Toledo, OH

Travel Guide

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A man and a woman examining a spherical glass object in a museum.
A lionfish swimming in water.

The Water Recreation Capital of the Midwest is also a culture-filled city with museums, sports, zoos and theaters that will entertain visitors for days.

Located on the edge of Lake Erie, Toledo is a major port city in the Great Lakes region. The port is known as a hub for coal, cargo and export industries. The buzzing industrial scene is accompanied by lively cultural attractions within the city.

Given its location wedged between Lake Erie and the Maumee River, Toledo is known as the “Water Recreation Capital of the Midwest.” Visit one of the rivers or lakes to take advantage of the area’s incredible fishing. Charter a fishing boat or go ice fishing during the winter months. Several marinas throughout the city make a perfect starting point for a day on the water. Go swimming or hiking at one of the city’s many parks.

The Toledo Museum of Art and Glass Pavilion is a world-class institution founded by the famous glassmaker, Edward Drummond Libbey, a Toledo resident. Tour exhibits of glass art and masterpieces from artists ranging from Rembrandt to Willem de Kooning. Enjoy art in the sunshine in the outdoor sculpture garden. Attend a classical concert in the Peristyle, the primary concert space for the Toledo Symphony Orchestra.

Reach the Historic Old West End just a few blocks from the museum. This neighborhood has several magnificent Victorian-era mansions surrounded by ancient trees and lush gardens. The homes are open to tours periodically throughout the year.

Get in touch with your wild side at the Toledo Zoo. With the world's first hippoquarium, the zoo also includes an aquarium, an African savanna exhibit and a children's zoo.

The city hosts the Toledo Mud Hens, a AAA baseball team affiliated with the Detroit Tigers. Join devoted Toledo fans in the ballpark known for its great atmosphere and exciting games.

Arrive via the Toledo Express Airport just west of the city. Whether you have a packed agenda of museums and ballgames or just want to enjoy a day downtown, this city will not disappoint. Toledo is a delight to visit year-round.

Where to stay in Toledo

Find the best Toledo areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Toledo
Learn more about Toledo
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Photo by throwingsofas
Open Photo by throwingsofas

Downtown Toledo

Restaurants, live music, and theaters are just a few things travelers enjoy about Downtown Toledo. Check out Fifth Third Field or Huntington Center while you're exploring the area.

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Photo by throwingsofas
Open Photo by throwingsofas

Warehouse District

Restaurants, live music, and theaters are just a few things travelers enjoy about Warehouse District. Check out Fifth Third Field or 20 North Gallery while you're exploring the area.

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Photo by throwingsofas
Open Photo by throwingsofas

Historic Old West End

You'll enjoy the restaurants and museums in Historic Old West End. You might want to make time for a stop at Toledo Museum of Art or Collingwood Arts Center.

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Southwyck

While visiting Southwyck, you might make a stop by sights like Stranahan Theater and Swan Creek Preserve Metropark.

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Vistula Historic District

While Vistula Historic District isn't home to many top sights, Imagination Station and Valentine Theater are some notable places to visit nearby.

Stay near popular Toledo attractions

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Photo by Jeff White
Open Photo by Jeff White

Toledo Zoo

8.8/10 (610 reviews)
See the exotic and native animals who live at Toledo Zoo during your trip to Toledo. You can attend a sporting event while in the area.
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Things to do

Maumee's Charming Riverside Heritage: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Maumee's Charming Riverside Heritage: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

$8
per adult
Maumee's Charming Riverside Heritage: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
See all activities in Toledo

Frequently asked questions

Is Toledo worth visiting?
Toledo is worth visiting for its prominent universities, including the University of Toledo and Bowling Green State University. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining options, from Italian cuisine to classic North American dishes. Explore distinct areas such as Downtown Toledo and Reynolds Corners, offering unique experiences for every traveler.
When is the best time to visit Toledo?
The best time to visit Toledo is from May through September, when the weather is generally mild and pleasant. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering cooler temperatures and a chance to experience the city at a different pace.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Toledo?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Toledo depend on what you want to see:

  • Downtown Toledo offers attractions like Huntington Center, Fifth Third Field, and Imagination Station.
  • Reynolds Corners provides green spaces such as Toledo Botanical Garden and Swan Creek Preserve Metropark, along with the Blair Museum of Lithophanes.
  • Historic Old West End is known for cultural spots including the Collingwood Arts Center, Arts Commission of Greater of Toledo, and Toledo Museum of Art.

What is a good itinerary length for Toledo?
A good itinerary length for Toledo is two to three days to explore Downtown Toledo, the Historic Old West End, and catch a game at Fifth Third Field. An extended stay of four to five days lets travelers visit the University of Toledo, Bowling Green State University, and enjoy an Astonishing Scavenger Hunt or a Glass City's Gangsters audio tour. See Toledo Activities.
How do you get around Toledo?
Toledo travelers will find rental cars a practical way to explore the city and its surroundings, with options available in neighborhoods like Downtown Toledo, Ottawa Hills, and Reynolds Corners. Rideshare services offer a convenient alternative for getting around. For arrival, train service is available to Toledo Station.
What are the top things to do in and around Toledo?
Toledo offers a mix of natural beauty, local history, and interactive urban experiences:

  • Explore Maumee Bay State Park, a scenic natural area near the city.
  • Take a Glass City's Gangsters audio tour to learn about local history.
  • Join a Toledo Bar Hunt scavenger hunt for a fun, interactive experience.
  • Visit Fifth Third Field, a prominent landmark in the area.
  • Discover Maumee's charming riverside heritage with a self-guided audio tour.

How do I plan a trip to Toledo?
To plan your trip to Toledo, search for places to stay in areas like Downtown Toledo or Historic Old West End. Book flights, hotels, and activities, such as a Glass City's Gangsters audio tour, in advance. Consider train travel or a rental car for getting around. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor options for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Toledo?
In Toledo you can find Lebanese cuisine, with dishes like hummus, falafel, shawarma, and tabbouleh. Travelers can also enjoy Italian, Mexican, and various Asian options such as Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Korean. Additionally, there are North American Southern Soul Food and European choices like Mediterranean and Eastern European.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Toledo?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Toledo by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Toledo with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Toledo trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Toledo?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Toledo can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Toledo trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Toledo trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Toledo trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Toledo trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Toledo?
If it's your first trip to Toledo, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Toledo hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Toledo hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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