NORTHWEST OHIO
St. Marys Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Grand Lake St. Marys State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE | ST. MARYS OH
Grand Lake St. Marys State Park is a sprawling outdoor haven centered around Ohio's largest inland lake. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and camping along its 52 miles of shoreline. The park also features hiking trails, picnic areas, and a nature center, making it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
2. Miami and Erie Canal
HISTORIC WATERWAY TRAIL | ST. MARYS OH
The Miami and Erie Canal is a historic waterway that once connected the Ohio River to Lake Erie. Today, visitors can explore the canal's rich history along the towpath trail, which offers scenic walking and biking opportunities. Interpretive signs along the route provide insights into the canal's crucial role in Ohio's early development and transportation.
3. Memorial Park
SCENIC CITY PARK | ST. MARYS OH
Memorial Park is a picturesque urban oasis in the heart of St. Marys. The park features beautiful landscaping, walking paths, and a serene pond, making it perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls. Visitors can enjoy the park's amenities, including picnic areas, a playground, and various memorials honoring local veterans and community figures.
4. K.C. Geiger Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY RECREATION AREA | ST. MARYS OH
K.C. Geiger Park is a versatile recreational facility offering a wide range of activities for all ages. The park boasts multiple sports fields, tennis courts, a skate park, and a splash pad for summer fun. With its extensive playground, picnic shelters, and walking trails, K.C. Geiger Park is a popular destination for family outings and community events.
5. St. Marys Miniature Golf Course
FUN FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT | ST. MARYS OH
St. Marys Miniature Golf Course offers a delightful 18-hole putting experience for visitors of all ages. This well-maintained course features creative obstacles and landscaping, providing a fun challenge for families and friends. Located near other local attractions, it's a perfect addition to a day of exploring St. Marys' recreational offerings.
6. Belle of St. Marys Canal Boat
HISTORIC CANAL REPLICA | ST. MARYS OH
The Belle of St. Marys is a faithful replica of a 19th-century canal boat, offering visitors a glimpse into the area's rich canal history. Located in Memorial Park, this static display allows guests to explore the boat's deck and interior, providing educational insights into life along the Miami and Erie Canal during its heyday.
7. Memorial Covered Bridge
HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK | ST. MARYS OH
The Memorial Covered Bridge is a charming replica of a 19th-century covered bridge spanning the St. Marys River in Memorial Park. This picturesque structure offers visitors a nostalgic glimpse into historical architecture while providing a scenic spot for photos and peaceful river views. The bridge serves as both a functional pedestrian crossing and a beloved local landmark.
8. St. Marys Community Public Library
KNOWLEDGE & COMMUNITY HUB | ST. MARYS OH
St. Marys Community Public Library is a vibrant center for learning and community engagement. The library offers a vast collection of books, digital resources, and public computers. With its diverse programming, including story times for children, book clubs for adults, and educational workshops, the library serves as a cultural cornerstone for St. Marys residents and visitors alike.
9. Varsity Lanes Bowling
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER | ST. MARYS OH
Varsity Lanes Bowling offers a fun-filled experience for bowlers of all skill levels. This modern bowling alley features well-maintained lanes, automatic scoring, and a variety of league options. With its family-friendly atmosphere, arcade games, and snack bar, Varsity Lanes is a popular destination for casual outings, birthday parties, and community gatherings in St. Marys.
10. Auglaize Antique Mall
TREASURE TROVE OF COLLECTIBLES | ST. MARYS OH
Auglaize Antique Mall is a paradise for antique enthusiasts and collectors. This expansive mall houses a diverse array of vendors offering vintage furniture, collectibles, memorabilia, and unique gifts. With its ever-changing inventory and knowledgeable dealers, the Auglaize Antique Mall provides an exciting treasure-hunting experience for visitors seeking one-of-a-kind items and nostalgic pieces.
St. Marys Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN ST. MARYS
Saint Marys, Ohio, is a charming city known for its rich history and beautiful natural surroundings. The city's most prominent feature is Grand Lake St. Marys, Ohio's largest inland lake, which offers a wide range of recreational activities and serves as a focal point for many of the area's attractions. This man-made lake, originally constructed as a reservoir for the Miami and Erie Canal, has played a significant role in shaping the city's identity and continues to be a major draw for visitors and residents alike.
One of the most popular attractions in Saint Marys is the Grand Lake St. Marys State Park. This expansive park offers over 50 miles of shoreline for boating, fishing, and swimming. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking trails, picnic areas, and a nature center. The park is also home to diverse wildlife, making it an excellent spot for bird watching and nature photography. Fishing enthusiasts flock to the lake for its abundance of species, including largemouth bass, crappies, bluegills, walleye, and yellow perch.
For history buffs, Saint Marys offers several points of interest that showcase its canal-era heritage. The Miami and Erie Canal Towpath Trail provides a scenic route for hiking and biking while offering glimpses into the area's past. In the heart of the city, visitors can explore Memorial Park, which features the Belle of St. Marys, a replica canal boat that serves as a tangible link to the city's canal history. The park also includes a replica 1850s-era covered bridge spanning the St. Marys River, adding to its historical charm.
Beyond its natural and historical attractions, Saint Marys boasts a vibrant community with various events and amenities. The city hosts several festivals throughout the year, celebrating its heritage and local culture. Visitors can enjoy shopping in the quaint uptown area, which features antique shops and specialty stores. For those interested in aerospace history, the nearby Armstrong Air and Space Museum in Wapakoneta offers an engaging experience related to Ohio's contributions to space exploration. With its blend of outdoor recreation, historical significance, and community spirit, Saint Marys provides a diverse array of attractions and activities for visitors of all interests.