10 Fun Things To Do Near Springfield, Ohio (Clark County)
Planning a trip to
Springfield, Ohio and wondering what to do? You’re in luck. This small city in
Clark County is packed with history, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly attractions—all within a short drive.
Whether you’re passing through on I‑70 or planning a weekend getaway from Columbus or Dayton, here are
10 things to do in and around Springfield, Ohio that are worth your time.
1. Step Back in Time at the Heritage Center Museum
Right in downtown Springfield, the
Heritage Center Museum is a great first stop. Housed in a beautiful old building, it tells the story of Springfield and Clark County—from pioneer days to the city’s big industrial boom.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Local history exhibits
- Stories of inventors and manufacturing in the area
- Rotating displays about everyday life in Springfield
It’s the kind of place where you walk in “just for a few minutes” and end up staying an hour. If you like to understand a town before you explore it, this museum gives you that background in an easy, relaxed way.
2. Explore the Stunning Frank Lloyd Wright–Designed Westcott House
If you enjoy architecture, the
Westcott House is a must-see in Springfield, Ohio. This is a fully restored
Frank Lloyd Wright Prairie-style home, and it looks like something straight out of a design magazine.
Guided tours walk you through:
- The history of the Westcott family
- Wright’s design choices and unique details
- How the house was saved and restored
Even if you’re not usually into architecture, it’s fascinating to see how modern this 1908 home feels. Picture long, low lines, built‑in furniture, and big windows pulling in natural light.
Tip:
Book your tour ahead of time, especially on weekends. Tours can fill up fast, and you don’t want to miss this one.
3. Get Outside at Buck Creek State Park
If you’re looking for outdoor things to do near Springfield, Ohio,
Buck Creek State Park is hard to beat. It’s just northeast of town and offers a mix of water and woods that’s perfect for a laid‑back day.
You can:
- Swim at the beach on Clarence J. Brown Reservoir
- Rent a kayak, canoe, or boat
- Hike or bike the trails
- Camp in the state park campground
On a summer afternoon, the lake feels like a mini vacation spot. Families spread out on the sand, kids splash near the shore, and boats cruise by in the distance. If you’re traveling with kids, pack towels and snacks and make it a beach day.
4. Walk, Bike, or Roll the Little Miami Scenic Trail
Love biking or long walks? The
Little Miami Scenic Trail runs right through Clark County and near Springfield. It’s one of the longest paved trails in the country, and it’s perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Why people love it:
- It’s flat and paved—easy for bikes, strollers, and wheelchairs.
- You ride through pretty countryside, small towns, and over old railroad bridges.
- You can choose a short ride or go for miles.
Bring your bike, or look for rentals nearby in larger trail towns. If you’re visiting from a bigger city, you may be surprised how peaceful it feels to ride for miles without dealing with cars or traffic lights.
5. Stroll Through Hartman Rock Garden
The
Hartman Rock Garden is one of those quirky, only‑in‑Ohio attractions that you don’t forget.
In the 1930s and 40s, a Springfield resident named Ben Hartman filled his yard with tiny buildings, patriotic scenes, and miniature villages—all made from stone, glass, and found objects. Today, you can walk right through the yard and see:
- Small castles and churches made from rocks and concrete
- Figurines and colorful glass pieces
- Creative scenes built into the landscaping
It’s free to visit (donations are welcome), and it doesn’t take long, so it’s an easy add‑on to your Springfield itinerary. If you enjoy folk art, photography, or just weird and wonderful places, this belongs on your list.
6. Relax and Recharge at Snyder Park & the Snyder Park Gardens
Looking for a calm spot to relax in Springfield, Ohio? Head to
Snyder Park and the nearby
Snyder Park Gardens and Arboretum.
You’ll find:
- Open green spaces for picnics and frisbee
- Walking paths and shade trees
- Lovely garden areas with seasonal flowers
On a sunny day, grab a coffee in town, then come here to unwind. If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll have plenty of room to run. If you like photography or just a quiet stroll, the gardens are a peaceful escape that feels far from the city, even though you’re only a few minutes from downtown.
7. Experience Cars and Culture at the Summer National Road Festival & Classic Car Shows
Springfield has strong ties to travel and transportation, thanks to the historic
National Road that runs through the area. Depending on when you visit, you might catch one of the region’s classic car shows or events.
In and around Springfield and Clark County, look out for:
- Classic car cruise‑ins on warm evenings
- National Road–themed festivals
- Seasonal events and parades featuring vintage vehicles
If you’re a car lover, time your visit around late spring or summer. Even if you just stumble on a show by chance, it’s fun to wander the rows of shiny old cars, chat with owners, and soak up that small‑town community feel.
8. Discover Local Flavor in Downtown Springfield
Downtown Springfield has been getting a fresh burst of energy in recent years. If you’re into local food, coffee, and craft beer, plan to spend time here.
You can:
- Grab a meal at locally owned restaurants
- Try Ohio craft beer at area breweries or taprooms
- Browse small shops and boutiques
- Catch live music or seasonal events on the square
In the evening, downtown Springfield feels cozy and walkable. It’s the perfect place to end a busy day of exploring Clark County—good food, friendly faces, and easy parking. If you like to “travel by taste,” this is where you start.
9. Visit the Clark County Fairgrounds & Seasonal Events
If you happen to be in Springfield, Ohio during
fair season, the
Clark County Fairgrounds is the place to be. The Clark County Fair is usually held in the summer and has everything you’d expect from a classic American fair:
- Rides and games
- Livestock shows
- Fried food and sweet treats
- Live entertainment and demolition derbies
The fairgrounds also host flea markets, trade shows, and other events throughout the year. It’s worth checking the calendar before your trip—you might discover a fun surprise like a craft show, antique market, or car swap meet while you’re in town.
10. Take a Short Drive to Yellow Springs & Clifton Gorge
One of the best things about visiting Springfield is how close you are to other cool spots in southwest Ohio. Just a short drive away in neighboring Greene and Clark counties, you’ll find:
- Yellow Springs – A colorful, artsy small town with unique shops, street art, and cafes.
- Glen Helen Nature Preserve – Miles of trails, creeks, and the namesake “yellow spring.”
- Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve – Dramatic rocky cliffs and a beautiful rushing creek.
- Historic Clifton Mill – A picture‑perfect old mill with a restaurant and famous holiday light display in winter.
These places are an easy half‑day or full‑day trip from Springfield. If you love hiking, photography, or charming small towns, this little loop is well worth the extra miles.
Planning Your Trip to Springfield, Ohio
To make the most of your visit to
Springfield and Clark County:
- Check opening hours for the Westcott House, museums, and gardens before you go.
- Look at the events calendar for the Clark County Fairgrounds and downtown Springfield.
- Pack comfortable shoes for walking, plus swimwear if you’re heading to Buck Creek State Park.
Springfield, Ohio is one of those places that feels familiar and surprising at the same time. You get classic Midwest friendliness, but also unique attractions like Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, folk art gardens, and miles of scenic trails.
What Would You Add to This Springfield, Ohio List?
Have you spent time in
Springfield, Ohio or elsewhere in
Clark County?
- Did you find a great coffee shop downtown?
- Have a favorite hiking trail at Buck Creek or on the Little Miami Scenic Trail?
- Know a hidden gem that visitors shouldn’t miss?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments! Your ideas can help other travelers plan their own trip to Springfield and find even more fun things to do nearby.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a road trip through Ohio. The more people discover places like Springfield, the more these small cities and towns can thrive.
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