What to do in Gambier & beyond

Q: What is there to do in Gambier, Ohio?

Gambier's main draws are the Kenyon College campus, the Kokosing Gap Trail for walking and biking, and the Kokosing River for paddling. Surrounding Knox County adds Amish country, Ariel-Foundation Park, and two public golf courses.

Q: How far is Gambier from Columbus?

Gambier is about 50 miles northeast of Columbus, roughly 50 to 55 minutes by car via US-36 or US-62.

Q: Is Gambier worth a weekend trip?

Yes. A typical weekend runs: Friday evening dinner at the restaurant, Saturday on the Kokosing Gap Trail or in Amish country, Saturday evening in the bar or at a campus event, and Sunday brunch.

Q: What's happening on the Kenyon campus?

Kenyon runs year-round events including theater, music, readings, athletic competitions, and lectures, many open to the public. The front desk can point guests to what's on during their stay.

Gambier sits in the middle of Knox County, about 50 minutes from Columbus. The campus is beautiful, the trails are close, and Amish country starts about 30 minutes southeast.

Things to do in Gambier

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Aerial view of a Gambier, Ohio & Kenyon College with buildings, trees, and surrounding town streets.

Attractions

What is there to do near Gambier?

The front desk keeps a current sense of what's open and what's recommended. The list below covers the reliable draws.

Recreation

Woodward Opera House

Attend concerts, theatrical productions, comedy shows, and community programs inside a restored historic opera house in downtown Mount Vernon. Check the event calendar before planning your visit.

12 min drive

Restored historic facade of the Woodward Opera House in downtown Mount Vernon

On Campus

What's happening at Kenyon?

Kenyon runs events throughout the year (theater productions, concerts, readings, athletic competitions, and public lectures) many open to visitors. The Hill Theater and Bolton Dance Studio run regular performances during the academic year.
The campus itself is worth a walk: the Middle Path, the Church of the Holy Spirit, and Rosse Hall are among the most photographed sites in Knox County.

Kenyon events calendar

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Knox County

More to offer in Knox County

Discover the charm of Knox County, where scenic trails, historic towns, local arts and welcoming communities invite you to slow down and explore. From the Kokosing River to downtown Mount Vernon, memorable experiences are always close by.

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Three people fishing from a boat on a calm lake framed by green tree branches.

Spooky Season

Kenyon has a haunted side

The campus has a long history of ghost sightings and paranormal activity. It's the perfect for the thrill seakers or for a spooky season stay! Learn about the haunted side of Kenyon that you didn't know was there.

Learn about Haunted Kenyon

Large historic stone building with bright lights at three entrances during night.

Ready to plan your visit?

Book a room, stay a weekend

The Inn is the right base for exploring Knox County because of its walkable to campus, five minutes from the trail, and the best dinner you'll find within 40 miles.

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