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. 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

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Springtime Splendor: Embrace the Beauty of Spring in Scioto County 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 Families EXPLORE Indoor Recreation EXPLORE History Buffs 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 14 DAYS TO THE EVENT The P'Town Float Jun 02, 2024, 8:30 AM EDT Alexandria Point Park Join us for a day of paddling on the Ohio River. Kayak or canoe a 7-mile stretch of the Ohio River alongside the Ohio River Challenge Canoes. The P'Town Float is FREE to attend. Click the Register Now button for more details about the event. Register Now 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 Day Hikes in Scioto County Explore Scioto Counties' best day hiking options for the novice, intermediate, and advanced hikers. 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 Day Hikes in Scioto County Explore Scioto Counties' best day hiking options for the novice, intermediate, and advanced hikers. 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 Day Hikes in Scioto County Explore Scioto Counties' best day hiking options for the novice, intermediate, and advanced hikers. 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 Day Hikes in Scioto County Explore Scioto Counties' best day hiking options for the novice, intermediate, and advanced hikers. 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 Day Hikes in Scioto County Explore Scioto Counties' best day hiking options for the novice, intermediate, and advanced hikers. 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 Day Hikes in Scioto County Explore Scioto Counties' best day hiking options for the novice, intermediate, and advanced hikers. 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 Day Hikes in Scioto County Explore Scioto Counties' best day hiking options for the novice, intermediate, and advanced hikers. 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 Day Hikes in Scioto County Explore Scioto Counties' best day hiking options for the novice, intermediate, and advanced hikers. 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

Plan your visit Planning a day trip or weekend getaway is the perfect way to break free from the routine and explore new horizons. Whether you choose to embark on a thrilling outdoor adventure, immerse yourself in cultural experiences, or simply relax in a charming destination, the anticipation of a well-planned escape promises endless excitement and cherished memories. Springtime Splendor: Embrace the Beauty of Spring in Scioto County, Ohio As winter gives way to the vibrancy of spring, Scioto County awakens with a renewed energy, offering a host of captivating experiences... Indoor Amusement: A Guide to Scioto County’s Indoor Entertainment and Recreation Escape from reality and challenge yourself or your friends to a thrilling experience at one of our unique indoor recreational spaces. Scioto County, Ohio Prehistoric Cultural Heritage Guide Scioto County has been a prime location for human settlement since the end of the last Ice Age. Autumn Escapade: Embrace the Magic of Fall in Scioto County, Ohio As the leaves transform into a symphony of colors, Scioto County beckons with a captivating array of autumn experiences that celebrate... Winter Wonderland: Embrace the Magic of Winter in Scioto County, Ohio As the air turns crisp and snow blankets the landscape, Scioto County transforms into a winter wonderland filled with enchanting... Exploring Scioto County's Free Year-Round Treasures Discover the beauty and culture of Scioto County, Ohio, without breaking the bank. A Guide to Historic Portsmouth, Ohio By Andrew Feight, Ph.D. Director, Center for Public History Shawnee State University Located in southern Ohio in the western foothills of... Foodies: A Food Lover's Day Trip Guide to Scioto County, Ohio For food enthusiasts, Scioto County, Ohio, is a treasure trove of culinary experiences waiting to be explored. From savory smoked meats... Family Fun Escapade: A Day Trip Guide to Scioto County, Ohio This guide will take your family on a whirlwind journey filled with interactive experiences, delicious treats, and outdoor play. Weekend Adventure: A Family-Friendly Escape to Scioto County, Ohio Get ready for a weekend that promises unforgettable family moments in Scioto County, Ohio. From interactive museums to outdoor... Summer Adventures in Scioto County, Ohio: A Visitor's Ultimate Guide Summer Escapades in Scioto County, Ohio: A Visitor's Ultimate Guide As the sun shines brighter and the days grow longer, Scioto County,...

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:

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 . 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.

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 1810 House 1926 Waller Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Greenlawn Cemetery 1618 Offnere Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Scioto County Heritage Museum 623 Market Street Portsmouth, OH 45662 Website Candyland Children's Museum 202 Market 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 217b Market 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 Calendar of Events EXPLORE