Landmarks + Legends: 12 Historical Attractions

Ready to step back in time? Let's start exploring!

Discover the stories that shaped Butler County, Ohio. From grand monuments and historic homes, to stories carved in stone and the voices that shaped the nation— our county is rich with fascinating landmarks and legendary tales. Explore these 12 local attractions that offer a glimpse into our history.

Butler County Courthouse

101 High Street | Hamilton, Ohio

Standing proudly in downtown Hamilton, the Butler County Courthouse is a striking symbol of architectural grandeur. Completed in 1889, this grand four-story Romanesque Revival masterpiece features intricate stonework, towering spires, and a rich history.

Butler County Warbirds

2301 Wedekind Drive | Middletown, Ohio

Aviation and military history come alive at Butler County Warbirds. This museum preserves and showcases vintage aircrafts and military artifacts, honoring many legacies. Visitors can explore the exhibits, see restored planes, and even catch special flight demonstrations.

Chrisholm MetroPark Historic Farmstead

2070 Woodsdale Road | Trenton, Ohio

Once home to 19th-century Amish leader Christian Augspurger, the Chrisholm Historic Farmstead offers a glimpse into rural life in the 1800s. Stroll the scenic grounds, tour the restored farmhouse, and learn about the Amish-Mennonite heritage.

Dayton Lane Historic District

712 Dayton Street | Hamilton, Ohio

Step back in time with a walk through the Dayton Lane Historic District. This neighborhood boasts one of the largest collections of Victorian homes in Ohio and features over 200 structures representing architectural styles from the 19th century— including Queen Anne, Italianate, Second Empire, and Georgian Revival. Marvel at the stunning architecture and picture life in a bygone era.

Freedom Summer Memorial

650 Western College Drive | Oxford, Ohio (Behind Kumler Chapel at Miami University)

Located at Miami University, the Freedom Summer Memorial honors the brave civil rights workers who trained here in 1964 before heading south to fight for voting rights. This powerful site is a reminder of the courage that fueled the Civil Rights Movement.

Governor Bebb MetroPark

1979 Bebb Park Lane | Okeana, Ohio

Enjoy fresh air and a bit of historical flavor at The Governor Bebb Preserve. It features a historical pioneer village, which includes the log house birthplace of William Bebb, Butler County native and Ohio's nineteenth governor. The park also features Bebb’s 1800s birthplace cabin. Visitors can experience nature trails, a covered bridge, and a peaceful retreat into Ohio’s pioneer past.

McGuffey House & Museum

401 E. Spring Street | Oxford, Ohio

Home to William Holmes McGuffey, creator of the iconic McGuffey Readers, this 1833 house is now a museum celebrating one of America’s most influential educators. William Holmes McGuffey was a professor of Ancient Languages and Moral Philosophy at Miami University. Tour the Federal-style home and explore artifacts from the early days of literacy and public education.

National Voice of America Museum of Broadcasting

8070 Tylersville Road, Crosley Boulevard | West Chester, Ohio

Broadcasting history takes center stage at the National VOA Museum of Broadcasting. Housed in the historic Bethany Relay Station— this building played a significant role in the United States history during World War II and the Cold War. The museum highlights the global impact of Voice of America, and features vintage radios, interactive exhibits on media, broadcast technology, and more.

Robert McCloskey Wonder Works 

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum | 1763 Hamilton Cleves Road | Hamilton, Ohio

Beloved children’s author and illustrator Robert McCloskey, known for classics like Make Way for Ducklings, was born in Hamilton. While his birthplace is privately owned, the city proudly celebrates his legacy with public art and tributes throughout the community. As the Robert McCloskey Wonder Works Museum prepares for its next chapter, it will become the nonprofit in residence at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum for an 18-month period beginning May 29, 2025.

Soldiers, Sailors & Pioneers Monument

1 S Monument Avenue | Hamilton, Ohio

This monument and museum honors the brave men and women who served as Butler County pioneers. Inside visitors can view artifacts, memorials, and tributes to Butler County’s heroes. Notable features of the monument are gorgeous stained glass windows and two large displays that honor the service of the men and women during the Civil War. On the temple dome stands a 17-foot, 3,500 pound bronze statue created by Rudolph Theim, titled "Victory," representing a Civil War private "Billy Yank" raising his cap in celebration.

Wayne Embry Statue

John D. Millett Hall at Miami University | 500 E Sycamore Street | Oxford, Ohio

Celebrate sports history while admiring the Wayne Embry statue on Miami University’s campus. Wayne Embry, an NBA trailblazer and the league’s first African American general manager, is honored here for his achievements both on and off the court.

1910 Museum

10 E. Elm Street | Monroe, Ohio

Hosted by the Monroe Ohio Historical Society, this 1910 building has a long and varied history. From a general store, to a soda fountain, to a dress shop, to a local hangout, this historic museum has undergone many names and the purposes in the last century. Discover the history behind this long-beloved establishment!