Maumee Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip to Maumee with this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, eat, stay, and enjoy outdoor activities in this charming Ohio city.


If you’re planning a trip to the Midwest, be sure to put the charming city of Maumee, Ohio, on your list of must-see destinations. Known for its rich history, outdoor adventures, and welcoming locals, Maumee is the perfect place to explore and relax. From hiking and biking trails to fascinating museums and delicious dining options, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Maumee.

Introduction to Maumee

Maumee is a city located in the Ohio Erie shore west region of Ohio, USA. Founded in 1817, Maumee is steeped in history and charm. The city sits on the Maumee River, which leads to Lake Erie and serves as a hub for outdoor activities such as kayaking, boating, and fishing. Maumee also boasts a vibrant downtown, bustling with unique shops, restaurants, and museums.

List of Places to Visit in Maumee

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Wolcott House Museum Complex: This museum complex features a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion and several historic outbuildings, including a barn, icehouse, and smokehouse. The museum offers tours, educational programs, and even ghost hunts throughout the year.
  • Maumee Bay State Park: Covering 1,336 acres, Maumee Bay State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It offers hiking and biking trails, two beaches, a golf course, and a nature center. Stroll through the park and admire the spectacular views of Maumee Bay.
  • Fort Meigs: This reconstructed fort played an important role in the War of 1812. Visitors can tour the fort and learn about life during the war, including demonstrations of musket and cannon firing.
  • The Maumee Valley Historical Society: This organization has been preserving local history for over 150 years and operates several museums, including the Wolcott House and the Maumee Valley Railroad Museum.

Natural Attractions of Maumee: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Side Cut Metropark: This stunning park features a 100-foot deep limestone gorge and a picturesque canal. Visitors can hike, bike, or paddle along the beautiful Maumee River.
  • The Town Center at Levis Commons: A popular outdoor shopping center that offers a variety of stores and restaurants. The center also hosts regular events, including a Farmers Market and a Summer Concert Series.
  • Fallen Timbers Battlefield and Fort Miamis National Historic Site: The site of the famous battle that took place on August 20, 1794, marks the final battle of the Northwest Indian War. Tour the battlefield and learn about the dramatic events that led up to the battle.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maumee

Maumee is a city that was made for outdoor enthusiasts. The city and its surrounding areas offer a variety of hiking and biking trails that cater to all skill levels. Here are a few of the best routes to take:

  • Wabash Cannonball Trail: Covering a total distance of 63 miles, the Wabash Cannonball Trail runs along the former Wabash Cannonball Railroad and offers beautiful views of the Maumee River and stunning natural scenery.
  • Oak Openings Preserve Metropark: A 4,000-acre park that features a variety of trails for hikers and bikers to enjoy. With over 50 miles of trails to explore, this park is perfect for both novice and experienced hikers.
  • The Towpath Trail: This trail runs along the Miami and Erie Canal and features gently rolling terrain and scenic views of the Maumee River.

Best Things to Do in Maumee: Activities and Tours

  • Kayak the Maumee River: Rent a kayak and explore the beautiful Maumee River. Experienced guides can lead you on a scenic tour and show you the best spots to spot wildlife.
  • Take a Tour of the Maumee Antique Mall: This 50,000 square foot mall features over 200 antique dealers. Find vintage clothing, unique home decor, and one-of-a-kind treasures.
  • Explore the Art Museum at the University of Toledo: This museum features a diverse collection of artwork from around the world, including ancient Greek pottery, Renaissance sculpture, and contemporary art.

Week-Long Itinerary for Maumee

Day 1: Begin your trip by exploring the Wolcott House Museum Complex and the historic downtown district.

Day 2: Take a scenic drive to Maumee Bay State Park and enjoy hiking, swimming, and golfing.

Day 3: Stop at the Maumee Valley Historical Society and learn about the rich history of Maumee and the surrounding areas.

Day 4: Visit Side Cut Metropark and explore the Maumee River by kayaking or hiking the trails.

Day 5: Enjoy a day of shopping at the Town Center at Levis Commons and sample the delicious local cuisine.

Day 6: Take a guided tour of the Art Museum at the University of Toledo and learn about the diverse collection of artwork on display.

Day 7: End your trip by touring the battlefield at Fort Meigs and learning about the role it played in the War of 1812.

Food and Drink Scene of Maumee

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tony Packo’s Café: This Maumee institution has been serving up delicious Hungarian hot dogs since 1932. Be sure to try their famous chili dog.
  • Swig Restaurant: Known for its locally sourced cuisine, Swig offers a variety of creative dishes, including their popular charcuterie board.
  • Sylvania Tam-O-Shanter: This one-of-a-kind restaurant offers an extensive menu of classic American dishes, including their famous prime rib.

Local Beverages

  • Black Cloister Brewing Company: This downtown brewery is known for its unique beer creations, including the popular Grumpy Goat IPA.
  • Maumee Bay Brewing Company: Located in the heart of downtown Toledo, this brewery offers a variety of classic and seasonal beers, including the popular Glass Hopper IPA.

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

  • The Renaissance Toledo Downtown Hotel: This luxurious hotel is located in the heart of downtown and offers stunning views of the Maumee River. It features a rooftop bar, fitness center, and modern rooms.
  • The Park Inn by Radisson: Located just a few minutes from downtown Maumee, this hotel offers spacious rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.
  • The Quality Inn Toledo: This budget-friendly option offers comfortable rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and a fitness center.

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

  • Handcrafted pottery from the Maumee Art Studio: This local studio offers a variety of unique pottery pieces, including mugs, bowls, and vases.
  • Wine from Majestic Oak Winery: This local winery uses locally sourced fruit to create high-quality wine with unique flavor profiles. Be sure to sample their popular Blueberry Wine.
  • Homemade jams and jellies from The Homestead: This local farm market and gift shop offers a variety of homemade jams and jellies made with fresh, local ingredients.

Local Culture and Customs of Maumee

Maumee is a friendly and welcoming city known for its rich history and appreciation for the outdoors. The locals take pride in their community and are happy to share their local knowledge and customs with visitors. Be sure to take the time to chat with the locals and learn about their favorite hidden gems in the area.

Best Time to Visit Maumee

The best time to visit Maumee is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. The city offers a variety of outdoor activities and events during this time, including boating on the Maumee River and outdoor concerts in the park. Fall is also a popular time to visit, with the beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maumee

Do:

  • Take a guided tour of the city to learn about its rich history.
  • Rent a kayak and explore the Maumee River.
  • Try the local Hungarian hot dogs.

Don’t:

  • Leave without trying the local craft beer scene.
  • Miss out on the stunning natural scenery of Maumee’s parks and trails.
  • Forget to pack comfortable shoes for exploring the city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Maumee

Maumee is a safe and welcoming city with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions such as keeping valuables locked in their hotel rooms and being aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Maumee

Maumee has several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and urgent care centers. Visitors are encouraged to bring their personal medications and insurance information with them, in case of an emergency.

Getting to Maumee: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Maumee

Toledo Express Airport is the closest airport to Maumee, about 15 miles away. It offers direct flights to several major cities.

Bus Stations Near Maumee

Greyhound Bus Lines offer several daily routes to Toledo, located just a few miles from Maumee.

Other Options

There are several car rental companies located in Maumee, making it easy for visitors to rent a car and explore the surrounding areas at their leisure.

How to Get Around in Maumee

Maumee is a walkable city, with many of the top attractions located within walking distance of each other. Visitors can also take advantage of the city’s public transportation system and taxi or ride-share services.

Where to Go Next from Maumee: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Toledo: Located just a few miles from Maumee, Toledo offers a variety of cultural attractions, museums, and outdoor activities.
  • Cedar Point Amusement Park: Located about an hour and a half from Maumee, Cedar Point is one of the largest amusement parks in the United States.
  • The Amish Country of Ohio: A scenic drive away, the Amish Country of Ohio offers a glimpse into a completely different way of life.

Conclusion

Maumee, Ohio, is a charming city with a rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and a welcoming community. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s museums and historical attractions or taking advantage of its many outdoor activities, Maumee has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to this Midwest gem.