Discover the Historic John Rankin House: A Beacon of Freedom
Explore the John Rankin House, a historical landmark in Ripley, Ohio, and delve into the crucial role it played in the Underground Railroad.
Nestled in Ripley, Ohio, the John Rankin House is a significant historical landmark that played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad. This museum and tourist attraction invites visitors to explore the life of John Rankin, a prominent abolitionist, and learn about the history of freedom seekers who passed through this very home. With engaging exhibits and beautiful views of the Ohio River, it’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in America’s journey towards equality.
A brief summary to John Rankin House
- 6152 Rankin Hill Rd, Ripley, Ohio, 45167, US
- +1937-392-4044
- Visit website
Local tips
- Plan your visit on a Wednesday to Sunday for guided tours, and check for any special events.
- Allow extra time to enjoy the scenic views of the Ohio River after your tour.
- Visit the museum's gift shop for unique souvenirs related to the history of abolition.
- Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy in the tranquil surroundings of the property.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving in Southeast Ohio, start by navigating to US-52 E towards Ripley. Once you reach Ripley, take the exit for US-62 N, and then turn left onto Rankin Hill Rd. Continue on Rankin Hill Rd for about 2 miles, and you will see the John Rankin House on your right at 6152 Rankin Hill Rd, Ripley, OH 45167. There is free parking available on-site.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, take a Greyhound or Megabus to a nearby city such as Cincinnati or Portsmouth. From there, you will need to take a local taxi or rideshare service (like Uber or Lyft) to get to the John Rankin House. Ensure to confirm the fare with the driver beforehand as it may vary based on your pick-up location. The distance from Cincinnati to Ripley is about 50 miles, so expect to pay around $60-$80 for a taxi ride.
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Bicycle
For adventurous travelers, consider biking to the John Rankin House. If you're already in the vicinity, you can enjoy a scenic ride along local roads. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules. From Ripley town center, head towards Rankin Hill Rd and follow it up to the house. The ride is approximately 2 miles and is mostly flat, making it suitable for most cyclists.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in Ripley, you can walk to the John Rankin House. From the center of Ripley, head south on Main St towards US-52, then take a left onto US-62 N. Continue walking until you reach Rankin Hill Rd, then turn left. The house is about 2 miles from the town center. Be mindful of traffic along the roads.
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