ALLEN COUNTY
Elida Ohio
ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Hermon Woodlands
SCENIC NATURE TRAILS | ELIDA OH
Hermon Woodlands Metro Park offers a serene escape into nature with its well-maintained trails and diverse ecosystems. Spanning 40 acres, this park features a mix of woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, providing visitors with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife observation. The park's centerpiece is a 1.3-mile loop trail that winds through scenic landscapes, offering a perfect blend of exercise and natural beauty for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
2. Elida Flea Market
TREASURE HUNTING & BARGAINS | ELIDA OH
Elida Flea Market is a treasure trove for bargain hunters and antique enthusiasts alike. This bustling market features a wide array of vendors selling everything from vintage collectibles and handcrafted items to fresh produce and unique gifts. Open on select weekends throughout the year, the market creates a lively atmosphere where visitors can browse, haggle, and uncover one-of-a-kind finds. It's a perfect spot for those seeking a fun shopping experience with a local flavor.
3. Allen County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY SHOWCASE | LIMA OH
Allen County Museum offers a fascinating journey through the region's rich history. Housed in a beautiful historic building, the museum features extensive exhibits on local Native American cultures, pioneer life, and industrial development. Visitors can explore meticulously recreated period rooms, examine artifacts from the county's past, and learn about significant events that shaped the area. With its engaging displays and educational programs, the museum provides a comprehensive look at Allen County's heritage, making history come alive for all ages.
4. The Temple Of Tolerance
UNIQUE ROCK GARDEN | WAPAKONETA OH
The Temple of Tolerance is a whimsical and thought-provoking attraction created by artist Jim Bowsher. This eclectic outdoor museum features an impressive collection of rocks, sculptures, and found objects arranged in intricate patterns and structures. Visitors can wander through the labyrinthine garden, discovering hidden nooks, meaningful inscriptions, and artistic installations that promote peace and understanding. The Temple offers a serene and contemplative space, inviting guests to reflect on themes of tolerance, history, and human connection in a truly unique setting.
5. Bicycle Museum Of America
CYCLING HISTORY COLLECTION | NEW BREMEN OH
The Bicycle Museum of America boasts an impressive collection of over 300 bicycles, tracing the evolution of cycling from the 1800s to the present day. Visitors can marvel at rare and vintage bikes, including high-wheelers, tandems, and racing models. The museum offers a comprehensive look at bicycle history, technology, and cultural impact through its exhibits and informative displays. With its vast array of two-wheeled treasures, the museum provides an engaging experience for cycling enthusiasts and history buffs alike, showcasing the bicycle's enduring influence on transportation and society.
6. Children's Museum Of Findlay
INTERACTIVE LEARNING CENTER | FINDLAY OH
The Children's Museum of Findlay is a vibrant, hands-on learning center designed to spark curiosity and imagination in young minds. With its array of interactive exhibits, the museum encourages children to explore science, art, and culture through play. From a miniature town where kids can role-play various professions to hands-on science experiments and creative art stations, the museum offers a diverse range of engaging activities. It's an ideal destination for families seeking an educational and entertaining outing that caters to children's natural desire to learn through exploration and discovery.
7. Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation
VINTAGE TRAIN EXPERIENCE | FINDLAY OH
Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation offers a nostalgic journey into the golden age of rail travel. This unique attraction features a quarter-scale railroad that visitors can ride, providing a charming experience for train enthusiasts of all ages. The site also includes a museum with exhibits on local railroad history, vintage locomotives, and railroad memorabilia. Special events throughout the year, such as holiday-themed train rides, add to the appeal. It's a delightful destination that combines education, history, and family-friendly fun, celebrating the rich heritage of railroading in Northwest Ohio.
8. Hancock Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE | FINDLAY OH
The Hancock Historical Museum offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the rich history of Hancock County. Housed in a beautifully preserved 1881 Victorian mansion, the museum features an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that chronicle the area's development from prehistoric times to the present. Visitors can explore period rooms, learn about local industries and notable figures, and discover the county's role in significant historical events. With its engaging displays and educational programs, the museum provides a comprehensive and immersive experience that brings the past to life for history enthusiasts of all ages.
9. Delphos Canal Museum
CANAL ERA HISTORY | DELPHOS OH
The Delphos Canal Museum offers a fascinating journey through Ohio's canal era, showcasing the significant role of waterways in the state's development. Housed in a restored 1845 tavern, the museum features exhibits on canal construction, life along the waterways, and the economic impact of this transportation revolution. Visitors can explore authentic artifacts, interactive displays, and a recreated canal boat, gaining insight into 19th-century engineering and daily life. The museum's location along a preserved section of the Miami and Erie Canal adds to the immersive experience, making it a must-visit for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
10. Airstream Factory Tour
ICONIC RV MANUFACTURING | JACKSON CENTER OH
The Airstream Factory Tour offers an intriguing behind-the-scenes look at the creation of these iconic American travel trailers. Visitors can witness the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into each Airstream, from the initial aluminum shell construction to the final interior detailing. The guided tour provides insights into the company's history, innovative design principles, and commitment to quality. With a chance to see skilled artisans at work and learn about the latest in RV technology, this tour is a must-do for camping enthusiasts, design lovers, and anyone interested in American manufacturing heritage.