CENTRAL OHIO
Tarlton Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Tarlton Cross Mound
ANCIENT EARTHWORK SITE | TARLTON OH
Tarlton Cross Mound is a mysterious ancient earthwork shaped like a 90-foot plus sign. Located in Cross Mound Park, this archaeological site attracts visitors interested in Native American history and prehistoric cultures. The mound offers a unique glimpse into the region's ancient past and serves as a focal point for local heritage tourism.
2. Tarlton Town Tavern
LOCAL BAR & RESTAURANT | TARLTON OH
Tarlton Town Tavern is a beloved local establishment known for its laid-back atmosphere and community spirit. This popular spot offers cold beer, delicious food, and regular live music events. Visitors and locals alike flock to the tavern to experience its friendly service and enjoy a taste of small-town Ohio charm.
3. Cross Mound Park
HISTORIC PARK & BRIDGE | STOUTSVILLE OH
Cross Mound Park is home to the famous Tarlton Cross Mound and offers a peaceful setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features scenic walking trails, picnic areas, and a picturesque CCC-era concrete suspension bridge. Visitors can explore the ancient earthwork, enjoy nature, and learn about the area's rich prehistoric heritage in this tranquil setting.
4. Hocking Hills State Park
NATURAL WONDER & RECREATION | LOGAN OH
Hocking Hills State Park is a stunning natural wonderland known for its breathtaking rock formations and lush forests. Located near Logan, about 20 miles from Tarlton, the park offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, rock climbing, and camping. Popular attractions within the park include Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave.
5. Circleville Pumpkin Show
ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL | CIRCLEVILLE OH
The Circleville Pumpkin Show is Ohio's oldest and largest festival, drawing over 400,000 visitors annually. Held in nearby Circleville, this four-day event celebrates all things pumpkin with parades, contests, live entertainment, and a vast array of pumpkin-themed foods and products. The festival showcases the region's agricultural heritage and community spirit.
6. Pickaway County Historical Society Museums
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS | CIRCLEVILLE OH
The Pickaway County Historical Society Museums offer a fascinating journey through the area's rich history. Located in Circleville, these museums showcase artifacts, photographs, and exhibits detailing the county's development from prehistoric times to the present. Visitors can explore the region's Native American heritage, pioneer life, and agricultural traditions.
7. A.W. Marion State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA | CIRCLEVILLE OH
A.W. Marion State Park is a scenic outdoor destination centered around the 145-acre Hargus Lake. The park offers a variety of recreational activities including fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking. With its serene setting and well-maintained facilities, it's a popular spot for both day trips and overnight camping adventures in the heart of Ohio.
8. Slate Run Metro Park and Living Historical Farm
NATURE & LIVING HISTORY | CANAL WINCHESTER OH
Slate Run Metro Park and Living Historical Farm offers visitors a unique blend of nature and history. The park features diverse habitats including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, perfect for hiking and wildlife observation. The living historical farm recreates 1880s rural life, complete with period-costumed interpreters, heritage livestock breeds, and authentic 19th-century farming practices.
9. Manchester Hill Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING | CIRCLEVILLE OH
Manchester Hill Winery is a charming local vineyard and winery located just outside Circleville. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings featuring a variety of locally produced wines, including reds, whites, and fruit wines. The winery's picturesque setting, with its rolling hills and scenic views, provides a perfect backdrop for relaxing afternoons and special events.
10. Ted Lewis Museum
JAZZ HISTORY MUSEUM | CIRCLEVILLE OH
The Ted Lewis Museum celebrates the life and career of the famous jazz musician and entertainer Ted Lewis. Located in Circleville, Lewis's hometown, the museum houses an extensive collection of memorabilia, including instruments, recordings, and personal items. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and learn about the impact of this influential figure on early 20th-century American popular music.
Tarlton Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN TARLTON
Tarlton, Ohio, a small village in Pickaway County, is most known for its rich history and natural beauty. The centerpiece of Tarlton's attractions is the Tarlton Cross Mound, an ancient earthwork shaped like a 90-foot plus sign. This mysterious archaeological site, located in a Fairfield County Park, draws visitors interested in Native American history and prehistoric cultures.
One of the most popular attractions in Tarlton is the Tarlton Town Tavern, a local gem known for its laid-back atmosphere, cold beer, and delicious food. Visitors and locals alike flock to this establishment for its friendly service and regular live music events, making it a must-visit spot for those looking to experience the town's community spirit.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate Tarlton's proximity to several outdoor attractions. The nearby Hocking Hills State Park offers stunning natural scenery, hiking trails, and unique geological formations. Additionally, Cross Mound Park, where the Tarlton Cross Mound is located, provides a peaceful setting for walks and picnics, complete with a picturesque CCC-era concrete suspension bridge.
For those interested in local history, Tarlton serves as a gateway to exploring the region's past. The nearby city of Circleville, just a short drive away, hosts the famous Circleville Pumpkin Show annually and is home to several historical museums. These include the Pickaway County Historical Society's museums, which offer insights into the area's rich cultural heritage and prehistoric connections.