Learn about the Buffalo Soldiers' role during the Civil War by stopping at Charles Young Buffalo National Monument. This monument near Xenia, Ohio, was created on April 2, 2013, to commemorate Charles Young's life. Watch the short film about this man's remarkable life as he became an important military figure during the war and continued to serve until 1903 when he became the first African American National Park Superintendent and the first Military Attaché to Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Take the cell phone tour to learn more about this property that Charles Young purchased while serving as a university professor at Wilberforce University.
You will not want to miss a second of exploring Southern Ohio as there are so many fascinating places to see and things to do. Pack up your RV, and head that way very soon. If you do not have one, find the perfect option to rent on RVshare.com.
Take the cell phone tour to learn more about Charles Young's home and his outstanding accomplishments. The house is open by appointment. Inside, you can see items belonging to Mr. Young and other historical artifacts.
Hiking TrailsThe Perimeter Loop Trail winds its way around the lake at Caesar Creek State Park. It crosses a 120-foot swinging suspension bridge. You can hike the whole way or choose to start or end where the trail crosses Ohio 73 near the dam.
Caesar Creek State Park 8570 OH-73, Waynesville, Ohio 45068
12.4 Miles
Moderate
The Pittsburgh-Cincinnati Stage Coach Trail runs through John Bryan State Park. The beginning of this trail follows the Little Miami State and National Scenic River with lots of fallen logs along its edge so that you can sit and watch the water flow by. The next part of the trail offers stunning views of cliffs. The end of this trail lies near three other routes, so you can extend your hike if desired.
John Bryant State Park 3790 OH-370, Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
1.4 Miles
Easy
The John L. Rich Trail is a figure-eight trail in John Bryan State Park. Consider doing the strenuous lower part running through a gorge first. Then, return to do the upper part of the trail, where you can often see waterfalls and find caves to explore.
John Bryant State Park 3790 OH-370, Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
1.5 Miles
Moderate
SightseeingExplore the gorge created by the Little Miami State and National Scenic River at Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve. There are many areas to enjoy a picnic under hemlock, red baneberry, Canada yew, arborvitae, and mountain maple trees. This area is stunning in the spring when the wildflowers are blooming. You may even see the rare snow trillium in bloom in the late spring and early summer.
2381 State Route 343 Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
Explore one of the best fen meadows in the state by going to the John F. Gallagher Fen State Nature Preserve. Then, explore the oak savannah sitting just above the fen meadows. This location is a terrific place to visit if you want to see birds.
4709 Old Columbus Road, Springfield, Ohio 45502
MuseumsThis museum chronicles the history of Afro-Americans. Many of the hands-on exhibits focus on the role of Afro-Americans within the state. Get a taste of Afro-American music by watching a film featuring many of the singers.
1350 Brush Row Road, Wilberforce, Ohio 45384
The Trailside Museum at Glen Helen Nature Preserve showcases the relationship between man and the natural environment. Guided hikes through the preserve are often free, and they occur frequently. This preserve is a great place to learn more about the birds in the area.
Glen Helen Nature Preserve Little Miami Scenic Trail, Yellow Springs, Ohio 45387
Nearby Shops and RestaurantsFind the perfect new outfit at Gypsy-Ally Boutique. They also carry a wide range of bath and beauty products. If farmhouse, vintage, retro, or shabby chic is your style, you will adore the unique home décor items.
56 E Main Street, Xaviar, Ohio 45385
If you love to window shop, then Rusty and Chippy's VB LLC is a stop you will not want to miss because you never know what antiques or vintage items will be in the shop. The business also builds French-inspired furniture from reclaimed wood.
66 S Detroit Street, Xaviar, Ohio 45385
The pay-it-forward concept is behind One Bristo, where each guest pays what he or she can afford. Find outstanding hamburgers, BLTs, and other sandwiches. One Bristo also serves exceptional salads and pizza. You will not want to miss the Saturday brunches that feature omelets, breakfast sandwiches, and potato hash.
87 E Main Street, Xaviar, Ohio 45385
The Grill on the Hill is an ideal lunch spot. This restaurant at the WGC Golf Course features hot dogs, hamburgers, and chicken nuggets. The friendly atmosphere and efficient staff make this an enjoyable dining experience.
WGC Golf Course 944 Country Club Dr, Xenia, Ohio 45385
You can easily reach Charles Young Buffalo Soldiers National Monument from Dayton, Ohio. Follow Interstate 35, and take Exit 42 onto Interstate 675 North. Take Exit 20 to get onto Dayton Yellow Springs Road. Turn right onto Ohio 235 South, and turn another right onto US 68 South. Turn left on Brush Row Road and right on Stevenson Road. Finally, turn right on US 42 North, and the house will be on your left.
1120 US-42, Xenia, Ohio 45385
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person)
There is no entry fee.
The eclectic home of Charles Young was made into a national monument by President Barack Obama in 2013. Stroll around the property or call ahead for a weekend tour of the house. There is a lot to do in the area, so bring your RV. If you do not have an RV, find perfect options to rent on RVshare.com.
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