Welcome to the captivating world of coffee in Scioto County, Ohio! Whether you're a dedicated coffee connoisseur or just looking for a cozy spot to unwind, this guide will take you on a delightful journey through a variety of coffee shops that offer unique flavors, comforting ambiances, and a warm cup of joe to keep you energized and inspired. Lofts Coffee Company 842 Gallia St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Located near Shawnee State University in Portsmouth, Lofts Coffee Company is a coffee haven known for its commitment to quality. Enjoy a cup of their freshly brewed artisanal coffee, sourced from around the world and roasted in-house. Their relaxed atmosphere and outdoor seating provide the perfect setting to savor your favorite brew while catching up with friends. Must-Try: La Meseta Colombian Blend - A medium-bodied coffee with notes of brown sugar, orange, and vanilla. Market Street Cafe 212 Market St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Discover a cozy neighborhood retreat at Market Street Cafe in the historic Boneyfiddle District in Portsmouth, where locals gather for friendly conversations and exceptional coffee. With its rustic charm and welcoming staff, this café feels like a second home. Don't forget to pair your coffee with their mouthwatering pastries or sandwiches for the ultimate treat. Must-Try: Highlander Grogg blend Sarah's Cafe & Bakery 21 Robert Lucas Rd, Lucasville, OH 45648 In Lucasville, Sarah's Cafe & Bakery welcomes early birds and late risers alike with its bright and cheerful ambiance. Start your day with their signature breakfast blend or unwind in the evening with a soothing herbal tea. Their menu caters to a variety of preferences, ensuring there's something for everyone. Must-Try: Cookie Butter Latte Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House  (Wheelersburg location) 9107 Ohio River Rd UNIT A, Wheelersburg, OH 45694 In the heart of Wheelersburg, Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. This cozy café takes pride in its handcrafted beverages, ensuring that each cup is made with care and attention to detail. Whether you're looking for a moment of solitude or a cozy chat with friends, Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House provides the perfect ambiance. If you don't have time to sit, they also have a convenient drive through! Must-Try: Pumpkin Spice Latte (or whatever seasonal latte they have!) Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House (Minford location) 8676 State Route 335, Minford, OH Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House expanded their operations into the Minford area, offering the same type of service, drinks, and pastries as their main, Wheelersburg location. Whether you are in the area hiking or visiting one of local Minford area attractions (Noble Family Farms and Christmas Cave), this location certainly offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle. This cozy café takes pride in its handcrafted beverages, ensuring that each cup is made with care and attention to detail. If you don't the time to dine in, order on the go with their drive-through! Must-Try: Frozen Hot Chocolate Minikake's Cafè 842 11th Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Located along Route 52 in downtown Portsmouth, this little café boasts healthy and organic alternatives to your morning cup of joe. From the classic black coffees to fruit smoothies to creative concoctions, this place has a variety of flavors to satisfy your taste buds while also boosting your health! Must-Try: Cinnamon Roll Smoothie Starbucks 811 Gay St., Portsmouth, OH 45662 Nestled in the Kroger grocery store in Portsmouth, Starbucks stands as a global beacon for coffee aficionados. This iconic coffeehouse chain offers an extensive menu of handcrafted beverages, from rich espresso classics to innovative seasonal concoctions. The convenient location and familiar green logo provide a comforting oasis for those in search of their favorite caffeinated indulgence. Must-Try: Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew Tim Horton's 1130 Chillicothe St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Tim Hortons, a beloved Canadian chain, brings its warm and welcoming vibe to Scioto County. Located in the heart of Portsmouth, Tim Hortons offers a diverse menu of coffee and tea, accompanied by a selection of freshly baked goods and lunch items. Their signature Timbits and iconic Double-Double coffee make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors seeking a comforting cup of joe. Must-Try: Cold Brew with Caramel Cream Foam Slow Drip Mobile Coffee Community [Mobile Truck] Check out their social media for location and hours The Slow Drip Mobile Coffee Community is a charming coffee haven on wheels that brings your favorite brews to various locations throughout Scioto County. This mobile coffee truck offers a convenient and delightful way to enjoy your daily caffeine fix. With a menu boasting everything from perfectly brewed espressos to indulgent flavored lattes, the Slow Drip Mobile Coffee Community is a true coffee lover's dream on wheels. Must-Try: Maple Latte

Are you looking to create a new business, especially one that is related to travel and tourism? You may want to check out the Women's Business Center of Central Appalachia (WBC) with the Economic Community and Development Institute (ECDI). Contrary to the name, their services are not just for women, rather they are open to anyone who is interested in creating or updating their business. The WBC of Central Appalachia at Shawnee State University (SSU) is a one-stop resource that empowers business owners in the Tri-State area to create a sustainable business. By partnering with organizations like the Portsmouth-Scioto County Visitors Bureau and the Portsmouth Area Chamber of Commerce, we can offer numerous resources to help businesses start-up, stay-up, and scale-up at no cost to you.  If you are in the process of starting a business and are not sure where to start, give us a call. We can help you with creating an LLC, legal documents, financial questions, and more. We have two Certified Business Advisors on staff ready to answer any questions you may have.  Our training series covers everything businesses need to know to succeed. We offer virtual lunchtime options every Tuesday and schedule in person training throughout the Tri-State. Our Empower by GoDaddy cohort is a wonderful way for businesses to learn how to create their very own free website.  Access to capital is a struggle for small businesses who are just starting out. Since we are part of ECDI, the number one microlender in the nation, we are also able to help end that struggle for you and help you gain access to the funds you need.  If you would like to see more information about upcoming events, like the Ignite Appalachia Makers Market , please join our WBC of Central Appalachia at SSU Facebook page . Visit their office in Portsmouth for more information about other services that are available in Portsmouth, Ohio. The Women's Business Center of Central Appalachia team. We look forward to hearing from you! Reach out anytime!

Welcome to Scioto County, Ohio, where a delightful assortment of bakeries awaits to satisfy your sweet tooth and warm your heart. 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. The Taylored Cookie and Bakery 219 Market St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Located in the heart of Portsmouth, The Taylored Cookie and Bakery is a charming bakery that exudes warmth and nostalgia. This family-owned bakery has been a local favorite for decades, drawing customers with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread, pastries, and cookies. Don't miss their specialty long johns and delectable cinnamon rolls, a perfect way to start your morning. Want an afternoon treat? Try one of their homemade sugar cookies! Scent from Heaven 4013 Rhodes Ave, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Nestled along the banks of the Ohio River in New Boston, Scent From Heaven bakery is a hidden gem renowned for its delectable glazed croissants and mouthwatering cakes. The bakery prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a taste that is both wholesome and heavenly. Be sure to try their famous glazed croissants and indulge in a slice of their creamy chocolate cake - a true slice of heaven! Union Mills Confectionery 1120 Galena Pike, West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Step into Union Mills in West Portsmouth, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time to your grandma's kitchen. This cozy bakery captures the essence of homemade goodness with its old-fashioned recipes and friendly atmosphere. Sample their delectable cinnamon rolls and moist carrot cake, guaranteed to transport you to a time when life was simple and sweet. '83 Sweets 722 6th St., Portsmouth, OH 45662 For a touch of artisanal flair, head to '83 Sweets in Portsmouth. This bakery takes pride in its innovative creations, from exquisitely decorated cupcakes to mouthwatering macarons in a rainbow of flavors. Their rotating menu keeps customers coming back for more, so keep an eye out for seasonal specials like pumpkin spice cupcakes and gingerbread cupcakes during the holidays. Sarah's Café & Bakery 21 Robert Lucas Rd, Lucasville, OH 45648 If you find yourself in Lucasville, Sarah's Delight Café & Bakery is a must-visit spot for breakfast or lunch. This charming café serves up an array of freshly baked goods, from flaky croissants to hearty sandwiches made with their own bread. The aroma of their cookies will lure you in, and you won't be able to resist trying one (or two!).

Whether you are out braving the chilly winter trails or looking for a place to spend some time out of the house and of the cold, there's nothing better than discovering a spot to get all warm and cozy! From local coffee shops serving up a delightful variety of hot (and cold) drinks to lively local hangouts that add a splash of fun! Local Coffee Shops Lofts Coffee Company and Roastery Warm up with a nice cup of Joe at Lofts Coffee Company and Roastery! This is a perfect place to cozy up with a nice hot beverage! Lofts is a unique place where the coffee is locally roasted right there on site! They offer everything from your standard cup of joe to flavored frappes to specialty drinks like martinis and mules. Looking for a light meal or a sweet treat? Lofts also has delicious pastries, sandwiches, salads, soups, and hors d'oeuvres that pair well with their drinks! Local Favorite: White Chocolate Latte paired with one of their sweet treats! Market Street Cafe Enjoy a delicious pastry or cookie from Market Street Cafe, all while you are warming from the outside elements. This local cafe offers up an assortment of foods that will fill your bellies up for breakfast or lunch! From freshly baked goods like scones, muffins, and cookies to light food fare of wraps, soups, and paninis. Round out your meal by enjoying a nice cup of hot coffee, fruit smoothie, or even create your own coffee smoothie! Local Favorite: Snicker Bar Latte paired with one of their blueberry scones! Adams Flying Pig Coffee House  (both Minford and Wheelersburg locations) When the weather is cold, warm up with your favorite hot drink at Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House! Photo by   Justin Sharp Photography Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House offers all kinds of coffee concoctions from their signature Flying Pig Mocha to a traditional hot chocolate. These warm drinks are served from warm hearts as this coffee house is staffed by those with special needs. So not only can you warm your bellies with a warm drink, but warm your heart with a happy smile! Local Favorite: Flying Pig Mocha paired with a sugar waffle!   Exciting Indoor Fun The Vault Ohio Play classic arcade games or modern games for some friendly competition at the Vault Ohio! Are you into retro arcade games? Do you have an inkling to try out Virtual Reality? The Vault Ohio has both and more! Grab your friends and family for some friendly gaming competition. Whether you want to go old school with arcade games, play some new modern games on console or PC or put on a headset for some VR, the Vault Ohio is a perfect place to warm up. Pro tip: Check out their schedule of events as they have several tournaments that you can either participate or spectate! The Happy Pot Craft your own pieces of art at the Happy Pot! Embark on an incredible pottery painting journey at The Happy Pot, a one-of-a-kind studio for everyone, regardless of age or skill level! Unleash your creativity with an extensive array of pottery, bright glazes, and exciting techniques. With space for up to 40 painters, it's perfect for solo relaxation or lively group gatherings. Delight in special painting sessions, festive holiday events, and workshops featuring guest artists. The Happy Pot is your ultimate destination for creativity and thrilling events! Pro tip: Painting pottery isn't the only art creation you can make, ask about other art creative options! Deadbolt: Boneyfiddle Escape Rooms and Mysteries Can you figure out how to escape? Try your luck at Deadbolt Boneyfiddle Escape Rooms and Mysteries! Nestled in the lively center of the historic Boneyfiddle district, Deadbolt provides exhilarating 60-minute escape room adventures within the distinctive Deadbolt Warehouse, once a shoe factory in Portsmouth, Ohio. Designed by lifelong friends to inject excitement into Portsmouth, Deadbolt draws families and friends each weekend to engage in scenarios and break free from reality. What began as a pastime has enthralled the whole town, realizing the dreams of its creators. Pro tip: Book your time slot in advance as tickets sell fast! Conclusion Whether you having out hiking the trails of Shawnee State Park or looking for something fun to do during the day, you can find all kinds of places to warm up and have fun! Escape the winter chill with cozy spots like Lofts Coffee Company for locally roasted coffee, Market Street Cafe for baked goods and customizable smoothies, and Adam's Flying Pig Coffee House with heartwarming drinks. For indoor activities, enjoy games at The Vault Ohio, pottery painting at The Happy Pot, and thrilling escape adventures at Deadbolt: Boneyfiddle Escape Rooms. Find warmth and fun in these local gems!

In winter, Portsmouth-Scioto County transforms into a snowy playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The crisp air and scenic landscapes offer opportunities for various winter activities, from snow sports to nature walks. Whether you're experienced or new to winter adventures, nearby trails, frozen lakes, and views invite exploration. This guide highlights top winter recreational opportunities near Portsmouth to help you enjoy the season. Exploring the trails at Shawnee State Park is a great way to capture winter's beauty. Photo by Toni Dengel Top 3 Winter Hiking Spots in Scioto County With so many choices of places to go for winter hiking, here are the top 3 places to winter hike in Scioto County! Shawnee State Park A view of Turkey Creek in the winter with snow-covered trees. Photo courtesy: Ohio Department of Natural Resources/Shawnee State Park Whether you are a novice or a seasoned hiker, Shawnee State Park is a perfect place to go for winter hiking! With no leaves on the trees, the landscape opens up to breathtaking views. The views are especially incredible as trees are decorated with snow and the lakes are frozen solid with ice. Popular Winter Hiking Trail: Lake Trail  - This easy 0.8 mile trail provides excellent views of Turkey Creek Lake. A bench along the trail offers a lovely view into Slate Hollow where a beavers lodge can be seen. The trail can be accessed from the Nature Center or the Back Pack Trail parking lots. Follow the aquamarine triangles. For a more challenging, yet rewarding hike, the Lake Trail connects is also part of the 5-mile Park Loop trail. Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve near Minford, Ohio. If you are looking for a more challenging, yet quite rewarding hike, take a drive to the east side to the Arc of Appalachia's Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve. While it only has one 1 trail, a 4-mile loop trail, Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve offers beautiful vistas. Popular Hiking Trail: The Ohio Hanging Rock Trail - This 4.4-mile loop trail boasts several rock shelters and narrow ravines. But its crowning glory is its jumble of immense blocks of rock that are strewn on the upper-elevation hillsides, covered with mosses, ferns, and lichens. The densest rock formations are at the farthest end of the trail. Raven Rock State Nature Preserve Raven Rock State Nature Preserve in West Portsmouth, Ohio. The natural rock archway is shown in this picture. Photo courtesy: Ohio Department of Natural Resources Raven Rock State Nature Preserve* is a hidden gem in hills of Appalachia. This particular preserve not only has ties to early Native American history, but also has a promontory of Mississippian age sandstone overlooking the Ohio River Valley. This namesake rock formation provides excellent views of the Ohio River Valley throughout the year. Popular Hiking Trail: Raven Rock Trail: This 2.5-mile, out-and-back trail has some steep elevation gain to reach the top. Be cautious as you hike to Raven Rock as the trail is rocky and covered in tree roots which can be especially challenging when it is wet with snow and ice. Once at the top, you are rewarded with 3 natural archways, one of which is named Raven Rock. The rock outcrops and the archways overlook the Ohio River Valley, perfect to capture amazing winter landscape photos! *Please note that a permit is required to hike up the trail. The permit is free and can be obtained by visiting the Shawnee State Park Office (open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) or the Ohio River Campground Camp Store (open 7 days a week). Conclusion Winter outdoor recreation in Shawnee State Park, Hanging Rock Preserve, and Raven Rock State Nature Preserve provides a unique experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, featuring natural beauty and diverse landscapes. Each location offers a different take on enjoying the winter landscape. Shawnee State Park offers hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in the serene Appalachian foothills. Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve provides winter hiking and photography opportunities with dramatic cliffs and snowy landscapes. Raven Rock State Nature Preserve offers a secluded experience with rugged terrain and stunning views for peaceful exploration. These locations showcase the charm of winter outdoor activities in Ohio, offering solitude, adventure, and appreciation of nature's beauty.

Like many other cities across Appalachia, Portsmouth, Ohio, faced significant challenges in the 1980s. After losing its primary industries, Portsmouth sank into an economic depression. Adding to this was the impact the Nation’s Opioid Epidemic had, and Portsmouth faced a dire future. But it was the unwavering resilience of its community that became the beacon of hope.

The spirit of Christmas is alive and well in Portsmouth-Scioto County! Check out the blog published by CompassOhio to learn about the fun holiday-themed attractions and events that will surely bring joy to the whole family!

Explore the Great Outdoors of Portsmouth-Scioto County! From mountain biking at Shawnee State Park to horseback riding in Shawnee State Forest to hiking at Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve, there is so much natural beauty to immerse yourself in. Take a look at the various adventures below and start planning your own Scioto County Wilderness experience!

Looking for an adventure that explores the Arts and Culture of Portsmouth-Scioto County? Embrace your creative side by diving into Portsmouth-Scioto County's artsy culture. Whether you are exploring the downtown during one of the Portsmouth's Art Walks, looking for ways to engage the kiddos in the arts, or strolling past the famed Portsmouth Floodwall Murals, you'll find that Portsmouth-Scioto County is exploding with the arts at every corner! Check out any of the adventures below to explore the beautiful arts and the rich culture of Portsmouth, OH!

Shawnee State Park is one of Scioto County's hidden gems. With plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities and plenty of natural beauty, the park is a special place for both Scioto County residents and Southern Ohio visitors. Check out this video, produced by The Ohio Channel as they interview one of Shawnee State Park's naturalists, Jenny Richards. The Seasons of Shawnee State Park Visiting Shawnee State Park is beautiful anytime of the year! While winter months can seem dull, the park is anything but dull as snow falls and blankets the trees and meadows. Break out your snowshoes and enjoy a winter hike that can truly elevate you to new heights and really get your blood flowing. As spring approaches, take note of the budding wildflowers that begin to bloom throughout the park. Enjoy some excellent bird watching--from Great Blue Herons and Bald Eagles taking flight near the Ohio River to the small songbirds like the Eastern Phoebe and Cerulean Warbler singing their songs throughout the forest. Of course, the summer is where the idea of adventure truly shines! Kayak out on the lakes, rivers, and creeks and soak up the summer sun. Bring your archery gear and try out the archery range at the Ohio River Campground. As the temperatures begin to shift from warm to cool, the forest comes alive with splashes of fall color! Take a hike or drive through the park and forest to view the radiant colors of the leaves with a mixture of hues of reds, yellows, greens, and oranges. No matter the time of year, Shawnee State Park promises to be full of adventure that the whole family can enjoy! Recreational Opportunities at Shawnee State Park Being that Shawnee State Park sits at the foothills of the Appalachians, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy! Kayaking at Roosevelt Lake, Turkey Creek Lake, the Paddling Loop at the Ohio River Campground, and on the Ohio River. Motorized boating: Hand-powered and electric-only motorized boats are allowed on Roosevelt Lake while Turkey Creek Lake allows gas motors at idle speed. Unlimited horsepower boats can access the Ohio River from a marina. Play a round of disc golf at the Black Bear Disc Golf Course, located near Turkey Lake and the Shawnee Park Lodge. Hike over 65 miles of trails throughout the State Park and Forest. Break out the fishing poles and try your luck fishing at Roosevelt and Turkey Creek Lakes. Ride along over 70 miles of bridle trails through the winding forests and hills of the 'Little Smokies'. Test your mountain biking skills with over 3 miles of mountain biking trails. Read a fun, cute story along the Shawnee State Park's Storybook Trail at the Ohio River Campground. and more! Check out the Shawnee State Park website for all available recreational activities! Staying at Shawnee State Park Now that you are hooked by the plethora of activities to enjoy, the question becomes where can I stay? Shawnee State Park has two campgrounds available: The Ohio River Campground on U.S. Route 52 and Turkey Creek Campground near Roosevelt Lake on Ohio Route 125. Campground amenities vary based on location. Check the park website for more information on the amenities offered for both campground to help decide which best suits your needs. If you are looking for a more comfortable stay where nature and luxury meet, check out the Shawnee State Park Lodge and Conference Center . The park lodge boasts a variety of amenities that will make your stay even more enjoyable! From an indoor and outdoor pool, to arcade games and nature programs for the kids, and delicious dining options for all to stay fueled up for your daily adventures--the lodge is a perfect place to begin and end your day. Want to make the experience more exciting? Check out the variety of special events the lodge puts on throughout the year! No matter what brings you to Shawnee State Park, we hope that we have left you inspired you to come out and enjoy the beauty of Shawnee State Park and the surrounding Shawnee State Forest!