Elida Ohio

ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO

Elida is a village located in Allen County, Ohio. Listed below are the best attractions and things to do in Elida.

1. Elida Flea Market

TREASURE HUNTING DESTINATION | ELIDA OH

Elida Flea Market is a popular attraction known for its diverse array of vendors and unique finds. This bustling market features a wide selection of items, from antiques and collectibles to handcrafted goods and fresh produce. Open on select weekends throughout the year, it creates a lively atmosphere where visitors can browse, haggle, and uncover one-of-a-kind treasures. The market offers a fun shopping experience with a local flavor, making it a must-visit destination for bargain hunters and antique enthusiasts alike.

2. Hermon Woodlands Metro Park

SCENIC NATURE TRAILS | LIMA 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. Outdoor enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy the park's tranquil atmosphere and immersive natural surroundings.

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. Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District

OUTDOOR RECREATION COMPLEX | LIMA OH

Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District is a vast network of parks and nature preserves spanning over 1,500 acres across Allen County. The district offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking. Its diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to forests, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature photography. The park district also features educational programs, nature centers, and special events throughout the year, catering to visitors of all ages and interests.

5. Schoonover Observatory

ASTRONOMICAL EXPLORATION | LIMA OH

Schoonover Observatory is a celestial gateway offering visitors a chance to explore the wonders of the night sky. Equipped with powerful telescopes, including a 14-inch Schmidt-Cassegrain, the observatory provides stunning views of planets, stars, and deep-sky objects. Regular public viewing nights and educational programs are hosted by knowledgeable astronomers, making complex astronomical concepts accessible to all ages. The observatory's location away from city lights ensures optimal viewing conditions for stargazers and astronomy enthusiasts.

6. Temple of Tolerance

UNIQUE ROCK GARDEN | WAPAKONETA OH

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.

7. 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.

8. 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.

9. 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, celebrating the rich heritage of railroading in Northwest Ohio.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. Vino Bellissimo

WINE TASTING EXPERIENCE | LIMA OH

Vino Bellissimo is a charming wine bar and retail shop offering a sophisticated tasting experience in Lima. The establishment boasts an extensive selection of wines from around the world, catering to both novice and experienced wine enthusiasts. Knowledgeable staff provide guidance and recommendations, enhancing visitors' appreciation of different varietals and regions. Regular wine tasting events, food pairings, and educational seminars create a vibrant atmosphere for socializing and expanding one's palate, making Vino Bellissimo a popular destination for wine lovers and those seeking a refined night out.