One of the most unique vantage points in Mount Vernon, Ohio is the Rastin Observation Tower at Ariel-Foundation Park.

The observation tower is a steel, spiral staircase that coils around the tallest structure in Knox County, PPG’s industrial smoke stack built in 1951. The historical chimney served PPG from 1951 till it’s closing in 1979 and was constructed of reinforced concrete by the Slip Form Method.

As a significant feature of The Ruins, the observation tower offers guests a beautiful, unique view of Mount Vernon. The tower is 280 feet high with the observation deck at 140 feet above 224 steps. Ted Schnormeier, the park project director, along with Custom Cutters of Mount Vernon, designed the tower’s concept. It is named for Tom Rastin, Executive Vice President of Ariel Corporation, for his support of this project. The tower is located next to the Urton Clock House on Pittsburg Ave.

Learn more about being a Tower or Footbridge Lighting Partner.

 

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The highest view of beautiful Knox County available!

 

 

 Rental Venues

To reserve a venue or picnic pavilion, click here or call 740-501-9293.

Vision Statement
•    Ariel-Foundation Park will be a world class example of adaptive reuse that honors its industrial heritage and is the focal point for recreation, entertainment, and social interaction in Knox County.
Mission Statement
•    The mission of Foundation Park Conservancy is to be the main source of economic support for the preservation, development, programming, and promotion of Ariel-Foundation Park in collaboration with the City of Mount Vernon.

Park Info

 

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 Ariel-Foundation Park, located in Mount Vernon, Ohio, is a 250-acre civic park that offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors of all ages.

Visiting Hours

Ariel-Foundation Park is officially open April 1 through November 15. Some areas of the park are accessible to pedestrians year-round. Daily hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. There are no admissions or parking fees. The Rastin Observation Tower, park museum, picnic pavillions, trails and other park features are free and open to the public. The Rastin Observation Tower is open during winter months, as long as weather allows.

Contact Us

Foundation Park Conservancy
P.O. Box 644, Mount Vernon, OH 43050
[email protected]
740-501-9293

Mount Vernon City Parks Department
City Hall, 40 Public Square, Mount Vernon, OH 43050
[email protected]
740-393-9577

 
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