Lancaster Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more of Lancaster, Ohio, located in the Greater Columbus area.


Introduction to Lancaster

Lancaster, located in the Greater Columbus area of Ohio, is a charming city that boasts of a rich history and diverse culture. The city promises its visitors exciting and memorable experiences through its variety of natural and cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, scenic views, and excellent food and drink scene. This comprehensive travel guide to Lancaster Ohio aims to provide you with in-depth information about the city and make your visit to Lancaster an unforgettable one.

List of Places to Visit in Lancaster

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Lancaster takes pride in preserving its rich heritage, and the city’s museums and historical places offer visitors an insight into the city’s past. The following are some of the most culturally significant attractions that should not be missed:

  1. Ohio Glass Museum: This museum is a celebration of Ohio’s glass-making industry that dates back to the early 1800s. Visitors can see demonstrations of glass-blowing and learn about the history of the glass industry.

  2. Sherman House Museum: It is a beautiful Georgian-style house that served as the residence of William Tecumseh Sherman, a renowned general in the American Civil War. The museum tells the story of the life of the Sherman family, and visitors can take a guided tour of the house and its premises.

  3. Georgian Museum: Built-in 1832, this museum is the residence of the largest collection of 19th-century American decorative arts in Ohio and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

  4. Decorative Arts Center of Ohio: It is a beautiful building that houses the Decorative Arts Collection – a mix of historic, folk, and contemporary art that reflects Ohio’s cultural diversity.

  5. Lancaster Camp Ground: It is a historic park where massive religious camp meetings were held in the 1800s. The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Natural Attractions of Lancaster: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lancaster has an abundance of natural beauty, and its outdoor adventures offer visitors unforgettable experiences. The following are some of the natural attractions that you’ll love:

  1. Rising Park: It is Lancaster’s iconic park, high above the city, offering picturesque views of the city and surrounding hills. The park features hiking trails, fishing ponds, pavilions, and a playground.

  2. Clear Creek Metro Park: It is a hiker’s paradise with 5,300 acres consisting of woodlands, ravines, and creeks with hiking trails, camping areas, and picnic spots. The park also offers horseback riding and rock climbing.

  3. Buckeye Lake: For water lovers, Buckeye Lake provides the opportunity to have fun in the water. You can try water sports like boating, fishing, and swimming in Ohio’s oldest man-made lake.

  4. Hocking Hills: If you’re looking for more natural beauty, then it’s well worth taking the time to explore Hocking Hills. It features breathtaking valleys, cliffs, waterfalls, and natural caves.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lancaster

Lancaster provides several trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts, offering them a chance to explore pristine nature while engaging in physical activity. Here are some of the must-do hiking/biking routes for adventurous souls:

  1. Lancaster Bike Trail: It is a 6.4-mile trail that runs through the scenic countryside of Fairfield County and features paved and unpaved areas.

  2. Canal Winchester Bike Path: It is a 3.2-mile trail that connects the cities of Canal Winchester and Lithopolis. The trail features beautiful farmlands, woods, and wetlands.

Best Things to Do in Lancaster: Activities and Tours

Lancaster offers an array of activities and tours that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the best things to do in Lancaster:

  1. Rockside Winery and Vineyards: It is a family-owned winery and offers tours and tastings, as well as food and wine pairings. It is a great place to relax with friends and family.

  2. Ohio Wildlife Center: It is a great place for animal lovers. The center provides medical treatment and rehabilitation to injured and orphaned wildlife.

  3. Olivedale Park: It is an amusement park for kids, featuring a playground, a splash pad, walking trails, and picnic areas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lancaster

If you’re planning on spending a week in Lancaster, here’s an itinerary that’ll help you make the most of it:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Ohio Glass Museum and the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio
2 Go hiking in Clear Creek Metro Park
3 Explore Hocking Hills
4 Take a tour of the Sherman House Museum and Georgian Museum
5 Go tasting at the Rockside Winery and Vineyards
6 Spend a day at Buckeye Lake
7 Visit the Ohio Wildlife Center and enjoy the Olivedale Park

Food and Drink Scene of Lancaster

Lancaster’s food and drink scene is diverse and offers a wide variety of options for foodies. Here are some of the must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Buckeyes: A traditional Ohioan treat made by dipping peanut butter balls in chocolate.

  2. Fried Bologna Sandwich: It is known to be the town’s staple food and often served in local diners.

  3. Hard Pretzels: Lancaster’s Utz Quality Foods is known to manufacture some of the tastiest hard pretzels in the US.

Local Beverages

  1. Buckeye Bourbon: It is a smooth and velvety bourbon whiskey distilled from a blend of specially selected barrels.

  2. Rockside Vineyards Wine: It offers a variety of locally grown red and white wines that are worth tasting.

Where to Stay in Lancaster

Lancaster provides several accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best options:

  1. Holiday Inn Express and Suites Lancaster: A comfortable and affordable hotel in the heart of Lancaster.

  2. Hampton Inn Lancaster: A high-end hotel with an indoor pool, fitness center, and complimentary breakfast.

  3. Smoke Rise Ranch Resort: An unconventional lodging option that offers rustic cabins, horseback riding, and other outdoor adventures.

What to Buy in Lancaster: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lancaster provides several unique souvenirs and local products that are worth buying. Here are some of the best options:

  1. Glassware: You can find handmade glassware at the Ohio Glass Museum and other local stores.

  2. Apple Butter: A local favorite, apple butter is made with fresh apples and spices.

  3. Organic Coffee: You can buy locally grown and roasted coffee beans at Lancaster’s local stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Lancaster

Lancaster is a hospitable and welcoming city that takes pride in preserving its cultural heritage. The locals are friendly and helpful, and visitors are often greeted with a warm smile.

Best Time to Visit Lancaster

Lancaster can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from September to November when the temperature is mild, and the fall colors make the landscapes even more stunning.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lancaster

Do:

  1. Do try the Fried Bologna Sandwich – it’s a local specialty.

  2. Do visit the Glass Museum and the Natural Parks.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter – the city is strict when it comes to littering.

  2. Don’t forget to carry a jacket and comfortable walking shoes while visiting natural parks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lancaster

Lancaster is a safe city, and visitors don’t have to worry about their safety. However, it is advisable to take precautionary measures like not walking alone late at night and keeping an eye on your belongings while in crowded areas.

Health in Lancaster

Lancaster has good medical facilities that provide medical aid to visitors in case of any medical emergency.

Getting to Lancaster: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lancaster

The nearest airport to Lancaster is John Glenn Columbus International Airport, which is about 35 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Lancaster

The city is well-connected by Greyhound Buses, and the bus station is situated in the heart of downtown.

Other Options

Car rental services and taxis are also easily available in the city.

How to Get Around in Lancaster

The best way to get around the city is by car. However, if you don’t have your vehicle, you can take a bus or hire a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Lancaster: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lancaster is surrounded by several nearby destinations and excursions that are worth exploring:

  1. Columbus, Ohio: It’s just a short drive away from Lancaster and home to several cultural attractions, shopping centers, and restaurants.

  2. Cincinnati, Ohio: It is a two-hour drive from Lancaster and features popular attractions like the Cincinnati Zoo, Cincinnati Museum Center, and the Great American Ball Park.

Conclusion

Lancaster is a city that offers something for everyone, from beautiful natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage to exciting outdoor adventures and unique food and drink options. This comprehensive travel guide aims to provide the visitors with in-depth information about Lancaster and make their visit an unforgettable one.