Milan Travel Guide
A comprehensive travel guide for Milan, Ohio that covers places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.
- Introduction to Milan
- List of Places to Visit in Milan
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Milan
- Best Things to Do in Milan: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Milan
- Food and Drink Scene of Milan
- Where to Stay in Milan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Milan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Milan
- Best Time to Visit Milan
- Do’s and Don’ts of Milan
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Milan: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Milan
- Where to Go Next from Milan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Milan
Milan, located in Ohio Erie shore west, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a plethora of cultural and natural attractions. If you’re looking for a well-rounded experience that includes hiking, biking, sightseeing, and delicious food, you won’t be disappointed with Milan. In this travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan your perfect trip.
List of Places to Visit in Milan
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a nature enthusiast, Milan has something for everyone. Below is a comprehensive list of the top attractions in the area:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum: Experience the birthplace of one of the world’s most prolific inventors and learn about his life and work.
- Milan ‘54 Hoosiers Museum: Dedicated to the Milan High School basketball team that inspired the movie “Hoosiers,” this museum is a must-visit for sports fans.
- Milan Canal Park: Explore the history of the canal system in Milan and take a peaceful walk along the scenic river.
Natural Attractions of Milan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Huron River: This beautiful river provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. You can also enjoy a picnic on its banks.
- Edison Woods Reserve: Take a hike through this gorgeous 140-acre nature preserve and observe the diverse flora and fauna.
- Milan Wildlife Area: Home to various bird species and wildlife, this area is perfect for a peaceful walk or birdwatching.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Milan
Milan is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are plenty of hiking and biking routes in the area. The following are some of the best ones to explore:
- Edison Woods Trail: This 1.5-mile trail is perfect for a nature walk and birdwatching.
- Milan Canal Towpath Trail: This 2.5-mile trail follows the historic canal system in Milan and offers gorgeous views of the river.
- Wakeman to Elery Trail: This 10-mile trail is perfect for cyclists and connects the towns of Wakeman and Elery.
Best Things to Do in Milan: Activities and Tours
From sightseeing to tasting local delicacies, Milan is a place where you can never run out of things to do. Here are some of the top activities and tours you must experience:
- Huron River Excursions Kayak Tours: Take a leisurely kayak tour of the Huron River and enjoy its scenic beauty.
- Milan Candy Company Tour: Get a behind-the-scenes look at how this local candy company produces delicious sweets and enjoy some tasty samples.
- Ghostly Manor Thrill Center: Thrill-seekers must visit this indoor amusement park that features haunted houses, roller coasters, and more.
Week-Long Itinerary for Milan
To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a week-long itinerary for Milan. Feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences.
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit the Thomas Edison Birthplace Museum and explore downtown Milan |
| 2 | Take a hike at Edison Woods Reserve and enjoy a picnic at Milan Canal Park |
| 3 | Go on a Huron River Excursions Kayak Tour and enjoy local cuisine at a nearby restaurant |
| 4 | Visit the Milan ‘54 Hoosiers Museum and take the Wakeman to Elery Trail for a leisurely bike ride |
| 5 | Take a tour of the Milan Candy Company and visit the Huron Farmers Market |
| 6 | Explore the Milan Wildlife Area and enjoy the natural beauty of the area |
| 7 | Spend the day at the Ghostly Manor Thrill Center and enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant |
Food and Drink Scene of Milan
Milan’s food scene is heavily influenced by its farming community and German heritage. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Sauerkraut balls: A popular appetizer made with sauerkraut and sausage, deep-fried to perfection.
- Swiss steak: A hearty dish made with tenderized steak, covered in a rich tomato-based sauce.
- Chicken paprikash: A comfort food that consists of chicken stewed in a creamy paprika sauce.
Local Beverages
- Great Lakes Brewing Company beer: A Cleveland-based brewery that offers a wide range of delicious craft beers.
- Red Ribbon Soda: A local soda manufacturer that produces unique flavors like sarsaparilla and birch beer.
Where to Stay in Milan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Milan has a variety of options when it comes to accommodation. Whether you want to stay in a cozy guesthouse or a modern hotel, there’s something for you. Here are some of the top options:
- Bellevue Hotel & Suites: A luxurious hotel that combines historic charm with modern amenities.
- The Victorian Tudor Inn: A cozy, romantic bed and breakfast that offers a peaceful setting.
- Cosy Motel: A budget-friendly option that provides clean and comfortable rooms.
What to Buy in Milan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
No trip is complete without bringing home some souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy in Milan:
- Milan Candy Company sweets: Take home some delicious local sweets to share with family and friends.
- Sauerkraut balls: Bring home the recipe for sauerkraut balls and try making them on your own.
- Local crafts and art: Visit the Huron River Artisans Market and purchase locally-made crafts and art.
Local Culture and Customs of Milan
Milan’s culture is heavily influenced by its farming community and German heritage. Visitors to the area should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, which emphasize hard work, honesty, and community involvement.
Best Time to Visit Milan
The best time to visit Milan is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, fall and spring are also great times to visit if you prefer cooler temperatures and less crowds.
Do’s and Don’ts of Milan
To ensure a pleasant experience in Milan, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:
Do:
- Respect the local customs and traditions.
- Tip your servers and tour guides.
- Enjoy local cuisine and drinks.
Don’t:
- litter or vandalize public spaces.
- Carry large sums of cash with you.
- Take pictures of people without their permission.
Safety and Health
Milan is a safe and healthy place to visit, but as with any destination, visitors should be aware of potential risks.
Safety in Milan
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
- Keep valuables out of sight and secure your belongings.
- Be cautious when exploring natural areas and follow signage and guidelines.
Health in Milan
- Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated when spending time outdoors.
- Protect yourself against insect bites by using repellent and wearing protective clothing.
- Be aware of ticks when hiking and take precautions to prevent tick bites.
Getting to Milan: Transportation Options and Logistics
Milan is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here are some of the key options:
Airports Near Milan
- Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: Located about 45 minutes away, this is the closest major airport.
- Toledo Express Airport: Located about 1.5 hours away, this is another option for those flying in.
Bus Stations Near Milan
- Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Sandusky, about 20 minutes away, this station offers bus service to various cities across the country.
Other Options
- Car rental: Renting a car is a great option for those who want more flexibility and independence.
- Taxi and ridesharing services: Taxis and ridesharing services are available in the area.
How to Get Around in Milan
Milan is a relatively small town that can easily be explored on foot or bike. However, if you prefer to use public transportation, there are a few options available, such as:
- Sandusky Transit System: Provides bus service to various cities and towns in the area.
- Erie County Community Shuttle: Offers shuttle service between Milan and Sandusky.
Where to Go Next from Milan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Milan is located within driving distance of several other great destinations that are definitely worth a visit. Here are some nearby places to consider:
- Cedar Point Amusement Park: Located in Sandusky and known as the “Roller Coaster Capital of the World,” this park is a must-visit for thrill-seekers.
- Kelleys Island: Take a ferry to this beautiful island and enjoy its beaches and wineries.
- Cleveland: About an hour away, this vibrant city offers a great mix of cultural attractions, delicious food, and fun things to do.
Conclusion
Milan might be a small town, but it offers a big experience for visitors. Whether you’re interested in hiking, history, or just enjoying the local food, there’s something for everyone in Milan. We hope this travel guide has helped you plan your perfect trip to this hidden gem in Ohio.
