Discover small-town life right next door to big-city excitement at Otterbein Sunset House and Otterbein Sunset Village. You’ll find a relaxing setting on these beautiful campuses surrounded by nature. There’s so much to see and explore on-site, but there’s also a wide variety of activities and things to do in nearby Toledo, Ohio.
Things to Do in Toledo, Ohio
Toledo is located on the westernmost point of Lake Erie on the northern border of Ohio, and it’s easy to navigate to at the intersection of I-75 and the Ohio Turnpike (80/90). There’s a lot to do along the Maumee River, which runs through downtown Toledo. These exciting senior-friendly destinations would be perfect to add to your day trip itinerary to the area. Let’s dive into some of the more popular attractions.
Toledo Museum of Art
The Toledo Museum of Art, founded in 1901, features over 30,000 works of art in its collection. There are more than 35 galleries to view, and visitors will appreciate free admission. Parking is free for members, but there is a charge for non-members. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and some holidays. You’ll want to explore the Toledo Museum of Art website for current exhibition information and updates on hours of operation. The Toledo Museum of Art has a number of accessibility features, including complimentary wheelchairs and walkers, as well as accessible entryways, ramps, and restrooms.
Toledo Zoo & Aquarium
For those who love animals and enjoy learning about conservation efforts, the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium is a must-see attraction! The zoo has over 16,000 animals, representing more than 680 species. You can see animals from different habitats from all over the world. Reservations are not required, and there are special perks for members, such as unlimited year-round attendance, free parking, extended hours, discounts, and more. Zoo accessibility features include telecoil induction loops at the entrances, wheelchair and motorized scooter rentals, ride accessibility, sighted guide tours, and more.
National Museum of the Great Lakes
Located along the Maumee River in downtown Toledo, the National Museum of the Great Lakes showcases the history of the Great Lakes through photography, artifacts, audiovisual displays, and hands-on interactive exhibits. The highlights include the seasonal self-guided tours through the 617-foot iron ore freighter Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship and the historic Museum Tug Ohio. Please note that although much of the museum and the parking is accessible, the Museum Ship and Museum Tug have narrow, steep staircases, making navigating the space challenging for some. There’s also a virtual tour on their website should you wish to see the museum from the comfort of your home or are unable to access parts of the museum.
Wildwood Preserve Metropark and Wildwood Manor House
One of Toledo’s most visited parks, the Wildwood Preserve Metropark, is the former estate of the Stranahan family. The Manor House, a 30,000-square-foot Depression-era home built in 1938, is the centerpiece of the park and is open for free tours. There are nearly 500 acres of grounds to explore by a system of trails near the Ottawa River. View this trail information page to find a trail that is right for you.
Toledo Botanical Garden
Not far from the Wildwood Preserve Metropark lies the Toledo Botanical Garden. Affectionately known as “a museum for plants,” this botanical garden offers more than 60 acres of gardens and plant collections to explore. The Toledo Botanical Garden also houses the region’s largest public collection of sculptures, which are located throughout the grounds. If you bring along any young guests, you’ll want to visit the Secret Forest, a special playscape that immerses children in nature.
Sandpiper Boat and Glass City Pearl
With the Maumee River, Maumee Bay, and Lake Erie, you’ll quickly find yourself surrounded by water in Toledo. Put on your sea legs and prepare to set sail on The Sandpiper, a 100-passenger cruise vessel built in 1984 that offers both public and private rides. From picnic lunch to sunset and city light cruises, there’s something for everyone ready to cruise down the river. You can even take a water taxi to one of the restaurants at The Docks for lunch or dinner. Now, that’s what you call boat-to-door service!
A new addition to the Toledo waterfront is the Glass City Pearl, a 64-ft boat with a top speed of around 17 knots. Glass City Pearl offers planned trips to Put-in-Bay, fishing trips in the spring and fall, Harbor Lighthouse, and musical dinner cruises. There are two levels with a seating capacity of approximately 120 passengers.
Amenities and Activities at Otterbein Sunset House and Otterbein Sunset Village
Residents have the freedom to choose how they fill their days at Otterbein Sunset House and Otterbein Sunset Village. With the benefit of a maintenance-free lifestyle and supportive care services available when you need them, there’s more time for fun activities or leisurely days in these serene settings. Take a look at some of the amenities and activities residents can experience on campus:
- Walking paths
- Fitness center
- Chapel
- Card tournaments, Bingo, and games
- Social events, parties, musical performances
- Exercise classes
- Bible study
- Scheduled transportation and outings
- Worship services
- Guest speakers
- Beauty/barber shop
Our SeniorLife Communities are designed for active lifestyles, so the sky’s the limit on what hobby or activity you decide to try next!
Explore independent living in our communities >>
If you love the thrill of city life, you’ll want to venture over to nearby Toledo, Ohio. Otterbein Sunset House and Otterbein Sunset Village offer a convenient on-campus shuttle for organized activities, or you’re always free to set out on an adventure of your own.
Discover Life at Otterbein Sunset House and Otterbein Sunset Village
A new adventure awaits you at Otterbein Sunset House and Otterbein Sunset Village — and in nearby Toledo, Ohio. To learn more about living in our communities, click the button below.
Learn More About Otterbein Sunset House
Learn More About Otterbein Sunset Village
This blog was originally published in 2021 and updated with new information in 2024.