The Toledo Botanical Garden is a benchmark against which similar gardens are measured throughout the country, and with good reason. This is considered to be one of the pioneering gardens because of its dramatically beautiful visual and natural presentation. Fragrant meadows of sunflowers and wildflowers, rose gardens, herb gardens and sharply manicured walkways make spending time here something special for the entire family. Also, the kids will especially love visiting the recreated pioneer garden which many consider to be one of the site's main attractions.
For those who may not know, the city of Toledo was named after a small town outside of Madrid, Spain. The Toledo Spain Plaza stands as a reminder of that link. This is a grassy area off Collingwood Avenue which actually resembles more of a median than a plaza. The plaza is located at the edge of the Historic West End neighborhood and is an excellent place for a leisurely walk or even a picnic.
There's fresh, and then there's farm fresh, and that is most definitely what you will find when you shop at the Toledo Farmer's Market. This group of vendors is well worth finding, as they are located within the same area as the Erie Street Market which is indoors, but there are various vendors who set up tents in and around the area. You will find an unmatched selection of homegrown produce and herbs as well as baked goods, handmade crafts, plants and fresh cut flowers.
Make history as a couple by revisiting some aquatic history when you both pay a visit to the SS Col. James M. Schoonmaker museum ship in Toledo. This vessel has been a vital part of Toledo's skyline as it is moored near the city's International Park. This impressive ship has been said to be the world's largest bulk freighter, and it is a mighty example of engineering function and artistic style. It has since been renamed the Willis B. Boyer Museum Ship. Its maritime heritage awaits you when you step on board and experience this symbol of a bygone era.