While it may be true that history is all around us, sometimes you have to travel a bit to get to it. That is the case with Sauder Farm and Craft Village. Located about an hour's drive outside of Toledo, this historical attraction vividly demonstrates what rural life was like in Ohio back in the 1800s. Visit a blacksmith, a potter, and a general store as well as a popular quilt shop. There are also many historic homes and picturesque gardens that you can stroll through. And, if you get hungry, enjoy a delicious meal at the nearby Barn Restaurant.
The Blair Museum of Lithophanes in Toledo is a multifaceted experience in both history and art. A lithophane is a three-dimensional translucent porcelain plaque that was first created in Europe in the 1820s. When backlit, these works feature several intricately etched images and are nothing less than stunning. The largest collection of these pieces can be found at the Blair Museum, as it is home to works that that were created as far back as the 19th century.
Enjoy the scenery while learning about some interesting pieces of history when you take a tour on Toledo's Sandpiper Boat. This is a passenger cruise vessel that offers tours of the Maumee River and is available for public and private boat rides from May through October. Everything from history to ecology and the area's significant events all come together in a memorable way when you get on board and experience one of these highly engaging and memorable tours that offer different packages that include lunch and dinner cruises as well as historical and educational field trips.
There's nothing quite like the feeling of lighting out on your own boat to fish, get close to nature, and plot your own course at your own pace. Of course, the starting point for such recreation adventures are marinas, and you will find that the Pier 75 Dry Rack Marina offers plenty of excellent amenities that you will need before and after your trip. These include pontoon boats, boat sales, a store that sells fishing licenses, tent sites and more.