Ironton OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ironton, Ohio.
1. Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area
SCENIC NATURE AND RECREATION
Lake Vesuvius Recreation Area is a popular outdoor destination located minutes from Ironton where visitors can enjoy relaxing walks through trails like the Old Rock House Trail or spend time on the boardwalk. The area is part of the Wayne National Forest's Ironton District which encompasses over 107,000 acres across multiple counties. Visitors can engage in various recreational activities including hiking, fishing, and enjoying the natural beauty of this serene lake setting.
2. Our Lady of Fatima Shrine
SPIRITUAL HISTORIC LANDMARK
Our Lady of Fatima Shrine is a significant religious site in Ironton that attracts both pilgrims and tourists. The shrine offers visitors a peaceful place for reflection and prayer with its devotional statues and religious artifacts. It stands as an important cultural and spiritual landmark in the Ironton community.
3. Lawrence County Museum and Historical Society
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Lawrence County Museum features a permanent collection of local history and rotating exhibits year-round in a restored 1870 Victorian home. Visitors can explore displays of items forging the iron history of the region as well as Victorian-era clothing and furniture. The museum is open from April through November on weekends and hosts special events throughout its operating season.
4. Beechwood Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Beechwood Park is a popular recreational area in Ironton offering community members and visitors alike a place to enjoy outdoor activities. The park features open spaces, playground equipment, and areas for sports and leisure activities. It serves as a gathering place for local events and provides a green space for families to enjoy throughout the year.
5. 9th Street Park
URBAN GREEN SPACE
9th Street Park offers Ironton residents and visitors a convenient urban green space for recreation and relaxation. The park provides amenities for various outdoor activities and serves as a community gathering spot. Its central location makes it easily accessible for those looking to enjoy some time outdoors while in town.
6. Historic Iron Furnaces
INDUSTRIAL HERITAGE MONUMENTS
The historic iron furnaces of Lawrence County stand as monuments to the region's pivotal role in America's Industrial Revolution, once being the heart of the Hanging Rock Iron Region. These structures, including the Vesuvius and Buckhorn Furnaces, produced high-quality pig iron that was used in constructing railroads, bridges, and buildings across the nation. Today, visitors can explore these remnants to gain insight into the county's industrial heritage and the technological innovations of the 19th century.
7. Ironton Farmer's Market
LOCAL PRODUCE AND CRAFTS
The Ironton Farmer's Market is located at Market Square on Second Street in downtown Ironton, operating every Friday and Saturday from May through October. Vendors from Lawrence County and surrounding areas offer fruits, vegetables, honey, soaps, and handmade items each week. The market is organized by Ironton aLive and serves as a vibrant community hub connecting local producers with residents and visitors.
8. Ironton Historic Church Walk
ARCHITECTURAL RELIGIOUS TOUR
The Ironton Historic Church Walk is conducted by the Lawrence County Museum and Historical Society, guiding visitors through the historic churches of downtown Ironton. This walking tour showcases the architectural beauty and historical significance of the community's religious buildings. Participants learn about the cultural and spiritual heritage that shaped Ironton through the stories of these longstanding houses of worship.
9. The Armory Smokehouse
BBQ AND AMERICAN CUISINE
The Armory Smokehouse is a popular dining establishment in Ironton offering American cuisine with a focus on barbecue specialties. The restaurant provides a welcoming atmosphere where patrons can enjoy flavorful smoked meats and traditional sides. Its bar setting adds to the casual, friendly environment that has made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
10. Melini Italian Restaurant
AUTHENTIC ITALIAN DINING
Melini Italian Restaurant is a locally owned establishment that has been serving the Ironton community since the early 2000s with authentic Italian cuisine made from fresh ingredients. The restaurant features a beautiful century-old bar that has been preserved as a breathtaking centerpiece of the dining experience. Visitors can enjoy everything from pasta and pizza to calzones and salads, always accompanied by their delicious bread made fresh daily.
11. Wayne National Forest - Ironton District
VAST OUTDOOR WILDERNESS
The Wayne National Forest's Ironton District encompasses 107,090 acres across Lawrence, Scioto, Gallia, and Jackson counties, offering extensive outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitor information can be obtained from the Ironton Ranger Station located in Pedro, Ohio, just north of Ironton. Nature enthusiasts can explore numerous trails, engage in wildlife viewing, and experience the diverse ecosystems of this protected forest land.
12. The Depot
JAPANESE AND ASIAN CUISINE
The Depot is a well-regarded restaurant in Ironton specializing in Japanese cuisine, sushi, and other Asian dishes. The eatery offers a diverse menu that caters to various tastes, from traditional Japanese fare to fusion creations. Its distinctive atmosphere and quality food make it a standout dining option in the Ironton area.
13. Dragonfly Outdoor Adventures
GUIDED NATURE EXCURSIONS
Dragonfly Outdoor Adventures provides guided outdoor experiences for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty around Ironton. The company offers various activities that allow participants to connect with nature while learning about the local environment and ecosystems. Their expert guides ensure a safe and educational adventure suitable for different skill levels and interests.
14. Tri-State Escape
INTERACTIVE PUZZLE ROOMS
Tri-State Escape offers an engaging entertainment experience where participants work together to solve puzzles and complete challenges within a set time limit. The escape rooms feature various themed scenarios that test problem-solving skills and teamwork in an immersive environment. This attraction provides a unique indoor activity option for friends, families, or colleagues looking for something different to do in the Ironton area.
15. Ashland Town Center
REGIONAL SHOPPING MALL
Ashland Town Center is a regional shopping destination located near Ironton in neighboring Ashland, Kentucky. The mall features a variety of retail stores, dining options, and services that attract shoppers from throughout the tri-state area. Its convenient location makes it an accessible shopping option for Ironton residents looking for a wider selection of merchandise than available locally.