Explore Ohio's First UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks during our Family Field Trip Friday Tours!

Pack your curiosity and sense of adventure this summer for a unique journey through time with Family Field Trip Fridays! Every Friday from June onwards, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history and landscapes of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks sites. Each tour, guided by expert archaeologists, offers a distinct glimpse into Ohio’s early Native American past.

First Friday: Great Circle Museum at the Newark Earthworks

Kick off your month at the Great Circle Earthworks, one of the largest earthen enclosures in the world. At 12:30 p.m. on the first Friday of each month, join Ohio History Connection Senior Archaeologist Brad Lepper for a tour through the Great Circle Museum and Earthworks. Discover the Hopewell archaeological culture as you walk the grounds of this monumental structure, learning about its construction and significance. Don’t miss out on an experience that sets the stage for the summer! For more details, check out Ohio History Connection's Membership Manager, Truda Shinker's blog post: First Friday Tour of the Great Circle

Second Friday: Hopewell Culture National Historical Park

Every second Friday, explore a different site within the Hopewell Culture National Historical Park. These tours offer a deep dive into the diverse earthworks in the park. Guided by park archaeologists, each visit provides insights into the Hopewell archaeological culture and mound-building techniques. This tour ensures a fresh and exciting adventure each month. Check out the full list of tours here: NPS Second Friday Tours.

Third Friday: Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve

On the third Friday of each month, join Ohio History Connection Archaeologist Bill Kennedy at 1 p.m. for an engaging tour of the Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve. This site offers a blend of archaeology and natural beauty, with museum exhibits and outdoor exploration. Uncover the ancient walls and learn about the people who built them. This tour is perfect for families eager to combine education with the great outdoors. For more details, check out Truda Shinker’s Road Trippin’ blog post: Fort Ancient Archaeology Tour.

Second & Fourth Friday: Serpent Mound Archaeology Tour

While not part of the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, the Serpent Mound offers an unparalleled glimpse into pre-contact Native American culture. Every second and fourth Friday at 1:30 p.m., join Archaeologist Bill Kennedy for a tour around the world’s largest effigy mound. Discover the history and significance of this serpentine earthwork, and gain insights into the early Native Americans that inhabited the land that would later become Ohio. This tour begins at the museum visitor center and is a must-see for anyone interested in early Ohio history. For more details, read Truda Shinker’s blog post: Serpent Mound Archaeology Tour.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Summer!

Family Field Trip Fridays at the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks offer a perfect blend of history, culture and outdoor fun. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique family outing, these tours provide an enriching experience for all ages. Mark your calendars and make the most of your summer with us. We can’t wait to see you there!