SOUTHEAST OHIO
Wellston Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Buckeye Furnace State Memorial
HISTORIC IRON FURNACE | WELLSTON OHIO
Buckeye Furnace State Memorial preserves a restored 19th-century iron-producing blast furnace. This historic site offers visitors a glimpse into Ohio's industrial past, featuring a reconstructed furnace, casting house, and company store. Explore the grounds to learn about the iron-making process and life in a company town.
2. Lake Alma State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE | WELLSTON OH
Lake Alma State Park offers a serene escape with its 60-acre lake and surrounding forest. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and swimming in the lake's clear waters. The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Wellston Skateland
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ROLLER SKATING | WELLSTON OH
Wellston Skateland provides a fun-filled experience for skaters of all ages. This classic roller rink offers open skating sessions, special events, and birthday party packages. With its smooth skating surface, upbeat music, and friendly atmosphere, Wellston Skateland is a popular spot for family entertainment and exercise.
4. Sylvester Memorial Wellston Public Library
COMMUNITY KNOWLEDGE HUB | WELLSTON OH
Sylvester Memorial Wellston Public Library serves as a vital resource for the community. The library offers a wide selection of books, magazines, and digital materials for all ages. With its comfortable reading areas, computer access, and educational programs, the library provides a welcoming space for learning and exploration.
5. Jackson County Fairgrounds
ANNUAL FAIR & EVENTS | WELLSTON OH
The Jackson County Fairgrounds hosts the popular Jackson County Fair and various community events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, live entertainment, and delicious fair food during the annual fair. The grounds also serve as a venue for concerts, flea markets, and other local gatherings.
6. Rusted Barn
UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE | WELLSTON OH
Rusted Barn offers a charming shopping experience in downtown Wellston. This eclectic store features a diverse selection of home decor, antiques, and handcrafted items. Visitors can browse through rustic furniture, vintage collectibles, and locally made products, making it a perfect spot for finding unique gifts and treasures.
7. Hocking Hills State Park
SCENIC NATURAL WONDERS | LOGAN OH
Hocking Hills State Park, located near Wellston, showcases stunning natural beauty with its deep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and towering cliffs. Visitors can explore popular trails leading to Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave. The park offers diverse recreational activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and camping.
8. Ash Cave
MAJESTIC ROCK SHELTER | SOUTH BLOOMINGVILLE OH
Ash Cave, part of Hocking Hills State Park, features an impressive horseshoe-shaped recess cave measuring 700 feet wide and 100 feet deep. Visitors can walk along a paved trail to reach the cave, where a seasonal waterfall cascades over the rim. The cave's massive size and natural beauty make it a must-see attraction.
9. Rock House
UNIQUE CAVE FORMATION | LAURELVILLE OH
Rock House, another gem in Hocking Hills State Park, is a distinctive cave-like formation carved into a 150-foot-high cliff of Black Hand sandstone. Visitors can explore the 200-foot-long corridor with its window-like openings and cool, cathedral-like atmosphere. The site offers a fascinating glimpse into geological history and Native American heritage.
10. Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve
BREATHTAKING GORGE VIEWS | ROCKBRIDGE OH
Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve boasts some of the most spectacular scenery in Ohio. The preserve features a deep, cool gorge with towering Black Hand sandstone cliffs reaching heights of 200 feet. Visitors can hike the rim trail for panoramic views or explore the gorge trail to experience the lush vegetation and tranquil atmosphere.
Wellston Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN WELLSTON
Wellston, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Jackson County, is a charming small town known for its rich industrial heritage and proximity to stunning natural attractions. Founded in 1873 and named after Charles Wells, a prominent railroad official, Wellston quickly became a hub for coal mining and iron production in the late 19th century. Today, the town preserves its historical legacy while offering visitors a blend of outdoor recreation and cultural experiences.
One of Wellston's most significant attractions is the Buckeye Furnace State Memorial, which stands as a testament to the area's iron-producing past. This restored 19th-century blast furnace provides visitors with a fascinating glimpse into Ohio's industrial history, featuring a reconstructed furnace, casting house, and company store. Nature enthusiasts flock to Lake Alma State Park, a serene 60-acre lake surrounded by lush forests, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, and camping.
While Wellston itself is home to several local attractions, such as the Sylvester Memorial Wellston Public Library and the nostalgic Wellston Skateland, its proximity to the world-renowned Hocking Hills region is a major draw for tourists. Just a short drive from Wellston, visitors can explore the breathtaking landscapes of Hocking Hills State Park, including popular sites like Old Man's Cave, Ash Cave, and Rock House. These natural wonders showcase the area's unique geology, featuring deep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and towering sandstone cliffs.
Wellston's small-town charm is evident in its community events and local businesses. The Jackson County Fairgrounds, located in Wellston, hosts the annual Jackson County Fair, bringing together residents and visitors for agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, and live entertainment. For those seeking unique shopping experiences, the Rusted Barn in downtown Wellston offers an eclectic mix of home decor, antiques, and locally crafted items. With its blend of historical significance, natural beauty, and community spirit, Wellston continues to captivate visitors and maintain its status as a hidden gem in southeastern Ohio.