27 Best & Fun Things to Do in Chillicothe (Ohio)

Looking for the best and most fun things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio?

Chillicothe is a spectacular city in Ross County, Ohio, United States. It is the county seat of Ross County and the only city in Ross County. This city is also the first and third capital of Ohio; it is located south of Columbus, along the Scioto River.

The earliest settlers of Chillicothe were the Virginians who settled there in 1796, and in 1802, Chillicothe city was officially incorporated. The name Chillicothe was gotten from a Shawnee word meaning “Principal Town,” which credence to the Chillicothe being the first and only city in Ross County.

The city is known to have some of the State’s best-preserved Indian earthworks, and it is also filled with lots of historical sites and monuments.

Let’s explore the top attractions in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Things to Do in Chillicothe, Ohio

1. Adena Mansion and Gardens Historic Site

Visit the Adena Mansion and Gardens Historic Site to explore the wonderful Adena building designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe. The mansion is one of the only three buildings by Benjamin still erect in the entire United States.

Adena Mansion is located inside a 2,000-acre estate owned by Thomas Worthington. The mansion was built in the early 1800s and restored when Thomas Worthington and his family lived in the estate.

When you visit the Adena Mansion and Gardens, look east from the north lawn of the mansion to see the Scioto River Valley and Logan Range. It is such a beautiful site not to miss.

A visit to the Adena Mansion and Gardens Historic Site is one of the fun things to do in Chillicothe.

Address: 847 Adena Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601-1372

2. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park features a cultural park that preserves the prehistoric remains of the Hopewell tribe in Ross County. The park was formed out of the famous Mound City Group National Monument.

The Mound City Group National Monument was established in 1923 to preserve prehistoric mounds of “great historic and scientific interest.” This national monument, still being a part of Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, is one of the top attractions at the park.

The Hopewell Culture National Historical Park currently covers about six sites within the Ross County area.

You would also find a collection of exciting materials like mica, shark’s teeth, obsidian, copper, marine shells, and many more.

 Address: 16062 State Route 104, Chillicothe, OH 45601-8694

3. Yoctangee Park

Yoctangee Park is a fun-filled community park in Chillicothe, which has served the community since 1875. The park was formerly called City Park before it was changed to Yoctangee Park in the 1890s.

The park features playground equipment, a pond, and skate park, pools with diving boards, fountains, and a basketball and tennis court. There is also much graffiti art to look at everywhere around the park.

Go skating at the park, feed ducks at the pond, walk through the park and watch children play. At Yoctangee Park, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

You will also find different pathways that are great for a short family ride through the park.

Discover lots of gardens and streams as you go on this trip with your family or friends. Swimming at the Yoctangee Park is one of the fun things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio, so do add to your bucket list.

4. Scioto Trail State Park

Scioto Trail State Park is a quiet trail park inside the 9,000 acres Scioto Trail State Forest in Chillicothe, Ohio. The park is a nature park made especially for hiking or biking. Have a pleasant hike in Scioto Trail State Park when hiking with friends or family.

The park’s beautiful forest and ridge tops make the park a perfect place to escape from the city and spend time with nature. From the garden, you will see the breathtaking views of the Scioto River Valley when you stand at the ridgetops.

Take a quiet hike through the serene forest filled with thick oaks, wildflowers, mushrooms, and ferns.

There are different wildflowers to look out for such as spring beauties, Dutchman’s breeches, and wild blue phlox.

Address: 144 Lake Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601-9478

5. Great Seal State Park

The Great Sea State Park is a 1,862-acre multi-purpose park with different trails for hiking, biking, and a simple stroll, and the park is also an endowed nature park with lots of trees and beautiful scenic views.

The park is one of the top attractions in Chillicothe, attracting visitors from different areas in Ross County.

While at the state park, you can also choose to have a picnic with your friends or family and enjoy a relaxed day around nature. If you love to hike, you can also join some hiking challenges hosted in the park and make new friends.

The name of the park, “Great Seal,” emanates from the State emblem, “The Great Seal of the State of Ohio,” as the park served as an inspiration in creating the State’s coat of arms. Having a picnic at the Great Seal State Park is one of the best Chillicothe activities.

Address: 4908 Marietta Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601-9462

6. Mound City

The Mound City is part of the prehistoric remains included in the Hopewell Culture Historical sites. The Mound is a 13-acres rectangular earthwork containing 23 ceremonial mounds. The area of this historical Mound city takes you back in time to two thousand years ago (200 B.C. and A.D. 500).

Enjoy walking through these ceremonial sites and touching the clay walls; the earth walls enclosing the Mound City are about 3-4 feet high, with a gateway on the east and west side of the building. The Mound City portrays how the early Native American tribes socialized.

At the Mound City, you will find different mounds; these mounds are shaped like in a dome shape form, except one which has the ellipse form.

Look out for the giant Mound in the Mound city, and it is stunning and very high. Sightseeing at the Mound City is one of the top things in Chillicothe, Ohio.

7. Chillicothe Mall

Do you love shopping? Would you like to explore different stores in Chillicothe and shop for items you want? If yes, then you should visit the Chillicothe Mall.

Chillicothe Mall has a variety of stores and outlets in the mall, and it is a one-stop mall for essentials and luxury items you might need.

You will find lovely cloth boutiques, accessories stores, book stores, restaurants, grocery stores, cosmetic stores, toy stores, and many more at the mall. The stores at the mall are filled with different items for everyone.

So take your family or friends to the Chillicothe Mall for an exciting shopping spree. Shopping at the Chillicothe Mall is amongst the fun things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Address: 1075 N High St, Chillicothe, OH 45601

8. The Ross County Historical Society

The Ross County Historical Society Museum was established by the Ross County Historical Society, founded in 1896. This historical society aims to preserve, promote and educate people on the history of Ross County.

Have fun learning about the growth, development, and people of Ross County with your friends and family when you visit Ross County Historical Society Museum. There are three museums housed in the Ross County Historical Society building, together with a research library.

Explore the artifacts and exhibits displaying the history of Ross County and its districts like Chillicothe when you visit the museum or the research library.

If you wish to learn more about the history of Chillicothe, visit the library and look out for Pat Medert’s, History of Chillicothe.

Address: 45 W 5th St, Chillicothe, OH 45601-3227

Planning a road trip to Ohio? also, check out our list of things to do in Mansfield and things to do in Mason for a fun Ohio trip

9. The Majestic Theatre

The Majestic Theatre is another historical site in Chillicothe still in operation. The establishment of the Majestic Theatre, formerly the building of the Masonic Hall, marked the beginning of theatre and better entertainment in Chillicothe.

The theatre structure stands out with its classic architecture, and the theatre has a warm atmosphere and well stage set up for theatrical performances. Enjoy watching a stage play, musicals, magical concerts, and even comedy at the Majestic Theatre.

Attending events and theatrical performances at the Majestic Theatre is one of the best things to do in Chillicothe for a fun time. The Majestic Theatre is the home of classic entertainment in Chillicothe.

Address: 45 E 2nd St, Chillicothe, OH 45601-2543

10. (Earl Barnhart) Buzzards Roost Nature Preserve

(Earl Barnhart) Buzzards Roost Nature Preserve is a nature preserve in Ohio that covers over 1200 acres of the country’s most rugged and scenic parts. The preserve is a thick forest with unspoiled lands.

The nature preserve is a natural habitat for many plants and animals in Ohio. The nature preserve also has a 5 miles trail that passes through ponds, vernal pools, wooded ravines, and remains of an old homestead.

While you hike through the Buzzards Roost Nature Preserve trails, check out the South Point Lookout Trail. This trail offers you an enchanting view of the cliffs of sandstone and shale that descend into the beautiful Paint Creek Gorge.

Hiking at Earl H. Barnhart’s “Buzzard’s Roost” Nature Preserve trails is one of Chillicothe activities to add to your bucket list. While you hike, carefully observe the area for a unique species of plants and animals.

Address: 514 Red Bird Ln, Chillicothe, OH 45601-7553

11. Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau

When you go to the Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau, you will be given a Chillicothe guide handbook with crucial information you will need about places and things to explore. The booklet also contains a contact of these stores or businesses for further inquiries.

You can also attend exciting events at the Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau. The visitors center host a couple of seminars, workshops, and exhibitions in Chillicothe. The staff is friendly and nice, as they are willing to help you have a fun stay in Chillicothe.

A visit to Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau when you get to Chillicothe is one of the best things to do in Chillicothe. While at the visitor’s bureau, be sure to check out schedules for special events, festivals, shopping, and other exciting events in Chillicothe.

12. Danbarry Cinema – Chillicothe

Danbarry Cinema is a modern movie theatre with comfortable seats and a great concession stand.

Select snacks and food from various options at the concession stand before or after the show. Grab your movie tickets and get ready to be lost in the movies on screen. The concession stand has a variety of special combo deals for kids, individuals, and the whole family.

The staff at the Danbarry Cinema offer excellent customer service and are friendly to customers. Take your family to the cinema for an exciting movie date. 

Address: 119 Pawnee Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601-1770

13. Tecumseh! Outdoor Historical Drama

Tecumseh is one of the most widely acted and mesmerizing dramas in Ohio and the United States. The drama was written by Allan W. Eckert, a seven-time Pulitzer Prize nominee, and Emmy recipient.

Tecumseh is an epic story about the struggles of a Shawnee leader as he defends his homelands in Ohio during the late 1700s.

This story of the legendary Shawnee leader attracts many viewers from different destinations every summer. The play’s script is also said to be one of the best drama scripts. The outdoor drama is hosted yearly at the Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre.

The drama was first performed in 1973, and since then has had over 2.5 million visitors have witnessed this great outdoor play.

Tecumseh is conducted each summer from early June to late August. Do add watching Tecumsehto your list of top things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio, when you visit during summer.

Address: 5968 Marietta Rd Sugarloaf Mountain Amphitheatre, Chillicothe, OH 45601

14. Steiner’s Speakeasy

Do you love to drink beer with friends? Are you a big fan of handcraft beers? If yes, then you should visit Steiner’s Speakeasy in Chillicothe.

Steiner’s Speakeasy specializes in handcraft beer, premium wine, and other varieties of drinks. Enjoy every moment at the Steiner’s Speakeasy, tasting different craft beers and gist with friends.

There is an extensive craft beer selection to explore at the bar and prohibition-style cocktails to try out. The bar has a relaxed environment with friendly staff and lives music serenading the area. Live music comes on from Thursday to Saturday.

Watch local artists and other artists from different parts of the country perform as you have drinks at Steiner’s Speakeasy. Hanging out with friends or colleagues at Steiner’s Speakeasy makes one of the fun things to do in Chillicothe, OH, to add to your checklist.

Address: 31 S Paint St, Chillicothe, OH 45601-3211

15. Brick Haven Spa

Brick Haven Spa is a well-equipped luxury spa in Chillicothe, giving your body the best treatment when you visit the spa. Take your family and friends to the spa for a refreshing, healing moment.

At Brick Haven Spa, you can choose any unique treatments you want; hair, nails, skincare, and other unique body treatments are also available. Also, try out their specialized body massage for a wholesome relaxed feeling.

A visit to Brick Haven Spa with your loved ones is one of the top things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio. The spa is also equipped with only licensed therapists, so you do not have to worry.

In addition, you will find a Site Shower, Heated Massage Tables, and Hot Towels at the spa. Gift cards are available for your family or friends.

Address: 73 W Main St, Chillicothe, OH 45601-3104

Planning to explore Ohio? Get the best of attractions and activities in Cleveland, and Lima for a fun US vacation.

16. Wheatberry Books

Do you love reading? Are you love buying books and browsing through books? If yes, then you should visit the Wheatberry Books in Chillicothe.

Wheatberry Books is an independent bookstore with a nice selection of books for kids and adults to explore. At the book store, you will also find old and new books, and if you don’t see the book you want, walk up to an attendant, and they will get it for you.

When you visit the bookstore, you will find different rooms for different categories of books. For example, the children’s book room has books for different ages and genres. So take your kids to the Wheatberry Books and get them exciting books.

You can also shop for books for yourself while at the bookstore. Add exploring the book collections at the Wheatberry Books to your list of things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Address: 9 W 2nd St, Chillicothe, OH 45601-3111

17. Go Free Yourself Escape Room

Become your superhero when you uncover mysteries while playing thrilling escape games at the Go Free Yourself Escape Room in Chillicothe.

Take your family, friends, or colleagues to the Go Free Yourself Escape Room for an exciting game time. The escape room game is unlike other games, get to explore staged situations and solve problems as a team or only you.

At Go Free Yourself Escape Room, there are many adventurous escape games to explore. Some settings in the escape rooms are dungeons, prison cells, museums, and many more.

Playing escape games at Go Free Yourself Escape Room is among the fun things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Address: 14 Health Dr, Chillicothe, OH 45601-8604

18. Lloyd’s Sweet Shoppe

Give your kids a special treat at the Lloyd’s Sweet Shoppe when you visit Chillicothe with your family.

At Lloyd’s Sweet Shoppe, you will find different sweets, candies, and drinks. Allow your kids to go through the store and choose any of these sweeties they will love to have.

You will also find some sweeties for adults who do not take much sugar; there is a good candy for everyone. The Lloyd’s Sweet Shoppe also offers cakes, drinks, and other snacks, so stop by the shop when you visit Chillicothe.

A visit to Lloyd’s Sweet Shoppe is one of the best things to do with your kids in Chillicothe. Lloyd’s Sweet Shoppe is part of the Specialty Food Stores Industry, United States.

Address: 22 W Water St, Chillicothe, OH 45601-2421

19. Patrick’s Pub

Come with your friends and enjoy a fabulous evening of fun and drinks at Patrick’s Pub. The Pub environment is also great for a late-night hangout with friends.

At Patrick’s Pub, there are lots of games to keep you entertained and happy. You might want to check out the bar trivia and other fun games. The Pub also hosts live music by local artists and stand-up comedy by comedians in Chillicothe.

Patrick’s Pub is only open to persons above 21, so do come along with your identification card (I.D.) for access to the Pub. Hanging out with friends at Patrick’s Pub is one of the top things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Address: 20 N Plaza Blvd, Chillicothe, OH 45601-1757

20. Shawnee Lanes

Enjoy a fun bowling experience with your friends and family when visiting the Shawnee Lanes. Shawnee Lanes is a beautiful bowling center with lots of lighting on different corners.

At the Shawnee Lanes, provisions have been made for you to have fun with your family. There are bowling lanes for kids and adults.

The kids bowling lanes have plenty of bumpers to help them as they play. While the adult bowling lanes are made perfect for adults to have fun.

Aside from bowling at Shawnee Lanes, you can also host your birthday party and other small events at Shawnee Lanes. Bowling at Shawnee Lanes is one of the fun things to do in Chillicothe, Ohio, for your bucket list.

Address: 1680 N High St, Chillicothe, OH 45601

21. Dogwood Hills Golf Course

Dogwood Hills Golf Course is a unique tree-lined 18-Hole, Par 72 course in Chillicothe, Ohio. The golf course is uniquely made to test the skills and abilities of the golfer in the game. The golf course is one of the top golf courses in Chillicothe.

The Golf Course occupies about 6,500 yards and features a driving range, practice green, grille, and a pro shop. Enjoy exploring your skills on these 18-hole par 72 courses with a beautiful landscape. At Dogwood Hill, you will find professional trainers who will assist you as you play.

Dogwood Hills Golf Course is accessible to the public from Monday to Friday and selected times on Saturday and Sunday. Check out the fully stocked pro shop when you visit; you might get to see an item you have always wanted there.

Golfing at Dogwood Hill’s Golf Course is one of the best things in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Address: 1193 Debord Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601-9066

22. Waters Edge Canoe Livery

Experience a fun water trip adventure with Waters Edge Canoe Livery. Get your family or friends on board as you explore the waters of Southern Ohio.

Learn kayaking, canoeing, and fishing while on this mini-vacation trip on the waters with Waters Edge Canoe Livery. You can choose to either rent a canoe or boat for the trip or a tour guide by Waters Edge.

As you explore the waters, you will pass through stretches of long easygoing pools, shallow riffles, rocks, and logs. If you are good at fishing, make use of the moment to fish as you might get fortunate with your catch.

Going on a boat trip with Waters Edge Canoe Livery is one of the fun things to do in Chillicothe. Enjoy life around nature outside the city while you explore the waters on this trip, come along with your food and drinks for a relaxed picnic when you get to the island.

Address: 10807 State Route 772, Chillicothe, OH 45601-8567

23. Old Town Fabric Shop

Shop for unique and beautiful fabrics at the Old Town Fabric Shop when visiting Chillicothe, Ohio.

Old Town Fabric Shop is a local fabric shop that offers a wide selection of Cotton, quilting fabrics, polyesters, flannels, and many more. The fabric shop has over 3,000 bolts of first quality cotton and designer fabrics.

The fabric store is a family business run by mother – Cindy Henderson and daughter – Kelly Battistin. Both Kelly and Cindy work together to fill the store with a variety of modern and traditional fabrics that will blow your mind.

At the Old Town Fabric Shop, you will find first quality unique quilt material products like Cotton and steel, Moda, Marcus, Hoffman, etc. You will also find some beautiful antique accessories when you explore the store.

Address: 56 W Water St, Chillicothe, OH 45601-2421

24. Chillicothe Railroad Museum

Do you adore the wonders and excitement of trains? Or are railway museums your thing? Visit the Chillicothe Railroad Museum next to view and discover all the intriguing artifacts on display.

The Chillicothe Railroad Museum is located in two abandoned cabooses inside Yoctangee Park. One has been meticulously rebuilt to resemble what it was in 1927.

Both B&O cabooses—a C-2115 and a C-3893—can be toured, and both are filled with historical railroad memorabilia and items.

Learn about the function of cabooses in earlier train travel as you explore historical railway travel. The exhibits also feature a model train with a hamlet set up, a map of the B&O railroad from 1900, a B&O engine bell, and morse code gear, so take it.

You can access the museum, which is open every day of the week! 10 am to 4 pm, Monday through Friday, and 12 pm to 3 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Address: Paint St. & E Water St, Chillicothe, OH 45601, USA

25. Mighty Children’s Museum

Chillicothe’s first children’s museum is the Mighty Children’s Museum. As the facility’s name suggests, it is devoted to children making it a fantastic place to bring your kids. 

It was founded by three mothers who share a deep love for kids and want to provide the finest chances for the youngsters in the neighborhood. The founders were motivated to start this Museum in Chillicothe by how other nearby communities were able to empower their kids.

With time, the Museum community grew and became stronger. For kids and families, they aim to provide a play-based learning environment that is enjoyable and engaging.

Additionally, they have exhibits and learning stations that foster the growth of creativity while enabling self-directed learning to encourage innovation, divergent thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Here, you and your kids will have so much fun while absorbing lots of knowledge. Early learning experiences, according to research, are essential for academic achievement.

Address: 21 E 4th St, Chillicothe, OH 45601, USA

26. 50 West Brewing Company

Visit 50 West Brewing Company and enjoy delicious pints of well-crafted beers with your pals and loved ones.

The establishment is located in the center of downtown Chillicothe. They have a wide range of beers and canning equipment on site in case you want to take some of their popular on-tap craft beers with you. 

In addition to being a terrific destination for beer, it is also a convenient restaurant that serves affordable, delectable food like burgers, milkshakes, and much more that you can enjoy while sipping your beer. 

The atmosphere at the establishment is lively and warm, with indoor and outdoor seating options, excellent customer service, and helpful personnel who are always on hand and prepared to accept your orders.

You may also have a great time by checking out their game area up top, which includes many activities like darts.

Address: 1 N Paint St, Chillicothe, OH 45601, USA

27. Lucy Webb Hayes Heritage Center

Explore the Lucy Webb Hayes Heritage Center while visiting Chillicothe, Ohio, and see all the preserved artifacts in the renovated house.

Lucy Webb, who would go on to marry Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th President of the United States, was born in this four-room, center-hall Federal-style house.

Five exhibits filled with Hayes memorabilia and antique furniture are in the parlor and bedroom.

With a small fee, you can join the guided tours through the former home of Lucy Ware Webb Hayes, available Fridays and Saturdays from 1–4 pm.

Address: 90 W 6th St, Chillicothe, OH 45601, USA

Check out more cities in Ohio, here is a list of things to do in Findlay, things to do in Columbus, and things to do in Athens for a fun time in this city.

Plan a trip to Chillicothe

Chillicothe is an exciting city with lots of fun activities to enjoy with your friends or family. The Mound City in Hopewell Culture National Historical Park is an international attraction and a must-visit in Chillicothe.

Explore the city while visiting the museums, malls, historical sites, pubs, parks, restaurants, game centers, hotels, etc.

Visit the Adena historical site, Shawnee lanes, Scioto Trail State Park, Buzzards Roost Nature Preserve, Dogwood Hill Golf Course, Steiner’s Speakeasy, Brick Haven Spa, and many more exciting places to explore the principal city.

Start planning a fun trip to Chillicothe with your travel buddies.