SOUTHWEST OHIO
Urbana Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Champaign Aviation Museum
VINTAGE AIRCRAFT SHOWCASE | URBANA OHIO
Champaign Aviation Museum showcases meticulously restored World War II aircraft. Visitors can explore vintage planes up close, including a B-17 Flying Fortress under restoration. The museum offers guided tours, educational programs, and hands-on experiences for aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
2. Cedar Bog State Nature Preserve
UNIQUE WETLAND ECOSYSTEM | URBANA OH
Cedar Bog State Nature Preserve is a rare wetland ecosystem home to diverse plant and animal species. Visitors can explore the boardwalk trail, observing unique flora like orchids and carnivorous plants. The preserve offers guided nature walks and educational programs about its delicate ecosystem.
3. Johnny Appleseed Museum
FOLK HERO HISTORY | URBANA OH
Johnny Appleseed Museum celebrates the life of John Chapman, the legendary American pioneer. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, books, and memorabilia related to Johnny Appleseed's life and legacy. Visitors can learn about early American history and Chapman's contributions to apple cultivation.
4. Gloria Theatre
HISTORIC MOVIE VENUE | URBANA OH
Gloria Theatre is a beautifully restored 1940s movie palace in downtown Urbana. The theater screens first-run movies and hosts live performances, maintaining its vintage charm with original art deco features. Visitors can enjoy modern entertainment in a nostalgic setting.
5. Freshwater Farms of Ohio
AQUACULTURE & FISH MARKET | URBANA OH
Freshwater Farms of Ohio is the state's largest indoor fish hatchery. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about aquaculture, and even pet sturgeon in the touch tank. The on-site market offers fresh fish and locally sourced products, making it a unique attraction for food enthusiasts.
6. Cafe Paradiso
COZY COFFEE SHOP | URBANA OH
Cafe Paradiso is a charming coffee shop and eatery in downtown Urbana. Known for its warm atmosphere and quality beverages, the cafe serves a variety of coffee drinks, teas, and light fare. It's a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax or catch up with friends.
7. Grimes Field Airport
AVIATION HISTORY & EVENTS | URBANA OH
Grimes Field Airport is a historic airfield with a rich aviation heritage. Home to the Champaign Aviation Museum, it hosts various events including fly-ins and air shows. Aviation enthusiasts can watch planes take off and land or learn about the airport's role in World War II.
8. Melvin Miller Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA | URBANA OH
Melvin Miller Park is Urbana's largest public park, offering a variety of recreational facilities. Visitors can enjoy sports fields, playgrounds, walking trails, and a swimming pool. The park hosts community events and provides ample green space for picnics and outdoor activities.
9. Monument Square District
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN AREA | URBANA OH
Monument Square District is the heart of downtown Urbana, featuring historic architecture and local businesses. Visitors can explore unique shops, dine at local restaurants, and admire the Civil War monument. The district hosts various events throughout the year, showcasing Urbana's community spirit.
10. Champaign County Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HISTORY EXHIBITS | URBANA OH
Champaign County Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the area's rich history. Housed in a historic building, the museum features exhibits on local Native American culture, pioneer life, and Urbana's development. Visitors can explore artifacts, photographs, and documents that bring the county's past to life.
Urbana Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN URBANA
Urbana, Ohio, is a charming city known for its rich aviation history and natural beauty. The Champaign Aviation Museum stands as a testament to the area's aeronautical heritage, showcasing meticulously restored World War II aircraft and offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Nature enthusiasts flock to the Cedar Bog State Nature Preserve, a unique wetland ecosystem that's home to rare plant and animal species.
The city's cultural attractions are equally impressive, with the Johnny Appleseed Museum celebrating the life of the legendary American pioneer. Downtown Urbana boasts the beautifully restored Gloria Theatre, a 1940s movie palace that continues to entertain locals and visitors alike with first-run movies and live performances.
Urbana's commitment to preserving its history is evident in the Monument Square District, where historic architecture and local businesses create a vibrant community hub. The Champaign County Historical Society Museum further enriches the city's cultural landscape, offering exhibits that bring the area's past to life.
Whether you're interested in aviation, nature, history, or simply enjoying small-town charm, Urbana offers a diverse range of attractions and activities. From exploring the Freshwater Farms of Ohio to relaxing in Melvin Miller Park, there's something for everyone in this welcoming Ohio city.