If you are traveling southwest Ohio I recommend embarking on a little trip to Ripley, Ohio.  Ripley sits on the Ohio River east of Cincinnati.  It is a town rich in history.  One of the most popular spots to visit in Ripley is the John Rankin House.  It is a national historic landmark.  John Rankin was a Presbyterian minister and abolitionist who is estimated to have helped over 2000 slaves escape to freedom.

The little house is estimated to have been built in 1826, making it over 200 years old.  The grounds are natural & beautiful providing a fantastic view of the Ohio River.

Parking is free, but hours are limited, so check the museum schedule before heading out. Cost is around $5 per person to tour the house.

After overlooking the Ohio River from the John Rankin House, we couldn’t help but get a closer look on the River Walk along Front Street in Ripley, Ohio.  We recommend a stop Rockin’ Robin’s Soda Shoppe to get ice cream and watch the boats on the river.

The Parker House  is also on Front Street, Ripley, Ohio.  Parker was a former slave, inventor, and abolitionist.  Another house on Front Street is known as the Signal House.  It was owned by Vic and Betsy Billingsley and is where the attic lantern signaled Reverend Rankin that it was safe to cross the river leading slaves to freedom.    

If you want something a little more filling Cohearts Riverhouse is also on Front Street, Ripley, Ohio.  My daughter and I have eaten here and enjoyed it.  The food and service were good.

Another dining option a little further east up the river is Moyer Vineyard Winery and Restaurant .  My daughter and I ate here a few weeks ago.  What we really enjoyed here was the restaurant’s setting on the river.  I bought a bottle of River Valley Red, but haven’t tried it yet because I’m waiting to have someone to share it with 🙂 .   It is described as a soft, mellow, moderating dry red wine and is made from grapes on the property.  I’ll update you after I’ve tried it.

Needing a place to stay?  Brown’s Motel in Aberdeen, Ohio is modest & inexpensive.  It’s right across the river from Maysville, Kentucky which is also a historic little town (and home of Rosemary Clooney) worth exploring.  I’ll tell you more about it another time.

Have you ever been to Ripley,Ohio?  Tell us about your favorite place to visit when there.