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

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: Scioto County Historical Sites America250 Ohio Trails Scioto County Natural Resources America250 Celebrations Calendar In celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States of America, Chad and Shelly Fannin of Wheelersburg, Ohio wanted to create something special. They created these 8x8 foot murals, one of the America250Ohio logo and the other of the "Spirits of '76" where he lists the names of Chad's great grandfathers who were Revolutionary War Patriots except for the last two names: Samuel Marshal and John Lindsey. Marshal and Lindsey were Patriots who were credited for being the first permanent settlers of Scioto County, Ohio. Located at 939 Gephart Rd., Wheelersburg, OH 45694 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! Ohio Creativity Trail Discover Ohio’s vibrant creativity on the Ohio Creativity Trail, featuring over 100 inspiring sites across the state. View More Ohio Innovation Trail This “drive your own adventure” experience connects you to the stories and places where you can explore some of the state’s innovation stories. 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 Scioto Brush Creek State Nature Preserve and State Scenic River Scioto Brush Creek State Nature Preserve protects over a mile of Scioto Brush Creek (desginated as a State Scenic River in 2025) which is one of the most biologically diverse streams in Ohio. Scioto Brush Creek contains mature trees, spring wildflowers, and over 70 species of fish. 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 The Ohio River and Scioto River At the confluence of the Scioto and Ohio Rivers lies one of Scioto County's key natural resources. These rivers create a dynamic landscape for recreation, including cruising the Ohio River (now designated a National Water Trail) to kayaking the scenic Scioto River. The riverfront thrives with activity, from cargo ships to bald eagles, showcasing the vibrant ecosystem they support. 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 January 3rd, 2026: Coffee with a Colonial - 9 am-10 am at Tim Hortons (Portsmouth) Reoccurring every first Saturday of each month through August 2026. 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 February 7th, 2026: Coffee with a Colonial - 9 am-10 am at Tim Hortons (Portsmouth) Reoccurring every first Saturday of each month through August 2026. February 17th, 2026: Cooking with a Colonial - 5:30 pm-7pm at the Scioto County Public Library (Portsmouth Branch) February 19th, 2026: Ohio Works: Innovation and Industry - 3 pm-5pm at Shawnee State University Kricker Innovation Hub. 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 7th, 2026: Coffee with a Colonial - 9 am-10 am at Tim Hortons (Portsmouth) Reoccurring every first Saturday of each month through August 2026. March 14th, 2026: St. Patrick's Day Parade - 11 am in downtown Portsmouth 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 April 4th, 2026: Coffee with a Colonial - 9 am-10 am at Tim Hortons (Portsmouth) Reoccurring every first Saturday of each month through August 2026. April 11th, 2026: 1,000 Miles of Canal: An America 250 Ohio Presentation on the Ohio Erie Canal in Scioto County - 11 am - 12:30 pm at the Scioto County Welcome Center in downtown Portsmouth. April 18th, 19th, 24th, & 25th, 2026: A Few Good Men presented by the Portsmouth Little Theatre 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 May 2nd, 2026: Coffee with a Colonial - 9 am-10 am at Tim Hortons (Portsmouth) Reoccurring every first Saturday of each month through August 2026. May 9th, 2026: Portsmouth Wind Symphony- Bold Brass, Hot Rythyms & Cool Vibes - 7pm at the Vern Riffe Center for the Arts May 16th, 23rd, and 30th, 2026: Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom Farmers Market - 9am - 1pm 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 6, 2026: April 4th, 2026: Coffee with a Colonial - 9 am-10 am at Tim Hortons (Portsmouth) Reoccurring every first Saturday of each month through August 2026. June 21, 2026: Portsmouth Connex's Wild Ride June 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th: Main Street Portsmouth In Bloom's Farmers Market - 9am - 1pm 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: April 4th, 2026: Coffee with a Colonial - 9 am-10 am at Tim Hortons (Portsmouth) Reoccurring every first Saturday of each month through August 2026. 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 August 1st, 2026: Coffee with a Colonial - 9 am-10 am at Tim Hortons (Portsmouth) Reoccurring every first Saturday of each month through August 2026. August 3-8, 2026: Scioto County Fair August 15-16, 2026: Revolutionary War Encampment - at Earl Thomas Conley Riverside Park 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 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 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!

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

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:

Events at Scioto County Public Library

Dine Culinary delights from around the county await you! With a diverse range of restaurants offering everything from authentic Mexican cuisine to our own spin on Southern BBQ, Scioto County is a gastronomic paradise for every palate. Scoop into Happiness: A Guide to Scioto County's Best Cool Treats Indulge your sweet cravings in Scioto County, Ohio, where the summer sun meets the cool delight of creamy frozen custard, rainbow... Burgers, BBQ, and Beer Bliss: A Guide to Savory Indulgence in Scioto County, Ohio If you're on the hunt for mouthwatering burgers, smoky BBQ, and a refreshing sip of beer, Scioto County has a lineup of restaurants... The Pastry Path: A Delectable Journey of Bakeries Throughout Scioto County. From classic mom-and-pop shops to artisanal bakeries, this guide will take you on a delectable journey through the county's finest bakeries. Sip & Savor: A Coffee Lover's Guide to Scioto County, Ohio 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. Slow Drip Coffee 415 Washington Street, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Slow Drip Coffee is a charming coffee haven with a unique history. Begin Quick Bites Adventure: A Guide to Savory Delights in Scioto County, Ohio When time is of the essence, but your taste buds demand satisfaction, Scioto County has an array of quick bite options that promise flavor-packed experiences. From locally roasted coffee to decadent pastries, this guide will lead you through a culinary journey of quick bites that delight and satisfy. Market Street Cafe 212 Market St, Portsmouth, OH 45662 Lunchtime calls for a visit to Market Street Cafe in Portsmouth, where fresh ingredients come together in delightful sandw Sabor Mexicano: A Guide to Exquisite Mexican Dining in Scioto County, Ohio Immerse yourself in the vibrant and spicy world of Mexican cuisine right here in Scioto County, Ohio. This guide invites you to discover... From Pizzas to Pastas: A Flavorful Journey Through Scioto County's Italian Eateries We invite you to indulge in a delectable odyssey that celebrates the rich traditions and flavors of Italy, as you uncover a diverse array...

Community Partners Ohio River Way Mission: T o help people find adventure, inspire care for the land and water, and boost the economies of vibrant Ohio River communities by building partnerships that promote safe, healthy outdoor recreation; education; & tourism. WEBSITE Portsmouth Connex Mission: To inspire activities of play, exercise, and social connections to promote health and wellness. WEBSITE Main Street Portsmouth in Bloom Mission: Main Street Portsmouth in Bloom works to provide services, incentives, and collaborative opportunities to promote a healthy economic downtown while preserving our historic integrity. WEBSITE Friends of Portsmouth Mission: To catalyze and organize progress and change in our community. WEBSITE Arc of Appalachia Mission: Our task is straightforward – to preserve the most intact wildlands remaining in Appalachian Ohio, and protect native communities that were millions of years in the making. Photo credit: Tremper Mound taken by Brian Prose WEBSITE Portsmouth Area Chamber of Commerce Mission: The Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer, non-profit organization that unites the efforts of business and professional individuals in an effort to foster a healthy economy to benefit the entire community. WEBSITE Shawnee State University Mission: We prepare today’s students to succeed in tomorrow’s world. Photo credit: Shawnee State University WEBSITE City of Portsmouth Where Southern Hospitality Begins WEBSITE Scioto County Commissioners Once a thriving river port and steel town, Portsmouth, the county seat, is revitalizing its economy through technological advances, improved educational opportunities and tourism. WEBSITE Scenic Scioto Heritage Trail The Scenic Scioto Heritage Trail offers those who travel its over 84-miles a journey through the rugged, heavily wooded Appalachian hill country and through an area rich in history, full of river lore and native American influences. WEBSITE

Arts & Entertainment Events in Scioto County Explore Scioto County’s vibrant arts & entertainment scene! This is your premier destination for live music, theater performances, and artistic experiences in Scioto County, Ohio. From kid-friendly art events at the Portsmouth Area Arts Council , to live concerts at Columbia Theatre , or a musical at The Vern Riffe Center for the Arts , there is entertainment for everyone. Enjoy local arts, live music, & theatrical performances right here in Scioto County, Ohio!

Outdoors and Parks & Recreation Events in Scioto County Are you an outdoors enthusiast looking for local fun? Find all the parks, recreation, and outdoor events near Scioto County, Ohio here! Visit the Nature Nook or go on a hike at Shawnee State Park , explore educational events at the Arc of Appalachia , or experience the Christmas and Easter Caves at the White Gravel Mines . Find outdoor events you’ll love in Scioto County, Ohio!

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!