Ohio is home to numerous abandoned sites that now stand as decaying relics of their former glory. Once vibrant attractions and busy production facilities, these locations are now often shrouded in greenery and slowly succumbing to the effects of time. Many require a keen eye to spot, and even then, accessibility can pose challenges. Here are nine intriguing abandoned places waiting to be discovered across the state:
1. Geauga Lake Amusement Park
The era of thrill rides and water attractions has ended at what was once a bustling amusement park in Aurora. By around 2008, most of the remaining rides and attractions had been dismantled and sold off. However, it wasn’t until 2020 that plans were announced for the site’s redevelopment into a residential area. Just think about all the cherished moments that families created in this beloved place! The former amusement park and the iconic blue waters of Geauga Lake can be found in Aurora, Ohio.
2. SeaWorld
The adjacent park to Geauga Lake in Aurora has also ceased operations. Originally a popular destination since the 1970s, Six Flags acquired this landmark from SeaWorld early in the 2000s, later operating it as Wildwater Kingdom under the Cedar Fair brand. Over the years, nature gradually took over the area, but in 2020, the site was earmarked for new development.
3. Helltown
The small community of Boston Township in Summit County has earned the nickname “Helltown” because of its eerie reputation. This area is shrouded in legends, featuring unexplained hauntings, deserted homes that were vacated when the government took control of the land to establish a national park, and reports of chemical spills and strange, mutated creatures. As you navigate through Boston Township, Ohio 44141, keep an eye out for these abandoned sites hidden among the trees—each telling a story steeped in mystery and intrigue.
4. Chippewa Lake Amusement Park
This forsaken amusement park in Medina County is a nostalgic echo of summer days gone by. Countless cherished moments were created amidst its now-decaying roller coasters and other attractions. In 2020, the promise of revitalization emerged when it was revealed that this cherished site would transform into a community park. While it may take several years before the park is ready for visitors, soon, residents and guests alike will have the opportunity to explore this new space near Chippewa Lake, OH 44215.
5. Moonville
The abandoned settlement of Moonville in Vinton County has been uninhabited since the 1940s. However, remnants of the town still exist, featuring the famously haunted Moonville Tunnel. This historic site is located at Hope-Moonville Rd, McArthur, OH 45651.
6. Roseville Prison
What’s more chilling than an abandoned prison? It’s a trick question—there’s really nothing quite like it. This eerie location has been left largely untouched since its closure in 1966 and is now privately owned.
You can find this haunting site along OH-93 in Roseville, Ohio, 43777.
7. Champion Electric
The deserted electric company structure is located close to the remnants of the historic gristmill at the summit of Brandywine Falls in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. You can discover it near the address 8176 Brandywine Rd, Sagamore Hills Township, OH 44067.
8. Mother Goose Land
Once a vibrant children’s playground, City Field Park in Canton has transformed over the years but still holds remnants of its past. Among the few structures that remain is Willy The Whale, a nostalgic feature from the former Mother Goose Land. Visitors can explore City Field Park, located in Canton, OH 44702, and catch a glimpse of its historical charm.
9. Canal Locks
Across Ohio, remnants of the historic Ohio Canal can still be seen, particularly in the form of its old locks. While the canal itself is no longer operational, the Towpath Trail offers a scenic hiking route that stretches across parts of the state, allowing visitors to connect with its rich history. A great starting point for this exploration is the Ohio & Erie Canal Reservation, located at 4524 E 49th St, Cleveland, OH 44125.
Many of the enchanting abandoned sites in Ohio have been revitalized by both nature and human creativity. Some of these once-neglected places have embraced new purposes, while others are on the verge of transformation. Do you recall any of the former amusement parks mentioned in this article? Feel free to share your memories in the comments!