Over the past few years I have found myself taking little road trips to Springfield, Ohio to explore different things in or near the city. And during all those times it finally occurred to me- Springfield has a lot to offer! So if you haven’t explored it before, allow me to present to you some ideas of what to do when visiting Springfield, Ohio.
About Springfield, Ohio
Located about an hour away from Columbus, Springfield is near Dayton and not a bad drive from Cincinnati either. Maybe you don’t know much about Springfield, beyond it once being part of a debate about in which Springfield the Simpsons resided (spoiler- it’s not the one in Ohio). But Springfield has a very interesting history.
Let’s talk dates- the first cabin in Springfield was constructed in 1799. In 1801 it was official founded, and in 1818 it became the county seat of Clark County. Springfield has many nicknames: while it is most commonly known as Champion City (because of Champion reaper farming equipment that was produced in the city), it is also referred to as Home City and City of Roses. Fun fact- in 1919 there were 33 greenhouses in Springfield that were producing more roses than any other city in the world!
And if you’re a trivia fan like me, here’s another fun fact. In 1839, the National Road (the “Main Street of America” {route 40} that was authorized by Congress and began in Maryland in 1811) reached Springfield. However, the route was then delayed for 10 years when some disagreements arose about the route, and Springfield was known as “the City at the End of the Road”.
Now that you know a bit about Springfield, and know that it is not just the birthplace of John Legend (shameless brag of the time John Legend came to my workplace a gave a small concert for the students and staff), let’s talk about some of the great places to explore when visiting Springfield. Whether you like art & architecture, hiking and biking the outdoors, or are just more into the shopping, food and drink scene, Springfield has it all.
Art & architecture in Springfield
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Westcott house
I have a deep admiration and fascination with architecture by Frank Lloyd Wright. Last year, I drove to Michigan to visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Smith house, and I was surprised to find out there is a home in Springfield, Ohio by Wright that is open to visitors. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Wescott house was designed in 1906 and completed in 1908 and it’s his only prairie style home in Ohio.
Prairie Style Homes
Wrights’ Prairie style homes date from about 1893 through the first World War and they brought him international acclaim. Prairie Style homes are meant to blend in with the surrounding landscape, mimicking the flat prairies of the US Midwest, and spreading out horizontally. They are built with local materials such as wood, stucco, stone, and brick. They have lots of windows to bring the outdoors in. These homes feature large central fireplaces and hearths. In the Westcott home the fireplace was the focal point, and there are benches on either side of the fireplace.
Wright designed the Westcott House with the windows on the ground floor to be at a level so one would look out and see the park sitting across from the home rather than the road just in front of the house. Wright always wanted nature to be a focus of a home. Outside the house is a reflecting pool and Wright made use of Cherokee Red (his favorite color) on the brick patio and fabric awning.
Prairie-style houses often feature artisan craftsmanship, incorporating handmade elements like stained glass, decorative woodwork, and built-ins. Besides leaded glass, Wright did not like ornamentation inside of homes. Instead, he preferred juxtaposed shapes and forms. Wright designed chairs, windows, light fixtures and tables that were meant to sit in the houses that he designed. In the Westcott House you can see the dining room table he designed. Notice the lights on the side of the table, built so there was nothing blocking the diners views on each other. The electricity is hidden into the legs of the table.
The Westcott Family
Our incredible tour guide not only informed us on the architecture of the home, but also taught us all about the Wescott family, who moved to Springfield from Richmond in 1903. The patriarch of the family, Burton, was head of the American Seeding machine company. His wife, Orpha, was a very prominent and progressive woman. The tour takes visitors into their bedrooms, as well as those of their children. The separate bedrooms of Burton and Orpha (with connected door) have attached bathrooms, closets, outdoor patio spaces (often used for sleeping) and TONS of natural lighting.
The tour also goes into the servant rooms, as well as the kitchen, which had an ice box that was accessible from the outside- perfect for deliveries of ice and groceries! The house also features gardens, and a garage with stables that are connected by a pergola. The garage is where the visitor center is now located.
Restoration of the Westcott House
Following the death of Orpha in 1923 and Burton in 1926, the home was lived in by a second owner until the 1940s, when it was bought and converted into apartments. The interior was changed in order to do this, including walls being built in the middle of and separating some of the original rooms. Over the years the home fell into disrepair. The house underwent a $5.3 million restoration in 2005 and it now looks as it did when it was first built. I loved the skylight at the top of the stairs, and you can see how the restorers painted the walls as they would have looked when the Westcott family lived in the house.
Visitors can go on docent lead tour, available Tuesday through Sunday. Our tour lasted about an hour and a half and cost $18. See their website for more information.
Hartman Rock Garden
Let’s talk about another home, but one with a different type of focus of art and architecture with the Hartman Rock Garden.
Ben Hartman moved to Springfield in 1912, working at the Springfield Machine Tool Company. In 1932, during the Great Depression, Hartman was laid off from his job, and not liking a lifestyle of idleness, he began constructing a cement pond in his backyard. By the time he finished that project, he was hooked to creating objects from cement by hand. Over the next 12 years he added hundreds of structures to his backyard.
Exploring Hartman Rock Garden
The themes in the backyard vary- there are religious themes, like Noah’s Ark, with animals walking in two by two, but there are also historical and political themes. Death Valley is filled with cacti and features wagons being pulled by oxen. In another part of the garden, is the Village and Farm House.
The Liberty Bell sits over a representation of Flanders Field with a sign reading “the sad part of war”. The “Tree of Life” sculpture was the garden’s first abstract object. It resembles a cactus, with a school house on one arm and a church on the other. On top- and eagle is perched. All these objects showcase Hartman’s three loves- religion, education and country. Towering over a large part of the yard is the castle- standing 12 feet tall and reportedly using 100,000 stones. It comes complete with a drawbridge and moat.
After Ben Hartman died in 1944, his wife Mary took over maintaining the garden, giving tours and even adding some details. Mary passed away in 1997, but in 2008 the Kohler Foundation, known for preservation of visionary art, purchased the property, and it is continued to be preserved today. The garden is free to visit, though they do have donation boxes on the property. I thought it was really whimsical and fun, a great stop when you’re visiting Springfield, Ohio.
Springfield Murals
There are several beautiful murals in downtown Springfield, and in fact on one of the days I was in Springfield there was a walking tour pointing them out. Probably the most visited is the Springfield Postcard mural.
The Greetings from Springfield mural was completed by Victor Ving and Lisa Beggs, who have painted over 40 similar postcard murals across 20 states. The mural has big block letters and pictures of local landmarks illustrated on it, like the Westcott house in the I & E and the Hartman Rock Garden as well!
Wandering around the quaint downtown of Springfield is an enjoyable experience, checking out restaurants and shops, and seeing the murals just adds to the experience.
Hiking and Biking in Springfield
Buck Creek State Park
If outdoor adventuring is more your thing, visiting Springfield, Ohio is a great option. Buck Creek State Park has a large reservoir where you can use your unlimited horsepower boat, or go fishing. The park also has a campground, and family vacation cabins.
Lakeview Trail
There are trails for both hikers and horseback riders. The day I visited I opted for the Lakeview Trail, a 2.9 mile one-way trail. It follows along the lake, past cabins and campsites, and is moderate difficulty. I passed some fisherman, and saw the disc golf course as well.
At times the trail got very narrow, but it was really lovely. Towards the end of the trail there started to be signs identifying tree, and even poison ivy. I got to see Ole Harley, a 345 year old Burr Oak tree. He is massive, and beautiful, and I really enjoyed sitting at the bench in front of him and taking him in.
Another find on the Lakeview Trail was a section hidden off the main path, which was quite a little haven. The little copse with mossy covered ground was perfect for taking a break- relaxing while listening to the wind, crickets and birdsong. It was so calm and serene, and thoroughly lovely.
Little Miami Scenic Trail
Another outdoor adventure option is biking, hiking or even going by horseback on the Little Miami Scenic Trail. The Little Miami Scenic Trail spans just over 78 miles from Springfield to the outskirts of Cincinnati. It passes through State Parks, small towns, over historical bridges and through stunning natural habitats. Starting at Buck Creek State Park, it passes near the city center and through several city parks. Read more about biking and breweries on the Little Miami Scenic Trail here.
Indian Mound Reserve & Cedar Cliff Falls
Located in Cedarville, Ohio, just 13 miles from Springfield, is Cedar Cliff Falls. It is actually part of the Indian Mound Reserve, which is three parks in one – Peterson Park, Williamson Mound and Cedar Cliff Falls. I took a trip to see Cedar Cliff Falls with my friend Hannah and our dogs last summer.
Gorge Trail at Indian Mound Reserve
There are a couple trail options at Indian Mound Reserve. First we did the Gorge Trail. This trail follows the base of the cliffs that form the gorge at Massie Creek. We played around here, under the cliff overhang but unfortunately this is where I took a fall off a rock and busted my lip. It didn’t stop the hike, and I have a nice scar to remind me of that day. There are some stairs involved with this trail, but it was an easy hike (tell that to my lip).
The Gorge Trail also leads to a 1825 restored log house. From here, you can continue onto another trail to the Peterson Park, which is 1.2 miles one way.
Rim Trail & Cedar Creek Falls at Indian Mound Reserve
The Gorge Trail meets the Rim Trail. This 1.5 mile one-way trail leads to an observation platform to view the Cedar Creek Falls. The waterfall is man-made and drops 18 feet, but it really is beautiful. That hike is one of the last I had with my sweet pup Oliver, who adventured with me 15 years.
Another trail option is 1.1 mile Mound Trail. This is the trail to view, and even climb, an ancient Indian Adena mound. The Adena Mound was built in approximately 500 B.C. Mounds like these are believed to have been used for either burial or as lookouts. This mound stands 30 feet and is 140 feet in diameter.
Clifton Mill
If you do visit Indian Mound Reserve in Cedarville, consider making a stop at nearby Clifton Mill. Located 15 minutes outside of Springfield, the historic Clifton Mill is a picturesque stop, with a working mill and covered bridge. Or stay longer, take a tour of the site or grab a bit to eat. Clifton Mill is one of the largest water powered grist mills still in existence. The first mill at this site was built in 1802 by founder Owen Davis. Set on the Little Miami River, the mill is now owned by the Satariano family, who run a restaurant offering breakfast and lunch until 3 weekdays, or 4pm on weekends. The menu changes seasonally, and pies and cookies are baked fresh daily.
The mill still operates, converting water power into energy. Visitors can tour the facility and see how grain was found into flour using stones as well as early machinery. There is also a gift shop, decorated with antiques. During Christmas season, they have a light display of over four million lights and a collection of over 3000 Santa’s.
Antiquing
If shopping interests you more than the outdoors, there are some great options in Springfield- particularly if you like antiques. Springfield’s Heart of Ohio Antique Center is the country’s largest indoor antique mall.
At over 116,000 square feet of space with over 650 dealers, there is so much one could find, and it would be almost impossible to see it all in one day. Luckily, it is open 362 days a year from 9:30am-6pm. Located just off interstate 70 its super easy to get to. And if that’s not enough for you, further down Interstate 70 there are two other antique stores which make the Springfield Antique Center. SAC offers over 75,000 square feet of space all on one floor. They have an ever-changing, large inventory and they even allow dogs to shop with you.
Eating and Drinking while visiting Springfield
A road trip for me isn’t complete without checking out some local breweries, and Springfield has two in town. And of course you want to check out the food scene. All my visits have been to casual places for dinner, but I give all of the following places my recommendation when you are visiting Springfield.
Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company
Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company is located in a historic warehouse in downtown Springfield. This brewery has an outdoor beer garden complete with live music. They often have events, from music festivals, film screenings, food trucks, an indoor farmers market in the winter, and more. Their beer changes frequently, often using many locally sourced ingredients. It’s a great place for hanging out, and I appreciated being able to have our doggies on the patio. Make sure to stop by when you’re visiting Springfield. Closed Monday and Tuesday, they are open Wednesday & Thursday from 3-10, Friday from 3-11, Saturday 11-11 and Sunday 11-8.
CoHatch- The Market
CoHatch is a business found in 7 locations- including Columbus and Florida, and there is one in Springfield. And it is a great concept: CoHatch- The Market combines work (with 16 spaces for work- including meeting rooms and office spaces which people can use for a membership or daily fee) with fun. There is a food hall with 9 different vendors which include a brewery (North High Brewing) and bar. There is plenty of seating inside, and there were also tables outside which we took advantage of, having our pups with us.
Un Mundo Cafe
Located next to CoHatch-The Market is another beautiful historic building, and the site of Un Mundo Cafe, a great option for breakfast and lunch. They offer fair trade coffee and feature lots of food from local vendors. I was excited to see vegetarian and gluten-free options, including vegetarian hot dogs- which can be substituted for any gourmet hotdog on the menu. They so much to offer- breakfast, paninis, hot and cold drinks…and I loved what I had. Open from 7-3 Monday through Friday and 8-1 on Saturday, check it out when you are visiting Springfield, Ohio.
Schulers Bakery
Schuler’s Bakery has been around since 1937, when John Schuler started making delicious sweet treats and would sell them at local grocery stores. It has since passed down to John’s grandson. There are now four locations, all open from Tuesday thru Saturday, 6am-8pm. I went for their donuts, but they sell cookies, cakes, popcorn and more. It is not to be missed!
Guerra’s Krazy Taco
Someone suggested to me eating at Guerra’s Krazy Taco when I was visiting Springfield. Owner Felix Guerra often changes up his unique tex-mex menu, but there are always delicious taco options, which run $2.95 each. There are always daily specials at $3.95. I let them know I’m a vegetarian and gluten-free and they fixed up something special for me. The interior is small, funky and inviting, with a bar that serves up local craft beers and homemade margaritas. Open Wednesday-Sunday from 11-9, I definitely recommend them.
If you are looking for a fun day or weekend trip, I really suggest visiting Springfield. History, art, architecture, outdoor adventures, food and drinks- it has it all! There is so much more I would love to check out my next visit. If you have any other suggestions, please let me know in the comments. If you have a ideas for another road trip, I would love those suggestions too. Thanks for reading my blog, and stay tuned for my next adventure, or in the meantime check out my other posts about road trips from Columbus or fun trips in Ohio, like Mansfield or Marion!
-Catching Katie
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