9 Unique Attractions Along Ohio's Windy 9
Ohio’s Windy 9 is an exhilarating collection of motorcycling roads out of Athens, OH. These nine roads offer something for everyone, whether you enjoy a relaxed, meandering cruise or a heart-pounding romp through challenging technical curves.
But motorcycling isn’t just about the roads. The things you see along the ride make a huge contribution to the ultimate touring experience.
Fortunately, Ohio’s roadsides are littered with fascinating sights to gawk at. Here are nine unique attractions along the routes of Ohio’s Windy 9 you won’t find anywhere else.
Rim of the World—Big Muskie Bucket
The Miner's Memorial Park in Jesse Owens State Park is a monument to Ohio’s mining heritage and the achievements of American Electric Power and its subsidiary, Central Ohio Coal Company. One of the main attractions at the memorial is Big Muskie’s Bucket.
Big Muskie was the largest dragline ever built. The 220-cubic-yard, 240-ton bucket is a true engineering marvel.
Due to the massive size of the machine, Big Muskie had to be built on site. Starting in 1967, more than 300 railcars and 250 trucks hauled the necessary pieces to the Muskingum Mine.
It took a team of engineers more than two years to erect Big Muskie. When completed, the massive machine stood 240 feet tall and stretched to a length of 487 feet.
Find it at 4470 SR 78, McConnelsville, OH.
Southern Dip—Mothman Museum and Mothman Statue
On November 15, 1966, two Point Pleasant, WV, couples ran into a hulking, monstrous being with moth-like wings and glowing red eyes. This first encounter with Mothman sparked an enduring local legend that has since been embedded into general American popular culture.
This museum is devoted to Mothman, featuring press clippings, documents, and memorabilia. One of the collection’s highlights are the original, handwritten police reports detailing that first Mothman sighting.
Outside and across the street from the museum, you’ll find the famous Mothman statue. Although it’s something of a tradition to smack the statue’s well-sculpted posterior, it has damaged the landmark—so keep your hands to yourself.
Find it at 400 Main St, Point Pleasant, WV.
Hocking Hills Nipper—Hocking Hills State Park
Located in southeastern Ohio, the Hocking Hills State Park is acclaimed both nationally and internationally. This famed sate park features beautiful towering cliffs, thrilling waterfalls, and deep, hemlock-shaded gorges.
Hikers and nature lovers have plenty to enjoy in this awe-inspiring park. There are fishing and hunting opportunities, while the John Glenn Astronomy Park caters to stargazers.
Find it at 19852 SR 664, Logan, OH.
Lazy Rivers—Tablertown People of Color Museum
The Tablertown People of Color Museum is a non-profit social enterprise dedicated to preserving cultural artifacts and stories to ensure that the history of people of color is represented accurately. The museum’s goal is to break down stereotypes and increase pride in family lineage.
Curator David Butcher traces his family back to Michael and Hannah Tabler, the white son of a Virginia plantation owner, and his wife, who was formerly enslaved by his father. Michael married and emancipated Hannah and their six children, and moved his family to Athens County around 1830.
David wants to ensure that his family’s history, reflective of our shared and collective history, continues to be shared.
Find it at 9035 SR 329, Stewart, OH, (740) 590-6368. Entrance by appointment only.
Zaleski Zipper—Hope Furnace Ruins and Moonville Tunnel
Although the roar of iron furnaces no longer echoes through the hills of Vinton County, the Hope Furnace at Lake Hope State Park is a reminder of days gone by. Situated in the northern reaches of Ohio's Hanging Rock Iron Region, right on the Zaleski Zipper route, Lake Hope State Park reflects the rich history of much of southeastern Ohio.
Today, the Hope Furnace chimney and some of the foundation are all that remain of the structure. A historical marker at the site describes Ohio's Hanging Rock Iron Region.
After visiting the Hope Furnace, head on over to the Moonville Tunnel near the Zaleski State Forest. This is one of the few reminders that the ghost town of Moonville once existed.
Despite being a ghost town, Moonville remains well known due to its reputation of being haunted. Believers say that ghosts of railroad workers mowed down by a train still wave their lanterns in the abandoned tunnel.
Today, visitors can hike portions of this abandoned railroad line, which are being converted into walking and biking trails.
Find the Hope Furnace Ruins at 27331 SR 278, McArthur, OH, and the Moonville Tunnel on Hope-Moonville Rd, McArtchur, OH.
Pioneer Pass—Mound Cemetery and Peoples Mortuary Museum
The Mound Cemetery carries a large amount of symbolism on its gravestones. Some of it is apparent, while others hold hidden meaning.
Discover interesting grave markings hidden throughout this famous burial ground. The cemetery surrounds a 2,000-year-old Adena Mound and has the largest concentration of Revolutionary War veterans buried on its grounds.
Afterward, exploring the history of the undertakers’ profession at the nearby Peoples Mortuary Museum. The tour can shed a different light on what funeral directors do.
Just ask any of the staff at Cawley & Peoples Funeral Home and they’ll be pleased to give you a tour of the museum. The museum is located behind the Marietta Chapel. Call ahead to ensure there is someone available to guide you.
Find the Mound Cemetery at 5th & Scammel St, Marietta, OH, and the Peoples Mortuary Museum at 408 Front St, Marietta, OH, (740) 525-1112.
Pomeroy Dash—Historic Main Street in Pomeroy, OH
Tucked between the hills and the banks of the Ohio River sits the town of Pomeroy, OH. Here, you will discover a vibrant community, unique experiences, talented artisans, one-of-a-kind businesses, and an epic view of the river.
Pomeroy’s history stretches back to the first years of the 19th century. The town’s name stems from Samuel Wyllys Pomeroy, who—as is tradition in Ohio—established a coal mining operation in 1830. Today, Pomeroy’s Main St features the aforementioned quaint stores and restaurants in a beautiful riverside setting.
Black Diamond Run—Nelsonville Public Square and Hocking Valley Scenic Railway
In Nelsonville, you’ll find two attractions worth stopping for in close proximity to each other. First, Nelsonville’s Historic Public Square was once the center of activity for Nelsonville and its surrounding coal mining communities.
The Public Square is easy to get to from US. 33 as it runs through Nelsonville. From the north, take a left at the traffic light at the Rocky Outdoor Gear Store—from the south, take a right at the light. The Public Square is just a short walk from the Rocky Outdoor Gear Store and the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway.
The Hocking Valley Scenic Railway is a non-profit organization. Primarily operated by volunteer members, it is dedicated to the restoration, operation, and maintenance of historical railroad equipment for education and entertainment.
Since its founding in 1972, the Hocking Valley Scenic Railway has operated historical train rides out of Nelsonville and restored numerous historical locomotives, passenger cars, and more.
Find it at 33 W Canal St, Nelsonville, OH.
Triple Nickel—Port 37
If your stomach starts rumbling or your fuel gauge moves toward E on the Triple Nickel, don’t worry. Port 37 is a fuel station with a deli, convenience store, and a variety of Triple Nickel (SR 555) souvenirs.
It is located about halfway between South Zanesville and Chesterhill, at the SR 555 and SR 37 junction. Don’t be surprised if you run into your new best riding buddy at this quintessential rural gas stop.
Find it at 10840 SR 37, Malta, OH.