NORTHWEST OHIO
Sylvania Ohio
10 ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
1. Heritage Sylvania
STEP BACK IN TIME | SYLVANIA OH
Heritage Sylvania offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's past with meticulously preserved 19th-century buildings. This living history museum features the iconic Lathrop House, a bustling General Store, and other structures that tell the story of Sylvania's evolution over the years. Visitors can explore the village and learn about local history through interactive exhibits and guided tours.
2. Olander Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE | SYLVANIA OH
Olander Park is a 60-acre gem featuring a spring-fed, 28-acre lake with a natural sand beach. This popular destination offers boating, swimming, fishing, and picnicking opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a stroll along the 1.1-mile paved, ADA-accessible loop around the lake, perfect for walking, rollerblading, and biking. The park also includes three playgrounds for children to enjoy.
3. Fossil Park
PREHISTORIC DISCOVERIES AWAIT | SYLVANIA OH
Fossil Park is a unique attraction where visitors can search for evidence of more than 200 prehistoric species. This ADA-accessible park allows budding archaeologists to unearth 375-million-year-old relics from the Devonian Era present in the quarry. Visitors can break apart loose shale and take home the fossils they discover, making it an educational and exciting experience for all ages.
4. The Lathrop House
UNDERGROUND RAILROAD HISTORY | SYLVANIA OH
The Lathrop House, built in 1853, is a significant historical site in Sylvania. It served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, where slaves seeking freedom were given food and shelter in a secret room behind an oven door. The house is recognized by the National Trust for Historic Preservation and offers visitors a glimpse into this important period of American history.
5. Centennial Terrace
OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT VENUE | SYLVANIA OH
Centennial Terrace is Northwest Ohio's premier outdoor entertainment venue, hosting a wide variety of events and performances. The venue features a massive 10,000 sq. ft. terrazzo dance floor, one of the largest outdoor dance floors in the U.S. Visitors can enjoy concerts, dance events, and other entertainment throughout the year in this unique open-air setting.
6. Tam-O-Shanter
YEAR-ROUND ICE SKATING | SYLVANIA OH
Tam-O-Shanter is a popular recreational facility offering year-round ice skating for visitors of all ages. The venue features ice rinks where guests can rent skates and enjoy gliding across the ice. In addition to ice skating, Tam-O-Shanter also provides sports fields and hosts various community events throughout the year, making it a versatile attraction for locals and tourists alike.
7. Sylvania Playland
FAMILY FUN CENTER | SYLVANIA OH
Sylvania Playland is an indoor fun zone perfect for families with children. This entertainment center features bounce houses, arcade games, and mini-golf, providing hours of excitement for kids of all ages. With its diverse range of activities, Sylvania Playland offers a great option for birthday parties, family outings, or a fun-filled day when the weather isn't cooperating.
8. Harroun Community Park
SCENIC NATURE TRAILS | SYLVANIA OH
Harroun Community Park offers a serene escape with its beautiful river views and walking trails. The park is home to more than 20 types of stately trees, including dogwood, black willow, sycamore, red maple, and Ohio buckeye. Visitors can enjoy picnics, nature walks, and birdwatching while taking in the seasonal wildflowers and diverse wildlife that call this park home.
9. Chandler Cafe
LOCAL CULINARY DELIGHT | SYLVANIA OH
Chandler Cafe is a popular local eatery offering a diverse menu of breakfast and lunch options. Visitors can enjoy quiche, pastries, and egg sandwiches for breakfast, or try the hot Riverwalk Reuben and fresh salads for lunch. The cafe's menu items are cleverly named after local attractions, adding a unique touch to the dining experience in downtown Sylvania.
10. Highland Meadows Golf Club
PRESTIGIOUS GOLF COURSE | SYLVANIA OH
Highland Meadows Golf Club is a renowned golf course that hosts the annual Marathon Classic LPGA tournament. This prestigious club offers golf enthusiasts a challenging and beautifully maintained course to enjoy. Visitors can test their skills on the same greens where professional golfers compete, making it a must-visit destination for golf lovers in the Sylvania area.
Sylvania Attractions
THINGS TO DO IN SYLVANIA
Sylvania, Ohio, is a charming city known for its rich history, beautiful parks, and diverse attractions. Located in Lucas County, just northwest of Toledo, Sylvania offers visitors a perfect blend of small-town charm and modern amenities. The city's name, derived from the Latin word for "woods" or "trees," reflects its abundant natural beauty and commitment to preserving green spaces.
One of Sylvania's most notable features is its dedication to history and education. The Sylvania Historical Village, a living history museum, showcases the city's past through preserved 19th-century buildings and interactive exhibits. The Lathrop House, a significant stop on the Underground Railroad, offers visitors a glimpse into the area's role in this important chapter of American history.
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Sylvania's numerous parks and outdoor spaces. Olander Park, with its spring-fed lake and recreational facilities, is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The unique Fossil Park allows visitors to search for and keep 375-million-year-old fossils, providing an exciting and educational experience for all ages.
Sylvania also boasts a vibrant arts and entertainment scene. Centennial Terrace, an outdoor venue with one of the largest dance floors in the U.S., hosts concerts and events throughout the year. The city's downtown area features quaint shops, restaurants, and galleries, offering visitors a taste of local culture and cuisine. With its blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and modern attractions, Sylvania provides a diverse range of experiences for visitors and residents alike.