Newark Earthworks Great Circle
Explore the monumental Great Circle Earthworks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the ancient Hopewell culture. Discover history and serenity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Newark Earthworks Great Circle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the monumental Great Circle Earthworks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the ancient Hopewell culture. Discover history and serenity.
"Absolutely amazing and worth visiting at any point. The staff is very knowledgeable and friendly."
🚶♀️ Walk the Circle
Stroll the perimeter of the Great Circle to truly grasp its immense scale and ancient purpose. :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Ask Questions!
Staff at the visitor center are incredibly friendly and eager to share their knowledge. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Circle
Newark Earthworks
A massive, ancient ceremonial enclosure built by the Hopewell culture. Stand in awe of its scale and geometric precision.
Visitor Center Exhibits
Newark Earthworks
Interactive displays and knowledgeable staff bring the history of the Hopewell people and their earthworks to life.
Lunar Alignment Viewing
Newark Earthworks
Experience special viewings of lunar alignments in the fall, a testament to the astronomical knowledge of the Hopewell.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
UNESCO World Heritage Site Status
Visitor Center & Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Circle
Stroll the perimeter of the Great Circle to truly grasp its immense scale and ancient purpose. :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Ask Questions!
Staff at the visitor center are incredibly friendly and eager to share their knowledge. :iphone:
📅 Check Tour Schedules
Free guided tours are often available, especially at the Octagon Earthworks. :admission_tickets:
✨ Embrace the Serenity
Visit early to enjoy the quiet, meditative atmosphere of this historic site. :sparkles:
Inside of the Great circle at Newark, Ohio. You know I walked through it.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Circle
Stroll the perimeter of the Great Circle to truly grasp its immense scale and ancient purpose. :athletic_shoe:
🗣️ Ask Questions!
Staff at the visitor center are incredibly friendly and eager to share their knowledge. :iphone:
📅 Check Tour Schedules
Free guided tours are often available, especially at the Octagon Earthworks. :admission_tickets:
✨ Embrace the Serenity
Visit early to enjoy the quiet, meditative atmosphere of this historic site. :sparkles:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Newark Earthworks Great Circle for its historical significance, serene atmosphere, and free admission. The knowledgeable and friendly staff at the visitor center are a major highlight, enhancing the educational experience. While some visitors note that the museum exhibits might be temporarily closed, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it for history buffs and those seeking a peaceful exploration.
"I happened to stumble across this park today and I had a wonderful time! For history buffs, this small town of Newark is packed with deep rich history especially within these earthworks sites. It’s free to walk around, and the staff at the visitor center are kind, welcoming, and very knowledgeable on the history of the mounds and their partner tribes. Im all about traveling on a budget so when I heard that they offer free tours at noon each day they’re open over at the octagon mound, I was seriously impressed! They also offer educational programs and will have viewings of the lunar alignment in the fall.
I came right around 10 am, and there were not many people at all. I maybe passed 2-3 other people/pairs. It was quiet, serene and beautiful.
I highly recommend going and walking around. I also recommend asking questions! The staff are so warm and would love to help you out."
Alyssa
"Absolutely amazing and worth visiting at any point. The staff is very knowledgeable and friendly with regular guided tours. Words and pictures don't give the sites justice to how magical they are."
Amanda Morrison
"Nice walk on a pretty day. So much history to read about. The trees there are also great to walk around and see. The only downer was that it appears that their little museum is closed right now. A sign on the door said walking tours on first Fridays at 12:30. I would have liked to have learned more as this was our first time to visit this area."
Sherrie Shaver
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Newark Earthworks are located in Newark, Ohio, approximately 40 minutes east of Columbus. You can drive directly to the site, which has a visitor center and parking. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to reach the earthworks.
Yes, there is parking available at the visitor center for the Newark Earthworks. It's generally ample, especially if you arrive earlier in the day.
Absolutely! The Newark Earthworks, including the Great Circle, make for an excellent day trip from Columbus, Ohio, as it's only about a 40-minute drive away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, visiting the Newark Earthworks, including the Great Circle, is free of charge. You can walk around the grounds and explore the earthworks without purchasing a ticket.
The grounds of the Newark Earthworks are generally accessible during daylight hours. The visitor center has specific operating hours, which are best checked on their official website or by calling ahead.
Yes, guided tours are often offered, particularly at the Octagon Earthworks, and sometimes at the Great Circle. These tours are usually free and provide in-depth historical context. It's recommended to check the schedule in advance.
The museum and visitor center offer informative displays. While some reviews mention it being closed at times, it's best to verify current operating status and exhibit availability before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk the vast perimeter of the Great Circle, explore the visitor center with its interactive exhibits, and learn about the Hopewell culture. The site offers a serene environment for reflection and historical exploration.
To fully appreciate the scale and history, allocate at least 1-2 hours. This allows time for walking the earthworks and exploring the visitor center.
The main walking paths around the Great Circle are generally flat and grassy, but can be uneven. The visitor center is typically accessible. It's advisable to contact the site directly for specific accessibility details.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, as you'll be walking on grass and potentially uneven terrain around the earthworks. :athletic_shoe:
Typically, pets are allowed on leash in outdoor park areas, but not inside visitor centers or buildings. Always check the specific park regulations before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The vastness of the Great Circle itself offers dramatic perspectives. Consider capturing the scale from the center or walking the perimeter. The visitor center also has interesting displays for photos.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national historic sites and parks to protect the environment and visitor experience. It's best to check the official regulations for the Newark Earthworks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage your children to imagine what life was like for the people who built these incredible mounds centuries ago. The free admission makes it a budget-friendly option for a family day out. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, making it a full and memorable experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a packed lunch and enjoy the serene surroundings. The free guided tours, when available, offer immense value, providing expert insights without any cost. This makes it a fantastic way to experience significant history on a tight budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hopewell Culture and Their Earthworks
These earthworks were not merely defensive structures but served as centers for ceremonial gatherings, astronomical observation, and trade. The Hopewell people were extensive traders, exchanging goods like copper, mica, and obsidian over long distances. Their legacy is preserved in these monumental earthen structures, offering a profound glimpse into a civilization that predates European arrival by centuries.
Recent recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site underscores the global importance of the Newark Earthworks. This designation aims to protect and promote these invaluable cultural resources, ensuring that future generations can learn from and appreciate the ingenuity of the Hopewell culture.
+1Visiting the Newark Earthworks: A Traveler's Perspective
The visitor center staff consistently receive praise for their friendliness and extensive knowledge. They are a valuable resource for understanding the significance of the earthworks and the Hopewell culture. Visitors are encouraged to engage with them, ask questions, and take advantage of any available guided tours, which are often highlighted as a particularly insightful part of the visit.
While the earthworks themselves are the main draw, the surrounding natural beauty also contributes to the peaceful atmosphere. Many find it a perfect spot for a quiet walk, meditation, or simply to connect with the past in a tranquil setting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit