the sweet life
Savor moments together in Downtown Chillicothe!
Ginny found true caring right at home.
When her church elected her to serve on Adena’s board, Ginny took the responsibility seriously. But it wasn’t until she became a patient herself — enduring fractured bones and battling COPD — that she truly experienced compassion and dedication from caregivers who were also her neighbors. Today she is recovering, cheering on her grandson’s little league games, and serving her church. Ginny is one of the many faces of our patients in the community we call home.
See Ginny’s story and more at Adena.org/Faces.
GINNY W. Patient
with its rich history as ohio’s first capital, Chillicothe and Ross County are just the place to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in 2026. Discover Ohio’s first World Heritage Sites and special America 250 events, including the monthly First Capital Speaker Series and the Brigade of the American Revolution on June 13–14. To stay informed about events around Ross County, visit visitchillicotheohio.com/america250-rosscountyohio.com.
Head to Downtown Chillicothe is filled with moments to treasure.
6 Family Fun Ideas
Countless hours of fun await you and your family.
History on Every Corner
Explore downtown Chillicothe on these walking tours.
Choose from a wide range of welcoming accommodations. 2 9 11 14 18 22 24 25 31
Visit the Land of Our Ancestors A guide to experiencing the World Heritage Site in Ohio.
Great Outdoors Trail Guide Fabulous green spaces across Ross County.
It’s a Date
Plan your trip during one of these 2026 events.
Local Sips
Try distinctive flavors at these popular spots.
Explore Ross County
Find the perfect match between old and new.
Where to Stay
want more ideas?
download the visit chillicothe ohio app.
Downtown head to
no matter what you enjoy, spending time in downtown chillicothe is filled with moments to treasure.
Fun on Wheels
tours of the city Go sightseeing aboard a 15-passenger pedal wagon during a First Capital Brews
, which offers tours of local taprooms and game nights. Travel with ease on the Chillicothe
, as it makes stops at key destinations throughout the city, including restaurants and local attractions.
Cruze (pictured)
Trolley
rise & dine where to sleep
& get breakfast
Wake refreshed at The Willis-James Bed & Breakfast, a 19th-century wonder where old meets new with federal and classical revival architecture and amenities, including Beekman 1802 personal care products. Or settle in amid the charming ambiance at the 182-year-old Atwood House Bed and Breakfast
Enjoy a luscious morning meal at both spots or treat yourself to a fluffy three-egg omelet or stuffed French toast at The Coop Chillicothe
full plates
local favorite restaurants
Enjoy irresistible slowsmoked brisket, along with farm-style meals, at Bell Farms Homestead. Savor the flavor of hickory-smoked barbecue favorites at Old Canal Smoke House, which dates back to 1850. Pair a curated cocktail with your meal at downtown’s gastropub, The Pour House at Machinery Hall
stay fueled tea & coffee shops
Relax with soothing cups of handmade herbal blends from Tea of Life Apothecary, which also carries essential oils and natural remedies. Step back in time at Cafe Chillicoffee, a 1940s coffee house where three generations of baristas serve perfectly crafted specialty drinks, including Eager Beaver Cold Brew with lavender. Pick up a bag of locally roasted beans to take back home at Two Roasting Joes at the Chillicothe Farmers Market and on High Street.
Atwood House Bed and Breakfast
Cafe Chillicoffee
The Pour House at Machinery Hall
Chillicothe Trolley
The Coop Chillicothe
Keepsakes
cute shops Discover stories old and new at Wheatberry Books, a well-curated independent bookstore filled with a generous assortment of volumes for every age and interest. Spruce up your home and garden with a visit to Ivy’s, known for charming décor, along with unique jewelry.
a piece of history shops with a nod to the past Explore our country’s past at The History Store, a must-see, family-owned retailer specializing in books, art and the largest selection of military miniatures in the state. Indulge in luscious concoctions at the soda fountain, then play pinball and other vintage arcade games before browsing the impressive assortment of finds at the Chillicothe Antique Emporium.
dress sharp women’s fashions
Be good to yourself by visiting Kindly, an emporium that lives up to its promise with comfy apparel, including soft Ts, dresses, rompers and accessories for women of all ages. Shop for the latest fashions, cute shoes and accessories at Rustic Gals. Find, cute, comfortable, trendy looks that fit your sense of style at Cranberry Boutique
good sports can’t miss for sports fans
Take aim at your target at Southern Ohio Axe Throwing, where an experienced guide helps your axe throws. Celebrate the moment when you find the player you’ve been searching for at Chillicothe Sports Cards
Rustic Gals
The History Store
Sweet Things
ice cream and treats Indulge in hand-dipped cones, shakes and sundaes at ParkSide Ice Creamery, known for scooping out happiness seven days a week. Taste nostalgia at Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop, the mouth-watering home of over 250 candy bars and 100 varieties of bulk candy and 300 varieties of glass-bottle soda pops. Save room for the irresistible desserts, cookies, cakes and teas Shanks Bakery and Boba creates.
sipping spots
craft breweries
Take in the sights from the rooftop at The Pour House at Machinery Hall. Try the bourbon burger, blackend shrimp tacos or the beer molasses salmon. Kick back at Old Capitol Brewing, the first brewery and taproom to open in 70 years in Chillicothe. It features selections made with tart and sweet ingredients. Say “cheers” at Tipplers, where the atmosphere is laid-back, and the libation list features curated bourbon, craft beers and fine wines to enjoy on the year-round patio with gas fire pits. Drink in the rooftop view at Terrace 27 in the historic Pour House while sipping expertly crafted signature selections.
get cultured arts spots
Admire the talents of local artists at the Pump House Center for the Arts while strolling the halls of the magnificent 142-year-old iconic building with Palladian windows and Victorian Gothic architectural touches.
Take your seat in the lovingly restored Majestic Theatre to enjoy concerts featuring favorite tunes and performers. Help your child get crafty and design a lifelong treasure that’s one-of-a-kind at Nellie Dog Pottery & Paints.
Majestic Theatre
The Pour House at Machinery Hall
Portagree
Lievita
Ivy’s Home & Garden Ivy’s is Chillicothe’s go-to gift shop and
66 N Paint St, Chillicothe 740-774-2667 Rustic Gals Rustic Gals Boutique in the heart of downtown Chillicothe offers the latest styles! 70 North Paint St, Chillicothe Rusticgals.com
trends and discover unique gift items at Kindly Boutique. Located in the heart of our beautiful downtown. 71 N. Mulberry St, Chillicothe 740-703-7154
69 East Water St, Chillicothe 740-773-3283
Family Fun
places for kids Delight in seeing the little ones in your life engage in problem-solving and STEM activities that are innovative, interactive and fun at the Mighty Children’s Museum. Get in touch with your inner artist by throwing pottery and painting a masterpiece at Portagree Pottery
6
countless hours of fun await you and your family in ross county.
1 Hit Shawnee Lanes in Chillicothe for a few frames of bowling.
2 Check out the diverse offerings of Triple Crown Family Fun Center, including indoor soccer, batting cages and an arcade.
3 Got a need for speed? Watch sports mods, trucks, hobby stock cars and more compete on the dirt track at 35 Raceway in Frankfort with races every Saturday night.
4 For more motorsports action, check out the stock car racing at Atomic Speedway, Chillicothe’s own legendary, superfast 3/8-mile dirt track.
5 Slow down and splash away in the natural beauty of Ross County. Rent a kayak or canoe from Salt Creek Kayak Adventures to ride along the beautiful, tree-lined Salt Creek.
6 Take your pick of a canoe or a kayak and float down Paint Creek at Waters Edge Canoe Livery.
Portagree Pottery
Salt Creek Kayak Adventures
Mighty Children’s Museum
Historic Downtown Chillicothe, Ohio is the perfect day trip destination, blending small-town charm with rich history and vibrant attractions. Stroll along brick-lined streets filled with unique shops, local boutiques, and cozy cafés. Discover cultural treasures at local museums, admire the beautifully preserved architecture, or catch a show at the historic Majestic Theatre. With nearby trails, murals, and seasonal festivals, Chillicothe offers something for everyone. It’s a welcoming getaway where history, community, and exploration meet.
corner history on every paint street
stroll through history as you explore chillicothe.
get ideas on the go!
Ross County Courthouse
Walk Paint Street and step into layers of history, from church spires to wartime stories. The Wissler Building once hosted Officers Club No. 1 during Chillicothe’s Camp Sherman days in WWI, when thousands of soldiers filled the city. The 1875 Italianate-style City Hall kept watch over downtown — its back wall doubling as the city jail until 1989. Nearby, St. Mary’s Catholic Church (1869) once ran a busy school just around the corner on Fourth Street, though the building no longer exists. The Franklin House (1907), a Prairie Style gem, now houses a women’s museum, while the Chillicothe Ross County Public Library (1906) still welcomes readers with its grand façade. Memories of Camp Sherman linger on this street; the 20thcentury Sherman Theater and Winter Garden offered soldiers live entertainment and showed movies on the old canal bed. Walk around the corner to the Elks Club at 42 W. Second Street and the Majestic Theatre (1853, Masonic Hall). Both played somber roles during the 1918 Spanish flu outbreak, which claimed over 1,100 lives; the latter location served as an embalming site for the camp’s flu victims. The Ross County Courthouse served as a bustling info hub and the site where 20,000 troops celebrated the war’s end, and the old 1906 Chillicothe Post Office saw local draftees board buses to training. Here, history is built into every brick.
WWI CAMP
Built in 1917 on 2,000 acres at a cost of $4 million, Camp Sherman (the third largest training camp in the U.S. during WWI) trained 40,000 soldiers. In one striking moment, 21,000 men formed a living portrait of President Woodrow Wilson. Today, only the original Camp Library remains.
center stage Paint Street once boasted grand stages; the Apollo, Orpheum and Clough Opera House all drew crowds to downtown.
second street
Amble down Second Street and uncover stories in the brick and stone. At 70 E. Second St., the 1910 Fire Station #1 now houses a firefighter museum, its original charm intact (minus a garage added later). Nearby, the Majestic Courtyard lot whispers of its past as a hotel that stood here until the 1990s. The two neighboring buildings burnt down in 2006. The loss uncovered a rare gem: a 19th-century advertisement still clinging to the wall. Farther down, the West Second Residential stretch shows off centuries of architectural styles from Walnut to High streets. Federal, Victorian and early 1800s-style homes line the street, each telling a piece of Chillicothe’s story.
Second Street’s iconic arch was installed in 1907 by A.R. Wolf, owner of the Masonic Opera House. When the space changed hands in 1915, it became the Majestic Theatre, a name that still lights up Chillicothe’s downtown arts scene. look up as you walk!
The Pour House at Machinery Hall
Fire Station, 1910
water street
Start your exploration of downtown along Water Street, once a bustling thoroughfare along the Ohio & Erie Canal from 1831 to 1907. Picture canal boats docking beside many of the buildings still standing today. At Second and Mulberry streets, a colorful mural traces the canal’s winding path from north to south through Chillicothe. Walk further to admire the Masonic Temple built in 1904, an elegant Renaissance Revival landmark. On the Public Square, the Ross County Courthouse marks the site of Ohio’s first statehouse in 1858. Nearby, a 1940 replica of the original statehouse stands as a reminder. Walk to the northwest corner of Walnut and Second streets and imagine seeing the Abram’s Big House — once a hub for legislators and a War of 1812 barracks.
ancient anthropology Long before Chillicothe’s founding, an Adena Burial Mound once stood on the east side of Paint Street between Water and Second streets. In 1798, Thomas Worthington built his first home in front of it. By 1813, the mound was leveled.
main street
Main Street tells a story of faith and resilience through its historic churches. Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, founded in 1821 by African American worshippers seeking freedom from segregation, now stands in a 1990 building. The Glorious Church of God, built by German immigrants in 1846 with services performed in German, survived a fire in 1929. Nearby, two First Presbyterian Churches once stood — one from 1844–1894 and the other from 1894 until a fire burned it down in 1956. Though both are gone, their history lingers. Around the corner, St. Mary’s Catholic Church (1869) at 61 S. Paint St. remains an enduring presence. Together, these sites reflect Chillicothe’s rich spiritual heritage.
lasting legacy Catholicism in Chillicothe grew with Irish immigrants who arrived during the Ohio & Erie Canal’s 1826 construction. Today, St. Mary’s (1869) on S. Paint Street and St. Peter’s (1949) at Church and Water streets stand as testaments to their faith and community.
Canal Boat in Chillicothe, 1903
Chillicothe Street Fair, 1899
ANCESTORS Visit the Land of Our
a guide to experiencing the world heritage sites in ohio.
TTo get the most out of a visit to the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, Ohio’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, start at the visitor center at Mound City. “The earthworks are so simplistic in looking at them, but so complex in design. It’s important for people to go to the visitors center so they are able to understand what they are seeing,” says Chief Glenna J. Wallace of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma. “The staff there are so friendly and knowledgeable. Talking to them would greatly enhance anyone’s visit.”
Explore the earthworks by visiting the Mound City, which is believed to be a ceremonial center for the Hopewell culture. It’s the only fully restored Hopewell earthwork complex with 25 mounds of varying sizes surrounded by a low, earthen wall. Mound City is also one of Chief Wallace’s favorite sites, with good reason. “All of these earthworks are built near water, because waterways were their transportation routes,” she adds.
the earthworks are so simplistic in looking at them, but so complex in design.” “
chief glenna j. wallace
“Mound City has developed a trail where you pass the mounds as you walk down to the Scioto River. You can just visualize those Native Americans coming down that same trail. It brings the site to life.”
Once a major ceremonial hub, the Hopewell Mound Group was a destination that people traveled to on foot from across North America.
Nearby, Hopeton Earthworks has two massive shapes. The winter solstice is one of the best times to visit, when the sunset perfectly aligns with the embankment walls — demonstrating this ancient culture’s scientific expertise.
Also in the area is High Bank Works; though closed to the public, this research preserve continues to shed light on this ancient culture. It included a large circle with the same diameter as the Octagon Earthworks’ Observatory Circle in Newark — an incredible achievement since they are 64 miles apart.
Along a bend in Paint Creek, the Seip Earthworks has mostly vanished due to farming, but the foundations of the connected square and circle shapes — spanning over 120 acres — still remain underground. These earthworks were likely large gathering places. The central mound has been recreated, and then Seip, like other sites, uses interpretive mowing to reveal the rest of the earthwork shapes.
“To be able to represent these mounds in such
Hopewell Mound Group
Mound City
Great Circle Earthworks
Octagon Earthworks
Looking for a place where time slows down, stories come alive, and every visit feels like coming home? That’s what you’ll find in the Ohio Foothills—a hidden gem nestled in the Appalachia region, where scenic landscapes, rich heritage, and authentic local charm invite you to wander freely and experience life at a different pace.
a creative way is ingenious,” says Chief Wallace. “People travel to see cathedrals and castles — things built with stone and concrete. The Native Americans built everything here just as complex, just as grand, but with Mother Earth.” Originally, over 10,000 mounds dotted the region, but now fewer than 900 remain. Achieving World Heritage status for these sites showcases the uncommon genius of the people who created them.
more sites to see
Connect with the other locations that are components of this World Heritage Site.
While Native Americans used to travel for days by foot from Chillicothe to Newark for celebrations, you can easily make a day trip out of the trek to enjoy what each site has to offer. Observe the intricate planning and patterns at Great Circle Earthworks and Octagon Earthworks in Newark, or visit the largest ancient hilltop enclosure in North America at Fort Ancient Earthworks and Nature Preserve in Oregonia.
Grab a latte before you get on the road in downtown Chillicothe at Rōst Coffee or Cafe Chillicoffee, known for fun flavors like tiramisu and hazelnut along with subs that pack well for a picnic lunch. Paper City Coffee offers stacked bagel sandwiches perfect for a breakfast or lunch.
Bell Farms
Bell Farms Homestead, nestled in the heart of Historic Downtown Chillicothe, offers a unique dining experience that combines exceptional food with a rich sense of history. Since opening its doors on January 22nd, 2021 , this charming establishment has become known for serving the best beef brisket and an array of delicious home-cooked meals Visitors are invited to step back in time as they enjoy the ambiance of a pre-1848 building adorned with historic maps and decor The family-style atmosphere, delightful staff, and inviting setting make Bell Farms Homestead a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the warmth and history of one of the few original homes that once lined the canal . Whether you're a local or a traveler, this homestead promises a memorable meal in a truly special environment
Fort Ancient Earthworks
Fort Ancient Earthworks
beautiful state parks
EEver wondered where Ohio’s Great Seal scenery comes from? Find the inspiration in the rolling hills of the Scioto Valley at Great Seal State Park Nearby, the COVID-19 Pandemic Memorial Grove honors frontline workers with native trees.
Unlimited horsepower boating, a swimming beach, disc golf and mini golf make Paint Creek State Park a favored summertime destination. Wildlife watchers will see quail, pheasants and many other birds and animals at the adjacent Paint Creek Lake Wildlife Area
Every fall, take in panoramic, vibrant ridge views along the hiking trails at Scioto Trail State Park. The state forest encompassing the park offers hunting and spring mushroom foraging opportunities.
In Tar Hollow State Forest, equestrians can enjoy 27 miles of scenic trails on horseback, then stay overnight at the horse camp. Backpackers can explore even further in the forest along the 21-mile Logan Backpack Trail.
Reel in largemouth bass, bluegill and catfish at Pike Lake State Park The adjacent Pike State Forest is perfect for ATV, dirt bike and side-by-side riders.
Great Outdoors trail guide
Earl H. Barnhart Buzzard’s Roost
Pike Lake State Park
pristine nature preserves
Marvel at the shale and sandstone cliffs of Paint Creek Gorge along the Lookout Trail at Earl H. Barnhart Buzzard’s Roost. Bring your binoculars — birding is popular! History lovers can opt for the Hoggard Trail, which reveals signs of the area’s homesteading past.
Kinnikinnick Fen is dedicated to helping the land return to its natural state. As a fen, this wetland is fed by mineralrich waters that attract threatened species of plants and animals. As you take a leisurely stroll down the Kirtland Trail, observe the native plants in the meadows, woods and wetlands.
Herron-Downs Fen Nature Preserve offers the chance to see a wetland restoration in process. The vast area is filled with woodlands and isolated wetlands, along with 174 acres of recently active farm fields that are being restored to their natural state.
Tranquility awaits in the changing colors of Metahqua each fall. See the golden colors of nature reflected in Becky’s Pond. Any time of year, tread quietly for the opportunity to see wildlife along Little Walnut Creek like bobcats, mink and beaver.
Earl H. Barnhart Buzzard’s Roost
more green spaces
The biodiversity of the Highlands Nature Sanctuary means that when the wildflowers bloom in spring, this area explodes with color. Hike through the 100foot dolomite canyon of Rocky Fork Gorge for stellar views, or visit the Appalachian Forest Museum to learn more about the area.
The Paint Creek Recreational Trail between Chillicothe and Washington Court House gives new life to the B&O Railroad corridor. This paved, 32-mile trail is perfect for cyclers, rollerbladers and strollers.
For a peaceful retreat and green gathering space just off the banks of the Scioto River, visit Yoctangee Park
This community hub
features walking trails, a lake, sports fields and courts, and a handicapaccessible playground.
Walk through American history at Millennium Grove, where seven glades of more than 100 trees stand as living historical markers. Each tree is a direct descendant of one from a significant location or moment in our country’s history.
Highlands Nature Sanctuary
Yoctangee Park
atomic speedway
march–october Watch the stock car drivers at this racing venue, known as the fastest 3/8-mile dirt track in the nation.
ohio statehood day
march 7 Celebrate the state’s birthday in Chillicothe, Ohio’s first capital city, with free events from museums and historical sites around town.
the buck fifty
april 17–18 Cheer on the runners or compete in this challenging overnight relay race whose scenic trail runs throughout Ross County. All skill levels welcome!
earth gathering festival
april 18 Learn about nature and sustainability with Earthfriendly local art, products and more at the Pump House Center for the Arts.
feast of the flowering moon
may 22–24 Honor, preserve and learn about Native American culture with dancing, music and family-friendly entertainment at this annual festival in downtown Chillicothe.
chillicothe paints
june–august Watch the future stars on Chillicothe’s summer baseball team compete in the collegiate Prospect League from the stands of VA Memorial Stadium.
june–labor day weekend
See history come alive at this nationally renowned outdoor drama at the breathtaking Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, featuring the epic life story of legendary Shawnee leader Tecumseh.
ohio jeep fest
june 5–6 Did you know that Jeeps are made right here in Ohio? Watch Jeeps compete in motorsports events at Ross County Fairgrounds, including Barrel Racing and a Trail Rated Challenge.
chillicothe brewfest
june 6 Taste wine and craft beer from local wineries and breweries at this 21+ festival — all for a good cause! Proceeds benefit the revitalization of downtown Chillicothe.
southern ohio forest rally
june 11–13
at this major stage rally race through the forests of Chillicothe and Portsmouth. Enjoy food trucks and live music from fan zones. Get a chance to meet drivers, teams and rally legends.
kenworth truck parade
june 13
See dozens of new, classic and customized Kenworth trucks from all over the country line up for this annual parade, including a dedication to the iconic W900 model.
frankfort
sunflower festival
july 25–26
sand in the streets
august 14–16
Watch competitive and recreational volleyball teams face off at this annual volleyball tournament, where 300 tons of sand are unloaded in the streets of downtown Chillicothe.
apple harvest open house
Check out this eclectic downtown celebration, featuring a car show, parade and more. Don’t miss the Sunflower Show, a sunflower contest whose categories include Prettiest, Ugliest and Most Unusual.
ross county fair
august 1–8
Spend quality family time at this annual weeklong event in Chillicothe. Enjoy rides and yummy fair foods along with special events every day, from derbies to contests to rodeos. There’s even a petting zoo!
september 19–20 Pick your own apples and pumpkins at Hirsch Fruit Farm & Market in Chillicothe. Taste their cider while your kids play grain cart basketball and slip down a giant slide.
haunted mountain
october 1–31
Brave the largest Halloween theater production in Ohio at Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre. While you’re there, follow the Haunted Trail and break out of the escape room.
chillicothe halloween festival
october 9–11
Enjoy coffin racing, costume contests, pumpkin carving and other spooky activities at this three-day family-friendly festival in Yoctangee Park. Don’t skip out on the Haunted Tent!
fall festival of leaves
october 16–18 Visit Bainbridge, known as “Leaf Country USA,” for this annual three-day festival that includes a flea market, antique tractor show and self-guided Skyline Drives through four different scenic loops.
shine on chillicothe
november 20–december 31
Join the community in Yoctangee Park for this treelighting ceremony and take in the beauty of the park’s festive light display all holiday season.
Atomic Speedway
Feast of the Flowering Moon
Ross County Fair
Haunted Mountain
Local Sips
Try distinctive flavors at these popular spots.
AAustin Mill Brewing Company in Frankfort offers far more than just their well-crafted beer. Come for the brews and stay for live music and food trucks! Sip the craft lagers, stouts and IPAs made onsite and enjoy the taproom ambience at Old Capitol Brewing
Relax on the patio at Tipplers with a pour from their curated craft beer, bourbon and fine wine list, right in the heart of Chillicothe. Sightsee around historic downtown Chillicothe on the passenger party bike, the First Capital Brews Cruze
With a long family history of making Appalachian moonshine, Pap’s Hilltop Distillery in Bainbridge continues its roots, creating small-batch moonshine with tempting flavors like blackberry, caramel apple pie and peach.
Take in the views at Na zdravie Vineyard and Winery in Kingston. Naz is short for Na zdravie, which means “cheers” in Slovak. Do just that with friends or loved ones as you sip a glass of wine, or visit on the weekend to enjoy a live music performance.
Old Capitol Brewing
Tipplers
Exploreross county
whether you’re a history lover, looking for family activities or longing to get away, ross county’s diverse offerings are right for you. you’ll find the perfect match between old and new!
fascinating historic sites
adena mansion & gardens
Step back in time to 1807 at the grand estate of Thomas Worthington, a great American home which rivals the likes of Mount Vernon and Monticello. The house is one of only three designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe still standing in the country. Tour the stately mansion and stroll through the beautifully restored gardens. 847 Adena Rd., Chillicothe, (740) 772-1500, adenamansion.com
bainbridge historical museum
From pioneers to industry leaders, Bainbridge has stories to tell about early life among the hills of the Scioto Valley, long before Ohio became the 17th state.
204 W. Third St., Bainbridge, (740) 634-2228
chillicothe railroad museum
All aboard for a train museum adventure inside a train. Check out two cabooses packed with railroad history, artifacts and a model train that delights visitors of all ages. N. Paint St. & W. Water St., Chillicothe, (740) 702-7675
dr. john harris dental museum
Ever wondered about the history of dentistry?
At the Dr. John Harris Dental Museum at the Bainbridge Historical complex, you can learn how dentists became dentists 180 years ago at the nation’s first dental school. Fun fact: Before the establishment of this school to develop dental education, barbers did most dental work!
208 W. Main St., Bainbridge, (740) 634-2228, cradleofdentistry.org
Adena Mansion & Gardens
lucy webb hayes heritage center
Visit the childhood home of Lucy Webb Hayes, wife of 19th President Rutherford B. Hayes, and the first presidential wife to be referred to as the “First Lady.” Take a look at artifacts from Lucy’s remarkable life and peek into the parlor. Open by appointment only. 90 W. Sixth St., Chillicothe, (740) 775-5829
phoenix firehouse museum
Learn about the history of firefighting at this fascinating museum showcasing everything from antique fire trucks to hats and other gear. Open by appointment only, this family-friendly museum combines the history of fire service with current ways to promote fire safety. 68 E. Second St., Chillicothe, (740) 773-2212, phoenixfiremuseum.com
ross county genealogical society
Trace the roots of your family tree at this treasure trove of local history. Browse the library for records, certificates, obituaries, indexes and other files on personal history — or even purchase copies to continue your research.
303 S. Paint St., Chillicothe, (740) 773-2715, rcgsohio.org
ross county heritage center
Visit this museum complex to time-travel from prehistoric cultures to Ohio statehood, from the Civil War years through the 20th century in Ohio’s original capital city. Toys and dolls, art portraits, vehicles and early Ohio decorative arts tell the story of Chillicothe’s past. 45 W. Fifth St., Chillicothe, (740) 772-1936, rosscountyhistorical.org
Ross County Heritage Center
arts & culture
chillicothe civic theatre
From children’s musicals to beloved classics, take in a show performed by local talent at the Chillicothe Civic Theatre, which keeps the stage alive all year long. 83 S. Walnut St., Chillicothe, (740) 771-4528, cctoh.org
majestic theatre
Built in 1853, this venue was home to classic theater in the 19th century, then vaudeville stage shows and eventually movies from the golden age of film. Today, the Majestic continues its tradition as Chillicothe’s premier stage for live performances and events. 45 E. Second St., Chillicothe, (740) 772-2041, majesticchillicothe.net
the paxton theatre
Settle into a seat and see a concert or theater production at this historic theater, built with bricks and native stones quarried in the area. 133 E. Main St., Bainbridge, (740) 206-6603
pump house center for the arts
Local art finds its home in this 142-year-old Victorian Gothic building in Chillicothe’s Preservation District. Explore rotating exhibits and browse the gift shop for a painting or sculpture to bring home. 1 Enderlin Circle, Chillicothe, (740) 772-5783, thepumphouse.art
Pump House Center for the Arts
family fun
chillicothe paints baseball club
Root for the home team during America’s favorite pastime! This Prospect League team promises summer nights filled with plenty of kids’ activities, giveaways and entertainment, certified to be a hit home run for the family Games: V.A. Memorial Stadium, 17273 St. Rte. 104, Chillicothe; Office: 11 E. Second St., Chillicothe, (740) 773-TEAM, chillicothepaints.com
mighty children’s museum
Learning meets play at this interactive children’s museum designed for kids 7 and under. Hands-on activities spark curiosity and imagination 21 E. Fourth St., Chillicothe, mightymuseum.org
DANBARRY
Mighty Children’s Museum
Chillicothe Paints
native american heritage
hopewell culture national historical park
Step into the footsteps of a 2,000-year-old civilization at Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, part of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vast earthwork complexes rise from the landscape, evoking the story of ancient Native Americans’ cultural ceremonies and daily life. North of Chillicothe, wander through Mound City and Hopeton Earthworks, then travel west to Hopewell Mound Group and Seip Earthworks in Bainbridge. Stop by the visitor center to marvel at finely crafted artifacts. 16062 St. Rte. 104, Chillicothe, (740) 774-1126, nps.gov/hocu junction earthworks
Lace up your hiking boots for an afternoon at the Highlands Nature Sanctuary near Bainbridge. Get a dose of greenery in the stunning Rocky Fork Gorge and stroll the old-growth forest before visiting the Appalachian Forest Museum. Just outside Chillicothe, explore 2,000-year-old Native American earthworks at Junction Earthworks before hiking the three nature trails. 1143 Bellview Ave., Chillicothe, (937) 365-1935, arcofappalachia.org/junction-earthworks
tecumseh! outdoor drama
At Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, you can join the more than 3 million people who have witnessed the captivating reenactment of the legendary Shawnee leader, Tecumseh. Under the stars, immerse yourself in the unfolding story as Tecumseh and his followers struggle to defend their homelands in the late 1700s. 5968 Marietta Rd., Chillicothe, (866) 775-0700, tecumsehdrama.com
• Homemade Pizza
Fresh Bake or Take & Bake
Your Choice of Toppings
• Breads
• Dinner Rolls
• Noodles
• Brownie & Pumpkin Bars
• Pies Pecan, Fruit, etc
• Cakes
Decorated, Carrot, German Chocolate, etc.
• Fresh Ground Arbuckles™ Coffee
• Fresh Squeezed Lemonade
• Hot Spiced Cider
• Donuts & Eclairs
• Pumpkin Rolls
• Cookies
• Cinnamon Rolls
• Fry Pies
• Apple Fritters
• Apple Dumplings
• Cobblers
• Hand-Tossed Hot Pretzels
Regular, Wheat, Cinnamon Sugar
Try ham, turkey, chicken salad, OR even a reuben... on a HOT PRETZEL or fresh baked rye roll! Having Friends or Family Over?
HOTELS
Best Western Adena Inn
1250 N. Bridge St., Chillicothe, (740) 775-7000, bestwestern.com/adenainn
Christopher Inn & Suites
30 N. Plaza Blvd., Chillicothe, (740) 774-6835, christopherhotels.com
Executive Inn
24 N. Bridge St., Chillicothe, (740) 774-2512, executiveinnchillicothe.top
Fairfield Inn & Suites
300 N. Plaza Blvd., Chillicothe, (740) 771-9090, christopherhotels.com
Hampton Inn & Suites
100 N. Plaza Blvd., Chillicothe, (740) 773-1616, christopherhotels.com
Holiday Inn Express
1003 E. Main St., Chillicothe, (740) 851-6140, hiexpress.com/chillicotheoh
Quality Inn
20 N. Plaza Blvd., Chillicothe, (740) 775-3500, christopherhotels.com
TownePlace Suites Chillicothe Opening Spring 2026 454 N. Shawnee Lane, Chillicothe, marriott.com
OTHER ACCOMMODATIONS
Atwood House
68 S. Paint St., Chillicothe, (740) 774-1606, atwoodhousebandb.com
Sun Valley Campground
10105 Co. Rd. 550, Chillicothe, (740) 775-3490, sunvalleycampground. freeservers.com
The Willis-James Bed & Breakfast
58 W. Fifth St., Chillicothe, (740) 229-9019, thewillisjames.com
stay where to
When visiting Chillicothe and Ross County, you’ll have a choice of a wide range of welcoming accommodations. With modern hotels, historic and charming B&Bs, beautiful campgrounds near the water, cozy cabins and unique short-term rental properties, there is something for everyone!
scan this qr code or check out visitchillicotheohio.com/ where-to-stay for a complete and up-to-date list of lodging options.
The Willis-James Bed & Breakfast
