Jerry City OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Jerry City, Ohio.
1. Wood County Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Wood County Museum is a historical museum housed in a former county infirmary dating back to 1869. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing local history, including artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that tell the story of Wood County's development. The museum is surrounded by beautiful grounds featuring a herb garden, arboretum, and walking trails.
2. Snook's Dream Cars
VINTAGE AUTOMOBILE COLLECTION
Snook's Dream Cars is a museum displaying an impressive collection of classic automobiles from the 1930s to 1960s. The collection includes meticulously restored vintage cars, memorabilia, and a recreated 1940s Texaco gas station that transports visitors back in time. Each vehicle tells a unique story about American automotive history and the evolution of car design through the decades.
3. Van Buren State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Van Buren State Park offers 296 acres of natural beauty with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The park features a 45-acre lake stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish, making it a popular destination for anglers. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful woodland setting while exploring the park's trails and recreational facilities throughout the year.
4. Wintergarden Nature Preserve
TRANQUIL NATURAL ESCAPE
Wintergarden Nature Preserve encompasses over 100 acres of natural habitats including forests, meadows, and wetlands. The preserve features well-maintained trails that wind through diverse ecosystems, allowing visitors to observe native plants and wildlife in their natural environment. Educational programs and seasonal events are offered to help visitors better understand and appreciate the local ecology.
5. Eden Fashion Boutique
STYLISH LOCAL FASHION
Eden Fashion Boutique offers a curated selection of contemporary women's clothing, accessories, and gifts. The boutique features unique pieces from independent designers alongside popular brands, providing shoppers with distinctive style options. Personalized styling assistance and a welcoming atmosphere make this a favorite shopping destination for locals and visitors alike.
6. Bowling Green State University
ACADEMIC AND CULTURAL HUB
Bowling Green State University is a public research university known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. The university offers visitors access to cultural attractions including the Fine Arts Center, which houses art galleries, performance venues, and the Gish Film Theater. Sports enthusiasts can catch Falcon athletic events at the Stroh Center or Doyt Perry Stadium throughout the academic year.
7. Al-Mar Lanes
FAMILY BOWLING ENTERTAINMENT
Al-Mar Lanes is a popular bowling center offering 16 lanes equipped with modern scoring technology. The facility includes a full-service snack bar, lounge area, and arcade games, making it ideal for family outings or casual get-togethers. League play, cosmic bowling, and special events are regularly scheduled, creating a fun atmosphere for bowlers of all skill levels.
8. Slippery Elm Trail
SCENIC RECREATIONAL PATH
The Slippery Elm Trail is a 13-mile paved multi-use path built on a former railroad corridor connecting Bowling Green to North Baltimore. The trail provides a safe route for walking, running, bicycling, and inline skating through woodlands, farms, and small communities. Scenic rest areas, wildlife viewing opportunities, and access to local parks make this trail a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts in all seasons.
9. Grounds for Thought
COFFEE AND BOOK HAVEN
Grounds for Thought is a beloved independent coffee shop and bookstore offering a warm, inviting atmosphere for readers and coffee enthusiasts. The shop houses an extensive collection of new and used books across various genres, alongside a selection of vinyl records and local art. Their house-roasted coffee, homemade pastries, and comfortable seating areas make it an ideal spot for studying, socializing, or simply relaxing with a good book.
10. Black Swamp Arts Festival
CELEBRATED CULTURAL EVENT
The Black Swamp Arts Festival is an annual event held each September in downtown Bowling Green, showcasing visual arts, music, and community engagement. The festival features over 150 juried artists, multiple performance stages with free concerts, and hands-on activities for all ages. This community celebration attracts thousands of visitors and has been recognized as one of Ohio's premier arts events since its founding in 1993.
11. Simpson Garden Park
BOTANICAL BEAUTY
Simpson Garden Park offers 11 acres of beautifully designed garden spaces showcasing diverse plant collections and landscape designs. The park includes specialized areas such as the Children's Discovery Garden, Sensory Garden, and native prairie plantings that change with the seasons. Paved walking paths, benches, and educational signage allow visitors to enjoy the natural beauty while learning about horticulture and sustainable gardening practices.
12. Call of the Canyon Cafe
SOUTHWESTERN-INSPIRED DINING
Call of the Canyon Cafe serves southwestern-inspired cuisine in a charming, casual setting in downtown Bowling Green. The menu features fresh sandwiches, homemade soups, salads, and specialty desserts made with locally sourced ingredients when possible. Known for their friendly service and consistent quality, this locally-owned eatery has been a community favorite for both lunch and dinner.
13. Wood County District Public Library
KNOWLEDGE AND COMMUNITY CENTER
The Wood County District Public Library serves as an important cultural and educational resource housed in a beautiful building in downtown Bowling Green. Beyond its extensive collection of books, media, and digital resources, the library hosts regular community events, book clubs, and children's programming throughout the year. The library's Carter House, a historical home on the property, adds architectural interest and houses special collections and meeting spaces.
14. Portage Quarry Recreation Club
SWIMMING AND SCUBA DESTINATION
Portage Quarry Recreation Club is a spring-fed limestone quarry offering swimming, scuba diving, and outdoor recreation during the summer months. The crystal-clear waters reach depths of up to 60 feet, making it popular for scuba certification and training, with underwater attractions including a bus, boats, and other structures. Visitors can enjoy the sandy beach, volleyball courts, picnic areas, and regular events like the annual Quarry Blow-Out music festival.
15. Downtown Bowling Green
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Downtown Bowling Green features a charming collection of locally-owned shops, restaurants, and businesses housed in historic buildings. The well-preserved downtown area hosts regular events including farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and seasonal celebrations that bring the community together. Visitors can enjoy exploring unique boutiques, antique shops, and specialty stores while experiencing the welcoming small-town atmosphere.