Grand Rapids OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Grand Rapids, Ohio.
1. Providence Metropark & the Isaac Ludwig Mill
STEP BACK IN TIME
Providence Metropark offers visitors a chance to step back in time to the 1870s with an authentic mule-drawn canal boat ride along a restored stretch of the original Miami and Erie Canal. The Volunteer, an 1800s canal boat, glides along representing life on the canal as it was experienced 150 years ago, passing through one of the original canal locks in front of the historic Isaac Ludwig Mill. This working canal-era sawmill and grist mill serves as an Interpretive Center, bringing the canal history to life in Grand Rapids.
2. Wild Side Brewing
CRAFT BEER AND PIZZA
Wild Side Brewing is a popular brewery in Grand Rapids offering craft beer and delicious pizza in a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy special promotions like half-off pizza on Wednesdays, making it a perfect spot for a casual meal. The brewery provides a comfortable setting for both locals and tourists looking to unwind after exploring the area.
3. Beaver Creek Preserve
NATURAL WILDLIFE AREA
Beaver Creek Preserve is a natural wildlife area and park offering visitors a chance to experience the region's native flora and fauna. The preserve features walking trails that wind through diverse habitats, allowing for bird watching and wildlife spotting opportunities. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate this peaceful retreat that showcases the natural beauty of the Grand Rapids area.
4. Majestic Oak Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Majestic Oak Winery offers visitors a delightful wine tasting experience in the Grand Rapids area. The winery produces a variety of locally crafted wines that showcase the region's unique terroir and winemaking traditions. Guests can relax in the charming setting while sampling different wine varieties and learning about the winemaking process.
5. Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway
HISTORIC RAILROAD EXPERIENCE
The Toledo, Lake Erie & Western Railway offers visitors a nostalgic journey through history aboard vintage train cars. This historic railway provides scenic rides that showcase the beauty of the Maumee River Valley and surrounding countryside. Train enthusiasts and families alike will enjoy this unique attraction that preserves an important part of the region's transportation heritage.
6. Bluebell Park
SCENIC RIVER VIEWS
Bluebell Park is named after the former Bluebell Island, which was once located in the old Miami and Erie Sidecut Canal basin where canal boats turned around before heading west. This serene park offers some of the most picturesque views in Grand Rapids, making it a favorite location for photographers and nature lovers. The park's peaceful atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the village.
7. Grand Rapids Shopping District
VICTORIAN VILLAGE SHOPS
The Grand Rapids Shopping District is a beautifully restored working Victorian Village featuring elaborate brickwork, ornate moldings, and historic transom windows. Visitors can browse through numerous specialty shops offering a wide selection of fine merchandise in this postcard-perfect setting. The district also houses various dining options ranging from fine to casual, along with specialty food shops selling ice cream, candy, and espresso coffee.
8. Village Apothecary
NATIONAL HISTORIC PLACE
The Village Apothecary, built in 1896, is a historic building that has earned a place on The National Register of Historic Places. This well-preserved structure stands as a testament to Grand Rapids' rich architectural heritage and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. The building's historical significance and charming design make it an important landmark in the village's cultural landscape.
9. Downtown Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt
INTERACTIVE HISTORICAL TOUR
The Downtown Grand Rapids Scavenger Hunt takes participants on a thrilling two-mile adventure through the heart of this historic village. This interactive experience allows visitors to uncover hidden gems and historical landmarks while enjoying a fun, engaging activity. The scavenger hunt offers a unique way to learn about Grand Rapids' rich history and distinctive features that might otherwise go unnoticed.
10. The Mill House
HISTORIC BED & BREAKFAST
The Mill House, now operating as a bed and breakfast, was originally known as Stump's Mill, a steam-powered facility built around 1900. This historic building once saw long lines of horse-drawn wagons and cars pulling trailers as farmers waited to have grain reduced to flour or livestock feed. Today, the renovated Mill House offers visitors a chance to stay in a piece of Grand Rapids history while enjoying modern amenities and comfort.
11. Mary Jane Thurston State Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Mary Jane Thurston State Park boasts 555 acres of land that front 20 miles of the scenic Maumee River. The park offers excellent facilities for boating, picnicking, and fishing, making it a perfect outdoor recreation destination for visitors to Grand Rapids. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's diverse wildlife and beautiful riverside landscapes throughout the changing seasons.
12. Boat Docks
MAUMEE RIVER ACCESS
The Boat Docks in Grand Rapids provide convenient access to the beautiful Maumee River for boaters and fishing enthusiasts. These well-maintained facilities serve as a launching point for exploring the river's 20-mile stretch that runs alongside Mary Jane Thurston State Park. Visitors can enjoy peaceful river activities while taking in the natural beauty and wildlife that make this waterway a cherished natural resource.
13. Howard Cemetery
HISTORIC BURIAL GROUND
Howard Cemetery is a historic burial ground that offers visitors insight into Grand Rapids' past through its weathered tombstones and monuments. The cemetery serves as a peaceful memorial to the area's early settlers and prominent citizens who helped shape the community. History enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to explore this well-preserved piece of local heritage that tells stories of the village's development over time.
14. Jerry Wright Pavilion
COMMUNITY GATHERING SPACE
The Jerry Wright Pavilion serves as an important community gathering space in Grand Rapids, hosting various events and activities throughout the year. This covered structure provides shelter for picnics, celebrations, and community functions in a pleasant outdoor setting. The pavilion's convenient location and amenities make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors looking to enjoy Grand Rapids' community atmosphere.
15. Labino Park
RELAXING GREEN SPACE
Labino Park offers visitors a tranquil green space to relax and enjoy nature within Grand Rapids. The park features open areas for recreation, making it an ideal spot for families and individuals seeking outdoor leisure activities. Its well-maintained grounds provide a peaceful retreat from the bustle of everyday life while still being conveniently located within the village.