Secret Ohio: 23 Hidden Gems
We went in search of surprising spots, unusual attractions and fascinating discoveries hidden in plain sight across the state. Here’s how you can, too.
The small-town grave of the winningest pitcher in Major League Baseball history ... A room that will transport you to the other side of the world ... Intriguing details hidden within the design of our magnificent Ohio Statehouse ... Hidden-away spots in the Hocking Hills ... there’s much to discover and uncover as you explore the Buckeye State — and the more you look, the more you find. Here are 23 tucked-away treasures that’ll inspire you to take a closer look at our state.
The Damascus Room: The Cincinnati Art Museum houses a room that Andrew N. Jergens purchased in 1932 while traveling through the Middle East and had reassembled here.
The Healing Chapel: This tiny roadside church in Coolville started as a labor of love and continues as a place of quiet meditation and prayer for travelers.
View from the Adena Mansion: The vista immortalized on Ohio’s official seal was inspired by a real place in Chillicothe, our state’s first capital.
Cy Young’s Grave: The man whose name is synonymous with Major League Baseball pitching excellence is buried in Tuscarawas County.
Secrets of the Ohio Statehouse: The seat of our state government is filled with beautiful touches and hidden bits of history that can be discovered by way of daily tours.
The Keeper’s House: Marblehead Lighthouse gets all the attention, but you can also visit the 1822 home where the landmark’s first three keepers resided.
Lourdes Grotto: After visiting Europe in 1932, Bishop Karl Alter spearheaded the construction of a replica of France’s famous Lourdes Grotto in the tiny town of Genoa.
Gilboa Quarry: Mike Williams’ former limestone quarry in Putnam County offers divers an opportunity to explore submerged aircraft and spot a variety of fish species.
James A. Rhodes State Office Tower Observation Deck: The 40th floor of this downtown Columbus office tower offers great views across our capital city.
Johnson’s Island: This island off the Marblehead Peninsula held more than 10,000 Confederate officers and soldiers as a prisoner-of-war depot. Some remain there to this day.
Secret Ohio: Food & Drink: These hidden-away spots may take a little more work to find, but they’re well worth it.
Hidden Hocking Hills: It’s no secret this region of southeast Ohio is our year-round playground, but these three out-of-the-way sites promise a fresh perspective.
League Park: Babe Ruth swatted dozens of home runs at this former home of the Cleveland Indians. Today, visitors can still walk in the footsteps of the greats.
Queen City Underground Tour: Cincinnati has a long history that comes to light once you delve into the secrets of the city’s Over-the-Rhine neighborhood.
Secret Ohio: Public Art: These interesting and intriguing works tell a story of the people and place they call home.
Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument: Downtown Cleveland’s memorial to Cuyahoga County’s Civil War veterans is a reminder of the role Ohioans had in helping preserve the Union.
Clifton Garden Cabin: This cozy, two-level cabin within walking distance of the iconic Clifton Mill offers a stay that’s part home and part garden.
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