A trip to the Laurelville Apple House is a yearly pilgrimage for many folks. Whether you come every year, want to go for the first time, or live near by, below are a few lesser known destinations in the area. Laurelville Apple House is located in Hocking County, in SE Ohio. It is conveniently located, approximately 1 hour drive from Columbus, Portsmouth, Athens, Jeffersonville, or the Buckeye Lake area. So come on down to get delicious apples for all your fall recipes, that famous Laurelville Apple Cider for those fall drink mixes, and amazing Apple Cider Slushies. The leaves are beginning to turn, the weather in SE Ohio is beautiful, why not put the kids in the car, (yes, the teens too) even stop by and pick up the grandparents and make memories on this fall drive.
While visiting the Apple House, check out these locations ALL located within approx. 10 miles of the Apple House. If you are not wanting to spend the entire day in the more well known Hocking Hills Parks or are not looking to hike to the caves; below are Quick Stops you can add, along your way to the Laurelville Apple House. Featuring Amish locations, scenic views, country charm, and a local winery… Pick your favorite destination points or have an adventure finding them all.
1. LAURELVILLE APPLE HOUSE – 16181 Pike Street, Laurelville, OH
Since 1911 Laurelville Fruit Farm has been offering in season Apples and Peaches and related products. With a variety of apples sold, the Honey Crisps are my families favorite, they are usually available mid-August until mid-September and do sell out fast. There is a large chart on the inside wall to help you decide which variety is suggested for how you intend to use the apples. The staff and family is always very attentive and helpful. I always buy a few jars of Apple Butter it is naturally sweet and heavenly on warm rolls. Cider, Apples, and Apple Butter make great gift baskets for your friends and family or fall events.
(hours: daily 8a – 5p, August 1st – December 24th)
2. Ridge Inn – 16178 Pike Street, Laurelville, OH
A great place to start off the day with Breakfast, if you are lucky Jo will still have some of her yummy, hand made Donuts. Watching that waist line,,, try the interesting Hippie Hash. Just across the street from the Apple House.
(current hours: Mon-Thurs 8a-8p, Fri-Sat 8a-9p, Sun 8a-5p Winter hours: Mon-Sat 8a-8p & Sun 8a-5p)
3. Hocking Hills Visitor Center – 16197 Pike Street, Laurelville, OH
Located in the same parking area as the Apple House, you will see the Hocking Hills Visitor Center – stop in for brochures to plan your next Hocking Hills trip, maps and interesting local information.
(current fall hours: Fri-Sat 10a-5p, Sun 11a-5p, Mon 10a-3p, Thurs 2p-5p, closed Tues-Wed)
4. Chapel Ridge Rd (scenic drive)- South Bloomingville, OH
I enjoy the beauty of this road. While the Road leads to many of the Cabin Rental locations, it is away from most of the normal Hocking Hills attractions and traffic. It feels like you are all alone in the middle of woods on a scenic drive. SR 56 east to South Bloomingville, at the stop sign turn right, to stay on 56, then Chapel Ridge Rd will be your first left. It leads to SR 374 and the Fire Tower (see below). Once you get to the Fire Tower, however, I suggest going back the same way you came, stopping at the Getaway Cabins Office/Gift Shop, then watching for a gravel road that leads off on your right. This narrow gravel road is about a mile or two long, and leads to SR 664. It whines thru the forest and has breathtaking views. It is on public property and State Forest hiking trails cross the road. From one direction it is posted local traffic only and from the other direction a sign reads No trailers allowed. This road is to be handled with caution – No guard rails could make it dangerous if you are not careful, or your vehicle is well equipped to handle the necessary breaking and steep inclines or in the event of inclement weather. If you go, take it SLOW! The curves are sharp and the gravel is loose, but the views of the peaceful woods are very pretty. At 664, turn left it will take you back into South Bloomingville.
5. Ash Cave Fire Tower – corner of SR 374 & Chapel Ridge Rd
Constructed in 1934, this 80′ tall, Fire Tower was recently open to the public. Again, a little known sight seeing spot in the area. Sight seers or the energetic can climb the stairs to the top of the tower. However, if, like me, your knees have no desire to climb the stairs to the top, there is a lovely bench nearby to view the tower. This area closes to the public at dark, and you climb at your own risk. Again, use caution and common sense if attempting or allowing your children or family members to make this climb.
6. Adelphi Opera House / Town Hall – 11987 Main Street, Adelphi, OH
Newly restored Town Hall has a shelter house and new playground in the back, so let the kids out to stretch their legs. The shelter house makes a nice picnic area also. The building is not often open to the public, however worth a drive by if you enjoy seeing nicely restored local buildings. It can be rented for weddings and events as well.
7. Hillside Country Store – 10244 SR 180, Laurelville
Amish owned and operated country store. Featuring bulk, bagged staples, a full service deli, baked good, gifts and porch furniture. There is wide variety of cooking and baking needs, offering many spices and unique ingredients. Fresh, in season fruits and vegetables and try the soft serve ice cream, for a true creamy treat. Why travel to Amish County – enjoy the Laurelville Amish experience.
(hours: Mon-Sat 8a-6p, closed Sun)
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8. Big Woods Woodworking -15774 SR 56 E, Laurelville, OH 43135
Amish woodworking business & store offering log style rustic furniture and home decor items for your home, outdoor space or office. There are several items pre-made in the showroom and you can have something designed and built specifically to suit. Located just outside Laurelville, call to make an appointment or see the typical working hours below.
(hours: Mon, Thurs, Fri 9a-5p, Sat 9a-12 noon)
9. Tarlton Adelphi Road – Runs between 56E and SR 159, Laurelville, OH 43135
Amish families in the area live along Tarlton Adelphi Road, this is also home of the local Amish School. Down Tarlton Adelphi Rd and the adjoining roads, you will pass Amish homes and farms. Many of the homes offer items for sale, produce, eggs, baked goods, gourd bird houses, hand sewn items, and hand made wood structures such as sheds & playhouses on occasion. Signs are typically posted of the items offered or items are set up in the yard. From time to time you may also see a buggy or wagon set up in town selling their goods. Most do not offer Sunday sales. Laurelville Amish are not as commercialized as in the tourist areas of Holmes County, please be respectful and courteous to our local families. Drive Carefully and watch for Amish Buggies and walkers.
10. Manchester Hill Winery – 13160 Tarlton Rd, Circleville, OH 43113
Stop in and do a wine tasting. A family owned winery offers a range of wines and ciders from local and region sourced fruit. Manchester Hill has wine slushies for those hot days or try a sweet iced wine for sweet treat. The small cozy atmosphere and welcoming staff makes this a great place to visit. Sit and relax on the porch with a glass of wine and cheese plate, or purchase a few bottles from the affordable selection to take home and enjoy, as a memento from your day’s adventure.
(hours: Wed-Thurs 12 noon – 7p, Fri-Sat 12 noon – 9p, closed Sun-Tues)
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