NORTHEAST OHIO
Polk 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 scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing in the Clear Fork River, and camping amidst lush forests. The park is renowned for its breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities for all seasons.
2. Malabar Farm State Park
HISTORIC FARM & PARK | LUCAS OH
Malabar Farm State Park preserves the former home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield. This working farm offers guided tours of the Big House, hiking trails, and educational programs about sustainable agriculture. Visitors can explore the scenic grounds, attend seasonal events, and learn about Ohio's agricultural heritage.
3. Ohio Bird Sanctuary
WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTER | MANSFIELD OH
Ohio Bird Sanctuary is a haven for native and rehabilitated birds. Visitors can observe various species up close in outdoor aviaries and along nature trails. The sanctuary offers educational programs, bird encounters, and hiking opportunities, making it a perfect destination for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
4. Pleasant Hill Lake Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA | PERRYSVILLE OH
Pleasant Hill Lake Park is a picturesque recreational area offering a variety of water activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and camping along the shores of the 850-acre lake. The park features scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
5. Kingwood Center Gardens
HISTORIC ESTATE & GARDENS | MANSFIELD OH
Kingwood Center Gardens is a stunning 47-acre former estate featuring meticulously landscaped gardens and a historic mansion. Visitors can explore themed gardens, greenhouse displays, and nature trails. The center offers educational programs, seasonal events, and guided tours, providing a beautiful backdrop for horticultural enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
6. Mansfield Reformatory Preservation Society
HISTORIC PRISON TOURS | MANSFIELD OH
Mansfield Reformatory Preservation Society offers tours of the historic Ohio State Reformatory. This imposing Gothic-style prison, featured in films like "The Shawshank Redemption," provides a fascinating glimpse into prison history. Visitors can explore the cellblocks, learn about famous inmates, and even participate in paranormal investigations.
7. Ashland County Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | ASHLAND OH
Ashland County Historical Society preserves and showcases the rich history of Ashland County. Visitors can explore multiple historic buildings, including the Manor House and Noonan House, filled with period furnishings and artifacts. The society offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events that bring local history to life.
8. Richland Carrousel Park
HISTORIC CAROUSEL RIDE | MANSFIELD OH
Richland Carrousel Park features the first new, hand-carved carousel built and operated in the United States since the 1930s. Visitors can enjoy rides on beautifully crafted wooden animals, listen to organ music, and explore the gift shop. The park hosts special events and offers a nostalgic experience for all ages.
9. Loudonville Canoe Livery
RIVER ADVENTURES | LOUDONVILLE OH
Loudonville Canoe Livery offers exciting river adventures on the Mohican River. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and tubing trips of various lengths. The livery provides equipment rentals, transportation, and guidance for a fun-filled day on the water, perfect for families, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts.
10. Ashland BalloonFest
ANNUAL HOT AIR FESTIVAL | ASHLAND OH
Ashland BalloonFest is an annual hot air balloon festival held in Freer Field. This colorful event features balloon launches, night glows, and balloon competitions. Visitors can enjoy live entertainment, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. The festival offers a unique opportunity to see dozens of hot air balloons in flight.
Polk Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN POLK
Polk, Ohio, is a charming small town nestled in the heart of Ashland County, offering visitors a taste of rural Midwest charm and easy access to a variety of attractions. While the town itself is quaint, its strategic location puts it within reach of numerous outdoor recreational areas, historical sites, and family-friendly destinations that showcase the natural beauty and rich heritage of Northeast Ohio.
One of the main draws for visitors to the Polk area is the abundance of outdoor activities available in nearby state parks and nature preserves. Mohican State Park, located just a short drive away, is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering miles of hiking trails, scenic river views, and opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife observation. Similarly, Pleasant Hill Lake Park provides a beautiful setting for water-based activities, including boating, swimming, and fishing.
History buffs will appreciate the area's commitment to preserving its past. The Malabar Farm State Park, once home to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield, offers a unique blend of agricultural history and natural beauty. Visitors can tour the historic Big House, explore the working farm, and learn about sustainable farming practices. The Ashland County Historical Society provides further insights into the region's rich history through its preserved buildings and artifacts.
For those seeking more diverse entertainment options, nearby cities like Mansfield offer attractions such as the Richland Carrousel Park and the Ohio State Reformatory, famous for its role in "The Shawshank Redemption." The annual Ashland BalloonFest is a highlight of the summer season, drawing visitors from across the region to witness the spectacle of hot air balloons filling the sky. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, historical exploration, or family-friendly fun, the Polk area serves as an excellent base for experiencing the best of what Northeast Ohio has to offer.