Along with seven other Ohio earthworks, Fort Ancient has been inscribed onto the World Heritage list! Join us for an open house on October 7 and 8 (9 am to 6 pm both days) with a special commemoration of World Heritage status at 11:00 am on Oct 7 in the picnic shelter in the South Fort. Tours and programs all weekend. Free admission all weekend. Parking will be in the South Fort at the rear of the site. See our OHC Event page or social media for more details.
April-November:
Museum and grounds:
Wednesday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday Noon – 5 p.m.
Final admission should be paid by 4:00 p.m. Gift shop closes at 4:30 p.m. Site closes promptly at 5:00 p.m.
If you are interested in supporting Fort Ancient, you may donate by texting SAVEHISTORY to 44-321.
Explore North America’s largest ancient hilltop enclosure, built 2,000 years ago. A National Historic Landmark, the site is thought to have served as a social and ceremonial gathering place. Experience an on-site museum and gift shop (members receive a 10% discount), recreated American Indian garden and three miles of hiking trails with scenic overlooks. Average visit time: Allow 2+ hours. Plan Your Visit!
The use of drones is prohibited at all Ohio History Connection sites. To inquire about commercial filming permits, contact Neil Thompson, manager of media and public relations, at [email protected]
Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve is Ohio’s first state park. In April 1891, the state legislature authorized the Ohio Archaeological and Historical Society (now the Ohio History Connection) to care for the site. In 1966, Fort Ancient became nationally recognized when it was named a National Historic Landmark. Learn more here.
Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve is managed by the Ohio History Connection.
Learn more about Fort Ancient’s history and what you can do there by clicking here!
Fort Ancient is one step closer to becoming Ohio’s first World Heritage site. The site is one of eight Ohio sites in a serial nomination of Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks. In addition to Fort Ancient, the sites are Newark Earthworks and the six sites that make up Hopewell Culture National Historical Park in Chillicothe. For more information on World Heritage and how you can help, visit worldheritageohio.org.
Become an Ohio History Connection member today and explore our 50+ historic sites and museums throughout the state of Ohio for free, including Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve.
With tangible benefits such as free regular admission, discounts, invitations to members-only events and publications to intangible benefits such as supporting and sustaining Ohio’s legacy, members gain a greater understanding of Ohio’s past while connecting themselves to Ohio’s future. Make Ohio’s history part of your present, and experience all the Ohio History Connection has to offer.
Questions about membership? Call us at 800.686.1545 or email us at [email protected]. We would love to hear from you!
Click here to become a member today!
Help assist with a variety of activities like trail maintenance, educational programs and more! Learn more by clicking here.
Fort Ancient works in partnership with a variety of organizations in and around the Cincinnati, Dayton and Warren County areas. This network of businesses and organizations help promote Fort Ancient to the broader community through grants, public service announcements, community service, educational programs and technical support.
