Here in Ohio, our historical sites tell an interesting story.
From ancient ruins to massive earthworks, there’s likely an incredible piece of the past less than an hour away from where you are. (Be sure to check out this list of ruins and earthworks.) Hopewell Culture National Historical Park is one of Ohio’s most impressive sites and somewhat of a hidden gem to those that aren’t familiar with the history and significance behind the earthworks. This is one park that Ohio explorers need to experience.
Mounds abound at Mound City Group in Ross County where you will find the largest collection of Hopewell culture burial mounds in eastern North America.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park/Facebook You’ll find it at 16062 OH-104, Chillicothe, OH 45601.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park preserves mounds that were built nearly 2,000 years ago. Mound City Group is the only fully restored Hopewell earthwork complex.
April Dray/Only In Your State This national treasure was once a site for feasts, funerals and rites of passage.
With more than 20 mounds, only one is elliptical-shaped. The others are dome-shaped. All of the mounds are situated in a 13-acre rectangular earth enclosure with walls that are 3-4 feet high.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park/Facebook Many of the artifacts and pieces of art uncovered here suggest extensive trade. The detail in the artwork also suggests that the people buried here were notable, meaning Mound City was likely a regionally important cemetery and place of ceremony.
On site, you’ll also find a nature trail and river walk along the Scioto River. There are no trails between the mounds, however you can respectfully stroll among the mounds.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park/Facebook Please note: Walking on the mounds or earthen walls is prohibited.
The Mound City Group Visitor Center features a small museum and educational film. Pieces of the artwork are also displayed here.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park/Facebook The Visitor’s Center is open every day from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. (except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day).
Strolling among these earthworks is fascinating when you think about what they were once used for and the cultural importance they had. This site is even a proposed nomination to the World Heritage List.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park/Facebook This is one park that belongs on every Ohioan’s bucket list.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park is located at 16062 OH-104, Chillicothe, OH 45601. Have you ever been here before? If so, share your photos and experiences with us!
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park/Facebook
You’ll find it at 16062 OH-104, Chillicothe, OH 45601.
April Dray/Only In Your State
This national treasure was once a site for feasts, funerals and rites of passage.
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park/Facebook
Many of the artifacts and pieces of art uncovered here suggest extensive trade. The detail in the artwork also suggests that the people buried here were notable, meaning Mound City was likely a regionally important cemetery and place of ceremony.
Please note: Walking on the mounds or earthen walls is prohibited.
The Visitor’s Center is open every day from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. (except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day).
This is one park that belongs on every Ohioan’s bucket list.
For more impressive historical sites in Ohio, check out our previous article: These 10 Trails In Ohio Will Lead You To Extraordinary Ancient Ruins.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
