Ohio is full of surprising and one-of-a-kind places to visit. Take, for example, the World’s Largest Basket in Newark. This isn’t your average building; it’s shaped like a gigantic picnic basket, showing off a creative twist on architecture.
Then there’s the Ohio State Reformatory, an old prison known for its ghost stories, where you can explore and imagine the history within its walls.
Ohio also has the Serpent Mound, a mysterious snake-shaped earthwork left by ancient people, which gets you thinking about who they were and why they built it.
Over in Cincinnati, the American Sign Museum lights up the scene with its bright and colorful neon signs – it’s like a walk through the glowing history of advertising.
If you’re into food, you’ll love Jungle Jim’s International Market. It’s not just a grocery store; it’s an adventure around the world’s cuisines, all under one roof.
These attractions make Ohio an eclectic mix for anyone looking to step off the beaten path and experience something different.
The World’s Largest Basket
In Newark, Ohio, you can’t miss the huge basket that catches everyone’s eye. This giant basket isn’t just for show; it’s a nod to the Longaberger Company’s history of basket-making. They paid attention to every little detail when they built this seven-story, 180,000-square-foot building to look just like their famous maple wood baskets.
It used to be where the company ran its business. Now, it stands as a bold example of the drive to create something unique and the willingness to think outside the box. When you’re in Ohio and you’re checking out cool places, the World’s Largest Basket is one you’ll definitely remember.
It ties together the local traditions of skilled craft, the story of how baskets are made in the U.S., and a fun, out-of-the-ordinary design.
Haunted Ohio State Reformatory
The Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio, is famous for its chilling atmosphere and ghost stories. Unlike the cheerful giant basket in Newark, this old prison is a place that draws people in with its spooky reputation. The building’s gothic design and empty prison cells make visitors feel like they’ve stepped into a haunted world.
People who love a good scare and those interested in history will find the reformatory’s dark past intriguing. Stories of prisoner riots, tough living conditions, and sudden deaths are part of its history. When you go on a guided tour, you can really feel what it was like for the prisoners who lived there. The Ohio State Reformatory is an important piece of Ohio’s history, connecting the world we see every day to the world of ghosts.
When visiting, you might want to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking through history and eerie passageways. For those who are brave enough, the reformatory also offers night tours and even paranormal investigation events where you can search for ghosts yourself. Remember, the Ohio State Reformatory isn’t just a spooky place; it’s a place where you can learn about the past and see how it shapes our understanding of history.
Serpent Mound’s Ancient Mystery
The Serpent Mound in Adams County, Ohio, is a fascinating piece of ancient history. It’s a huge earthwork in the shape of a snake and is over 1,300 feet long. It’s a key piece of evidence about the advanced cultures that lived in North America long ago. Historians think that the Adena culture built it around 321 BCE. However, there’s also some proof that another group, the Fort Ancient people, may have changed its shape around 1070 CE.
The way Serpent Mound lines up with the sun’s position during the solstices and equinoxes shows that its creators had a deep knowledge of the stars and seasons. We’re not entirely sure why they built it—maybe for religious reasons, as part of their ceremonies, or perhaps for both reasons. Whatever the case, it’s still a mystery that draws the curiosity of researchers and visitors alike.
When you visit Serpent Mound, you’re stepping right into a piece of ancient history, and you can’t help but wonder about the lives and beliefs of the people who made it so long ago.
American Sign Museum Wonders
At the American Sign Museum in Cincinnati, you can see the story of how signs in the U.S. have changed over time. They have a big collection of bright neon and electric signs. When you walk through, it feels like you’re traveling back in time. You’ll see the fancy glass signs from the early 1900s and the big, bright neon signs that used to light up American cities in the 1950s. Each sign has its own tale, maybe about the era it’s from, the shop it advertised, or even big changes in society.
The museum doesn’t just show off these cool, old signs; it also teaches people about the skills and creativity that went into making them. This place is special because it brings together letters, business, and fond memories. It gives you a glimpse of the commercial background that helped create what America looks like today.
If you’re interested in history or art, or if you just love to see things that glow and sparkle, this museum is worth a visit. It’s not only a walk down memory lane but also a lesson in the art of signs that you won’t get anywhere else.
Jungle Jim’s International Adventure
After visiting the American Sign Museum and its rich history, you’ll find a unique experience at Jungle Jim’s International Market in Fairfield, Ohio.
This isn’t just another grocery store; it’s a place where shopping is an exciting journey through the world’s flavors.
As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by a life-sized giraffe, setting the stage for the fun ahead.
Each section of the store is carefully designed to showcase different cultures’ foods, like a colorful celebration of tastes in the Mexican aisle.
With food from over 70 countries, Jungle Jim’s ensures that every trip is more than just shopping—it’s a chance to explore and be inspired by the wide array of culinary delights from all over the world.
Conclusion
Ohio is a treasure trove of unusual and interesting places perfect for anyone looking to explore. You can marvel at the World’s Largest Basket Building, a true architectural wonder that reflects Ohio’s quirky side.
History buffs will appreciate the Ohio State Reformatory, a spooky old prison known for its ghost stories.
Then there’s Serpent Mound, an incredible ancient earthwork that offers a glimpse into Ohio’s prehistoric past.
For a burst of color and creativity, the American Sign Museum is a lively celebration of the art of signage.
And if you love exploring foods from around the world, Jungle Jim’s International Market is a massive grocery store where you can find just about anything you’re craving.
Each of these places gives you a taste of Ohio’s diverse culture and history in their own special way.
