Visiting Toledo and Northwest Ohio

As northwest Ohio emerges into spring and summer, the Lake Erie shores and Islands come to life as flocks of birds return to their summer home in Ohio’s black swamp. With the warmer weather, the rivers and lakes fill with fishermen gaming for the walleye and watersports enthusiasts enjoying the sunshine. The seasons anticipation builds for the opening of Sandusky’s Cedar Point Amusement Park, as summer vacation looms. Festival and event season begins with the Biggest Week in American Birding, Port Clinton’s Main Street Walleye Festival, and Ohio Bike Week. From the Warbler and Walleye Capitals of the World, northern Ohio is ready for your spring and summer visit.

Northwest Ohio, the "Warbler Capital of the World”, celebrates the 2012 Biggest Week in American Birding along Lake Erie Shores and Islands. Hosted by Lucas County Visitors’ and Convention Bureau, Ottawa County & Erie County Visitors’ and Convention Bureau and the Black Swamp Bird Observatory, located 16-miles northwest of Port Clinton. Set on the south edge of the Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge and west of Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, this region is prime environment for birding. Join bird experts and fellow birders May 3rd through the 13th.

Just in time for Mother’s Day, Cedar Point opens the 2012 season May 12th. Considered one of the best amusement parks in the world, Cedar Point features over 150 rides, shows and attractions. Famous for its 17 roller coasters, there is a ride every will enjoy. Even the youngest family members squeal as they enjoy four kids areas featuring live appearances by Peanuts characters, and pint sized rides designed especially for the little ones.

Kick off summer at the 2012 Main Street Port Clinton Walleye Festival. A great Memorial Day Weekend fun, May 24th through the 28th, bring the entire family for the Grande Parade, Kids Fishing Derby and carnival rides. Featuring more than 130 vendors, a citywide garage sale along with a 5K race, the walleye festival is a full four-day weekend of fun and entertainment. Join the festivities at Waterworks Park on Perry Street in Port Clinton.

Motorcycle enthusiasts get ready for Ohio Bike Week 2012. Formerly the Northcoast Thunder Rally, this is Northern Ohio’s premier bikers event. Gather with the crowds in Sandusky and along the shores of Lake Erie, June 1st through the 10th. The 2012 events include the Indians Country MusicFest featuring headliners Brad Paisley, Blake Shelton and more, all Harley Drag Races and various concerts.

A popular summer tradition, the 2012 Huron River Fest is July 13th through the 15th. Joint the Saturday parade complete with floats, bands, cars and the Huron River Fest Queen & her court. Huron, just ten-miles south of Sandusky, fills with classic cars, bring your pet for the Saturday Critter Crawl and at least one night of fireworks.

Toledo and Northwest Ohio Hotel Map