Visiting Toledo and Northwest Ohio

Toledo, the largest city in northwest Ohio, provides visitors with the culture, restaurants and shopping of an urban city, however, is not the only place to go in northwest Ohio. On the shores of Lake Erie, there are several interesting towns to discover, including some island activities, unexpected for many. Port Clinton offers easy access to Put-in-Bay Township on small south Bass Island in Lake Erie. Plan now to enjoy the late spring events.

The 36th Annual Island Day is held mid-June downtown in DeRivera Park. The festival celebrates the island heritage with great food and lots of fun for the entire family. Later in June, Pirate Fest is held in Put-in Bay's downtown harbor. With a parade and costume contest kids and adults will have fun. The Brig Niagara is a favorite, offering day sails and ship tours over the weekend. Events include a pirate marketplace, black powder and cannon firing demonstrations - you will even catch some sword fighting and skulduggery. This is a terrific weekend for a family getaway.

Port Clinton, back on the mainland, also has a full schedule of events for locals and visitors. The 17th Annual Port Clinton Area Chamber of Commerce Arts and Craft Show, in June, showcases local artists and their works, crafts and the best regional food. See demonstrations, enjoy live music and get the kids involved in arts activities – a nice way to enjoy the late spring weather. The Best Western Port Clinton is convenient for local activities and Put-in-Bay. They offer a complimentary shuttle to the Jet Express for the quick trip to Put-In-Bay.

Further inland in northwest Ohio travelers will find historic and charming towns. Proud of their heritage and culture, residents celebrate with festivals and events throughout the year. Bowling Green is the county seat for Wood county, which brings its past to life at the Wood County Heritage Days. Held in June, this is a celebration of the county's ties with agriculture. An antique farm and tractor show and demonstrations give a glimpse of life in earlier days. Events include a tractor parade, kids pedal pull, live music and kid's games. Fun for the entire family, don't miss the BBQ on Sunday.

Wauseon Ohio hosts the Black Swamp Quilt Auction and Family Festival, also in June. This festival celebrates Mennonite tradition and culture, with a quilt auction and weekend of fun family activities. Lots of food, the auction, shopping for local handcrafted wares and kid's games and activities fill the schedule. For the active the 6th Annual Bullfrom K Run/Walk will be held, and for the youth an oozeball tournament. The Best Western Del Mar in Wauseon is convenient and a nice room may come in handy to clean up after the oozeball tournament.

Toledo and Northwest Ohio Hotel Map