Marion Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food scene, where to stay, transportation options, and safety tips in Marion, Ohio.


Introduction to Marion

Marion is a charming city located in West Central Ohio. This city is notable as the birthplace of Warren G. Harding, the 29th president of the United States. Marion offers visitors an abundance of attractions that range from outdoor activities to cultural and historical landmarks. In this comprehensive tour guide for Marion, we’ll highlight all the must-see places, best things to do, where to stay, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Marion

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Warren G. Harding Home and Museum: This historic landmark was the home of the 29th president of the United States, Warren G. Harding. Today visitors can tour the house and museum to learn more about Harding’s life and presidency.
  • Marion County Historical Society and Museum: The museum showcases the history of Marion, Ohio, and includes exhibits on the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area, the manufacturing boom of the 1800s, and more.
  • Wyandot Popcorn Museum: This unique museum is dedicated to the history and production of popcorn. Visitors can take a guided tour to see antique popcorn poppers, popcorn wagons, and more.

Natural Attractions of Marion: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Marion Tallgrass Trail: This 12-mile trail offers hiking and biking opportunities through scenic fields and woodlands, including a 1,000-foot boardwalk over a wetland area.
  • Sawyer Ludwig Park: This beautiful park offers numerous outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s beautiful gardens and playground area.
  • Marion State Park: Marion State Park provides a relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park offers a sandy beach and swimming area, fishing opportunities, and picnic shelters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Marion

Marion has plenty of options for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the scenic beauty of the area. The following are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Marion:

  • Marion Tallgrass Trail
  • River Greenway Trail
  • Alum Creek Greenway Trail

Best Things to Do in Marion: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Warren G. Harding Presidential Library and Museum
  • Take a bike ride on the Marion Tallgrass Trail
  • Catch a show at the Marion Palace Theatre
  • Attend the Marion County Fair

Week-Long Itinerary for Marion

Day 1: Arrive in Marion and spend the day exploring the downtown area, including the historic Palace Theatre and Warren Harding’s childhood home.

Day 2: Take a cycling tour of the scenic Tallgrass Trail and have a picnic lunch at Sawyer Ludwig Park.

Day 3: Visit the Ohio State University campus in nearby Columbus and grab lunch at one of the international food trucks on campus.

Day 4: Enjoy a day of fishing and boating at Marion State Park.

Day 5: Take a tour of the Wyandot Popcorn Museum and learn about the history of popcorn.

Day 6: Go shopping in downtown Marion and pick up some local souvenirs.

Day 7: Check out a local festival or event happening in the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Marion

Must-Try Dishes

  • Marion’s famous Marion’s Piazza pizza
  • Buckeye Candy: Peanut Butter Balls that look like Buckeye nuts in Ohio.

Local Beverages

  • Marion’s own Marion Brewing Company offers a variety of craft beer options.

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

  • Comfort Inn Marion
  • Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Marion, OH
  • Hampton Inn Marion

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

  • Popcorn from the Wyandot Popcorn Museum
  • Souvenirs from the Warren G. Harding Home and Museum gift shop.

Local Culture and Customs of Marion

Residents of Marion are proud of their city’s historical legacy, so showing respect for the city’s landmarks and museums is crucial while visiting.

Best Time to Visit Marion

The best time to visit Marion is during the spring and fall. The weather is mild, and the colors of nature are breathtaking during these seasons. The city sees a fair amount of snow and cold temperatures during the winter, so prepare accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Marion

Do:

  • Explore the historical landmarks and museums of the city.
  • Take a tour of the Tallgrass Trail to enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
  • Bring good walking shoes to explore the downtown area.

Don’t:

  • Litter in any of the parks or trails.
  • Be disrespectful towards any of the residents or city landmarks.

Safety and Health

Safety in Marion

Marion is a relatively safe city to visit. It’s always essential to take some basic precautions like locking your hotel room and avoiding unknown areas at night. If you plan to go hiking or exploring the scenic trails, make sure to carry a first aid kit and plenty of water.

Health in Marion

Marion has a few medical facilities and hospitals in the area, but it’s always best to come prepared with any necessary medication or medical supplies you may need during your trip.

Getting to Marion: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Marion

The city is easily accessible by air with the nearest airport being the Akron-Canton Regional Airport (CAK), about an hour and a half away.

Bus Stations Near Marion

Marion is serviced by several bus lines, including Greyhound, so getting around the city is easy via public transport.

Other Options

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available in Marion.

How to Get Around in Marion

The best way to get around Marion is by car. Rental cars are readily available at the airport or in the downtown area. Biking is also a popular option for those looking to explore the scenic trails and parks.

Where to Go Next from Marion: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Columbus, OH: Beautiful city with many landmarks, museums and galleries to explore.
  • Cleveland, OH: Vibrant city with many historical sites to visit.

Conclusion

Marion is a unique and charming city that offers visitors a wide range of exciting activities and landmarks to explore. From scenic hiking trails to historical museums, this city has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your visit to Marion, Ohio.

Downtown Marion, on W. Center St. looking west. Downtown Marion, on W. Center St. looking west. Warren G. Harding Memorial Warren G. Harding Memorial Marion Cemetery Marion Cemetery Palace Theatre Palace Theatre OSU at Marion OSU at Marion