A Family Weekend
Canal Park ziplines, pumpkin donuts, downtown Circleville, and enough open space to wear everyone out. A weekend the whole family will want to repeat.
Stops at a Glance
Settle in and head to Gant’s Pizza in Circleville for an easy, kid-friendly dinner. It has been a local favorite for good reason — the kind of place that feels comfortable from the first visit. If you are coming from the north and exploring Ashville earlier in the day, Blades Pizza is another great option before heading back toward your lodging.
Start at Canal Park, just southwest of Circleville along the Scioto River. This 57-acre park has something for every member of the group and is easy to spend a full morning at without running out of things to do.
The natural playground and two ziplines are the first thing kids will head for. Beyond that, the two-mile Towpath Trail follows the river through woods, wetlands, and past old canal features — it is flat, easy, and great for birdwatching if anyone in your group is into that. There is also a kayak and canoe launch on the Scioto River, a connection to the Pickaway Trail for longer outings, and open green space for just spreading out and letting everyone decompress.
If your visit falls when Slate Run Living Historical Farm is open, it is worth the drive north. Costumed interpreters demonstrate 1880s farm life — hands-on and genuinely engaging for kids. Check the Metro Parks website for seasonal hours before you go.
Spend the afternoon in downtown Circleville. Stop at Wittich’s Fine Candies before 5 PM for a soda fountain treat. In business since 1840, Wittich’s is the oldest family-owned confectionery in the country — the vintage soda fountain alone is worth the stop.
Check the calendar for events at the Pickaway Ag & Event Center or other weekend happenings around town. Downtown Circleville is walkable and compact, which makes it easy to browse at whatever pace works for your group.
If the weather does not cooperate, Gravity Trampoline Park is a full indoor trampoline park that keeps kids moving regardless of what is happening outside. Events at Circle City Event Center are another option depending on what is on the calendar.
Before heading home, take a walk around Hargus Lake at A.W. Marion State Park in Circleville. The trail circles the lake and is an easy, peaceful way to end the weekend. Alternatively, Marvin Webster Park in South Bloomfield has a playground, open green space, and picnic areas for one last stretch outside before the drive home.