Rossford Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, best things to do, local food, and culture of Rossford, Ohio.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Rossford, Ohio

Rossford is a charming city in Northwest Ohio, located in the Midwest region of the United States of America. Known for its historical attractions, outdoor recreation, and local culture, Rossford is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic experience. In this guide, we will take you on a tour of Rossford, with recommendations for places to visit, things to do, and local food and culture.

Introduction to Rossford

Rossford is a city in Wood County, Ohio, that was founded in the late 1800s as a railroad and industrial hub. Today, Rossford is home to several attractions that showcase its rich history, including museums and historic landmarks.

List of Places to Visit in Rossford

Here are the top places to visit in Rossford:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Rossford Historical Society Museum: The Rossford Historical Society Museum is dedicated to preserving the heritage of Rossford and features exhibits on the city’s history, including artifacts and memorabilia from past generations.
  • Natatorium Park: Natatorium Park is an amusement park that opened in 1905 and operated until 1963. Today, the park is a city park and recreation area that features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a boat launch.
  • Fort Meigs State Memorial: Fort Meigs is a historic site and museum that preserves the largest wooden-walled fortification in North America. Here you can learn about the history of the War of 1812 and see exhibits on the daily life of soldiers.

Natural Attractions of Rossford: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Side Cut Metropark: Side Cut Metropark is a beautiful park that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a riverfront view. It also has a large playground and beautiful gardens.
  • Maumee Bay State Park: Maumee Bay State Park is a lovely park that has a picturesque beach, a golf course, and biking trails. It’s a perfect place to enjoy outdoor activities.
  • Oak Openings Preserve Metropark: Oak Openings is a beautiful open space that offers hiking and biking trails, as well as fly-fishing and bird-watching opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rossford

Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Rossford:

  • The Wabash-Cannonball Trail is a paved, 63-mile trail that runs through Rossford and other nearby cities. This route is ideal for bike lovers and offers scenic views.
  • The Slippery Elm Trail is a 13.5-mile trail that runs along an old railway line. This trail is ideal for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding.
  • The Towpath Trail is a 101-mile-long trail that winds through the picturesque Cuyahoga Valley. This route is also great for camping and bird-watching.

Best Things to Do in Rossford: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the top things to do in Rossford:

  • Take a tour of the Rossford Glass Museum to see historical glass pieces that are unique to this part of Ohio.
  • Take a walk or bike ride along the towpath of the Miami and Erie Canals to see the bridges and other industrial features of the area.
  • Visit the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium to enjoy the exhibits of exotic animals and aquatic life.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rossford

Here’s a week-long itinerary for Rossford:

Day 1 Visit the Rossford Historical Society Museum
Day 2 Explore Oak Openings Preserve Metropark
Day 3 Check out the Slippery Elm Trail
Day 4 Go shopping for local souvenirs
Day 5 Take a tour of the Toledo Museum of Art
Day 6 Enjoy a day at the Maumee Bay State Park
Day 7 Visit the Fort Meigs State Memorial

Food and Drink Scene of Rossford

Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Rossford:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Toledo-style hot dogs: These hot dogs are served with a blend of spices and chili sauce, a Toledo specialty.
  • Walleye: Walleye is a fresh, local fish, that’s a must-try in Rossford.
  • Buckeyes: This candy is made with peanut butter and chocolate and is an Ohio favorite.

Local Beverages

  • Great Lakes Brewing Company: Great Lakes Brewing Company produces an array of popular beer styles, with one of the best-selling beers being the Dortmunder Gold Lager.
  • Maumee Bay Brewing Company: Maumee Bay Brewing Company has been providing quality beer to the Toledo region since 1995.

Where to Stay in Rossford: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rossford has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Home2 Suites by Hilton Perrysburg Rossford Toledo: This hotel offers spacious rooms and easy access to local attractions.
  • Baymont by Wyndham Perrysburg: Baymont by Wyndham Perrysburg offers clean rooms, an indoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast.
  • Rossford Knights Inn: This budget-friendly option offers clean rooms and easy access to local attractions.

What to Buy in Rossford: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products to bring home from Rossford:

  • Toledo Mud Hens merchandise: The Toledo Mud Hens are a minor league baseball team that calls Toledo home.
  • Toledo-made artisanal cheese: Toledo has many cheesemakers, and bringing home some of their delicious cheese is a great way to remember your trip.
  • Glass art: Toledo is known for its glass art, and you can buy beautiful pieces to take home or give as gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Rossford

Rossford has a rich history and local culture that visitors will enjoy learning about. Locals are proud of their heritage and are happy to share it with travelers. Be prepared to hear stories of the city’s past and to learn about its significant landmarks, people, and events.

Best Time to Visit Rossford

The best time to visit Rossford is during the summer months, when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities can be enjoyed. Fall foliage makes autumn a great time to visit, while winter is ideal for indoor activities and holiday celebrations.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rossford

Here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Rossford:

Do:

  • Be respectful of the city’s history and culture.
  • Enjoy local food and drinks.
  • Take a tour of the scenic sites on a bike ride or hike.

Don’t:

  • Litter in the parks or public areas.
  • Be rude to locals or disrespect their traditions.
  • Ignore the city’s history and landmarks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rossford

Rossford is generally a safe city, but visitors should take the usual precautions to protect themselves from crime.

Health in Rossford

Rossford has excellent medical facilities for emergency and non-emergency situations. The city has several hospitals and clinics with quality care.

Getting to Rossford: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rossford is easily accessible by car, plane, or bus. Here are some transportation options and logistics:

Airports Near Rossford

  • Toledo Express Airport: This airport is about 17 miles from Rossford and serves domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Rossford

  • Toledo Greyhound Station: This station is about 9 miles from Rossford and offers bus services to various cities in the United States.

Other Options

  • Car rental companies are available from the Toledo airport and other nearby locations.

How to Get Around in Rossford

Rossford is a walkable city, and visitors can easily explore most sites by foot. Bike rentals are also available for exploring parks and trails.

Where to Go Next from Rossford: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to visit from Rossford:

  • Toledo, Ohio: Toledo is a city that’s about 7 miles from Rossford. It’s famous for its excellent zoo, art museum, and glass industry.
  • Cedar Point Amusement Park: This popular amusement park is in Sandusky, Ohio, and is about an hour’s drive from Rossford.
  • Lake Erie Islands: The Lake Erie Islands are just a boat ride away and offer beaches, wineries, and interesting history.

Conclusion

Rossford is a fantastic destination for travelers interested in history, outdoor recreation, and local culture. With its many attractions, diverse food scene, and friendly locals, Rossford is sure to make for a memorable vacation destination.