Historic Somerset

Somerset, Ohio, is a charming village rich in history and surrounded by natural beauty, offering a variety of attractions for visitors. Explore the town square to see the statue of General Philip Sheridan and the nearby statue of Nellie Sheridan Wilson, Somerset's first female postmaster. Visit the historic Old Perry County Courthouse, built in 1829, which stands as one of Ohio's oldest existing courthouses. Just outside the village, you'll find Saint Joseph's Catholic Church, the oldest Catholic church in Ohio, established in 1843. For nature enthusiasts, Perry State Forest offers miles of trails for hiking and off-road vehicle adventures. Art lovers can explore the Somerset Artists' Co-Op, featuring works by local and regional artists. After a day of exploration, enjoy a meal at a delicious local restaurant.

Activities List

Explore Local

Hiking Trails

Explore the scenic beauty of Ohio's countryside with a variety of hiking trails for all levels.

Local Heritage

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Somerset with visits to local historic sites.

Dining & Drinks

Savor the flavors of the region at local restaurants, cafes and pubs.

Things to Do in Somerset, Ohio

Explore the charm, history, and hospitality of Somerset with activities and attractions just steps from Pigfoot Inn:

Visit the Historic Jacob Miller’s Tavern

Located right on Pigfoot Square, this is one of Ohio’s oldest surviving taverns and a cornerstone of Somerset’s history. While the building is currently closed to the public for a major restoration effort—including full disassembly and reconstruction to ensure it stands for another 200 years—it’s still worth a visit. We recommend walking by to view the progress and read the historical markers that share the story of this remarkable site.
Learn more

Shop Local Boutiques and Antique Stores

Discover unique treasures in Somerset’s charming shops. One of our favorites is Gypsy Hawaii Boutique, where you’ll find ocean-inspired jewelry from Hawaii, artisan tie-dyes, crystals and stones, seashell décor, handmade soaps, and more. It’s a little slice of island magic right in the heart of town.
Explore shops

Grab a Coffee or Bite to Eat at Local Cafés and Eateries

Somerset may be small, but it's big on flavor. Just a short walk from the inn, General Assembly is a full-service coffee house offering custom-roasted coffees, seasonal drinks, and delicious breakfast and lunch specials. For a European flair, Épicerie et Les Fleurs serves up paninis, baguettes, salads, soups, and a thoughtful selection of wine, beer, and charcuterie. And for a hearty, historic dining experience, visit The Clay Haus, located in an early-1800s building along Route 22, where you’ll enjoy German and American cuisine, Prime Rib Saturdays, and cocktails in the cozy basement Rathskeller. Check out these and some other great places below!
See dining options

Tap Into Somerset’s Creative Side

Visit the Somerset Artists Co-Op to shop regional art or take a class in pottery, glass, metalwork, painting, and more. Private classes available! For a groovy group getaway, book a weekend at the Groovy Craft Shack — a fun, 70s-themed crafting space for groups of 6 or more.
Explore classes and more

Experience the Ghosts of Somerset

Wander Somerset’s oldest alleyways on a tour that weaves together local folklore and real ghost-hunting. Led by a guide in historic costume, you’ll learn how to interpret EMF spikes, examine century-old artifacts, and gather chilling evidence of the unseen.
Take a Tour with The Ghost Patrol

Visit the Local Library

Walking distance from the Inn, check out the local library’s book selection and events.

Perry County District Library

Hike the Local Trails

Enjoy nearby nature trails for hiking and ATVs as well as scenic rural roads.
Find a trail

Located 20 minutes from Pigfoot, The Dawes Arboretum in Newark, Ohio, is a nearly 2,000-acre living museum dedicated to conserving trees, nature, and history. Visitors can explore over 12 miles of hiking trails, a four-mile Auto Tour, and tranquil spots like the Japanese Garden and Dutch Fork Wetlands. Family-friendly activities include a Story Trail and a 36-foot Observation Tower offering panoramic views of the grounds. The arboretum is open year-round and provides educational programs and a serene environment for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

Visit Dawes Aboretum

Whether you come to ride APVs (all purpose vehicles), go horseback riding, hunt, or just visit, you will have an enjoyable forest experience. Perry State Forest features 4,706 acres in Perry County with 24 miles of hiking trails, 8 miles of bridle trails, and 16 miles of APV trails.

Visit The Perry State Forest

Hocking Hills, located in southeastern Ohio, is known for its stunning sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, caves, and forested gorges. It’s a popular destination for hiking, camping, and nature photography, with highlights like Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls. The area lies about 35 miles from Somerset, Ohio. For travel guides, lodging, and park information, visit their tourism site.

Hocking Hills Tourism Site

Tour St. Joseph Catholic Church

The oldest Catholic church in Ohio, rich with history and beauty.
Learn more ›

Enjoy a Local Wine Tasting

Visit the region's nearby winery and tasting room. One of our favorites is Vinberige Vineyards!
Plan a tasting

Book transportation with Cork & Tap Excursions to explore all the local wineries.

Check Out Local Events & Festivals

Somerset hosts seasonal events, farmers markets, and more.
Event calendar

Explore a Local Farm

Fern Hollow is a regenerative permaculture farm and community hub rooted in the rolling hills of Appalachia. Once fallow farmland in Somerset, it has been transformed into a thriving landscape that grows ethical foods, offers herbal care, and hosts immersive experiences for over 2,500 visitors and community members. With a vision of resilience and mutual care, Fern Hollow connects people to the land, to each other, and to the healing power of nature.

Fern Hollow

Attend a Music Concert at a Historic Venue

Legend Valley is a 230 acre live music venue and campground that has hosted concerts, music festivals and athletic events since the 1970s.

Legend Valley

Go to an Auction

Attend a live auction at the Mike Clum Auction Gallery.

Check the schedule here

Explore Buckeye Lake

Just a short drive from Somerset, Buckeye Lake offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Spend your day boating, fishing, or kayaking on the water, stroll along the shoreline trails, or stop by one of the lakeside restaurants and breweries for a bite with a view. Whether you’re looking for outdoor fun or a peaceful sunset by the water, Buckeye Lake is a must-see destination during your stay.

Buckeye Lake Tourism