The Historic Clifton Mill is one of the largest water-powered grist mills still in existence. Built in 1802, the mill was originally called the Davis Mill by its founder Owen Davis.
The Historic Clifton Mill was built in this location to take advantage of the natural power of the concentrated water funneled from the Little Miami River into the Clifton Gorge. The Satariano family purchased the mill in 1987 and continue to preserve its historical integrity. Today, you can still see the mill operate, converting natural water power into energy. Tour the facility to see early machinery, and see how stones are used to grind grain into flour. A visit to historic Clifton Mill is truly an educational experience that you and your family will long remember.
Where else can you enjoy the best in home-style cooking while savoring the atmosphere of yesteryear? Whether you are hungry for breakfast, lunch or dinner, their menu is guaranteed to please your palate! Enjoy their delicious pancakes for breakfast made from their own signature Clifton Mill Pancake Mixes, or come for lunch with a view. Their dinner menu changes with the season and their homemade pies and cookies are baked fresh daily.
The best part about a meal at the Clifton Mill Restaurant is you get to sit back, relax, and listen as the mill wheel turns, and water cascades over the falls. All of this while you look out over their covered bridge, surely one of the most beautiful natural views of the scenic Little Miami River.
Make sure to browse their charming gift shop, and take home your own bag of Clifton Mill Pancake Mix. The Gift Shop is decorated with antiques from a bygone era with the feel of the old fashioned general store.
The display starts the day after Thanksgiving and continues through New Year’s Day. Lights come on at 6pm and off at 9:30pm (weather permitting). Four million lights decorate the mill, gorge, falls and the grounds; a fantastic collection of over 3000 Santa Clauses; an outdoor miniature village includes replicas of a train station, moving light parade, diner, drive-in-movie, and OSU marching band; check out the live Santa tinkering in his workshop and going up the chimney every half hour; enjoy the musical covered bridge light show every hour on the hour. The Legendary Christmas Light Display will certainly get you in the Christmas spirit!!
National Award Winner 2018
“The Great Christmas Light Fight” ABC TV show.
