As we continue with Ohio Tourism Week—Nestled in the heart of the Simon Kenton Corridor, the village of West Liberty offers a unique blend of rich history, family-friendly attractions, and outdoor recreation.
A Village with a Story
Established in 1817, West Liberty began with a gristmill on the Mad River and quickly grew into a thriving community.
It became an incorporated village in 1834.
The town’s past is rooted in Native American history, particularly the Shawnee settlements known as the Mac-A-Cheek towns.
A key chapter in West Liberty’s history is the great fire of May 13, 1880, which destroyed much of the original downtown.
Today, the event is commemorated each spring with “The Annual Fire Sale,” a village-wide sidewalk and garage sale- this year on May 17th.
Places to Explore
Flag of Stone Memorial:
Located in West Liberty Town Hall at 201 North Detroit Street, the six-foot granite and tile flag was created by Florida artist Roberto Torres Sr. to honor the victims and heroes of 9/11.
The memorial was brought to the village through local community efforts and includes a display of photos documenting its creation.
Lions Club Park and Splash Pad:
Situated along Onion Creek, the park features ball fields, picnic shelters, horseshoe pits, and a walking track.
A free Spray and Play Splash Pad opened in 2020 and is available to the public from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The park is also home to the Labor Day Festival and youth racing events.
Marie’s Candies:
A local favorite since 1956, Marie’s Candies offers over 80 varieties of handmade chocolates.
Housed in a restored train depot at 311 Zanesfield Road, the shop is known for its friendly service and free samples.
Ohio Caverns:
Just east of town, the Ohio Caverns are known as “America’s Most Colorful Caverns.”
Visitors can explore stunning underground formations and enjoy a 35-acre surface park with picnic areas and a playground.
Mac-O-Chee Castle:
Mac-O-Chee Castle was built by journalist, politician, and diplomat Donn Piatt for his first wife, Louise.
The towering landmark in the rural countryside is believed to have been designed by John L. Smithmeyer, who was the initial superintendent in the building of the Library of Congress.
Mac-O-Chee Castle was completed in 1881 and was designed as a grand residence of the Piatt family, who were well known in society.
They spared no expense in creating a home that reflected their wealth and status.
Mac-O-Chee Castle is characterized by its Victorian Gothic Revival style, featuring ornate details, turrets, and pointed arches, which were popular in the 19th century.
The castle is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
On October 19, 2019, Mac-O-Chee Castle was purchased by the Cole family in order to preserve the historic landmark and keep it accessible to the community and public for decades to come.
As one of Ohio’s most iconic landmarks, Mac-O-Chee Castle continues to captivate visitors with its fascinating history, stunning architecture, and timeless beauty, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy and the rich heritage of the region.
Learn more HERE.
Piatt Castle Mac-A-Cheek:
Mac-A-Cheek is located one mile east of West Liberty on State Route 245.
This limestone mansion was built in the 1800s as a home for the family of Abram S. Piatt.
The castle provides visitors with the opportunity to learn about their family life and heritage.
There you can view original collections of natural history and Native American, and military artifacts.
Learn more HERE.
Simon Kenton Trail:
This 17-mile extension of the multi-county trail system runs from Urbana through West Liberty to Bellefontaine, ideal for biking, walking, and enjoying the surrounding landscape.
From historic landmarks to outdoor adventures, West Liberty welcomes visitors to experience the best of both past and present.
Upcoming Events
- Annual Fire Sales – Saturday, May 17– Kicking off the month’s major events is West Liberty’s Annual Fire Sales on Saturday, May 17, a beloved village tradition rooted in resilience. First held in response to the devastating fire of 1880 that destroyed much of the downtown area, the sales span the entire village and run from early morning until 5 p.m. Bargain hunters can explore yard and garage sales across town, with convenient port-o-johns and public restrooms available throughout.
- World War II Living History – May 17– On the same day, Piatt Castle Mac-A-Cheek will host its World War II Living History Event from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The free outdoor program, organized by the Greater Ohio Living History Association, features interactive demonstrations and reenactments set against the dramatic backdrop of the castle’s architecture. Now in its tenth year, the event draws history buffs of all ages.
- Splash Pad Grand Opening – Saturday, May 24– The following weekend marks the grand opening of the Splash Pad on Saturday, May 24, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The event will include giveaways for the first 50 children, emergency vehicle displays, and community partners offering bike helmets and ice cream. It’s a celebration designed to welcome summer in full splash.
- Memorial Day Parade – Monday, May 26– West Liberty will pay tribute to its heroes on Monday, May 26 at 2 p.m. with the Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony. Starting at the old high school and ending at Town Hall, the solemn ceremony will include performances by the high school band, a 21-gun salute, and a benediction by a local pastor.
- Historical Society Meeting – Wednesday, May 28– The West Liberty Historical Society will hold its monthly meeting on Wednesday, May 28 at 11 a.m., featuring a presentation on the village’s school buildings. Attendees are invited to enjoy lunch during the discussion, with free admission for members and a $15 fee for non-members.
- Culpepper & Merriweather Circus – Friday, May 30– Don’t miss the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus at West Liberty Lions Park on Friday, May 30, with shows at 5:00 and 7:30 p.m. Featuring aerial acrobatics, tightrope walkers, big cats, and classic clowning, the one-ring circus offers fun for all ages. Morning tent-raising tours and afternoon midway activities add to the day’s excitement.
- Sawdust & Bluegrass Festival – Saturday, May 31– Capping off the month, the West Liberty Lions Club’s Sawdust and Bluegrass Festival returns on Saturday, May 31, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Highlights include a working sawmill, horseshoe tournament, live bluegrass music by the Muleskinners, and the season’s first Lions Fish Fry from 5–7 p.m.
