Northwood OhioATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Northwood, Ohio.
1. Cedar Creeks Preserve
SERENE NATURAL SANCTUARY
Cedar Creeks Preserve is a hidden gem nestled in Northwood, offering expansive natural landscapes with serene gardens, picturesque hiking paths, and inviting picnic areas. Visitors can explore a rich tapestry of ecosystems while encountering vibrant flora and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal environment for birdwatching and photography. The preserve features well-maintained pathways that lead through enchanting woodlands and alongside sparkling creeks, with a playground that makes it perfect for family outings.
2. Northwood Flea Market
TREASURE HUNTER'S PARADISE
Northwood Flea Market is a popular destination for bargain hunters and collectors seeking unique treasures and vintage items. The market features numerous vendors selling everything from antiques and collectibles to handmade crafts and everyday household items. Visitors can spend hours browsing through the diverse selection while enjoying the thrill of discovering one-of-a-kind finds.
3. Indoorsand
INDOOR BEACH EXPERIENCE
Indoorsand offers a unique indoor beach experience where visitors can enjoy sand activities regardless of the weather outside. The facility provides a climate-controlled environment with real sand, creating a beach-like atmosphere for families and children to play. Visitors can build sandcastles, participate in sand games, and enjoy various beach-inspired activities without worrying about sunburn or rain.
4. Penny Jo's Eastern Lanes
FAMILY BOWLING FUN
Penny Jo's Eastern Lanes is a beloved local bowling alley offering family-friendly entertainment for all ages. The facility features well-maintained lanes, automatic scoring, and bowling equipment rentals to ensure everyone can participate regardless of experience level. Beyond bowling, visitors can enjoy arcade games, snack options, and special events that make it a complete entertainment destination.
5. Royal Bar
LOCAL WATERING HOLE
Royal Bar is a popular local establishment known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service. The bar offers a wide selection of beverages, including craft beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic options to suit various preferences. Patrons can enjoy socializing, watching sports events on multiple screens, and participating in regular entertainment offerings like karaoke and trivia nights.
6. National Museum of the Great Lakes
MARITIME HISTORY SHOWCASE
The National Museum of the Great Lakes showcases the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes region through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore the SS Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship, a restored 1911 lake freighter that offers a glimpse into life aboard a working Great Lakes vessel. The museum's comprehensive displays cover shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the economic and cultural impact of the Great Lakes on the region.
7. Toledo Museum of Art
WORLD-CLASS ART COLLECTION
Toledo Museum of Art houses a world-renowned collection spanning thousands of years of artistic achievement from ancient civilizations to contemporary works. The museum is particularly famous for its exceptional glass collection, reflecting Toledo's heritage as the Glass City, and features a Glass Pavilion where visitors can watch glassblowing demonstrations. With over 30,000 works of art, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and Picasso, the museum offers an enriching cultural experience in a stunning architectural setting.
8. Imagination Station
HANDS-ON SCIENCE CENTER
Imagination Station is an interactive science center offering hundreds of hands-on exhibits that make learning about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics both fun and educational. Visitors of all ages can participate in live demonstrations, experiment with scientific principles, and engage with exhibits that range from simple machines to complex physics concepts. The center regularly hosts special exhibitions and educational programs designed to inspire curiosity and foster a deeper understanding of the world through scientific discovery.
9. Toledo Zoo & Aquarium
WILDLIFE AND MARINE WONDERS
The Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is home to over 10,000 animals representing more than 720 species from around the world, set in naturalistic habitats. The aquarium section features a stunning array of marine life, from colorful tropical fish to mesmerizing jellyfish displays, all housed in state-of-the-art exhibits. Beyond animal exhibits, visitors can enjoy botanical gardens, seasonal events, educational programs, and interactive experiences like feeding giraffes or touching stingrays.
10. Toledo Botanical Garden
URBAN FLORAL OASIS
Toledo Botanical Garden spans 60 acres of diverse gardens, featuring specialized collections including perennials, roses, wildflowers, and an artisan village. Visitors can wander through themed areas such as the Japanese Garden, the Pioneer Garden, and the Herb Garden, each showcasing different plant species and landscape designs. Throughout the year, the garden hosts various events, art exhibitions, and educational programs, making it a cultural and natural sanctuary within the urban environment.
11. Maumee Bay State Park
LAKESIDE RECREATION PARADISE
Maumee Bay State Park encompasses 1,336 acres of beautiful natural landscape along the shores of Lake Erie, offering diverse recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. The park features a sandy beach, inland lake, wetlands, meadows, and wooded areas accessible via an extensive network of hiking trails and boardwalks. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, golfing on the championship golf course, wildlife watching, or staying overnight at the lodge or in one of the park's cabins or campgrounds.
12. Stranahan Arboretum
URBAN FOREST RETREAT
Stranahan Arboretum is a 47-acre natural preserve owned by the University of Toledo, serving as both a research facility and public green space. The arboretum contains a diverse collection of trees, shrubs, and wildlife, with walking paths winding through woodland areas, meadows, and alongside a stream. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature, observe native plants and animals, and participate in educational programs focused on ecology and environmental conservation.
13. Tony Packo's Cafe
ICONIC HUNGARIAN HOT DOGS
Tony Packo's Cafe is a legendary Toledo institution famous for its Hungarian-style hot dogs and comfort food, first opened in 1932 and made nationally famous by mentions on the TV show M*A*S*H. The restaurant's walls are adorned with hot dog buns signed by celebrities, creating a unique atmosphere that celebrates both local history and pop culture. Visitors come for the signature Hungarian hot dogs topped with spicy chili sauce, but stay for other authentic dishes like stuffed cabbage, chicken paprikas, and apple strudel.
14. Fifth Third Field
HOME OF MUD HENS
Fifth Third Field is the home stadium of the Toledo Mud Hens, the Triple-A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, offering an intimate baseball experience in downtown Toledo. The ballpark features excellent sightlines from every seat, modern amenities, and a family-friendly atmosphere with activities and concessions designed to enhance the game-day experience. Beyond baseball, the venue hosts community events, concerts, and has contributed significantly to the revitalization of Toledo's downtown Warehouse District.
15. Levis Commons
UPSCALE OUTDOOR SHOPPING
Levis Commons is a premier open-air lifestyle center offering a sophisticated shopping, dining, and entertainment experience in a beautifully designed town center setting. The development features a mix of national retailers, boutique shops, restaurants ranging from casual to fine dining, and entertainment options including a cinema. With its pedestrian-friendly layout, seasonal events, and attractive landscaping, Levis Commons provides a pleasant atmosphere for shopping, socializing, or simply enjoying time outdoors.