Southeast Ohio attractions begin to open for the season

CAMBRIDGE — Southeast Ohio's seasonal tourism attractions await visitors.

As families start preparing for their summer vacations, Guernsey County and the surrounding area offer a budget-friendly and enjoyable break from the usual, said Debbie Robinson, executive director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitor and Convention Bureau.

"With a fascinating history shaped by remarkable individuals and industries, this area is a must-visit,” she said.

Looking for an exotic adventure without the hassle of getting a passport? Look no further than The Wilds, operated by the Columbus Zoo, in Cumberland. The private, nonprofit safari park and conservation center that combines conservation science and education programs. This destination offers safe and up close animal encounters for the whole family, including beautiful giraffes and stunning painted dogs. With a rooftop Terrace Grill, specialty tours, zipline adventures and more, there's always something new to explore at The Wilds. Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily from May 1 through Oct. 31, it's the perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. It is located at 14000 International Road, Cumberland. Visit www.thewilds.org today to plan your adventure.

Coal was once king in Guernsey County and you can learn why with a visit to the Guernsey County History Museum. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the area with a life-like replica of an Ohio coal mine from the 1890s. Kids will love exploring the unique one-room schoolhouse. The museum is open from noon to 3 p.m. now through Dec. 30 on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children. It is located at 218 N. Eighth St., Cambridge. To find out more visit www.guernseycountyhistory.org.

The captivating art of glassmaking is preserved at the National Museum of Cambridge Glass with interactive exhibits and more than 10,000 exquisite pieces of glassware crafted by the renowned Cambridge Glass Company. From April through October, the museum offers tours and interactive exhibits to help visitors understand the intricate process of glass making from gathering to shaping, etching and engraving. The museum is open bow through Oct. 29. Guests can visit from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Saturdays and from noon to 4 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $6; seniors/AAA members pay $5; children 12 and under are free. It is located at 136 S. Ninth St., Cambridge. For more information, visit www.cambridgeglassmuseum.org.

The natural beauty of Guernsey County is abundantly displayed at the Deerassic Park Welcome Center. With interactive activity centers, a slide and a mural, families will learn about the plants and animals that thrive in the region. The welcome center offers hands-on displays and information about Ohio's native wildlife. Open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursdays through Sundays, from May to October, the center is free for all visitors. Don't forget to check out the Ohio Whitetail Deer Hall of Fame while you're there. It is located at 14250 Cadiz Road, Cambridge. Plan your visit now at www.deerassic.com.

Explore American history from the Great Depression to the Great Space Race by visiting the John & Annie Glenn Museum, a national historic site. From May 3 to Oct. 28, you can experience the lives of the Glenns and gain insights into life in 1937. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Saturdays, and from 1 to 4 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and groups of 10 or more, $3 for students, and free for children aged 6 and below. It is located at 72 W. Main St., New Concord. Visit www.johnglennhome.org for more information.

America's fascinating history of a bustling western route is the plot for many a Zane Grey novel. Delve into the legacy of renowned Grey and his books at the National Road & Zane Grey Museum. Discover the rich narrative behind the construction of the National Road and the pioneering spirit that shaped America's heartland. Guided tours are available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from May 3 to Oct. 29, Wednesdays to Saturdays, and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $3 for students, and $5 for groups. It is located at 5550 East Pike, Norwich. Plan your visit today at www.ohiohistory.org/visit/museum-and-site-locator/national-road-and-zane-grey-museum.

Visit the historic site of Stone House Museum. Originally built in 1837 by Benjamin Kennedy, the museum is housed in the last remaining original homestead structure made of sandstone quarried nearby. When the house was originally built, it overlooked Sugar Tree Fork and likely provided majestic views of fields and pastures dotted by sheep. Today, the house is nestled in the woods, overlooking the Salt Fork Lake. In 1999, a group of volunteers raised funds and oversaw the restoration of the house. After the house was restored to its 1840s appearance, it was officially dedicated a museum. The museum is open from 1 to 5 p.m. from May 5 to Oct. 29, every Friday through Sunday. It is located at 14755 Cadiz Road, Lore City. Learn more at www.saltforkparklodge.com/recreation/property-activities/kennedy-stone-house.

Journey to Old Jerusalem with The Living Word Outdoor Drama as Ohio’s only outdoor drama celebrates its 50th season in 2024. Witness the dramatic retelling of Jesus' final days, from the iconic Sermon on the Mount to His Ascension. Performances take place each Friday from June 14 to Sept. 27. Be part of the production as extras in crowd scenes and engage with the story like never before. Tickets are available for adults at $18, seniors at $16, and children aged 4-12 at $6. It is located at 6010 College Hill Road, Cambridge. Visit www.livingworddrama.org to secure your spot today.

For more information contact the Cambridge/Guernsey County VCB office at 627 Wheeling Ave., Suite 200, Cambridge, call 740-432-2022, email destination@VisitGuernseyCounty.com or log onto VisitGuernseyCounty.com.

Debbie Robinson is the director of the Cambridge/Guernsey County Visitor and Convention Bureau.

This article originally appeared on The Daily Jeffersonian: Southeast Ohio museums and more set to open for tourism season