Nearby Attractions While Scioto County offers an abundance of attractions, don't miss the opportunity to venture beyond its borders and explore these nearby gems. Serpent Mound Serpent Mound, an ancient effigy mound located in Adams County near Scioto County, Ohio, is a fascinating archaeological site. Shaped like a serpent and believed to be over 1,000 years old, this historic earthwork holds cultural and spiritual significance, drawing visitors to ponder its mysterious origins and intricate design. LEARN MORE Dogwood Pass Dogwood Pass, nestled in Pike County near Scioto County, Ohio, is a captivating Old West town that transports visitors back in time. With authentic buildings, themed events, and live entertainment, this immersive attraction offers a unique opportunity to experience the Wild West in all its glory. LEARN MORE Visit Ashland Kentucky Nestled on the southern banks of the Ohio River in the tri-state area of Kentucky, Ohio, and West Virginia is the blooming city of Ashland waiting for you to unwind and explore. LEARN MORE Malibu Jack's Malibu Jack's in Ashland, Kentucky, is a thrilling entertainment complex that promises an action-packed experience for visitors of all ages. From go-karts and mini-golf to arcade games and laser tag, this vibrant destination offers endless fun and excitement for families and friends. LEARN MORE Jackson Lake State Park Jackson Lake State Park, located in Oak Hill, Ohio, offers a serene escape into nature's embrace. With a tranquil lake perfect for boating and fishing, along with scenic trails and lush surroundings, this park invites outdoor enthusiasts to unwind and explore the beauty of Scioto County's landscapes. LEARN MORE Sandy's Racing & Gaming Sandy's Racing & Gaming in Ashland, Kentucky, is a thrilling destination for those seeking high-speed excitement and gaming entertainment. From live horse racing to a vibrant gaming floor featuring slots and more, visitors can experience the adrenaline rush of the track and the thrill of casino games all in one place. LEARN MORE KY State Parks Kentucky State Parks offer a diverse range of natural beauty and recreational opportunities across the state. From serene lakes and lush forests to historic sites and outdoor activities, these parks provide a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and families alike. LEARN MORE

Arts & Culture Discover a world of creativity and expression throughout Scioto County, where arts and cultural organizations flourish. From contemporary art galleries to historical museums, this county's rich tapestry of artistic endeavors offers an immersive experience that captivates the senses and enriches the soul. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious about different cultures, Scioto County is a haven for exploration and inspiration. Museums Southern Ohio Museum & Cultural Center 825 Gallia Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Scioto County Heritage Museum 623 Market Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Open on Sundays 2pm-4pm Website Candyland Children's Museum 202 Market Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website The Boneyfiddle Military Museum 421 Front Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Open by Appointment Call Museum Curator, Mike Russell at 740-352-4176 Website Lucasville Area Historical Society -- Heritage House 291 West Street Lucasville, OH 45648 Open Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm and by appointment 740-961-9271 Website 1810 House 1926 Waller Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 TEMPORARILY CLOSED DUE TO UPGRADES AND REPAIRS Website Greenlawn Cemetery 1618 Offnere Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Theaters Vern Riffe Center for the Arts 940 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Portsmouth Area Arts Council Performances are at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts. Website Portsmouth Little Theater 1117 Lawson Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Cirque d’Art Theatre 412 Chillicothe Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Galleries & Studios Gallia Street Studio 838 Gallia Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Second Saturday Art Walk Seasonal May & October Throughout Downtown Portsmouth, see article linked below for more information. More Info Portsmouth Street Art Project 1 Offnere Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Public Graffiti Hours Sunrise to Sunset, 7 days a week Website Appleton Gallery at VRCFA 940 2nd St Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website The Happy Pot 522 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Music Boneyfiddle Project Final Friday Concert Series Seasonal May–October 132 2nd Street Portsmouth, Ohio 45662 Website The Landing 603 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Portsmouth Wind Symphony Concerts performed throughout the year at various venues in Portsmouth. Check the event calendar for more specific dates. Website Vern Riffe Center for the Arts 940 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Port City Pub 424 Chillicothe Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website

Celebrate America's 250th Birthday in Portsmouth-Scioto County Come celebrate the Semiquincentennial of the United States of America with us! Special themed-trails and events are scheduled throughout the year to mark America's 250th Birthday! Learn more about how you can celebrate in Portsmouth-Scioto County below: Visit a Local Historical Site The sites listed below provide a great way to discover and learn about Portsmouth-Scioto County history while also having fun! Otway Covered Bridge The Otway Covered Bridge is a charming historical landmark from the 1800s. Spanning the Scioto River, its beautiful wooden structure and unique design attract visitors for nature and photography, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Read More Mound Park Mound Park in Portsmouth, OH, features the last rem of the ancient Portsmouth Earthworks—a 2,000-year-old horseshoe-shaped mound sketched by Caleb Atwater in 1820 and surveyed in 1847 by Ephraim Squier and Dr. Davis. Today, it stands as testament to the area's rich history. Read More Greenlawn Cemetery Established in 1829, Greenlawn Cemetery spans over 40 acres in Portsmouth and is the final resting place of nearly 80,000 individuals. Its peaceful paths offer visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich history, with monuments that tell the story of life from the 1800s to the present. Read More Tremper Mound Tremper Mound is a significant archaeological site featuring a burial mound from the Hopewell culture ( B.C. - 500 A.D.), showcasing ancient Indigenous social and ceremonial practices, artistry, and engineering. It serves as a testament to the region's rich prehistoric heritage. Read More Portsmouth Floodwall Murals The Portsmouth Floodwall Murals, created by Robert Dafford, are a colorful tribute to the city's history and culture, showcasing the community's spirit. Visitors can appreciate the stunning visuals and the stories they convey along the floodwall. Read More Underground Railroad The Underground Railroad in Portsmouth, Ohio, highlights the city’s critical role as a crossing point for freedom seekers escaping slavery across the Ohio River. Sites like Allen Chapel AME Church commemorate the brave individuals who aided in these secret journeys. Read More America250 Ohio Trails in Portsmouth-Scioto County The trails listed below provide a great way to discover and learn about Portsmouth-Scioto County history while also having fun! The Creativity Trail Discover Ohio’s vibrant creativity on the Ohio Creativity Trail, featuring over 100 inspiring sites across the state. View More The Lake Erie to Ohio River Trail This "drive your own adventure" trail will tell the stories and history of the people, places and events associated with the waterways that shape Ohio - the lake, river and canals that connect them. View More Scioto County's Natural Resources The trails listed below provide a great way to discover the natural spaces that encompass Portsmouth-Scioto County and abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities! Shawnee State Park Shawnee State Park is a stunning natural retreat located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Offering a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping, it's the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike. With its beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife, Shawnee State Park provides a peaceful escape for all visitors. Read More Raven Rock State Nature Preserve Raven Rock State Nature Preserve in Scioto County, Ohio, features a 2.5-mile trail that climbs 500 feet to a sandstone overlook with views of the rivers. The area has sandstone arches and rich Native American history, including legends of Tecumseh. Access is by free permit only to protect the ecosystem. Read More Gladys Riley Golden Star Lily Preserve Gladys Riley Golden Star Lily Preserve in Scioto County, Ohio, spans over 185 acres and was established to protect the state-endangered golden star lily, which blooms in abundance each spring. The preserve features two scenic trails—one through a wildflower-filled floodplain and another that climbs a forested hillside with mature oak, hickory, and buckeye trees. Read More Shawnee State Forest Shawnee State Forest in southern Ohio is a beautiful natural haven with over 60 miles of hiking trails and diverse wildlife. Known as the "Little Smokies of Ohio," it offers vistas and a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts. Read More Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve Hanging Rock Preserve, located near Minford in Scioto County, is a 750-acre woodland featuring a 4.4-mile loop trail through ravines, creeks and moss-covered sandstone. It showcases diverse native plants and remnants of 19th-century industries, blending natural beauty with historical significance. Read More Wayne National Forest The Wayne National Forest, Ohio's only national forest, is nestled among the Appalachian Foothills in southeast Ohio. The region is distinctly Appalachian in culture, heavily forested, and rich in history. Southeast Ohio is a tourist’s dream, with ample opportunities to explore nature, eat at local restaurants, and shop at local stores—all within a short drive of each other. Read More Portsmouth-Scioto County America250 Celebrations Each month in 2026, a particular theme is celebrated throughout the State of Ohio. The events listed below coordinate with each them in some way and provide a great way to discover the uniqueness of Portsmouth-Scioto County! January February March April May June July August September October November December Firsts & Originals Kick-off 2026 by celebrating the unique contributions of Ohio from Presidents to other Ohio originals and firsts. Featured Events TBD Innovation February’s focus will be Ohio innovations and innovators, historic and contemporary businesses, and the hard-working people of Ohio past and present. National Invention Day and National Engineer’s week both occur in February. Featured Events TBD Music, Entertainment, & Movies Roy Rogers, Earl Thomas Conley, Seth Morrison, and so many more – we’ll celebrate Ohio’s contribution to music, entertainment, and movies. Featured Events March 19, 2026: First Ladies of Song Starring Helen Welch - 7:30 pm March 21, 2026: Portsmouth Wind Symphony- Hymns, Faith & Sacred Sounds - 7:30pm Transportation Ohio moves the world on land and in space. We’ll celebrate Ohio’s impact on transportation. This will be an opportunity to showcase how Ohio has impacted the world from canals to space and every mode of transportation in between. Featured Events TBD Arts, Culture, and Literature May’s theme will celebrate Ohio’s amazing symphonies, museums, artists, and more. It will include Ohio Goes to the Movies and Ohio Arts Council programming, among other experiences. Featured Events TBD Natural Resources In June, we’ll celebrate the great resources we have – Lake Erie, Ohio River, 76 State Parks, miles of trails for biking and hiking. Featured Events June 21, 2026: Portsmouth Connex's Wild Ride Homecoming & Picnics Family and friends will gather for the 4th of July. We’re going to celebrate by providing them with an Ohio-themed Homecoming Kit that will be both fun and educational. Featured Events JULY 4TH, 2026: America250 Scioto County Celebration @ Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park July 18th, 2026: Homecoming Picnic at Camp Oyo's 100 Year Anniversary Ohio State & County Fairs In 2026, The Ohio State Fair will be a way all Ohioans can celebrate the 250th anniversary as we unearth the bicentennial time capsule and create a new one for the next generation. Featured Events Scioto County Fair Sports & Recreation September’s theme will embrace sports of all sorts – from peewee to professional sports teams and Ohio’s incredible contribution to athletics. Featured Events September 4-6: River Days Celebration - Portsmouth, OH September 11-13: White Tail Deer Festival - Rarden, OH September 20th, 2026: Dr. E. Lucy Braun Lookout Trail Ribbon Cutting - Shawnee State Park Agriculture October is the month of harvest, and we’ll celebrate Ohio’s contributions through Agriculture through all of the amazing Ohio fall activities – AM 250-OH corn maze anyone? Featured Events October 3-4, 2026: Oktoberfest and Glocktoberfest October 9-11, 2026: Pioneer Day Weekends in October: Noble Family Farms Weekends in October: Fuhrmann Orchards Veterans We’ll recognize Ohio’s contribution of those who serve on the front lines daily as firefighters, police officers, and medical professionals. Veteran’s Day 2026 will be a focal point. Featured Events November 11th, 2026: Veterans Day Celebration with Quilts of Valor at Riverfront TBD: Lucasville Veterans Celebration at Lucasville Community Park Future Ohio In December, we’ll cap off the year-long celebration by looking forward to the future to prepare for Ohio’s leadership in the next 50 years. Featured Events December 5th, 2026: Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom's Cookie Crawl December 6th, 2026: Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom's Tour of Historic Places Throughout December: Portsmouth Winterfest Weekends in December: Christmas Cave Portsmouth-Scioto County organizations that are looking to submit events to be featured in these monthly themes may fill out a submission form. Submission Form Don't let the celebration stop with America250! Want to explore more? Be sure to check out the rest of the website for more helpful guides to further plan your trip to Portsmouth-Scioto County! Looking to see what other fun events are coming up? Be sure to check out the main event calendar for up-to-date events in the area!

Events at Scioto County Public Library

Family Fun in Scioto County Ready for memorable family adventures in Scioto County, Ohio? Explore the best family fun events that Scioto County has to offer with this curated selection of kid-friendly events. From kid-friendly art events at the Portsmouth Area Arts Council to educational activities at the Scioto County Public Library , you’ll discover endless family-friendly events in Scioto County for all ages. Whether you’re looking for kids’ events this weekend or after-school activities, Scioto County has fun for the whole family!

Scioto Travel and Tourism Blogs These travel and tourism blogs are your passport to adventure! They offer a delightful mix of personal stories, tips, and stunning visuals that inspire wanderlust in every reader. From hidden gems in Downtown Portsmouth to serene landscapes off the beaten path at Shawnee State Park and Forest, these blogs capture the essence of exploration within Portsmouth-Scioto County. Article: Portsmouth's Winterfest Proves the Best Holiday Gifts are Moments Shared In the heart of southern Ohio, the city of Portsmouth knows how to make the holiday season memorable. Each winter, this riverfront community transforms into a scene straight out of a Hallmark movie—complete with twinkling lights, horse-drawn carriages, and cozy family traditions. But Portsmouth’s Winterfest doesn’t just celebrate the season. It makes history doing it. Weekend Wanders: Discovering the Natural Wonders of Scioto County Embark on a an unforgettable adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Portsmouth-Scioto County. Explore State Parks and winding trails, family fun at the local farms, and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscapes. 🍁 Fall in Love with Portsmouth-Scioto County: A Perfect Autumn Getaway 🍂 When the air turns crisp and the hills of southern Ohio erupt into fiery shades of red, gold, and orange, there’s no better time to visit Portsmouth and Scioto County. Unveiling the Glory of the Portsmouth Spartans: A Forgotten Chapter in NFL History 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. Roadside Geology of Scioto County, Ohio: A Traveler’s Guide Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Plateau, Scioto County offers more than just scenic beauty—it’s a living laboratory of Earth’s dynamic history. From ancient oceans to Ice Age floods, the rocks and landscapes here tell a fascinating geologic tale. If you're a geology buff, nature lover, or curious traveler, this guide is your roadmap to exploring some of Ohio’s most compelling natural features. Exploring the Best Biking Trails in Portsmouth Scioto County Portsmouth-Scioto County offers a variety of biking opportunities for enthusiasts of all levels. The region features scenic routes along the Ohio River, providing picturesque views and a pleasant riding experience. Uncover the Best Theatres and Arts Entertainment in Portsmouth-Scioto County: A Cultural Enthusiast's Must-See! Explore the vibrant arts and culture scene with this ultimate guide to artistic entertainment in Portsmouth-Scioto County! Discover the Breathtaking Views from Copperhead Lookout Fire Tower on Your Next Adventure! Experience the wonderful views of Shawnee State Forest atop the Copperhead Fire Tower! Exploring Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park: Fun Activities for Every Visitor Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park is a hidden gem nestled near Portsmouth, with views of the Ohio River and the hills of Southern Ohio. Must-Visit Cozy Spots and Exciting Activities in Portsmouth-Scioto County Are you ready to dive into a world of warmth and fun? Explore some amazing places where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy some indoor fun!

Recreation Scioto County beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse range of recreational activities. From scenic hiking trails and thrilling water sports along the Ohio River to serene camping spots and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, the county offers an endless playground for nature lovers of all ages. Hiking For the best hiking spots in Scioto County, check out Shawnee State Park , Raven Rock Nature Preserve , and Wayne National Forest . For a more quiet and secluded experience, check out the hiking opportunities through the preserves of Arc of Appalachia: Gladys Riley Golden Star Lily Preserve , Ohio Hanging Rock Preserve , and Tremper Mound . Water Sports For the best kayak/canoeing spots, check out The Scioto River (launch site at Alexandria Point), Roosevelt Lake, Turkey Creek Lake , and Scioto Brush Creek . For the best boating, head to the Ohio River. Boat ramps are available at Shawnee State Marina , Shawnee Boat Club , The Anchor Pad Boat Club , and Holiday Point Marina and Campground . Disc Golf For the best disc golf courses in Scioto County, check out the Earl Thomas Conley Park Course , and the Shawnee State Park Course . Camping For the best camping in Scioto County, check out our overview of campground s . Dog Parks For the best dog parks, check out Spock Memorial Dog Park in Portsmouth , and Shawnee State Ohio River Campground Dog Park . Golf & Miniature Golf For the best golfing, check out The Elks Country Club , Little Scioto Golf Course , and Wheelersburg Golf Center . For miniature golf, check out Buckeye Dairy Bar . Indoor Amusement If indoor amusement is what you are looking for, check out Southern Ohio Axe Throwing , Boneyfiddle Golf and Lounge , The Vault Ohio E-Sports & video gaming, or Deadbolt: Boneyfiddle Escape Rooms and Mysteries . Read our guide for all things indoor amusement in Scioto County! Mountain & Road Biking For the best mountain biking in Scioto County, check out Shawnee State Park . Horseback Riding For the best horseback riding in Scioto County, check out Ben's Happy Trails . If you are bringing your own horses, check out Bear Lake Horse Camp in Shawnee State Park . ATV Riding For the best ATV trails in Scioto County, check out Wayne National Forest . Fishing For the best fishing in Scioto County, check out Turkey Creek Lake, Roosevelt Lake , Lake Vesuvius , The Ohio River, and The Scioto River. There are also many Pay Lakes like Grey Wolf Pay Lake . Pump Tracks & Skate Park For the best pump tracks, check out Earl Thomas Conley Park and the Shawnee State Ohio River Campground . For the best skate park, check out Portsmouth Skate Park . Motorsports For the best motorsports, check out Portsmouth Raceway Park, KD Motorsports Park , and Wheelersburg Raceway . Farms & Orchards Scioto County's agritourism scene provides an authentic and immersive experience for visitors seeking to connect with the land and local traditions. From picking fresh apples in picturesque orchards to navigating challenging corn mazes on family farms, agritourism in Southern Ohio offers a delightful blend of rural charm and hands-on activities for all to enjoy. EXPLORE Indoor Amusement When the weather turns chilly or you're seeking indoor entertainment, Scioto County offers a range of thrilling options. Test your aim and competitive spirit at Southern Ohio Axe Throwing , or practice your swing at Boneyfiddle Golf and Lounge . Dive into mystery and puzzles at Deadbolt Escape Room , where your problem-solving skills are put to the test in immersive and exciting scenarios. Try your hand at video gaming at The Vault Ohio , a state-of-the-art ESPORTS and video arcade arena with a 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) fiber optic connection. Indoors in Scioto County, the fun never stops! EXPLORE Mountain biking in Shawnee State Forest was an exhilarating experience that exceeded all expectations. The forest's diverse trails offered a perfect mix of challenging climbs, thrilling descents, and breathtaking scenery. Whether navigating through lush woodlands or tackling rugged terrains, every twist and turn was a reminder of the sheer beauty and adventure that Shawnee State Forest has to offer to mountain biking enthusiasts like me." Alex Y.

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Stay Embrace a delightful escape in the idyllic Scioto County, where you can choose from charming bed and breakfasts exuding quaint elegance, budget-friendly hotels providing modern amenities, or immerse yourself in nature with camping under the starlit skies, creating a perfect getaway to suit every traveler's preference. Hotels Holiday Inn 711 2nd Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Quality Inn (Wheelersburg) 8226 Ohio River Road Wheelersburg, OH 45694 Website Red Roof Inn (Wheelersburg) 8340 Ohio River Road, Wheelersburg OH 45694 Website Shawnee State Lodge & Cabins 4404B State Route 125 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website Quality Inn (Portsmouth) 5100 Scioto Trail, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Super 8 4266 US-23 Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Bed & Breakfasts Photo Credit: The Old Monastery The Old Monastery 2311 Timlin Rd Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Resorts Photo Credit: McChesney Ridge Big Bear Lake Family Resort 9906 Big Bear Creek Road Lucasville, Ohio 45648 Website McChesney Ridge 2198 Sedan Crabtree Road Lucasville, OH 45648 Website Vacation Rentals VRBO To view VRBO properties available for rent in Scioto County, OH click the button below. Website Journey Adventures 2914 Mackeltree Rd., Blue Creek, OH 45616 Website AirBnB To view AirBnB properties available for rent in Scioto County, OH click the button below. Website Camping Ohio River Campground (Shawnee State Park) 11152 US-52 Stout, OH 45684 Website Riverview Campground 1224 Kenyon Rd Franklin Furnace, OH 45629 Website Ben’s Happy Trails Riding Stable and Campground 3494 Big Spruce Road Otway, OH 45657 Website Bear Lake Horse Camp Contact the Shawnee State Forest office for more information. Website Wolford's Landing 6888 Front Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Turkey Creek Campground (Shawnee State Park) 5648 State Route 125 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website Lazy Village Campground & RV Park 13610 US Highway 52 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website Wayne National Forest 13700 US Highway 33 Nelsonville, OH 45764 (office) Website Lazy Village Campground & RV Park 13610 US-52 West Portsmouth, OH 45663 Website

About Meet our Director Hello and welcome to Portsmouth-Scioto Co unty! You can say that tourism has always been a part of my life in some way. As a kid, I grew up on a farm in northern Ohio just 20 minutes from one of the most famous amusement parks, Cedar Point Amusement Park. Despite being close to such a big attraction, my family traveled to various places around the country from Alaska to the Florida Keys and everywhere in between. This is where my inspiration for my career choice began. I began my career in tourism in a somewhat unconventional way. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Environment and Natural Resources with a focus on Parks, Recreation, and Tourism from The Ohio State University. After graduation, I traveled the country again, but this time not as a visitor, but rather as a park ranger for the National Park Service. My life as a park ranger took me to a variety of places across the country including Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Grand Canyon National Park, Zion National Park, and other such sites across the U.S. So what brings a park ranger to the hills of southern Ohio? My family. My wife and her family are from Minford, OH, located in the northeastern part of the county. Throughout my time here, I’ve grown to appreciate the cultural and natural resources we have right in our own backyard. From the hills in Shawnee State Forest to the Ohio River, there is always something beautiful to discover in Scioto County! I hope you enjoy your visit! – Nate Welch, Executive Director Stop by and see us! Tourism Partner & Member of the following organizations: