Dupont OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dupont, Ohio.
1. Auglaize Canoe & Kayak
SCENIC WATER ADVENTURES
Auglaize Canoe & Kayak offers exciting water adventures along the scenic Auglaize River in Putnam County. Visitors can rent equipment and enjoy guided or self-guided tours through the peaceful waterways surrounding Dupont. The facility provides a perfect opportunity for both beginners and experienced paddlers to connect with nature while exploring the area's natural beauty.
2. Church of the Immaculate Conception
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE
The Church of the Immaculate Conception stands as a significant historical and architectural landmark in Dupont. This beautiful church showcases impressive religious architecture and serves as a spiritual center for the local community. Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and artistic details that make this church a notable attraction in the village.
3. Dupont Marsh State Nature Preserve
NATURAL WETLAND ECOSYSTEM
Dupont Marsh State Nature Preserve features a unique marsh ecosystem situated along the edge of the Huron River. The preserve, donated by the DuPont Chemical Company, hosts diverse vegetation including pondweeds, water-milfoil, cattail, and the endangered leafy blue flag plant. Visitors can explore 0.6 miles of hiking trails while experiencing one of the few remaining river marshes in Ohio that plays a crucial role in Lake Erie's ecosystem.
4. Old Fort Defiance Park
HISTORIC MILITARY SITE
Old Fort Defiance Park preserves the site of a historic military fort that played a significant role in the region's early development. The park offers visitors a glimpse into Ohio's frontier history with interpretive displays and scenic grounds. This historical landmark combines educational value with recreational opportunities for families and history enthusiasts alike.
5. Delphos Canal Commission Museum
CANAL ERA HERITAGE
The Delphos Canal Commission Museum chronicles the rich history of the Miami and Erie Canal system that transformed transportation in 19th century Ohio. Exhibits feature authentic artifacts, photographs, and interactive displays that illustrate the canal's impact on regional development and daily life. The museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through an important chapter in Ohio's transportation history.
6. Grand Lake St. Marys
EXPANSIVE RECREATIONAL LAKE
Grand Lake St. Marys is Ohio's largest inland lake, offering extensive recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, and swimming. The lake's 13,500 acres of water and surrounding parkland provide habitat for diverse wildlife and multiple access points for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing along the shoreline of this impressive natural feature.
7. Sauder Village
LIVING HISTORY COMPLEX
Sauder Village is Ohio's largest living history destination where visitors can experience life in the 1800s through authentic buildings, costumed interpreters, and hands-on activities. The village features over 40 historic structures including a working farm, craft shops, and historic homes that showcase the region's rich heritage. Guests can watch demonstrations of traditional crafts, sample heritage foods, and participate in seasonal festivals that bring history to life.
8. Kewpee Hamburgers
ICONIC LOCAL EATERY
Kewpee Hamburgers is one of America's oldest hamburger chains, serving its famous square burgers in Lima since 1928. The restaurant is known for its fresh ground beef, homemade pies, and signature frosted malts that attract both locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of culinary history. Kewpee's unique art deco architecture and nostalgic atmosphere make it not just a meal but a genuine Northwest Ohio dining experience.
9. Bicycle Museum of America
CYCLING HISTORY COLLECTION
The Bicycle Museum of America houses one of the world's largest private collections of bicycles, featuring over 300 examples from different eras of cycling history. Visitors can view everything from early wooden velocipedes to modern racing bikes, along with related cycling memorabilia and accessories. The museum chronicles the evolution of bicycle design and technology while highlighting the significant impact of cycling on American culture and transportation.
10. Copper Whale Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Copper Whale Winery offers visitors a taste of locally produced wines in a welcoming Northwestern Ohio setting. The winery features a selection of handcrafted varieties made from regional grapes, with options ranging from dry to sweet to suit different palates. Guests can enjoy tastings, tours of the production facilities, and seasonal events that showcase the growing wine culture of the area.
11. Schmucker's Restaurant
NOSTALGIC COMFORT DINING
Schmucker's Restaurant has been serving homestyle comfort food to generations of patrons since 1948, maintaining its authentic mid-century diner atmosphere. The restaurant is renowned for its made-from-scratch pies, hearty breakfast platters, and classic lunch specials that represent traditional Midwestern cooking. Visitors appreciate the genuine vintage ambiance, complete with counter seating and nostalgic decor that creates an authentic slice of American dining history.
12. The Spot Restaurant
HISTORIC BURGER INSTITUTION
The Spot Restaurant is a beloved culinary landmark that has been serving its famous hamburgers and pie since 1907. The distinctive round building with its recognizable signage has become an icon of the region, attracting travelers and locals alike. Visitors enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere and consistent quality of this enduring eatery that represents over a century of Ohio dining tradition.
13. Candy Cane Christmas Shoppe
YEAR-ROUND HOLIDAY STORE
The Candy Cane Christmas Shoppe delights visitors with year-round Christmas merchandise and festive decor in a charming shopping environment. This specialty retailer offers an extensive selection of ornaments, decorations, gifts, and collectibles for holiday enthusiasts regardless of the season. Shoppers appreciate the magical atmosphere and unique merchandise that makes this destination worth visiting any time of the year.
14. Hawkes Crystal
FINE CRYSTAL ARTISANSHIP
Hawkes Crystal showcases the art of fine crystal craftsmanship through exquisite hand-cut pieces created by skilled artisans. Visitors can observe the meticulous process of crystal cutting and engraving while browsing the gallery of finished works available for purchase. This unique shopping destination preserves traditional crystal-making techniques while offering one-of-a-kind treasures for collectors and gift-givers.
15. Tony Packo's Cafe
FAMOUS HUNGARIAN HOT DOGS
Tony Packo's Cafe gained national fame through mentions on the TV show M*A*S*H and continues to attract visitors with its signature Hungarian hot dogs and distinctive atmosphere. The restaurant's walls feature hundreds of hot dog buns signed by celebrities who have visited over the decades, creating a unique dining environment. Guests enjoy authentic Hungarian-inspired comfort food including stuffed cabbage, chicken paprikas, and the legendary sweet hot pickles that complement their famous hot dogs.