Points of Interest between Athens, Ohio to Wilmington, Ohio

picture of Athens, Ohio

The Best Road Trip: Athens, Ohio to Wilmington, Ohio

From the charming university town of Athens to the quaint city of Wilmington, this road trip through Ohio's scenic countryside is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and appreciate the beauty of the Buckeye State. Here are the top places to see when driving from Athens, Ohio to Wilmington, Ohio.

Start Your Journey in Athens

Athens is a picturesque town in southeastern Ohio nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, renowned for its natural beauty, historic charm, and vibrant arts and cultural scene. Start your journey through Ohio at Athens and take time to explore the town's unique attractions.

  1. Ohio University. Founded in 1804, Ohio University is the oldest university in Ohio and the ninth-oldest public university in the United States. Take a stroll through the sprawling campus and see its iconic landmarks, including the College Green, Cutler Hall, and Baker University Center.

  2. Hocking Hills State Park. Just a short drive from Athens, Hocking Hills State Park is a breathtaking wilderness area known for its rugged cliffs, deep gorges, rushing waterfalls, and lush forests. Take a hike through the park's numerous trails and see its stunning natural features, including Old Man's Cave, Cedar Falls, and Ash Cave.

Continue Your Journey to Chillicothe

After leaving Athens, head northwest on US-50 and make your way to Chillicothe, a historic city that served as the capital of Ohio from 1803 to 1810. Take time to explore its rich heritage and see its notable landmarks.

  1. Adena Mansion & Gardens. The Adena Mansion & Gardens is a stunning Georgian mansion built in 1807 and the former home of Thomas Worthington, one of Ohio's first senators. Explore its elegant rooms and lush gardens and learn about the mansion's fascinating history.

  2. Hopewell Culture National Historical Park. The Hopewell Culture National Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves the largest collection of earthen mounds and geometric earthworks of the ancient Hopewell culture. Take a guided tour of the park and see its impressive mounds and burial sites.

End Your Journey in Wilmington

From Chillicothe, continue your journey west on US-50 and make your way to Wilmington, a small city located in southwestern Ohio. With its charming downtown district, scenic parks, and rich cultural offerings, Wilmington is a great place to end your Ohio road trip.

  1. Clinton County Historical Society. The Clinton County Historical Society is a museum that showcases the history of the county and its people, with exhibits that range from Native American artifacts to vintage automobiles. It also houses the Murphy Theatre, an Art Deco-style theater that hosts concerts, plays, and other cultural events.

  2. Cow Antics. Cow Antics is a quirky art installation located in Wilmington that features more than 30 fiberglass cows adorned with colorful designs and whimsical accessories. Take a stroll through the city and see its impressive cow sculptures that are sure to put a smile on your face.

Conclusion

The road trip from Athens, Ohio to Wilmington, Ohio is a great way to experience the charm and natural beauty of Ohio. From the stunning wilderness of Hocking Hills State Park to the historic landmarks of Chillicothe, this journey is sure to create unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags and hit the road for a memorable Ohio adventure.