Blake Walsh

25 Best Things to Do in Findlay, OH

  • Published 2022/10/27

Nestled on the banks of the Blanchard River, Findlay is a picturesque city known for its rich history and astounding natural beauty.

It offers year-round nature-based outdoor recreation opportunities, such as hiking, biking, camping, kayaking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, fishing, swimming, and plenty more.

It also has a vast array of outstanding art galleries and fascinating museums.

Findlay is a nature lover’s paradise, where you can enjoy nature while staying close to city life.

Don’t miss out on the gorgeous sunsets and riverside hikes while vacationing here.

It is the ideal destination to plan your next holiday and escape into nature.

Here’s a list of the best things to do in Findlay:

Appreciate Nature’s Beauty at Riverside Park

Waterfall at Riverside Park

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Located on the banks of the mesmerizing Blanchard River, this picturesque park attracts myriads of nature lovers.

It features an enchanting waterfall, dense foliage, picnic areas, sprawling greenery, playground, grills, a bandshell, basketball courts, hiking trails, baseball diamonds, volleyball courts, a swimming pool, beach area, a boat launch, and so much more.

The park is known for its astounding natural beauty and heavenly views.

It is popular for a broad array of recreational activities, such as swimming, fishing, birding, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, picnicking, and more.

Enjoy a refreshing riverside stroll while appreciating the breathtaking views.

Explore the river waters by paddle boating or kayaking, and beat the heat by swimming in the park’s pool.

Try your hand at fishing, indulge in a fun game of volleyball or basketball, hike on the verdant trails, and relish a lovely riverside picnic.

You can enjoy an excellent book or simply relax under the shade of a tree in the park’s tranquil atmosphere.

This park is a great place to take a break from the monotonous and mundane life and escape into nature.

Stop by Jeffrey’s Antique Gallery for Some Antique Shopping

For more than three decades, Jeffrey’s Antique Galleries has been a premier antique mall near Exit 161 of I-75.

The 38,000-square-foot building is home to over 300 dealers and showcases shelves upon shelves of trinkets.

You will discover various things as you wander around, from furniture, silverware, primitives, clocks, coins, soda pop, advertising, gas & oil, to glassware antiquities, etc.

They also offer a variety of dine-in or take-out refreshments as well as ice cream sodas!

If you’re looking for a full day of shopping and hanging out with your family and friends, come to Jeffrey’s Antique Gallery, where admission and parking are free!

When the weather gets hot, they also offer air conditioning, so you can spend as much time as you need roaming around the various floors of the mall.

They also welcome pets at their establishment, and they have a spacious area outside for all sorts of vehicles, such as an RV, a camper, a truck, and so on.

Tour the Swiss Community Historical Society

The Schumacher Homestead features a house, a summer kitchen, a barn, and a picturesque garden.

It dated back to 1843 and was home to the Schumacher family who had moved to Ohio from Switzerland in the 19th century.

The house represents a Swiss settlement house from the 1800s and features various historical artifacts, including furniture, utensils, and more.

Tour the house, the replica summer kitchen, barn, and the gardens to get a glimpse into the lives of Swiss settlers of this region during the 1800s.

Explore Fascinating Regional History at Hancock Historical Museum

Bedroom in Hancock Historical Museum

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This renowned museum emphasizes the history of Hancock County and the state of Ohio.

It consists of an agricultural building, Crawford Log House, DeWald-Funk House, Davis Homestead, Hull/Flater house, Marathon Petroleum Corporation Energy and Transportation Annex, Michael G.

Oxley Government Center, and the Little Red Schoolhouse.

The museum also maintains the Riverside Train, which was previously located in Riverside Park.

The Agricultural Building, also known as the “Barn,” focuses on the region’s history of agriculture and farming.

The Crawford Log House dated back to 1840 and was home to Samuel Crawford and his family.

Exterior of Hancock Historical Museum

Mbrickn, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It gives you a glimpse of the lifestyle of early settlers of the region.

The DeWald-Funk house is another 19th-century log cabin home that lets you learn about the fascinating lifestyle of the people of this region during the Civil War era.

The Davis Homestead is one of the oldest farmhouses in the region and dates back to the 1800s.

It was moved to the museum campus after its original farm was sold.

Constructed in 1881, the Hull/Flater House was formerly home to one of the founders of Findlay Artificial Gas and Light Company and his family.

Hull-Flater house at Hancock Historical Museum

Mbrickn, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The family lived here until 1906, after which the Flater family moved in.

The house has been maintained to accurately represent its appearance if the families were still residing there.

The museum’s exhibits also include vintage cars and motorcycles.

Tour the Michael G. Oxley Government Center to check out the interactive exhibits about the history of civic leadership.

Various events are organized at the museum all year round, such as movie nights, Oktoberfest, Craft Cocktail competition, lectures, and many more.

Visit this museum and check out the numerous historical artifacts and learn about the fascinating history of Hancock County.

Buildings at Hancock Historical Museum

Mbrickn, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Skate at The Cube Ice Arena

For nearly forty years, The Cube Ice Arena has been the birthplace of many athletes and hosts for spectacular feats on the rink.

You can visit it anytime from September through late March or sometimes as early as May.

You can find The Cube Ice Arena at 318 Dorney Plaza, Findlay.

When you’re here during those warm July and August months, though, it’d be best to leave your skates at home.

Be sure to take one minute out of your day before booking your tickets to make sure everything is up-to-date at all times.

If you’re going to The Cube Ice Arena, remember to bring enough cash with you as well; the Cube is a financially responsible facility, which makes them require full payment upon arrival.

You will find an ATM in the lobby for easy access; just remember that it’s CASH ONLY.

Spend a Fun Day at Children’s Museum of Findlay

This is a prominent children’s museum that provides hands-on learning experiences through its various fun exhibits.

It aims to help kids learn maths, science, arts, technology, and more in a fun and interesting way.

It is suitable for kids up to 10 years of age.

The various exhibits include a bank, climbing wall, farm, fire station, quarry, grocery store, schoolhouse, theatre, hospital, glow zone lightroom, and so much more.

The museum is open from Wednesdays to Saturdays, from 11 am to 4 pm.

Visit this place and spend a fun-filled day with your loved ones.

Watch the Sunset at Findlay Reservoir

The waters of Findlay Reservoir

Jennifer Risser / shutterstock.com

Encompassing over 830 acres, these two picturesque reservoirs are popular for a vast array of outdoor recreation, such as hiking, jogging, birding, picnicking, boating, and fishing.

The waters are home to numerous fishes, including walleye, largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, catfish, bluegill, and others.

The site provides fantastic opportunities for birding, and you can spot several waterfowls, shorebirds, eagles, horned larks, and more.

Hike along the scenic shores and enjoy the spectacular views of the tranquil waters.

It is a perfect place to watch gorgeous sunsets and relish a lovely lakeside picnic.

Explore the waters by boating and enjoy fishing here.

The tranquil environment really helps you unwind and relax.

Hiking in Oakwoods Nature Preserve

This popular tourist attraction features the Richard S. “Doc” Phillips Discovery Center, two serene lakes, dense foliage, wetlands, nature trails, picnic areas, boat launch, diverse wildlife, fishing decks, prairie, farmlands, and much more.

It is a nature lover’s paradise that attracts myriads of hikers and anglers.

The site is also very popular for kayaking, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and birding.

Enjoy an invigorating hike on the verdant trails and feast your eyes to the splendid views around the park.

You can spot rabbits, owls, foxes, butterflies, and squirrels.

The Discovery Center features a picturesque butterfly garden and fascinating interactive exhibits on the wildlife found in the nature preserve.

The waters of Shank and Dold lakes are home to bluegill, bass, catfish, crappie, and more.

Enjoy boating and fishing on the lakes and relish a nice lakeside picnic while admiring nature’s heavenly beauty.

Outdoor Recreation at Riverbend Recreation Area

Located on the banks of Blanchard River, this park provides numerous opportunities for nature-based outdoor recreation, such as hiking, jogging, boating, fishing, camping, disc golf, picnicking, and plenty more.

The park features a serene lake, verdant trails, campsites, disc golf course, picnic areas, playgrounds, fishing decks, a winter sports center, a dog park, volleyball courts, an arboretum, sprawling greenery, and so much more.

You can also access the Blanchard River Water Trail from this park.

In winter, Riverbend Park is a popular site for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

You can enjoy spectacular views through all four seasons.

Camp here at night to explore the region’s wilderness.

Have an amazing time paddle boating in the river.

Landlubbers can enjoy a scenic riverside hike or relish a lovely picnic by the lake.

Indulge in a fun game of volleyball and test your skills in the disc golf course.

Enjoy a book and relax under the shade of a tree in the tranquil atmosphere of the park.

Browse Art at the University of Findlay’s Mazza Museum

Interior of the Mazza Museum

Ruhrfisch, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This renowned museum focuses on picture book art.

It has grown from its small beginnings with just four pieces of art in 1982 to its present collection of over 14000 artworks.

The museum has six galleries that display over 300 exhibits at any time.

It is affiliated with the University of Findlay and organizes various events throughout the year.

Exterior of the University of Findlay's Mazza Museum

Ruhrfisch, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Admission to the museum is absolutely free.

It is open to the public on Sundays from 1 pm – 4 pm and from Wednesdays through Fridays between 12 pm – 5 pm.

Tour the museum and check out the outstanding pieces of artistic works.

Tour the Black Heritage Library and Multicultural Center

Established in 1982, this is an internationally acclaimed museum and a lending library featuring exhibits from various countries.

The museum aims to highlight the significant contributions made by the African-American community through its exhibits that include numerous historical artifacts and cultural memorabilia.

Check out its award-winning exhibit that focuses on the history of the Second World War Tuskegee Airmen.

Throughout the year, numerous events are organized here, including the black history month celebration, Native American Pow Wow, Cinco de Mayo, Dr.

Martin Luther King program and unity walk, and more.

Picnicking in Van Buren State Park

Bird perched on a tree at Van Buren State Park

James W. Thompson / Shutterstock.com

Encompassing nearly 300 acres, this park is popular for camping, hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.

It features a large serene lake, woodlands, and nature trails.

The park is surrounded by picturesque agricultural lands, including soybeans, wheat, and cornfields.

You can spot deer, owls, red foxes, snakes, opossums, squirrels, bluebirds, meadowlarks, and many more.

The lake is excellent for fishing, and you can catch bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, and more.

Explore the tranquil waters by paddle boating or canoeing.

Hike on the verdant trails that meander through the woods and bring along a nice picnic to enjoy while admiring the scenic views.

Camp here at night to stargaze and experience nature.

Train Rides at Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation

The grounds of Northwest Ohio Railroad Preservation

Mbrickn, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

This well-known tourist attraction features quarter-scale train rides and a museum with fascinating displays.

It attracts myriads of train aficionados all year round.

The train rides are available during special events and include the Halloween Express, Trick-or-Treat train, North Pole Express, Pumpkin Train, Family Fun Day, and more.

Throughout the year, numerous events are organized here, such as model train shows, Pumpkin Fest, Findlay Country Fest, and several others.

Kids love the museum.

Visit this museum and enjoy the exhilarating train rides.

Watch a Show at Marathon Centre for the Performing Arts

This performing arts theatre presents numerous performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, concerts, ballet, comedy shows, and more.

Additionally, it features an art gallery and event hall.

It is a popular venue for weddings, reunions, and other social gatherings.

This is a great place for a wonderful evening’s entertainment.

Get tickets and watch a live show here.

Kayaking at Blanchard River Nature Preserve

This nature preserve features the Blanchard River and is famous for hiking, birding, photography, kayaking, and canoeing.

Hike on the verdant trail that winds through the woods and runs parallel to the river.

Enjoy canoeing or kayaking in the waters and feast your eyes on the breathtaking views of the region’s wilderness.

You can spot numerous woodpeckers, yellow-throated warblers, and Acadian flycatchers.

Take a break from the mundane and monotonous daily routine and escape into nature here.

Explore Litzenberg Memorial Woods and McKinnis House

This site features woodlands, wetlands, sprawling greenery, a playground, nature trails, a 19th-century garden, and the 1847 McKinnis House.

The McKinnis family moved to this house in the 1800s.

Today, it is a museum that has been maintained to show how the house looked like when the family was residing there.

You can also find costumed interpreters at the house.

The site is a great place for hiking, picnicking and exploring nature.

Owing to the scenic views and tranquil atmosphere, it also happens to be a popular venue for reunions and other social gatherings.

Get a Taste of Findlay Brewing Company’s Best Craft Beer and Burgers!

Outside View of Findlay Brewing Company

Mbrickn, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Findlay Brewing Company is a well-loved establishment in the area, thanks to its diverse menu and commitment to serving fresh, quality fare.

Their burgers may be a show stopper to some, but for your money, their macaroni and cheese dishes are a knockout.

Some might say you can never have enough of a good thing, but that isn’t always true.

There’s no doubt that Findlay has some excellent cooks on staff who work hard every day to prepare the best meals possible.

But it would benefit them if they were less heavy-handed when pressing out such popular dishes, such as burgers, because you will get what you pay for – too much pressure, and it’ll dry it out big time!

Their spicy dipping sauce goes great with drinks and pretty much any meal on the menu.

Watch a Game at Emory Adams Park

This park features a basketball court, sports fields, walking paths, a playground, picnic areas, and more.

It has multiple baseball, softball, soccer, and lacrosse fields.

You can hike on the walking paths to enjoy the views and then relish a delicious meal in the picnic areas.

The park is also host to numerous events, such as hot air balloon festivals, health runs, sports tournaments, and more.

Play Golf and Dine Afterwards at Shady Grove Golf Course and Restaurant

Northwest Ohio’s Shady Grove Golf Course and Restaurant has been a summertime attraction for over 50 years.

The establishment is a vacation spot run and owned by a family.

The driving range plus mini golf course was constructed in 1960, while the restaurant was established in 1959.

Located in Findlay, Ohio, Shady Grove Golf Course has 18 holes and a par of 3.

It is an excellent course for beginners and experienced players who wish to improve their short game because the holes range from 63 to 190 yards.

In the Grove’s wide outdoor dining, savor in more than 30 kinds of flurry, or order a meal to eat and linger for a while!

Unwind and Ride a Horse at Triple T Ranch

The Triple T Ranch is run and owned by Christians.

The Old and New Testaments, which they regard as God’s divine Word, serve as the foundation for their morals, beliefs, and business methods.

Experience God’s natural splendor while riding a horse through the ten gorgeous, undeveloped acres of the Triple T Ranch’s woods.

There are 30 and 60-minute horse riding classes offered for western riding.

There are various unique events and Triple T Ranch group excursions, especially for kids.

Engaging in a trail ride is ideal for unwinding on a warm summer afternoon or finding peace.

Learn Something New at Findlay-Hancock County Public Library

Interior of Findlay-Hancock County Public Library

ChicagoPhotographer / Shutterstock.com

On January 27, 1890, a basement chamber of the Hancock County Courthouse became the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library.

They provide a wide range of extra services, such as photocopying, scanning, faxing, booking conference rooms, mobile printing, and using public computers.

Presently, the Extension and Outreach Department visits the villages of Hancock County in a classy Bookmobile acquired in 2021 and a matching Outreach vehicle, a Chevy Traverse, offering its collections, details on programs, and digital resources.

The Bookmobile, a mobile library, provides services to localities across Hancock County.

It has a large selection of books, music, periodicals, and movies that people of all ages may borrow on the spot.

The Bookmobile has around 1600 books, 1200 movies, more than a hundred periodicals and music CDs, and 35 audiobooks.

Watch a Beautiful Performance in Fort Findlay Playhouse

Nearby to downtown Findlay is where you’ll find the Fort Findlay Playhouse.

It is a non-profit organization giving the community top-notch fun and entertainment for more than 60 years while highlighting local talent.

A core group of extremely skilled and committed volunteers run the Fort Findlay Playhouse and put on 5 to 7 performances per year.

This covers both sporadic Second Stage shows and its usual five-show season.

The generosity of the Playhouse’s patrons and benefactors, and also the support of the nearby companies that run advertisements in the performance program booklets, is what keeps it going.

Go Nuts with Wolfies Roasted Nuts

The first level of Wolfies Roasted Nuts is a kid’s paradise, with penny candies, comic books, and creaking wooden floorboards.

Wolfies Roasted Nuts started producing Crunchy Roasted Nuts in February 1996.

Their Crunchy Roasted Nuts have become a global favorite due to their sharp flavor and crisp coating, which are improved by their unique method.

They are constantly looking for tasty methods to complement the whole collection of rich roasted nuts, redskins, or delectable cashews.

Wolfie’s roasted nut products are made with the best ingredients and packed for maximum freshness.

They are infused with boldness and fashioned with heritage.

Final Thoughts

If Findlay has one thing, it’s undoubtedly the awesome things you can experience here!

Indeed, Findlay is the perfect place to visit for outdoor adventures, engaging museums, and remarkable parks and landscapes that offer various activities and landmarks.

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