In 2022 over 200 places across 64 Ohio counties opened their doors for free special tours and programs to celebrate Ohio's architecture and history.
Ohio Open Doors is an biennial program sponsored by the Ohio History Connection and partner organizations, the Ohio Arts Council, TourismOhio, the Ohio Travel Association and Heritage Ohio. Open Doors is a statewide effort where building and landmark owners open their doors to the public for special tours and programs.
Are you interested in participating in Ohio Open Doors in September 2024? Watch this site for more details coming in the Spring of 2024.
The Ohio History Connection created Ohio Open Doors in 2016 to promote and inspire pride in Ohio’s heritage and to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the National Historic Preservation Act.
Signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson on Oct. 15, 1966, the Act has proven instrumental in transforming the face of communities from coast to coast, establishing the legal framework and incentives to preserve historic buildings, landscapes and archaeological sites. It drives economic revitalization by attracting investment, supporting small business, stabilizing neighborhoods and creating jobs. “Ohio Open Doors shares stories of important landmarks and interesting sites right in our backyards, highlighting the history and unique nature of some of Ohio’s most treasured places,” said Amanda Schraner Terrell, Director of the Ohio History Connection’s State Historic Preservation Office.
The Ohio History Connection’s State Historic Preservation Office administers the National Historic Preservation Act in Ohio. Many of the landmarks featured in Ohio Open Doors events are in the National Register of Historic Places, which the National Historic Preservation Act created.