Heritage, Culture, and The Arts
Rooted in History. Alive with Culture. Inspired by the Arts.
Heritage Runs Deep. Creativity Runs Wild.
Southeast Ohio is a region shaped by deep roots and bold creativity — where centuries of history, diverse cultural traditions, and thriving artistic expression come together to form something truly special. From ancient Indigenous earthworks to storied river towns, the echoes of the past are ever-present, inspiring a new generation of makers, musicians, and storytellers. Explore world-class museums, vibrant local galleries, and historic theaters — or immerse yourself in the region’s time-honored festivals and cultural celebrations. Whether you’re captivated by the past or energized by modern creativity, Southeast Ohio offers an experience that is as rich and diverse as the landscape itself.
Where History Inspires, Culture Thrives.
First
Settlement in the Northwest Territory
2 out of 3
Ohio State Capitals: Chillicothe & Zanesville
1,000+
Documented Ancient Earthworks
100+
Annual Festivals and Events
200+
Public Art Installations
300+
Miles of Historic Canals and Locks
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“No colony in America was ever settled under such favorable auspices as that which has just commenced at the Muskingum. If I was a young man, just preparing to begin the world, or if advanced in life and had a family to make provision for, I know of no country where I should rather fix my habitation.”
George Washington, 1788, of the Ohio River Valley
Historic Landmarks & Architecture
Southeast Ohio is a living museum of American history, where landmarks and architecture tell the story of the region’s earliest settlers, industrial boom, and cultural evolution. Stroll through charming downtowns lined with Victorian storefronts, or step inside preserved 19th-century courthouses, opera houses, and river locks. Explore the Mound Cemetery in Marietta, home to one of the oldest and largest Adena burial mounds in the country, or visit the John and Annie Glenn Museum in Muskingum County, which honors the legacy of the famous astronaut and his wife. Many towns throughout the region have earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, offering visitors a firsthand glimpse into the region’s deep and storied past.
Appalachian Arts & Culture
Artistic expression thrives in Southeast Ohio, where the region’s Appalachian heritage has inspired generations of creators. Local artisans produce handcrafted pottery, textiles, woodwork, and jewelry that reflect the spirit of the region — and you’ll find their work showcased in boutiques, artisan co-ops, and weekend markets. The area is also known for its lively music and theater scene, where Appalachian folk music, bluegrass, and contemporary performances bring communities together. Annual events like the Nelsonville Music Festival celebrate both traditional and modern art forms, while public murals and art walks bring color and storytelling to the streets. Visitors are invited to experience the unique intersection of heritage and creativity that makes the arts in Southeast Ohio truly one of a kind.
Performing Arts & Entertainment
From intimate community theaters to historic opera houses, Southeast Ohio has long been a hub for live entertainment and performing arts. The region’s cultural calendar is filled with events like the Tecumseh! Outdoor Drama in Chillicothe — a nationally recognized production that tells the story of the legendary Shawnee leader. Across the region, community theaters, symphonies, and music festivals provide year-round entertainment, showcasing everything from Appalachian bluegrass to contemporary theater productions. In warmer months, towns come alive with open-air concerts, street performances, and arts festivals, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the region’s creative heartbeat. Whether you’re catching a live show at the historic Twin City Opera House in McConneslville or listening to local musicians perform in the Coshocton Art Park, the performing arts in Southeast Ohio are a testament to the region’s passion for storytelling and creative expression.
Ancient Heritage & Indigenous Roots
Long before European settlers arrived, Southeast Ohio was home to advanced Indigenous civilizations, including the Adena and Hopewell cultures. These ancient peoples left behind impressive ceremonial earthworks, burial mounds, and archaeological sites that continue to inspire awe today. In Marietta, the Sacra Via Park and Mound Cemetery preserve monumental mounds built by the Hopewell people more than 2,000 years ago. Other significant sites, like the Serpent Mound State Memorial and the Great Circle Earthworks, reveal the region’s complex and sophisticated ancient history. These earthworks stand as a testament to the ingenuity and cultural significance of Southeast Ohio’s earliest inhabitants. Visitors are invited to walk the grounds, reflect on the region’s ancient past, and learn more about the deep roots of this land.
