SOUTHEAST OHIO
Jacksonville Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Lake Hope State Park
SCENIC OUTDOOR RECREATION | MCARTHUR OHIO
Lake Hope State Park offers a serene escape in the heart of Zaleski State Forest. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing in the 120-acre lake, and exploring remnants of the Hope Furnace, a testament to the area's iron-producing past. The park's campground and cabins provide comfortable accommodations for extended stays.
2. Burr Oak State Park
LAKESIDE ADVENTURES | GLOUSTER OH
Burr Oak State Park, centered around the 664-acre Burr Oak Lake, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park offers boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking opportunities. Its scenic beauty is enhanced by forests, meadows, and valleys, making it an ideal spot for nature photography and wildlife observation.
3. Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
HISTORIC TRAIN RIDES | NELSONVILLE OH
Hocking Valley Scenic Railway offers a nostalgic journey through the picturesque Hocking River Valley. Passengers ride in vintage train cars, enjoying scenic views of the Hocking Hills region. Special themed rides, including holiday trains and wine-tasting excursions, add to the railway's charm and appeal.
4. Athens Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE & CRAFTS | ATHENS OH
Athens Farmers Market is a vibrant community gathering place offering fresh, locally-grown produce and handcrafted goods. Open year-round, the market features a diverse array of vendors selling fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and artisanal crafts. It's a perfect spot to experience the region's agricultural bounty and local culture.
5. Strouds Run State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN | ATHENS OH
Strouds Run State Park, centered around Dow Lake, offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, mountain biking, fishing, and non-motorized boating. The park's diverse habitats, including hardwood forests and stream valleys, provide excellent opportunities for nature observation and photography throughout the seasons.
6. The Ridges
HISTORIC ASYLUM GROUNDS | ATHENS OH
The Ridges, formerly the Athens Lunatic Asylum, is a historic landmark with a fascinating past. Now part of Ohio University, the site features walking trails, a nature preserve, and the Kennedy Museum of Art. Guided tours offer insights into the asylum's history, architecture, and its transformation into an educational and cultural center.
7. Ohio University
HISTORIC CAMPUS TOURS | ATHENS OH
Ohio University, founded in 1804, boasts a beautiful campus rich in history and architectural charm. Visitors can take self-guided tours to admire the Georgian-style buildings, lush green spaces, and iconic College Green. The campus also hosts various cultural events, art exhibitions, and performances throughout the year.
8. Dairy Barn Arts Center
CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY | ATHENS OH
The Dairy Barn Arts Center, housed in a renovated dairy barn, is a hub for contemporary art in Southeast Ohio. The center hosts rotating exhibitions featuring regional and national artists, as well as the renowned Quilt National biennial. Visitors can explore diverse art forms and participate in workshops and educational programs.
9. Little Fish Brewing Company
CRAFT BREWERY & TAPROOM | ATHENS OH
Little Fish Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery known for its innovative and sustainable brewing practices. The taproom offers a rotating selection of unique beers, many made with locally-sourced ingredients. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and a relaxed atmosphere in the beer garden, often accompanied by live music and food trucks.
10. Hocking Hills Winery
VINEYARD & TASTING ROOM | LOGAN OH
Hocking Hills Winery offers a delightful wine-tasting experience in the scenic Hocking Hills region. Visitors can sample a variety of locally-produced wines, from dry reds to sweet fruit wines, in the rustic tasting room. The winery's outdoor patio provides a perfect setting for enjoying wine while taking in the beautiful countryside views.
Jacksonville Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN JACKSONVILLE
Jacksonville, Ohio, a small village in Athens County, is surrounded by the natural beauty and rich history of Southeast Ohio. While the village itself is quiet, its location provides easy access to numerous attractions in the surrounding area.
One of the main draws to the Jacksonville area is its proximity to several state parks. Lake Hope State Park and Burr Oak State Park offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature, with activities ranging from hiking and fishing to boating and camping. These parks showcase the region's stunning landscapes and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation year-round.
For those interested in history and culture, nearby Athens is home to Ohio University, one of the oldest public universities in the United States. The campus itself is an attraction, with its beautiful Georgian architecture and the intriguing former Athens Lunatic Asylum, now known as The Ridges. The Dairy Barn Arts Center in Athens is another cultural highlight, featuring contemporary art exhibitions and events.
Food and drink enthusiasts will appreciate the Athens Farmers Market, where local produce and artisanal goods are showcased. The Little Fish Brewing Company and Hocking Hills Winery offer tastings of locally-crafted beverages. These attractions, combined with scenic drives and charming small towns, make the Jacksonville area a hidden gem for visitors seeking a blend of nature, history, and local flavor in Southeast Ohio.