Exploring Butler County: The Best Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

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ByHeather Updated on

Hamilton, Ohio is experiencing a much-deserved revitalization. Founded in 1791 as the site of Fort Hamilton, the town began to flourish in the 1800’s because of the Miami and Erie Canal railroad; and it quickly became home to some of the greatest industrialists of the 19th century. Fast forward to today, the renaissance and community spirit in Hamilton is palpable. Historical architecture, a vibrant arts and culture scene (Hamilton is nicknamed the City of Sculpture) and charming locally owned store fronts invite you to this welcoming Ohio town. You’ll find plenty of fun things to do in Hamilton, Ohio.

As the county seat of Butler County (just north of Cincinnati), Hamilton makes the perfect home base to explore the area. Butler County is full of lively communities awaiting to be explored. From one of the sweetest food trails in the country, the Butler County Donut Trail, foodie paradise at Jungle Jim’s International Market or adrenaline pumping adventures like sky diving; you’ll need more than one weekend to explore all the fun things to do in Butler County, Ohio.

Looking for more on Butler County, Ohio? Read Weekend Getaway Guide: Things To Do In Butler County, Ohio

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Hamilton, Ohio

Things to do in Hamilton, Ohio:

Holiday Auto Theatre

A Butler County staple since 1948, when it was opened as the Hamilton Outdoor Theatre, this drive-in movie theater is the place to watch blockbuster movies during the spring, summer and fall. Pick a spot with the best view, listen to the movie through your vehicle’s radio and visit the snack bar for a fun night under the stars. As one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in the state, watching a movie at this outdoor theater is one of the most unique and fun things to do in Hamilton, Ohio.

More details:

  • Address: 1816 Old Oxford Rd., St. Rt. 130 Hamilton, OH
  • Hours: Check website for movie show times during Spring, Summer and Fall
  • Admission: $8.75 Adults, $5.50 Children ages 4-11, Children under 3 free
  • Website: http://www.holidayautotheatre.com/index.php

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Holiday Auto Theatre

Art Murals

Public art displays are a great way to convert a boring space into a vibrant piece of artwork. Hamilton has several fun art murals throughout the city. Take a self-guided art mural tour to experience the eye-catching street art up close.

 Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

     Alexander Hamilton Mural, 15 South D St.                Delicate Balance of Progress Mural, 212 Main St.

 Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio Things To Do In Butler County, Ohio

      Left-Hander For Life Mural, 15 South B St.                          Golden Ethos Mural, 134 N. Second St.

  Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

        McCloskey Mural, 20 High St.                            Taking Flight Mural, Corner of Second and High St. at Rotary Park

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Hey Caddy-O Mural, 736 High St.

Petals & Wicks

This unique candle bar encourages visitors to create signature scented candles. Cheerful owners, Sherry and Mike Hoskins, walk you through the entire process so you can create a unique scented candle. Start by choosing 5-15 scents from more than 70 scented candles, then Sherry will ask you questions regarding what type of scent you are looking for. Once you mix your ideal fragrances, Sherry pours them into a soy-based wax into a container of your choice. The candle takes about an hour to set-up, which is the perfect time to explore the local shops and restaurants near Petals & Wicks. Upon returning to Petals & Wicks, name your candle and your one-of-a-kind candle is ready to take home.

I chose floral fragrances and created a scent I named “Grandpa’s Garden.” It reminded me of the hours I spent helping my grandpa out in the garden tending to the numerous flowers and plants that smelled so fragrant.

More details:

 Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Petals & Wicks

Municipal Brew Works

The beautiful Art Deco building once housed a fire station and police department. Now the 80+ year Hamilton Municipal Building is a craft brewery named Municipal Brew Works. While you’ll come for the beers (the brewery features rotating taps year-round), take a moment to appreciate how the brewery utilizes the historical space. The former police detective office acts as the cold storage area, the previous city vault now houses grain storage and the former police firing range in the basement holds the boiler which heats the entire brewhouse. Municipal Brew Works is family and dog friendly!

More details:

  • Address: 20 High St., Hamilton, OH
  • Hours: Closed Monday, 3pm-10:30pm Tuesday-Thursday, 3pm-Midnight Friday, Noon-Midnight Saturday, 12:30pm-6pm Sunday
  • Website: http://www.municipal.beer

 Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Self-Guided Historic Walking Tour

Taking a stroll through Hamilton, visitors can see the revitalization that this historic Ohio city deserves. The historic town of Hamilton holds many treasures, including: the Benninghofen House, Lane-Hooven House, Hughes Schoolhouse, Dayton Lane Historic District, German Village Historic District, Butler County Veterans Memorial, Soldiers, Sailors and Pioneers Monument, Butler County Court House, Fort Hamilton and the High-Main Street Bridge. History buffs will love their visit to Hamilton as there are plenty of historic things to do in Hamilton, Ohio.

Download the Walking Tour of Historic Hamilton, Ohio map here.

Benninghofen House

This Italianate home was built in 1861 and home to the Benninghofen family for nearly 75 years. Original architectural details and period furnishings showcase the beauty of this 150+ year old home. Now the Benninghofen House is home to the Butler County Historical Society.

More details:

  • Address: 327 N. 2ndSt. Hamilton, OH
  • Hours: 10am-3pm Tuesday, Thursday & Friday, 10am-1pm Saturday; tours by appointment
  • Website: https://bchistoricalsociety.com
Butler County Courthouse

Constructed between 1885 and 1889, the Butler County Courthouse is the grand pillar of downtown Hamilton.  The striking architecture placed it on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981.

More details:

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Butler County Courthouse

Historic Dayton Lane District

This historic district includes homes of Hamilton’s most prominent industrialists of the late 19th century. Featuring several architectural styles: Queen Anne, Italianate, Second Empire and Georgian Revival, the collection of 210 historic structures welcomes history buffs to marvel at the impressive homes from the sidewalk.

More details:

German Village Historic District

This nine-block historic district has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1991. Showcasing beautiful architecture from the 19th century: Queen Anne, Italianate, Eastlake and Gothic Revival style structures, take an hour to walk the neighborhood and marvel at the impressive architecture.

More details:

  • Address: Corners of Vine St. and Dayton St., corner of Riverfront Plz. & Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Heritage Hall

The former Hamilton Municipal Building opened in 1935 and it has one of the finest displays of Art Deco architecture in the county. Now, Heritage Hall is home to exhibits highlighting Hamilton and Butler County’s history as well as the Robert McCloskey Museum.

More details:

  • Address: 20 High St., Hamilton, OH
  • Hours: 10am-4pm Friday, 9am-2pm Saturday
  • Admission: Free, donations are encouraged
  • Website: http://hamiltonheritagehall.org
Lane-Hooven House

The adorable Lane-Hooven House is one of only 400 octagonal houses in the United States.  Built in 1863 by prominent industrialist, Clark Lane, the Victorian Gothic home is listed on the National Register of Historic Homes and now houses the Hamilton Community Foundation.

More details:

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Lane-Hooven House

Soldiers, Sailors and Pioneers Monument

As one of the most iconic buildings in Butler County, this monument stands upon the 1790’s site of Fort Hamilton. The Soldiers, Sailors and Pioneers Monument honors those who have served our country and those who first settled Butler County. Take a tour of the monument to view the stained-glass windows, military displays and an impressive collection of Civil War weapons.

More details:

The Arches

This historic architectural marvel has withstood natural disasters and the test of time since 1855.  Designed by John S. Earhart to allow trains to continue along the railroad, cross over the Great Miami River and to climb the steep Rossville Hill. The 665-foot, 17-arch viaduct is a testament to Hamilton’s historic past.

More details:

  • Address: Arch St., Hamilton, OH
Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

The Arches

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park

Located just outside of Hamilton, the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park has more than 60 outdoor sculptures scattered about the nearly 300-acre park. Visitors can enjoy hiking and driving trails to view the sculptures, an amphitheater, picnic areas, and the Ancient Sculpture Museum featuring Greek, Roman, Etruscan, and Egyptian sculptures dating back to 1550 B.C. For a fun way to explore the park, rent an art cart (golf cart).

More details:

  • Address: 1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd., Hamilton, OH
  • Hours: 8am-5pm Daily November – March; 8am-7pm Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm Saturday & Sunday April- October
  • Admission: $8.00 Adults, $3.00 Children ages 6-12, Children under 5 free
  • Website: https://www.pyramidhill.org

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park

 Fitton Center for Creative Arts

Fitton Center for Creative Arts houses several galleries with unique art exhibitions. Visitors can peruse the art exhibits, buy local artwork, take a class or watch a live performance at one of their theater productions.

More details:

  • Address: 101 S. Monument Ave.
  • Gallery Hours: Noon-7pm Monday-Thursday, Noon-5pm Friday, 10am-2pm Saturday
  • Building Hours: 10am-7pm Monday-Thursday, 10am-5pm Friday, 10am-2pm Saturday
  • Admission: Exhibitions are free, check website for ticket prices for performances
  • Website: https://www.fittoncenter.org
Butler Philharmonic

Music lovers will be delighted to attend a live performance of the Butler Philharmonic Orchestra. Founded in 1951 as the Hamilton Symphony Orchestra, the orchestra has showcased renowned local and international guest musicians for more than 60 years. The Butler Philharmonic performs in venues throughout southeastern Ohio.

More details:

Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre

The Greater Hamilton Civic Theatre has been performing community theater since 1959. Showcasing theatrical performances of classic favorites and new musicals, an evening at the theater is fun for the entire family!

More details:

  • Address: Parrish Auditorium at Miami University Hamilton, 1601 University Blvd., Hamilton, OH
  • Admission: Check website for ticket information
  • Website: http://www.ghctplay.com

Outdoor Adventures in Hamilton, OH

Marcum Park and RiversEdge Amphitheater

Located along the Great Miami River, this six-acre park features sculptures, open greenspace, an amphitheater and a creek bed and splash ground opened during the warmer months. The RiversEdge Amphitheater has been voted as the #1 Live Music Venue in Greater Cincinnati and most of the shows are free!

More details:

Gilmore Metropark

Nature lovers will be delighted to explore this 268-acre park. With miles of hiking trails, a nature observation tower and abundant wildlife and bird species, Gilmore Metropark has become a prime bird watching destination. In fact, Audubon Ohio has named it as an “Important Birding Area.”

More details:

Millikin Mile at Millikin Woods MetroPark

As Hamilton’s first disc golf course, Millikin Mile is great for both novice and advanced players. The 9-hole course is located in the Millikin Woods Metropark.

More details:

MetroParks of Butler County

With nearly 5,000 acres of green spaces and recreational parks throughout Butler County, a visit to one of the eleven MetroParks in Butler County will delight any nature enthusiast. From hiking trails, horse trails and historic sites to outdoor activities, there’s fun for the entire family at one of the MetroParks of Butler County.

More details:

Where to Shop in Hamilton, Ohio

Whether you are looking for accessories, antiques, a unique gift, home décor or a new outfit, Hamilton has a great selection of local shops to choose from.

Sara’s House

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Sara’s House

Fleurish Home
Front Room on 7th
Hip Boutique
  • Address: 112 Main St.
  • Hours: 11am-7pm Thursday, 11am-6pm Friday, 11am-4pm Saturday
Lahvdah
  • Address: 408 Main St.
  • Hours: 10am-6pm Tuesday-Thursday, 10am-4pm Friday & Saturday
  • Website: https://www.lahvdah.org
Rustic Home
Secretly Shabby
Two Little Buds Florist
Pleasant Treasures Flea Market
  • Address: 4020 Pleasant Ave.
  • Hours: 10am-6pm Friday-Sunday

Restaurants in Hamilton, Ohio:

There’s no shortage of places to eat and drink in Hamilton and it might be hard to choose just one place. From chain restaurants to local hot spots, you’ll find a delicious meal at one of these restaurants in Hamilton, Ohio.

Jolly’s Drive-In
  • Address- Two Locations: 165 N. Brookwood Ave. and 210 N. Erie Highway
  • Hours: 11am-9:30pm Sunday-Wednesday, 11am-10pm Thursday-Saturday

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

                                                          Jolly’s Drive-In

Municipal Brew Works
  • Address: 20 High St.
  • Hours: 3pm-10:30pm Tuesday-Thursday, 3pm-Midnight Friday, Noon-Midnight Saturday, 12:30pm-6pm Sunday
  • Website: http://www.municipal.beer
Basil 1791
  • Address: 241 High St.
  • Hours: 11am-9pm Monday-Thursday, 11am-10pm Friday, Noon-10pm Saturday

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

Yummy sushi at Basil 1791

High Street Café
Hyde’s Restaurant
Plaza One Grille
  • Address: 1 Riverfront Plaza
  • Hours: Lunch 11:30am-2pm Monday-Friday; Dinner 5pm-10pm Monday-Saturday, 5pm-9pm Sunday
  • Website: http://plazaonegrille.com
The Avenue Tavern & Grille
  • Address: 4041 Pleasant Ave.
  • Hours: 11am-2:30am Monday-Saturday, 11am-1am Sunday
All8Up
  • Address: 23 N. 3rdSt.
  • Hours: 11am-9pm Monday-Saturday
Comb’s BBQ Central (short drive from Hamilton and well worth it for amazing BBQ!)
  • Address: 2223 Central Ave. Middletown, OH
  • Hours: 11am-9pm Tuesday-Saturday

 Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

                                                              Adorable vintage decor and delicious BBQ!

True West Coffee
  • Address-Two Locations: 221 High St. and 313 Main St.
  • Hours: Check website for location hours
  • Website: https://truewestcoffee.com
Kelly’s Bakery
  • Address: 1335 Main St.
  • Hours: 5am-12:30pm Tuesday-Friday, 6am-Noon Saturday & Sunday
 Mimi’s Donuts and Bakery
  • Address: 2267 Millville Ave.
  • Hours: 6am-Noon Tuesday-Friday, 7am-Noon Saturday, 7am-11am Sunday
Ross Bakery
  • Address-Two Locations: 4421 Hamilton Cleves Rd. and 1051 Eaton Ave.
  • Hours: 4am-Noon Monday-Saturday
The Almond Sisters Bakery
  • Address: 224 High St.
  • Hours: 8am-2pm Monday, 8am-6pm Tuesday-Friday, 9am-2pm Saturday
Henry’s Candy Co

Things to do in Butler County, Ohio:

While there’s plenty of adventures to keep you busy in Hamilton, make time to explore more of Butler County. From one of the sweetest food trails in the country to the unbelievable foodie paradise found at Jungle Jim’s, you’ll savor every delicious bite in Butler County!

I promise you there’s more than just food in Butler County; shop till you drop at Liberty Center, visit the charming town of Oxford and stroll through Miami University’s campus, take a thrill-seeking adventure like skydiving or wakeboarding or get back to nature at one of the many parks and green spaces throughout the county.

Looking for more on Butler County, Ohio? Read Weekend Getaway Guide: Things To Do In Butler County, Ohio

Butler County Donut Trail

As one of the best food trails in the country, the Butler County Donut Trail is simply heaven for donut lovers. Twelve donut shops throughout the county (four in Hamilton) offer donut lovers original and unique flavors. From glazed to maple bacon to pineapple fritters to S’mores, the donuts you’ll encounter on this sweet trail are truly one-of-a-kind!

Pick up a Butler County Donut Trail Passport at one of the donut shops or download it here, purchase a donut at each trail stop and return your completed passport to the Butler County Visitors Bureau for a cool Donut Trail T-shirt! The Donut Trail is one of the sweetest things to do in Butler County!

More details:

Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

                                Eating my way through the sweetest food trail in Ohio, the Butler County Donut Trail! 

Jungle Jim’s International Market

Jungle Jim’s is a food lover’s paradise! Featuring 180,000 items from 70 countries, including: 1,400 international cheeses (don’t miss the 6,000 lb. Mammoth Cheddar!), 1,400 hot sauces, 4,000 beers and 15,000 wines. You can easily spend hours exploring the many food and drink treasures you’ll find at Jungle Jim’s!

More details:

  • Address: 5440 Dixie Hwy., Fairfield, OH
  • Hours: 8am-10pm, Daily
  • Admission: Free
  • Website: https://junglejims.com
Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio Things To Do In Hamilton, Ohio

                                                                         Exploring Jungle Jim’s with wine in hand! 

Liberty Center

As the premier entertainment complex in southeastern Ohio, Liberty Center offers more than 70 shops, dining and entertainment options. Whether for a girlfriend’s getaway to shop till you drop, a date night for a dinner and a movie or a family outing, there’s something for everyone at Liberty Center!

The AC Hotel Cincinnati at Liberty Center is conveniently located to make the most of your weekend getaway to the area.

More details:

Where to Stay in Butler County, Ohio:

While day trips in Ohio are fun, there’s plenty of fun things to do in Hamilton, Ohio to make it a weekend getaway! Check out these great hotels in and near Hamilton, Ohio.

Courtyard by Marriott Hamilton
AC Hotel Cincinnati at Liberty Center

 

 

 

A special thanks to the Butler County Visitors Bureau. I was an invited guest of Butler County Visitors Bureau. As always on Ohio Girl Travels, all opinions are my own.

 

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We LOVE visiting Hamilton Ohio. There are so many fun things to do in Hamilton including foodie spots in Hamilton, bars in Hamilton, art murals in Hamilton, history spots in Hamilton and more. Come see what our favorite things about Hamilton are and add it to your Hamilton trip board so you don't miss anything when you come to visit! #hamilton #ohio #ohiotravel We LOVE visiting Hamilton Ohio. There are so many fun things to do in Hamilton including foodie spots in Hamilton, bars in Hamilton, art murals in Hamilton, history spots in Hamilton and more. Come see what our favorite things about Hamilton are and add it to your Hamilton trip board so you don't miss anything when you come to visit! #hamilton #ohio #ohiotravel

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