CENTRAL OHIO
Utica Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Velvet Ice Cream & Ye Olde Mill
HISTORIC ICE CREAM DESTINATION | UTICA OH
Velvet Ice Cream & Ye Olde Mill is Utica's premier attraction, drawing over 150,000 visitors annually. This historic mill, built in 1817, houses an ice cream parlor, restaurant, and museum. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, watch ice cream production, explore the picturesque 20-acre grounds, or indulge in delicious frozen treats.
2. The Mill Street Grains & Gatherings Event Venue and Distillery
UNIQUE EVENT SPACE & DISTILLERY | UTICA OH
The Mill Street Grains & Gatherings Event Venue and Distillery offers a distinctive experience in Utica. This renovated space combines a charming event venue with a working distillery. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about the distilling process, and sample locally crafted spirits while enjoying the historic ambiance of the building.
3. Branstool Orchards
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FRUIT FARM | UTICA OH
Branstool Orchards is a beloved family-owned fruit farm in Utica. Known for its wide variety of apples, peaches, and other fruits, the orchard offers a delightful pick-your-own experience. Visitors can enjoy hayrides, explore the farm market, and participate in seasonal events, making it a perfect destination for family outings.
4. Legend Hills Orchard
SCENIC APPLE ORCHARD | UTICA OH
Legend Hills Orchard is a picturesque apple orchard nestled in the rolling hills of Utica. Offering a variety of apple varieties, the orchard provides a serene setting for fruit picking and nature walks. Visitors can enjoy fresh apple cider, homemade treats from the farm store, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
5. Miller Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION AREA | UTICA OH
Miller Park serves as Utica's central community gathering space. This well-maintained park features playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities, including baseball diamonds and basketball courts. The park hosts various community events throughout the year, providing a perfect spot for families and friends to enjoy outdoor activities and relaxation.
6. Watts Restaurant
CLASSIC AMERICAN DINING | UTICA OH
Watts Restaurant is a beloved local eatery in Utica, known for its homestyle cooking and warm atmosphere. Serving classic American dishes, the restaurant has been a community staple for generations. Diners can enjoy hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, and comforting dinners in a friendly, small-town setting.
7. Utica Old Fashioned Ice Cream Festival
ANNUAL FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT | UTICA OH
The Utica Old Fashioned Ice Cream Festival is a cherished annual event celebrating Utica's ice cream heritage. Held at Ye Olde Mill, this family-friendly festival features ice cream eating contests, live entertainment, craft vendors, and a classic car show. Visitors can indulge in a variety of ice cream flavors while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
8. Ye Olde Mill Fishing Pond
SCENIC FISHING SPOT | UTICA OH
Ye Olde Mill Fishing Pond offers a tranquil fishing experience in Utica. Located on the grounds of Velvet Ice Cream's Ye Olde Mill, this picturesque pond is stocked with various fish species. Visitors can enjoy catch-and-release fishing, picnicking by the water, and the serene natural surroundings.
9. Infirmary Mound Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA | GRANVILLE OH
Infirmary Mound Park is a 326-acre recreational area near Utica in Licking County. The park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a 35-acre lake for fishing and boating. Visitors can explore diverse habitats, including prairies and woodlands, or enjoy the park's equestrian facilities and historic structures.
10. Utica Branch Library
COMMUNITY LEARNING CENTER | UTICA OH
The Utica Branch Library serves as a vital community resource in Utica. Part of the Licking County Library system, it offers a wide selection of books, digital resources, and public computers. The library hosts various programs and events for all ages, including story times for children and book clubs for adults.
Utica Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN UTICA
Utica, Ohio, is most renowned for being the home of Velvet Ice Cream and its historic Ye Olde Mill. This charming village in Licking County offers visitors a unique blend of small-town charm and delightful attractions. Velvet Ice Cream's Ye Olde Mill, originally built in 1817, stands as the centerpiece of Utica's tourism, drawing over 150,000 visitors annually with its ice cream parlor, restaurant, and picturesque 20-acre grounds.
Beyond the sweet allure of Velvet Ice Cream, Utica boasts several other attractions that make it a worthwhile destination. The Mill Street Distillery, known for being the first to legally produce moonshine in Ohio, offers a unique tasting experience for spirit enthusiasts. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Blackhand Gorge State Nature Preserve, which features hiking trails and scenic views of the Licking River valley.
History buffs will appreciate the rich heritage of the area, particularly the nearby Newark Earthworks. These ancient Native American mounds, including the Great Circle Earthworks and Octagon Earthworks, are just a short drive from Utica and offer a fascinating glimpse into the region's prehistoric past. The earthworks have recently been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further cementing their historical and cultural significance.
For those seeking outdoor recreation, Utica is ideally situated near several parks and natural areas. The Dawes Arboretum, located in nearby Newark, offers 2,000 acres of plant collections, gardens, and natural areas to explore. Additionally, the Licking County Trail System provides miles of paved paths for hiking and biking, connecting Utica to neighboring communities and scenic landscapes. Whether indulging in ice cream, exploring historical sites, or enjoying the natural beauty of central Ohio, Utica offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all interests.