Springfield Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, see, eat, and experience in Springfield, Ohio with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best cultural attractions, natural wonders, outdoor adventures, food and drink scene, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


A Comprehensive Guide to Springfield, Ohio

Located in the Miami - Scioto basins, in Ohio’s Midwest region, Springfield is a lively city steeped in rich history and natural beauty. From visiting cultural attractions and exploring scenic trails to trying local cuisine and immersing yourself in local culture, there is so much to see and do in this charming Ohio town.

List of Places to Visit in Springfield

There are plenty of things to explore and see in Springfield. Here are our top places to visit in Springfield, Ohio:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Heritage Center of Clark County: This beautifully restored museum is home to a plethora of exhibits showcasing Springfield’s rich history.
  • Hartman Rock Garden: This magnificent garden was created back in 1932 and features more than 250 sculptures made of various rocks.
  • Springfield Museum of Art: This museum showcases local and regional art exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.

Natural Attractions of Springfield: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Buck Creek State Park: This state park is a perfect getaway for nature lovers with its beautiful lake, scenic trails, and camping sites. You can also go boating and fishing in the lake.
  • George Rogers Clark Park: This park is home to various walking and hiking trails, pavilions, picnic tables, and historical sites that offer fantastic views of the city.
  • Little Miami Scenic Trail: If you love hiking or biking, this trail is a must-visit. It stretches over 78 miles and takes you through scenic forests, rivers, and charming small towns.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Springfield

Springfield has some of the best hiking and biking routes in Ohio. Here are some of the best routes you can take:

  • Little Miami Scenic Trail: This trail is perfect for biking and hiking, with its scenic views of forests, rivers, and charming small towns.
  • Simon Kenton Trail: This trail runs through the heart of Springfield and covers over 18 miles, taking you through various historic sites and landmarks.
  • Buck Creek Trail: This trail is perfect for hiking and takes you through beautiful woods, across two bridges, and along Buck Creek.

Best Things to Do in Springfield: Activities and Tours

There are a variety of fun activities and tours to do in Springfield. Here are our top picks:

  • The Springfield Antique Show: This annual event takes place every May and September and is a haven for antique lovers. You can pick up some unique pieces here.
  • The Frank Lloyd Wright’s Westcott House: This historical house was built by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Take a tour to learn about its fascinating past.
  • The Pennsylvania House Museum: This charming Victorian-style house was built in 1890 and now serves as a museum showcasing antiques, paintings, and other collectibles.

Week-Long Itinerary for Springfield

If you’re planning to spend a week in Springfield, here is an itinerary that you can follow:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Heritage Center of Clark County and the Hartman Rock Garden.
Day 2 Explore Buck Creek State Park and go boating or fishing.
Day 3 Visit the Springfield Museum of Art, Little Miami Scenic Trail, and George Rogers Clark Park.
Day 4 Take a bike tour of the Simon Kenton Trail and Buck Creek Trail.
Day 5 Go on the Springfield Antique Show tour and visit the Frank Lloyd Wright’s Westcott House.
Day 6 Explore the Pennsylvania House Museum and take a scenic drive around the city.
Day 7 Go shopping for souvenirs and enjoy the local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Springfield

Springfield offers a variety of tasty dishes and local beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Skyline Chili: This popular local dish is made of spaghetti, chili, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Buckeye candy: This sweet treat is made of peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate and is a popular local snack.
  • Fried Chicken: This dish is a classic favorite in Springfield and draws in crowds from all over town.

Local Beverages

  • Mad River Brewing Company: This brewery offers a wide selection of craft beers and ales made from locally grown hops and barley.
  • Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: This brewery is a must-visit for beer aficionados and offers a wide variety of craft beers, ales, and stouts.
  • Heart of Ohio Winery: This winery is a favorite among locals, offering a wide selection of wines made from locally grown grapes.

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

Springfield has a variety of options for accommodations that cater to different budgets and needs. Here are some popular options:

  • Courtyard by Marriott: This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
  • Wingate by Wyndham: This hotel provides spacious rooms with modern amenities, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
  • Springfield Hostel: This is a budget-friendly hostel that offers comfortable rooms, a shared kitchen, and a communal area.

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or locally produced goods to bring home, here are some things to consider:

  • Locally made crafts: Local artisans create unique woodwork, pottery, and jewelry that are perfect souvenirs to take home.
  • Ohio wines: Take home a bottle of locally made wine from the Heart of Ohio Winery, made from grapes grown in the Ohio River Valley.
  • Antiques: Springfield is a hub for antique dealers, so you’re bound to find something special to add to your collection.

Local Culture and Customs of Springfield

Springfield has a rich culture that celebrates its history and natural beauty. To immerse yourself in local culture, here are some things to do:

  • Visit cultural attractions: Springfield has various museums and historical landmarks that showcase the city’s history and heritage.
  • Try local cuisine: Springfield has a diverse food scene that draws influences from different cultures and regions.
  • Participate in local events: The city hosts various events throughout the year, including the Springfield Antique Show, St. Rita Festival, and the iconic Clark County Fair.

Best Time to Visit Springfield

The best time to visit Springfield is in the fall when the leaves are changing colors, and the weather is pleasant. You can also visit in the spring when the parks and trails are in full bloom with wildflowers.

Do’s and Don’ts of Springfield

Do:

  • Visit the local attractions: Springfield has a rich history and beautiful natural landscapes, so take the time to explore these attractions.
  • Try local cuisine: Springfield has a diverse food scene featuring local favorites, so be sure to try some of these dishes.
  • Respect the environment: Springfield is known for its beautiful parks and outdoor spaces, so be sure to respect these spaces by not littering or damaging the environment.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local culture: Springfield has a strong community culture. Be mindful of the locals and their traditions.
  • Litter: Springfield is known for its natural landscapes, so be sure to pick up after yourself and not litter.
  • Ignore safety measures: Be sure to adhere to safety measures when exploring the natural spaces and parks in Springfield.

Safety and Health

Safety in Springfield

Springfield is generally a safe city. However, it is advisable to take precautions when exploring the city, and visitors should be aware of potential risks associated with outdoor activities.

Health in Springfield

Springfield has many healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, in case of any emergencies.

Getting to Springfield: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Springfield

The nearest airport to Springfield is Dayton International Airport, located about 25 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Springfield

The closest Greyhound Bus Station to Springfield is located in Dayton, approximately 25 miles away.

Other Options

Springfield is conveniently located near major highways, so you can drive to the city easily. There are also various rental car services available near the airport and downtown area.

How to Get Around in Springfield

The most convenient way to get around Springfield is by car. You can also explore the city on foot or by bike, as there are plenty of walking and cycling trails.

Where to Go Next from Springfield: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can try after exploring Springfield:

  • Cincinnati: Cincinnati is a bustling city known for its vibrant art scene and multicultural food scene and is located about 100 miles south of Springfield.
  • Columbus: Columbus is the state capital of Ohio and is known for its diverse food scene and rich cultural heritage and is located about 50 miles east of Springfield.
  • Kings Island: Kings Island is a popular amusement park located about 60 miles south of Springfield and has various thrilling rides and attractions for all ages.

Conclusion

Springfield, Ohio, is a charming city that offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring local museums and historical sites, hiking through scenic trails, or trying local cuisine, Springfield provides exciting opportunities for visitors. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Springfield with ease, allowing you to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

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