SOUTHWEST OHIO
ANNUAL COUNTY FAIR | GREENVILLE OH
The Darke County Fairgrounds hosts the Great Darke County Fair, an annual tradition since 1853. Held each August, this 9-day event attracts around 250,000 visitors with music, harness racing, tractor pulls, rides, and more. The fairgrounds are located at 800 Sweitzer Street in Greenville.
HISTORIC GRIST MILL | GREENVILLE OH
Bear's Mill, built in 1849, is a historic water-powered grist mill located along Greenville Creek. This National Historic Site offers tours showcasing original French buhr stones still used for grinding grain. The mill store sells stone-ground flours, local art, and pottery. Surrounding trails provide scenic views.
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | GREENVILLE OH
The Garst Museum in Greenville houses over 300,000 artifacts across 35,000 square feet of exhibit space. Featuring six major venues, it showcases exhibits on Annie Oakley, the Treaty of Greenville, Lowell Thomas, and local history. The museum reopens on February 4, 2025, offering a comprehensive look at Darke County's rich heritage.
NATURE CENTER & TRAILS | GREENVILLE OH
Shawnee Prairie Preserve, the largest park in Darke County, spans 118 acres of diverse habitats. The Nature Center features displays and animal ambassadors, while trails showcase prairie, forest, and wetland ecosystems. Visitors can explore an 18th-century log house and blacksmith shop on select Saturdays from May through September.
DIRT RACING TRACK | NEW WESTON OH
Eldora Speedway, owned by NASCAR champion Tony Stewart, is a half-mile high-banked oval dirt track. Known for thrilling races, it hosts major events like the Dream, Kings Royal, and World 100, attracting over 20,000 spectators. The speedway operates from April through mid-October, offering exciting sprint, late model, and stock car racing.
WINE TASTING & BISTRO | VERSAILLES OH
The Winery at Versailles offers a rustic elegance in rural Darke County. Featuring over 30 wine varieties, the winery provides tastings, bistro-style appetizers, and gourmet pizzas. Visitors can enjoy wine flights, snacks, and a welcoming atmosphere. The winery is open Tuesday through Sunday, with varying hours.
FAMILY FARM EXPERIENCE | ARCANUM OH
Brumbaugh Fruit & Fun Farm offers a complete family farm experience. Visitors can enjoy fresh fruit picking, delicious desserts, and various family-friendly activities. The farm features an Adventure Market, corn maze, and multiple play areas. Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for seniors, and free for children under 3.
HISTORIC BAR & GRILL | ANSONIA OH
The Whistle Stop Bar & Grill, located in downtown Ansonia, has been a local favorite since the late 1800s. Known for its pizzas, sandwiches, and hearty breakfasts, this mom-and-pop restaurant offers great food at reasonable prices. The historic atmosphere and friendly service make it a hidden gem in Darke County.
ANTIQUE FARM MACHINERY SHOW | GREENVILLE OH
Greenville Farm Power of the Past is an annual event showcasing antique farm machinery. Held at the Darke County Fairgrounds from July 10-13, 2025, the event features displays of vintage equipment, tractor pulls, horse events, and a flea market. Admission is $5 for adults, with free entry for children 12 and under.
ANNUAL COMMUNITY FESTIVAL | VERSAILLES OH
The Versailles Poultry Days Festival is an annual celebration of the village's vibrant poultry industry. Held each June, the festival attracts thousands with its famous barbecue chicken dinners, carnival rides, parades, and various competitions. Visitors can enjoy art shows, a 5K run/walk, antique car displays, and family-friendly activities.
Hollansburg, Ohio, a small village in Darke County, offers visitors a glimpse into rural Midwest life. While the village itself may have limited attractions, its proximity to various points of interest in Darke County makes it an ideal base for exploring the region's rich history and agricultural heritage.
One of the most popular attractions near Hollansburg is the Great Darke County Fair, held annually at the Darke County Fairgrounds in Greenville. This nine-day event, dating back to 1853, attracts around 250,000 visitors with its mix of agricultural exhibits, entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Bear's Mill, a historic water-powered grist mill built in 1849, and the Garst Museum in Greenville, which houses exhibits on local history, including displays on Annie Oakley and the Treaty of Greenville. Nature lovers can explore the Shawnee Prairie Preserve, offering 118 acres of diverse habitats and educational programs.
For those seeking more active entertainment, the Eldora Speedway in New Weston provides thrilling dirt track racing events throughout the season. Meanwhile, the Winery at Versailles and local festivals like the Versailles Poultry Days offer a taste of the region's culinary and cultural traditions, making Hollansburg an excellent starting point for experiencing the best of Darke County.