NORTHEAST OHIO
Nankin Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Mohican State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION | LOUDONVILLE OH
Mohican State Park offers a stunning natural escape with over 1,000 acres of diverse landscapes. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing in Clear Fork Gorge, and scenic views of the Mohican River. The park also features camping facilities and opportunities for canoeing and kayaking.
2. Malabar Farm State Park
HISTORIC FARM & NATURE | LUCAS OH
Malabar Farm State Park preserves the former home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield. Visitors can tour the Big House, explore the working farm, and hike scenic trails. The park offers educational programs, hayrides, and seasonal events showcasing sustainable agriculture and conservation.
3. Pleasant Hill Lake Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION | PERRYSVILLE OH
Pleasant Hill Lake Park is a 850-acre reservoir offering diverse outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking along the shoreline trails. The park features campgrounds, picnic areas, and a marina, making it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts.
4. Ohio Bird Sanctuary
WILDLIFE EDUCATION CENTER | MANSFIELD OH
The Ohio Bird Sanctuary is a haven for native and rehabilitated birds. Visitors can observe various species in naturalistic habitats, walk through the songbird aviary, and hike scenic trails. The sanctuary offers educational programs, bird encounters, and opportunities to learn about wildlife conservation.
5. Kingwood Center Gardens
HISTORIC ESTATE & GARDENS | MANSFIELD OH
Kingwood Center Gardens is a 47-acre former estate featuring stunning horticultural displays. Visitors can explore themed gardens, a historic mansion, and greenhouse conservatories. The center offers educational programs, seasonal events, and beautiful landscapes perfect for photography and relaxation.
6. Richland Carrousel Park
HISTORIC CAROUSEL RIDE | MANSFIELD OH
Richland Carrousel Park features the first hand-carved wooden carousel built in the United States since the 1930s. Visitors can enjoy rides on beautifully crafted animals, explore the gift shop, and learn about carousel history. The park hosts special events and is a charming destination for families.
7. Mansfield Memorial Museum
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | MANSFIELD OH
The Mansfield Memorial Museum showcases the rich history of Richland County. Visitors can explore exhibits on local military history, industry, and culture. The museum features unique artifacts, including Elektro the Moto-Man, the world's first humanoid robot, built in Mansfield in 1937.
8. Ohio State Reformatory
HISTORIC PRISON TOURS | MANSFIELD OH
The Ohio State Reformatory, a historic prison turned museum, offers guided tours of its imposing Gothic-style architecture. Visitors can explore cell blocks, learn about prison history, and see filming locations from "The Shawshank Redemption." The site also hosts paranormal investigations and seasonal events.
9. Ashland County Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | ASHLAND OH
The Ashland County Historical Society preserves and showcases the area's rich heritage. Visitors can tour historic buildings, including the Manor House and Noonan House, filled with period furnishings and artifacts. The society offers educational programs and events celebrating local history and culture.
10. Ashland BalloonFest
ANNUAL HOT AIR FESTIVAL | ASHLAND OH
Ashland BalloonFest is an annual hot air balloon festival held in Freer Field. Visitors can witness colorful balloon launches, enjoy night glows, and even take balloon rides. The event features live entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities, drawing crowds from across the region.
Nankin Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN NANKIN
Nankin, Ohio, is a small rural village nestled in Ashland County, known for its peaceful countryside and proximity to various outdoor recreational areas. While the village itself may be small, its surrounding region offers a wealth of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the main draws to the Nankin area is its access to natural beauty and outdoor adventures. Just a short drive away, visitors can explore the stunning Mohican State Park, which offers hiking trails, scenic views, and opportunities for camping, fishing, and canoeing. The nearby Pleasant Hill Lake Park provides additional options for water-based activities and lakeside relaxation.
For those interested in history and culture, the region surrounding Nankin boasts several notable attractions. The Malabar Farm State Park, once home to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield, offers tours of the historic Big House and showcases sustainable farming practices. The Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, famous for its role in "The Shawshank Redemption," provides a fascinating glimpse into prison history and architecture.
While Nankin itself may not have a long list of attractions, its charm lies in its rural setting and proximity to diverse regional offerings. Visitors can use Nankin as a quiet base to explore the natural beauty of Mohican country, delve into local history at nearby museums, or participate in seasonal events like the Ashland BalloonFest. The village's location allows for easy day trips to experience the best of what northeast Ohio has to offer.