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Pickaway Experiences

Map of Ohio's Historical Underground Railroad Trail with numbered historic sites, including the John Rankin House in Ripley

Clarke-May Museum Featured on Expanded Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail

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Pickaway County is now represented on the expanded Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail.

The Clarke-May Museum in Circleville is one of 53 primary stops included on the statewide trail developed by TourismOhio. The trail connects visitors with museums, historic homes and other destinations that preserve the stories of freedom seekers, abolitionists and the communities involved in Ohio’s Underground Railroad.

Pickaway County’s Underground Railroad History

Several Underground Railroad conductors and stations were active in Circleville between approximately 1835 and 1860. Local individuals connected to these efforts included clergymen William Hanby and Immanuel Buchwalter, businessman Phillip Doddridge and George Stanhope, a Black worker who assisted freedom seekers.

Jonathon and George Dreisbach also operated as conductors in Saltcreek Township. Following the passage of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, Colonel Samuel Moore of Circleville became involved in the Underground Railroad.

Benjamin Hanby, who spent part of his youth in Circleville, later wrote the anti-slavery song “Darling Nelly Gray.” The song was inspired by the story of an enslaved man separated from the woman he loved.

Because much of the Underground Railroad operated in secrecy, not every route, station or individual involved was documented. Preserving the available stories helps visitors better understand Pickaway County’s place within this important chapter of American history.

Visit the Clarke-May Museum

Operated by the Pickaway County Historical Society, the Clarke-May Museum preserves exhibits, artifacts and information connected to Pickaway County’s past. Its inclusion on the Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail gives visitors another opportunity to discover the people and events that shaped the community.

The museum is located at 162 W. Union Street in Circleville. It is open Tuesday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m., with Saturday visits available by appointment. Admission is free, and donations are welcome. Visitors should confirm current hours before traveling.

Explore the Statewide Trail

The Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail features destinations that are open to the public and offer tours, exhibits or educational experiences. Travelers can use the trail to plan a history-focused day trip, weekend getaway or journey across Ohio.

September is recognized as International Underground Railroad Month, making fall a meaningful time to begin exploring the trail. The destinations and their stories can be visited throughout the year.

View the complete Ohio Historical Underground Railroad Trail and download the statewide map at Ohio.org/UGRRTrail.

For more attractions, events and travel ideas in Pickaway County, explore Pickaway.com or download the Discover Pickaway app.

Circleville Pumpkin Show

Celebrate America 250 at the 2026 Circleville Pumpkin Show

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This fall, one of Ohio’s favorite traditions will add a little extra red, white and blue.

The 119th Circleville Pumpkin Show returns October 21–24, 2026, bringing giant pumpkins, parades, entertainment, food, exhibits and generations of tradition to downtown Circleville. This year, the celebration will also commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, with special events and patriotic touches appearing throughout the Show.

For visitors planning a trip to Pickaway County this October, there will be even more to experience, beginning before the official four-day festival gets underway.

Start the Celebration on Tuesday

Pumpkin Show week will begin early this year with special opening activities on Tuesday, October 20.

Activities begin at 5 p.m. at Pumpkin Show Park, followed at 7 p.m. by a special “Pumpkin Show Celebrates 250 Years of Agriculture” Parade through downtown Circleville.

Agriculture has been at the heart of the Circleville Pumpkin Show since its beginnings in 1903, making it a natural focus for this year’s America 250 celebration.

The special parade will showcase agriculture past and present, including farm equipment representing different periods of the past 250 years, crops, livestock, FFA units, local high school and community marching bands, and special America 250 competition floats.

For visitors, that means Pumpkin Show week effectively begins a day earlier in 2026, giving you another reason to arrive early and spend more time exploring Circleville and Pickaway County.

Look for America 250 Throughout the Show

The America 250 celebration won’t be limited to one parade.

Patriotic themes will be woven into many of the competitions and exhibits visitors see throughout downtown Circleville.

Look for patriotic pumpkins and fruit and vegetable displays, America 250 canned goods displays, patriotic photography featuring pumpkins, themed baked goods and floral arrangements inspired by everything from the American rose to fireworks and the Fourth of July.

Even downtown businesses are getting involved through this year’s Window Trimming Contest theme, “Red, White and Winkie.”

Together, these special touches will connect America’s milestone birthday with the community participation that has helped make the Pumpkin Show what it is today.

Experience the Traditions That Keep Visitors Coming Back

There may be some new additions in 2026, but the heart of the Circleville Pumpkin Show isn’t changing.

Visitors can still experience the giant pumpkins and squash, agricultural displays, parades, marching bands, royalty, arts and crafts, flowers, baked goods, pumpkin pie, entertainment and other traditions that fill downtown Circleville each October.

Many of the items you’ll see on display are entered by people who live right here in Pickaway County and the surrounding Pumpkin Show trading area. The pumpkins, produce, flowers, baked goods, canned goods, artwork and handmade pieces aren’t simply displays. They represent the people and traditions of the community visitors have come to experience.

Make a Trip to Pickaway County

With special activities beginning Tuesday and the Pumpkin Show continuing through Saturday, 2026 is a great year to make more than a quick trip to Circleville.

Come early, stay a little longer and explore more of Pickaway County while you’re here. Grab breakfast or coffee before heading downtown, visit local shops, discover another attraction or enjoy dinner after a day at the Show.

The 119th Circleville Pumpkin Show is October 21–24, 2026, with special opening activities beginning Tuesday, October 20. Admission is free.

Additional schedules and Pumpkin Show information are available at pumpkinshow.com.

For places to stay, eat, shop and explore during your visit, head to Pickaway.com and start planning your trip.

2026 Circleville Pumpkin Show commemorative pin, America's 250th, with pumpkins design

2026 Circleville Pumpkin Show Merchandise Arrives August 25

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Pumpkin Show season is getting closer, and you don’t have to wait until October to bring home a piece of one of Circleville’s favorite traditions.

Beginning August 25, official 2026 Circleville Pumpkin Show merchandise will be available to shop in person at Circleville Apothecary, Ashville Apothecary and the Pickaway County Welcome Center.

This year’s merchandise includes official Pumpkin Show clothing and the 2026 commemorative pin, giving longtime collectors, local residents and visitors an early opportunity to celebrate the 119th Circleville Pumpkin Show.

A Special Pin for a Historic Year

The 2026 commemorative pin has an especially local story behind it. Circleville native Ava Neff created this year’s design, which was selected through a communitywide design contest.

Neff grew up attending the Pumpkin Show, helping at her mother’s Rhoads noodle booth and entering her photography in the Pumpkin Show Art Show. She served as Miss Pumpkin Show First Attendant in 2021 and remains connected to the tradition today through Ava Lauren Photography, photographing Little Miss Pumpkin Show contestants each year.

“Having my design selected for this year’s commemorative Pumpkin Show pin is truly a full-circle moment,” Neff said. “To now have the opportunity to create something that will become part of Pumpkin Show history is an honor I don’t take lightly.”

Her design also captures what makes 2026 unique. The pin incorporates the American flag, fireworks and the America 250 logo, recognizing the nation’s 250th anniversary while keeping the Circleville Pumpkin Show at the heart of the design.

“Blending America’s 250th anniversary with the traditions of the Circleville Pumpkin Show felt like a natural fit because both celebrate history, community, and pride,” Neff said.

Shop Pumpkin Show Before Pumpkin Show

For visitors who love planning ahead, the August 25 merchandise launch is a chance to shop Pumpkin Show before the streets of downtown Circleville fill for the annual celebration.

Official merchandise, including 2026 clothing and commemorative pins, will be available in person at three Pickaway County locations:

  • Circleville Apothecary in downtown Circleville
  • Ashville Apothecary in Ashville
  • Pickaway County Welcome Center in Circleville

Stopping in to shop is also an easy way to make Pumpkin Show part of a day exploring Pickaway County. While you’re here, grab a visitor guide, discover local shops and restaurants, and start planning what you want to see when you return in October.

The 119th Circleville Pumpkin Show will take place October 21–24, 2026, in downtown Circleville, with special America 250 opening activities beginning Tuesday, October 20. Admission is free.

Whether you’re adding another pin to a collection, looking for your 2026 Pumpkin Show apparel or simply ready for Pumpkin Show season to begin, mark August 25 for the start of in-store merchandise sales.

Learn more about visiting Circleville and Pickaway County at pickaway.com.

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Explore Pickaway County with Fall Park Programs

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Cooler temperatures, changing leaves and a full calendar of outdoor activities make fall a great time to explore Pickaway County. From guided walks and nature programs to creative workshops and seasonal family fun, the Pickaway County Park District has something planned for nearly every interest this September, October and November.

Whether you want to discover a new trail, learn a new skill or spend an evening under the stars, these programs offer plenty of reasons to get outside this fall.

September Programs

Fall begins with opportunities to get moving, get creative and prepare for the outdoor season.

  • September 2 at 9:30 a.m.: Walk-A-Long Wednesdays at Canal Park
  • September 8 at 6 p.m.: Wild Threads Fall Quilting Workshop at Park District Headquarters
  • September 12 at 9:30 a.m.: Hunter Safety at Park District Headquarters
  • September 16 at 9:30 a.m.: Walk-A-Long Wednesdays at Roundtown Trail
  • September 22 at 6 p.m.: Wild Threads Fall Quilting Workshop at Park District Headquarters

The quilting workshops require registration and cost $35 per participant.

October Programs

October brings nighttime nature programs, wellness activities, workshops and Halloween fun.

Learn more about some of the animals that become active after sunset during Parks After Dark: The Truth About Bats on October 3. One week later, visitors can look toward the night sky during Astronomy Night at Canal Park.

Additional October programs include:

  • October 3 at 7:30 p.m.: Parks After Dark: The Truth About Bats at Park District Headquarters
  • October 6 at 6 p.m.: Wild Threads Sewing Workshop at Park District Headquarters
  • October 7 at 9:30 a.m.: Walk-A-Long Wednesdays at Park District Headquarters
  • October 10 at 7:30 p.m.: Parks After Dark Astronomy Night at Canal Park
  • October 12 at 11 a.m.: Taste of Tai Chi at Park District Headquarters
  • October 16 at 6 p.m.: Basic First Aid and CPR Workshop at Park District Headquarters
  • October 21 at 9:30 a.m.: Walk-A-Long Wednesdays at Metzger Preserve
  • October 31 at 2 p.m.: Trick-or-Treat in the Park at Park District Headquarters

The Wild Threads Sewing Workshop requires registration and costs $35 per participant.

November Programs

The fall schedule continues into November with guided walks, hands-on workshops and programs focused on wellness and safety.

Celebrate National Take a Hike Day on November 17 with a special outing along the Roundtown Trail. Participants will meet on the YMCA side of the trail at 1:30 p.m.

Other November programs include:

  • November 4 at 9:30 a.m.: Walk-A-Long Wednesdays at Pickaway Trail
  • November 4 at 11 a.m.: Taste of Tai Chi at Park District Headquarters
  • November 11 at 10 a.m.: Fall Herbal Series: Fire Cider at Park District Headquarters
  • November 14 at 11 a.m.: Stained Glass Workshop at Park District Headquarters
  • November 17 at 1:30 p.m.: National Take a Hike Day on the YMCA side of Roundtown Trail
  • November 18 at 9:30 a.m.: Walk-A-Long Wednesday at Park District Headquarters
  • November 19 at 6 p.m.: Learn Before You Burn Fire Safety Demonstration at Park District Headquarters

Registration is required for the Fire Cider workshop, which costs $35, and the Stained Glass Workshop, which costs $120.

Make the Most of Fall in Pickaway County

The Park District’s fall programs are a great way to experience Pickaway County’s trails, parks and natural spaces. Before attending, check program information for registration requirements, recommended supplies, weather updates and any schedule changes.

While exploring, do not forget about Passport to the Trails. Visit participating parks, check in digitally and discover even more outdoor spaces throughout Pickaway County.

View program and registration information at pickawaycountyparks.org.

Exterior of a stone church building, similar to Circleville Presbyterian Church, the concert venue

Step Inside Pickaway County History During Ohio Open Doors

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Two Pickaway County landmarks will welcome visitors for special tours and programs during Ohio Open Doors, a statewide celebration of Ohio’s historic buildings, places and stories.

Ohio Open Doors takes place September 10 through 20, 2026. The program, organized by the Ohio History Connection, encourages communities to open historic spaces to the public for free experiences that may not be available during a typical visit.

This year’s celebration is also part of America 250-Ohio, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. Pickaway County visitors can explore St. Philip’s Episcopal Church and Mt. Oval Historic House and Farm during the weekend of September 12 and 13.

Tour One of Circleville’s Historic Churches

Founded in 1817, St. Philip’s Episcopal Church is one of Circleville’s longstanding historic landmarks. The current sanctuary was built in 1866 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

During Ohio Open Doors, visitors can tour the sanctuary, learn about the church’s history and hear about its role in the community. A docent will be available to answer questions, and light refreshments will be served in the adjoining parish hall.

The church is wheelchair accessible, with a large parking lot located next to the building.

Open house hours:

  • Saturday, September 12, from noon to 2 p.m.
  • Sunday, September 13, from 3 to 5 p.m.
  • Admission is free

Location:
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church
129 W. Mound St.
Circleville, Ohio 43113

View the St. Philip’s Ohio Open Doors event listing

An Afternoon of History and Remembrance at Mt. Oval

On Sunday afternoon, Mt. Oval Historic House and Farm will host a special program commemorating the 25th anniversary of September 11.

Visitors can learn about the circa 1832 Federal-style house, the families who lived there and the property’s place in Pickaway County history. The afternoon will also include tours of the historic log cabin and information about the area’s early settlement.

The Pickaway Community Band will perform a patriotic concert on the grounds, followed by a special tribute honoring first responders and veterans. Free chili and snacks will be available.

Guests should bring a lawn chair for the concert. Golf carts will be available to help transport visitors closer to the program area.

Event details:

  • Sunday, September 13, from 2 to 4 p.m.
  • Admission is free
  • Noncommercial photography is permitted

Location:
Mt. Oval Historic House and Farm
3601 Emerson Road
Circleville, Ohio 43113

View the Mt. Oval Ohio Open Doors event listing

Make a Weekend of It

The easiest way to experience both Pickaway County locations is to visit St. Philip’s on Saturday and Mt. Oval on Sunday. This gives visitors time to enjoy each program without rushing.

While in Circleville, plan time to explore local restaurants, shops and other historic places. Visitors traveling from outside the area can find nearby lodging and additional ideas for their stay at Pickaway.com.

Ohio Open Doors offers a chance to step inside places that have helped shape the community and to meet the people working to preserve their stories for future generations.

Learn more about the statewide program through the Ohio History Connection.

Immersion Festival 2026 poster, Mission Youth presents a free music festival with 4 stages and 60+ bands and artists, September 2026

Immersion Festival 2026 Brings 60+ Artists to Circleville, Ohio

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More than 60 bands and artists will take the stage in Circleville this September when Immersion Festival returns to the Pickaway Agricultural Center.

Presented by Mission Youth, Immersion takes place September 4–5, 2026, bringing two days of live music to Pickaway County. Admission is free, and the festival will also feature food trucks and vendors.

If you’re looking for live music in Central Ohio over Labor Day weekend, Immersion offers plenty to hear and see in one stop.

More Than 60 Bands and Artists

Immersion packs a lot of music into two days, with performances scheduled across multiple stages throughout the festival.

The lineup includes rock and heavier music along with acoustic and other performances, giving festivalgoers plenty of options throughout the day. Friday also includes a block party lineup.

With so many artists scheduled, visitors can come for a favorite band or spend the day discovering someone new.

Immersion Festival 2026 Details

Dates: September 4–5, 2026
Location: Pickaway Agricultural Center, Circleville, Ohio
Admission: Free
What to expect: 60+ bands and artists, food trucks, vendors and more

Festivalgoers should check Immersion and Mission Youth’s official social media pages as the weekend approaches for the latest schedules, announcements and event information.

Make More of Your Trip to Circleville

Coming from Columbus, Chillicothe, Lancaster or elsewhere in Ohio? Give yourself some extra time to explore Pickaway County while you’re here.

Grab coffee or breakfast before the music starts, stop at a local restaurant, browse shops in downtown Circleville or add another local attraction to your weekend plans.

Staying overnight also gives you more time to enjoy both days of Immersion and explore beyond the festival. Pickaway County offers hotels, cabins, camping and other lodging options for visitors.

You can find places to stay, dining, shopping and things to do at Pickaway.com.

What Else Is Happening Labor Day Weekend?

Immersion isn’t the only thing happening in Pickaway County over the holiday weekend.

Before you head out, check the Pickaway County event calendar for other events and activities you can add to your plans. New events are added throughout the year, so it’s also a good resource if you’re planning your visit ahead of time.

Explore the full event calendar at Pickaway.com/events.

Plan Your Visit to Immersion Festival

Whether you’re coming for one performance or planning to spend the weekend, Immersion Festival brings a full lineup of live music to Circleville on September 4 and 5.

With more than 60 bands and artists and free admission, it’s an easy addition to your Labor Day weekend plans in Central Ohio.

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Celebrate America’s 250th with a Free Drone Show at Deer Creek State Park Lodge

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Deer Creek State Park Lodge is celebrating America’s 250th anniversary with two days of free activities, outdoor fun and a nighttime drone show on Friday, September 11, and Saturday, September 12, 2026.

With events planned across both days, it is also a great reason to book a room or cabin and enjoy a September weekend at Deer Creek State Park.

The celebration will include a respectful tribute recognizing the 25th anniversary of September 11. All scheduled activities are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.

Friday, September 11

Friday begins with an interpretive walk led by a naturalist from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m.

At 9:59 a.m., guests will observe a moment of silence in remembrance of those lost on September 11.

Additional Friday activities include:

  • 12 to 2 p.m.: Touch a Truck
  • 2 to 4 p.m.: Animal Ambassadors in the lodge lobby
  • 4 to 6 p.m.: Juggler in the lodge lobby

Saturday, September 12

Saturday brings a full day of activities around the lodge and park.

The day begins with a classic car show from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. At noon, Tork’s RC Airshow will take place at the beach.

Other Saturday activities include:

  • 12 to 4 p.m.: Face painting in the lodge lobby
  • 1 to 3 p.m.: Touch a Truck
  • 2 to 4 p.m.: Up Close Magic Show with Cowboy Mark
  • 4 to 8 p.m.: Kids crafts in the lodge lobby
  • 6 to 10 p.m.: DJ Bones at the pool

See the Sky Light Up Over Deer Creek

The weekend’s main event begins at 9 p.m. Saturday with “Remember: Lights in the Sky,” a synchronized drone show presented by Fantasy Drone Shows and Regency Hotel Management.

The show will feature illuminated formations, patriotic symbols and colorful scenes celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

Arrive early to enjoy the day’s activities, explore Deer Creek State Park and find a good spot before the show begins.

Turn It Into a Weekend Getaway

With activities on both Friday and Saturday, staying at Deer Creek State Park Lodge makes it easy to enjoy the entire celebration. Guests can choose from lodge rooms or cabins and enjoy convenient access to dining, trails, the lake, golf and other recreation throughout the park.

An overnight stay also means you can relax after Saturday night’s drone show instead of driving home. Rooms and cabins may fill quickly for this special weekend, so advance reservations are encouraged.

Book your stay at Deer Creek State Park Lodge

Plan Your Visit

Deer Creek State Park Lodge is located at:

22300 State Park Road 20
Mount Sterling, Ohio 43143

The America 250 celebration takes place Friday, September 11, and Saturday, September 12, 2026. The drone show begins at 9 p.m. Saturday.

Visit the Deer Creek State Park Lodge event page for updates and additional information.

Image of orange neon sign saying "Tattoo" and the stained pumpkin tattoo convention logo in the corner.

Discover the First-Ever Stained Pumpkin Tattoo Convention in Pickaway County

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Looking for something unique to do in Pickaway County this summer? The first-ever Stained Pumpkin Tattoo Convention is coming to the Pickaway Agriculture & Event Center in Circleville on Friday, July 31, and Saturday, August 1, bringing together Ohio tattoo artists, local creators, live music, shopping, and family-friendly activities for a one-of-a-kind weekend.

Whether you’re passionate about tattoos or simply enjoy exploring local art and creative events, the Stained Pumpkin Tattoo Convention offers an opportunity to experience the growing arts community in Pickaway County.

Created by local organizer Ahneka Campbell, the convention was inspired by a desire to connect tattoo artists with other creatives and showcase the artistic talent found throughout Ohio.

Visitors can watch talented tattoo artists at work, meet artists from a variety of creative backgrounds, browse unique handcrafted goods, and enjoy live entertainment throughout the weekend.

The event will feature:

  • Ohio tattoo artists
  • Professional piercing services and jewelry
  • Paintings, photography, ceramics, embroidery, sculpture, and other artwork
  • Specialty vendors and handcrafted goods
  • Live music from Nick Wright and Trace Hawkins
  • Face painting by Crystal Colorz
  • Handcrafted mocktails from Tootles
  • A free children’s activity table sponsored by ArtsaRound, featuring coloring pages, temporary tattoos, and creative activities

Whether you’re planning to get tattooed, shop for one-of-a-kind artwork, or simply spend the day exploring something new, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Event Details

Stained Pumpkin Tattoo Convention
Pickaway Agriculture & Event Center
Friday, July 31 | Noon–9 p.m.
Saturday, August 1 | 11 a.m.–9 p.m.

Admission

  • Friday: $10
  • Saturday: $15
  • Weekend Pass: $20
  • Children 12 & under: Free

Tickets will be available at the door, and parking is free.

Make a Weekend of It

While you’re in Pickaway County, take time to explore everything the area has to offer. Browse locally owned boutiques in historic Uptown Circleville, grab a meal at one of our local restaurants, enjoy a coffee or sweet treat, and discover nearby parks, museums, and attractions.

Looking for more to do during your visit? Browse hundreds of local events, find places to stay, and start planning your trip at Pickaway.com.

Sunderland Canal Park

Get Outside, Get Exploring with Pickaway County’s Passport to the Trails

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Sometimes the best adventure doesn’t require packing a suitcase. It starts with a pair of comfortable shoes, a little curiosity, and a free digital passport waiting to be filled.

This summer, the Pickaway County Park District and the Pickaway County Visitors Bureau are inviting residents and visitors to experience some of Pickaway County’s favorite outdoor destinations through the new Passport to the Trails. Supported by presenting sponsor The Savings Bank, the free digital passport encourages participants to visit six unique parks and trail locations while discovering the natural beauty that makes Pickaway County worth exploring.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful morning walk, a family outing, or a chance to experience somewhere new, the Passport to the Trails makes it easy to turn an ordinary day into an outdoor adventure.

Six Stops, Countless Ways to Explore

Each passport location offers something a little different. Wander through the scenic landscape of Metzger Preserve near Williamsport, enjoy a stroll along the Roundtown Trail, discover local history at the South End Canal, or spend an afternoon at Canal Park, where families can enjoy one of the area’s most popular playgrounds. The passport also includes the Pickaway Trail and the Pickaway County Park District Headquarters, giving participants an opportunity to experience parks and trails across the county.

Every location features a QR code at its entrance or gathering area. Simply scan the code with your phone to check in and continue your adventure.

Your Next Adventure Starts with a Scan

Getting started couldn’t be easier.

Visit any participating park, scan the posted QR code, and begin exploring at your own pace. You can also sign up before your first visit by visiting pickaway.com or pickawaycountyparks.org.

There are no fees, no paper passports to carry, and no schedule to follow. Visit one location or all six throughout the summer.

More Than Parks

The Passport to the Trails also introduces visitors to everything the Pickaway County Park District offers beyond its beautiful green spaces.

Throughout the year, the Park District hosts nature programs, guided hikes, educational events, family activities, and seasonal experiences designed for all ages. These programs help connect the community with the outdoors while making recreation accessible across Pickaway County.

“I just love our parks, and I want everyone to get out and see them,” said Craig Sanders, Executive Director of the Pickaway County Park District. “We have some truly special places in this county, and a lot of people do not even know they are here. The Passport to the Trails is a perfect way to change that. Come check one out, and I guarantee you will want to come back.”

Over the past decade, the Park District has invested in new parks, trails, conservation projects, and recreational opportunities that continue to enhance the quality of life for both residents and visitors.

“The Park District is one of Pickaway County’s greatest assets, investing in 73 community projects including four parks and three trails within the last 10 years,” said Elizabeth Furniss, Executive Director of the Pickaway County Visitors Bureau. “The Passport to the Trails is an engaging way to connect people with our outdoor spaces and explore everything our county has to offer. We are grateful to The Savings Bank for their generous support and their ongoing investment in our community.”

Make This Summer an Outdoor Adventure

Whether you’re exploring Pickaway County for the first time or rediscovering a favorite park, the Passport to the Trails offers a fun reason to spend more time outside.

Pack a picnic, bring your camera, invite a friend, and see where the trail takes you.

The Passport to the Trails is free, open to all ages, and available throughout the summer.

Visit pickaway.com or pickawaycountyparks.org to sign up, or simply scan the QR code at any participating location to begin your adventure.

Ohio Ice Cream Trail promotional graphic showing a girl eating an ice cream cone, with the text 'Scoop Up Fun at 195 Stops' and Ohio.org branding.

Two Sweet Stops on Ohio’s Ice Cream Trail Are Right Here in Pickaway County

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Two Sweet Stops on Ohio’s Ice Cream Trail Are Right Here in Pickaway County

July is National Ice Cream Month, making it the perfect time to explore two Pickaway County favorites featured on the Ohio Ice Cream Trail. Whether you’re planning a summer road trip or looking for an excuse to enjoy a frozen treat close to home, these local stops are worth adding to your itinerary.

Circleville Dairy Shed

A summertime tradition for generations, Circleville Dairy Shed is known for its classic soft serve, sundaes, shakes and friendly service. It’s the perfect stop after exploring downtown Circleville, visiting a local attraction or attending one of Pickaway County’s summer events.

Crosstown Creamery

Nestled in the Village of Tarlton, Crosstown Creamery offers handcrafted ice cream in a charming small-town setting. Pair your visit with a scenic drive through southern Pickaway County or explore nearby parks and historic communities before treating yourself to a scoop.

Make It a Sweet Summer Adventure

The Ohio Ice Cream Trail features nearly 200 ice cream shops across the state, encouraging travelers to discover new communities one scoop at a time. Pickaway County is proud to be home to two of those featured destinations.

After enjoying your favorite flavor, continue exploring everything Pickaway County has to offer. From local festivals and outdoor recreation to unique shops and historic downtowns, there’s plenty to discover all summer long.

Browse our Event Calendar to see what’s happening during your visit, or explore more trip ideas throughout Pickaway County.

Where will your first stop be: Circleville Dairy Shed or Crosstown Creamery?

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