Van Wert Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Van Wert, Ohio with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, activities and restaurants, as well as practical information on transportation, accommodations, and local customs.


Introduction to Van Wert

Van Wert is a charming city located in West Central Ohio. Founded in the early 19th century, the city has a rich history and is home to numerous cultural and natural attractions. With a population of around 10,000, Van Wert exudes small-town charm and hospitality. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, history buff, nature lover, or foodie, you’ll find plenty to see and do in Van Wert.

List of Places to Visit in Van Wert

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Van Wert is home to several museums and historical sites that are worth visiting, including:

  • Brumback Library: One of the oldest county libraries in the US, the Brumback Library dates back to 1899 and features impressive architecture and a vast collection of books, magazines, and archives.
  • Van Wert County Historical Museum: Located in the heart of downtown Van Wert, the museum showcases the history and culture of Van Wert County through exhibits on agriculture, industry, military, and more.
  • Wassenberg Art Center: This non-profit organization promotes the arts in the community and houses a gallery, a gift shop, and art studios. The center also hosts classes, workshops, and events throughout the year.
  • Marsh Foundation for Children and Families: Established in 1922, the Marsh Foundation provides a home, education, and therapy to youth who have experienced abuse, neglect, or trauma. The campus includes several historic buildings and a museum that offers a glimpse into the lives of children in the early 20th century.

Natural Attractions of Van Wert: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Van Wert boasts an abundance of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Some of the top attractions in this category include:

  • Van Wert County Fairgrounds: The fairgrounds host the annual Van Wert County Fair, which includes agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, rides, entertainment, and fair food. The fair is a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.
  • Smiley Park: This spacious park features a playground, picnic areas, walking trails, a miniature golf course, a swimming pool, and a lake for fishing and boating.
  • Lincoln Ridge Farms: A family-owned farm that grows pumpkins, flowers, and vegetables, Lincoln Ridge Farms offers hayrides, corn mazes, and other seasonal events.
  • Van Wert Reservoir: A popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking, the reservoir is surrounded by scenic woods and is home to different species of fish and birds.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Van Wert

Van Wert offers many opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore its beautiful scenery. Here are a few hiking and biking routes to consider:

  • Van Wert Recreation Trail: This 1.4-mile trail is a paved pathway that connects Smiley Park to Jubilee Park. It’s ideal for walking, jogging, skating, and biking. There are also several benches and rest areas along the way.
  • Blue Creek Conservation Area Trails: Located in nearby Blue Creek, these trails wind through a wooded area with a creek and wetlands. They range from easy to moderate, and allow for hiking and biking.
  • Willshire Bike Trail: Located in nearby Willshire, this trail offers flat terrain and scenic views of the countryside. It stretches for 5 miles and is open to hiking and biking.

Best Things to Do in Van Wert: Activities and Tours

Van Wert has a variety of activities and tours to offer visitors. Here are some of the best ones:

  • Historic Walking Tour: Take a guided or self-guided walking tour of downtown Van Wert and learn about its historic architecture and landmarks. The tour includes stops at the Smiley Park gazebo, the County Courthouse, and the Brumback Library.
  • Van Wert County Barn Quilt Trail: This trail features over 50 colorful quilt patterns painted on barns and buildings throughout the county. It’s a fun way to explore the countryside and appreciate the local art scene.
  • Van Wert Farmers’ Market: Held on Saturdays from May to October, the farmers’ market offers fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and live music. It’s a great place to sample local flavors and meet the farmers and artisans.
  • Theatres and Performing Arts: Van Wert is home to two historic theaters that host performances, concerts, and movies: the Niswonger Performing Arts Center and the Wassenberg Theatre. Check their schedules for upcoming shows.

Week-Long Itinerary for Van Wert

Here’s a suggested itinerary for spending a week in Van Wert:

Day Activities
1 Visit the Van Wert County Historical Museum and the Brumback Library. Grab lunch at CJ’s Side Pockets.
2 Explore the Van Wert Recreation Trail and have a picnic at Smiley Park.
3 Take a day trip to the nearby Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park and the Allen County Museum.
4 Tour the Van Wert County Barn Quilt Trail and visit the Wassenberg Art Center.
5 Go fishing or boating at the Van Wert Reservoir and have dinner at Balyeat’s Coffee Shop.
6 Attend a performance at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center and have a drink at West End Tavern.
7 Relax at Lincoln Ridge Farms and have lunch at Pleasant Valley Golf Club.

Food and Drink Scene of Van Wert

Van Wert offers an array of dining options, ranging from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Balyeat’s Coffee Shop: Known for its homemade pie, broasted chicken, and hot beef sandwiches, Balyeat’s is a local institution that has been around since 1922.
  • Scotty’s Drive-In: This classic carhop-style restaurant serves burgers, hot dogs, fries, and milkshakes, and has been in business since 1961.
  • Schlotzsky’s: A franchise that serves deli-style sandwiches, pizzas, and soups, Schlotzsky’s is a popular spot for a quick lunch or dinner.

Local Beverages

  • The Grind: This cozy coffee shop serves a variety of specialty coffee drinks, teas, smoothies, and baked goods.
  • The Green Frog: A family-owned bar and grill that has been around since 1950, The Green Frog offers an extensive beer list, cocktails, and pub fare.
  • Revival Brews: This microbrewery specializes in craft beers and has a taproom where visitors can sample their creations.

Where to Stay in Van Wert: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Van Wert has several options for accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly motels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Here are some recommended places to stay:

  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms, free breakfast, an indoor pool, and fitness center.
  • Comfort Inn: Located near the Van Wert County Fairgrounds, the Comfort Inn provides comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and a pet-friendly policy.
  • Oakwood Resort: A historic retreat that offers elegant rooms, lakeside views, and a restaurant that serves locally-sourced cuisine.

What to Buy in Van Wert: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products that you might want to bring home from Van Wert:

  • Van Wert County Fair Merchandise: The annual county fair has a wide range of merchandise, from T-shirts and hats to cooking utensils and jewelry.
  • Lincoln Ridge Farms Produce: If you visit the farm, you can purchase pumpkins, flowers, and vegetables depending on the season.
  • Schwieterman’s Pharmacy Products: This family-owned business has been around since 1915 and offers custom-made compounding, pharmacy supplies, and gift items.

Local Culture and Customs of Van Wert

Van Wert residents are known for their friendly and welcoming attitude towards visitors. Here are some local customs and etiquette tips to keep in mind:

  • Greet people politely: It’s common to say “hello” or “good morning” to strangers you encounter on the street.
  • Respect the flag: Van Wert takes pride in its patriotism, so be sure to treat the flag with respect and stand during the national anthem.
  • Be aware of your surroundings: Van Wert is a safe community, but it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and belongings.

Best Time to Visit Van Wert

Van Wert has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit depends on your interests and preferences.

  • Summer (June-August): The weather is warm and pleasant, and the county fair is held in August.
  • Fall (September-November): The foliage is beautiful, and there are many seasonal events, such as the Apple Festival and the Pumpkin Show.
  • Winter (December-February): The city is decorated for the holidays, and the Niswonger Performing Arts Center has a series of holiday concerts.
  • Spring (March-May): The weather is mild, and there are various sporting events, such as the Marathon and the Golf Classic.

Do’s and Don’ts of Van Wert

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Van Wert:

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine: Van Wert has plenty of delicious and unique food options that you won’t find elsewhere.
  • Do explore the countryside: The surrounding area is full of scenic views and outdoor activities.
  • Do attend local events: Van Wert hosts a variety of festivals, concerts, and fairs throughout the year.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter in public areas: Van Wert takes pride in its clean streets and parks, so make sure to dispose of your trash properly.
  • Don’t ignore traffic laws: Pedestrians and drivers alike should obey traffic signals and signs.
  • Don’t disrespect locals or their traditions: Be polite and respectful to locals, and try to learn about their culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Van Wert is a safe and healthy community, but it’s always important to take proper precautions.

Safety in Van Wert

  • Stay aware of your surroundings: Be cautious when walking or biking on roads or in less populated areas.
  • Secure your belongings: Lock your car and keep valuables out of sight.
  • Report any suspicious activity: If you notice any suspicious activity, report it to the local authorities.

Health in Van Wert

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
  • Bring sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun’s rays, particularly during outdoor activities.
  • Bring insect repellent: Mosquitoes and ticks can be present in wooded areas.

Getting to Van Wert: Transportation Options and Logistics

Van Wert is easily accessible by car or public transportation. Here’s how to get there:

  • By Car: Van Wert is located on US Route 30, which runs east-west through Ohio. It’s about halfway between Fort Wayne, Indiana and Lima, Ohio.
  • By Bus: Greyhound provides service to Van Wert through its station located at the Sunoco gas station on W. Ervin Rd.
  • By Air: The closest airport is Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA), which is about 36 miles away.

Airports Near Van Wert

  • Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA): Located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, FWA offers domestic flights from various airlines.

Bus Stations Near Van Wert

  • Greyhound: Located at the Sunoco gas station on W. Ervin Rd.

Other Options

  • Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Van Wert through companies such as Uber and Lyft.

How to Get Around in Van Wert

Van Wert is a small city that can be easily navigated on foot or by car. There is no public transit service within the city, but taxis and ride-sharing services are available.

Where to Go Next from Van Wert: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Van Wert is close to several nearby destinations that are worth exploring. Here are a few ideas:

  • Fort Wayne, Indiana: Located about 30 miles west of Van Wert, Fort Wayne offers a variety of attractions, including the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, and the Fort Wayne Farmers’ Market.
  • Lima, Ohio: Located about 30 miles east of Van Wert, Lima is known for its architecture, parks, and museums, such as the Allen County Museum and the Lima Symphony Orchestra.
  • Auburn, Indiana: Located about 50 miles northwest of Van Wert, Auburn is home to the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, which showcases classic cars and carriages from the early 20th century.

Conclusion

Van Wert is a charming and welcoming city that offers a mix of cultural, natural, and recreational attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nature, you’ll find something to enjoy in Van Wert. Plan your visit today and experience the best of Ohio’s heartland.

Downtown Van Wert Downtown Van Wert Fountain Park Fountain Park Brumback Library Brumback Library