If You're NearbyHeritageUNESCOAncient mounds

Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks

Ohio

Geometric earthworks built about 2,000 years ago in Ohio, aligned with the moon. World Heritage since 2023.

Photo: Blervis · CC0

Native people built perfect circles and octagons, some aligned to an 18.6-year lunar cycle. The sites include Newark's Great Circle and Octagon, and the Mound City group at Chillicothe, a national historical park.

Best Time
May–October
Time Needed
1 day
Cost Level
$$$$
Open
Check before you go; hours vary by season
Getting There
Both are about an hour from Columbus, Ohio.

What to See

2 of 2 are free
Free1 hour

Mound City Group

Twenty-three mounds, with a visitor center and museum.

Free45 minutes

Newark Great Circle

A vast circle of earth you can walk around.

Know Before You Go

  • The Octagon had been a golf course until recently; check public access.

Where to Stay

Stay in Columbus or Chillicothe.

Where to Eat

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Last checked 2026-11-02. Part of the Midwest list.