SOUTHEAST OHIO
Portsmouth Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Portsmouth Floodwall Murals
HISTORIC OUTDOOR GALLERY | PORTSMOUTH OHIO
The Portsmouth Floodwall Murals span 2,090 feet along Front Street, depicting the city's rich history. Painted by Robert Dafford, these vibrant artworks showcase Portsmouth's past from early civilizations to industrial developments. Visitors can enjoy a free audio tour using the "Portsmouth Murals" app.
2. Shawnee State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION | WEST PORTSMOUTH OH
Shawnee State Park, known as "Ohio's Little Smokies," offers 63,000 acres of natural beauty. With hiking trails, lakes for boating and fishing, and indoor and outdoor pool areas, it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park provides diverse recreational opportunities for visitors year-round.
3. Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center
ART & HISTORY | PORTSMOUTH OH
Located in a 1918 bank building, this museum showcases local and regional art. It features the largest collection of Clarence Holbrook Carter's artwork and over 10,000 Native American artifacts. With free admission, visitors can explore rotating exhibits and permanent collections highlighting Southern Ohio's cultural heritage.
4. Historic Boneyfiddle District
SHOPPING & DINING | PORTSMOUTH OH
The Historic Boneyfiddle District is one of Portsmouth's oldest neighborhoods, featuring renovated buildings and antique shops. Visitors can explore unique stores like Unique Antiques Warehouse and Ghosts in the Attic Antique Mall, offering a glimpse into the city's past through vintage items and collectibles.
5. Raven Rock State Nature Preserve
SCENIC OVERLOOK | PORTSMOUTH OH
Raven Rock State Nature Preserve offers a unique hiking experience with stunning views of the Ohio River Valley. This fragile ecosystem requires a permit for access, which can be obtained online or at the Shawnee State Park Office. The preserve provides a glimpse into the area's natural history.
6. Riverfront Park
SCENIC VIEWS | PORTSMOUTH OH
Riverfront Park offers beautiful views of the Ohio River and the U.S. Grant Bridge. Visitors can enjoy watching barges navigate the river, take scenic walks, or have picnics. The park provides a peaceful setting for relaxation and outdoor activities along Portsmouth's waterfront.
7. Mound Park
HISTORICAL SITE | PORTSMOUTH OH
Mound Park features a horseshoe-shaped Indian burial ground within a beautiful city park. Located on 17th Street and Hutchins, this historical site offers visitors a chance to explore ancient Native American history. The park combines natural beauty with cultural significance, making it a unique attraction.
8. Unique Antiques Warehouse
ANTIQUE SHOPPING | PORTSMOUTH OH
Unique Antiques Warehouse is a treasure trove for antique enthusiasts. With over 45 vendor booths spread across 70,000 square feet, shoppers can find a wide variety of antiques, furniture, collectibles, and crafts. The store's vast inventory and reasonable prices make it a must-visit for collectors.
9. Ghosts in the Attic Antique Mall
VINTAGE SHOPPING | PORTSMOUTH OH
Ghosts in the Attic Antique Mall offers three floors of unique vintage items and collectibles. This expansive store provides an immersive shopping experience for antique lovers, with a diverse range of products spanning different eras. Visitors are sure to find something special among its extensive inventory.
10. Scioto Ribber Restaurant
LOCAL DINING | PORTSMOUTH OH
The Scioto Ribber is renowned for its smoked meats, drawing diners from miles around. Famous for its ribs, chicken, and steak, this local favorite offers a family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant's popularity often leads to busy weekends, so plan accordingly for a taste of Portsmouth's best barbecue.
Portsmouth Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN PORTSMOUTH
Portsmouth, Ohio, a city with a rich history and vibrant present, offers a diverse array of attractions for visitors and residents alike. The iconic Portsmouth Floodwall Murals stand as a testament to the city's past, spanning 2,090 feet along the Ohio River and depicting scenes from early civilizations to industrial developments. These murals, painted by artist Robert Dafford, have become a symbol of Portsmouth's resilience and cultural heritage.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Shawnee State Park, known as "Ohio's Little Smokies," provides 63,000 acres of natural beauty. The park offers hiking trails, lakes for boating and fishing, and both indoor and outdoor recreational areas, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers. The nearby Raven Rock State Nature Preserve offers stunning views of the Ohio River Valley, though access requires a permit due to its fragile ecosystem.
History buffs and art lovers will appreciate the Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center, housed in a 1918 bank building. The museum showcases local and regional art, including the largest collection of works by Portsmouth native Clarence Holbrook Carter. Its "Art of the Ancients" exhibit features over 10,000 Native American artifacts, providing insight into the area's prehistoric past.
The Historic Boneyfiddle District, one of Portsmouth's oldest neighborhoods, is a haven for antique shoppers and history enthusiasts. With its renovated buildings and unique stores like Unique Antiques Warehouse and Ghosts in the Attic Antique Mall, visitors can step back in time while exploring the city's commercial heritage. For those seeking local flavors, the Scioto Ribber Restaurant offers renowned smoked meats, drawing diners from far and wide to experience Portsmouth's culinary delights.