Bradford Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Bradford is a village located in Darke and Miami counties in Ohio. Listed below are the best attractions and things to do in Bradford.
1. Bradford Ohio Railroad Museum
RAILROAD HISTORY | BRADFORD OH
The Bradford Ohio Railroad Museum showcases the town's rich railroad heritage through interactive exhibits and authentic artifacts. Visitors can explore three levels of displays featuring photos, videos, and memorabilia that highlight Bradford's importance as a bustling railroad junction in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum includes the restored Pennsylvania Railroad "BF" Tower, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Special events and educational programs are offered throughout the year, providing a comprehensive look at the impact of railroads on the region.
2. Twenty One Barrels Cidery & Winery
LOCAL BEVERAGES | BRADFORD OH
Twenty One Barrels Cidery & Winery offers a unique tasting experience featuring handcrafted hard ciders and wines. The rustic tasting room and outdoor seating area provide a relaxing atmosphere for enjoying their beverages and light snacks. All products are crafted on-site using locally sourced fruits and ingredients. Visitors can participate in tastings, tours, and special events throughout the year.
3. Stillwater Prairie Reserve
OUTDOOR RECREATION | COVINGTON OH
Stillwater Prairie Reserve offers 309 acres of diverse ecosystems for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. The park features 5.69 miles of trails suitable for hiking and cross-country skiing through fields, woodlands, and marshy habitats. Visitors can enjoy fishing in the Stillwater River and man-made ponds, as well as picnicking in one of two reservable shelters. A suspension bridge connects the main park to the Maple Ridge area, providing additional exploration opportunities.
4. Bradford Pumpkin Show
ANNUAL FESTIVAL | BRADFORD OH
The Bradford Pumpkin Show is an annual fall festival that has been a community tradition since 1929. This five-day event features parades, carnival rides, live entertainment, food vendors, and pumpkin-themed contests. The festival transforms the streets of Bradford into a lively celebration of autumn and local culture. Visitors can enjoy a variety of pumpkin-inspired treats, crafts, and activities throughout the event.
5. Bear's Mill
HISTORIC GRIST MILL | GREENVILLE OH
Bear's Mill is a historic water-powered flour mill built in 1849, offering a glimpse into Ohio's industrial past. Visitors can take self-guided tours of the mill, observe grinding demonstrations, and learn about the milling process using original French buhr stones. The mill complex includes an art gallery, gift shop, and scenic nature trails along Greenville Creek. Special events and educational programs are held throughout the year, celebrating local history and artisanal crafts.
6. Garst Museum
LOCAL HISTORY | GREENVILLE OH
The Garst Museum offers a comprehensive look at Darke County's rich history through its extensive collection of over 300,000 artifacts. Exhibits cover topics such as Annie Oakley, Lowell Thomas, and the Treaty of Greene Ville, providing insight into the area's Native American heritage and pioneer life. The museum complex spans 35,000 square feet, featuring multiple galleries and interactive displays. Special events and educational programs are offered throughout the year, making it a hub for local history enthusiasts.
7. Brumbaugh Fruit & Fun Farm
FAMILY ACTIVITIES | ARCANUM OH
Brumbaugh Fruit & Fun Farm offers seasonal family-friendly activities and agricultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy apple picking, a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and hayrides during the fall season. The farm features a country store selling fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts. Educational tours and special events are available, providing insight into local farming practices and seasonal crops.
8. Darke County Park District
NATURE PRESERVES | GREENVILLE OH
The Darke County Park District manages several parks and nature preserves near Bradford, offering diverse outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and educational programs at locations like Shawnee Prairie Preserve and Nature Center. The parks showcase the natural beauty of the region, including prairies, woodlands, and wetlands. Special events and guided nature walks are offered throughout the year, catering to nature enthusiasts of all ages.
9. The Bistro Off Broadway
UPSCALE DINING | GREENVILLE OH
The Bistro Off Broadway provides a fine dining experience in nearby Greenville, offering a diverse menu of contemporary American cuisine. The restaurant features steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes made with locally sourced ingredients when possible. Its warm atmosphere and attentive service make it a popular choice for special occasions and romantic dinners. The Bistro also offers a carefully curated wine list and craft cocktails to complement their culinary offerings.
10. Prairie Ridge Park
HISTORIC SITE | GREENVILLE OH
Prairie Ridge Park celebrates the signing of the Treaty of Greene Ville, which brought peace between the Shawnee people and Ohio settlers. The park features a recreated Native American Peace Council House and ancient oak trees that were present during the historic treaty signing. Visitors can explore a hillside seeded with 100 varieties of native grasses and wildflowers, recreating a prairie ecosystem. Educational signage and walking paths provide insight into the area's natural and cultural history.
11. Routzong Preserve
NATURE TRAILS | GREENVILLE OH
Routzong Preserve is Darke County's largest park, spanning 118 acres of diverse natural habitats. The preserve features 2.25 miles of trails, observation towers, and a nature center with educational exhibits and programs. Visitors can explore woodlands, wetlands, and prairies while learning about local flora and fauna. The site includes the historic location of Prophetstown, a Shawnee village founded by Tecumseh's brother, adding cultural significance to its natural beauty.
12. Tecumseh Point
HISTORIC LANDMARK | GREENVILLE OH
Tecumseh Point is a historic landmark commemorating the famous Shawnee leader Tecumseh and his interactions with early Ohio settlers. The site offers interpretive signage and scenic views, providing insight into the region's Native American history. Visitors can learn about Tecumseh's life, his efforts to unite Native American tribes, and his role in shaping the area's history. The peaceful setting invites reflection on the complex relationships between Native Americans and European settlers during the early 19th century.