Blog Post by Portsmouth-Scioto County Local, Tabby P. I’ve visited Candyland Children’s Museum in Portsmouth, Ohio often with my kids, so when it came time to plan my youngest child’s birthday party last year, renting the space felt like a good fit. After a positive experience, I decided to rent it again this year. There are many positives to renting out Candyland for a birthday party. I personally love where Candyland is located. Candyland is in the historic Boneyfiddle District in downtown Portsmouth and is convenient location for guests. Guests will have the opportunity before or after the party to enjoy other local business in the area and explore some of what Scioto County has to offer. Given our busy schedules with sports, work, and errands, I appreciate the flexibility in booking times that are provided when scheduling a party. Currently, Candyland offers Fridays from 6:00–8:00 p.m., Saturdays from 5:00–7:00 p.m., and Sundays from 4:00–6:00 p.m., which work well for families with different schedules. One feature that truly excites kids is the ability to add a character visit. For an additional fee families can choose up to two characters to attend party for 30 minutes. As of January 2026, the available characters Candyland offers are Bluey and Bingo from Bluey; Rubble, Chase, Skye, and Marshall from Paw Patrol; and Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach from Mario. This adds an extra layer of excitement and makes the celebration even more memorable for kids. Another thing I love that Candyland is an indoor, climate-controlled space. My youngest child has a spring birthday, and the weather during that time of year can be unpredictable. Having an indoor venue eliminates the stress of worrying about rain or cold temperatures and ensures that children and adults can enjoy the party comfortably, no matter what the weather. When you rent the space, the museum is closed to the public for two hours, and during that time kids are welcome to explore all three floors. This gives them plenty of space to play, move around, and enjoy different activities without feeling crowded. Guests can bring their own decorations and food, with everything set up in a designated party room that has plenty of space to sit, eat, and take breaks. Staff are available downstairs if questions come up, which helps the event run smoothly. Candyland Children’s Museum offers a fun and practical option for birthday parties. It’s easy to plan, works well for any season birthday, and gives children a space they genuinely enjoy.

Planning a special event or gathering? Scioto County offers an array of versatile and charming venues that cater to your every need. From historic spaces to picturesque settings, this guide will help you discover the perfect space for your next occasion. Space Rentals Scioto County Welcome Center Nestled in the heart of Portsmouth, the Scioto County Welcome Center is a versatile space that's ideal for meetings, workshops, and smaller events. With modern amenities and a central location, it offers convenience and a touch of local charm for intimate gatherings. For small gatherings and meetings (~20 people max), contact the Portsmouth-Scioto County Visitors Bureau to book the Board Room. For larger gatherings (over 20 people), we recommend booking the banquet halls. Contact Community Action of Scioto County to inquire about the banquet halls. Holiday Inn Portsmouth For larger events and conferences, consider the Holiday Inn Portsmouth. With flexible event spaces, state-of-the-art technology, and professional event planning services, this venue ensures that your occasion is executed flawlessly. Shawnee Park Lodge and Conference Center Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center is a spacious and comfortable retreat. With the beautiful scenic setting of Shawnee State Park, the elegant and functional meeting facilities, and professional staff, Shawnee Lodge and Conference Center is the perfect place for your next business meeting, retreat, conference, wedding, or special family event. Bentley Family Farms For a rustic yet elegant touch, Bentley Family Farms offers a picturesque farm setting that's perfect for weddings, reunions, and outdoor celebrations. The farm's serene surroundings and charming barn create a magical ambiance that complements any event. 14th Street Community Center Whether you are conducting a big event or a small event, the 14th Street Community Center will fit any event needs. From classroom-sized rooms for trainings to banquet halls for conferences, the community center is perfect for all types of events. Marting's Nothing brings family and friends together like a celebration! Make those special moments even more unforgettable by hosting your big event at Marting's. From weddings, to corporate events, to special occasions, our unique space and flexible floor plans will turn your vision into reality. Let’s celebrate life’s greatest milestones! Celebrations on the River in Sciotoville Celebrations on the River in Sciotoville offers a unique waterfront setting that's perfect for weddings, parties, and special gatherings. With breathtaking river views and a spacious event space, it's an unforgettable venue for those looking to infuse their event with natural beauty. Lakeside Venue in Portsmouth Experience the tranquility of Lakeside Venue in Portsmouth, offering a serene lakeside setting for weddings, corporate events, and more. The combination of scenic views and open spaces creates a backdrop that's both relaxing and inspiring. Blackburn Acres Nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Scioto County, Blackburn Acres is a charming rustic barn venue that sets the stage for unforgettable events. From weddings to birthday parties and family reunions, this picturesque setting offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for gatherings filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories. Photography Web Design & Much More LLC Photography Web Design & Much More... offers everything from same-day weddings to Venue and Video Production and so much more! Call 614 409 9594 to schedule today! The Vault Gaming Center The Vault Gaming Center is a free-entry esports lounge and event-ready gaming + café venue in downtown Portsmouth at 317 Chillicothe Street, across from Shawnee State University. Rent the space for birthday parties, meetings, team get-togethers, community fundraisers, and group events—our staff can help host and keep everything running smoothly. Guests can play on high-end PCs, modern consoles, and VR stations, and enjoy on-site food like pizza (including a signature curry pizza), wings, subs, snacks, and drinks, with group food options available. Call (740) 205-8622, text (740) 370-9667, or email info@thevaultohio.com Event Transportation Rivertown Transport Rivertown Transport offers safe, stylish, and seamless transportation for life's most memorable moments. Whether it’s weddings, wine tours, concerts, or other special events, their team is ready to take the wheel while clients enjoy the ride. Serving Portsmouth, OH, and the surrounding region, they prioritize elegance and ease in every journey. Pro Tips for Choosing the Perfect Space: Plan Ahead: Reserve your chosen space well in advance to secure your preferred date. Consider Capacity: Ensure that the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected number of guests. Visit in Person: Schedule a site visit to get a feel for the space and its amenities. Customization: Inquire about decoration options and any restrictions the venue might have. Accessibility: Ensure that the venue is accessible for all your guests' needs. Scioto County's array of space rental opportunities offers a variety of options to suit your event's size, style, and ambiance. Whether you're hosting a corporate gathering, celebrating a milestone, or tying the knot, these venues promise to elevate your event and create lasting memories for you and your guests.

The Portsmouth Spartan Mural on Portsmouth's famed Floodwall Murals. In NFL history, some teams shine brightly while others fade into obscurity. Among the forgotten franchises is the Portsmouth Spartans, a spirited team from Portsmouth, Ohio, that showcased the tough and passionate essence of early professional football. In this blog post, we will explore the rich history of the Portsmouth Spartans, including their formation, remarkable achievements, and their eventual fate in the ever-changing world of the NFL. The Birth of the Portsmouth Spartans The Portsmouth Spartans were established in 1929, stirring excitement in a burgeoning professional football scene. A group of local athletes, driven by a love for the game and a desire to entertain their community, formed the team. When the Spartans joined the National Football League (NFL) in 1930, they brought thrilling entertainment to Portsmouth, a city with a population of approximately 20,000 at the time. This small-town team quickly became a source of pride for locals, demonstrating a tenacious spirit in their pursuit of success. Aerial View of Spartan Municipal Stadium (c. 1955).: One time home of the NFL's Portsmouth Spartans, Municipal (Universal) Stadium, Portsmouth, Ohio (c. 1955). ~ Source: Image courtesy of the Ackerman Collection, Southern Ohio Museum and Cultural Center, Portsmouth, Ohio. Accession No. 1996.2.38. ~ Date: c. 1955 The Spartans' Stunning Performance In their early years, the Spartans made a significant impact. The 1932 season was particularly remarkable, as the team finished with an impressive 11-3 record. This placed them among the elite contenders in the league, capturing national attention. One of the highlights of this season was the famous "Iron Man Game" against the Green Bay Packers. On December 4th, 1932, these teams clashed in a hard-fought battle that is still remembered today. The Spartans won the game 19-0, but it was their resilience that shone through. Their performance earned them respect, solidifying their status in the league and highlighting their competitive nature. The Iron Men of Portsmouth The Portsmouth Spartans were not just a football team; they were a tight-knit family. The camaraderie among players gave rise to the nickname “Iron Men.” This term referred to their ability to endure long games without substitutions, a necessity due to the team's limited roster. This dedication and commitment to each other created a bond that made them a memorable part of football history. Their legacy of resilience has inspired future generations of athletes, setting a high standard for perseverance in the sport. For many Spartan fans, the "Iron Man" game is remembered as the greatest football match in Portsmouth's sports history, where the "Purple Herd" demonstrated they were the top NFL team in 1932. They defeated their rivals, the reigning "world champions," preventing the Packers from securing their fourth NFL title, and positioned themselves to either claim the championship for Portsmouth or tie for first with the Chicago Bears. At the conclusion of the 1932 regular season, with the Bears and Spartans tied for first place, the teams agreed to compete in the inaugural postseason NFL championship game, a precursor to what is today known as the Super Bowl. Due to cold weather and concerns about poor ticket sales, the game was moved indoors, marking it as the first indoor game in league history. Unfortunately, the Portsmouth Spartans would fall to the Chicago Bears 9-0 in the championship game. Nonetheless, all of this NFL history was made possible by the Spartans' remarkable victory over the Packers in the Iron Man Game and thus cementing them in the NFL books as literal game changers. Potsy Clark, Harry Snyder, and the NFL Spartans of 1932: Top (from left to right): Head Coach Potsy Clark, Father Lumpkin, Glenn Presnell, Gene Alford, Dutch Clark, Mule Wilson, John Cavosie, Ace Gutowsky, Trainer Doc Neff, and Business Manager Harry Snyder. Bottom (from left to right): Harry Ebding, George Christensen, Buster Mitchell, Ox Emerson, Clare Randolph, Ray Davis, Maury Bodenger, John Wager, Am Rascher, and Bill McKalip. The NFL Spartans of 1932 were “known wide and near,” according to the Lancaster Eagle-Gazette, as the “17 iron men” because “they have surged to the top with only six men available for substitutions." The Portsmouth Daily Times published this team photo on the morning of the Iron Man Game (4 December 1932) and, in 1994, Robert Dafford incorporated it into his iconic floodwall mural.The original photograph captured the "17 iron men," along with Spartan Coach Potsy Clark, Trainer Doc Neff, and Business Manager Harry Snyder (the largest share owner of the Spartans). 60-minute men were not unusual in the NFL before the 1940s, when league rules changed, allowing for unlimited substitutions and the fielding of two separate offensive and defensive teams. League rules capped rosters at twenty-two and placed limitations on substitutions. The expense of carrying two teams of players was cost-prohibitive during the Depression years. As the 1932 season wore on, Potsy Clark cut his squad to seventeen Spartans. ~ Source: "Packers, Spartans Eager for Fray," Portsmouth Sunday Times, Portsmouth Historic Newspaper Collection, Clark Memorial Library, Shawnee State University, Portsmouth, Ohio. ~ Date: 4 December 1932 The Glory Days and Unexpected Downfall Following the incredible 1932 season by the Portsmouth Spartans, enthusiastic fans filled the stands, creating a strong community connection. However, it wasn't enough and the landscape of professional sports began to shift dramatically. In 1934, the harsh realities of maintaining a professional franchise in a small town became evident. Financial struggles worsened due to the Great Depression, which led the team to make a tough decision. In that same year, the franchise was sold to a group from Detroit, and the team was rebranded as the Detroit Lions. While this move provided financial relief, it also marked the end of the Portsmouth Spartans and left behind a bittersweet legacy. Exciting Plans for Stadium Renovation and NCAA Team Addition Shawnee State University is set to renovate the stadium, enhancing its role as a vibrant center for athletic events and community gatherings. This historic venue will not only continue to support the university's sports teams but will also eventually host its own NCAA football team in 2028. Additionally, the stadium remains home to the Port City Spartans, a minor league football team that brings excitement and pride to Portsmouth. The city of Portsmouth honors its historical football legacy through annual events organized by the Portsmouth Football Historical Society. These celebrations ensure that the memory of the Spartans continues to thrive, introducing new generations to the proud history of their local team and its connection to Shawnee State University. For sports enthusiasts eager to explore this captivating history, numerous avenues are available. From memorabilia to documentaries and reunions, uncovering the rich legacy of the Portsmouth Spartans and their ties to the university is like discovering hidden treasures within the larger narrative of sports in the region. A Lasting Impact The Portsmouth Spartans may no longer grace the field, but their legacy as an integral part of NFL history lives on. This team from Ohio embodies the heart and soul of American football—highlighting themes of resilience, teamwork, and spirited competition that create lasting memories. Exploring the story of the Portsmouth Spartans goes beyond simply acknowledging a forgotten franchise; it invites us to embrace the essence of sports—passion, struggle, and triumph. So, the next time you reflect on NFL history, take a moment to remember the Iron Men of Portsmouth, who made a significant impact on the football landscape and instilled pride in their community. Check out this short documentary below for a more comprehensive summary of the Portsmouth Spartans and the legacy they left on the NFL. For more in-depth information and a historical tour of the Portsmouth Spartans, check out this tour on the Scioto Historical App: https://sciotohistorical.org/tours/show/24

Four Seasons of Fun In Scioto County, every season brings its own unique charm and opportunities for adventure. From the vibrant colors of fall festivals to winter wonderlands, spring blossoms, and summer outdoor excursions, there's something for everyone to enjoy year-round in this diverse and picturesque region. Autumn Events As the leaves turn to brilliant hues, Scioto County comes alive with a vibrant tapestry of autumn events. Experience Friends of Portsmouth’s Oktoberfest to savor seasonal brew. Celebrate local Appalachian heritage at the John Roger Simon Sorghum Festival and the Otway Covered Bridge Festival. Experience the beauty of the season as you hike, bike, or drive through the hills of Shawnee State Forest. For family fun, Noble Family Farms and Fuhrmann Orchards offer pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and hayrides, making autumn in Scioto County an unforgettable season of festivities and outdoor adventures. CHECK OUT THE GUIDE > Winter Events Winter in Scioto County is a time of enchantment and celebration. At Winterfest , Portsmouth transforms into a Hallmark Hometown, with a month-long festival featuring an ice skating rink, charming carriage rides, and artisan vendors, creating a magical atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season. Take a drive through the beautifully holiday decorated Otway Covered Bridge, perfect for a family outing. Meanwhile, the White Gravel Mines Christmas Caves come alive with a live drama re-telling the Savior's birth, offering a heartfelt and spiritual experience that brings the true meaning of Christmas to life in a breathtaking underground setting. CHECK OUT THE GUIDE > Spring Events As spring breathes new life into Scioto County, two cherished events await. Explore the spiritual journey within the White Gravel Mines Easter Caves , where artistry and devotion converge to create a unique and moving experience. Experience fun family activities like Easter Egg Hunts at Noble Family Farms’ Easter Eggstravaganza. Then, don't miss the lively the 7 Nations Celtic Club St. Patrick's Day Celebration, where the streets come alive with vibrant colors, music, and dancing, ushering in the season with festive Irish flair. CHECK OUT THE GUIDE > Summer Events Summer in Scioto County offers a kaleidoscope of events to enjoy. Experience the roar of engines and the thrill of competition at the Southern Ohio Forest Rally , savor fresh local produce and artisan goods at the Main Street Portsmouth in Bloom Farmer's Market , explore the great outdoors at our various parks and preserves, and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the region at the Scioto County Fair . For music lovers, the Boneyfiddle Project's Final Friday Concert Series provides a soundtrack to your summer, while the River Days Festival , Parade, and Pageant offer a joyful celebration of community spirit and river heritage that's not to be missed. CHECK OUT THE GUIDE > Upcoming Events Explore Scioto County's county-wide calendar of events, your go-to resource for the latest and most comprehensive information on all the exciting happenings throughout the year. CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Shop Indulge your inner treasure hunter in the charming town of Portsmouth, where antique shops line the streets, brimming with vintage finds waiting to be discovered. Beyond the classic allure of antiques, Portsmouth also boasts trendy boutiques offering an array of unique and contemporary items to satisfy the most eclectic tastes. Antiques Unique Antiques Warehouse 116 Jefferson Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Portsmouth Coin & Currency Company 614 Chillicothe Street, Portsmouth, Ohio Website Hidden Treasures 540 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Ghosts in the Attic Antique Mall 518 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Rivertown Antique Mall 541 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Gray Brush Vintage Market 116 Jefferson Street, Portsmouth, Ohio (Booth located within Unique Antiques) Website Boutiques Have to Have it All! Boutique 605 Chillicothe Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Scioto Shoe Mart 615 Harding Ave, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Simply M Boutique 8736 Ohio River Road, Wheelersburg, OH 45694 Website Gigi's Kiss Of Style 515 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Trendz Within 420 Chillicothe Street, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Specialty The Mystic Rose 208 Market Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Gift Shop at Candyland Children's Museum 202 Market Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website AJ’s Mercantile and Tackle Box 8732 Ohio River Road Wheelersburg, Ohio 45694 Website Wright's Farm Center 430 Second Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Haskins House Records 534 2nd St Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Fourth Space Games 524 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Gift Shop at Southern Ohio Museum 825 Gallia Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Red Door Bookstore 223 Market Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website

America250 Celebrations! Read the Guide Proud past, limitless future Step into the Ohio county with a proud past and a limitless future, where history blends harmoniously with innovation. Embrace the rich heritage of this region while witnessing the boundless potential and exciting opportunities that lie ahead, creating an inspiring and promising destination for all who visit. EXPERIENCE THE CHARM Explore these guides Geology Rocks! EXPLORE Explore Shawnee State Park! EXPLORE Fun Farm Activities EXPLORE Upcoming Events Scioto County is gearing up for an exciting lineup of upcoming events that cater to all interests. From lively music festivals and local food fairs to art exhibitions and community celebrations, residents and visitors alike can look forward to a vibrant calendar of events that showcase the heart and soul of the region. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE Prehistoric Heritage of Scioto County Explore and experience the prehistoric heritage of Scioto County, Ohio. EXPLORE The Pastry Path From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest establishments, offering a taste of local favorites and sweet treats that will leave you craving for more. EXPLORE Free Things to Do Year-Round Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. This guide invites you to explore a variety of free attractions that cater to all interests, from art enthusiasts to history buffs and nature lovers. EXPLORE We're just down the road! Less than two hours from... Cincinnati, OH Columbus, OH Lexington, KY Huntington, WV Less than four hours from... Dayton, OH Cleveland, OH Louisville, KY Pittsburgh, PA The word on the street. "Visiting Scioto County was a wonderful experience! The diverse range of outdoor activities and charming rural landscapes made it an ideal destination for nature lovers like me. The warm and welcoming community, along with the rich cultural experiences, left a lasting impression, and I can't wait to return for more adventures in the foothills of Appalachia." Jake T. Follow us @explorescioto