Yellow Springs, Ohio is a fun spot to visit for the day or on the weekend. The hippie town has many fun things to do that appeal to a wide range of tourists. Hiking, walking, shopping, eating, and drinking are some of the best things to do in Yellow Springs. Let us help you plan your trip to Yellow Springs, Ohio by giving you a list of the best things to do there.
Frequently Asked Questions about Yellow Springs, Ohio
Before we start our list of things to do in Yellow Springs, let’s talk about some facts and questions that people often ask.
Where is Ohio’s Yellow Springs?
Yellow Springs is in Greene County, which is in the southwestern part of Ohio. The town is east of Dayton and north of Cincinnati. It’s not too hard to get to from Ohio’s big cities.
What does Yellow Springs mean?
The name of the town comes from a natural spring. Iron-rich water in the area has made the rocks yellow (or rusty orange), which is how the name came about. A short walk leads to the Ohio Yellow Springs, which gives the park its name. We talk more about this hike in our Yellow Springs to-do list.
What is the history of Yellow Springs, Ohio?
It’s interesting to learn about Yellow Springs, OH’s past. The town was founded in 1825 by a group of people who wanted to make a perfect community. Many people say that the community failed, but it was the start of the hippie roots that are still present in the town today.
When the Little Miami Railroad was finished in the middle of the 1800s. The road made Yellow Springs more well-known by connecting it to Cincinnati and Columbus. Antioch College, a school with liberal political views, was formed in the village in 1850.
You can learn more about the town’s past by going to the website of the Yellow Springs Historical Society.
How many people live in Yellow Springs, Ohio?
The 2010 census says that there are about 3,500 people living in Yellow Springs. It’s big enough to be called a town, even though many people call it “The Village of Yellow Springs, Ohio.
Any well-known people from Yellow Springs, OH?
There are a few famous people who live in Yellow Springs. In the early 2000s, famous comic Dave Chappelle and his family moved to a farm in Yellow Springs.
The town is where actor John Lithgow grew up, but he no longer lives there. His work has lasted for decades. His dad began the Shakespeare Festival at Antioch College where he worked.
Any well-known people from Yellow Springs, OH?
There are a few famous people who live in Yellow Springs. In the early 2000s, famous comic Dave Chappelle and his family moved to a farm in Yellow Springs.
The town is where actor John Lithgow grew up, but he no longer lives there. His work has lasted for decades. His dad began the Shakespeare Festival at Antioch College where he worked.
15 of the best things to do in Yellow Springs, Ohio
We now know some facts about Yellow Springs. Let’s go to our list of Things To Do: Yellow Springs! We list the best places to see and things to do to help you plan the best day trip or weekend.
We have a list of things to do in Yellow Springs, Ohio, and at the end of the piece, there is also a useful Yellow Springs Map.
#1 Put on your hiking shoes and head to Yellow Springs
Unquestionably, hiking is one of the best activities in Yellow Springs, so don’t forget to pack some shoes for the trails! Hiking is available in two parks in Yellow Springs: Clifton Gorge and Glen Helen. There are a number of easy treks among the hiking paths, ranging in difficulty.
Climbing Mount Helen
There are about 20 miles of amazing trails in Glen Helen Nature Preserve. The easiest hiking routes to get from downtown are in Glen Helen, Yellow Springs, Ohio, however hikers soon find themselves in a natural setting.
One of Yellow Springs, Ohio’s top hiking routes is the Inman Trail at Glen Helen. The 1.2-mile loop hike is easy to moderate and offers views of the well-known Yellow Spring and The Cascades waterfall.
Private and nonprofit, Glen Helen is a park. Parking is $5, with proceeds going towards park maintenance. Visit the park website for further details and maps of the hiking trails.
Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve is a small park with excellent hiking options in Yellow Springs, Ohio, despite its small size. The park has a National Natural Landmark registration.
The path traces the course of the Little Miami River through the breathtaking gorge. It is understandable why the finest place to see the distinctive geological canyons in Yellow Springs, Ohio, is from the hiking trails of Clifton Gorge.
With three miles of crisscrossing paths, guests can customise a course to fit their level of fitness. We decided to use the lower Gorge Trail to return after taking the Rim Trail to the Footbridge. Enthusiastic hikers might continue their journey into the nearby John Bryan State Park.
Parking at Clifton Gorge is free of charge, although it is a small lot that gets crowded rapidly on weekends. Visit the Nature Preserve website to learn more.
Tip: The Indian Mound Reserve, which is located outside of Cedarville, is another location for hiking close to Yellow Springs, Ohio. An eight-mile network of trails winds through breathtaking scenery, past waterfalls and Native American earthworks. Beans-n-Cream is a great option if you want to have lunch in the Cedarville area!
#2 Go for a Walk in Yellow Springs’ Downtown
Investigating the downtown area of Yellow Springs, Ohio is one of the best things to do as well. You can truly sense the unique atmosphere that the town is so well renowned for when taking a stroll through the city centre. The downtown area of Yellow Springs is home to many of the top stores and eateries in the community; we will discuss these in more detail later.
Starting your visit of the city centre on Xenia Avenue (Route 68), the main road, is a terrific idea. Having said that, there are still two more amazing locations in Yellow Springs that you shouldn’t miss: Walnut Street and Dayton Street.
Tip: Take advantage of this free self-guided walking tour to discover more about the town and its historic structures.
#3 Examine the Items in Yellow Springs Stores
Shopping in Yellow Springs, Ohio is very enjoyable because of the wide variety of unique stores that line the downtown area. Yellow Springs offers a dizzying selection of distinctive stores where tourists can purchase locally produced goods, handcrafted items, and sentimental presents and souvenirs.
That being stated, you ought to include House of Ravenwood to your list of places to shop in Yellow Springs! One of the most interesting shops in Yellow Springs, Ohio, the metaphysical gift shop offers a wide selection of witchcraft and black magic supplies in addition to healing crystals and fragrant incense.
Tip: The Yellow Springs Toy Company, Dark Star Books Comics Store, Yellow Springs Pottery Shop, and Toxic Beauty Records Store are more must-see stores in Yellow Springs. Visit Village Artisans Co-Op as well, where you may find gifts and artwork created by regional artists.
#4 Visit Yellow Springs Brewery and Sip Locally
Without a doubt, one of the most enjoyable things to do in Yellow Springs, Ohio, is to sip local beer! The Boat Show IPA is one of the great beers produced by the newly created Yellow Springs Brewery, which opened its doors in 2013. The taproom has a warm, friendly, industrial vibe, and they have an outdoor patio for those sunny summer days.
Their production facility for mixed fermentation is located at the south end of town in the Yellow Springs Brewery Barrel Room, which is their second location. On the weekends, they provide pints of freshly brewed beer to guests.
Tip: Those who are thirsty can enjoy local beers at Trail Town Brewing, another brewery in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Added bonus: Miguel’s Tacos, a beloved neighbourhood Mexican restaurant well-known for its Al Pastor, shares space with the brewpub.
#5 Visit Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm and Sample Their Cheese
Young’s Jersey Dairy was founded in 1869, and since then, it has only grown and improved! The Yellow Springs farm specialises in dairy products, such as their incredibly delicious cheese curds and thick, creamy handcrafted ice cream.
We went because of the fresh dairy products, but Young’s has a lot of fun activities for visitors in Yellow Springs. The Dairy Store restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner to patrons. The family fun centre is one of the top kid-friendly attractions in Yellow Springs, Ohio, and features a miniature golf course, batting cages, and slides.
In addition, some of Yellow Springs’ greatest events are held at Young’s Dairy Farm. We adore the fall festival, where you can select your own pumpkins and ride on waggons. See the farm’s calendar for a list of forthcoming activities.
Tip: Young’s is a functioning dairy farm where guests are welcome to mingle with the animals. Watch the farmers milk the cows, feed the goats, and stroke the pigs!
#6 Shop at Peifer Orchards for Fresh Produce
The ideal location to purchase fresh produce grown locally is Peifer Orchards. Seasonal fruits and vegetables are available at the Yellow Springs farmers market, which is open from June through December. Additionally, locally baked foods, jams, and maple syrup are available for purchase.
Apple picking at Peifer Orchards is one of the top things to do in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Picking apples is a wonderful activity that is available to families, groups and couples exclusively on autumn weekends.
Tip: Peifer Orchards has amazing fresh pressed apple cider, but it sells out quickly, so be sure to get some while it’s still available!
#7 Unwind at Station Park in Yellow Springs
At the intersection of Xenia Avenue and Dayton Street, the Yellow Springs Station is located in the centre of the town. Replica depot was built with parts from the actual station from the 1800s that stood nearby. These days, it has free public restrooms and the Chamber of Commerce.
Sometimes referred to as Hilda M. Rahn Park, the lawn that encircles the location is used as a public green space. A midday picnic would be perfect at one of the few tables sheltered by trees in this small park in Yellow Springs, Ohio.
Tip: The Xenia Avenue deli Current Cuisine has excellent made-to-order sandwiches that are perfect for a picnic!
#8 Take a stand in the sunflower field at Yellow Springs.
One of the greatest sights in Yellow Springs is the Tecumseh Sunflower Field, which is also completely free to view.
Situated on numerous acres on Whitehall Farm, across from Peifer Orchards on Route 68, is the sunflower field near Yellow Springs, Ohio. It is open to visitors to stroll among the sunflower fields, snap pictures, and take in the breathtaking scenery. Remember that a family resides on the land and that the area is a working farm, so please show them some courtesy.
In Ohio, sunflowers bloom in late summer or early fall, and their brief bloom lasts for roughly two weeks.
Tip: The Tecumseh Land Trust includes the Tecumseh Sunflower Field near Yellow Springs, Ohio. Visit their Facebook page to get the most recent information about the field and the dates when the flowers will bloom.
#9 Village Flower Farm: Pick Your Own Flowers
Village Flower Farm gives guests the chance to pick their own bouquets and take a stroll through flower fields, all in the name of spreading happiness. In addition to being a romantic pastime, it may be an enjoyable get-together for friends and family in Yellow Springs, Ohio.
There are specific seasons in the spring, summer, and autumn when visitors can gather flowers.
Tip: For information on opening times and expectations, see the farm’s website.
#10 Take a ride on the Yellow Springs Bicycle Path.
A 78-mile asphalt multipurpose trail, the Little Miami Scenic Trail passes directly through the town. In Yellow Springs, biking, rollerblading, and strolling along the route are among the best outdoor activities.
The Corner Cone is an excellent location to rent a bike in Yellow Springs if you don’t own one. Rentals may be available at the Village Cyclery, a bicycle business in Yellow Springs.
Tip: Visit the official trail website to find detailed information and maps.
#11 Go to Antioch College
Antioch College boasts a stunning campus with old red brick buildings and an intriguing history. Horace Mann, an education reformer, directed the politically liberal Antioch College when it was first founded in 1850. Through its co-op programs, the little institution has always been dedicated to providing an innovative education.
The college was among the first in history to adopt a position in favor of racial and gender equality in higher education. Currently, there are roughly 100 students enrolled at the private liberal arts institution in Yellow Springs, Ohio.
Tip: Notable alumni of Antioch College include civil rights activist Coretta Scott King and Nobel Prize laureate Mario Capecchi.
#12 Sample and swirl at a winery in Yellow Springs
One of the enjoyable activities in Yellow Springs, Ohio, is to spend an afternoon swirling and sipping locally-produced wine. There are plenty of opportunities for this!
Interesting wines and moonshine are produced by the relatively young local distillery in Yellow Springs, Tuck-n-Red’s Spirits and Wines. Their straightforward, kind demeanor makes guests feel at home.
Small batch wines are produced at the neighbouring Enon winery, Brandeberry Winery. With a focus on fruit wines, the blackberry variety is regarded as the best! The laid-back vineyard welcomes guests to hang out in its large outside area, where live music is often held.
Tip: Located in downtown Yellow Springs, Emporium Wines and Underdog Café is a well-liked community hub that serves up regional wine and holds wine tastings.
#13 Go across the Covered Bridge on Hyde Road
For anyone seeking interesting free activities in Yellow Springs, Ohio, the Richard Eastman Covered Bridge on Hyde Road is a must-see. The Little Miami Scenic Trail is crossed by the red, one-lane bridge.
The covered bridge, with its classic appearance, is actually relatively new. In 2014, the bridge was erected as a tribute to Richard Eastman, the former Greene County Engineer who dedicated a great deal of his career to preserving the region’s covered bridges.
Tip: For a better perspective, descend the stairs next to the bridge to the bike path!
#14 Visit the Little Art Theatre to See a Film
Are you looking for something to do this weekend in Yellow Springs? Visit the cinema! A modest local movie theatre with an eclectic lineup is called The Little Art Theatre. They also provide entertaining events related to the movies, in addition to cinematic shows and documentaries. In addition to cocktails, wine, and beer, moviegoers can enjoy buttered popcorn during their stay.
Tip: Be sure to check the movie times online prior to your trip if visiting the Little Art Theatre is on your list of things to do in Yellow Springs!
#15 Unwind in a Lavender Field
Sunset Ridge Lavender Farm is one of the cool points of interest close to Yellow Springs. Situated in the lavender fields, the farm welcomes guests, about 4 miles west of Young’s Jersey Dairy. Visitors can collect their own lavender bunches, take amusing pictures in the lavender field and unwind on the veranda while sipping refreshing glasses of lavender lemonade.
Guests visiting Yellow Springs can also sign up for yoga sessions at the farm! Visit their website for all the information.
Tip: Picking lavender costs a modest amount and is only permitted during opening hours. Despite this, visiting the lavender fields is one of the free activities in Yellow Springs.
Advice for Travelling to Yellow Springs, Ohio
We have a few more suggestions to help you organize your trip now that you know things to do in Yellow Springs, Ohio. We’ll include the top hotels in Yellow Springs, directions to get there, and a useful map of the area’s attractions!
Top Accommodation Options in Yellow Springs, Ohio
You could easily spend a long weekend at Yellow Springs because there are so many things to do there. As a result, you should definitely look for a hotel in Yellow Springs, Ohio. Due to its tiny size, there aren’t many hotel options; nevertheless, there are holiday rentals that are close to camping areas.
The Mills Park Hotel Yellow Springs
The most well-liked hotel in the area is the Mills Park Hotel, which debuted in 2016 and is located right in the center of downtown. This roughly 30-room motel in Yellow Springs was designed to resemble a house from the 19th century.
Jailhouse Suites
The Jailhouse Inn and Suites, one of Yellow Springs’ distinctive lodging options, is housed in the town’s historic jailhouse, which was built in 1878. The clean, roomy, and historic Yellow Springs Inn offers kitchenettes.
Breakfast and Bed in Grinnell Mill
A few rooms in a renovated old mill are available at the Grinnell Mill B&B, another unique hotel option in Yellow Springs, Ohio. There is a continental breakfast offered, and the room is tidy and welcoming.
Close to Yellow Springs is Clifton Garden Cabin.
We were shocked that Yellow Springs did not provide more cabin alternatives. But if you’re searching for a cabin close to Yellow Springs, Ohio, ask if the Clifton Garden Cabin has any openings. Travelers have nothing but praise for the charming lodgings at this renovated barn, which is located approximately 3 miles from the town center!
Yellow Springs, Ohio: A Camping Destination
John Bryan State Park is the ideal location in Yellow Springs for camping. There are sixty campsites in the area, but only ten have electricity. Visit the Ohio Camping Reservation Website to learn more.
How to Travel to Yellow Springs
Yellow Springs is reasonably accessible by automobile because it is close to a number of important routes. Find the quickest route from your current location to Yellow Springs, Ohio by using this pin-drop navigation tool. The approximate driving time between Yellow Springs and neighboring cities is provided below.
Ohio – Yellow Springs – Dayton: The trip from Dayton to Yellow Springs is roughly eighteen miles long and takes about thirty minutes.
Cincinnati-Yellow Springs: The trip from Cincinnati to Yellow Springs is approximately 70 miles long and takes one hour and 15 minutes.
Columbus-Yellow Springs: It’s an easy drive across I-70 to get to Yellow Springs from Columbus. Driving from Columbus to Yellow Springs is roughly 55 miles long and takes approximately one hour.
Cleveland and Yellow Springs are separated by 195 miles, which can be traveled in around three hours by car.
What to Bring on Your Trip to Yellow Springs, Ohio
Finally, we have some packing advice for your vacation to Yellow Springs, OH. Our Travel Packing website has a comprehensive packing list as well as additional tips.
Cozy Sneakers
Wearing comfy shoes is recommended whether you’re shopping or hiking in Yellow Springs! These are comfy trainers that are great for hiking and exploring new places. For day outings, Kris likes to wear Merrell Trail Shoes. Use our advice and recommendations to get the Best Travel Shoes.
Travel Camera There is so much to photograph at Yellow Springs! Use a genuine travel camera to capture the area’s natural splendor. We use a Canon Rebel with an 18–135mm lens for our travels. It is an excellent low-cost DSLR camera for vacationers and produces amazing pictures!
Day Pack
The ideal way to explore Yellow Springs is with a handy daypack. You can keep all of your necessities, including a water bottle, spare set of keys for your car, and a camera, organised with a well-made day bag.
Ohio’s Yellow Springs The weather
Yellow Springs, Ohio, offers a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities. The summers are hot and muggy and the winters are frigid, as is characteristic of the Midwest. Since the weather is perfect for hiking and other outdoor activities, we believe that the best times to visit are in the summer and early fall.
