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Say hello to Visit Northwest Ohio! Visit Northwest Ohio is made up of destinations, Chambers of Commerces, Visitors Bureaus, and other organizations throughout Northwest Ohio that share the same goal of promoting NWO and everything it has to offer. You can experience history brought to life, food that will leave you full and happy, and sights that will take your breath  away all in one region and all within driving  dista nce of another. Whether you are looking  for an exciting day trip, a weekend getaway, a week long group trip, or just to explore your own backyard, there is truly something for everyone in Northwest Ohio! Start exploring, the adventures await you!

Mission S tate m ent Build brand awareness and grow visitation to northwest Ohio’s many attractions through the collaborative marketing efforts of regional tourism entities leading to economic growth.

Vision Statement Position northwest Ohio as a preferred destination to visitors from around the country and beyond by showcasing our exceptional attractions, events and unique landscape.

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Northwest Ohio

Enjoy northwest ohio’s tourist attractions, fests, and events in toledo, sandusky, and small-town destinations, too. visit cedar point, put-in-bay, the lake erie islands, waterparks, beaches, lighthouses, and more..

Festivals & Events Super-Souper Wine Trail (Jan/Feb) Merry-Go-Memories (February) Oak Harbor Easter Egg Hunt (March) Biggest Week in Amer Birding (May) Port Clinton Walleye Festival (May) Historic Home & Garden Tour (June) Maria Stein Country Fest (June) Pork Rind Festival (June) Put-In-Bay Pyrate Festival (June) All Washed Up Driftwood (July) BG Community Fireworks (July) Celina Lake Festival (July) Chalk It Up (July) County Fairs (July) Ironman 70.3 (July) Toledo Lighthouse Festival (July) Bucyrus Bratwurst Festival (Aug) County Fairs (Aug) Lincoln Highway Yard Sale (Aug) Ntl Tractor Pull Championships (Aug) Pemberville Free Fair (Aug) Toledo Jeep Fest (Aug) Melon Festival (Aug/Sept) Alumapalooza (Sept) Black Swamp Arts Fest (Sept) County Fairs (Sept) Popcorn Festival (Sept) Rebel Run Lima (Sept) Tiffin-Seneca Heritage Festival (Sept) Lake Eerie FearFest (Oct) Leaders Family Farm Fall Events (Oct) Oak Harbor Apple Fest (Oct) Woollybear Festival (Oct) Bowling Green Holiday Parade (Nov) Holiday Lights Grand Illumination (Nov) Christmas of Yesteryear (Dec) Christmas Trains (Dec) Maria Stein Shrine (Dec)  Winter Wonderland Parade (Dec) New Year’s Eve Walleye Drop (Dec) Best Ohio Christmas Destinations

Performing Arts & Theater Renaissance Theatre Ritz Theatre 

Tours & Demonstrations The Canal Experience Historic Jail & Dungeon Tours Lincoln Highway Historic Byway Ohio State Reformatory Tours Ohio Caverns Old Woman Creek Sandusky County Barn Mural Trail Spangler Candy Company

Miscellaneous Fun African Safari Wildlife Park Black Swamp Bird Observatory Butterfly House Fremont Speedway Ghostly Manor Thrill Center Glacial Grooves Ghoul Runnings Kayak Adventures Grand Lake St. Marys Lake Erie Lighthouses Maumee Bay Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center Sorrowful Mother Shrine Toledo ZOO Ohio State Parks Waggoner’s Run Mountain Bike Trail

Wineries & Vineyards Copper Whale Winery D&D Smith Winery Stoney Ridge Winery

Restaurants & Eateries Big Ed’s Soda Grill The Loch Restaurant Kewpee Hamburgers Put-In-Bay Eateries & Restaurants Schmucker’s Restaurant The Spot Restaurant Tony Packo’s Cafe

Great Ohio Towns Bucyrus Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands Lima Marion Milan Port Clinton Sandusky Toledo Vermilion

Museums & Halls of Fame Bicycle Museum of America Buckeye Telephone Museum Chocolate Cafe & Museum Glass Heritage Gallery Imagination Station Merry-Go-Round Museum Museum of Postal History Ntl. Construction Equipment Museum Ohio Veterans Home Museum Tiffin Glass Museum Toledo Firefighters Museum Wyandot Popcorn Museum

Art Museums & Botanical Gardens Kingwood Center Stranahan Arboretum Temple of Tolerance Toledo Botanical Garden Toledo Museum of Art Wassenberg Art Center

Planes, Trains & Automobiles Airstream Factory Tour Armstrong Air & Space Museum B&O Railroad Museum Blessing of the Fleet Christmas Trains Harrod Railroad Heritage Park Lake Erie Sailing School Lincoln Park Railway Exhibit Mad River & NKP Railroad Museum Marion Union Station National Museum of the Great Lakes Northwest Ohio Railroad Snook’s Dream Cars

Historical Museums & Sites Allen County Museum  Fallen Timbers Fort Amanda Fort Meigs Historic Site Fort Recovery State Museum Heritage Hall – Marion Inscription Rock Lake Erie Island Museum Lima Firefighters Memorial Museum Mercer County Historical Museum Ohio Libraries Van Wert County Historical Museum Wood County Museum

Historic Homes, Villages & Farms Agricultural Museum & Village Edison Birthplace Museum Follet House Museum Historic Lyme Village Johnston Farm & Indian Agency Lockkeepers House Manor House Hardin County Historical Museums  Harding Presidential Sites Maria Stein Shrine of the Holy Relics Piatt Castle Mac-A-Cheek Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center Sauder Village Toledo’s Historic Old West End

Lodging & Getaways Captain Montague’s B&B RoseGate Cottage B&B Marion, Ohio Put-In-Bay Park Hotel Shelby/Mansfield KOA The Inn at Ohio Northern Univ Triple T Bed & Breakfast

Indoor Water Parks Castaway Bay Great Wolf Lodge Kalahari Resorts

Unique Ohio Shopping Candy Cane Christmas Shoppe Hawkes Crystal

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AREA ATTRACTIONS

Harrod Railroad Heritage Park  Napoleon Road, Harrod, OH website

YEARLY FESTIVALS AND EVENTS:

• Pork Rind Festival (June)

ERIE COUNTY

Cedar Point 1 Cedar Point Dr., Sandusky, OH 44870 419-627-2350 | website

Follett House Museum of Sandusky Library 404 Wayne St. Sandusky, OH 44870 sanduskylib.org

Maritime Museum of Sandusky  125 Meigs St., Sandusky, OH sanduskymaritime.org

Merry Go Round Museum 301 Jackson St., Sandusky, OH 448701 419-626-6111 | Facebook page 

• Berlin Heights Basket Festival (August)

MAJOR CITIES: Berlin Heights, Huron, Kelleys Island, Sandusky

DEFIANCE  COUNTY

Old Fort Defiance Park 320 Fort St. Defiance. OH

• Lilac Festival & Street Fair  (May)
• Thunder on the River (June)
• Rib Fest (September)

MAJOR CITIES: Defiance

FULTON COUNTY

Fayette opera House 105 East Main St., Fayette, OH 43521 operahouse-fayette.org

Sauder Village 22611 State Route 2, Archbold, OH  43502 419-446-2541 | website

• Archbold Fall Festival
• Wauseon Homecoming

MAJOR CITIES: Archbold, Fayette, Wauseon

HURON COUNTY

Summit Motorsports Park 1300 OH-18, Norwalk, OH  44857 419-668-5555 |  website

MAJOR CITIES:   Monroeville, New London, Norwalk, Wakeman, Willard

LOGAN COUNTY

PIATT CASTLE MAC-O-CHEEK 10051 Township Road 47, West Liberty, OH 43357 937.465.2821 | piattcastle.org

MAJOR CITIES:

LUCAS COUNTY

Visitor Bureau – Toledo CVB

Imagination Station One Discovery Way, Toledo, OH 43604 419-244-2674 | website

National Museum of the Great Lakes 1701 Front St., Toledo, OH  43605 419-214-5000 | website

Toledo Museum of Art 2445 Monroe St., Toledo, OH  43620 419-255-8000 |  toledomuseum.org

Toledo Police Museum 2201 Kenwood Blvd., Toledo, OH 43606 419-720-2485 | toledopolicemuseum.com

Toledo Zoo & Aquarium 2 Hippos Way, Toledo, OH 43609 419-385-57221 | toledozoo.org

MAJOR CITIES: Toledo

MARION COUNTY

Explore-It-Torium 244 S. Main St., Marion, OH 740-205-9097 | exploreitmarion.org

Harding Memorial  Corner of Delaware Ave. & Vernon Heights Blvd., Marion 740-387-9630 | website The final resting place of President and Mrs. Warren G. Harding is the largest and most beautiful presidential memorial outside of Washington D.C.

Huber Museum 220 East Fairground Street, Marion, OH 740.387.9233 |  Facebook

Marion Palace Theatre 276 West Center St., Marion, OH 740-383-2101 |  marionpalace.org

Mysterious Revolving Ball  520 Delaware Ave., Marion, OH 740-387-7050

“For more than 100 years, a 5,200 pound ball of polished granite making the grave of Charles Merchant has been slowly rotating on a pedestal in the Marion Cemetery.”

Wyandot Popcorn Museum  169 East Church Street, Marion, OH wyandotpopcornmus.com

• Popcorn Festival

OTTAWA COUNTY

African Safari Wildlife Park 267 S. Lightner Rd., Port Clinton, OH  43452 419-732-3606 | website

Liberty Aviation Museum  3515 E. State Rd., Port Clinton, OH 43452 419.732.0234 | libertyaviationmuseum.org

Schedel Gardens 19255 W Portage River Rd., Elmore, OH 419-862-3182 | website

MAJOR CITIES: Elmore, Port Clinton,

SANDUSKY COUNTY

Clyde Historical Museum 124 West Buckey St., Clyde, OH  42410 419-547-7946 | w ebsite

Creek Bend Farm State Route 590, Lindsey, OH 43442 419-334-4495 |  website

Fremont Speedway 901 Rawson Ave., Fremont, OH  43420 419-307-4241 | website

Hayes Presidential Center Spiegel Grove, Fremont, OH 43420 419-332-2081 | website

Historic Lyme Village 5001 Rt. 4, Bellevue, OH  44811 419-483-4949 | website

Mad River & NKP Railroad Museum 253 South West St., Bellevue, OH 44811 419-483-2222 |  madrivermuseum.org

Mull Covered Bridge  County Road 9, Fremont, OH 43420 419-334-4495 |  website

Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums Spiegel Grove, Fremont, OH 43420 419-332-2081 | website 

Sandusky County Jail and Dungeon Tours 622 Croghan Street, Fremont, OH 43420 website

MAJOR CITIES:  Fremont,

SENECA COUNTY

American Civil War Museum of Ohio 217 S. Washington St., Tiffon, OH 419-455-9551 | website

Attica Raceway Park 100 Fairgrounds Rd., Attica, OH 419-426-8911 | website 

Fostoria Area Historical Society Museum 123 W. North St., Fostoria, OH 567-245-5322

Glass Heritage Gallery 109 N. Main St., Fostoria, OH 419-435-5077 | website

Seneca Caverns  26359 E. TR 178, Bellevue, OH 419-483-6711 | senecacavernsohio.com

Seneca County Museum 28 Clay St., Tiffin, OH 419-447-5955 | senecacountymuseum.com

MAJOR CITIES:  Fostoria, Tiffin

WOOD COUNTY

BGSU Planetarium Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, OH 419-372-2421 |  website Shows from September to early May, and stargazing from the observatory roof. 

Black Swamp Bird Observatory 13551 W. S.R. 2, Oak Harbor, OH 43449 419-898-4070 | bsbo.org

Black Swamp Preserve 1014 S. Maple Bowling Green, OH 43402 419-353-1897 | website

Carter Historic Farm 18331 Carter Road, Bowling Green, OH 43402 419-353-1897 | website

National Construction Equipment Museum 16623 Liberty Hi Road, Bowling Green, OH 43402 419-352-5616 | website 

Simpson Garden Park 1291 Conneaut Ave., Bowling Green, OH 43402 419-354-6223 | website 

Snook’s Dream Cars 13920 County Home Road, Bowling Green, OH  43402 419-353-8338 | website 

Wintergarden/ St. John’s Nature Preserve 615 S. Wintergarden Road Bowling Green, OH 43402 419-354-6223 | website

Wood County Historical Center and Museum 13660 County Home Road Bowling Green, OH 43402 419-352- 0967 | website

• Black Swamp Festival

MAJOR CITIES : Bowling Green

Northwest Ohio

• 3.1 State Parks and Resort Lodges
• 4.1 Geography
• 4.2 Agriculture
• 4.3 Industrialization
• 5.1 By plane
• 5.3 By train
• 6.2 By bike
• 7.1 Museums
• 12 Stay safe
• 13.1 Major Cities
• 13.2 Regions

Northwest Ohio includes areas of the state bordering Michigan and Indiana .

Counties [ edit ]

Defiance County, Fulton County, Hancock County, Henry County, Huron County, Paulding County, Putnam County, Seneca County, Williams County, Wood County

Cities [ edit ]

• 41.042778 -83.642222 1 Findlay - Flag city USA, and the seat of Hancock County.
• 40.8939 -83.8917 2 Bluffton
• 41.1383 -83.6492 3 Van Buren - A quiet village with a large state park.
• 41.2431 -82.6114 4 Norwalk
• 40.9194 -84.06 5 Columbus Grove
• 41.1169 -83.1789 6 Tiffin - An industrial city and seat of Seneca county.
• 41.5522 -84.1392 7 Wauseon
• 41.373889 -83.650833 8 Bowling Green - A college town, and seat of Wood County.
• 41.550278 -83.63 9 Perrysburg - A small city and suburb of Toledo.
• 41.593611 -83.568056 10 Rossford
• 41.472778 -84.551944 11 Bryan
• 41.2819 -84.3628 12 Defiance - The seat of Defiance county in the far northwest.
• 41.1592 -83.4153 13 Fostoria - A city crossed by railroads.
• 41.391944 -84.126667 14 Napoleon
• 41.5831 -84.6042 15 Montpelier
• 41.1417 -84.5814 16 Paulding

Other destinations [ edit ]

State parks and resort lodges [ edit ].

For camping and getaway rental reservations on any of Ohio's Parks tel. 1-866-644-6727.

• Harrison Lake State Park , Fulton County , 26246 Harrison Lake Road, Fayette. 175 campsites, 150 have electric hook-ups, showers, flush toilets, two Rent-A-Yurt units, non-powered watercraft, fishing, 3.5-mile hiking trail , volleyball, basketball courts, horseshoe pits, swimming, fishing, and canoeing.
• Mary Jane Thurston State Park , Henry County , northeast of McClure at 1-466 State Route 65, on the Maumee River. 35 non-electric campsites, twenty miles of open water for boating, two launch ramps, marina, fishing, hunting, one-mile portion of the Buckeye Trail, six miles of trails in the North Turkeyfoot Area, backpacking, horseback riding or mountain biking.

• Van Buren State Park , northern Hancock County , north of Findlay , east of Van Buren at 12259 Township Rd. 218. 27 non-electric sites, tables, fire rings, pit latrines, drinking water, playground, outdoor amphitheater, horseshoe pit, hiking, multi-purpose trail, nature center, lake, pet camping, horseman’s camp with 33 non-electric campsites, fishing, hunting, fishing, hunting, volleyball courts and horseshoe pits.

Understand [ edit ]

Geography [ edit ]

Due to glacial movements, the land here is incredibly flat, and low lying - It is easy to see for miles, and it isn't uncommon to hear some locals call inclines as short as several feet hills.

Agriculture [ edit ]

Northwest Ohio was one of the last areas of Ohio settled by Europeans, due to the vast Great Black Swamp that dominated the land after the glaciers receded. The swamp was slowly cut down and drained over time, and was re-purposed as fertile farmland. To this day, the majority of the land in this area is used to grow corn, soy and other crops. Bits of the swamp still exist in some parks, and it's common to see businesses, public art, and sports team mascots named after or inspired by the swamp.

Industrialization [ edit ]

In the 1880's oil and natural gas was discovered in this area, leading to a few boom towns becoming proper small cities. Though none grew into a metropolis, they often have grand public buildings and Victorian painted ladies that were paid for with a glut of oil money. Though the oil dried up due to wasteful practices the initially cheap gas attracted industry to the area, particularly companies in the glass and energy sectors. A few of these companies stuck around to this day - a few towns are known for their glassware, and early wind farms were established in this area.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ].

The nearest airport with regularly scheduled flights is the Toledo Express Airport ( TOL  IATA ) in Toledo. Most travelers will fly in at a major airport in a neighboring region such as the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport ( CLE  IATA ) or the Detroit Metro Airport ( DTW  IATA )

For travelers who are pilots, there are a number of minor General aviation airports in the area, most of which offer paved runways, fueling, and hanger services.

By car [ edit ]

I75 is a major interstate that goes through this region from north to south.

I80/I90 goes east to west as the Ohio Turnpike, a toll road. The turnpike is well maintained, and has large plaza rest areas with convenience stores, restaurants, and restrooms. Tolls are based on distance traveled, so don't loose the ticket provided on entry.

Two lane paved country roads are the primary links between cities in this area.

By train [ edit ]

Amtrak has a stop in Bryan, Ohio, and a larger station in Toledo.

Get around [ edit ]

The majority of area travel is done by car. Parking is usually free. In the few downtown areas that use meters it is relatively cheap.

Electric cars may have difficulty finding dedicated charging stations outside cities on I-75.

By bike [ edit ]

The geography of Northwest Ohio is noticeably flatter then the rest of the state. This makes cycling a breeze provided there is no significant headwind, and changing gears is rarely needed.

See [ edit ]

Museums [ edit ].

• Ashland County Historical Society , 420 Center St. .  
• Hancock Historical Museum , 422 West Sandusky.
• Black Heritage Library and Multicultural Center , 817 Harmon St. .  
• The Firelands Museum , 4 Case Ave. .  
• Seneca County Museum , 28 Clay Street. .  
• Tiffin Glass Museum & Shoppe , 25-27 S. Washington St. .  

Do [ edit ]

• National Tractor Pulling Championships , in Bowling Green .
• Summit Motorsports Park in Norwalk .

Eat [ edit ]

Northwest Ohio is not known for any particular dish. However, as a breadbasket region, the food here is very fresh. Farmer stands are a chance to try very fresh corn on the cob, apple cider, and other agricultural produce.

Drink [ edit ]

Beer is king here, though spirits, cider, and wine are also widely available.

Sleep [ edit ]

Along I-75 and Turnpike exits, there are plenty of hotels to choose from, from family hotels to the lower end of luxury. Outside these areas lodging options are typically limited to campgrounds, farmhouse bed and breakfasts, motels, and smaller hotels.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Due to the flat terrain winds can be strong, and areas near rivers can flood easily. The Lake Effect from Lake Erie can also make winter weather stronger in the counties near the lake. Be aware of the weather.

Go next [ edit ]

Major cities [ edit ].

• Indianapolis

Regions [ edit ]

• Ohio Erie shore west
• Lake Erie Islands
• West Central Ohio
• Northern Indiana
• Southeast Michigan

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• Five Northwest Ohio Gardens & Grounds Worth Exploring

Five Northwest Ohio Gardens & Grounds Worth Exploring 

Spring and summer are the perfect time to discover some of the best blooms in northwest ohio.

Spring and early summer are the perfect time to discover some of the best blooms in Northwest Ohio. Explore our list of family-friendly gardens, parks and attractions with some of the prettiest paths in the region and plan a visit to spend time among the flowers, butterflies and fellow garden visitors.

Toledo Botanical Garden

A museum for plants, Toledo Botanical Garden offers visitors the opportunity to discover and enjoy nature’s beauty free of charge. Explore 60 acres along winding trails, traversing bridges and ponds and enjoy the beauty and tranquility while exploring and reflecting. Green thumbs come to the Garden to learn more about the varieties of annuals and perennials nestled within the various beds and look for ways to incorporate new ideas into their home landscapes. 

Wildwood Preserve

Natural beauty and manmade elegance come together as one at Wildwood Preserve , the most visited of Metroparks Toledo . The 493-acre park is home to the former estate of Toledo’s Stranahan family. Surrounded by natural habit, the stately home, now called the  Manor House , is available for tours and played an important role in Toledo—and the park's—history. Stroll freely around the beautifully manicured grounds surrounding the home, including the garden featuring walking paths, fountains and gazebos on the east side of the mansion.

Welles Sculpture Garden at TMA

Dedicated in 2001 as part of the Toledo Museum of Art’s centennial celebration, the Georgia and David K. Welles Sculpture Garden is a must see for any art enthusiast. Located in front of the TMA, this beautifully landscaped setting features 21 modern and contemporary sculptures ranging from figurative to abstract. The garden’s arcing walkway links the main Museum building’s three front terraces, and provides visitors with a variety of outdoor experiences with art and beautifully landscaped grounds.

Schedel Arboretum & Gardens

A nature experience unlike any other in Northwest Ohio, Schedel Arboretum & Gardens is a breathtaking 17 acre garden estate. Located just 30 minutes southeast of Toledo, explore gardens of nearly 20,000 annuals, roses, perennials, irises and lilies, including a Japanese garden complete with Torii, waterfall, pools, lanterns, bridges and a pagoda. You must see it to believe the natural and awe-inspiring beauty of Schedel.

Spiegel Grove

The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museums is located within 25-acres of the President's original estate known as Spiegel Grove . Guests can walk along the scenic paved trails through the wooded acreage with mature trees and plenty of greenery. Landmarks not to miss include six sets of gates that were originally located at the White House and President and Mrs. Hayes burial site marked with a granite tombstone.

Share your beautiful photos and adventures with the world and tag us at @toledocvb and use #ThisIsToledo on Facebook , Instagram and  Twitter .

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Toledo, OH 43604

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Rooted in Ohio

14 Best Winter Things to Do in Northwest Ohio to Enjoy the Chilly Season

Northwest Ohio is a one-of-a-kind place, with many towns situated within driving distance of Lake Erie. So close to the Great Lakes, this part of the state is known for its summer tourism. But winter is also a great time to visit. If you are looking for fun winter things to do in Northwest Ohio , look no further! 

Excellent Winter Things to Do in Toledo Ohio

Enjoy some winter horseback riding.

Whether you have experience riding horses or not, you can enjoy an afternoon on horseback in Toledo! At Marmon Valley Farm, you’ll find a team of 150 horses and trail guides. Visitors ages 6 and up are welcome to join riding lessons or, even better, take a guided ride on the trail.

During the winter, the view is particularly beautiful with the surrounding farmland and forest covered in snow, offering the chance to see unique wildlife. The team at Marmon Valley Farm strives to match each rider with the ideal horse, both in size and temperament.

If you love spending time in nature — even during the winter — this is a perfect day trip to experience winter things to do in Northwest Ohio!

Go Ice Skating at Ottawa Park

There’s nothing better than ice skating under a fresh, cold winter sky. Ottawa Park in Toledo is one of the top spots in the area to enjoy this classic winter experience.

The park is the most beautiful and popular in the city, with a large green area and gorgeously-maintained amenities. And visitors can enjoy getting some exercise on the outdoor skating rink while looking over the surrounding vistas.

You’ll also find other events going on at the ice rink, such as community hockey games. The rink is only open as long as weather permits, so don’t waste the chance to visit this popular spot! 

You can check out a lot of other winter things to do in Toledo Ohio too, such as the Toledo Museum of Art and the National Museum of the Great Lakes. And if you visit outside of the winter months, you’ll find even more things to do in Toledo !

Best Sandusky Ohio Winter Things to Do

Hit up an indoor water park.

You might not think about going to a water park in Northwest Ohio in the middle of winter. But in Sandusky, one of the water park capitals of the world, the fun doesn’t stop when the temperature drops. Instead, visitors flock to the biggest indoor water park in the state.

Kalahari Resorts in Sandusky features 173,000 square feet of indoor water fun, which means that you can visit at any time of the year . You’ll spend hours exploring the pools, waterslides, flow rider, lazy river, water spas, and play areas for toddlers.

There’s even a swim-up bar for grown-ups, ensuring good times for the entire family.

Attend Sandusky Winter Wonderland  

Every year before the holiday season, the Sandusky County Fairgrounds is transformed into a winter wonderland. The event continues throughout the month of December with new activities and events every day.

In addition to light displays, you’ll find goods made by local vendors, crafts for kids, delicious treats, and of course, a meeting with Santa. Thanks to the extra-long nature of the event, you have plenty of time to see all the sights, no matter what you’re interested in.

This family-friendly event is free and open to the public, welcoming visitors of all ages to celebrate the holidays.

Visit Marblehead Lighthouse

Marblehead Lighthouse and Marblehead Lighthouse State Park are some of the most famous tourist attractions in Sandusky. During winter, it’s one of the most breathtaking winter things to do in Northwest Ohio.

In fact, they’re a downright must-see and attract thousands of visitors for the one-of-a-kind view over Lake Erie and Sandusky Bay. Visitors have the chance to view the frozen lake and breathtaking ice formations on the shores.

Marblehead Lighthouse is the perfect place to get a view, which is why the attraction remains open all year. The building itself is a fascinating piece of history, dating from the early 19th century and staffed by many generations of lighthouse keepers.

Awesome Winter Things to Do in Lima Ohio

Bring your kids to a winter extravaganza  .

When the weather gets cold, kids tend to go stir crazy inside. If you are in Lima, don’t just sit in the house. Bundle up your kids for the annual Winter Extravaganza.

This kid-centered event takes place at Ottawa Metro Park and features all kinds of outdoor winter fun , including sledding and hot cocoa. If there’s no snow on the ground, the event transitions into an outdoor nature hike and wildlife scouting activity.

This event is the perfect way to get your kids out of the house and expend their energy in the crisp winter air!

Attend Lima Holiday Fest

When it comes to celebrating the holidays, the town of Lima Ohio knows what it’s doing. This annual event is free to the public and takes place in the center of downtown. It kicks off with a parade to welcome Santa and is followed by a special breakfast for kids of all ages.

The rest of the day has offerings for all attendees, with everything from entertainment to crafts, games, gifts, and plenty of good food. The lineup of participating businesses changes annually, so you can always find something new and exciting at Lima Holiday Fest!

Fantastic Bowling Green Ohio Winter Things to Do

See a show at bowling green state university.

Bowling Green State University’s College of Musical Arts keeps things rolling all winter long with plenty of amazing musical performances. These range from Christmas concerts to symphonies and much more. The events feature both performers from the university and visiting shows on tour.

At Bowling Green State University, you might have the chance to see shows like the BG Philharmonia performing Winter Dreams, student recitals, and a wide variety of other holiday-themed performances.

Things are never idle at the College of Musical Arts, where you can find shows, concerts, and solo acts performing all year long, including throughout the winter. You can find ticket information on the university website.

Celebrate All Things Wintry at the Winterfest BG Chillabration

Don’t think that frigid temperatures will keep Bowling Green residents from celebrating the winter season in style. In fact, they welcome the ice and snow with the annual Winterfest BG Chillabration!

This winter festival usually takes place over a weekend in February and features all kinds of chilly activities, including live ice sculpting demonstrations, horse-drawn carriage rides through the snow, and a Frostbite Fun Run.

Of course, there are plenty ways to warm up too, including live music, ice skating, a chili cook-off, and indoor activities. Adults can visit the Frozen Swamp Tent for beer, wine, and music.

Best Winter Things to do in Findlay Ohio

Go skating at the cube  .

The Cube is arguably one of the most well-known institutions in Findlay. It has been in operation since 1974 and serves as a central event space for the town. This enormous ice arena draws visitors throughout the year, including well into the winter.

You can find open ice skating, as well as hockey games, figure skating lessons, and much more. The facility also offers adaptive skating and can fit a grand total of 2,400 visitors at a time! If you love ice skating, hockey, or any other ice sports, you need to visit The Cube while staying in Findlay.

Hop on the North Pole Express

The annual North Pole Express event is one of the most popular in Findlay, drawing visitors of all ages year after year! This quarter-scale train takes visitors through a winter snowscape like none you’ve ever seen before, including holiday light displays and seasonal decorations.

The train even runs on certain nights throughout December, offering a magical outlook. Take the kids to see Santa after the ride, or stop into the train museum, which features hundreds of toy trains and plenty of fascinating history about the area.

The whole experience is a wonderful winter family vacation activity!

A Unique Put-in-Bay Ohio Outdoor Winter Activity

Go ice fishing from an atv.

Even if you’re an experienced angler, you’ve probably never gone fishing like this before! In Put-in-Bay, you can go fishing through the ice from an ATV.

Put-in-Bay experiences harsh winters thanks to the unique climate of the Great Lakes, and its inhabitants know how to make the best of the frigid temperatures. When the ice thickens, local anglers have their own way to get out on the water — they pack up ATVs and hit the ice.

If you’re fortunate enough to experience a Put-in-Bay winter, you won’t want to miss this experience. It’s one of the most unique winter things to do in Northwest Ohio!

A Fun Winter Activity to Do in Marion Ohio

Shop locally at the winter craft show.

If you’re looking for gifts for the approaching holidays, the Winter Craft Show in Marion is worth the road trip. This annual event draws craftspeople of all kinds to show off their wares.

You never know what you’ll find here, from paintings to pottery, embroidery, knitted goods, and much more. It’s the perfect way to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts and support local artists as you do.

A Perrysburg Ohio Family Favorite Winter Thing to Do

Participate in a professional ice carving competition.

Have you ever wanted to be a professional ice carver? Probably not. But visiting the Perrysburg Winterfest offers the chance to not only witness a live ice carving competition but also take part in it yourself, should the moment strike you!

Of course, that isn’t the only attraction at the Winterfest. You’ll also find live music and good food and drinks to enjoy while celebrating the season throughout the weekend, making it one of the best winter things to do in Northwest Ohio.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Things to Do in Northwest Ohio

Where can you go sledding in toledo.

There are several great sledding hills in Toledo. Some of the most popular include Blue Creek, Side Cut, and Pearson Metropark, which includes lighted trails for night sledding.

What is there to do in Ohio in January?

Don’t think that things slow down after the holiday season. Northwest Ohio has plenty of January events. Popular ones include the Toledo Walleye Winterfest, events at the Toledo art museum, and live music events in Sandusky. You could even watch ice carving, go fishing, or shop at a craft show.

Find More Winter Things to Do in Ohio

While there are plenty of winter things to do in Northwest Ohio, there’s so much more to explore throughout the Buckey State. From festivals and outdoor activities, you can indulge in a plethora of Ohio winter things to do when the temperature drops.

Winter Things to Do in Northwest Ohio to Enjoy the Chilly Season

Born and raised in Ohio, Matt Heffner loves to share his knowledge of the state at the heart of it all. Founder and chief explorer of Rooted in Ohio, his articles provide local insight to some of the best hidden gems in Ohio.

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Downtown Toledo

Restaurants, live music, and theaters are just a few things travelers enjoy about Downtown Toledo. Check out Fifth Third Field or Huntington Center while you're exploring the area.

Historic Downtown Sandusky

While Historic Downtown Sandusky isn't home to many top sights, Jackson Street Pier and Shoreline Park are some notable places to visit nearby.

Reynolds Corners

If you're spending some time in Reynolds Corners, Toledo Botanical Garden and C.Y.O. Athletic Complex are top sights worth seeing.

Ottawa Hills

Travelers like the parks in Ottawa Hills, and Wildwood Preserve Metropark is a top attraction you might want to visit.

West central Toledo boasts historic neighborhoods and Ottawa Park, offering a bike trail, golf course, tennis courts, and outdoor ice rink. Nearby, the University of Toledo features a multi-million dollar Student Recreation Center.

Historic Old West End

You'll enjoy the restaurants and museums in Historic Old West End. You might want to make time for a stop at Toledo Museum of Art or Children's Theatre Workshop.

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Popular places to visit.

• Cedar Point

Have a fun-filled day at Cedar Point and see why people love this theme park in Sandusky. Wander the lakeside and beautiful beaches in this family-friendly area.

• Bowling Green State University

Take a campus tour or just explore the area of Bowling Green State University, during your travels in Bowling Green. You can seek out the bowling alleys in this romantic area.

See the exotic and native animals who live at Toledo Zoo during your trip to Toledo. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.

• Huntington Center

Catch an event at Huntington Center during your trip to Toledo. Attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

• Catawba Island State Park

Explore the great outdoors at Catawba Island State Park, a lovely green space in Port Clinton. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

• Grand Lake St Marys State Park

Explore the great outdoors at Grand Lake St Marys State Park, a lovely green space in St. Marys. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

• Cities near Northwest Ohio

Bowling Green

• Places of interest
• Kalahari Waterpark Resort
• African Safari Wildlife Park
• University of Toledo
• Sports Force Parks at Cedar Point Sports Center
• Castaway Bay Waterpark
• Great Wolf Lodge Sandusky
• Nickel Plate Beach
• Indian Lake State Park
• Summit Motorsports Park
• Marblehead Lighthouse
• Fifth Third Field
• Glass City Center
• Indian Lake
• Hollywood Casino
• Miller Ferry
• Tiffin University
• The Watering Hole Safari and Waterpark
• University of Findlay
• Sauder Village
• Jet Express
• Magee Marsh Wildlife Area
• Imagination Station
• Toledo Museum of Art
• Stranahan Theater
• Ghostly Manor Thrill Center
• University of Northwestern Ohio

2024 cicadas map: Here's where to see trillions of insects. Want quiet? Avoid these states

If you're kicking yourself for not booking a vacation to see the April 8 total solar eclipse — seeing as how Florida wasn't in the path of totality — you have another opportunity to see another rare event.

But you'll have to travel outside of Florida to see them. Yes, them. Trillions of them.

We're talking about cicadas. It won't be long before two different broods emerge from underground with love on their minds and plenty to sing about as they look for the special someone.

The rare, double-brood event hasn't happened in  over 200 years , well before the Civil War.

If bugs aren't your thing and you're willing to wait until 2045 for another solar eclipse that puts Florida firmly in the path of totality , that's OK, too.

If you're planning a vacation to celebrate the end of the 2023-2024 school year or just to get some peace and quiet, here's what you should know about areas to avoid.

When are the cicadas expected to emerge?

The two different broods will begin to emerge when the soil 8 inches underground reaches 64 degrees. Their emergence is often triggered by a warm rain. They will likely emerge beginning in mid-May and through late June.

The last time these two broods  emerged together was in 1803 , according to  CicadaMania. It won't happen again until 2245, according to  ScienceAlert.com .

Cicadas 2024 map: What states will see the insects?

There are two different broods — or groups — of cicadas that will emerge in a few weeks.

Brood XIX comes out every 13 years. Brood XIII emerges every 17 years.

Brood XIX  is set to emerge across the Southeast and Midwest.  Brood XIII  will emerge in five Midwestern states around the same time, according to  Cicada Mania .

Residents in Iowa and Illinois will be especially "lucky": the two broods will likely overlap in those states.

That makes 17 states across the Southeast and Midwest where the cicadas will be found. 

Want more specifics to plan a vacation around cicadas? These are the states to avoid (or visit)

Brood XIX  (19) is  estimated to emerge  in these states beginning mid-May and lasting through late June:

• northwest Arkansas.
• northwest Georgia.
• southeast Iowa.
• southern Illinois.
• southwest Indiana.
• western Kentucky.
• northern Louisiana.
• Maryland, in St. Mary's County.
• Mississippi.
• central North Carolina.
• eastern Oklahoma.
• western South Carolina.
• eastern Virginia.

Brood XIII  (13) will  emerge in these states  in mid-May and ending in late June:

• northern Illinois.
• Indiana, near Lake Michigan.
• eastern Iowa.
• southern Wisconsin.

Are there cicadas in Florida?

Yes, there are  19 types of cicadas in Florida,  according to the University of Florida.

Unlike the types expected to emerge in huge numbers elsewhere this year, Florida's cicadas do not come out in massive periodic cycles. Instead,  adult cicadas in Florida emerge every year.

Just like their northern cousins, Florida cicadas spend most of their lives underground. How long is unknown, except "that the minimum seems to be four years under natural conditions," UF researchers said.

How loud are cicadas?

The din from millions of male  cicadas can hit 100 decibels,  which sounds almost like standing three feet from a chainsaw.

Yes, it's the males that are the noisy ones as they try to attract a female.

Want to hear more? Here are  more than 50 cicada calls from Cicada Mania.

How do you pronounce cicada ?

The most popular ways are ci-KAY-duh or si-KAH-duh, according to Cicada Mania.

Cicada trivia to amaze your friends

• What is a group of cicadas called ? A plague.
• Bob Dylan wrote a song inspi red by Bro od X  called the " Day of the Locusts."  Trivia point 2: Cicadas are not locusts; locusts are grasshoppers.  
• Cicadas'  wings repel water and bacteria.
• Cicadas live on all continents except Antarctica .
• Cicadas have one of the longest insect lifespan s, living 13 or 17 years. Only a tiny fraction of their lives is above ground.
• Cicadas use  math to avoid predators . Those 13- and 17-year emergences are prime numbers. Speculation is that helps cicadas avoid synching up with predators, whose populations rise and fall on two- or 10-year cycles.
• There are almost  3,400 species of cicadas  and the majority of them emerge every two to five years.
• Cicadas emerge when the  temperature eight inches below the surface reaches 64 degree s. Not 63. Not 65.
• Cicadas don't eat while underground;  they drink. They suck xylem from plant roots.
• Those translucent skins they leave behind are called  exuviae .
• Cicadas have five eyes .
• Periodical cicadas that emerge in years before they're supposed to are called  stragglers .

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Librarians fear new penalties, even prison, as activists challenge books

Tom Bober, librarian and President of the Missouri Association of School Librarians, poses for a photo Wednesday, March 20, 2024, in Clayton, Mo. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

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When an illustrated edition of Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale” was released in 2019, educators in Clayton, Missouri needed little debate before deciding to keep copies in high school libraries. The book is widely regarded as a classic work of dystopian literature about the oppression of women, and a graphic novel would help it reach teens who struggle with words alone.

But after Missouri legislators passed a law in 2022 subjecting librarians to fines and possible imprisonment for allowing sexually explicit materials on bookshelves, the suburban St. Louis district reconsidered the new Atwood edition, and withdrew it.

“There’s a depiction of a rape scene, a handmaid being forced into a sexual act,” says Tom Bober, Clayton district’s library coordinator and president of the Missouri Association of School Librarians. “It’s literally one panel of the graphic novel, but we felt it was in violation of the law in Missouri.”

Across the country, book challenges and bans have soared to the highest levels in decades. Public and school-based libraries have been inundated with complaints from community members and conservative organizations such as as Moms for Liberty. Increasingly, lawmakers are considering new punishments — crippling lawsuits, hefty fines, and even imprisonment — for distributing books some regard as inappropriate.

The trend comes as officials seek to define terms such as “obscene” and “harmful.” Many of the conflicts involve materials featuring racial and/or LGBTQ+ themes, such as Toni Morrison’s novel, “The Bluest Eye,” and Maia Kobabe’s memoir, “Gender Queer.” And while no librarian or educator has been jailed, the threat alone has led to more self-censorship.

Already this year, lawmakers in more than 15 states have introduced bills to impose harsh penalties on libraries or librarians.

Utah enacted legislation in March that empowers the state’s Attorney General to enforce a new system of challenging and removing “sensitive” books from school settings. The law also creates a panel to monitor compliance and violations.

Awaiting Idaho Gov. Brad Little’s signature is a bill that empowers local prosecutors to bring charges against public and school libraries if they don’t move “harmful” materials away from children.

“The laws are designed to limit or remove legal protections that libraries have had for decades,” says Deborah Caldwell-Stone, director of the American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom.

Since the early 1960s, institutions including schools, libraries and museums — as well as educators, librarians and other staffers who distribute materials to children — have largely been exempt from expensive lawsuits or potential criminal charges.

These protections began showing up in states as America grappled with standards surrounding obscenity, which was defined by the Supreme Court in 1973.

Ruling 5-4 in Miller v. California, the justices said obscene materials are not automatically protected by the First Amendment, and offered three criteria that must be met for being labeled obscene: whether the work, taken as a whole, appeals to “prurient interest,” whether “the work depicts or describes, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct specifically defined by the applicable state law,” and whether the work lacks “serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.”

Eventually, almost every state adopted protections for educators, librarians and museum officials, among others who provide information to minors.

“Until recently, police and prosecutors were unable to pursue charges against public libraries over materials that make certain individuals uncomfortable. These exemptions have prevented spurious prosecutions of teachers over health and sexuality curriculum, art, theater, and difficult subjects in English classes,” stated a 2023 report from EveryLibrary, a national political action committee that opposes censorship.

Arkansas and Indiana targeted educators and librarians with criminalization laws last year. Tennessee criminalized publishers that provide “obscene” materials to public schools.

Some Republicans are seeking penalties and restrictions that would apply nationwide. Referring to “pornography” in the foreword to Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation’s blueprint for a possible second Donald Trump administration, the right-wing group’s president, Kevin Roberts, wrote that the “people who produce and distribute it should be imprisoned. Educators and public librarians who purvey it should be classed as registered sex offenders.”

Arkansas’ version was temporarily blocked by a federal judge after a coalition of librarians and publishers challenged the legality of subjecting librarians and booksellers to criminal charges if they provide “harmful” materials to minors.

Indiana lawmakers stripped away “educational purposes” as a defense for school librarians and educators charged with giving minors “obscene” or “harmful” material — felonies punishable by up to 2½ years in jail and $10,000 in fines. The law also requires public catalogs of what’s in each school library and systems for responding to complaints.

Indiana’s law took effect January 1. It’s likely a matter of when — not if — a lawsuit is filed, and the anxiety has created a chilling effect.

“It’s putting fear into some people. It’s very scary,” said Diane Rogers, a school librarian who serves as president of the Indiana Library Federation. “If you’re a licensed teacher just being charged with a felony potentially gets rid of your license even if you’re found innocent. That’s a very serious thing.”

Rogers said she’s confident Indiana’s school libraries don’t offer obscene materials, but she’s seen reports that some districts have moved certain titles to higher age groups or required parental approval to check them out.

A PEN America list shows 300 titles were removed from school libraries across 11 Missouri districts after lawmakers in 2022 banned “sexually explicit” material, punishable by up to a year in jail or a $2,000 fine. The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri and library groups challenged the law last year, but it remains in effect pending a motion for the state to intervene.

“Gender Queer” is another title no longer available to high schoolers in Clayton, where district officials recently turned their attention to Mike Curato’s graphic novel, “Flamer,” about a teenager who struggles with his sexual identity and how to fit in at Boy Scout camp. The American Library Association included “Flamer” on its list of 2023’s most challenged and/or banned books .

“We had a lot of conversations about how to interpret the law and not be in violation,” Bober said. “But we also didn’t want to overreach and overcensor our collections. With ‘Flamer,’ we did not feel we were in violation of the law.”

Live eclipse traffic: Heavy traffic building in central Ohio as travelers return south

Traffic along north and west Columbus remains heavy at 6 p.m. Monday as motorists make their way home from viewing the solar eclipse.

The heaviest traffic is U.S. 33 eastbound between Dublin and Marysville, and there are backups along southbound Interstate 71 north of Columbus and on I-70 west of the city, according to the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT).

Solar Eclipse 2024 live updates: Ohio traffic begins to slow; several state parks already at capacity

Here's what to know as travelers return following the eclipse:

Live traffic updates: traffic building, crash on U.S. 33 as travelers return south

The slowest travel at 6 p.m. is U.S. 33 between Marysville and Dublin as travelers make their way back to Columbus following the eclipse, according to ODOT.

A crash that blocked an eastbound lane of U.S. 33 in Marysville also was slowing traffic.

Travelers can expect up to a 30-minute delay between Marysville and Dublin along 33, according to ODOT.

Traffic is heavy elsewhere in the region, including the eastbound lanes of Interstate 70 west of Columbus and the southbound lanes of I-71 north of I-270. Both areas reported 10-minute delays.

Separately, a disabled vehicle caused backups in the eastbound lanes of I-270 on the South Side, causing delays of about 15 minutes.

There was also a crash that closed the shoulders on I-270 south of Roberts Road that slowed traffic.

ODOT to eclipse travelers: Brace for slow return home

While the pace of traffic to the eclipse has been slow to build, ODOT spokesperson Matt Bruning urged people to prepare for a long return time as everyone who headed to the path of totality tries to get home.

“Patience will be key for sure, if you can stay put the longer you can after the event the easier it will be,” Bruning said. “History is a teacher, and it teaches that is not what happens, everyone leaves and wants to get home at the same time.”

North central Ohio saw slowdowns on routes to eclipse

In addition to heavy traffic on U.S. 33, ODOT's traffic cameras also showed heavy traffic on Ohio 315 near the Franklin-Delaware County line and the Ohio 315 and U.S. 23 interchange. The two left lanes of I-270 west were also closed at State Route 315 south due to a crash.

Traffic along Interstate 71 in Delaware County was also heavy near Alum Creek State Park.

Roadways in Powell near the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium were also seeing increased traffic and slowdowns.

On the East Side of Columbus, a ramp from Interstate 670 to U.S. 62 was closed in both directions due to a crash, but is now reopened.

How to check live traffic, see road cameras in Ohio

The ODOT OHGO website has live traffic updates, as well as access to dozens of traffic cameras throughout the state to make informed traveling decisions before heading out.

ODOT: Do not watch eclipse from side of highway

Bruning also said to be mindful of ODOT and state law enforcement workers, and said it was not legal for drivers to stop on the highway to watch the eclipse.

@Colebehr_report

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