Top 10 Instagrammable Places in Portsmouth–Scioto County, Ohio

Apr 20

3 min read

If you think you need a big city for stunning Instagram content, Portsmouth–Scioto County might surprise you. Nestled along the Ohio River, this region blends historic charm, rugged nature, and artistic expression—making it a goldmine for photographers and creators.

Here are 10 must-visit, camera-ready spots you won’t want to miss:

1. Portsmouth Floodwall Murals

Woman with a dog poses in front of a colorful vintage city mural featuring signage like Sears and Bank. She waves, exuding a cheerful mood. — Posing in front your favorite mural for a fun picture is always a fun way to immerse yourself in the artwork!

This is the crown jewel of Portsmouth’s visual identity. Stretching along the riverfront, these massive murals tell the story of the city—from Native American history to industrial growth. Every panel feels like stepping into a different era.

📷 Photo tip: Frame yourself mid-walk with multiple murals behind you for a dynamic storytelling shot.

2. Shawnee State Park (Turkey Creek & Roosevelt Lake)

Person kayaking in a white kayak on a greenish river, surrounded by lush green trees and forest. Calm and peaceful scene. — Gliding along the waters of Turkey Creek and Roosevelt Lakes provide for excellent photo opportunities!

Often called the “Little Smokies of Ohio,” this park delivers rolling hills, dense forest, and serene lakes. Turkey Creek offers more rugged, natural textures, while Roosevelt Lake gives you calm reflections and soft light.

📷 Photo tip: Capture misty mornings over the lake for dreamy, atmospheric content.

3. Confluence of the Scioto River and Ohio River

Overcast sky over a river with a distant steel bridge, flanked by green hills and trees. The mood is peaceful and serene. — The confluence of the Scioto and Ohio Rivers provide for some beautiful photos!

Where two rivers meet, magic happens. This spot offers expansive water views and a peaceful, almost cinematic feel—perfect for minimalist or reflective shots.

📷 Photo tip: Shoot from a low angle to emphasize the merging waterlines.

4. U.S. Grant Bridge

Four women in summer dresses walk along a riverside path, smiling. A large cable-stayed bridge and lush hills are in the background. — Walking along the riverfront and posing a picture near the Grant Bridge is a great photo op!

This iconic bridge connects Ohio and Kentucky—and lights up beautifully at night. Its structure creates bold lines and symmetry, making it ideal for modern, urban-style photography.

📷 Photo tip: Try a long-exposure shot at dusk for glowing light trails.

5. Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center

The architecture of the Southern Ohio Museum is great for photo ops!
Checking out the art displays like this one of the Hopewell artifacts.

Art meets architecture here. From rotating exhibits to the museum’s exterior design, this location offers both indoor creativity and outdoor elegance.

📷 Photo tip: Use the building’s clean lines as a backdrop for fashion or portrait shots.

6. Raven Rock

Person stands on a rock ledge with arms outstretched, overlooking lush green valley and hills under a partly cloudy sky. — Standing atop of Raven Rock and overlooking the Ohio River Valley is always rewarding!

For dramatic views, this is your spot. Raven Rock overlooks miles of forested hills, offering one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the region.

📷 Photo tip: Stand near the overlook edge (safely) for a wide, epic landscape shot.

7. Otway Covered Bridge

Otway Covered Bridge in Otway, OH.
A view from the inside of the Otway Covered Bridge

A hidden gem with timeless charm. This classic wooden bridge is especially photogenic in fall, surrounded by warm colors and rustic scenery.

📷 Photo tip: Use the bridge’s interior framing to create depth in your shot.

8. Portsmouth Earthworks Sites (Tremper Mound & Mound Park)

A monument that shows the full Portsmouth Earthworks Complex at Mound Park.
The outline of Tremper Mound as made by interpretive mowing.

These ancient Native American earthworks are both mysterious and visually striking. The geometric shapes and historical significance add a unique storytelling element to your feed.

📷 Photo tip: Elevated angles or wide shots help capture the scale and patterns.

9. Copperhead Fire Tower

Copperhead Fire Tower located in Shawnee State Forest.
A look out from the windows of the Copperhead Fire Tower in Shawnee State Forest.

If you’re up for a little adventure, this fire tower rewards you with unmatched panoramic views. It’s one of the best vantage points in Southern Ohio and truly shows you why this area is known as the "Little Smokies of Ohio."

📷 Photo tip: Capture the climb or shoot from the top for dramatic “above it all” content.

10. 535 on Second

Hand holds a cup with blue text in a rustic courtyard. Yellow flowers in a black urn, string lights, and tables in the sunlit setting.

Located in the Boneyfiddle Historic District of Portsmouth, 525 on Second transforms a once-abandoned façade into a vibrant pocket park full of character. Its historic brick backdrop, stained glass, wrought iron details, and colorful flower displays make it a natural photo magnet in Scioto County, Ohio.

📷 Photo tip: For a standout shot, shoot from a slightly lower angle during golden hour or just after sunset so the historic façade frames your subject and the stained glass and flowers glow with added depth.