Oxford OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oxford, Ohio.
1. Hueston Woods State Park
NATURE'S OUTDOOR PARADISE
Hueston Woods State Park offers 3,000 acres of outdoor recreation with hiking trails, fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. Visitors can explore the 625-acre Acton Lake or hike through one of Ohio's few remaining old-growth forests. The park also features a nature center, golf course, and seasonal activities like cross-country skiing in winter.
2. The Black Covered Bridge
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Black Covered Bridge is a beautifully preserved 19th-century wooden covered bridge spanning Four Mile Creek. Built in 1869, it represents one of the few remaining covered bridges in Butler County and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The surrounding park-like setting offers walking paths and picnic areas for visitors to enjoy the historic structure.
3. William Holmes McGuffey House Museum
EDUCATIONAL HISTORY LANDMARK
The William Holmes McGuffey House Museum preserves the Federal-style home of the renowned educator who created the influential McGuffey Readers while serving as a Miami University professor. The 1833 house showcases period furnishings and artifacts relating to early American education and McGuffey's life. Visitors can tour the historic property to learn about one of America's most significant contributors to literacy and public education.
4. Goggin Ice Center
PREMIER ICE SPORTS VENUE
Goggin Ice Center is Miami University's state-of-the-art ice skating facility featuring two Olympic-sized ice rinks. The center hosts Miami RedHawks hockey games, figure skating competitions, and offers public skating sessions for the community. Its modern amenities include Steve 'Coach' Cady Arena, which provides an exceptional collegiate hockey viewing experience.
5. Hefner Museum of Natural History
FASCINATING SCIENTIFIC DISCOVERIES
The Hefner Museum of Natural History houses an extensive collection of biological specimens, fossils, and interactive exhibits focused on natural science education. Located on Miami University's campus, this free museum showcases diverse ecosystems and wildlife through engaging displays. Visitors can explore everything from local Ohio wildlife to exotic specimens from around the world.
6. Miami University Art Museum
CULTURAL ART TREASURE
The Miami University Art Museum (now known as the Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum) houses more than 17,000 works across five gallery spaces. The museum is situated on three acres of scenic sculpture park grounds, offering both indoor and outdoor art experiences. Admission is free, making this cultural gem accessible to all visitors interested in exploring diverse artistic expressions.
7. Uptown Oxford
CHARMING HISTORIC DISTRICT
Uptown Oxford is the vibrant heart of the community, featuring historic architecture, unique shops, and diverse dining options along brick-paved streets. This walkable district surrounds Miami University's campus and offers everything from boutique shopping to local coffee houses and restaurants. Regular events, including a Saturday farmers market and seasonal festivals, bring additional energy to this already lively college town center.
8. Oxford Farmers Market
LOCAL AGRICULTURAL SHOWCASE
The award-winning Oxford Farmers Market brings together local farmers, artisans, and food producers every Saturday morning in Uptown Oxford. Shoppers can find fresh seasonal produce, locally-raised meats, baked goods, handcrafted items, and prepared foods from the surrounding agricultural region. The market has become a beloved community gathering place that celebrates the area's rich farming heritage and sustainable food practices.
9. Schwab Family Farm Market
FRESH FARM GOODNESS
Schwab Family Farm Market offers visitors a true farm-to-table experience with seasonal produce, homemade baked goods, and specialty food items. This family-owned market showcases the agricultural bounty of the region with items grown and produced on their local farm. Seasonal activities like pick-your-own strawberries and pumpkin patches make this a year-round destination for families.
10. Freedom Summer Memorial
CIVIL RIGHTS HISTORICAL SITE
The Freedom Summer Memorial honors the civil rights workers who trained at Western College (now part of Miami University) before heading to Mississippi to register Black voters in 1964. The memorial features three abstract sculptures representing the three activists who were murdered during that summer—James Chaney, Andrew Goodman, and Michael Schwerner. Located behind Kumler Chapel, this contemplative space commemorates a pivotal moment in the American civil rights movement.
11. National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting
COMMUNICATIONS HISTORY PRESERVED
The National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting is housed in the historic Bethany Relay Station that played a crucial role during World War II and the Cold War. The museum preserves the legacy of America's international broadcasting service with exhibits featuring vintage radios, transmission equipment, and interactive displays. Visitors can learn about the global impact of Voice of America and the evolution of broadcast technology throughout the 20th century.
12. Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum
MONUMENTAL OUTDOOR ART
Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum spans 300+ acres featuring more than 80 monumental outdoor sculptures integrated with the natural landscape. Visitors can drive or walk through the rolling hills to experience contemporary art installations against seasonal backdrops. The park also houses an Ancient Sculpture Museum displaying Greek, Roman, Egyptian, and Etruscan antiquities dating back thousands of years.
13. Robert McCloskey Wonder Works
CHILDREN'S LITERATURE CELEBRATION
The Robert McCloskey Wonder Works celebrates the legacy of Hamilton-born children's author and illustrator Robert McCloskey, creator of beloved classics like 'Make Way for Ducklings.' Beginning May 29, 2025, this interactive museum will be hosted at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum for an 18-month residency. Exhibits showcase McCloskey's artistic process, original illustrations, and the enduring impact of his work on children's literature.
14. Jimco's Pizza
BELOVED LOCAL EATERY
Jimco's Pizza has been serving Oxford residents and Miami University students for decades, establishing itself as a local culinary institution. This family-owned pizzeria specializes in thin-crust pies with homemade sauce and generous toppings that have created loyal customers across generations. Beyond pizza, Jimco's offers subs, pasta dishes, and salads in a casual, welcoming atmosphere that captures the essence of Oxford's college town charm.
15. Oxford Community Arts Center
CREATIVE CULTURAL HUB
The Oxford Community Arts Center occupies a historic building that once housed the Oxford College for Women, creating a perfect blend of history and contemporary culture. The center hosts art exhibitions, performances, classes, and community events in its beautifully preserved spaces including galleries, a ballroom, and theater. Visitors can enjoy changing art displays, take workshops, or attend concerts and theatrical productions throughout the year.