SOUTHEAST OHIO
Frankfort Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
ANCIENT EARTHWORKS & ARTIFACTS | CHILLICOTHE OHIO
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park preserves ancient Native American earthworks and mounds. The park features several mound groups, including the famous Mound City Group, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Hopewell people who lived in the area from 200 BCE to 500 CE. Visitors can explore interpretive trails, view artifacts, and learn about this fascinating prehistoric culture.
2. Paint Creek Recreation Trail
SCENIC BIKING & WALKING | FRANKFORT OH
The Paint Creek Recreation Trail offers a picturesque 32-mile paved path connecting Frankfort to other communities. This scenic trail follows the former railroad corridor along Paint Creek, providing opportunities for biking, walking, and jogging. Users can enjoy beautiful natural scenery, including woodlands, farmlands, and creek views, while traversing through charming small towns.
3. Frankfort Sunflower Festival
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION | FRANKFORT OH
The Frankfort Sunflower Festival is a beloved annual event held in July, celebrating the community and its agricultural heritage. This family-friendly festival features a sunflower show, craft vendors, live entertainment, a car show, and various competitions. Visitors can enjoy local food, participate in activities like the 5K run, and experience the warm hospitality of this small Ohio town.
4. Tri-County Triangle Trail
MULTI-USE RECREATIONAL PATH | FRANKFORT OH
The Tri-County Triangle Trail is a 30-mile paved trail connecting Frankfort, Chillicothe, and Washington Court House. This multi-use path offers a safe and scenic route for cyclists, walkers, and joggers to explore the beautiful countryside of south-central Ohio. The trail passes through rural landscapes, historic sites, and provides access to local amenities in each community.
5. Greenlawn Cemetery
HISTORIC BURIAL GROUND | FRANKFORT OH
Greenlawn Cemetery in Frankfort serves as a peaceful final resting place and a window into local history. Established in the 19th century, this historic cemetery features well-maintained grounds, mature trees, and notable grave markers. Visitors can explore the serene setting, pay respects to early settlers and community members, and appreciate the cemetery's role in preserving Frankfort's heritage.
6. Frankfort Dairy Cone
CLASSIC ICE CREAM STAND | FRANKFORT OH
Frankfort Dairy Cone is a beloved local ice cream stand offering a taste of nostalgia and sweet treats. This family-owned establishment has been serving the community for generations with its soft-serve ice cream, sundaes, and other frozen delights. Visitors can enjoy classic flavors, seasonal specialties, and the friendly small-town atmosphere that makes it a local favorite.
7. Adena Mansion and Gardens
HISTORIC ESTATE & GARDENS | CHILLICOTHE OH
Adena Mansion and Gardens, located in nearby Chillicothe, is the restored home of Ohio's sixth governor, Thomas Worthington. This beautiful 2,000-acre estate features a restored 1807 mansion, formal gardens, and scenic grounds. Visitors can tour the historic home, explore the gardens, and learn about early 19th-century life in Ohio through exhibits and living history demonstrations.
8. Ross County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS | CHILLICOTHE OH
The Ross County Historical Society Museum in Chillicothe showcases the rich history of Ross County and south-central Ohio. Housed in a beautiful 1896 building, the museum features exhibits on Native American cultures, pioneer life, Civil War history, and local industries. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that bring the area's past to life.
9. Scioto Trail State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA | CHILLICOTHE OH
Scioto Trail State Park, located in Ross County, offers 218 acres of outdoor recreation opportunities. The park features hiking trails, fishing in several lakes, and scenic picnic areas surrounded by beautiful forests. Visitors can enjoy camping, boating, and wildlife viewing while exploring the park's diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas of the Scioto River Valley.
10. Great Seal State Park
HIKING & SCENIC VIEWS | CHILLICOTHE OH
Great Seal State Park, situated near Chillicothe, boasts 1,862 acres of rugged hills and forests. Named after the Great Seal of Ohio, the park offers challenging hiking trails, mountain biking opportunities, and horseback riding. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Scioto Valley from various overlooks, observe diverse wildlife, and experience the natural beauty that inspired Ohio's state seal.
Frankfort Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN FRANKFORT
Frankfort, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Ross County, is a charming small town steeped in history and natural beauty. While it may not be a bustling metropolis, Frankfort offers visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of south-central Ohio and serves as a gateway to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities.
One of the most significant attractions near Frankfort is the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park. This remarkable site preserves ancient Native American earthworks and mounds, offering visitors a chance to explore the fascinating legacy of the Hopewell people who inhabited the area from 200 BCE to 500 CE. The park's various mound groups, including the famous Mound City Group, provide a tangible connection to this prehistoric culture and offer insight into their complex society.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Frankfort serves as a hub for several scenic trails that showcase the region's natural beauty. The Paint Creek Recreation Trail and the Tri-County Triangle Trail both pass through Frankfort, offering miles of paved paths for biking, walking, and jogging. These trails not only provide recreational opportunities but also connect Frankfort to neighboring communities, allowing visitors to explore the picturesque countryside and small towns of Ross County.
Frankfort is perhaps best known for its annual Sunflower Festival, a beloved community celebration held each July. This family-friendly event brings together locals and visitors alike to enjoy a variety of activities, including a sunflower show, craft vendors, live entertainment, and local food. The festival embodies the warm hospitality and strong sense of community that characterize this small Ohio town, making it a perfect representation of Frankfort's charm and appeal.