May 12, 2023

Whether you’re passing through or looking for a new experience in town, we’ve got you covered. Check out these local attractions you can drive to from Heath, Oh.

An arboretum.

1. Newark Earthworks & Great Circle Museum

Behold the beauty of the geometric earthworks preserved at 455 Hebron Rd, where you will learn about 3 ancient patterns and how they are connected to Native American history. The National Historic Landmark is regarded as a sacred site due to its importance to the Native American culture, which you will learn about as you walk along the paved path and through the museum.

The architectural wonder acted in many facets between A.D. 1 and A.D. 400, including a cathedral, an astronomical observatory, and a cemetery. It is comprised of 3 major landmarks: the Great Circle Earthworks, the Octagon Earthworks, and the Wright Earthworks. After viewing the ancient enclosures, step into the museum to learn more.

2. National Heisey Glass Museum

The impressive glass collection housed at 169 W Church Street celebrates the works of A.H. Heisey & Company. Whether you’re a member of the dedicated Heisey Collectors of America or simply appreciate breathtaking glass art and glassware, this museum won’t disappoint. Inside you will find Heisey vases, glasses, plates, glass molds, cordials, animals, and much more.

3. Blackhand Gorge State Nature Park

Grab the family and park your 2023 Toyota Tundra Platinum at 2200 Gratiot Rd SE. The 775-acre nature preserve is an incredible sight to behold, featuring a narrow gorge cut by the Licking River, leaving behind the breathtaking Blackhand sandstone formation. The natural sandstone formation was named after a dark hand-shaped petroglyph engraved on the face of the sandstone cliff.

Bring your mountain bikes and plenty of water to explore the 4-mile bike trail that traverses the preserve. Hiking through the preserve will take you on a scenic route with beautiful trees like oak-hickory, Virginia pines, Eastern Hemlock, and cherry birch.

4. The Dawes Arboretum

Five miles up the road in Newark, the arboretum at 7770 Jacksontown Rd boasts nearly 2,000 acres with more than 15,400 different types of plants and flora. The smattering of trees includes some native to central Ohio and some sourced from around the world, including sugar maples and other hardy trees.

Download a map or choose from three audio tours through various sections of the arboretum. Relax in the tranquil Japanese Garden, hike through miles of magnificent landscape, or witness the stunning view from the Observation Tower.

5. The Licking County Historic Jail

Also in the neighboring town of Newark, the historic building sitting at 46 S 3rd Street used to be a jail. Now it’s believed to be haunted! If you’re brave enough, sign up for a spooky tour through its old hallways.

When you’ve found your zen at the arboretum or caught a ghost on camera, swing by Coughlin Toyota to see what’s new!

Image via pixabay.com.