9 Things to Do for an Unexpected Getaway in Toledo, Ohio
Looking for an unexpected getaway in Ohio? Toledo, the Glass City, is full of surprises. You’ll find riverside dining and craft breweries, plus antique treasure hunts and colorful flower fields. Toledo makes it easy to plan a weekend that’s equal parts fun and relaxing. Here are 9 experiences in Toledo you will love.
Brunch with a View at Brim House
Kick off your getaway at Brim House for brunch, located at the Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel, where floor-to-ceiling windows put the Maumee River right in your sightline. Indulge in fluffy stacks of pancakes or an omelet, sip a perfectly chilled mimosa, and let the riverside views set the tone for a laid-back morning before heading out to explore Toledo.
Share a Beer at Maumee Bay Brewing Company
Set inside the historic Oliver House, originally opened as a hotel by William Oliver in 1859, Maumee Bay Brewing Company is the perfect place for a fantastic lunch or dinner. Sip on house-brewed beers that range from crisp golden ales to rich porters, and enjoy the historic vibe.
Pro-tip: Order the oven-fired massive pretzel to share with your table or significant other; it’s a memorable and delicious treat.
Browse the Toledo Farmers’ Market
Food-loving travelers will adore the Toledo Farmers’ Market, open year-round. Browse stalls overflowing with fresh bread, seasonal produce, and local makers selling handcrafted gems. Grab a bite and taste Toledo’s local flavor!
Pro-tip: In addition to The Farmers’ Market, Toledo Night Market also hosts lively evening events throughout the year at the same location as well as other venues throughout Toledo. Make sure to check their calendar of events during your dates. You might just find yourself in for a treat.
Have a Bite and Grab a Paddle at Toledo Pickle Co.
Looking for a chef-driven place to eat? Toledo Pickle Co. will tempt your palate and give you an experience you wouldn’t expect. With the Maumee River just outside, you can order specialty drinks and enjoy the views with a tasty bite. Afterward, you can head inside to burn off your energy.
Book a court for a fun game of pickleball. If you don’t own the gear, no worries, as you can rent some on-site. Not into pickleball? That’s not a problem; there are ping pong tables, cornhole, skeeball, and climbing walls. It is a playground of fun for everyone in your group, whether you’re athletic or not.
Pro-tip: Stay at the Delta by Marriott to keep the fun going; they have a huge indoor pool where you can relax after your day of fun.
Dive into History at the National Museum of the Great Lakes
Explore fascinating maritime stories at the National Museum of the Great Lakes. From shipwrecks to historic vessels, the exhibits will spark curiosity and make you appreciate Toledo’s deep connection to the waters of Lake Erie. It’s more than just a walkable museum of indoor exhibits; there are two boats you can explore.
Pro-tip: Wear sturdy shoes when you are on the ships, as they can be challenging to navigate in sandals or flip flops.
Stroll (or Skate!) Through Glass City Metropark
Right next to the National Museum of the Great Lakes is Glass City Metropark, home to The Ribbon, a winding pathway that doubles as a rollerblading trail in summer and an ice-skating loop in winter. At the Glass City Metropark, they have skate, scooter, and roller skate rentals, making this an easy and accessible afternoon activity. While you’re there, if you get thirsty or hungry, they have a cafe with quick eats.
Pro-tip: For added convenience and fun, rent a cozy shelter with a private firepit overlooking the Maumee River.
Treasure Hunt at Maumee Antique Mall
Slow things down with a stroll through time at the Maumee Antique Mall, where hundreds of booths are filled with vintage finds and collectibles. It’s like you have found antique heaven where every corner feels like a time capsule or old finds, making it an excellent spot for treasure hunters and junkers.
Pro-tip: Set aside at least an hour to explore all the nooks and crannies.
Paddle Together with Pop Up Paddle Adventures
Take your exploration to the water with Pop Up Paddle Adventures. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and glide along the Maumee River or one of the local parks. How this works is unique: book your paddle trip, and they’ll bring the kayaks or paddleboards right to you! It is innovative, allowing you to create and enjoy your own adventure, rather than being limited to a specific destination.
Pro-tip: Check Pop Up Paddle Adventures for special events they procure; it could be something you’ve never thought to try, like sound bowls while you float.
Take Yourself Out to a Ball Game
Toledo is home to the Mud Hens, a minor league baseball team, which calls Fifth Third Field home. It’s America’s favorite game, and fans in Toledo say this team is their favorite. There is no bad seat in the stadium, and the food is a big part of the Mud Hens baseball experience.
Pro-tip: Make this a whole experience of fun by booking a stay within walking distance at the Hilton Garden Inn, and make sure to book a room overlooking the Fifth Third Field.
Wander Through GardenView Flowers
Find fantastic blooms at the family-owned GardenView Flowers, where colorful rows of flowers stretch to the horizon. Pedal seekers can wander the fields, snap photos, and even handpick a bouquet to take home. They provide everything you need to create your own bunch of flowers, and you can take as long as you want to meander through the browns until you have perfected your perfect bouquet.
Pro-tip: Check out the new gift shop InSeason on the property for some fun finds. If you’re not into cutting your flowers, you can also pick up a precut bouquet from the cooler to take home.
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