Attractions and Places To See in Ashland County - Top 6

Ashland County, Ohio, offers a wealth of outdoor experiences. Key natural features include Mohican State Park and State Forest, known for extensive hiking trails, scenic views, and water activities. The Ashland County Park District also manages several parks like Audubon Wetlands Preserve, Freer Field, and River Walk Natural Area, providing opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and nature appreciation. Additionally, Pleasant Hill Lake Park and Charles Mill Lake Park are popular for boating, fishing, and camping.

Yes, Ashland County has a rich history. The Ashland County Historical Society preserves the region's past across four historic buildings: the Manor House, Noonan House, Freer Home, and Clark Carriage House, featuring exhibits on local history and veterans. You can also explore the Center Street Historic District in Ashland, known for its Victorian-style buildings and antique shops, including the 1893 Shinn House.

Families can enjoy a variety of attractions. Honey Haven Farm offers a market, greenhouse, and seasonal events like a Fall Festival with a pumpkin patch and corn maze. Grandpa's Cheesebarn & Sweeties Chocolates is a fun stop for local treats. Many parks within the Ashland County Park District, such as Freer Field and River Walk Natural Area, are great for walks and picnics. Mohican State Park also provides family-friendly outdoor adventures like hiking and canoeing.

Mohican State Park and State Forest is a prime destination for hiking, offering numerous trails with scenic views, including Big Lyons Falls and Hemlock Falls. The Ashland County Park District also provides hiking opportunities at Audubon Wetlands Preserve, Freer Field, River Walk Natural Area, and Byers Woods, which feature diverse landscapes from wetlands to old-growth forests.

For unique local flavors, visit Grandpa's Cheesebarn & Sweeties Chocolates, a family-owned store offering local cheeses and other foods. Uniontown Brewing Company in downtown Ashland is a local brewery and restaurant. Honey Haven Farm also has a market with local produce and goods.

Ashland County offers several excellent spots for wildlife viewing. The Audubon Wetlands Preserve is a 215-acre park with trails perfect for observing frogs, various bird species, and wildflowers. River Walk Natural Area, situated along the Jerome Fork of the Mohican River, is home to diverse wildlife including turtles, river otters, and deer. Byers Woods and Cooke Family Wildlife Conservation Park are also known for bird-watching and spotting animals like beavers.

You can enjoy various water activities at Pleasant Hill Lake Park and Charles Mill Lake Park, both popular for boating, fishing, and camping. The River Walk Natural Area along the Jerome Fork of the Mohican River offers river access for canoeing and kayaking. Mohican State Park also provides opportunities for canoeing and fishing.

Yes, Ashland County hosts several notable events. The Ashland BalloonFest is a popular community event often held at Freer Field. The Ashland Chautauqua is an annual event blending history, music, and culture with performances and storytelling. The Ashland County Fairgrounds also hosts various events throughout the year.

Ashland County offers cultural experiences through its art and entertainment venues. Ashland University's Coburn Art Gallery features rotating exhibits of contemporary art. The Ashland Symphony Orchestra provides classical music performances, and The Ashland Theatre is a renovated venue for various entertainment. The Ashland Regional Ballet also presents a performing season.

Mohican State Park and State Forest offers several scenic viewpoints, including the Mohican Gorge Overlook and the Mohican Fire Tower Overlook, providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape. Many trails within the park system also lead to picturesque spots, especially during the fall foliage season.

Yes, Mohican State Park and State Forest is a premier destination for mountain biking, offering extensive trails suitable for enthusiasts. Byers Woods also provides trails that can be used for biking, in addition to hiking and bird-watching.

For those seeking adventure, AerOhio Skydiving Center offers skydiving experiences. If you prefer indoor challenges, Masterminds Escape Room & Game Library provides interactive entertainment. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy an 18-hole championship course at Ashland Golf Club.