A 2–3 Day Southeast Ohio Getaway: The Wilds, Ancient Earthworks & Scenic Hiking
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Amy Smith | Innkeeper at The Inns at 8th and Main
If you're craving a getaway that feels both meaningful and restorative, Southeast Ohio offers something rare.
Here, your days can be filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters, quiet hikes through wooded trails, and moments of connection to history that stretch back thousands of years.
And right in the middle of it all is The Inns at 8th & Main in historic McConnelsville, Ohio. A place to slow down, settle in, and experience it all at your own pace.
Day 1: Arrival, Small-Town Charm & Settling In
Arrive in McConnelsville and ease into your stay.
Instead of rushing into an itinerary, take time to walk through town, explore local shops, and enjoy a relaxed dinner. There’s something about the pace here that invites you to slow down almost immediately.
Guests often tell us this first evening sets the tone for the entire trip.
Back at the Inn, settle in and get ready for a different kind of stay, one where the details matter and the pace feels just right.
Day 2: The Wilds & An Unforgettable Experience
Just 25–30 minutes from the Inn, The Wilds offers one of the most unique wildlife experiences in the Midwest.
Rolling landscapes, open-air safaris, and close-up encounters create moments that stay with you long after your visit.
Recently, we hosted guests who traveled from Oregon just to experience The Wilds.
His highlight? Getting to pet a baby white rhino, like a kid on Christmas morning.Hers? Spending time with the giraffes.
The way they shared those stories over breakfast the next morning reminded us that travel isn’t just about what you see. It’s about how it makes you feel.
After a full day, returning to a quiet, comfortable space makes all the difference.
Evenings here are relaxed. Mornings begin with coffee, conversation, and a breakfast worth lingering over.
Day 3: Choose Your Adventure – History or Hiking
This is where your stay becomes your own.
Option 1: Explore Ohio’s World Heritage Earthworks
Within about an hour of the Inn, you’ll find the remarkable Newark Earthworks, part of Ohio’s UNESCO World Heritage designation.
Built over 2,000 years ago, these geometric earthworks are among the largest in the world. Walking the grounds is quiet, reflective, and unlike anything else in the region.
You may also choose to explore additional Hopewell sites near Chillicothe, adding depth and meaning to your trip.
Option 2: Scenic Hiking & A Breath of Fresh Air
If you’re craving time outdoors, Southeast Ohio offers beautiful hiking options within easy reach.
Burr Oak State Park – peaceful wooded trails, lake views, and a slower pace that matches the spirit of your stay
Jesse Owens State Park – a unique landscape shaped by nature and history, perfect for exploring off the beaten path
Buckeye Trail access nearby – ideal for those who want to experience a piece of Ohio’s long-distance hiking trail
Whether you’re looking for a gentle walk or a longer hike, this region gives you space to breathe and reconnect.
Why Stay at The Inns at 8th & Main
What makes a trip like this truly special isn’t just the destinations. It’s how it all comes together.
At The Inns at 8th & Main, guests experience:
A central location between The Wilds, hiking trails, and historic sites
A quiet, walkable setting in historic McConnelsville
Three thoughtfully restored homes with boutique charm
Hosted by owners Dan & Amy
Thoughtful details that make your stay feel personal
Breakfasts that guests talk about long after they leave
We’re not just where you stay. We’re part of the experience.
Plan Your Southeast Ohio Getaway
Whether you're drawn by wildlife, history, hiking, or simply the need to slow down, Southeast Ohio offers a getaway that feels different in the best way.
Many guests arrive planning a quick visit… and leave wishing they had stayed longer.
If you're ready to plan your own 2–3 day escape, we’d love to host you.
👉 Check availability and plan your stay at The Inns at 8th & Main
