For those in Columbus looking for a fantastic weekend escape, Mansfield, Ohio is the perfect destination for outdoor adventures, fascinating history, and great local dining. Within an hour’s drive north, this charming city and its surrounding areas offer something for every traveler. Hike through beautiful forests, tour a famous haunted prison, or enjoy a meal inside a real train car diner.
This itinerary covers the best things to do in Mansfield, plus additional attractions and dining spots to make your trip even more memorable.
Mohican State Park: Hiking, Camping & Outdoor Adventures
Kick off your weekend with a visit to Mohican State Park, one of Ohio’s premier outdoor destinations. Located about 20 minutes from Mansfield, Mohican State Park is a perfect place for serenity. Surrounded by the Mohican State Forest, the park features a scenic valley, river, dense woods, and the tranquil Pleasant Hill Lake. It’s an ideal spot for hiking, mountain biking, camping, and water activities, drawing visitors with its scenic beauty and outdoor opportunities.
The park is open daily from dawn to dusk, with no admission fee. There are several trails whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a leisurely nature walk. Popular trails include:
Gorge Overlook Trail, 1.4 mile loop with stunning overlooks.
Lyons Falls Trail, 2 mile, scenic hike with two beautiful waterfalls, Big Lyons and Little Lyons Falls.
Hemlock Gorge Trail, 2.4 miles, hiking near the river, leads to the Swinging Bridge and Historic Covered Bridge.
If you’re up for more adventure, the nearby Mohican Adventures provides canoes, tubs, and kayaks as well as an aerial park and a fun center.
Best Lodging Options at Mohican State Park
For those who want to stay overnight, options range from rustic campsites to unique treehouse stays.
- Mohican State Park Lodge: Nestled within the park, this full-service lodge provides comfortable rooms, an indoor and outdoor pool, and a restaurant with scenic forest views. It’s a great option for those who want to be close to nature while enjoying modern amenities like Wi-Fi and a cozy fireplace lounge.
- Mohican Campground: The official campground at Mohican State Park offers both electric and non-electric sites for tents and RVs, making it a great choice for campers who enjoy a traditional outdoor experience. The campground also features heated showers, picnic areas, and easy access to hiking trails and the Mohican River.
- Landoll’s Mohican Castle: A magical castle retreat offering uniquely designed suites, fine dining, and picturesque surroundings. The castle’s elegant architecture and secluded location make it perfect for romantic getaways and special occasions.
- Treehouse Cabins at The Mohicans: For a one-of-a-kind overnight stay, The Mohicans offer luxury treehouses and rustic cabins tucked away in the forest. These beautifully designed treehouses are ideal for couples, families, or anyone looking for a peaceful time. Some even feature spiral staircases, private balconies, and floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking views.
Ohio State Reformatory: Tour One of America’s Most Haunted Prisons
A visit to Mansfield wouldn’t be complete without touring the Ohio State Reformatory. This historic prison, built in 1886, is famous for its Gothic architecture, eerie atmosphere, and its role in The Shawshank Redemption. It operated until 1990, but today it stands as one of the most well-preserved historic prisons in the U.S. and attracts many people with its intriguing story.
The reformatory gained fame as the primary filming location for The Shawshank Redemption (1994). During their visit, visitors can see many recognizable movie locations, including the warden’s office, cell blocks, and Brooks’ house.
Visitors can explore through self-guided tours, which take about 90 minutes. Audio guides can be included for an extra $5 per person. The reformatory also offers various tours like “Hollywood Meets History”, “Beyond the Bars”, and “Shawshank Bus Tour” for deeper insights into its legacy.
Operating hours are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The ticket price for the self-guided tour is $30 for adults and $25 for seniors, students, and military personnel; children under 6 enter free. Special events, like ghost hunts, and other tours have different hours and pricing, so check the official website for updates. This is one of the best stops that blends Mansfield’s past with its cinematic present.
Kingwood Center Gardens: Explore Historic Mansion & Stunning Gardens
After the eerie atmosphere of the reformatory, unwind at the stunning Kingwood Center Gardens, one of Mansfield’s most beautiful and historic landmarks.
The estate was originally the home of Charles Kelley King, an industrialist and former president of the Ohio Brass Company, who lived here until his passing in 1952. After his death, the estate was transformed into a public garden and cultural center, per his wishes. Today, Kingwood Hall is open for visitors to explore, offering a fascinating look at the luxurious lifestyle of a wealthy industrialist.
Kingwood Center has beautiful themed gardens and peaceful walking trails. Stroll through the Rose, Herb, Terrace, Woodland, and Mr. King’s Formal Gardens for seasonal floral displays and to enjoy the views. Families and children can explore nature at the Peacock Playhouse and walk through the Storybook Trail. Visitors can spot the resident peacocks roaming the grounds and browse exotic plants in the greenhouse. Kingwood Center also hosts gardening workshops, floral arrangement classes, and holiday events. The Garden Gateway visitor center enhances the experience with a café and gift shop.
The gardens are open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended hours until 7 p.m. from April to October. Admission is $10 per person, free for children under 6, and includes access to the gardens and hall.
Travel tip: Admission is free for everyone on the first Monday of each month.
Where to Eat in Mansfield
No getaway is complete without great food! Here are some local favorites:
1285 Winery / The Blueberry Patch – Ohio’s largest blueberry farm, known for seasonal berry picking, has a coffee bar serving fresh blueberry donuts, and roasted coffee. 1285 Winery inside the farm offers delicious wood-fired pizzas, local wines, and live music in a rustic setting, making it a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Buckeye Bakery – Famous for its handmade donuts, pastries, and cookies, this bakery has been a local favorite for decades. To try their delicious donuts, you should go there early.
Hudson & Essex – A high-end dining spot offering steaks, seafood, and a curated wine bar. The modern yet elegant ambiance makes it a great choice for a romantic dinner or a special occasion.
Mansfield Family Restaurant – A local favorite for homestyle comfort food, serving hearty breakfasts, homemade specials and soups, and delicious Amish pies in a welcoming atmosphere.
Uncle John’s Place – A cozy, friendly tavern famous for its cheesesteak burgers, Reuben sandwiches, and an impressive beer selection.
Coney Island Diner – A classic 1930s-style diner in downtown Mansfield, known for its famous Coney dogs, chili fries, and milkshakes. The old-school booths, vintage décor, and counter service give it a nostalgic charm.
Buckeye Express Diner – This train-themed restaurant, housed inside a real red caboose, is a must-visit for families and burger lovers. It’s famous for its massive Buckeye Burger, loaded with toppings, and its fun, nostalgic setting. The diner is just off I-71, making it a convenient and unique stop for travelers.
Bonus Attractions: More to See in Mansfield, Ohio
If you have extra time, consider adding these local gems to your itinerary:
- Richland Carrousel Park: Located in downtown Mansfield, this beautifully restored handcrafted carousel is a nostalgic treat for visitors of all ages. The carousel features 52 hand-painted animals, including horses, rabbits, ostriches, and cats. The park operates Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with rides costing just $1 each or six for $5. It’s an affordable, year-round stop with a gift shop and picnic area, perfect for a quick visit.
- Malabar Farm State Park: About 15 minutes from Mansfield in Lucas, this 900-acre estate was once home to Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louis Bromfield. Known for its sustainable farming legacy, it offers hiking trails, farm tours, and the historic Big House. The park is open daily from dawn to dusk with no admission fee, though guided tours are available for the farm and the Big House at an extra cost.
- Buckeye Imagination Museum: If you’re traveling with kids, Buckeye Imagination Museum is for you. This hands-on, interactive museum is designed to spark creativity and curiosity in young minds through play-based exhibits. Kids can step into a miniature town, where they can shop at a grocery store, and become firefighters, or doctors at the children’s hospital. The admission fee is $16 per person, children under 2 enter free.
With its mix of outdoor beauty, historic sites, and unique dining, Mansfield is a fantastic weekend escape from Columbus. Pack your bags and discover why this Ohio gem is worth the trip!