COLUMBUS, Ohio — Visitors to this year’s Ohio State Fair will find several new attractions at the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Natural Resources Park, including a butterfly house, aviary and newly remodeled gift shop, as Ohio celebrates America’s 250th birthday.
Located in the southeast corner of the Ohio State Fairgrounds, the Natural Resources Park will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. throughout the fair, offering a mix of new exhibits and returning family-friendly attractions.
One of the park’s newest features is a butterfly house where guests can observe seven species of butterflies, including monarchs and swallowtails. The attraction also includes a new ADA-accessible entrance and elevated boardwalk designed to improve accessibility and viewing opportunities.
Another addition is the Ruthven Aviary, home to several native bird species including mallards, wild turkeys, house finches, American robins and northern cardinals.
“This year’s state fair is all about honoring the people, the places and the stories that have left a lasting impact on Ohio and across America,” said ODNR Director Mary Mertz. She said the park has been decorated in red, white and blue as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.
The park will also feature free daily entertainment at its outdoor amphitheater, including performances by The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show and K9s for Conservation. On Aug. 5, wildlife educator and television personality Coyote Peterson is scheduled to make a special appearance, sharing stories from his outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters.
Visitors looking to escape the summer heat can stop by the newly renovated ODNR Gift Store, which offers souvenirs, apparel, toys and the Ohio State Parks Passport, featuring 76 destinations across the state. Nearby, the ODNR Information Booth provides free maps, guides and educational materials about Ohio’s parks, wildlife and outdoor recreation.
The Ohio State Fair runs July 29 through Aug. 9 at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus. Admission to the Natural Resources Park is included with fair admission.
Additional information about the Natural Resources Park and its daily entertainment schedule is available through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.
