MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Marion America 250 Steering Committee, co-led by the Marion Community Foundation and the Marion Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, recently announced the launch of an innovative, year-long Thematic Trails Experience designed to connect residents and visitors to Marion County’s unique contributions to America’s past and present.

The initiative will feature 12 distinct, themed Trails—one for each month of 2026—all available to the public through both printed guides and a new mobile-friendly digital platform coming in January. The app will be available through the Apple Store and Google Play Store.  Printed guides will be distributed through the Visitor Center, 198 West Center Street, downtown Marion.  The goal is to encourage citizens to step out and explore the physical locations behind Marion’s American story.

Co-chair of the Marion initiative Kate McCleese stated, “Following the success of our $50,000 special grant program, we are now focusing on making history – and all that our community offers – engaging and accessible. These Trails transform a typical outing into an interactive scavenger hunt, revealing hidden stories about our community’s industry, arts, and civic life at every stop. Whether you prefer a map in your hand or a guide on your phone, we have a way for you to explore.'”

A New Way to Experience History

Each of the 12 Trails is built around a monthly theme and features a collection of specific points of interest across the county. The first Trail is scheduled to be released both in print and on a new mobile-friendly digital platform on January 1st followed by a new Trail released at the start of each month throughout 2026. These Trails are groups of related places, not strict paths you have to follow. Participants are invited to visit the sites in any order—one at a time, over several trips, or all in one day. 

Examples of monthly themes include: 

  • Marion’s Firsts & Originals Trail – This trail celebrates Marion’s pioneering spirit by exploring 10 key locations that represent national “firsts” and local originals, from political legends like Mary Ellen Withrow to world-changing industry and unique local food.
  • Marion Works: Innovation & Industry Trail – This trail celebrates Marion’s essential role as a center for innovation and labor, highlighting 10 active sites that range from the oldest continually operating manufacturer to the state’s leading robotics training center (RAMTEC), proving that the spirit of industry is alive and well in Marion County.
  • Marion Outdoors: Exploring Marion’s Natural Resources – This trail celebrates the county’s natural beauty and recreational access by leading explorers to 10 key greenspaces, from the challenging mountain bike trails at Quarry Park to the conserved prairies and historical waterways of the Olentangy River.

About Marion America 250

Marion America 250 is a collaborative effort co-led by the Marion Community Foundation and the Marion Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, dedicated to planning and promoting a year-long commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026. The mission is to celebrate the area’s history, honor the contributions of all residents, and inspire local civic pride for the next 250 years. For more information, please visit visitmarionohio.com/news/america-250.