Go on fabulous day trips with your family and friends in a spacious and comfortable Ford Explorer or Expedition to extraordinary places and discover a world of wonders within driving distance of Washington Court House, OH. Discover a magical rock garden, hike to hidden waterfalls through deep, shaded gorges, explore the winding passages of historic caverns, and learn more about the Wyandot tribe.
1. Hartman Rock Garden
Visit the extraordinary Hartman Rock Garden, crafted by Ben Hartman between 1932 and 1944. This one-of-a-kind garden captures the imagination, from a fairytale castle and charming figurines to a serene fishing pond. Using materials like glass, wood, concrete, metal, and countless stones, Hartman brought his vision to life in stunning detail. Every feature is a testament to his creativity and skill.
His wife, Mary, cared for the garden with great love until her passing in 1997. Today, the Friends of the Hartman Rock Garden owns and maintains the garden.
Address and Hours
Hartman Rock Garden is at 1905 Russell Avenue in Springfield, roughly 40 miles away, and is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
2. Hocking Hills State Park
Discover the towering cliffs, deep, hemlock-shaded gorges, water-carved Black Hand Sandstone, and the recess caves hidden behind breathtaking waterfalls in the awe-inspiring Hocking Hills State Park, one of Ohio’s most beautiful state parks and voted by Forbes as one of the top places to travel in 2023.
The caves, with their cascading waterfalls, add to their air of mystery and tell the story of thousands of years of geologic history. Hike down the trails through the winding gorges to the caves, created when the Wisconsin Glacier began to melt, rushing through cracks in the ground and enjoying a bite to eat at one of the picturesque spots along the way.
Address and Hours
Hocking Hills State Park is at 19852 State Route 664 South in Logan, just over 56 miles away, and is open all year round from half an hour before sunrise to half an hour after sunset.
3. Olentangy Indian Caverns
Embark on an adventure through the winding tunnels of the magnificent Olentangy Indian Caverns, formed millions of years ago by an underground river carving its way through the soft limestone rock. The Wyandot tribe used the caverns to evade their enemies and take refuge from the elements.
Once you’ve explored the twisting passages, visit the museum and learn about the caverns’ history, the Wyandot tribe, and the arrows and stone implements uncovered in the caverns with help from audio recordings and interpretive panels.
Address and Hours
Olentangy Indian Caverns is at 1779 Home Road in Delaware, a 56,6-mile drive from Washington Court House, and is open daily from March 25 to October 21 between 9:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Head down southwest Ohio’s highways and byways and discover fascinating sights along the way. Before you hop in your car, call John Hinderer Ford today to schedule an appointment to ensure your vehicle will get you safely anywhere you want to go.
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