Things To Do
in Findlay
Findlay sits along the Blanchard River in northwestern Ohio, blending small-city charm with a growing cultural scene. The city is known for its parks, museums, and a strong community spirit that shines during events and festivals. Downtown Findlay offers a walkable core with historic architecture and plenty of local shops and eateries.
Surrounded by farmland, it is a convenient base for exploring northwest Ohio and nearby state parks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Findlay-Hancock County Public Library, where you can appreciate its beautiful architecture and cozy reading nooks. Afterward, take a stroll to the nearby Riverside Park, enjoying the serene environment and vibrant flower beds. Don’t forget to grab a coffee from a local café to fuel your morning adventures.
For lunch, head to the historic downtown area and try a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights local ingredients. Post-lunch, explore the Findlay Art League, where you can admire local artists’ works and even participate in a workshop if available. Spend the afternoon wandering through the quaint shops and boutiques that line the streets, offering unique finds and local crafts.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a popular steakhouse known for its hearty portions and local wines. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, where you can experience the vibrant local culture. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar that features local brews and a friendly atmosphere.
Begin your day at the Oakwoods Nature Preserve, where you can take a peaceful walk along the scenic trails surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife. Bring your binoculars for birdwatching, as the area is home to various species that can be spotted throughout the morning. Stop by the nature center to learn more about the local ecosystem and the flora and fauna that inhabit it.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park's picturesque spots, allowing you to relax and appreciate the natural beauty around you. After lunch, participate in a guided nature walk, where a knowledgeable guide shares insights about the preserve's habitats and wildlife. Spend some time at the nearby Blanchard River, where you can try your hand at fishing or simply enjoy the calming sounds of water flowing.
Return to the town for dinner at a casual eatery known for its delicious burgers and friendly vibe. After your meal, head to the Findlay Brewing Company for a brewery tour and tasting session, where you can sample some local craft beers. Wrap up your day by relaxing at a local park, enjoying the sunset and reflecting on your nature-filled adventure.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries for one person per week | $40-70 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| 🎟️Movie ticket | $8-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly vibe and walkable downtown
- Good parks and museums for families
- Compact size makes it easy to explore in a short visit
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some services concentrated in uptown and may require driving
- Weather can be hot in summer and snowy in winter
Places to Visit in Findlay
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic civic building with stately architecture—great for architectural photography, especially at golden hour.
Colorful flag installations and urban street scenes along Main Street; ideal for vibrant cityscape shots.
Bright, whimsical interiors and book-art displays that lend themselves to colorful, close-up shots.
Riverfront greenspace with water views—perfect for sunset and family photography.
Food in Findlay
Findlay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty, comforting dish common in Midwest diners, featuring chicken simmered with noodles in a savory broth.
Must-Try!
A thick, breaded pork cutlet served on a bun with toppings; a Midwest staple you’ll find at many local diners.
Seasonal fruit pie using fresh Ohio strawberries; a favorite at bakeries and farmers markets in summer.
A comforting beef stew with egg noodles, often offered as a family-style option at local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Downtown market offering fresh produce, baked goods, eggs, dairy, and local crafts; best experienced on Saturday mornings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello or handshake is common in social and business settings; politeness goes a long way.
Being on time is valued; if plans change, communicate clearly and politely.
Respect personal space and be courteous in residential areas; small-town norms emphasize friendliness and courtesy.
Safety
Tipping in Findlay
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip service staff 15-20% at restaurants; $1-2 per drink at bars; tip hotel staff and taxi drivers accordingly.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small vendors and farmers markets; digital wallets are increasingly common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and sometimes humid with occasional thunderstorms. Plan early-morning or evening activities and carry water and sun protection.
Mild days with rain showers. Excellent time for park visits and outdoor photography; bring a light rain layer.
Pleasant temperatures with colorful foliage. Great for walking tours and outdoor markets.
Cold with possible snow. Indoor attractions shine; dress in layers and be prepared for slick sidewalks.
Findlay at Night
Hiking in Findlay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic, easy-to-moderate trail along the river with park access and connectors to downtown.
Gentle loops through parkland with river views; great for morning or sunset hikes.
County park trails offering wooded sections and seasonal scenery within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Findlay by plane.
Small regional airport serving Hancock County; limited scheduled service but convenient for private planes and short trips.
Major regional airport with national and international flights; about an hour from Findlay by car.
Expanded airport with frequent domestic flights; about 1.5-2 hours drive depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly White (non-Hispanic), with growing African American and Hispanic communities, and a student population due to the University of Findlay.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school and college football draw local crowds in fall; strong community support.
Popular year-round through school teams and recreational leagues.
Summer leagues and local parks host games for families and fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Findlay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer salads, veggie burgers, pastas, and grain bowls. Ask for substitutions or sides of vegetables when needed.