Circleville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food to eat, and where to stay in Circleville, Ohio, with this comprehensive tour guide.


Introduction to Circleville

Nestled in the Miami-Scioto basins in the Midwest, Circleville is a small but charming city in Ohio that provides a glimpse of authentic American culture. Home to only 13,500 residents, Circleville offers tourists a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, hiking scenic trails, or immersing in the local food and drink scene, Circleville has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Circleville

Below is a list of places to visit in Circleville, divided into two categories: culturally important attractions and natural attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ted Lewis Museum

Opened in 1990, the Ted Lewis Museum showcases the life and work of America’s first pop star, Ted Lewis. This museum features a collection of memorabilia, exhibits, and interactive displays that take visitors on a journey through the jazz age of the 1920s and 1930s.

Ohio’s Small Town Museum

Ohio’s Small Town Museum is located in the heart of downtown Circleville and features six rooms showcasing artifacts and exhibits that reflect the history of Circleville and Pickaway County. This museum is a must-visit for history buffs and lovers of Americana.

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park

Hopewell Culture National Historical Park is a national park located just outside Circleville that preserves and protects the prehistoric Hopewell culture. Visitors can explore the earthworks, mounds, and other archaeological sites that date back to 200 BC.

Natural Attractions of Circleville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Pumpkin Show Festival

One of the biggest events in Circleville is the Pumpkin Show Festival, held annually in October. This festival celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage with contests, parades, and the world’s largest pumpkin pie.

Hargus Lake

Hargus Lake is located within A.W. Marion State Park and is a popular destination for water enthusiasts. Visitors can rent canoes, kayaks, or fishing boats to explore the lake. The park also has hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beach for swimming.

Deer Creek State Park

Deer Creek State Park is just a short drive from Circleville and offers plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The park also has a golf course, a lodge, and cabins for overnight stays.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Circleville

Circleville and its surrounding areas offer several hiking and biking trails that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few of the most popular routes:

  • Scioto Trail State Park: A 9.8-mile trail that runs through the forest and provides excellent scenic views.
  • Heritage Rail Trail: A 7.5-mile trail that stretches from Washington Court House to Chillicothe.
  • Hargus Lake Trail: A 1.4-mile trail that runs around Hargus Lake and provides easy access to fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

Best Things to Do in Circleville: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Circleville, there are many other fun and unique things to do in this town. Here are some of the best activities and tours to consider:

  • Circleville Ghost Tours: This guided walking tour takes visitors through some of the most haunted places in Circleville, including cemeteries and abandoned buildings.
  • Canal Winchester Distillery Tour: Just a short drive from Circleville, the Canal Winchester Distillery offers tours and tastings of their award-winning whiskey and gin.
  • Circleville Trolley Tour: This 30-minute trolley tour takes visitors on a historical journey through Circleville and highlights the area’s famous landmarks and historical sites.

Week-Long Itinerary for Circleville

If you’re planning to spend a week in Circleville, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day 1 - Explore downtown Circleville, visit Ohio’s Small Town Museum, and enjoy dinner at Gibby’s Eatery & Sports Bar.

Day 2 - Visit Hopewell Culture National Historical Park and take a hike along the Scioto Trail State Park.

Day 3 - Spend the day at Hargus Lake, rent a kayak or canoe, and have a picnic on the shore.

Day 4 - Take a guided tour of the Ted Lewis Museum, followed by lunch at Thompson’s Dairyland & Restaurant.

Day 5 - Explore the natural beauty of Deer Creek State Park, hike the trails, and have dinner at Crossroads Grille & Cantina.

Day 6 - Take a distillery tour at the Canal Winchester Distillery and have dinner at the Circleville Pizza Cottage.

Day 7 - End the week with a Circleville Trolley Tour and have a farewell dinner at Scioto Valley Coffee.

Food and Drink Scene of Circleville

Circleville has a vibrant food and drink scene that represents the area’s agricultural heritage and local culture. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pumpkin pancakes: A seasonal treat found at many local cafes and restaurants during the fall months.
  • Patty melt with fried pickles: A classic diner-style dish found at Gibby’s Eatery & Sports Bar.
  • Pizza: A local favorite at Pizza Cottage, Apollo’s Pizza, and many other local pizzerias.

Local Beverages

  • Homestead Beer Company: A local brewery that offers a variety of craft beers, including the popular Farmhouse Ale.
  • Circleville Vineyard & Winery: A family-owned winery that produces a range of red and white wines.
  • Bob’s Backyard BBQ & Beer: A local barbecue joint that serves up hearty meat dishes and a wide selection of domestic and imported beers.

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

Circleville offers a variety of accommodation choices, ranging from hotels and motels to bed and breakfasts and guesthouses. Here’s a list of the best places to stay in Circleville:

  • Hotel & Conference Center at Ohio Christian University: A modern hotel located on the campus of Ohio Christian University.
  • Cherry House Bed & Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast located in a historic 1840s mansion.
  • Budget Inn: A budget-friendly motel located on the outskirts of town.

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

Circleville is known for its agricultural products, especially pumpkins, apples, and corn. Here are some souvenirs and local products to consider taking home:

  • Handcrafted pumpkin pottery: Available at the Circleville Pumpkin Show Festival or at local artisan shops.
  • Apple butter: A local favorite found at any farmer’s market or grocery store.
  • Locally-made honey: Produced by local beekeepers and sold at farm stands and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Circleville

Circleville is known for its friendly and welcoming locals. If you’re visiting Circleville, it’s important to be respectful of the area’s traditions and customs. Here are a few tips:

  • Respect local property: Do not trespass on private property or disturb any historical sites.
  • Be courteous: Say “please” and “thank you” and practice good manners.
  • Dress appropriately: Avoid wearing revealing or provocative clothing and dress modestly.

Best Time to Visit Circleville

The best time to visit Circleville is during the fall months when the weather is mild, and the area is alive with autumn colors. The Circleville Pumpkin Show Festival is also a popular event held annually in October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Circleville

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

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take a guided tour to learn about the area’s history and culture.
  • Take precautions when hiking or exploring natural areas.

Don’t:

  • Trespass on private property.
  • Litter or damage historical sites.
  • Ignore local rules and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Circleville

Circleville is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions, such as locking your car and keeping your valuables out of sight.

Health in Circleville

Circleville has several medical facilities, including Circleville Apothecary and Berger Health System, that provide health services to locals and tourists.

Getting to Circleville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Circleville

The closest major airport to Circleville is John Glenn Columbus International Airport, which is about 30 miles north of the city.

Bus Stations Near Circleville

Greyhound buses operate from the Columbus Transit Center, which is about 30 miles north of Circleville.

Other Options

Renting a car or taking a taxi or rideshare service from the airport is the most convenient way to get to Circleville.

How to Get Around in Circleville

Circleville is a pedestrian-friendly town, and most attractions and shops are located within walking distance of each other. Alternatively, you can rent a car or take a taxi or rideshare service to get around town.

Where to Go Next from Circleville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Ohio, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Chillicothe: Located about 20 miles southwest of Circleville, Chillicothe is home to several museums and historic sites, including the National Road and Zane Grey museums.
  • Hocking Hills State Park: A popular natural destination with trails, waterfalls, and caves, located about 40 miles southeast of Circleville.
  • Columbus: Ohio’s state capital is about 30 miles north of Circleville and offers a wide range of attractions, including the Ohio Statehouse and the Columbus Zoo.

Conclusion

Circleville is a charming destination that offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and local hospitality. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historical sites, or excellent food and drink, Circleville is the perfect getaway for any tourist.

The Circleville Pumpkin Show The Circleville Pumpkin Show Ted Lewis Park Ted Lewis Park A rural store A rural store Circleville Post Office Circleville Post Office