CENTRAL OHIO
Gratiot Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve
SCENIC HIKING TRAILS | NEWARK OH
Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve offers visitors a unique glimpse into Ohio's geological past. This 956-acre preserve features a narrow, east-west gorge cut by the Licking River through the Black Hand sandstone formation. Hikers can explore four miles of trails, including a paved bike path, while enjoying scenic cliffs, diverse flora, and rich history.
2. Legend Valley
OUTDOOR CONCERT VENUE | THORNVILLE OH
Legend Valley is a renowned outdoor music venue with a rich history of hosting legendary performers. This 230-acre concert grounds has been a staple of the Ohio music scene since the 1970s. With its natural amphitheater setting, Legend Valley offers a unique concert experience, accommodating up to 20,000 fans for various music festivals and events throughout the year.
3. Buckeye Lake State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION | MILLERSPORT OH
Buckeye Lake State Park surrounds Ohio's oldest state park, offering a variety of outdoor recreational activities. The 3,100-acre lake provides excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and bird watching along the shoreline. The park also features a beach, campgrounds, and several historic sites, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
4. The Dawes Arboretum
BOTANICAL GARDENS | NEWARK OH
The Dawes Arboretum is a 2,000-acre tree museum and horticultural center. Founded in 1929, it showcases a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and other plants from around the world. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, themed gardens, and a four-mile auto tour. The arboretum also offers educational programs, seasonal events, and a visitor center with interactive exhibits.
5. The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology
INTERACTIVE MUSEUM | NEWARK OH
The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology is a hands-on learning center housed in a restored 19th-century factory complex. This unique museum features interactive exhibits on local history, art galleries, and a glass studio. Visitors can explore the history of Licking County, engage with science and technology displays, and enjoy live glassblowing demonstrations.
6. Newark Earthworks
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN SITE | HEATH OH
Newark Earthworks is the largest set of geometric earthen enclosures in the world, built by the ancient Indigenous peoples of the Americas. This National Historic Landmark consists of three sections: the Great Circle Earthworks, the Octagon Earthworks, and the Wright Earthworks. Visitors can explore these massive earthen structures, learn about their astronomical alignments, and discover the rich cultural heritage of Ohio's ancient inhabitants.
7. Buckeye Lake Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS | BUCKEYE LAKE OH
Buckeye Lake Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of Buckeye Lake and its surrounding communities. Housed in a former interurban railway station, the museum features exhibits on the area's Native American heritage, the construction of the lake, and its evolution as a popular resort destination. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring local history to life.
8. Licking County Historic Jail
HISTORIC SITE & TOURS | NEWARK OH
The Licking County Historic Jail, built in 1889, offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century prison life. This imposing Romanesque-style building features unique architecture and historical exhibits. Guided tours take visitors through the jail's cells, gallows, and sheriff's residence, providing insight into the criminal justice system of the past and the lives of both inmates and staff.
9. Lynd Fruit Farm
ORCHARD & FARM MARKET | PATASKALA OH
Lynd Fruit Farm is a family-owned orchard and farm market offering a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Visitors can enjoy pick-your-own apples in the fall, explore the corn maze, and shop for fresh produce and homemade goods at the market. The farm also hosts seasonal events, including hayrides and pumpkin picking, making it a popular destination for families and food enthusiasts.
10. Ye Olde Mill - Velvet Ice Cream Factory
ICE CREAM FACTORY TOURS | UTICA OH
Ye Olde Mill, home to Velvet Ice Cream, offers visitors a delightful ice cream experience. This historic mill, dating back to 1817, houses an ice cream museum, a viewing gallery overlooking the production floor, and a restaurant serving Velvet's famous ice cream. Guests can take guided tours, learn about ice cream making, and enjoy the picturesque grounds featuring a pond and nature trails.
Gratiot Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN GRATIOT
Gratiot, Ohio, is a small village nestled in Licking County, known for its rich history and charming rural atmosphere. Despite its size, Gratiot offers visitors a glimpse into the heart of small-town America, with a blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The village, named after Charles Gratiot, was platted in 1829 and has since maintained its quaint character, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful retreat or a taste of Ohio's countryside.
One of Gratiot's most notable features is its proximity to natural attractions. The nearby Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve, located just a short drive away, offers visitors a chance to explore 956 acres of stunning landscapes. This preserve is famous for its sandstone cliffs, scenic hiking trails, and rich geological history, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
For those interested in local history, Gratiot and its surrounding areas offer several points of interest. The village itself, with its historic buildings and small-town charm, provides a window into 19th-century rural life. Additionally, the nearby city of Newark, part of the same county, hosts The Works: Ohio Center for History, Art & Technology, where visitors can learn about the region's industrial heritage and scientific advancements through interactive exhibits.
While Gratiot may not boast large-scale attractions, its appeal lies in its simplicity and connection to nature. The village serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Licking County area, including attractions like the Dawes Arboretum in Newark, which showcases thousands of plant species across its expansive grounds. For those seeking a quiet getaway or a chance to experience the tranquil beauty of rural Ohio, Gratiot offers a unique and authentic small-town experience, complete with friendly locals and picturesque landscapes.