Review of Chillicothe, Ohio
Adena Mansion and Gardens was the home of the 6th Governor of Ohio. The mansion has been restored to the 1806 condition, and the gardens have undergone major renovation. The view from the mansion is on the Ohio State Seal. Tours are available for this unforgettable historic site.
The Ross County Heritage Museum on Fifth Street features exhibits of early Chillicothe history, as well as the Civil War and the Hopewell mound builders. There is also other historical houses sponsored by the Ross County Historical Society, but you should call ahead for touring arrangements.
History isn’t always quiet, and it does not have to stay in museums. It is alive and well in the famous epic drama of the Shawnee leader and his struggles, Tecumseh. The reality of this play is so intense, that a spectator might wonder if they stepped back in time. The outdoor theatre also has an open-air restaurant, museum and a gift shop.
For more modern activities, you might want to see the Chillicothe Paints Professional Baseball team. The V.A. Memorial Stadium is slightly out of town, but there is nothing more American than supporting the local baseball team.
KC Raceway is a few miles out of town, but definitely not an attraction to miss. The roar of the cheering crowds is lost among the roar of the race cars running on the blacktop track. The noise can be heard for miles around every weekend in summer. The thrill of live racing action is contagious, but the noise might be too much for small children.
Although roller skating is much slower than high speed racecars, it is a sport that can be enjoyed by most family members. Cavalier Skating Rink has a flat wooden floor with lots of room to move around, and loud music to move to. Cavalier has a set schedule of adult night, family night and Christian music night, and is available for parties.
Shawnee Lanes is the ultimate game house. Plenty of top-notch bowling lanes, pool tables and video games will keep the family busy. A restaurant serves cold pop, delicious pizza and hamburgers, while an in-house bar serves drinks that can be took anywhere in the building.
Classic Theatre 4 is a walk in movie theatre, but don’t let the name fool you. They show current movie hits on four screens, and is a modern building. Of course, all the popcorn, candy and pop that anyone would want is there.
The Majestic Theatre has been in continuous operation since the 1800’s, and is still open for movies, plays and concerts. National Geographic has listed the Majestic Theatre as a travel site, although it is a community-centered company.
After a long day, a variety of restaurants wait to fill your belly. Some of the best is the authentic Mexican restaurant Los Mariachis, the Chinese and Thai cuisine of Bangkok Palace, and the down home cooking of Old Canal Smoke House.
Chillicothe is a nice place to visit or live, with many activities available year round. Ross County Fair, July 4thfireworks, motorcycle Rodeo, art galleries, shopping, the Feast of the Flowering Moon and lots more will keep anyone occupied.
