Here’s a full look at Springfield, Ohio’s 2025 Summer Tour Series, organized by the Westcott Center for Architecture + Design — a beloved annual discovery series now in its 21st year.
📅 Series Overview
- What it is: A collection of 15 guided tours (walking, happy hour, family, virtual, members-only) exploring Springfield’s rich architecture, design, and history.
- When: May through September 2025.
- Who leads: Local architects, historians, curators, artists, and preservation professionals.
- Accessibility: Tours are graded 1–3 by mobility level (Level 1 = up to 6 blocks, mostly flat; Level 3 = longer walks potentially on gravel or inclines).
- Tickets: Vary by tour; Westcott members receive discounts or free access for certain tours. Book via WestcottHouse.org or the museum store — early purchase is strongly encouraged as spots fill quickly.
🎯 2025 Tour Schedule Highlights
| Date | Tour Title | Type | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 24 | Ferncliff Cemetery: Sacred & Symbolic | Walking Tour | 10:00 – 11:30 AM |
| June 6 | Downtown West | Happy Hour | 5:30 PM |
| June 7 | Rodgers Place | Walking Tour | 10:00 AM |
| June 11 | Springfield Burying Ground | Happy Hour | 5:30 PM |
| June 21 | Victorian SoFo | Walking Tour | 10:00 AM |
| June 26 | Bushnell Mansion | Virtual Tour | 4:00 PM |
| June 27 | Lenski Walk | Family Tour | 5:30 PM |
| June 28 | Progressive East High | Walking Tour | 10:00 AM |
| July 2 | Springfield Burying Ground | Happy Hour | 5:30 PM |
| July 9 | Weaver Chapel | Members‑Only Tour | 5:30 PM |
| July 19 | The Woods | Walking Tour | 10:00 AM |
| Aug 1 | Springfield Public Art | Happy Hour | 5:30 PM |
| Aug 9 | The Broadmoors | Walking Tour | 10:00 AM |
| Aug 14 | Downtown Victorian | Happy Hour | 5:30 PM |
| Sept 6 | Gilded East High | Walking Tour | 10:00 AM |
Note: The list might overlap or adjust — always check the Westcott site at WestcottHouse.org for the most accurate, updated schedule and ticket availability .
What to Expect and Why It’s a Must‑Do
- Diverse formats: Includes casual evening “Happy Hour” walks with a drink included, family-friendly strolls, immersive virtual deep-dives, and members-only or cemetery-themed experiences.
- Local insight: Guided by Springfield insiders who have thoroughly researched their subjects — for example, Rodgers Place reflects 100+ hours of research into its American‑story heritage.
- Historical treasures: Explore hidden neighborhoods (e.g., Victorian SoFo, The Woods), public art, restored cemeteries with Revolutionary War history, and grand architecture like Bushnell Mansion and East High Street mansions.
How to Register, What to Bring
- Register early online at WestcottHouse.org or via ShowClix (links provided on Westcott site).
- Tickets vary: Most walking/happy hour tours are around $15–$22; family tours are generally less; virtual is free; members-only tours are free for members.
- Bring essentials: Comfortable walking shoes, a drink (for Happy Hour tours, one drink is included), sun protection, maybe water. Virtual tours just need Zoom access.
✅ In Summary
Springfield’s Summer Tour Series is your passport to discovering hidden gems of local architecture, art, and history — led by passionate experts in formats to suit every interest. If you care about your built environment, enjoy curiosities of local lore, or simply love a good story with your stroll, this is the perfect way to spend a summer morning (or evening).
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