Sunbury Travel Guide

Explore Sunbury, Ohio with our comprehensive travel guide. From natural attractions to cultural landmarks, hiking trails to food and drink scene, hotels to local customs, discover everything you need to know for an unforgettable trip.


Comprehensive Guide to Sunbury, Ohio

Nestled in the heart of Greater Columbus in Ohio, the charming town of Sunbury is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Visitors can discover a plethora of cultural and natural attractions, indulge in outdoor adventures, sample delicious local cuisine, and immerse themselves in the local culture. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, Sunbury offers something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Sunbury.

List of Places to Visit in Sunbury

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ohio Fallen Heroes Memorial - A tribute to the Ohioans who died in service to their country, this memorial features the names and photos of over 300 Ohioans who lost their lives in the line of duty.
  • Myers Inn Museum - Located in the heart of Sunbury’s historic district, this museum offers a glimpse into the town’s past through exhibits and artifacts.
  • Galena Historic District - A National Register of Historic Places site, this district features well-preserved 19th-century buildings that showcase the architecture of the era.

Natural Attractions of Sunbury: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Alum Creek State Park - Nestled along the banks of the scenic Alum Creek Lake, this park boasts over 4,630 acres of pristine natural beauty and offers opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, and more.
  • Sandel Legacy Trail - This 12-mile trail stretches from Westerville to Sunbury and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Heritage Trail - This 3.5-mile trail winds through Sunbury’s historic district and offers a glimpse into the town’s past.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sunbury

  • Alum Creek Greenway Trail - This 22-mile trail winds along the banks of Alum Creek Lake and offers stunning views of the water and surrounding forests.
  • Hoover Scenic Trail - This 10-mile trail runs through sun-dappled woodland and features a variety of wildlife, making it a popular spot for birdwatching.
  • Genoa Trail - This 5-mile trail runs from Sunbury to Galena and offers breathtaking views of the Alum Creek Reservoir.

Best Things to Do in Sunbury: Activities and Tours

  • Hot Air Balloon Rides - Take to the skies and get a bird’s eye view of the picturesque countryside.
  • Canoeing and Kayaking - Paddle along the scenic Alum Creek Lake and take in the beauty of the surrounding forests.
  • Wine Tasting Tours - Sample some of the region’s finest wines at local wineries.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sunbury

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Myers Inn Museum
Day 2 Explore the Galena Historic District
Day 3 Hike the Alum Creek Greenway Trail
Day 4 Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Day 5 Go canoeing or kayaking on Alum Creek Lake
Day 6 Sample local wines on a wine tasting tour
Day 7 Head to nearby Columbus for a day trip and explore its museums, art galleries, and restaurants

Food and Drink Scene of Sunbury

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buckeye Doughnuts - A delicious Ohioan specialty, these doughnuts are made with peanut butter and chocolate.
  • Ohio Beer Cheese Soup - This hearty soup is made with beer, cheese, and other local ingredients.
  • Skyline Chili - A Cincinnati favorite, this chili is typically served over spaghetti noodles and topped with cheese and onions.

Local Beverages

  • Central Ohio Wine Trail - Tour local wineries and sample the region’s finest wines.
  • Craft Brewery Scene - Sunbury boasts a thriving craft brewery scene, with several local breweries offering tours and tastings.
  • Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern - Sample the local beer and bourbon at this popular taproom.

Where to Stay in Sunbury: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Candlewood Suites Columbus Airport - A stylish and modern hotel located near the airport.
  • Hampton Inn Columbus/Delaware I-71 North - A comfortable and well-appointed hotel located just a short drive from Sunbury.
  • The Observatory Bed and Breakfast - A charming and cozy bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of Sunbury’s historic district.

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

  • Ohio State Hoodies and T-Shirts - Show your Buckeye pride with some Ohio-themed apparel.
  • Handmade Crafts and Pottery - Visit local craft markets and pick up some one-of-a-kind pottery and crafts.
  • Local Wines and Beers - Take a taste of Sunbury home with you and buy some local wines and beers to enjoy later.

Local Culture and Customs of Sunbury

Sunbury is a friendly and welcoming town with a strong sense of community. Visitors should dress appropriately for the weather and respect local customs and traditions. Tipping is customary in restaurants and cafes, and visitors should carry small change for tipping bellhops, maids, and other service personnel.

Best Time to Visit Sunbury

The best time to visit Sunbury is between May and September when the weather is warm and dry, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Fall is also a great time to visit when the leaves change colors and the surrounding countryside is at its most picturesque.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sunbury

Do:

  • Visit the local wineries and breweries
  • Explore Sunbury’s historic district
  • Try the local cuisine and specialties

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Ignore local customs and traditions
  • Be disrespectful to locals or other visitors

Safety and Health

Safety in Sunbury

Sunbury is a safe and welcoming town, but visitors should take standard precautions like locking car doors and securing valuables. Visitors should also avoid driving or hiking alone in remote areas at night.

Health in Sunbury

Sunbury has several medical centers and clinics available to visitors. For emergency medical care, visitors should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Getting to Sunbury: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sunbury

  • John Glenn Columbus International Airport - Located approximately 30 minutes from Sunbury, this is the nearest major airport to Sunbury.

Bus Stations Near Sunbury

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Located in downtown Columbus, this is the nearest bus station to Sunbury.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Sunbury by rental car, taxi, or ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.

How to Get Around in Sunbury

Visitors can get around Sunbury by rental car, bike, or on foot. Many of the town’s cultural and natural attractions are within walking or biking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the town without a car.

Where to Go Next from Sunbury: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Columbus, Ohio - Ohio’s capital city is just a short drive from Sunbury and offers a wealth of cultural and culinary attractions, from museums and art galleries to restaurants and cafes.
  • Hocking Hills State Park - Located approximately 90 minutes south of Sunbury, this park boasts stunning natural beauty and offers opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and more.

Conclusion

Sunbury offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and local cuisine that’s sure to delight visitors of all ages. The town’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, combined with its rich history and stunning scenery, make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Greater Columbus area.

The Ohio fallen heroes memorial and the old Courthouse The Ohio fallen heroes memorial and the old Courthouse