Located on the shores of Lake Erie and the Maumee River, Toledo, Ohio is a thriving and historic metropolis in the state’s northwest corner. The city’s history in industry, its vibrant arts and culture, and its stunning natural scenery have all contributed to its widespread renown. Toledo’s museums and other cultural venues are among the city’s top draws. The Toledo Museum of Art has an outstanding collection of artwork from all over the world, making it a top contender for the title of best art museum in the United States. The Toledo Symphony Orchestra, Toledo Ballet, and Toledo Opera all call the city home, providing a wealth of opportunities for visitors to enjoy live performances and cultural events.
Toledo is home to a number of stunning parks and other natural areas in addition to its cultural landmarks. More than 14,000 acres of land are maintained as part of the Toledo Metroparks system, providing ample room for outdoor pursuits such as walking, cycling, and fishing. Maumee Bay State Park is close by and features gorgeous beaches, trails, and camping. The Toledo Zoo, the National Museum of the Great Lakes, and the Toledo Firefighters Museum are just a few examples of the city’s historic landmarks that visitors can explore to learn more about Toledo’s long and storied past.
15. Toledo Museum of Art
(image via Instagram)
The Toledo Museum of Art is a world-renowned art museum located in Toledo, Ohio. Founded in 1901, the museum houses a collection of over 30,000 works of art from around the world, including European and American paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photographs, and decorative arts.
The museum also features a variety of educational programs, lectures, and special exhibitions. The museum is free and open to the public and is a great place to explore the world of art.
14. Imagination Station Science Museum
(image via Instagram)
Imagination Station Science Museum is a science museum located in Toledo, Ohio. It is a hands-on science center that offers interactive exhibits and activities for all ages. The museum features a variety of exhibits and activities that focus on science, technology, engineering, and math.
Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits, which include a planetarium, a 3D theater, a robotics lab, and a variety of interactive exhibits. The museum also offers educational programs, workshops, and special events. Imagination Station Science Museum is a great place to explore science and have fun!
13. Toledo Zoo
(image via Instagram)
The Toledo Zoo is a zoo located in Toledo, Ohio. It is one of the oldest zoos in the United States, having opened in 1900. The zoo is home to over 10,000 animals, representing over 700 species.
It is a popular tourist attraction in the area and is known for its conservation efforts and educational programs. The zoo is also home to the Toledo Zoo Aquarium, which houses a variety of aquatic species.
12. National Museum of the Great Lakes
(image via Instagram)
The National Museum of the Great Lakes in Toledo, Ohio is a museum dedicated to the history of the Great Lakes region. It is located in the former Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship, a former Great Lakes freighter. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs that explore the history, culture, and environment of the Great Lakes.
Visitors can explore the history of the Great Lakes through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and educational programs. The museum also offers a variety of special events, including lectures, workshops, and family activities. The museum is open year-round and admission is free.
11. Stranahan Theater
(image via Instagram)
The Stranahan Theater is a historic theater located in Toledo, Ohio. It was built in 1930 and is one of the oldest theaters in the city. The theater is a popular venue for concerts, plays, and other live performances. It has a seating capacity of 2,500 and features a large stage, a balcony, and a grand lobby.
The theater is also home to the Toledo Symphony Orchestra and the Toledo Ballet. The Stranahan Theater is a beloved landmark in the city and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
10. Historic Old West End
(image via Instagram)
The Historic Old West End is a neighborhood in Toledo, Ohio that is known for its beautiful Victorian-style homes. The area was developed in the late 19th century and is now a National Historic District. The neighborhood is home to many of Toledo’s oldest and most beautiful homes, as well as a variety of businesses, restaurants, and other attractions.
The area is also home to the Toledo Museum of Art, the Toledo Zoo, and the Toledo Botanical Garden. The Historic Old West End is a great place to explore and experience the history of Toledo.
9. USS Cod Submarine Memorial
(image via Instagram)
The USS Cod Submarine Memorial in Toledo, Ohio is a memorial dedicated to the USS Cod, a World War II submarine that served in the Pacific Theater. The memorial is located at the International Park on the Maumee River in Toledo. It includes a full-scale replica of the submarine, a museum, and a memorial garden. The museum features artifacts from the submarine, including a periscope, a torpedo, and a deck gun.
The memorial garden includes a memorial wall with the names of the crew members who served on the USS Cod. The memorial is open to the public and offers educational programs and tours.
8. Drive along the Maumee River
(image via Instagram)
The Maumee River is a beautiful scenic drive in Toledo, Ohio. The river winds through the city, providing stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding countryside. Along the way, you can take in the sights of the historic downtown area, the University of Toledo, and the Maumee Riverwalk.
You can also stop at the Toledo Zoo, the Toledo Museum of Art, and the Toledo Botanical Garden. The drive is a great way to explore the city and its many attractions.
7. Fifth Third Field
(image via Instagram)
Fifth Third Field is the home of the Toledo Mud Hens, a Minor League Baseball team affiliated with the Detroit Tigers. The stadium opened in 2002 and has a capacity of 10,300. It is located in downtown Toledo and is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
The stadium features a variety of amenities, including a full-service restaurant, a bar, and a gift shop. The Mud Hens have won several championships since their inception in 1965, and the team is a beloved part of the Toledo community.
6. Collingwood Arts Center
(image via Instagram)
The Collingwood Arts Center (CAC) is a historic building located in Toledo, Ohio. It was built in 1912 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The CAC is a multi-use facility that houses a variety of arts organizations, including the Toledo Museum of Art, the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, the Toledo Opera, the Toledo Ballet, and the Toledo Repertoire Theatre.
The CAC also hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, art exhibitions, and educational programs. The CAC is a vibrant part of the Toledo arts community and is a great place to experience the arts.
5. The Huntington Center
(image via Instagram)
The Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio is a great place to enjoy a concert. The venue is a multi-purpose arena that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, sporting events, and family shows. The Huntington Center has a capacity of 8,000 and features a state-of-the-art sound system and lighting. The venue also offers a variety of amenities, including a full-service restaurant, a bar, and a variety of concession stands.
The Huntington Center is conveniently located in downtown Toledo, making it easy to access from anywhere in the city. Whether you’re looking for a night of music or a family-friendly show, the Huntington Center is the perfect place to enjoy a concert.
4. Toledo Farmers Market
(image via Instagram)
The Toledo Farmers Market is a vibrant and bustling farmers market located in Toledo, Ohio. It is open year-round and offers a wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and other specialty items. The market also features a variety of prepared foods, including sandwiches, salads, and soups.
This market is a great place to find unique items and support local farmers and businesses. It is a great place to shop for fresh, healthy, and locally grown food.
3. Wildwood Preserve Metropark
(image via Instagram)
Wildwood Preserve Metropark is a 1,100-acre park located in Toledo, Ohio. It is part of the Metroparks of the Toledo Area system and is one of the largest parks in the area. The park features a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, fishing, and picnicking.
It also has a nature center, a butterfly house, and a variety of wildlife. The park is home to a variety of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The park also has a variety of trails, including a boardwalk, a nature trail, and a paved trail.
2. Toledo Botanical Garden
(image via Instagram)
The Toledo Botanical Garden is a beautiful and tranquil oasis located in Toledo, Ohio. It is a 58-acre public garden that features a variety of gardens, including a Japanese garden, a rose garden, a children’s garden, a butterfly garden, and a wildflower meadow.
The garden also features a variety of sculptures, fountains, and other works of art. The Toledo Botanical Garden is a great place to relax and enjoy nature, and it is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike.
1. Toledo History Museum
(image via Instagram)
The Toledo History Museum is a museum located in Toledo, Ohio. It is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the city and its surrounding area. The museum was founded in 1837 and is the oldest museum in the state of Ohio.
It houses a variety of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Toledo’s past, from its Native American roots to its industrial and cultural development. The museum also offers educational programs and events for visitors of all ages.
Summary
As you can see, Toledo has a lot to offer everyone. If you are looking to do more in the surrounding area, check out other weekend trips from nearby Toledo, Ohio.
These areas are perfect for a quick day trip or a long weekend getaway. Explore our favorite things to do or peruse some pre-built itineraries.