Most people don’t realize Ohio is home to some beautiful, restored canal towns that can make you feel as if history has stood still.
Along the southern bank of the Maumee River, just southwest of Toledo, you’ll find a restored canal town that’s truly one of a kind. With a population of about 986, it’s a quaint place to live and the perfect place to visit for a day trip. Grand Rapids, Ohio beautifully preserves its history through architecture, canal rides and unique festivals. Here’s why you’ll want to visit this unique village:
Downtown, you’ll find antiques, gifts and collectibles galore inside the numerous restored canal buildings, which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Starley Shelton/Flickr
The canal is probably the most unique and beautiful feature about Grand Rapids. You can see the canal towpath from the village park.
Starley Shelton/Flickr
Providence Metropark features original canal locks, as well as the historic Isaac Ludwig Mill and Interpretive Center (pictured), which is a canal-era sawmill and grist mill.
Mike McBride/Flickr
At the park, you can even ride on a canal boat pulled by mules down the restored Miami & Erie Canal. It’s a truly special experience.
Micah Maziar/Flickr
While you’re in town, you’ll want to stop at LaRoe’s for lunch. It’s a restored restaurant and tavern that features delicious American cuisine options, from buffalo wings to angus prime rib.
Starley Shelton/Flickr
Popular recreational activities in and around Grand Rapids including boating, kayaking and canal rides.
Counselman Collection/Flickr
The village festivals are another way you can take in the spirit of the town. Every October the Applebutter Festival features pioneer demonstrations, delicious food and so much more.
Kevin Long/Flickr
The town also goes all out for the holiday season with a Christmas Open House, which features horse drawn wagon rides, ice sculptures, twinkle lights and more.
Downtown Grand Rapids Ohio/Facebook
Have you ever visited Grand Rapids before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!
Starley Shelton/Flickr
Mike McBride/Flickr
Micah Maziar/Flickr
Counselman Collection/Flickr
Kevin Long/Flickr
Downtown Grand Rapids Ohio/Facebook
For more historic towns to explore in Ohio, check out our previous article: 10 Historic Towns In Ohio That Will Transport You To The Past.
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