Events Calendar
Don't Miss These Historic Sites!
There are so many stories to tell about the history of Athens County, and thanks to community members' passion for preservation and restoration, many of those stories are still with us.
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Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is one of the most popular attractions in Athens County. Completely restored to their original splendor, the Scenic Railway passenger cars are a treasure unto their own. Passengers are treated to a ride through the beautiful Hocking Hills Region, from Nelsonville to Logan or Haydenville and back.
Moonville Tunnel Trail
Located deep in Zaleski Forest in Ohio near Lake Hope State Park, the Moonville Tunnel is all that remains from a small mining town that existed in the late 1850s.
Nelsonville's Historic Public Square
Nelsonville's historic public square is home to Stuart's Opera House and the host of Final Fridays. The Square itself is a historic treasure and reminds visitors that Nelsonville was a hustling and bustling coal mining community. Today you can shop to your heart's content, grab a bite to eat, or enjoy a show at Stuart's.
Ohio University
Established in 1804, Ohio University was the first institution of higher learning in the Northwest Territory. Take one walk on the historic College Green and you'll see why it's called one of the most beautiful college campuses in the nation.
Quilt Barn Tour
Don't forget your camera when you head out for the beautiful Quilt Barn Tour. No matter the season, the Quilt Barn Tour makes the perfect afternoon getaway. You'll see historic barns with quilt blocks painted by area artists and community groups, and all while driving on the scenic back roads of Athens County.
Stuart's Opera House
From 1879 to 1924, Stuart's Opera House was home to touring vaudeville, melodrama and minstrel shows, and the entertainment hot spot for Nelsonville and its surrounding coal mining communities. Today the theater has been completely restored and brings in talented national acts all year round.
The Ridges
The Ridges, originally known as the Athens Lunatic Asylum, were opened in 1874. Visible from the Ohio University's West Green, the old psychiatric hospital's grandiose buildings look over the Hocking River from atop a steep ridge. You won't want to miss The Ridges' magnificent architecture or historic cemeteries.
Athens County Historical Society & Museum
History buffs and the slightly curious alike can enjoy the Athens County Historical Society and Museum. With fantastic exhibits year round there are always new stories to discover.
Covered Bridges
Athens County's three covered bridges are tucked away on scenic backgrounds and surrounded by rolling hills and winding creeks. Don't miss the Blackwood Bridge, the Kidwell Bridge, or the Palos Bridge.
Eclipse Company Town
An old mining town, The Eclipse Company Town is just two miles north of Athens and Ohio University off of US 33 and Johnson Road near The Plains. Or ditch the car and take the Hockhocking Adena Bikeway straight there.
Indian Mounds
Athens County's first residents left their mark. Adena Indian mounds are sprinkled throughout Athens County. Visit one and touch a piece of living history.
Little Cities of Black Diamonds
Many of Southeast Ohio's coal mining boom towns still stand today. Tour the Little Cities of Black Diamonds and discover Athens County's rich past. Glouster, Trimble, Millfield, Sugar Creek and Buchtel are just a few of the little cities that were once flourishing economic centers for coal miners and their families.
Robbins Crossing
A completely restored 1850'-era Ohio Village, Robbins Crossing is an interactive way to give yourself or the kids a great history lesson. Talk to villagers, watch the blacksmith at work, or stop into the General Store.
