Things To Do Near Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park provides a unique opportunity to explore a fascinating Native American culture. The five earthwork sites are the main attraction; you can hike through the fields and check out reconstructed mounds. The local area offers plenty to do for the whole family in the way of museums, shopping, and dining.
Hiking Trails
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Hopeton Earthworks Trails
The trails at the Hopeton Earthworks offer a close-up look at ancient Native American structures. The trails meander through the remains of historic earthen walls, taking you through the forests and fields as they go. Check out the self-guided tour signs, which educate you about the history and purpose of the sight. Although many of the structures are gone, the clever mowing pattern makes it easy to imagine the scale and size of each one.
Location
1138-1286 Hopetown Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601
Length
Varies
Intensity
Easy
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Seip Earthworks Trails
Many years ago, Seip Earthworks featured a variety of enormous geometric earthen mounds. Although the exact purpose remains a mystery, the design featured astronomical elements that hint at a sophisticated knowledge of the heavens. The main Seip Mound has been reconstructed to look as it might have in centuries past, offering a peek at the lives of the Hopewell people. The trails around the site are mostly flat, with grassy surfaces that are great for kids.
Location
U.S. Route 50, southwest of Chillicothe, Ohio, in Bainbridge, Ohio. Seip Earthworks is located directly next to Paint Valley High School.
Length
Varies
Intensity
Easy
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Hopewell Mound Group Trails
Get a sense of the remarkable scale of the Hopewell earthworks at the Hopewell Mound Group. From the trail, you can look across the fields and imagine how much work it took to transport dirt and shape the walls. The entire site is approximately 2,800 feet long, and at one point, the walls were up to 35 feet thick. Interpretive signs on the trail bring to life the complexity of the design and the engineering expertise that went into construction.
Location
16062 OH-104, Chillicothe, OH 45601
Length
2.5 Miles Round Trip
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Mound City Group
Once you've hiked around the mounds at the original Native American sites at Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, head over to the Mound City Group. Here, park staff have recreated a set of mounds in different sizes and shapes. This is a great place to learn about the Hopewell culture and discover what archaeologists have unearthed over the years.
Location
16062 State Route 104, Chillicothe, OH 45601
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Spruce Hill Earthworks
Spruce Hill Earthworks is one of the most challenging sites to access at Hopewell Culture National Historical Park. This enormous site is surrounded by a low perimeter wall with mysterious heat marks that were made by a source that was much hotter than a standard campfire. The site isn't open to the public every day, but you can take a guided tour with a ranger; check the park's calendar for upcoming events.
Location
576 Spruce Hill Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601
Museums
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Adena Mansion & Gardens Historic Site
Discover what life was like for the well-to-do in the 1800s at the Adena Mansion & Gardens Historic Site. This mansion, which was once home to Thomas Worthington, a governor, and senator from Ohio, sits on a beautiful 300-acre lot. The interior has been furnished and decorated with authentic 1800s-era pieces, offering an immersive experience. In the visitor center, you'll find a variety of exhibits about local history and the Worthington family.
Location
847 Adena Rd, Chillicothe, OH 45601
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Chillicothe Railroad Museum
If you're looking for a fast and fun day trip, check out the Chillicothe Railroad Museum. All of the exhibits are located inside two cabooses, giving you a chance to explore a historic train and get an education at the same time. You'll only need 30-60 minutes to check out the museum, so it's a good option if you have kids. There's even a model train.
Location
Paint Street and Water Street, Chillicothe, OH 45601
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Mighty Children's Museum
Join local families and tourists at the Mighty Children's Museum. Here, all of the exhibits are interactive, and there are options for kids of all ages. The museum focuses on STEM content, covering topics such as music, a vacuum-powered tree, a pretend hospital, a huge water table, and more. The Dig Site lets little ones dig for ancient Native American artifacts, preparing them for a more exciting experience at the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park.
Location
21 E 4th St, Chillicothe, OH 45601
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Bridge Street Craft Mall & More
Find everything from locally made art to antiques at Bridge Street Craft Mall & More. This unique spot offers a staggering variety of items, including craft supplies, home decor, and Ohio-themed gifts.
Location
1525 N Bridge St, Chillicothe, OH 45601
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American Vintage Warehouse
If you're an antique collector, plan to spend at least an hour at American Vintage Warehouse. Packed with an ever-changing, eclectic supply of vintage goods, it has something for every taste.
Location
213 E Water St, Chillicothe, OH 45601
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Mom's Bait Shop
If you're planning to go fishing in the many rivers and streams near Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, Mom's Bait Shop has all of the supplies you need. Pick up live bait, fishing line, reels, and more.
Location
19264 50west, Chillicothe, OH 45601
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Hana Japanese Steakhouse
With its large and varied menu, the Hana Japanese Steakhouse offers plenty of delicious options for lunch and dinner. Try a sushi feast, or indulge in dishes like udon noodles or filet mignon.
Location
1015 N Bridge St, Chillicothe, OH 45601
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Old Canal Smoke House
Experience Ohio history at the Old Canal Smoke House, which is located inside a building that was built in the 1800s. The smoked meats are the star of the show — try the smoked ribs and hand-pulled pork. You can also get burgers, sandwiches, and steak.
Location
94 E Water St, Chillicothe, OH 45601