SOUTHEAST OHIO
Kingston Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Adena Mansion and Gardens
HISTORIC ESTATE & GARDENS | CHILLICOTHE OHIO
Adena Mansion and Gardens is a stunning 2,000-acre estate built in 1807 for Thomas Worthington, Ohio's sixth governor. This National Historic Landmark features a beautifully restored mansion, meticulously maintained gardens, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore the grounds, take guided tours, and learn about early 19th-century Ohio history.
2. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
ANCIENT NATIVE AMERICAN MOUNDS | CHILLICOTHE OH
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park preserves ancient earthworks and mounds built by the Hopewell culture 2,000 years ago. The park encompasses six sites, including Mound City Group, featuring 23 reconstructed mounds. Visitors can explore the museum, walk interpretive trails, and discover the fascinating history of these prehistoric Native American structures.
3. Great Seal State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION & SCENERY | CHILLICOTHE OH
Great Seal State Park offers 1,862 acres of stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Named after the Great Seal of Ohio, the park features rugged hills, scenic overlooks, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, mountain biking, horseback riding, and picnicking while taking in breathtaking views of the Scioto Valley.
4. Ross County Heritage Center
LOCAL HISTORY MUSEUM | CHILLICOTHE OH
Ross County Heritage Center showcases the rich history of Ross County and Chillicothe. Housed in a beautiful 1907 building, the museum features exhibits on Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and local industry. Visitors can explore period rooms, view rotating exhibits, and learn about the area's significant role in Ohio's early statehood.
5. Tecumseh Outdoor Drama
HISTORICAL THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE | CHILLICOTHE OH
Tecumseh Outdoor Drama brings the story of the legendary Shawnee leader to life in a spectacular outdoor amphitheater. This captivating production features a cast of over 100 actors, horses, and pyrotechnics. Visitors can experience the epic tale of Tecumseh's struggle to defend his homeland against westward expansion during the late 1700s.
6. Chillicothe Railroad Museum
VINTAGE TRAIN EXHIBITS | CHILLICOTHE OH
Chillicothe Railroad Museum celebrates the area's rich railroad history with an impressive collection of vintage train equipment. Located in a restored Baltimore & Ohio Railroad freight house, the museum features a restored caboose, model train displays, and railroad memorabilia. Visitors can explore exhibits and learn about the impact of railroads on local development.
7. Highlands Nature Sanctuary
NATURE PRESERVE & HIKING | BAINBRIDGE OH
Highlands Nature Sanctuary is a 2,600-acre nature preserve showcasing the beauty of Appalachian Ohio. Part of the Arc of Appalachia Preserve System, the sanctuary features stunning rock formations, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can explore 16 miles of hiking trails, attend naturalist programs, and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.
8. Naz Vineyard & Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING | KINGSTON OH
Naz Vineyard & Winery is a charming family-owned winery nestled in the rolling hills of Kingston. Offering a variety of handcrafted wines made from locally grown grapes, the winery provides a delightful tasting experience. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tour the vineyard, and relax on the patio while taking in scenic views.
9. David Nickens Heritage Center
AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY | CHILLICOTHE OH
David Nickens Heritage Center preserves and celebrates the rich African American history of Ross County. Named after the first ordained African American minister in Ohio, the center features exhibits on local Black history, culture, and achievements. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays highlighting the contributions of African Americans to the region.
10. Dr. John Harris Dental Museum
UNIQUE DENTAL HISTORY | BAINBRIDGE OH
Dr. John Harris Dental Museum offers a fascinating look into the history of dentistry. Housed in the 1815 home of Dr. John Harris, founder of the first dental school, the museum showcases antique dental equipment and artifacts. Visitors can explore exhibits on early dental practices, view vintage instruments, and learn about the evolution of dental care.
Kingston Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN KINGSTON
Kingston, Ohio, nestled in the heart of Ross County, is a charming village steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. While small in size, Kingston's strategic location places it at the center of a region rich with cultural heritage, outdoor adventures, and historical significance. The village itself offers a glimpse into small-town Americana, with its quaint streets and friendly community atmosphere.
One of Kingston's local gems is the Naz Vineyard & Winery, a family-owned establishment that showcases the area's burgeoning wine industry. Visitors can sample handcrafted wines made from locally grown grapes while enjoying the picturesque views of rolling hills. This winery not only offers a delightful tasting experience but also serves as a testament to the region's agricultural heritage and entrepreneurial spirit.
Just a short drive from Kingston, history enthusiasts can explore the Adena Mansion and Gardens, a National Historic Landmark that once belonged to Ohio's sixth governor, Thomas Worthington. This beautifully preserved 2,000-acre estate offers a window into early 19th-century Ohio life, complete with guided tours and meticulously maintained gardens. Another nearby attraction is the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, which preserves ancient Native American earthworks and mounds, providing visitors with a fascinating look at the area's prehistoric past.
For those seeking outdoor adventures, Great Seal State Park is within easy reach of Kingston. Named after the Great Seal of Ohio, this park boasts over 1,800 acres of stunning natural scenery, including rugged hills and diverse wildlife. Hikers, mountain bikers, and nature lovers can explore miles of trails while taking in breathtaking views of the Scioto Valley. These attractions, along with many others in the surrounding area, make Kingston an ideal base for exploring the rich cultural and natural heritage of south-central Ohio.