Columbus Grove Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Columbus Grove with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore unique attractions, outdoor adventures, foodie hotspots, and much more.


Introduction to Columbus Grove

Nestled in the beautiful Northwestern Ohio, Columbus Grove is the epitome of small town charm. The community is renowned for its friendly locals and is an excellent destination for a relaxing vacation. The town provides visitors with an array of awe-inspiring natural attractions, fascinating cultural experiences, and delightful Midwest hospitality. In this travel guide, we have compiled a list of must-visit destinations and activities to help you plan your perfect vacation to Columbus Grove.

List of Places to Visit in Columbus Grove

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Ohio Automotive Museum

If you are a vintage car connoisseur, you are in for a treat. The Ohio Automotive Museum is home to a vast collection of antique cars from the 1920s through to the 70s. The museum offers visitors a chance to take a trip down memory lane as they marvel at the various models, including Chevy’s, Fords, and Harley-Davidsons.

The Locomotive Museum and Park

The Locomotive Museum and Park is a historical gem that has preserved the past in its artifacts. The museum houses an extensive collection of historical handheld and rare cameras, and other artifacts that tell the story of Columbus Grove’s railway development. There is also a magnificent restored steam engine, which visitors can explore.

Natural Attractions of Columbus Grove: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Meadows of Ottawa

The Meadows of Ottawa is a beautiful natural area that spans over 100 acres of lush greenery and an array of wildflowers. It is a peaceful oasis that provides ample opportunities for leisurely walks, birdwatching, and picnics. Be sure to pack your camera to capture the stunning views.

Prospect Park

For breathtaking views of the city skyline, head to Prospect Park. This beautifully maintained park has a relaxing atmosphere and makes an ideal spot for a picnic or barbecue. Additionally, there is a playground for children and walking trails for those who want to take in the views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Columbus Grove

Columbus Grove boasts an expansive network of hiking and biking trails that lead adventures across stunning terrain through its beautiful countryside.

Ottawa-Jerusalem Twp Parks and Trails

The Ottawa-Jerusalem Twp Parks and Trails provides opportunities for hiking and biking across the entirety of Columbus Grove. The scenic trail provides excursions through the lush green countryside, and it is often teeming with local birdlife, including blue heron, bald eagles, and osprey.

Best Things to Do in Columbus Grove: Activities and Tours

Cheese and Country Wine Trail

The Cheese and Country Wine Trail is an excellent introduction to the local cuisine and beverages of Columbus Grove. With numerous stops that encompass dedicated cheese shops and wineries, visitors have the chance to taste some of the most delicious and authentic flavors in the region.

Putt-Putt Golf and Games

Putt-Putt Golf and Games provides endless hours of entertainment for visitors of all ages. The facility is complete with an array of interactive activities, including everything from putt-putt golf to go-karts, to mini-golf.

Week-Long Itinerary for Columbus Grove

Day 1: Visit the Ohio Automotive Museum and The Locomotive Museum and Park Day 2: Explore the Meadows of Ottawa Day 3: Enjoy a day trip to the magnificent Lake Erie Islands Day 4: Experience the thrill of Putt-Putt Golf and Games Day 5: Take a hike at the Ottawa-Jerusalem Parks and Trails Day 6: Take a guided Cheese and Country Wine Trail Tour Day 7: Relax and take in the beautiful scenery of Prospect Park

Food and Drink Scene of Columbus Grove

Must-Try Dishes

Buckeye Cheesecake

The Buckeye Cheesecake is a local favorite, and it’s a must-try dessert when visiting Columbus Grove. It is made with a delicious peanut butter filling and topped with creamy chocolate and nuts.

The Breakfast Sandwich

The Breakfast Sandwich is a classic savory dish that is perfect for hearty breakfast. This local variant swaps out traditional ham or bacon for scrapple, a sausage made from cornmeal and pork scraps.

Local Beverages

Columbus Grove Beer

The Columbus Grove Beer is a locally brewed delight that prides itself on being “too good to export.” The beer is a true embodiment of Columbus Grove’s deep-rooted traditions and flavors.

Where to Stay in Columbus Grove: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham

The Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham aims to provide a peaceful and comfortable stay in Columbus Grove. The guestrooms have excellent features that cater to a broad range of visitors, from business travelers to families.

What to Buy in Columbus Grove: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ohio State Crafts

Ohio State Crafts is the perfect place to pick up locally-made souvenirs and gifts to bring home. The crafts range from handcrafted pottery to hand-blown glassware. You can also buy locally roasted coffee beans and delicious jams and jellies.

Local Culture and Customs of Columbus Grove

Columbus Grove has a rich cultural heritage that extends beyond its history and museums. The locals are known for their warmth and friendliness and are always willing to go the extra mile to make visitors feel welcome. The town is teeming with small, locally-owned, and operated businesses and shops, all of which contribute significantly to the vibrant culture and spirit of Columbus Grove.

Best Time to Visit Columbus Grove

The best time to visit Columbus Grove is during the summer months of June through August. During this period, the weather is warm, and visitors can enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities and adventures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Columbus Grove

Do:

• Visit the Ohio Automotive Museum and Locomotive Museum and Park • Take a hike at the Ottawa-Jerusalem Twp Parks and Trails • Try the Buckeye Cheesecake

Don’t:

• Disrespect the locals or ignore the small-town culture • Forget to try local food and drinks

Safety and Health

Safety in Columbus Grove

Columbus Grove is a safe town to visit. In the unlikely event of an emergency, dial 911 or head to the nearest emergency services station.

Health in Columbus Grove

Columbus Grove hosts a health clinic - Peru Health Care, which is well-equipped and staffed by well-trained professionals. Visitors looking for health advice or treatment of minor illnesses, including the COVID-19 virus, can visit the clinic.

Getting to Columbus Grove: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Columbus Grove

The nearest airport to Columbus Grove is the Toledo Express Airport, approximately 39 miles away. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or rent a car to get to Columbus Grove.

Bus Stations Near Columbus Grove

The closest bus station to Columbus Grove is in Lima, which is approximately 15 miles away. Visitors can take a taxi or rent a car to get to Columbus Grove.

Other Options

Columbus Grove is a drivable destination, which means visitors can rent a car and drive through the town at their leisure.

How to Get Around in Columbus Grove

Renting a car is the best way to get around in Columbus Grove. It provides visitors the flexibility to explore the town at their convenience.

Where to Go Next from Columbus Grove: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bellefontaine

Bellefontaine is a beautiful town that is approximately 40 miles away from Columbus Grove. It is home to several exciting attractions, including beautiful parks, a ski resort, and a shooting range.

Conclusion

Columbus Grove provides visitors with a perfect mix of Ohio’s rich cultural heritage and gorgeous natural scenery. From the enchanting Ohio Automotive Museum and The Locomotive Museum and Park to the scenic outdoor adventures, there’s much to explore in this Midwest gem. We hope our guide helps you plan an exciting trip that leaves you with unforgettable memories.

A view of the pool walls from inside the pool complex. A view of the pool walls from inside the pool complex. Downtown Columbus Grove Downtown Columbus Grove Post Office Post Office