Adena Mansion & Gardens

Chillicothe is the first capital city of Ohio and it later moved to the city of Columbus. Additionally, Adena Mansion & Gardens was the first governor’s mansion built in Ohio. The visitor center offers a nice tour of the mansion. Also, I would plan for a couple of hours to visit the mansion and take the tour.

Tecumseh outdoor drama

Tecumseh is a seasonal outdoor play. It details the life of the famous Native American, Tecumseh. Unfortunately, I did not get any pictures of the outdoor set as I was watching the play (and watching kids). However, you can find pictures on their website. It is a beautiful setting, and my daughter was excited to find a praying mantis.

Additionally, it is definitely worth seeing if you are in the area during the warmer months. However, there are loud noises (gunshots) during the story, which might startle younger children.

Great Seal State Park

Great Seal State Park (and state park site) includes an overlook that inspired the Ohio State seal (a grass field). Additionally, there is a fun storybook trail located at the park.

There are other storybook trails in other areas of Ohio as well. You can hike the short trail and read a short story on markers. This particular trail features the Cherokee story, “The First Strawberries”. It is a humorous story about a wife who leaves her husband, who lures her back with strawberries. Also, the trail only takes about 20 minutes to complete.

Hopewell earthen mounds

There are numerous earthen mounds scattered across this area of Ohio. Hopewell Culture National Historic Park is located just north of Chillicothe. Additionally, it is part of the NPS system. The visitor center has a passport book stamp as well. Also, it is located right next to the local jail.

Additionally, there are other mound sites further from Chillicothe tied to the Hopewell site. The Hopewell Mound Group is just west of Chillicothe. Also, the Seip Earthworks is 16 miles southwest of Chillicothe on route 50.

Serpent Mound

The Serpent Mound is the largest  effigy mound in the world. It is located about 45 miles southwest of Chillicothe or 70 miles east of Cincinnati. Additionally, the visitor center details the history and mystery of this site. Be sure to check the website for tours.

Terry’s Grocery and pizza

Terry’s Grocery and Pizza is known for their over-the-top ice cream creations. The giant ice cream is expensive. Your children will not come close to finishing it. However, princess, mermaid, as well as many others themes – it can be hard to choose!

ALSO CONSIDER VISITING THESE NEARBY AREAS

Check out Cincinnati, Columbus and Hocking Hills State Park. Also, be sure to check out the other sights in the Midwest Region!