SOUTHEAST OHIO
Bainbridge Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Paint Creek State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION & CAMPING | BAINBRIDGE OHIO
Paint Creek State Park offers diverse outdoor activities on 5,652 acres. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming on the 1,190-acre lake, as well as hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking on scenic trails. The park also features campgrounds, cabins, and picnic areas for nature enthusiasts.
2. Pike Lake State Park
LAKE & FOREST RECREATION | BAINBRIDGE OH
Pike Lake State Park, nestled in the Appalachian foothills, features a serene 13-acre lake surrounded by lush forests. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking on scenic trails. The park offers camping facilities, cabins, and picnic areas, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Highlands Nature Sanctuary
NATURE PRESERVE & HIKING | BAINBRIDGE OH
Highlands Nature Sanctuary protects over 2,600 acres of Appalachian forest and limestone caves. Visitors can explore 16 miles of hiking trails, showcasing stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. The sanctuary offers guided tours, educational programs, and overnight accommodations in restored historic buildings.
4. Bainbridge Dental Museum
UNIQUE HISTORICAL COLLECTION | BAINBRIDGE OH
The Bainbridge Dental Museum houses a fascinating collection of dental artifacts and equipment from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore the evolution of dentistry through vintage dental chairs, tools, and educational displays. This unique museum offers insights into the history of oral healthcare and dental practices.
5. Paxton Theatre
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE | BAINBRIDGE OH
The Paxton Theatre, a historic venue dating back to 1909, hosts live performances and events. This charming theater showcases local talent through plays, musicals, concerts, and comedy shows. With its intimate setting and rich history, the Paxton Theatre offers a unique entertainment experience for visitors and residents alike.
6. Bainbridge Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS | BAINBRIDGE OH
The Bainbridge Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of Bainbridge and surrounding areas. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the region's past. The museum offers insights into local Native American history, early settlers, and the town's development over time.
7. Ohio Artisan Collective
LOCAL ART & CRAFTS | BAINBRIDGE OH
Ohio Artisan Collective showcases the work of local artists and craftspeople in Bainbridge. Visitors can browse and purchase unique handmade items, including pottery, jewelry, paintings, and textiles. The collective supports the local creative community and offers a diverse selection of one-of-a-kind gifts and home decor items.
8. The Country Crust Bakery
AMISH-STYLE BAKED GOODS | BAINBRIDGE OH
The Country Crust Bakery offers a delightful selection of Amish-style baked goods and treats. Visitors can indulge in freshly baked breads, pies, cookies, and pastries made using traditional recipes. The bakery's warm atmosphere and aromatic delights make it a popular stop for locals and tourists seeking authentic, homemade flavors.
9. Rocky Fork State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION | HILLSBORO OH
Rocky Fork State Park, located near Bainbridge, features a 2,080-acre lake and diverse recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and hiking along scenic trails. The park offers camping facilities, picnic areas, and a beach, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
10. Fort Hill State Memorial
ANCIENT EARTHWORKS & HIKING | HILLSBORO OH
Fort Hill State Memorial preserves an ancient hilltop enclosure built by the Hopewell culture. Visitors can explore 1.5 miles of earthworks and hike scenic trails through old-growth forests. The site features a museum with exhibits on Native American history and archaeology, offering insights into Ohio's prehistoric past.
Bainbridge Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN BAINBRIDGE
Bainbridge, Ohio, is a charming small town nestled in the scenic hills of Ross County, known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The area is home to several state parks, including Paint Creek and Pike Lake, which offer visitors a chance to enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, boating, and camping amidst stunning landscapes.
One of Bainbridge's most notable attractions is the Highlands Nature Sanctuary, a vast preserve that protects unique Appalachian ecosystems and provides miles of hiking trails through picturesque forests and rock formations. The town also boasts several cultural and historical sites, such as the Bainbridge Dental Museum and the Paxton Theatre, which showcase the area's rich heritage and provide entertainment for locals and tourists alike.
For those interested in local history, the Bainbridge Historical Society Museum offers a glimpse into the town's past through its collection of artifacts and exhibits. Art enthusiasts can explore the Ohio Artisan Collective, which features works by local artists and craftspeople, while food lovers can indulge in delicious Amish-style baked goods at The Country Crust Bakery.
With its proximity to other attractions like Rocky Fork State Park and Fort Hill State Memorial, Bainbridge serves as an excellent base for exploring the natural and historical wonders of southern Ohio. Whether visitors are seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat in a scenic setting, Bainbridge offers a diverse range of activities and attractions to suit various interests.