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This Amazing 13th Century-Style Village Is Just An Hour Away From Columbus

A little over an hour away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Columbus, you’ll find this amazing, 13th-century American Indian village and Archaeological Park.

Civilization in early America is so interesting. The Ohio region was home to several ancient peoples who left behind earthworks, as well as tools and pottery. But when it comes to seeing what life was actually like all of those years ago, no one does it better than SunWatch Indian Village.

SunWatch Indian Village is nestled along the Great Miami River in Dayton.

SunWatch building exterior with sign, surrounded by grass and trees
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Archaeological excavations in the 1970s and 80s lead to the discovery of this Fort Ancient period settlement. The village has now been partially reconstructed and acts as a unique learning experience for visitors.

Thatched-roof earthen dwellings at Sunwatch Indian Village with informational sign
via Facebook

You’ll start your visit to the village with an introductory film in the indoor theatre. Masks are required while indoors for all patrons ages 6 and over, regardless of vaccination status.

Person holds a carved bone tool among other bone artifacts on table
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Guests can gain a new appreciation for the 800-year-old lifestyle while walking through reconstructed buildings that have been placed in their exact, ancient locations.

Wattle fencing around garden plots with thatched huts in background
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The park hours vary by season. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and children ages 3-17, and kids under 3 are free.

Thatched-roof hut surrounded by trees at reconstructed village
via Facebook

In a more typical year, the park hosts many special events, including Day Camps, solstice sleepovers, archaeological fieldwork classes, and more.

Dancer in feathered regalia performs at outdoor powwow gathering
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For more information about visiting SunWatch Indian Village, please visit their website here.

Chelsea Wiley

Written by

Chelsea Wiley

Chelsea Wiley, first of her name, Queen of the Seven Andals... wait. That's not right. Joking aside, Chelsea is a writer and photographer born and raised in Columbus, Ohio. She is an avid reader and a lover of animals.