Morgan County is located in the beautiful Southeastern Ohio countryside. If you're looking for a getaway to disconnect from the busy world, this is the perfect place to stop and take a breath of fresh air. You'll find small-town charm, locally owned eateries, beautiful landscapes, and the coziest places to stay and wake up refreshed. My husband and I visited 3 areas in Morgan County- McConnelsville, Stockport, and Chesterhill. Here's a list of some amazing things you'll find in each area!
I would like to thank Ohio. Find it Here. and the Morgan County CVB for sponsoring this trip. As always, opinions are my own!
McConnelsville
The Morgan County Historical Society and Museum
142 East Main Street, McConnelsville, Morgan County, Ohio, 43756
This museum houses an incredible collection of Morgan County history. I loved looking at old photos and seeing how the area evolved over time. Some of my favorite items here were the memorabilia of the world-famous magician, MacDonald Birch. He grew up in McConnelsville and performed at the local Twin City Opera House for friends and family when he wasn't traveling around the world. You'll also find works from the famous American Artist and Illustrator Howard Chandler Christy who was born in Morgan County.
I was surprised to learn that this was the main museum and there are 7 other exhibits around Morgan County! One of them includes The Button House, which is next door. The house was built in 1836, it was home to Evelyn True Button- a woman who lived an extraordinary life. She was a teacher, principal, mother, women's rights advocate, and world traveler. The furnishings throughout the house are from the 1830s to1890s.
The Morgan County Historical Society and Museum is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. They also offer tours during the week by appointment. Call 740-962-4785 or send an email to morgancountyhistorysociety@gmail.com. Check their Facebook page for more information.
Meyers Specialty Market
83 E Main St,
McConnelsville, OH 43756
This specialty market is so impressive! It's a grocery, deli, and bakery. The grocery has a wide selection of bulk items and health foods. Visit the deli and grab a freshly made salad or sandwich for lunch. Stop in on a Friday and treat yourself to a freshly baked maple-glazed cinnamon roll made from scratch (you can also buy these frozen throughout the week)!
Morris Hardware
50 E Main StMcConnelsville, OH 43756
It's not every day you can stand inside a store owned by the same family for over 175 years. Morris Hardware opened in 1845 and holds the title of the longest family-owned and operated store in Ohio! Even though they have remodeled and changed things up over the years, you can still find nostalgia in the pressed tin ceilings and a painting of the original owner, George Morris.
Town Square Collectibles
32 E Main St
McConnelsville, OH 43756
This store was so much fun to shop in! I couldn't stop smelling the candles and soaps. It also has primitive gifts and home decor made by 20+ local artists. I was so happy to find the perfect pieces to add to my fall home decor. This is such a unique shopping experience!
Twin City Opera House
15 W Main St, McConnelsville, OH 43756
The Twin City Opera House is truly magnificent. It stands tall in the center of the town and has been open to the public since 1892. It's home to the Ohio Valley Opry where shows are held every third Saturday of the month in January - November.
You can also catch a movie here on most weekends. If you love a good ghost story or tour check out the "hauntings" section on their website.
Old Bridge Brewing Company
281 W Main St
McConnelsville, OH 43756
Old Bridge Brewing Company is located in a renovated building that used to be a car repair shop from 1919. It sits next to the Muskingum River and the McConnelsville- Malta Bridge. They have many varieties of beer to choose from and flights available. If you're not a fan of beer they do make delicious seltzers.
There's also a beautiful event room and cozy outdoor patio. We loved the "pre-paid pints" board- where you can buy a friend a pint of beer for the next time they come. Don't forget to grab a growler to take home for a rainy day!
Home + Brew by Misdiy
69 W Main St
McConnelsville, OH 43756
I was lucky enough to stop by and check out the cozy new coffee shop on Main Street. Not only is this a coffee shop, but it will also be selling home decor and Holiday goods. I love that there will be events held here such as DIY classes!
Maxwell's Pizza & Rooftop Patio
975 W Riverside Dr.
McConnelsville, OH 43756
This pizza place sits right along the Muskingum River and has a fun, laid-back atmosphere. We loved sitting up on the rooftop patio and watching the sunset. The swinging chairs are definitely an added bonus! We ordered a build your own pizza which was so perfect after a day of exploring. They also have wraps, wings, salads, and sandwiches available.
Riversedge Campground
520 N Riverview Rd
Malta, OH 43758
The Riversedge Campground is located in Malta, next to McConnelsville. They offer canoe rentals you can rent hourly, 1/2 day, or full-day. It has a beach area on the Muskingum River that's perfect for fishing and launching your canoe or kayak. They offer tent spots and full hookup RV spots. It's so quiet, peaceful, and very family-friendly.
Jesse Owens State Park & Miners Memorial Park
4470 OH-78, McConnelsville, OH 43756
Jesse Owens State Park was once a mining area for coal. When the mining was complete, the land was reclaimed using the old topsoil that was dug up to mine. During the reclamation, hundreds of fishing lakes and ponds were added and about 63 million trees were planted. There are primitive campgrounds available with self-registration at no charge. We drove through the area on our way home, and I can only imagine how gorgeous it gets in the fall!
Miners Memorial Park is a memorial to honor all the men and women who worked the mine. It's also home to the Big Muskie Bucket. The bucket is the last remaining part of Big Muskie, the world's largest dragline that was in operation for 20 years. One of the photos at the park shows the entire Morgan High School Marching Band standing inside it. This is worth a stop when visiting Morgan County!
The Inns at 8th & Main
214 Main Street,
McConnelsville, OH 43756
This is a stunning and luxurious boutique B&B. It sits right on Main St. and is walkable to so many places. The historic Stone House used to be a stagecoach stop and tavern that was built in 1835. Our bed was so comfortable and the breakfast was unbelievably delicious.
I love all the add-ons they have available such as bringing a guest to breakfast, a cheese board, and in-room milk and cookies. You can also request to have breakfast delivered to your door in a beautiful basket if you wish to social distance.
Stockport
Historic Lock and Dam #6
The Historic Lock and Dam #6 is located across the river from the Stockport Mill. It is part of a system of lock throughs and dams that stretch from Marietta to Zanesville. The locks are used to create consistent water depth, which allows both commercial and recreational boats to travel up and down the river. The system, which was created in the 1800s, opened the area up for trade and development. The lock and dams are still being used today by recreational boaters.
CJ's Family Restaurant
1920 Main Street
Stockport, OH 43787
(740) 559-3966
If you're craving a good down-home country meal at a great price, then CJ's should definitely be on your list. CJs has been around for over 30 years and it's where all the locals go (so you know it's going to be good!). We had breakfast here, and I couldn't believe how delicious and fluffy my pancake was. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with an extensive sandwich list. Don't forget that they also have freshly baked pie for dessert.
The Stockport Mill Inn
1995 Broadway Avenue Stockport, Ohio 43787-0478
The Stockport Mill Inn is such a unique and beautiful place to stay. The mill was built in 1906 with turbines that still produce electricity to this day. It ran as a gristmill from 1906-1997 and opened as an Inn in 2000. There are 14 guest rooms with private balconies overlooking the Muskingum River. There's also a restaurant on the first floor with a wrap-around terrace.
When walking through the Inn, you can still find original pieces that were once used in the gristmill. Keep in mind they don't have an elevator but do have a handicap-accessible room available on the 1st floor. The 4th floor also has an incredible suite with a 6 person spa, kitchenette, dining area, and 2 bedrooms! This Inn is perfect for any type of getaway.
Chesterhill
Multicultural Genealogical Center
7540 Marion Street
Chesterhill, OH 43728
The Multicultural Genealogical Center is home to a great collection of documents and records of multiracial and multicultural families in Southeast Ohio including the Freedom Seekers and early Native Americans once living in the area. We toured the building and learned that it was also part of the Underground Railroad where Freedom Seekers were known to be hidden downstairs in the basement. The center is currently open by appointment only.
The Quaker Meeting House
1510 Coal St.
Chesterhill, OH 43728
Quakers first settled in Chesterhill in the early 1830s, and the Quaker Meeting House was built in 1834. The Meeting House played a huge part in the Underground Railroad. It was once a place where Freedom Seekers found refuge, and legends say that none were ever captured. Today the Meeting House is still being used every Sunday at 10:30 AM for worship.
Triple Nickel Diner
1060 High St.
Chesterhill, Ohio 43728
The Triple Nickel Diner is a true gem in Chesterhill. It's a farm-to-table restaurant where the food is made with love and local ingredients! All of the produce and meat is purchased within a 5-mile radius. There's even a garden behind the restaurant! They offer daily specials and seasonal menu items.
The Unique Milkhouse Cottage Inn
1820 Mill Street, Chesterhill, OH 43728
This Airbnb is such a dreamy place to escape to! The garden is absolutely breathtaking and the hosts (located next door) are so friendly and welcoming. This has to be one of the most unique places I've stayed.
It's located on an old milk farm in Chesterhill (not too far from the town). The Milkhouse Cottage is new, but they were able to keep the rustic silo, adding so much character to the place! The cottage also has over 30 windows. I loved waking up and sitting on the patio listening to the roosters crow. This place is an experience in itself!
Start planning your trip today!
Morgan County truly has so much to offer. With plenty of nature to explore, many historical sights, small-town charm, and delicious food, this will make the perfect trip for anyone! This was such a unique trip for both me and my husband. We had a great experience talking to the locals and small business owners. We could feel a sense of love and pride for the area through each story that they shared with us. You can also visit the Morgan County visitors website and search "Morgan County" on the Ohio. Find it Here. website for more amazing trip ideas!
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