Mike and I went today. We were surprised to see all that was in there. We hadn't been there in years. We went when the museum was first built and did not think it was worth the cost to get in. We're glad we went in today because there is a lot of information in there. The buildings need a refresh but it's still a good place to visit. There's also some outdoor things you can look at and there are some walking trails. I had no idea those were even there. There's plenty of parking and room for the kids to run. We had a great visit today. We're going to being our grandbabies back.
This is a great museum to showcase Native American history, and the hard work it took for everyone to cultivate peaceful relations so we could all thrive in coexistence. I definitely recommend everyone visit it in the Ohio, and surrounding areas. It's also a great place to connect with the ancestors. They have a cute little shop inside filled with many great local items and of course tons of great rocks to choose from, if you're into that kind of thing like me.
It was a nice nature presentation area. We didn't get there until late...just a bit before closing. But we weren't turned away.
I'm not going to say anything negative about it....some of the historical items were missing or not on display for some reason. I'm sure they have their reasons why they weren't.
Overall I would go back with a bit more time to read and take in all the history knowledge that they have to offer.
The museum is much more than I expected and is well organized and provides a great overview of the history of this area. The earth mounds are amazing but would be hard to see when there is foliage on the plants. There is a great view of the Little Miami valley at the site. I have to wonder what drove these people to create these extensive mounds in the first place. We spent a little over 2 hours there and barely scratched the surface of this site.
During my late November visit, Ticks were still present. Please plan accordingly, and check yourself and family when returning home!
Fort Ancient, aptly misnamed by early pioneers is an amazing feat of human engineering by ancient man, and one of the few remaining sites with preserved Native Indigenous earthworks in Ohio. Visitors will be glad to find dedicated handicapped parking and access close to the entrance of the museum. Additional parking is a short walk away on level ground. Sidewalks provide for safe entry to and from both areas.
The Fort Ancient museum educates visitors about the importance of this Native site, and also other cultures who lived before, during, and after the former inhabitants. It also includes a vast display of ancient and historical artifacts and replicas tracing the impact of man's influence. There is a detailed explanation of the cause and effect of immigrating pioneer settlements in the Northwestern Territories and beyond.
Visitors may be pleased to discover books, and Native Distributed Foods like Fry Bread, Wild Rice, or Teas as well as rocks and other wares in the Gift Shop. Payment in the forms of debit, credit, and federal currency are all accepted. My single adult entry fee was a very reasonable $7.00.
Outside are hiking trails with signs and maps to help observe burial mounds, and sizable man made ridges of earth that total over 3.5 miles in length. A road leads to the back of this dedicated site providing great views. Additional signs list the significance of designated areas. Many burial mounds are placed on the landscape, and paths lead along towering Deciduous, and Nut Bearing Trees. At the top of an area named Eagle's Trail is an overlook with stone and wooden steps allowing a view overlooking the river valley. One trail leads all the way down to the river with the placement of steps, but is very steep in places and poses several areas where a walking sticks or other device are recommended to help one maintain their balance. Over the calf hiking boots with good tread should help keep ones footing.
Across the road is an area designed to help the Native People calculate days of the year as well as to those leading to the Summer Solstice, Harvest, and the changing seasons. Through a section of road or by walking a trail one can visit the area of the Twin Mounds and walk a path through some tall Conifers. Trails are well maintained overall. Walking on any of the ridges or Native Made structures is strictly prohibited in an effort to help preserve them.
Kids and families will enjoy their time here, and it's a great place for a group walk or picnic. One area of the park has a large structure to provide shade and offer respite from the sun or weather. And there are pastures and places where kids young and old can throw or pass football, fly a frisbee, or play outdoor games. Several areas offer roadside as well as lot parking to allow easy access to points of interest.
The road leading across the river valley past the former Morgan's Canoe Rental is incredibly steep. Plan in advance to encounter multiple tight, winding hair-pin curves and a very, very steep decline. The posted recommended speed is no more than 15 MPH with good reason. Please make consideration if the road is wet, or ice or snow could form. A lower gear and speed with good tread should help to better maintain the safest driving conditions.
Upon arrival most of the area of Fort Ancient is relatively flat and very easy to walk or drive. Please confirm with the website whether or not Pets are permitted here. If so, follow any laws pertaining to the Leash Law enforced and imposed State-wide in Ohio. Enjoy your visit!
The trails could be a little better marked along the path, but the entrances to the trails are very well marked.
Museum staff is very friendly.
Every time I visit, I feel as though I am walking with the ghosts of the peoples who built the earthworks . This is a special combination of history preserve and nature preserve plus museum. Free if you are a History Connection member. Only $8 per car load if you only want to walk the grounds. In late September and early October, there is much white snakeroot, goldenrods, and asters in bloom. All times of year, there are impressively large oaks, maples, beeches, and tulip trees to enjoy. An impressive CCC built shelter in site. The museum charges a modest fee per person.
Great displays explaining the early history of Ohio. We will be back to walk the trails.
The picnic tables are shaded a nice spot to have a snack or lunch before traveling home.