Hocking Hills Beckons Families to More Than Trails with Local Stays, Quirky Stops and Niche Adventures

LOGAN, Ohio — Hocking Hills is best known for its picturesque trails and waterfalls, but there’s so much more for families to explore beyond the beaten path. From unique lodging and quirky museums to delicious local eats and evening stargazing, the area offers something unforgettable for every kind of adventurer.

Staying at the Worthington of Logan made our trip comfortable and convenient. This small, independent hotel located in historic downtown Logan, Ohio, features 36 spacious rooms, a free continental breakfast, and an indoor pool; perfect for winding down after a day of hiking and exploring.

While the Rock House and Old Man’s Cave trails offered breathtaking scenery, the Butterfly Trail stood out for its family-friendly focus. This self-guided, educational trail includes 14 stops with large butterfly wings for memorable photo ops and informative plaques about each butterfly species. The trail begins at the Hocking Hills Welcome Center, where kids can pick up a passport and a coloring book to accompany the journey.

The Welcome Center is also home to the quirky Pencil Sharpener Museum. With hundreds of sharpeners on display, it’s a free and fun stop that sparks curiosity and laughter. Another unexpected gem is the Columbus Washboard Factory—the last one in North America still making washboards.

Local food was another highlight. Chef Moe’s on Main serves homemade meals at affordable prices, and it’s run by Moe, whose inspiring story adds heart to every dish. The Ridge Inn impressed with its friendly staff and standout weekend donuts. At The Rock House, generous portions made every meal easily shareable and full of flavor.

For a break from the heat or rain, the Hocking Hills Children’s Museum offers an imaginative space for kids 10 and under. With areas for pretend play, a water table, and digging zones, it’s a great indoor retreat.

Older kids and teens craving more adventure can head to High Rock Adventures for guided rock climbing, rappelling, and eco-tours on private land, complete with all necessary gear and instruction. They also offer a rock shop and an on-site escape room. Nearby, Hocking Hills Canopy Tours features multiple zipline experiences, including a kid-friendly course and the thrilling “superzip,” where riders soar in a Superman-style position.

In the evenings, John Glenn Astronomy Park offers free star-gazing programs with telescopes and expert guidance; just be sure to reserve a parking pass online. For a truly unique night-time experience, Butterfly Ridge hosts moth lighting events where families can see rare moths up close under special lighting setups.

Hocking Hills goes far beyond scenic trails. With so many interactive, educational, and thrilling activities, it’s a place where families can make lasting memories every day of their visit.

-----------

At Cleveland 13 News, we strive to provide accurate, up‑to‑date, and reliable reporting. If you spot an error, omission, or have information that may need updating, please email us at tips@cleveland13news.com. As a community‑driven news network, we appreciate the help of our readers in ensuring the integrity of our reporting.