Explore the African Safari Wildlife Park
Experience the wild and make unforgettable memories at Heritage Sylvania this April as visitors are invited to take a drive-thru Safari, Explore the Aviary Adventure, and get the full 1950s vibe at Sundance Kids Drive-In Movie Theatre. Witness exotic wildlife on the African Safari Wildlife Park Drive-thru, including up close and personal interactions with bison, giraffes, and more, followed by over 400+ budgies in the Walk-thru Aviary Adventure. Finally, don’t forget two great first-run movies at Sundance Kids Drive-In across from Pearson Park complete with fresh popcorn, grilled burgers, and an array of other treats.
Classic Drive-In Movie Experience
Sundance Kid Drive-In offers a classic drive-in movie experience that is sure to delight travelers. Enjoy two first-run movies on two screens from April through October and the nostalgic atmosphere of a 1950s-style drive-in theater. Satisfy your cravings with a variety of delicious snacks from the concession stand, including freshly popped popcorn, grilled burgers and hot dogs, 12″ made-to-order pizza, nachos, ice cream, cotton candy, funnel cakes, and more.
Fun for the Whole Family!
At Country Lane Tree Farm, there’s something fun to do all year round! In the springtime, families can get up close and personal with baby animals and enjoy a festive Easter egg hunt. During the summer, visitors can milk a real cow and interact with the animals on the farm. Fall brings family-friendly Halloween adventures such as haunted hay rides. Additionally, Fort Meigs has been reconstructed on the grounds so history buffs can explore the seven blockhouses, five artillery batteries, and the quartermaster’s warehouse. Historical interpreters are available to answer questions, and the Museum & Education Center and gift shop are open year-round. Come experience rural life at Country Lane Tree Farm – it’s guaranteed fun for the whole family!
An Unforgettable Experience
Schedel Arboretum and Gardens is a vibrant destination for any season, but especially in the spring. Located in Elmore, Ohio, just a 30-minute drive southeast of Toledo, the grounds offer visitors an unforgettable experience with nearly 20,000 annuals, roses, perennials, irises, and lilies, including a Japanese garden complete with Torii, waterfall, pools, lanterns, bridges, and a pagoda. Schedel has also recently unveiled the world’s largest collection of 19th-century lithophones on display in the historic 1881 manor house. Art enthusiasts can further explore the McAlear Gallery, located in the Brown Welcome Center, featuring exhibits showcasing the works of international, national, and regional artists.
Experience a unique and enriching day at Fort Meigs Metropark, located in the once-bustling canal town of Providence, Ohio. Here visitors can witness the remnants of the Miami and Erie Canal circa 1876, including the Volunteer- a reproduction of a mule-drawn canal boat, the Isaac Ludwig Mill- a working water-powered saw and gristmill, Lock 44 one of the last functioning 19th-century limestone locks, and Providence Dam, constructed across the Maumee River to maintain water levels in the canal. Guests will also have the opportunity to have an immersive experience with characters dressed in period attire and explore the Heritage Center to view The Volunteer and Lock 44 in action.
The ARCA Series has been proudly racing at Toledo Speedway since 1963. This esteemed short track is known across the country for its ½ mile semi-banked oval and ¼ mile figure eight in the middle, as well as its Friday night ARCA-sanctioned stock car races from May through September. It’s an unbeatable family-friendly experience! In addition, the public and private boat rides on The Sandpiper and the new 65-foot Glass City Pearl offer plenty of opportunities for relaxation, fun, and exploration. The Sandpiper cruises around the Maumee River in Downtown Toledo, while the Glass City Pearl takes visitors to Put-In-Bay, Harbor Lighthouse, and the remains of The Turtle Island Lighthouse. There’s even a Musical Dinner Cruise and TACO Tuesday every week!
The National Museum of the Great Lakes is proud to showcase the varied and fascinating history of the beloved Great Lakes, which make up 84% of North America’s fresh water. Visitors can explore the rich heritage of the world’s greatest natural resource, from canoes and schooners to early steamers and freighters, some of which sail the Maumee River next to the museum. Furthermore, the National Museum of the Great Lakes is honored to have two museum ships for visitors to tour—both included in full admission—the Museum Ship and the Museum Tug. Not to be forgotten is the Lathrop House, the only Underground Railroad site in northwest Ohio open to the public, which was one of many locations that provided shelter and safety to those escaping slavery after the passage of the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850.
Discover a unique slice of Ohio history at the National Museum of the Great Lakes. With over 40 homes and shops from 1803 to 1928, visitors can gain a better understanding of life during that period. Not only can they explore the historic structures and meet costumed guides, but they can also witness working craftsmen and try hands-on activities. An extra special treat is the recently added 1920s Main Street – an unparalleled experience that replicates the streets of northwest Ohio. Year-round attractions such as the Barn Restaurant, Doughbox Bakery, Retail Shops, Sauder Heritage Inn, and Founders Hall make the National Museum of the Great Lakes an unforgettable destination.
Local Produce and Handcrafted Goods
Sauder Village is home to one of the longest-running farmer’s markets in the country. June brings an abundance of in-season produce such as asparagus, peas, snap beans, rhubarb, and strawberries, as well as fresh ground coffee, baked goods, herbs, and handcrafted items from local artists. Located in the parking lot of Westgate Shopping Center on Central Avenue across from Costco, visitors can easily access the market by taking I-475 to exit #17 and proceeding south to Central Ave., where they will find the inviting market on the right-hand side.
Heritage Sylvania with its Drive-Thru Safari, Walk-Thru Safari with the Aviary Adventures, and Sundance Kid Drive-In movie theater combine to offer an incredible and unforgettable experience only found in northwestern Ohio. Travelers are invited to take in the natural beauty of the Scheldel Arboretum & Gardens, explore the diverse wildlife of Heritage Sylvanis’s African Safari Wildlife Park, and explore the rich nostalgia of a 1950s drive-in theater. Visitors will be sure to leave with memories that will last a lifetime.
