SOUTHEAST OHIO
Chillicothe Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN EARTHWORKS | CHILLICOTHE OHIO
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park preserves ancient Native American earthworks and mounds dating back over 2,000 years. Visitors can explore the Mound City Group, view intricate artifacts in the museum, and learn about the prehistoric Hopewell culture that once flourished in the Ohio River Valley.
2. Adena Mansion and Gardens
HISTORIC GOVERNOR'S ESTATE | CHILLICOTHE OH
Adena Mansion and Gardens was the home of Ohio's sixth governor, Thomas Worthington. The restored 1807 mansion showcases period furnishings and offers tours of the elegant house, formal gardens, and outbuildings. The estate's scenic overlook inspired the Great Seal of Ohio.
3. Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama
EPIC HISTORICAL PERFORMANCE | CHILLICOTHE OH
Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama brings to life the story of the legendary Shawnee leader in a spectacular outdoor production. Held at Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, the show features live horses, battle scenes, and stunning special effects as it portrays Tecumseh's struggle to defend Native American lands.
4. Great Seal State Park
SCENIC HIKING TRAILS | CHILLICOTHE OH
Great Seal State Park offers over 23 miles of scenic hiking trails through forested hills and ridges. The park's rugged landscape inspired Ohio's state seal. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, disc golf, and picnicking while taking in panoramic views of the Scioto Valley.
5. Ross County Heritage Center
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | CHILLICOTHE OH
Ross County Heritage Center preserves and showcases the rich history of Chillicothe and Ross County. The museum complex features exhibits on local Native American cultures, pioneer life, and Chillicothe's role as Ohio's first capital. Visitors can explore historic buildings and view extensive artifact collections.
6. Majestic Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE | CHILLICOTHE OH
The Majestic Theatre is America's oldest continuously operating theater, dating back to 1853. This beautifully restored venue hosts concerts, plays, and other performances throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy shows in a charming historic setting that has welcomed many famous performers over the decades.
7. Pump House Center for the Arts
ART GALLERY & GIFT SHOP | CHILLICOTHE OH
The Pump House Center for the Arts occupies a restored 1883 water pumping station in Yoctangee Park. The Victorian Gothic building now houses rotating art exhibits featuring local and regional artists. Visitors can view diverse artworks and shop for unique gifts in the center's gallery and gift shop.
8. Yoctangee Park
DOWNTOWN RECREATION AREA | CHILLICOTHE OH
Yoctangee Park is a 48-acre green space in downtown Chillicothe offering diverse recreational opportunities. The park features a scenic lake, playgrounds, sports fields, walking paths, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and events in this central community gathering place.
9. Triple Crown Family Fun Center
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX | CHILLICOTHE OH
Triple Crown Family Fun Center offers a variety of family-friendly activities and attractions. Visitors can enjoy go-karts, mini-golf, batting cages, arcade games, and more. The center provides entertainment options for all ages, making it a popular destination for family outings and group events.
10. Old Canal Restaurant
HISTORIC DINING EXPERIENCE | CHILLICOTHE OH
Old Canal Restaurant serves classic American cuisine in a historic building along the former Ohio & Erie Canal. Diners can enjoy hearty meals in a charming atmosphere that celebrates Chillicothe's canal-era heritage. The restaurant offers a unique blend of local history and satisfying comfort food.
Chillicothe Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN CHILLICOTHE
Chillicothe, Ohio, is renowned for its rich Native American history and role as Ohio's first capital. The city's crown jewel is the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, which preserves ancient earthworks and mounds dating back over 2,000 years. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a glimpse into the sophisticated Hopewell culture that once flourished in the region.
Another popular attraction is the Adena Mansion and Gardens, the former home of Ohio's sixth governor, Thomas Worthington. This beautifully restored 1807 estate showcases early 19th-century architecture and landscaping, providing insight into Ohio's early statehood period. The mansion's scenic overlook famously inspired the Great Seal of Ohio.
For history enthusiasts, the Ross County Heritage Center offers a comprehensive look at local history, from prehistoric times to the present. The center's exhibits and artifacts tell the story of Chillicothe's development and its significance in Ohio's history.
Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts flock to Great Seal State Park, which offers miles of scenic hiking trails and panoramic views of the Scioto Valley. The park's rugged landscape, which inspired Ohio's state seal, provides opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. With its blend of historical sites, cultural attractions, and natural beauty, Chillicothe offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors to explore.