things to do in chillicothe ohio

Chillicothe, Ohio, is a charming city with a rich history, outdoor recreation opportunities, and cultural attractions. Here are some things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio:

1. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park: Explore the largest collection of prehistoric earthworks in the United States, built by the Hopewell culture between 200 BCE and 500 CE.
2. Ross County Heritage Center: Learn about the region’s history, from prehistoric times to the present, at this museum featuring exhibits, artifacts, and a genealogy library.
3. Chillicothe and Ross County Public Library: Admire the stunning architecture of this historic library, built in 1906, and browse its extensive collection of books and media.
4. Yoctangee Park: Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and picnicking in this 48-acre park featuring walking trails, a lake, and a playground.
5. Paints Creek State Park: Hike, bike, or horseback ride through this scenic park’s 5,300 acres of wooded hills, prairies, and lakes.
6. Chillicothe Farmers Market: Stock up on fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts at this bustling market, open from May to October.
7. The Paxton Theatre: Catch a live performance, concert, or film at this historic theater, built in 1910 and restored to its original grandeur.
8. Chillicothe Civic Theatre: Enjoy community theater productions, from musicals to dramas, at this intimate venue.
9. Ross County Fairgrounds: Attend the annual Ross County Fair, which features live music, rides, food vendors, and animal exhibits.
10. Take a downtown walking tour: Stroll through Chillicothe’s historic downtown area and admire its charming shops, restaurants, and architecture.
11. Visit the Lucy Webb Hayes Heritage Center: Learn about the life and legacy of Lucy Webb Hayes, wife of President Rutherford B. Hayes, at this museum showcasing her family’s history and artifacts.
12. Go fishing or boating: Take advantage of Chillicothe’s proximity to the Scioto River and Paint Creek Lake to enjoy water sports and fishing.
13. Attend a festival: Chillicothe hosts various festivals throughout the year, including the Feast of the Flowering Moon, the Chillicothe Jazz Festival, and the Ross County Heritage Festival.
14. Explore the outdoors: Chillicothe is surrounded by scenic countryside, forests, and parks, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and outdoor adventure.
15. Visit the Chillicothe Gazette: Stop by the office of this historic newspaper, which has been publishing since 1793, making it one of the oldest continuously published newspapers in the United States.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio. The city offers a mix of history, culture, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm that’s sure to appeal to visitors of all interests.