For the early arrivers in search of abundant minerals, the gateway to the Little Cities was Nelsonville via the Hocking Valley on the Columbus and Hocking Valley Railroad or the Hocking Canal.  Victorian era architecture on the Public Square and in adjacent neighborhoods has been preserved and creates by far the most prosperous example of the boom era in the Little Cities.  The restored Stuart’s Opera House (circa 1889) is host to concerts, plays and special events.  Over a dozen art galleries fill once vacated storefronts in the original “Little City,” so tabbed in the late 1800’s when it grew to over 8,000 residents.  Public Square comes to life in the evening on the Final Friday of each month.  Galleries stay open late as vendors, entertainment and special events bring folks from around the region and beyond to town.      
   Nelsonville provides modern amenities to travelers including lodging (The Inn @ Hocking College); Fullbrooks, an upscale coffee shop; the gourmet Rhapsody Restaurant, operated by Hocking College Culinary Arts students; and to- die- for gelato at Margo’s.  The Rocky Boot Outlet Store is a 3-story outdoor outfitter shopping experience that creates a major buzz in town, at the headquarters for this civic minded international shoemaker.    
   History comes to life at the Hocking Valley Scenic Railroad which runs the valley in period passenger cars on weekends throughout the summer and fall.  Call 1-800-967-7834 .  This is a great activity for kids. 
   Original brick kilns on SR 278 provide a glimpse at the region’s once prosperous paver brick industry, which  includes Nelsonville’s world famous Star Brick.