SOUTHEAST OHIO
Buchtel Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Wayne National Forest
OUTDOOR RECREATION & HIKING | NELSONVILLE OH
Wayne National Forest offers over 300 miles of trails for hiking, ATV riding, mountain biking, and horseback riding across nearly a quarter million acres of Appalachian foothills. Visitors can camp, hunt, and fish in this vast outdoor playground located just outside Buchtel, providing a natural escape for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
2. Hocking Hills State Park
SCENIC NATURAL WONDERS | LOGAN OH
Hocking Hills State Park, located about 30 minutes from Buchtel, is renowned for its stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore popular sites like Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave while immersing themselves in the park's breathtaking natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.
3. Burr Oak State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION & CAMPING | GLOUSTER OH
Burr Oak State Park, situated on the shores of Burr Oak Lake, offers a variety of outdoor activities including boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking. The park features a lodge, cabins, and campgrounds for overnight stays, making it a perfect destination for families and nature enthusiasts looking for a peaceful retreat near Buchtel.
4. Stuart's Opera House
HISTORIC PERFORMING ARTS VENUE | NELSONVILLE OH
Stuart's Opera House in nearby Nelsonville is a beautifully restored 1879 theater that hosts live music, theater performances, and community events. This historic venue offers a rich cultural experience, featuring a diverse lineup of local and national acts in an intimate setting that showcases the region's artistic heritage.
5. Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
HISTORIC TRAIN EXCURSIONS | NELSONVILLE OH
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, departing from Nelsonville, offers scenic train rides through the picturesque Hocking River Valley. Passengers can enjoy themed excursions, including holiday trains and robbery reenactments, while experiencing the nostalgia of rail travel and learning about the area's railroad history.
6. Nelsonville Historic Square Arts District
ARTISAN SHOPS & GALLERIES | NELSONVILLE OH
The Nelsonville Historic Square Arts District features a collection of art galleries, studios, and unique shops showcasing local artisans' work. Visitors can explore the charming brick-paved streets, attend the popular Final Fridays art walk, and discover handcrafted pottery, jewelry, and other artistic treasures in this vibrant cultural hub.
7. Hockhocking Adena Bikeway
SCENIC CYCLING & WALKING TRAIL | ATHENS OH
The Hockhocking Adena Bikeway is a 21-mile paved trail connecting Athens to Nelsonville, passing through scenic landscapes along the Hocking River. This popular path offers a safe and enjoyable route for cycling, walking, and jogging, allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty of Southeast Ohio at their own pace.
8. Ohio Glass Museum
GLASSMAKING HISTORY & DEMONSTRATIONS | LANCASTER OH
The Ohio Glass Museum in Lancaster showcases the rich history of glassmaking in the region through exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on experiences. Visitors can watch live glassblowing demonstrations, explore displays of vintage glassware, and even try their hand at creating their own glass art in this unique cultural attraction.
9. John Glenn Astronomy Park
STARGAZING & ASTRONOMY EDUCATION | LOGAN OH
John Glenn Astronomy Park, located in the Hocking Hills region, offers visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the night sky. The park features a large telescope in its observatory and hosts regular stargazing events, providing an educational and awe-inspiring experience for astronomy enthusiasts of all ages.
10. Jack Pine Studio
GLASS BLOWING STUDIO & GALLERY | LOGAN OH
Jack Pine Studio, situated in the Hocking Hills area, is a renowned glass blowing studio and gallery showcasing the work of artist Jack Pine. Visitors can watch live glass blowing demonstrations, browse the gallery of unique glass creations, and even participate in hands-on workshops to create their own glass art pieces.
Buchtel Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN BUCHTEL
Buchtel, Ohio, a small village nestled in Athens County, is primarily known for its rich coal mining history and proximity to stunning natural attractions. While the village itself is quiet, its location in the heart of Southeast Ohio's Appalachian region makes it an ideal base for exploring the area's outdoor recreational opportunities and cultural sites.
One of the most popular attractions near Buchtel is the Wayne National Forest, which offers over 300 miles of trails for hiking, ATV riding, and horseback riding. This vast expanse of Appalachian foothills provides visitors with ample opportunities for camping, hunting, and fishing, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Just a short drive away, the renowned Hocking Hills State Park beckons with its breathtaking rock formations, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails.
For those interested in the region's cultural heritage, nearby Nelsonville offers several attractions worth visiting. The historic Stuart's Opera House, a beautifully restored 1879 theater, hosts live music and performances, while the Nelsonville Historic Square Arts District showcases local artisans' work in its galleries and shops. The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway, departing from Nelsonville, provides a nostalgic journey through the picturesque Hocking River Valley.
Nature lovers will also appreciate the proximity of Burr Oak State Park, which offers lakeside recreation and camping opportunities. For those seeking a unique experience, the John Glenn Astronomy Park in the Hocking Hills region provides a chance to explore the wonders of the night sky. These diverse attractions, all within easy reach of Buchtel, make the village an excellent starting point for discovering the natural beauty and cultural richness of Southeast Ohio.