Ohio Village has been closed for months while crews work through a major renovation project at the historic site next to the Ohio History Center. This summer, fairgoers will get an early look at what has changed so far before construction continues toward a full reopening in 2027.
During the 2026 Ohio State Fair, which runs July 29 through August 9, Ohio Village will be open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is included with a State Fair ticket, and a free shuttle will run between the fairgrounds and the Ohio History Center throughout the day.
Visitors will be able to walk through the evolving Village Green and see several visible upgrades, including:
- Newly paved brick streets replacing the former gravel roads and boardwalks
- A redesigned central bandstand
- A Stable House with modern restrooms
- A new bier garten
- Expanded tree canopy and updated landscaping connecting the Ohio History Center and Ohio Village
The Ohio History Connection says the project is focused on more than aesthetics, with long-term plans to improve accessibility, expand programming and reimagine how visitors experience the living history site.
“The 8.5-acre site will evolve from a living history museum into a hub for education, leisure and accessibility,” Ohio History Connection Marketing Manager Neil Thompson told the Delaware Gazette.
The State Fair will also serve as a broader showcase for Ohio History Connection programming. The Ohio History Center will be an official fair entry point, where visitors can purchase tickets, access exhibits and take advantage of shuttle service between locations.
Inside the Ohio Showcase building on the fairgrounds, the organization will debut its new “Ohio’s Story” exhibit, along with dining and event space.
On July 31, Ohio Village will also host an America 250-Ohio-themed picnic from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., included with fair admission.
After the State Fair ends, Ohio Village will close again so construction can continue. It will reopen briefly for Halloween events on October 17 and 24, followed by winter programming on December 12 and 13. The full reopening is planned for 2027.
The result will be a version of Ohio Village that keeps its historic character while offering updated infrastructure and new ways for visitors to engage with Ohio history.
