Ashley OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ashley, Ohio.
1. Delaware State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Delaware State Park offers visitors a beautiful natural retreat with a 1,300-acre lake and extensive recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and camping at this scenic state park. The park also features hiking trails through woodlands and meadows, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts.
2. Little Brown Jug
HISTORIC HARNESS RACING
The Little Brown Jug is one of harness racing's most prestigious events held annually at the Delaware County Fairgrounds. This historic race attracts thousands of spectators to witness some of the best three-year-old pacers compete for the coveted trophy. The tradition dates back to 1946 and has become an iconic part of Delaware County's cultural heritage.
3. Cardinal Shooting Center
PREMIER SHOOTING FACILITY
Cardinal Shooting Center is a comprehensive shooting sports facility catering to enthusiasts of various shooting disciplines. The center features multiple shooting ranges, trap fields, and sporting clays courses for both recreational and competitive shooters. It regularly hosts major shooting tournaments and offers instruction for all skill levels.
4. Wornstaff Memorial Public Library
HISTORIC COMMUNITY HUB
Wornstaff Memorial Public Library stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of community in the village of Ashley. The one-story brick building showcases late Prairie Style architecture with its low roofline, decorative quoins, and paired brackets along the eaves. This beloved library serves as both a cultural landmark and vital educational resource for the community.
5. The Jug Grill and Patio
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
The Jug Grill and Patio offers a welcoming dining experience for locals and visitors in Ashley. This establishment serves hearty American fare in a casual, family-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its comfortable patio seating and connection to the area's harness racing heritage.
6. DPS Antiques & Collectibles
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNT
DPS Antiques & Collectibles is a charming shop where visitors can browse through an eclectic array of vintage items and memorabilia. The store features everything from furniture and home décor to unique collectibles and nostalgic pieces. Treasure hunters and antique enthusiasts will appreciate the carefully curated selection that reflects the region's rich history.
7. Gallant Farm
LIVING HISTORY FARM
Gallant Farm is a living history farm that recreates rural life during the 1930s and 1940s. Visitors can explore the fully restored farmhouse, barns, and gardens while learning about traditional farming methods and Depression-era rural living. The farm offers regular demonstrations, seasonal events, and educational programs that bring history to life for all ages.
8. Alum Creek State Park
LAKESIDE ADVENTURE DESTINATION
Alum Creek State Park encompasses over 4,600 acres of scenic woodland and a sprawling 3,387-acre reservoir. The park offers one of central Ohio's largest inland beaches along with extensive boating facilities, fishing opportunities, and multi-use trails. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, swimming, and wildlife viewing throughout the diverse natural landscape.
9. Alum Creek Dog Park
CANINE WATER PARADISE
Alum Creek Dog Park provides a specialized recreation area where dogs can roam off-leash in a safe, dedicated environment. The park features separate areas for large and small dogs, along with a unique swimming beach specifically designed for canine enjoyment. Dog owners appreciate the thoughtful amenities including water stations, waste disposal facilities, and shaded rest areas.
10. Blend of Seven Winery
ARTISANAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Blend of Seven Winery offers visitors a warm and inviting atmosphere to enjoy handcrafted wines and eclectic food in central Ohio. The establishment specializes in producing a variety of wines using both traditional methods and innovative techniques. Wine enthusiasts can participate in tastings, enjoy the relaxed setting, and learn about the winemaking process from knowledgeable staff.
11. Ohio Wesleyan University
HISTORIC ACADEMIC CAMPUS
Ohio Wesleyan University features a beautiful campus with stunning architecture dating back to the mid-19th century. Visitors can explore the grounds to admire notable buildings including Gray Chapel with its magnificent pipe organ and Slocum Hall with its distinctive tower. The university's Ross Art Museum houses significant collections and hosts rotating exhibitions open to the public.
12. Delaware County Cultural Arts Center
CREATIVE COMMUNITY HUB
The Delaware County Cultural Arts Center, also known as The Arts Castle, is housed in a historic 1854 Gothic Revival mansion dedicated to nurturing the creative energies of area residents. The center offers a wide range of art classes, workshops, and exhibitions throughout the year for all ages and skill levels. Visitors can admire both the architectural beauty of the building and the diverse artistic works displayed within its walls.
13. Nash House Museum & Cryder Historical Center
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Nash House Museum & Cryder Historical Center preserves and showcases the rich history of Delaware County through exhibits and collections housed in a historic home. Visitors can explore period rooms filled with authentic artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the region's development. The museum offers insights into the lives of prominent local figures and everyday citizens throughout Delaware County's past.
14. Splatterpark Paintball Games
ACTION-PACKED ADVENTURE PLAYGROUND
Splatterpark Paintball Games provides an exhilarating outdoor experience with multiple playing fields designed for different game scenarios. Players can navigate through woods, structures, and specially designed obstacles while engaging in friendly competitive paintball matches. The facility caters to beginners and experienced players alike, offering equipment rental and various game formats.
15. Mid-Ohio Balloon Adventures
SOARING SCENIC FLIGHTS
Mid-Ohio Balloon Adventures offers breathtaking hot air balloon rides over the picturesque landscapes of central Ohio. Passengers experience the tranquility of floating above rolling farmlands, forests, and waterways while enjoying panoramic views of the countryside. Each flight concludes with a traditional champagne toast celebrating the adventure and the centuries-old tradition of ballooning.