Honestly, if you're looking for West Alexandria attractions, you have to understand that this little town in the heart of Twin Township, Preble County, has more history than you would suspect at first sight. Founded in 1830 by a few brave pioneers who believed that the country was still undeveloped, the town has since developed into a quiet retreat for people who want to escape the city noise. I still remember the old railway line, which once formed the backbone of the trade – today a silent witness, which is only going on by hobby historians and occasional cyclists.
When you arrive by car, simply follow the State Route 127; the country roads here are so straight that you almost feel you're going through a painting. And yes, the next major station is in Dayton, but this is just a short way to go if you prefer the train. I don't understand the hype about the “small cities with charm” tours, but there are some cafés that have more personality than some metropolises. The people here are honest, the food is discreet, and the whole environment has this slightly nostalgic vibe, which at the same time calms you and brings you a bit to reflection – without excessive advertising promises.
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The first stop I couldn't miss was that Fort Loramie Historical Village, a small museum compact that sprays more charm than some big city box. Here you can find original buildings from the 19th century Stroll through the history of the old border post – and that without a crowded parking space embroidered the experience. I parked at the back of the field, where an old tractor almost already acted as an art object; On Saturdays, however, the field there will come to the meeting point for local tractor fans, so better early if you don't want to stand between hayballs and engine noises.
A short detour to Eaton brought me to Preble County Historical Society Museum. The building itself is a rebuilt school house that has more stories to tell than most visitors expect. I found an old diary there, which is reported by a peasant from the 1880s – a real find that loosens the dusty flair of the place. Parking is practically right in front of the museum, but the road is narrow, so it's better to use the small sideway when you're on the bike.
Further west, almost on the edge of the small town, lies the Great Miami River State Park. I must admit, I was skeptical if a state park in this area really has something to offer, but the river banks are surprisingly wide and the water glitters in the sunlight that breaks through the trees. There are a few easy hiking trails that are good for a short walk, and a small picnic place that is not overrun by tourists. Parking is free, but on weekends there are a few cars that block the only parking space – a little annoyance that can be shipped with a short detour.
A bit further north, almost towards Dayton, this is Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park. Here my slightly cynical vein meets the enthusiasm for aviation history: The park area is a patch carpet of historic buildings, including the old Wright-Brothers workshop building. I found an original tool there that still carries the traces of oil stains – a real eye-catcher for anyone who believes history is just dusty. Parking is well signposted, but on holidays there can be a small traffic jam because the visitor numbers suddenly shoot up.
Only a few miles further, right in the heart of Dayton, is the National Museum of the United States Air Force. I have visited the museum several times, but every time a new exhibit surprises me – this time it was a rare F-86 sabre I only knew from old photos. The terrain is huge, and parking is a children's game because there are several large parking spaces. A little hint: The cafeteria serves amazingly good sandwiches, so no reason to continue hungry.
Back near West Alexandria, but not in the place itself, this is Preble County Fairgrounds in Eaton. I visited the site during the autumn fair when the stands of local craftsmanship and the scent of burnt almonds were in the air. Parking is generous, but there are a few additional fees on the main days to check in advance. The atmosphere is authentic, and this is exactly what I appreciate in such places – not an exaggerated shine, but real land life.
A last, rather underestimated treasure is the piece of Miami and Erie Canal Trail, which runs just south of West Alexandria. The path is well developed and leads through wide fields, past old sluices, which still leave the water quietly. I discovered an old wooden boat there, which seems to have been on the shore for decades – a perfect photo motif for those who want to collect Instagram cookies. Parking is free at most access points, but on sunny weekends it can become full because cyclists and walkers want to share the same piece of land.
When you explore the surroundings of West Alexandria, you quickly discover that the West Alexandria Sights not only consist of a small town, but of a colourful mix of history, nature and authentic country life, which make every easy cynical traveller a little surprised.
I have to admit right at the beginning that what I am here as Top attractions not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but for me, the West Alexandria Public Library is the heart of this slept spot – and not only because I wrote my first poems there, but because the building itself breathes a piece of history that is not found every day. The old brick house from the 1920s stands in the middle of the village, and parking is almost always a Klacks, as long as you don't come on Saturday night, then this becomes a small adventure.
A short walk further lies the West Alexandria Community Park, a place I like to sign as “the green lung” because it is the only time I can really catch fresh air in West Alexandria without a tractor moaning in the background. There is a playground, a few baseball-diamonds and a small amphitheater that is used for local bands in the summer. I once made a picnic that was disturbed by a suddenly emerging swarm geese – a real highlight when one is nature fans.
If you are interested in history, the West Alexandria Historical Society Museum is a must. The museum is located in the old school building, which was built in 1905, and the exhibition is a mixture of local photographs, old maps and a few curious objects that I personally cannot fully understand – for example an antique dairy press model that has produced more dust than milk. I don't always understand the hype about such mini mouses, but here you suddenly feel part of a long past village community.
Another place I repeatedly mention is the West Alexandria United Methodist Church. The church is not only a church, but also an architectural jewel from the Victorian era, which impresses with its high windows and the artistic woodwork. I saw a concert there where a local choir was an old hymn book from the 19th century. Century sang – that was really great when you like the sound of wood and glass.
For those who prefer to find something active, there is the Twin Township Park, which is not huge, but has a well-maintained hiking trail and a small lake shore, where you can take a cool bath in the summer. I once tried to rent a canoe there with my friend – that didn't happen because the company had no boats at all, but that didn't stop us from simply planning in the shallow water.
A bit of local charm still comes from the West Alexandria Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday from 8 am to 12 pm on the village square. There are fresh vegetables, homemade jams and one or the other stand where an older couple sells homemade apple cakes – no joke, they are really good. I've been packing my shopping bag several times, just to find out later that I forgot the money for the food at home.
And because I must not forget, here is a short hint for all who googles to “West Alexandria Sights”: Most of these places are close to each other, so you can relax on foot or by bicycle. This not only saves money, but also gives you the feeling of being really in the village, instead of just driving through the area and staring at the sights from the car.
Finally, a personal tip: When you explore the village after sunset, take a look at the old town hall, which is not considered as a tourist magnet, but is immersed in a warm light at night by the street lights. I once met an old acquaintance who told me that he grew up here and still comes to the summer festival every year – that somehow reminded me that even the most inconspicuous places have their own stories, which are just waiting to be discovered.
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