Family Fun

With so many different and unique attractions to enjoy, Fairfield County is the ideal spot for family fun! There’s truly something for everyone, from outdoor adventures and festivals to educational museums and family-friendly campgrounds.

Buckeye Lake

Outdoor Fun

Fairfield County, Ohio offers a wealth of outdoor family fun activities. Explore the beautiful nature trails in the county parks, perfect for hiking and picnicking. Families can visit the scenic Stebelton  Park at Rock Mill to see the historic grist mill and enjoy the serene landscape.

For those interested in water activities, Buckeye Lake provides opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing and more. Lancaster, offers a range of outdoor family fun opportunities. You can start by exploring the beautiful Rising Park, which is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the scenic views.

Outdoor Recreation

3XP Tours

Buckeye Lakes’ original bike, kayak, and brew tour

Jackson Lake

Stay & play at Jackson Lake Campground & Park

Beavers Field

Enjoy a baseball game at this Lancaster landmark

Fairfield Heritage Trail

Ride, Walk Run

Buckeye Lake Dam-Walking & Biking Trail

A 4-mile shoreline path across the top of the dam that connects the North Shore to Lieb’s Island and offers a variety of areas for fishing and relaxation.

Fun on the Farm

Hidden Acres Legacy Farm

Come and sit by the pond, cuddle a goat, grab a hug from a dog, or watch birds on the porch.

Ochs Fruit Farm

This family farm features more than 90 varieties of apples and 25 varieties of peaches!

Slate Run Living Historic Farm

Experience first-hand what life was like on an Ohio farm.

Hidden View Farmstead

During the fall the farmstead has a pick-your-own pumpkin patch, corn maize, and games that the kids will love.

Parks & Nature

Buckeye Lake State Park

Grab your friends & family and head to Buckeye Lake for all kinds of fun! Whatever your interests, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Rising Park

Enjoy a serene day of hiking, picnicking, playing, sightseeing, and fishing at Lancaster’s Rising Park — one of the county’s most beloved local spots.

Stebelton Park at Rock Mill

Some of the activities you can enjoy at this park are viewing Rock Mill and Rock Mill Covered Bridge, birding and nature watching, photography, hiking or walking, dog walking, picnicking.

Christmas Rocks State Nature Preserve

This 415-acre preserve features Appalachian type plant communities, a deep stream valley, and a prominent Black Hand Sandstone overlook known as Jacobs Ladder.

More about Parks and Nature

Enjoy miles and miles of hiking, biking, and walking trails. Across our county, the parks offer opportunities for people of all interests and ages to play and have fun.

Unique Experiences

Fairfield County, Ohio, offers a variety of unique family fun experiences that are perfect for creating lasting memories. Dive into adventure with the various trails available, such as the Covered Bridge Trail, which combines natural beauty with a glimpse into the past. For educational opportunities, the county boasts several engaging options. The Ohio Glass Museum offers fascinating insights into the art of glassmaking, while the AHA! A Hands-On Adventure Children’s Museum provides interactive learning experiences for children.

Art and culture enthusiasts will appreciate the Fairfield County District Library’s events and workshops, and the Decorative Arts Center of Ohio, which showcases regional art and history exhibits. Whether you’re exploring the outdoors or soaking up culture, Fairfield County promises enriching and enjoyable experiences for the whole family.

Adventure Trails

FC Sweet Tooth Trail

Make your way across Fairfield County and take in our small-town charm and scenic countryside while you nibble on your choice of delicious sweet treats.

Lancaster’s Open Air Art Trail

Stroll the streets of downtown Lancaster and experience an amazing variety of public artworks! Around almost every corner you can find eclectic murals, imaginative sculptures, stained, leaded, and art glass, and unique architectural appurtenances.

Pip’s Path Through Lancaster, Ohio

Pip’s Path is a 2019 children’s book written and illustrated by Erin M. Burchwell. The story tells the tale of a shy squirrel named Pip who explores Lancaster, Ohio with his animal friends. You can explore Pip’s Path too by visiting all the locations featured in the book!

Pickerington Fairy House Trail Scavenger Hunt

This magical experience is family-friendly and a delight to visitors of all ages. The tiny houses have been created by local art students as well as Girl Scout and Boy Scout troops.

Green Thumb Trail

Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of native plants, discover unique specimens, and learn about sustainable gardening practices. Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature, the Green Thumb Trail offers a delightful journey through Fairfield County’s botanical treasures.
sweet tooth trail logo

A Spring Adventure for the Curious & the Sweet-Toothed

Spring in Fairfield County means fresh blooms, warmer days, and the perfect excuse to indulge your sweet tooth or satisfy your curiosity.

Check out the blog!

Educational Experiences

The Fairfield County District Library

The Fairfield County District Library is a continuous learning center which enriches the community by inspiring choices for reading, entertainment, and lifelong learning which are free and accessible to all, with an emphasis on excellence in customer service.

AHA! A Hands-On Adventure Museum

Young children are invited to use their imagination, creativity, and sense of discovery in this 8,000 square foot facility. With more than 60 hands-on exhibits, children from 6 months to 8 years of age can become explorers, scientists, engineers, and artists.

Decorative Arts Center of Ohio

The Decorative Arts Center of Ohio engages visitors with innovative and stimulating exhibitions, unleashing a sense of possibility and imagination.

The Wagnalls Memorial

The Wagnalls Memorial is more than just a library! In 1925 Mabel Wagnalls Jones designed and built The Wagnalls Memorial library and community center in memory of her parents, Anna and Adam Wagnalls.

Historical Aircraft Squadron Museum

Enjoy a variety of planes and military vehicles available for a real hands-on experience. Visitors can touch the planes, and even climb into the cockpit and get a feel for what it was like to fly one of these warbirds.

Art & Culture

Ohio Glass Museum and Glass Blowing Studio

Visitors are taken on a fascinating journey through history to learn how glass has been formed and transformed from ancient Egyptians to modern-day artisans. Visitors are encouraged to learn the craft during a hands-on class at the studio

Art & Clay on Main

Art & Clay on Main and Square 7 Coffee House is a nonprofit social enterprise of the Fairfield County Board of DD. We’re a public paint-your-own pottery studio with a full coffee house inside, open daily for walk-ins. Also offering themed paint nights, classes, and—all supporting creativity and community.

Young at Art

Young at Art offers something for everyone! From small group art lessons, to canvas painting parties, to its very own splatter studio, you are sure to experience both creativity and fun!

The Fountain in Downtown Lancaster

This beloved Lancaster landmark is a replica of a fountain from Etain, France. The fountain has graced downtown Lancaster with its beauty since 1890.

Fun in All Seasons

Fairfield County, Ohio, offers a variety of family-friendly activities and events that cater to all ages. A must-visit is the Games We Play Escape Rooms which provides a fun and challenging experience for families who enjoy solving puzzles and working as a team. For those who love skating and arcade games, Amanda Roller Rink is a great destination with a wide range of entertainment options.

Throughout the year, Fairfield County hosts several annual events that bring the community together. In the fall, families can enjoy the “Fairfield County Fair,” featuring carnival rides, games, and delicious fair food. The Buckeye Lake Pirate Fest offers a weekend filled with family-friendly activities, including treasure hunts and pirate marketplaces. There’s so much to discover and enjoy at the annual events and festivals in Fairfield County!

Games & Activities

Amanda Roller Rink

Enjoy skating, retro video games, music and concession food at this Fairfield County favorite!

The Games We Play Escape Rooms

Using the latest in technology and design, The Games We Play creates immersive and interactive experiences.

Get Air Trampoline Park

Have fun, be safe and create lasting memories with trampolines, ninja course, toddler jump space, and foam pits.

Tiki Bowling Lanes

Tiki Lanes features all kinds of family fun! This bowling alley has more than 40 lanes, along with a full-service restaurant and bar.

Fairfield County Geocaching Trail

Fairfield County is a great place for geocachers! With hundreds of caches throughout the county, you can spend the whole day or just a few hours adding to your “finds”.

Rule 3

Rule 3 was founded upon the very simple notion that nothing in this world matters more than family. Through ups and downs and times of triumph and hardship, the moments spent with those we love make the biggest difference in our lives.

Annual Events

Freedom’s Never Free – November

This celebration honors our veterans, military, and first responders with a traveling memorial wall, USO dance, inspirational speeches, and more.

Winter at the Round Barn – November

Join the Round Barn Vintage & Made Market for Winter at the Round Barn on Nov 30th from 10-4!

Advent Window Walk – December

A Window into the Holiday Spirit: Nation’s Only Residential Advent Project | Each night of December, a different resident of Historic Downtown Lancaster, Ohio will reveal unique, illuminated window artwork.

GlassTown Countdown – NYE (Dec 31)

Enjoy the free, family-friendly street party at Zane Square in downtown Lancaster where you can explore local shops and restaurants!

Buckeye Lake Winterfest – January

This annual celebration combines a prediction of spring’s arrival with early morning fireworks, live music, food and shopping specials, an art show, a Polar Plunge, and more at locations around the lake.

Maple Tapping Festival – March

Join Lancaster Parks and Recreation at Alley Park for the Maple Tapping Festival! Visit log cabin stations to learn about the history of maple tapping in America, then stop by the sugar shack and see the evaporator in action as it cooks down the sap to make maple syrup. Plus, enjoy a pancake breakfast in the lodge!

Seasonal Experiences

Skyview Drive-In

This is the place to be on a summer night! Skyview Drive In shows movies in high quality digital HD 1080 picture quality on a 80′ screen. Digital sound is available – or hook the speaker up to the window if you’re feeling nostalgic. The concession stand is full of tasty options.

The Autumn Experience

Join us throughout September and October for The Autumn Experience! Want new, fun ways to experience autumn? We’ve put them all together for you.

Wands & Wizards Weekend

Wands & Wizards Weekend is an annual event that happens in Fairfield County, Ohio. During this magical weekend, businesses and organizations across the county celebrate all things enchanting and mystical with specials and events.

Tinsel & Traditions

The holidays are all about time spent with family and friends, creating memories to last a lifetime. Whether it’s picking out the perfect tree, attending fun holiday events, shopping locally for just the right gift, or enjoying festive decorations, we’ve got you covered.

Trail of Scarecrows

No matter what you love most about autumn, you’re sure to fall for this event – the Trail of Scarecrows! Named the “Scarecrow Capital of Ohio,” Fairfield County holds a scarecrow contest in each community across the county every fall. Visit them all and vote for your favorite!

Upcoming Family Fun Events

Fairfield County is bustling with exciting events that promise fun and entertainment for everyone in the family!

Oct 31

Goosebumps at the Victoria Opera House

Oct 31 ‐ Nov 2, 2025 All Day

Victoria Opera House 101 South Main Street

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Nov 2

Fall Family Health Fest & Fall Cottage Tour

Fairfield County Health Department

November 2, 2025 11:00 AM ‐ 1:00 PM EST

Lancaster Camp Ground 2151 West Fair Avenue

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Nov 2

Fall Foliage Series Hike at Wahkeena Nature Preserve

November 2, 2025 1:00 PM ‐ 2:30 PM EST

Wahkeena State Nature Preserve 2200 Pump Station Road Southeast

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Nov 3

Books & Brews Morning Edition

November 3, 2025 9:30 AM ‐ 10:30 AM EST

Carroll Cup Coffee House 75 East Canal Street

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Nov 7

Fused Glass Class – Holiday Ornaments

Nov 7 ‐ Dec 27, 2025 All Day

Ohio Glass Museum and Glass Blowing Studio 124 West Main Street

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Nov 7

An Evening at the Opera House: Celebrating Poets and Storytellers

November 7, 2025 7:00 PM ‐ 9:00 PM EST

Victoria Opera House 101 South Main Street

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More Family Fun Events
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