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Kenton, Ohio: The Ultimate Guide to Fun and Adventure!

May is when Kenton puts on Gene Autry Day in honor of the singing cowboy. September brings the Country Legends Festival and the tribute acts that come with it. November has the Veterans Day Parade, with marching bands and military units filling downtown. Summer is the season for Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve and the rhino tree inside it. Any season at all works for the Hardin County Courthouse, which went up in 1914.

Are you planning a trip to Kenton, Ohio and after fun things to do and places to visit? Kenton covers a fair spread: historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, museums and art, local produce, unique attractions and more.

Getting to know Kenton, Ohio is an adventure on its own. This charming city sits in Hardin County, Ohio, with a population of just over 8,000 people. The history here runs back to the early 1800s, and the historic landmarks include the Hardin County Courthouse, built in 1914 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

History buff, art lover or outdoor enthusiast, Kenton has an answer for each. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and head for Kenton, Ohio.

Key Takeaways

• Kenton, Ohio is a charming city with a rich history dating back to the early 1800s.
• Visitors can explore historical landmarks, museums and art, local produce, and unique attractions.
• Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities in and around Kenton, including hiking, fishing, and boating.

Getting to Know Kenton, Ohio

Welcome to Kenton, Ohio. Where in the world is Kenton, Ohio? Well, it is a small town in the Midwest region of the United States, in Hardin County. The name comes from Simon Kenton, a famous frontiersman who played a significant role in the early history of Kentucky and Ohio.

So what is special about this town? Well, Kenton is a charming town running a spread of fun activities and places to visit. Nature lover, history buff, or someone just after a good time: all three are handled.

The Hardin County Courthouse is one of the top attractions in Kenton. This historic building earns the stop for anyone interested in architecture and history. The courthouse was built in the late 1800s and carries a clock tower that can be seen from miles away. It also holds the Hardin County Heritage Farm, which covers the agricultural history of the area.

For outdoor fun, take the Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve. This nature preserve runs hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and a rhino tree. Yes, a rhino tree. It is worth the walk out to see.

For a taste of Amish culture, head to Hardin County’s Old Order Amish Country. A tour of the Amish community covers their way of life. Handmade crafts and delicious baked goods come home with you.

Kenton, Ohio is a small town packed with fun and interesting things to see and do. Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and come explore it.

Historical Landmarks of Kenton

History buffs do well in Kenton. Historic sites through cemeteries, the range is here. These are the historical landmarks worth your time in Kenton:

Grove Cemetery

Grove Cemetery is a quiet and peaceful final resting place for many Kenton residents. Many veterans lie here too, including those who served in the Civil War. Take a stroll through the cemetery and pay your respects to those who served our country.

Hardin County Courthouse

The Hardin County Courthouse is a serious example of classic architecture. Built in 1914, it is one of the most recognizable buildings in Kenton. Take a tour and learn its history and the cases that have been tried there.

Hardin County Historical Museum

The Hardin County Historical Museum is where Kenton’s history sits. The collection holds Kenton cast iron toys and the histories of the Native Americans and Pioneers. Do not miss the old Kenton Cast Iron Toys factory exhibit, which brought smiles to countless children in the late 1800s.

Jacob Parrott

Jacob Parrott was the first recipient of the Medal of Honor, and he was born in Kenton. His life and service to our country are covered at the Hardin County Historical Museum.

Kenton carries a long history, and these historical landmarks are only part of the town’s past. Take some time to work through these sites and learn what came before.

Museums and Art in Kenton

History buffs and art lovers are covered in Kenton by the museums and art galleries. These are the museums and art galleries in Kenton worth visiting:

Hardin County Historical Museum

The Hardin County Historical Museum earns the visit for anyone interested in Kenton’s history. This museum is well-known throughout Ohio for its Kenton cast iron toys and the histories of the Native Americans and Pioneers. It holds the old Kenton Cast Iron Toys factory, which gave smiles to countless children in the late 1800s. The collection of cast iron toys, memorabilia and other artifacts from the past runs deep. A special section is dedicated to the Sullivan-Johnson Museum, which carries antiques, household items and clothing from the 19th century.

The Amish Heritage Center

The Amish Heritage Center is a unique museum covering the history and lifestyle of the Amish community in Ohio. This museum sits in Hardin County’s Old Order Amish Country and runs exhibits, displays and demonstrations that open up the Amish way of life. Amish clothing, furniture and other household items fill the collection. Amish traditions, beliefs and practices are covered too.

Kenton Artspace

Art lovers should take Kenton Artspace. This art gallery carries works from local artists and hosts various events through the year. Paintings, sculptures and photographs all turn up. The gallery also runs art classes and workshops for anyone wanting to develop their artistic skills.

Kenton Metal Toys Museum

The Kenton Metal Toys Museum is a speciality museum covering the history of metal toys in Kenton. The collection runs from the early 1900s to the mid-1930s. Trains, cars, airplanes and boats fill the cases. Catalogs, advertisements and other memorabilia related to metal toys sit alongside.

Kenton carries a lot for history buffs and art lovers. The Hardin County Historical Museum through Kenton Artspace, the range covers most tastes. Grab your friends and family and give these museums and art galleries a fun-filled day.

Outdoor Adventures in and Around Kenton

Are you an adventure junkie after some outdoor fun? Kenton handles that. Hiking through kayaking, camping through fishing, the outdoor activities here run long.

Nature lovers should head to the Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve. Over 1500 acres of forest sit inside, with hiking trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty. Do not miss the Rhino tree, which is super-neat.

For a harder hike, take Hocking Hills State Park. Caves, waterfalls and miles of hiking trails fill this park, and nature lovers do well in it. Bring camping gear and stay overnight to get the whole of it.

For adrenaline-pumping action, head to Cedar Point Amusement Park. Over 70 rides sit there, including some of the world’s tallest and fastest roller coasters. You will be screaming your lungs out in excitement.

For something more relaxed, go fishing at one of the many lakes and rivers around Kenton. Grab your fishing gear and take the Scioto River or Indian Lake for some quality fishing time.

Water babies should not skip kayaking at Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Over 100 miles of water trails run through scenic valleys and lush forests, quiet the whole way.

Kenton covers the outdoor adventures from most angles. Pack your bags, grab your gear, and go.

A Taste of Kenton’s Local Produce

Anyone who eats well does well in Kenton. The town runs a busy food scene that will work on your taste buds. Fresh produce through baked goods, the ingredients for a delicious meal are all here.

Start with the produce. Kenton is home to several farms growing a long list of fruits and vegetables. Juicy strawberries, crisp lettuce, sweet corn: all of it turns up. And most of the produce is organic.

Fruits and veggies are not the whole of what Kenton is known for. The town also carries some of the stronger baked goods in the state. Flaky croissants through gooey cinnamon rolls, the sweet tooth is handled. For something savory, the local breads and pastries are made with the freshest ingredients.

Flower fans do well here too. Kenton runs several flower farms growing a long list of blooms. A bouquet of roses or a bunch of sunflowers, both are here. And you can pick your own flowers and build your own arrangement.

Then the spices. Kenton is home to several spice shops selling everything from cinnamon to cumin. A specific spice is usually somewhere on the shelves. And the friendly staff will hand you cooking tips if you are unsure what to do with it.

Kenton rewards a food lover. Fresh produce, delicious baked goods, flowers and a long list of spices all sit in one small town. Come to Kenton and take the culinary delights first-hand.

Kenton’s Amish Country

You cannot visit Kenton, Ohio without the charm of Amish Country. Hardin County’s Old Order Amish Country earns the trip for anyone escaping the noise of city life. Rolling hills, picturesque farms and horse-drawn buggies sit on all sides.

The handmade quilts and furniture are what make Amish Country special. The Amish are known for exceptional craftsmanship, and the quilts and furniture show it directly. For a new quilt or a piece of furniture that lasts a lifetime, handmade by the Amish is the answer.

Keep in mind that most Amish businesses are closed on Sundays. The Amish believe in taking a day of rest and spending time with their families. Plan your trip to Amish Country accordingly.

To learn more about the Amish way of life, take a tour of the Old Order Amish Country. The tour covers how the Amish live, work and play. Some of the delicious homemade food the Amish are known for comes with it.

For a simpler way of life and some serious craftsmanship, Amish Country in Kenton, Ohio is the place. Plan your trip around Sunday sales and bring home a handmade quilt or piece of furniture as a souvenir.

The Kenton Cast Iron Toys factory made toys here through the late 1800s. The Kenton Metal Toys Museum holds trains, cars, airplanes and boats from that trade. Jacob Parrott was born in Kenton and was the first recipient of the Medal of Honor. The Hardin County Courthouse was built in 1914 and carries a working clock tower. Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve runs over 1500 acres of forest and hiking trails.

Festivities and Events in Kenton

Kenton is a small town that knows how to throw a party. Fun events and festivities run through the year and keep you entertained. Here are the highlights:

May – Gene Autry Day

Fans of the singing cowboy should not miss Gene Autry Day in Kenton. Held every May, this event celebrates the life and career of the legendary actor and musician. Put on your cowboy boots and head downtown for a day of live music, food and fun.

September – Country Legends Festival

Country music fans should mark the calendar for the Country Legends Festival. This annual event brings together tribute acts to perform the hits of your favorite country stars. Grab a cold beer and a seat in the sun and sing along to classics like “Jolene” and “Your Cheatin’ Heart.”

November – Veterans Day Parade

Kenton takes pride in honoring its veterans, and the annual Veterans Day Parade shows it. Join the crowd lining the streets as marching bands, military units and community organizations pay tribute to those who have served our country. It is a heartwarming event, and a reminder of the sacrifices made by our brave men and women in uniform.

Country music, cowboys or patriotism, Kenton runs an event for each. Keep an eye on the calendar and catch them.

Exploring Kenton’s Surrounding Cities

So you have had your fill of Kenton and want to explore the surrounding areas. Ohio runs some strong cities nearby. Here are the ones to check out:

Columbus

Columbus is the capital city of Ohio. It sits about an hour and a half drive from Kenton and earns the trip. Art fans should take the Columbus Museum of Art. And Thurman’s Cafe has been a Columbus institution since 1942, so the burger is settled.

Cleveland

Cleveland is a longer drive and worth it for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The Cleveland Museum of Art, the West Side Market and the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo all sit there too. And a Cleveland Browns game is on the table if you are feeling adventurous.

Cincinnati

Cincinnati sits a good stretch down the road from Kenton and earns the drive. Take the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. And do not leave Cincinnati without their famous chili.

Toledo

Toledo is not the first city that comes to mind and still earns a visit. The Toledo Museum of Art is the one to take, and the Toledo Zoo ranks among the stronger ones in the country. And the Skyway, a glass-enclosed cable car, carries you across the Maumee River if you are feeling brave.

Dayton

Dayton is a smaller city carrying a lot. Take the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the Dayton Art Institute and the Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. And the Pine Club, a classic steakhouse, has been around since 1947.

Akron

Akron closes the list. It sits about an hour and a half from Kenton and holds the Akron Art Museum, the Akron Zoo and the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, a historic mansion that earns the stop. And beer fans should take the Thirsty Dog Brewing Company.

Sports and Recreation in Kenton

Kenton has no professional sports team and that does not stop the game. A die-hard fan of the Reds or someone who just enjoys a good game of catch will find options for sports and recreation in Kenton.

Baseball fans should head to the local ball fields to catch a game. It is not the Great American Ball Park, and a cold beer and some peanuts still go down while you root for your favorite team.

For something more thrilling, take a trip to Cedar Point. Over 70 rides and 17 roller coasters will get your heart racing. Go easy on the cotton candy before hopping on the Top Thrill Dragster.

For traditionalists, Kenton runs plenty of parks and trails for hiking, biking and fishing. Take a stroll through the Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve, or cast a line at the nearby Hardin Reservoir.

Whatever your idea of fun is, Kenton has a version of it. Grab your gloves, your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, and play ball.

Kenton’s Unique Attractions

Kenton, Ohio is not the first place that comes to mind for unique attractions, and this small town runs a few quiet ones worth checking out.

First, the Pfeiffer Station General Store. This charming store is a blast from the past, with an old-fashioned candy counter, vintage toys and an old-fashioned soda fountain. Try their famous mashed potatoes, which are a local favorite.

Looking for a spot to park? Watch for the handicapped designated parking spot in the town square. It is painted bright pink and carries a giant wheelchair symbol. It is hard to miss.

The town square also holds Fountain Square. This fountain works for a photo op or for sitting still a while. A live performance or event sometimes runs nearby.

For a change of scenery, head to Eden Park. This park holds the Cincinnati Art Museum and long views over the Ohio River. Take a stroll through the gardens or pack a picnic for the lawn.

For a road trip, head to the Short North neighborhood in Columbus. This trendy area holds unique shops, restaurants and galleries. Take a photo with the iconic “Goodale Park” sign while you are there.

For a family-friendly adventure, take the Center of Science and Industry in Columbus. This interactive museum suits kids, and adults who still think like them, with exhibits running from space exploration to the human body.

And no visit to Ohio closes without the Wright Brothers National Museum in Dayton. The history of flight is covered there, and replicas of the Wright Brothers’ famous planes stand inside.

With so many unique attractions in and around Kenton, Ohio, the trip holds up.

Tips for Touring Kenton

Congratulations. You have decided to visit Kenton, Ohio, an overlooked town in the Buckeye State. Seasoned traveler or first-time visitor, a few things are worth knowing before you go.

Embrace the Rural Charm

Kenton is a small town with a big heart. The friendly people, quaint shops and open scenery show up as you walk. Take a deep breath and enjoy the fresh air. The rural charm here is the town’s strongest asset.

Mix It Up

Kenton runs a unique mix of urban and rural experiences. The Hardin County Historical Museum covers the town’s history, and the Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve covers the great outdoors. Mix it up and try a little of everything.

Follow the Itinerary

If you are short on time, follow an itinerary. The Tripadvisor website carries a list of traveler favorites to help you plan. The official Kenton website holds more on the town’s tourist attractions.

Read Reviews

Read reviews before visiting a tourist destination. Reviews of Kenton’s top attractions sit on Tripadvisor and other travel websites. They help you decide which places to visit and which to skip.

Don’t Follow the Crowd

The popular tourist attractions are worth checking out, and so is what sits past them. Kenton runs plenty of quieter spots waiting to be found. Ask locals for recommendations or explore the town on your own.

Stay Safe

Kenton is a safe town, and precautions still travel with you. Keep your valuables secure, stay aware of your surroundings, and follow any safety guidelines posted at tourist attractions.

Kenton, Ohio holds up as a place to visit. Follow these tips, make the most of your trip, and the memories will last.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the most exciting activity in Kenton, Ohio?

That depends on what you are into. Nature lovers should take the hike through Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve. History buffs should take Hardin County’s Old Order Amish Country. And anyone feeling adventurous can try kayaking down the Scioto River.

What’s the best way to spend a day in Kenton, Ohio?

Start the day with a hearty breakfast at one of the local diners, then take a morning hike at Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve. Grab lunch at one of the many restaurants in town, then give the afternoon to the historic downtown area. Close the day with a relaxing dinner at one of the local eateries.

Any hidden gems in Kenton, Ohio that tourists miss?

One spot tourists often miss is the Hardin County Historical Museum. It covers the history of the area and the exhibits on display hold up. Another is the Mary Lou Johnson-Hardin County District Library, which carries a strong collection of books and other resources.

What’s the funniest thing that’s happened to a tourist in Kenton, Ohio?

We cannot speak for all tourists, though we did hear about a guy who tried to ride a cow at one of the local farms. It did not end well for him. Do not try to ride any farm animals, folks.

What’s the most unique attraction in Kenton, Ohio?

That would be the Hardin County Courthouse. It is a serious building with a lot of history behind it and it earns the stop. It is also the only courthouse in the state with a working clock tower.

Any tips for surviving a hot summer day in Kenton, Ohio?

Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and use the air conditioning at the local businesses. And if that fails, head to the local water park for some fun in the sun and water.

Frequently asked questions about Kenton, Ohio

Which Kenton museum holds the cast iron toys?

The Hardin County Historical Museum. It holds the Kenton cast iron toys and the old Kenton Cast Iron Toys factory exhibit, which brought smiles to countless children in the late 1800s. The Kenton Metal Toys Museum is the other one to take instead of that. That collection runs from the early 1900s all the way through to the mid-1930s. The Sullivan-Johnson Museum section covers antiques, household items and clothing from the 19th century.

Which Kenton festival is worth timing a trip around?

Gene Autry Day, held every May. The day celebrates the life and career of the singing cowboy, and the downtown fills up with live music, food and cowboy boots for the whole of it. The Country Legends Festival is the September one to take instead of that. That one brings tribute acts playing the hits of your favorite country stars. The Veterans Day Parade closes the year out in November of each year.

Which trail near Kenton is worth the walk?

The Lawrence Woods State Nature Preserve. The preserve runs over 1500 acres of forest and the hiking trails range from easy through to moderate, with the rhino tree standing somewhere along them. Hocking Hills State Park is the harder one to take instead of that. That park carries caves, waterfalls and miles of its own hiking trails too. Hardin Reservoir handles anyone who would rather cast a line somewhere instead.

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