castles, caverns and chocolates

From Ohio’s highest point to a cavern deep underground, explore all this and more with a visit to “Ohio's Historic West". A State Designated Heritage Area dedicated to the development of cultural and heritage tourism, Ohio’s Historic West is an eight county region in beautiful west Ohio. It is truly a patchwork of diverse places which highlights many historic, cultural, scenic, and agricultural sites and attractions as you will experience with a visit to Logan and Champaign Counties.

Located along the eastern edge of Ohio’s Historic West, Logan County features many attractions for the wondering traveler. If castles are your fancy, visit the Piatt Castles just outside of West Liberty. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Piatt Castles were built in the late 19th century by the Piatt brothers Abram and Donn. The castles, which interpret more than 200 years of history, feature ornate woodwork, frescoed ceilings, and antiques.

Just on the other side of West Liberty a chocolate lover’s heaven awaits all who enter the restored train depot that houses Marie’s Candies. In 1941 polio struck a young hardworking farmer named Winfred King. Friends and neighbors helped the family and to express their gratitude Winfred and his wife Marie began to give the gifts of homemade candy. What began in a country kitchen has grown into a business now in its third generation.

Finally, if you are interested in unique landmarks visit Bellefontaine to find the first concrete street in America which was poured in 1891 by George Bartholomew. Or visit McKinley Street which is the shortest street in the world at only 30 feet long. Or visit the highest point in Ohio, Campbell Hill at 1,549 feet above sea level.

Just south of Logan County, you will find Champaign County bubbling over with natural wonders. As you enter Champaign County you will be immediately surrounded by the beauty of the gently rolling countryside. While in Champaign County, visit America’s most colorful cave, Ohio Caverns; take a walk through Ohio’s first nature preserve, Cedar Bog; fish at Kiser Lake State Park; or take a family bicycle ride on the Simon Kenton Bike Path, which begins in Champaign County and ends in Cincinnati.

Experience a “Taste of Champaign County” by enjoying locally grown and produced raspberries, freshwater trout and shrimp. Robert Rothschild Farm Market and Café features world-renowned and award-winning gourmet foods. Freshwater Farms of Ohio located just north of Urbana, is home to the largest indoor fish farm in Ohio.

Planning a fall getaway? Champaign County offers a drive it yourself  Barn Quilt Tour which features five display barns, each with various activities including quilting, art and architecture. In addition, quilts squares have been painted onto 40 barns to complete a “clothesline of quilts” throughout the county.

Discover the American Experience; explore Logan and Champaign Counties in Ohio’s Historic West. You’ll find yourself returning again and again.To requesta brochure map of Ohio’s Historic West call 800-860-4726 or check out the OHW website at www.OhiosHistoricWest.com

Ohio’s Historic West includes Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Darke, Logan, Mercer, Miami, and Shelby Counties.

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