Butler County Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay and do in Butler County, Ohio. Read this guide to learn about its rich history, natural attractions, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and much more.


Introduction to Butler County

Butler County is a hidden gem in the Midwest region of the United States, located in Greater Cincinnati, Ohio. Known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and top-class outdoor activities, this county offers visitors a unique experience. The county consists of 18 townships and 7 cities, each with their own distinct character and charm.

This guide is a comprehensive overview of Butler County, highlighting the top attractions, activities, must-visit places, hiking/biking routes, local cuisine, shopping, accommodations, and other essential information to help you make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Butler County

Butler County has something to offer for everyone, from families and cultural enthusiasts to history buffs and adventure seekers. Here are the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum: This outdoor sculpture museum boasts more than 300 acres of rolling hills, lakes, hiking trails, and more than 60 monumental sculptures from around the world.
  • National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting: Located in the town of West Chester, this museum tells the story of the Voice of America broadcasting network and its role in shaping global history.
  • Butler County Historical Society Museum: Explore the rich history and heritage of Butler County through an extensive collection of artifacts, exhibitions, and interactive displays.
  • Middletown Historical Society Museum: Discover the history of Middletown and Butler County through exhibits, photographs, and artifacts.

Natural Attractions of Butler County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Miami University Nature Preserve: This 100-acre nature preserve provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area through hiking trails.
  • Hueston Woods State Park: This vast state park offers visitors a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, boating and swimming.
  • Voice of America MetroPark: With over 435 acres of open space, this park offers visitors ample opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, canoeing and kayaking.
  • Great Miami Riverway: This scenic riverway has a variety of areas to visit, including Hamilton’s Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, the Fairfield Greens Golf Course and Ohio’s only professional minor league baseball team, the Hamilton Joes.

Hiking/Biking Routes in Butler County

Butler County has numerous scenic trails and bikeways that cover many miles. Here are the top trails for hikers, walkers and bikers:

  • Miami University Natural Trail: Located on the campus of Miami University, this trail provides a pleasant outdoor adventure for hikers, walkers, and bicyclists.
  • Great Miami Riverway Bike Trail: This 99-mile-long bike trail is a popular and scenic route for bikers, serving as a route from Sidney to Hamilton.
  • Mill Creek Greenway Trail: This trail connects Hamilton and Fairfield, and is a great opportunity to hike or bike along a flowing creek and experience beautiful scenery along the way.
  • Little Miami Scenic Trail: This groomed trail follows the Little Miami River in Greater Cincinnati, providing visitors with unparalleled views of nature.

Best Things to Do in Butler County: Activities and Tours

Butler County offers visitors a plethora of entertainment, activities, and tours! Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in rock climbing and kayaking, while those who enjoy a more laid-back experience can visit wineries and golf courses. Here are some of the top things to do in Butler County:

  • Take a hot air balloon ride: View the beautiful Butler County landscape from a unique perspective by taking a sky-high hot air balloon ride.
  • Explore the county on a Segway tour: Take a Segway tour through the historical areas and nature trails of Butler County while embracing the beautiful surroundings.
  • Enjoy a game of golf: With more than 25 courses in Butler County, golf enthusiasts can treat themselves to some fun and relaxing time.
  • Visit the Ozone Zipline Adventures: Get an amazing view of the Ohio Woods while flying through the air on this zipline tour.
  • Try local wine in the area: Take a tour of the wine country and sample some of Ohio’s best wines with an experienced guide.

Week-Long Itinerary for Butler County

Visitors can collect endless experiences during their visit to Butler County. Here’s an itinerary that will help you create the perfect week-long visit.

Day Activity
1 Visit Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum then Explore the rich history of Butler County
2 Experience the nature trails by hiking or biking during the early morning, spend the afternoon in Ozone Zipline Adventures
3 Play golf, spend the evening exploring the Butler County Historical Society Museum
4 Take a Segway tour of the area; spend the afternoon visiting the Middletown Historical Society Museum
5 Go on a hot-air balloon ride, take the evening to visit local wineries
6 Explore Hueston Woods State Park by canoeing; visit the National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting
7 Enjoy the local flavor by spending the day eating the local food, leaving with a treat for future memories

Food and Drink Scene of Butler County

Butler County offers some of the best food and drink experiences, centered on fresh ingredients and local produce. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks!

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buckeye Burger: This Ohio-inspired burger includes a beef patty, peanut butter, and bacon, and is a staple in Butler County.
  • Cincinnati-style Chili: Visit any local restaurant in Butler County and order the famous “chili four-way,” known for its unusual mix of chili with hints of chocolate and cinnamon over spaghetti noodles.
  • Fried Bologna Sandwich: A classic Ohio sandwich that involves bologna, melted cheese, and onions, which can be found at almost any diner in Butler County.

Local Beverages

  • Rivertown Brewing Company: Offering tasty brews such as Werewolves of Cincinnati, Lil Sipa IPA, and many other favorites.
  • Valley Vineyards: Take a winery tour through Ohio’s oldest wine estate, including wine tastings and wine making tours with lunch or dinner at the on-site restaurant.

Where to Stay in Butler County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Butler County provides a diverse range of options for visitors planning their stay. From top-class hotels to cozy guesthouses, here are the top options for visitors:

  • The Marcum Hotel & Conference Center: Located at Miami University, this hotel offers easy access to the campus and many attractions.
  • The Golden Lamb Inn & Restaurant: An iconic landmark since 1803, this historic inn offers a unique experience for every guest by blending past and present.
  • Cincinnati Marriott North: This modern hotel is centrally located in Butler County, making it the perfect base for exploring the area.

What to Buy in Butler County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Butler County offers a variety of souvenirs and local products to take home, making it easy to always keep your memories fresh. Here are some of the top items to look for:

  • Middletown Art Center: Visit the Middletown Art Center and find unique art pieces and handmade crafts.
  • Jungle Jim’s International Market: A true foodie delight, Jungle Jim’s offers a wide range of imported and local food and souvenirs.
  • Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum Gift Shop: Purchase unique items such as sculpture reproductions, textiles, jewelry, and local product line.

Local Culture and Customs of Butler County

Ohio is known for its hospitality and welcoming culture, with Butler County being no exception. Visitors should make an effort to be polite and respectful, and learn about local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Butler County

The best time to visit Butler County is during the summer months, from mid-May to late September. The weather is warm and ideal for outdoor adventures, and there are numerous events and festivals during this time, including the Ohio Renaissance Festival and the Ohio Sauerkraut Festival.

Do’s and Don’ts of Butler County

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Butler County:

Do:

  • Be respectful to the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural resources.
  • Ignore local signs and rules.
  • Be rude or disrespectful towards locals or fellow visitors.

Safety and Health

Butler County is a safe destination, but visitors should take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and well-being.

Safety in Butler County

  • Always lock your car and hotel room doors.
  • Be aware of your surroundings when hiking or biking on the trails.
  • Do not leave valuables in plain sight in a parked car or unattended room.

Health in Butler County

  • Butler County has a good medical infrastructure, with several hospitals and clinics throughout the area.

Getting to Butler County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some options for getting to Butler County:

Airports Near Butler County

  • Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG)
  • Dayton International Airport (DAY)

Bus Stations Near Butler County

  • Cincinnati Union Terminal Bus Station

Other Options

  • Driving: Butler County is accessible by car via several interstates and highways.
  • Rental Cars: There are several rental car companies located at the Cincinnati and Dayton airports.

How to Get Around in Butler County

Butler County can be best explored by car, bike or foot. Another option is public transportation such as the Butler County Regional Transit Authority (BCRTA), which operates bus routes in the area.

Where to Go Next from Butler County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Butler County’s central location makes it an ideal launching point for other destinations in the area. Here are some nearby destinations:

  • Dayton, Ohio: Visit the National Museum of the United States Air Force and the Dayton Art Institute.
  • Cincinnati, Ohio: Visit the Cincinnati Museum Center and the Cincinnati Zoo.
  • Newport, Kentucky: Visit the Newport Aquarium and the historic district of Newport, Kentucky.

Conclusion

Butler County, Ohio is a perfect destination for travelers seeking a unique and exciting experience. Whether you’re an art lover, nature enthusiast, or food lover, there’s plenty to see and do. Plan your trip now and explore the beautiful landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality of this hidden gem of the Midwest.

Butler County, Ohio Butler County, Ohio


    Hamilton
    Sharonville