The Historic Old West End in Toledo, Ohio is home to dozens of late Victorian homes coupled with delicious food and drink options. Over 100 years later this 25-city block area is alive with activities and celebrates the craft with shops, restaurants, cocktail bars, and local brewers. Every year the Old West End Festival brings in thousands to experience live entertainment, artist markets, and sales ensuring visitors a unique flavor to its beloved community.

Shana Lee’s hometown of Toledo, Ohio is home to the Historic Old West End – a 25-city-block collection of late Victorian houses and the largest standing collection in the US. Over 100 years old, these beautiful homes have been preserved as a reminder of the rich history that lives on in this neighborhood. Each year the Old West End Festival brings thousands of people together to experience live entertainment, artist markets, and yard sales. This year marks the 49th festival and continues to be a favorite of those who call Toledo home.

The Old West End is only a few minutes away from downtown Toledo and boasts some of the best coffee shops, restaurants, craft breweries, and cocktail bars in the city. From Black Kite and Maddie & Bella to The Onyx Cafe and Rustbelt, you’ll be sure to find your favorite cup of joe. Fowl & Fodder, Souk, Focaccia, The Original Sub, and Brim House are just a few of the amazing eateries that offer delicious meals. If you’re looking for a local craft beer flight, you can head over to Heavy Beer Co, Earnest Brew Works, or Maumee Bay Brewing. And don’t forget Bellwether’s at Toledo Spirits for handcrafted cocktails!

Toledo is proud to support its local businesses and stands behind their mission to celebrate the craft.

With over 30 craft breweries and distilleries in the 419 area, the 419 Ale Trail is a great way to explore these establishments while supporting their creative endeavors. Furthermore, Toledo offers many educational activities for its residents to take part in. From the Toledo Public Library, the Toledo Museum of Art, the Toledo Zoo, and Metroparks Toledo, there are plenty of opportunities for adventure throughout the year.

Recently, Metroparks Toledo was awarded the title of #1 Park System in the country. This award is a testament to all of the hard work and dedication that goes into providing Toledo residents with amazing parks and outdoor activities. Metroparks Toledo is continuously improving the park system by transforming the riverfront with trails and greenspace to create even more ways for the community to connect.

Not to mention the world-renowned museums, craft beer, and culinary scene that Ohio has to offer, making it a great place for anyone to visit. LiveinOhio.org is a great resource for those looking to explore all that Ohio has to offer and find out more about living and working in the state.

Toledo is a city steeped in history and culture, and the Historic Old West End Festival brings these two important aspects of the city together. From viewing the collection of late Victorian homes to experiencing local craft brews at Heavy Beer Co, Earnest Brew Works, or Maumee Bay Brewing, visitors can spend hours each year appreciating the vibrant culture that Toledo has to offer. Supporting local businesses both helps maintain and refresh old cultural traditions all while creating new ones. There is something for everyone in Cleveland and thanks to those who remain dedicated to preserving its historical past it is a destination locals and tourists can experience year after year.