SOUTHWEST OHIO
St. Paris Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Kiser Lake State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION & CAMPING | ST. PARIS OHIO
Kiser Lake State Park offers 531 acres of outdoor recreation centered around the 396-acre Kiser Lake. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and camping. The park is unique for its motorboat-free lake, making it ideal for canoes, kayaks, and sailboats. With over 100 campsites and five miles of hiking trails, it's perfect for nature lovers.
2. Davey Woods State Nature Preserve
PRISTINE WOODLAND HIKING | ST. PARIS OH
Davey Woods State Nature Preserve protects 103 acres of mature forest in Champaign County. This woodland features large tulip trees, sugar maples, ash, and oak trees, as well as an impressive array of spring wildflowers. Visitors can explore the 1.5-mile trail system, offering a peaceful hiking experience through one of Ohio's best remaining woodlots.
3. Cedar Bog Nature Preserve
UNIQUE WETLAND ECOSYSTEM | URBANA OH
Cedar Bog Nature Preserve, despite its name, is actually a fen - a rare wetland ecosystem. This 450-acre preserve showcases unique plant and animal species, including over 40% of Ohio's rare species. Visitors can explore the mile-long boardwalk, observing orchids, prairie flowers, and possibly even the endangered spotted turtle in its natural habitat.
4. Lakeland Golf Club
18-HOLE CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE | ST. PARIS OH
Lakeland Golf Club offers an 18-hole championship golf course designed by Barry Serafin. The course features five sets of tees to accommodate golfers of all skill levels. With its strategic bunkers, natural water hazards, and generous fairways, Lakeland provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for both casual players and serious golf enthusiasts.
5. Harmon Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION CENTER | ST. PARIS OH
Harmon Park serves as St. Paris's central community gathering space. The park features a playground, basketball courts, tennis court, and an outdoor shelter for picnics and events. It's also home to a Veterans Walk memorial garden, honoring those who served in the U.S. Military. The park's building is available for rent, making it ideal for local events and gatherings.
6. Coral Lanes
FAMILY-FRIENDLY BOWLING ALLEY | ST. PARIS OH
Coral Lanes is a popular bowling alley in St. Paris, offering family-friendly entertainment. The facility provides a fun atmosphere for bowlers of all ages and skill levels. With multiple lanes, a snack bar, and various bowling leagues and events, Coral Lanes serves as a social hub for the community and a great spot for family outings or friendly competitions.
7. Pony Wagon Town Historical Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS | ST. PARIS OH
The Pony Wagon Town Historical Museum in St. Paris showcases the area's rich history, particularly its connection to pony wagons. The museum features exhibits on local artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of St. Paris and Champaign County. Visitors can learn about the town's industrial past and its significance in the region's development.
8. Champaign Aviation Museum
VINTAGE AIRCRAFT RESTORATION | URBANA OH
The Champaign Aviation Museum, located in nearby Urbana, is dedicated to preserving aviation history. The museum's centerpiece is the ongoing restoration of a B-17 Flying Fortress bomber. Visitors can view vintage military and civilian aircraft, explore exhibits on aviation history, and even witness the restoration process of historic planes.
9. Ohio Caverns
UNDERGROUND WONDER TOURS | WEST LIBERTY OH
Ohio Caverns, located in West Liberty, is Ohio's largest cave system. Known for its crystal-white stalactites and stalagmites, the caverns offer year-round tours at a constant 54°F. Visitors can explore the fascinating underground world, learning about the cave's geology and history while marveling at its natural beauty and unique formations.
10. Mad River Farm Market
FRESH PRODUCE & COUNTRY STORE | ST. PARIS OH
Mad River Farm Market, situated near St. Paris, offers a delightful country shopping experience. The market features fresh, locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, and a variety of country store items. Visitors can enjoy seasonal offerings, pick up farm-fresh eggs, and browse through unique gifts and crafts, supporting local farmers and artisans.
St. Paris Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN ST. PARIS
St. Paris, Ohio, is a charming small town known for its rich agricultural heritage and community spirit. The town's claim to fame is its historical connection to the production of pony wagons, which is celebrated at the Pony Wagon Town Historical Museum. This unique attraction offers visitors a glimpse into the town's industrial past and its significance in regional development.
One of the most popular attractions near St. Paris is Kiser Lake State Park. This 531-acre park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The park's centerpiece, the 396-acre Kiser Lake, is particularly noteworthy for its motorboat-free policy, making it a peaceful haven for canoeists, kayakers, and nature enthusiasts.
For golf enthusiasts, Lakeland Golf Club provides an excellent 18-hole championship course. The course's design caters to players of all skill levels, featuring strategic bunkers and natural water hazards that offer both challenge and enjoyment. Meanwhile, Harmon Park serves as the town's central gathering space, offering recreational facilities and a touching Veterans Walk memorial garden.
St. Paris also serves as a great base for exploring nearby attractions in Champaign County. These include the Cedar Bog Nature Preserve, a unique wetland ecosystem, and the Champaign Aviation Museum in Urbana, which showcases vintage aircraft and aviation history. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, local history, or simply enjoying small-town charm, St. Paris offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to explore.