Department of Transportation
The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODot) wants you to be safe on Ohio’s roadways. ODot offers many tools and resources to get you safely to your destination at transportation.ohio.gov. Car-Fit, a community-based educational program that promotes continued safe driving and mobility among older drivers by focusing attention on safety, comfort and fit, is quite helpful. ODot also publishes articles, videos and links specifically for senior citizens.
Wood County Park District
The Wood County Park District is a natural resources conservation agency with twenty parks and nature preserves. Only 30-45 minutes away, the district offers trails, fishing, hunting, kayaking, boating, beautiful views, picnic areas, rental facilities and other programs galore. Open daily 8 am until 30 minutes past sunset. wcparks.org, Park District Headquarters: 419-353-1897, Program Department: 419-661-1697
Fort Wayne
Family is at the heart of Fort Wayne, Indiana. Only a 90-minute drive away, with high-quality attractions, affordable admissions, and that big-city, small-town feel, families LOVE this city. From year-round attractions to summer favorites, Fort Wayne makes for a family-friendly road trip that is worthwhile. Adventure along eight miles of riverfront downtown, explore more than 150 pieces of public art on Fort Wayne’s Public Art Trail, or enjoy the food and fun in new destinations like The Landing – a walkable block where you can find public art, friends gathering and dining destinations at seven restaurants. Find out more by calling 260-424-3700 or go to visitfortwayne.com.
Toledo Museum of Art
Day trips do not require a long drive. A perfect local day trip is to the world-renowned Toledo Museum of Art. Take a group tour— either self-guided or led by a docent— or search the collection online before you go, to find specific artists, pieces and collections. Though the Museum is free, some special programs require a ticket or collect a fee. Open Wednesday-Sunday, 11 am to 8 pm. Parking is free for members and $10 for non-members. toledomuseum.org
Sauder Village
Sauder Farm, a nonprofit organization, is the home of Ohio’s largest living history museum. The Archbold, OH 235-acre complex offers a complement of food, lodging and retail services, making it an ideal destination for a day trip. With plenty of delicious food options, the chance to visit a tradesperson working in glass or metal or walking the wetlands trails, Sauder offers a memorable trip back in time. 22611 State Route 2, Archbold. 800-590-9755. saudervillage.org.
Grand Rapids, Ohio
This quaint village just a 30-mile drive from Toledo will take you back in time. Enjoy a stroll around Mary Jane Thurston State Park or take a ride on the Providence Metropark Canal Boat. Visitors can also explore the Isaac R. Ludwig Historic Mill. While there, stop at Knucklehead’s Kafe for a delicious meal and enjoy some shopping downtown. grandrapidsohio.com
Marblehead, Ohio
Paradise is only a short 90-minute drive away. Enjoy a day in the historic lakeside village of Marblehead. Stop by Marblehead Lighthouse, the oldest operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes, enjoy a beach day at East Harbor State Park Beach or walk through the Great Egret Marsh Preserve. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining. shoresandislands.com/communities/north-shores/marblehead
Toledo Lucas County Public Library
One need not drive far to enjoy a fascinating day at the Toledo Lucas Public Library (“TLCPL”). The 19 branch libraries are each unique and equally satisfying in their offerings. A free library card also puts you in touch with free movies and videos, books on tape or through your phone, reading groups, computers, free WiFi, printers, and more. Also, seniors might take advantage of free legal help or health screenings on certain dates, as well as passport assistance, COVID test kits and dog licensing. toledolibrary.org.
