George Eberts, an expert on the history of the Athens Asylum or “The Ridges,” will lead an outdoor walking tour of the asylum grounds. The tour will last approximately two hours. Due to Ohio University restrictions, access to the inside of the buildings is limited, but you can tour the main entryway seen in the picture as well as the Kennedy Museum.

George will captivate you with his depth of knowledge as well as tell you the real stories of what life was like for the residents, as well as the employed, at the Asylum.

Hear about the resident Alligator, look at the names left carved into the woodwork and hear the sad tale of the “lost lady.” Your tour guide will fascinate you with how the “Lunatic” Asylum began as well as educate you on the history of mental health and psychiatry that made the Athens Asylum one of the largest in Ohio.

Rain Policy: We conduct the Asylum Tour in rain or shine so please bring appropriate clothing and umbrellas as conditions require.  Cancellation will take place only if dangerous weather such as lighting storm or high winds are active.  In winter months, if there is a level 2 or 3 snow emergency, the tour will be canceled as well.  In the event of cancellation, those with prepaid tickets can call us and choose either another tour or receive a refund.

All regularly scheduled tours are held on Sunday afternoons and start from the main steps of the Kennedy center located at the top of North Ridge Drive. 100 Ridges Circle is the address for Garmin and navigation tools.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call ACHS&M at 740-592-2280