6 Fun and Free Things to Do in Steubenville This Weekend
The Steubenville Public Library partnered with Strong Towns Steubenville to bring a movie night to Historic Fort Steuben, complete with movie themed crafts featuring ReCraft Steubenville!
Steubenville, our home sweet home, is packed with a rich history, surrounded by natural beauty in the Appalachian foothills and the Ohio River, and a supreme sense of community. It doesn’t matter if you’re a life-long townie, or a new transplant or somewhere in between, there’s always something happening around town. What’s great about Steubenville is most of these events are free, budget-friendly, family-friendly, and fun. This list of repeatable free things to do in Steubenville this and every weekend is exactly what you need to brainstorm your weekend activities!
1. Explore Historic Fort Steuben
If you’re a history buff or just looking for an educational way to spend your afternoon, Historic Fort Steuben should be at the top of your list. Located right in downtown Steubenville, this reconstructed 18th-century military fort gives you a glimpse into the area's past, complete with replica buildings, informative displays, and knowledgeable staff.
Fort Steuben offers free admission for children under 6 and cheap general admission to certain exhibits and is open to the public year-round. Walking through the fort transports you back to the early days of Ohio's settlement, making it an enriching experience for adults and kids alike.
Why It’s Great:
Learn about Steubenville’s role in early American history.
Free entry to the grounds and certain displays.
Located near other downtown attractions, making it easy to combine with other activities such as First Fridays and the Saturday Market on 4th!.
2. Walk the Steubenville Murals
Steubenville is known as the "City of Murals," with more than 25 beautiful works of art adorning the downtown buildings. The Steubenville Murals are a celebration of the town’s heritage, depicting everything from the city's industrial roots to its vibrant community spirit.
Grab a coffee and take a self-guided walking tour of the murals. You’ll find plenty of photo opportunities and learn about Steubenville’s history through these creative, large-scale artworks. This walk is perfect for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike and is a completely free way to enjoy your weekend while appreciating the talent and stories behind each mural.
Why It’s Great:
Free outdoor art walk.
Learn about Steubenville’s history in a visually engaging way.
Perfect for an Instagram-worthy photo tour.
3. Hike through Beatty Park
If you’re craving some fresh air and nature, Beatty Park is a great destination. This beautiful, historical park features walking trails, picnic areas, and plenty of green space to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It’s an ideal spot for families, couples, or solo adventurers looking for a peaceful retreat within the city.
Beatty Park’s trails are perfect for hiking, bird watching, or even a casual stroll. Plus, it’s pet-friendly, so bring your furry friend along! The park is free to enter, making it an excellent option for anyone seeking outdoor activities without spending money.
Why It’s Great:
Scenic hiking and walking trails.
Family- and pet-friendly.
Free access to all areas of the park.
4. Visit the Jefferson County Historical Museum
The Jefferson County Historical Museum is a hidden gem, offering a fascinating collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that tell the story of Steubenville and the surrounding area. Admission is free, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the rich history of this Ohio River town.
From local Native American history to exhibits on Steubenville’s industrial era, the museum has something for everyone. It’s a great way to spend a few hours indoors, especially on a rainy or chilly weekend.
Why It’s Great:
Free admission to the museum.
Diverse exhibits on local history.
Perfect for history enthusiasts or anyone interested in learning more about Steubenville.
5. Attend a Free Event at the Steubenville Public Library
The Public Library of Steubenville and Jefferson County offers a variety of free events, programs, and activities for all ages. Whether you're interested in a community book club, children’s storytime, or an adult workshop, there’s always something going on at the library.
The library also offers a cozy environment for reading, free Wi-Fi, and access to various resources. It’s the perfect place to spend a quiet afternoon, engage in learning, or meet new people in the community.
Why It’s Great:
Free events and programs for all ages.
Access to books, computers, and resources.
Quiet, relaxing environment with no entry fee.
Free museum passes that you can “check out” for museums around the region!
Photo by I Heart Steubenville at First Fridays by the Harmonium Project.
6. Stroll Along the Ohio River at Steubenville Marina
The Steubenville Marina, located along the Ohio River. This scenic spot is perfect for a peaceful walk, watching the boats, or simply sitting by the water and enjoying the views. It’s one of the best places in town to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of the area. The infrastructure around the marina has definitely seen better days, and there is hope for the future of the marina with big pushes for revitalization for the entire East End of Steubenville.
If you’re looking to get active, bring your bike and take a ride along the river, or pack a picnic and make an afternoon out of it. The marina also offers beautiful views of the sunset, making it an excellent spot for a quiet evening outdoors.
Why It’s Great:
Scenic waterfront views and walking paths.
Ideal for a free, relaxing afternoon or evening.
Great spot for a peaceful picnic or sunset stroll.
Image by The Steubenville Nutcracker Village
Honorable Mentions (IYKYK)
First Fridays on 4th by The Harmonium Project: Enjoy live music by local bands, food trucks, handmade crafts, and more up and down 4th street on the 1st Friday of every month May-October 6pm until 10pm. More info here. Most of the businesses on 4th also collaborate and participate on First Fridays as well offering unique events and activities to coincide with the festival!
The Saturday Market on 4th Street: Every 3rd Saturday morning from 10am until 1pm you can expect live music, great shopping, food trucks, activities for the kids, and a great local market! More info here. Most of the businesses on 4th also collaborate and participate on First Fridays as well offering unique events and activities to coincide with the market!
The Nutcracker Village: An event beloved by thousands, the Nutcracker village in Steubenville has free admission to see the Nutcrackers around town between November 26th and January 10th.The same people who bring you the Nutcracker Village also have the Spring Easter Eggsibition and Catfish Crawl Artwalk tours as well! More info here.
Bonus Tip: Support Local Businesses While Enjoying These Free Activities
While all of the activities on this list are free, consider supporting local businesses while you’re out and about in Steubenville. Grab a coffee from a local café before your mural walk, pick up a taco lunch at a family-owned restaurant, or browse downtown shops during your weekend adventures. By doing so, you’re not only enjoying all that Steubenville has to offer, but also helping to support the local economy.