In the Activity Spotlight we highlight some of the many great activities available within a short drive of Ravenwood Castle.

There are a lot of activities in and around the Hocking Hills area. The outdoor activities are especially well known, but were you aware there are also a number of interesting indoor activities in the area, including some great museums?

On your next visit to Ravenwood Castle, if the weather’s a bit too rough for enjoying yourself outdoors, we suggest taking a trip to nearby Lancaster. The historic downtown district has been home to many glass companies throughout the years, and has actually been designated the “Pressed Glass Capital of Ohio”. It should come as no surprise then that the district is also home to Ohio’s very own Glass Museum.

Stroll through the museum with a knowledgeable tour guide, and hear all about the history of glass making – from the early days up to current techniques. You will also be able to view many impressive displays of vintage glass, from those made on site to many pieces that have been donated since the museum opened in 2006.  The tour concludes with a viewing of the movie “Born of Fire”, which tells the story of the glass produced in the Lancaster area.

Want to immerse yourself even further into the glass making world? Be sure to stop by the Glass Studio, where a glass blower will demonstrate the art of glass blowing. Those who are more hands on can even sign up for a glass blowing class!

To cap off your day, be sure to visit the museum’s gift shop. The shop offers a wide variety of unique glass creations made by the museum’s own glass blowers, locally manufactured glassware items for the home, and some amazing pieces made by local artists.  The creations come in various shapes, sizes and colors, so you are sure to find the perfect piece to take home!

Once you have found your treasure, come on back to Ravenwood Castle for some rest and relaxation, and enjoy another glass in the Raven’s Roost Pub!

Jim Reed

Jim Reed is a lifelong gamer who started with the original red box Dungeons & Dragons. After spending 20 years in the corporate world, he decided it was high time that work be fun and struck out on his own. Jim now owns and operates Ravenwood Castle, and spends his days ensuring his guests have as much fun as he does.