Unearth The Voyage
Steubenville sits along the Ohio River like a colorful storybook come to life. This small city packs big surprises with giant murals covering downtown buildings, fascinating frontier history, and pizza that makes people argue. Whether you love art, history, or trying new foods, Steubenville offers adventures that will surprise and delight visitors of all ages.
1. Marvel at Nearly 30 Spectacular Downtown Murals
Walking through downtown Steubenville feels like stepping into a giant outdoor art museum. Massive paintings cover entire building walls, telling stories about steamboats, steel workers, and famous local people.
The self-guided Historic Fort Steuben Mural Tour helps visitors find all the colorful masterpieces. Each mural shows different parts of the city’s past, from frontier days to modern times.
Kids especially love spotting Dean Martin and other celebrities painted on the walls. These aren’t just pretty pictures – they’re history lessons you can see from the street.
2. Step Back in Time at Historic Fort Steuben
Built in 1786 and carefully rebuilt on the original spot, Historic Fort Steuben shows what life was really like for early settlers. Wooden walls and authentic buildings help visitors imagine frontier days along the Ohio River.
The First Federal Land Office from 1801 still stands nearby, making it Ohio’s oldest federal building. Rangers in period costumes demonstrate how people lived, worked, and survived in the wilderness.
Interactive exhibits let kids try frontier activities like writing with quill pens. History becomes exciting when you can touch, see, and experience the past firsthand.
3. Try the Pizza That Divides America
Ohio Valley-style pizza from Steubenville makes people either love it or scratch their heads in confusion. The secret lies in putting cold cheese and toppings on hot pizza after it comes out of the oven.
DiCarlo’s Pizza invented this strange method in 1945, creating a half-melted, gooey texture that locals absolutely adore. The square crust gets topped with sauce first, then the cold ingredients go on top.
Visitors should definitely try a slice to join the great pizza debate. Some people think it’s genius, while others prefer their cheese completely melted – there’s no middle ground!
4. Celebrate Dean Martin’s Hometown Legacy
Steubenville proudly claims Dean Martin, the smooth-singing member of Frank Sinatra’s Rat Pack, as their most famous son. Born Dino Crocetti in 1917, he grew up in this river town before becoming a Hollywood legend.
Every June, the Dean Martin Festival fills the streets with music, dancing, and Rat Pack nostalgia. Impersonators compete to sound most like the “King of Cool” while fans enjoy live entertainment.
The Jefferson County Historical Museum features a special Dean Martin room with memorabilia and photos. Young visitors learn about how a local boy became one of America’s biggest entertainment stars.
5. Experience Holiday Magic at Nutcracker Village
December transforms Steubenville into a winter wonderland with over 180 life-sized nutcracker displays scattered throughout downtown. These colorful wooden soldiers stand guard on every corner, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.
The Nutcracker Village and Advent Market combines the displays with shopping stalls selling handmade crafts and warm treats. Live music fills the air while families stroll between the towering festive figures.
Children love hunting for different nutcracker designs, from traditional soldiers to unique local themes. This enchanting event has become one of Ohio’s most beloved holiday traditions, drawing visitors from neighboring states.
6. Explore Museums and University Culture
The Jefferson County Historical Museum occupies a beautiful 19th-century mansion filled with period furniture, local artifacts, and fascinating genealogical records. Visitors discover how the steel industry shaped the region’s development.
Franciscan University of Steubenville crowns a hill overlooking the city, bringing youthful energy and academic programs to the community. The campus adds cultural events, lectures, and student activities throughout the year.
Both institutions preserve and share local heritage in different ways. The museum focuses on the past while the university prepares students for the future, creating a perfect balance of tradition and progress.
7. Enjoy Outdoor Adventures Along the Ohio River
The Ohio River Scenic Byway offers breathtaking views as it winds through Steubenville, perfect for leisurely drives or cycling adventures. Rolling hills and river vistas create picture-perfect scenery year-round.
Beatty Park features a 1.7-mile loop trail connecting to Historic Union Cemetery, ideal for hiking, bird-watching, or peaceful walks. Families enjoy picnics while kids play in safe, well-maintained areas.
Belleview Park provides additional outdoor recreation opportunities with sports facilities and green spaces. These riverside locations offer fresh air and natural beauty just minutes from downtown’s artistic attractions.
8. Discover a Growing Public Art Scene
Beyond the famous murals, Steubenville continues expanding its artistic reputation with sculpture installations, art festivals, and creative walking tours. Local artists regularly add fresh works to the downtown gallery.
The city embraces public art as a way to revitalize neighborhoods and attract visitors. New pieces appear regularly, making each visit potentially reveal something different and exciting.
Art enthusiasts can participate in guided tours or explore independently using maps and apps. This evolving creative landscape ensures Steubenville remains a dynamic destination where art and community intersect in meaningful, accessible ways.
