturesque stream running through its grounds, creating a peaceful atmosphere for relaxation and outdoor activities. Visitors can take advantage of walking paths, pavilions for gatherings, and seasonal community events held throughout the year.
9. Grandpa's Cheesebarn
GOURMET FOOD DESTINATION
Grandpa's Cheesebarn offers a vast array of artisanal cheeses, meats, sweets, and specialty foods in a charming rustic setting. Visitors can sample various products, enjoy meals at the on-site cafe, and relax in the outdoor seating area while experiencing this beloved local institution. The establishment also features Sweetie's Chocolates, where handmade confections including their famous praline fudge are crafted daily.
10. Honey Haven Farm
FAMILY-FRIENDLY AGRICULTURAL ATTRACTION
Honey Haven Farm offers seasonal activities including a popular fall festival with corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and hayrides that celebrate agricultural traditions. The working farm provides educational opportunities for visitors to learn about farming practices, honey production, and local agriculture. Guests can shop for farm-fresh products, participate in family-friendly activities, and connect with rural Ohio's agricultural heritage.
11. The Ashland County Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM
The Ashland County Historical Society preserves and shares the rich heritage of Ashland County through exhibits housed in three museum buildings. Visitors can explore collections of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the region's development from pioneer days through the present. The society maintains historic structures including the Manor House, Noonan House, and Freer Children's Home that showcase period furnishings and local history.
12. Audubon Wetlands Preserve
NATURAL ECOSYSTEM SANCTUARY
Audubon Wetlands Preserve protects valuable wetland habitats while providing educational opportunities for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore boardwalks and trails that wind through diverse ecosystems supporting numerous bird species, amphibians, and native plants. The preserve offers wildlife viewing opportunities, photography spots, and a chance to experience Ohio's natural wetland environments in their protected state.
13. Ashland University
ACADEMIC AND CULTURAL HUB
Ashland University welcomes visitors to its beautiful campus featuring distinctive architecture, cultural venues, and athletic facilities. The university hosts public events including theatrical performances, concerts, art exhibitions, and sporting events throughout the academic year. Visitors can explore campus landmarks such as the Chapel, Ashbrook Center, and the Dwight Schar Athletic Complex while experiencing the vibrant student atmosphere.
14. Ashland BalloonFest
COLORFUL AERIAL FESTIVAL
Ashland BalloonFest creates a spectacular visual display with dozens of hot air balloons ascending over the landscape during this annual summer event. Visitors can witness morning and evening balloon launches, enjoy nighttime balloon glows, and even book rides to experience the thrill of hot air ballooning. The festival includes food vendors, entertainment, and family activities that draw thousands of spectators to the region each year.
15. Fin Feather Fur Outfitters
OUTDOOR RECREATION RETAILER
Fin Feather Fur Outfitters provides a comprehensive shopping experience for outdoor enthusiasts with hunting, fishing, camping, and hiking equipment. The expansive store features specialized departments for firearms, archery, clothing, footwear, and other outdoor recreation needs. Visitors can find expert advice from knowledgeable staff, participate in special events, and discover everything needed for adventures in Ohio's natural landscapes.