SOUTHWEST OHIO
Catawba Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Frank Lloyd Wright's Westcott House
ARCHITECTURAL MARVEL | SPRINGFIELD OH
Frank Lloyd Wright's Westcott House, built in 1908, is the architect's only Prairie style residence in Ohio. Located in Springfield, this beautifully restored home showcases Wright's innovative design principles with its long rooflines, low profile, and extensive pergola connecting the main house to the garage.
2. Buck Creek State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION | SPRINGFIELD OH
Buck Creek State Park offers 4,000 acres of diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating and fishing on the 2,120-acre lake, hiking through prairies and wetlands, or relaxing on the swimming beach. The park also provides camping facilities and cottages for overnight stays.
3. Springfield Museum of Art
CULTURAL ENRICHMENT | SPRINGFIELD OH
The Springfield Museum of Art, founded in 1952, is the only Smithsonian Affiliate art museum in Ohio. With eight galleries, the museum offers a diverse collection of artworks, rotating exhibitions, and educational programs. Visitors can explore both permanent and temporary exhibits showcasing various artistic styles and periods.
4. Hartman Rock Garden
FOLK ART WONDERLAND | SPRINGFIELD OH
Hartman Rock Garden, created by Harry George "Ben" Hartman during the Great Depression, is a unique folk art environment in Springfield. The garden features over fifty stone and concrete structures, including miniature buildings, historical scenes, and whimsical figurines, all crafted from thousands of stones and found objects.
5. National Trail Parks and Recreation District
COMMUNITY PARKS & TRAILS | SPRINGFIELD OH
The National Trail Parks and Recreation District manages over 2,000 acres of parks and nearly 30 miles of multi-use trails in Clark County. Visitors can enjoy various recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and picnicking, while exploring the region's natural beauty and historical significance through diverse programs and facilities.
6. Heritage Center of Clark County
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | SPRINGFIELD OH
The Heritage Center of Clark County, housed in a beautifully restored 1890 Richardsonian Romanesque building, showcases the rich history of Springfield and Clark County. Visitors can explore exhibits, archives, and a research library, learning about the area's past through interactive displays and preserved artifacts.
7. Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve
SCENIC NATURAL WONDER | YELLOW SPRINGS OH
Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, located near Yellow Springs, protects a spectacular limestone and dolomite gorge carved by the Little Miami River. Visitors can hike scenic trails, observe diverse plant life, and enjoy breathtaking views of the river as it rushes through narrow channels and cascades over rock formations.
8. Young's Jersey Dairy
FAMILY FUN & ICE CREAM | YELLOW SPRINGS OH
Young's Jersey Dairy, a family-operated farm and attraction near Yellow Springs, offers visitors a unique blend of agricultural experiences and family entertainment. Guests can enjoy homemade ice cream, interact with farm animals, play miniature golf, and participate in seasonal activities like corn mazes and pumpkin picking.
9. Mother Stewart's Brewing Company
CRAFT BREWERY | SPRINGFIELD OH
Mother Stewart's Brewing Company, located in downtown Springfield, offers a unique craft beer experience in a historic industrial setting. Visitors can sample a variety of locally brewed beers, enjoy live music events, and relax in the spacious taproom or outdoor beer garden while appreciating the brewery's commitment to quality and community.
10. Springfield Antique Center & Flea Market
VINTAGE SHOPPING | SPRINGFIELD OH
The Springfield Antique Center & Flea Market is a treasure trove for antique enthusiasts and bargain hunters. With over 2,000 vendors during special events, visitors can explore a vast array of vintage items, collectibles, and unique finds. The market offers both indoor and outdoor shopping experiences throughout the year.
Catawba Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN CATAWBA
Catawba, Ohio, a small unincorporated community in Clark County, offers visitors a charming rural experience with easy access to nearby attractions. While Catawba itself may not have many notable attractions, its proximity to Springfield and other surrounding areas provides ample opportunities for exploration and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy the serene countryside and take short drives to experience a variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions in Clark County.
One of the most popular nearby attractions is Buck Creek State Park, located just a short distance from Catawba. This expansive park offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking amidst beautiful natural surroundings. The park's 2,120-acre lake and diverse ecosystems provide a perfect backdrop for family picnics, camping trips, and wildlife observation.
For those interested in history and culture, a visit to Springfield is a must. The city boasts several notable attractions, including the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Westcott House, which showcases the architect's iconic Prairie style. The Springfield Museum of Art, the only Smithsonian Affiliate art museum in Ohio, offers a diverse collection of artworks and rotating exhibitions that cater to art enthusiasts of all ages.
Nature lovers will appreciate the proximity to Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve, where they can hike scenic trails and marvel at the limestone gorge carved by the Little Miami River. For a taste of local flavor, visitors can stop by Young's Jersey Dairy near Yellow Springs, enjoying homemade ice cream and family-friendly activities. With its strategic location, Catawba serves as an ideal base for exploring the rich tapestry of attractions that Clark County and its surrounding areas have to offer.