The city of Lima may seem quiet and unassuming at first glance, but the streets and parks are full of new adventures you wouldn’t wish to miss.
Seated right in the heart of Allen County, this Midwestern city is a true American community and home to a diverse yet welcoming group of people.
There are beautiful parks, exciting museums, and a thriving nightlife; there’s no shortage of activities to try from sunrise to sunset.
Lima also has an illustrious past, with signs of its history dotted in several places within the city.
There’s something for everyone, so make sure you include the city on your next trip to Ohio.
Here are the best things to do in Lima (OH):
Fun Things to Do in Lima (OH)
1. Test Your Skills at Hidden Creek Golf Club
Hidden Creek Golf Club is an 18-hole golf course open to the public.
Golf enthusiasts will enjoy playing at this well-maintained and picturesque destination.
There is also a lot of equipment and facilities to guarantee a good game for every player.
With a driving range, golf equipment shops, restaurants and bars, and spacious pavilions, there is no shortage of modern conveniences for anyone who stops by to play.
The Hidden Creek Golf Club is currently owned and managed by the Young family, and they are committed to keeping the facility in top condition for everyone.
2. Visit Westgate Entertainment Center
Since 1958, Westgate has been family-owned and operated, allowing guests to enjoy themselves at affordable prices.
They have 24 artificial Brunswick lanes, six wooden lanes, and bumpers on all lanes to keep bowling balls from falling into the gutters and keep your little ones’ faces clear.
There are also ramps to help move the ball around the track.
Westgate also has their Rad Thunder Alley, where you can go bowling when the lights are off, with loud music and amazing lighting with special effects that make it look like a club
3. Go Skating at Edgewood Roller Skating Arena
Are you ready for the ultimate horse riding pleasure?
Go to Edgewood Skate Arena Inc in Lima, Ohio, where they specialize in roller skates.
This family rink has been in business for well over three decades.
All types of skaters, no matter the proficiency level, are invited; some prefer to rent a pair, as rental skates are available in every size, while others bring skates from home.
Never skated before? Do not worry!
Beginners can learn how to skate forward, backward, turn, stop and maybe even do a few spins, thanks to the availability of many experienced and qualified roller skating instructors.
Things to Do in Lima (OH) at Night
1. Hang Out With Friends at Vino Bellissimo
Lima’s vibrant nightlife begins to emerge as soon as the sun goes down.
Vino Bellissimo is one of the city’s leading destinations for loud and exciting evening entertainment.
It is also a winery serving premium alcoholic beverages such as cocktails and beer.
It’s the perfect place to meet, chat with friends, and drink the night away after a hard day of touring.
The great atmosphere, lively dance floor, delicious drinks, and friendly locals make you feel at home.
2. Don’t Miss a Timeout at Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill
For more than five decades, Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill has been a favorite gathering place for neighbors and relatives in Ohio and beyond too.
They proudly define who they are and what they do by having a friendly and dedicated nature, delicious food, a cozy environment, and a strong sense of community.
Although their beloved original Beer Barrel style pizza has been around since 1965, their entire menu is now just as well known.
Their distinctive dining rooms and bars serve home-cooked family meals, signature hors d’oeuvres, seasonal specialties, and a blend of hospitality.
It is an ideal place for a drink with friends and a great place for dinner with the family.
3. Go On a Tour of Piatt Castles
These are two magnificent Logan County houses called Mac-A-Cheek and Mac-O-Chee.
The castle is a tourist attraction and has been around for centuries.
Piatt is a historic castle, and visitors are guided around the castle by the Piatt family.
They lived out of state for 30 years and returned home in 2002 to keep the home and family history alive.
Things to Do in Lima (OH) For Couples
1. Spend Some Time at Faurot Park
This 89-acre property is a great place for those who want to enjoy the outdoors but don’t want to stray too far from modern amenities.
Faurot Park has existed since 1935 and today has grown into one of Lima’s most visited outdoor facilities by locals and visitors alike.
Relax under the shaded trees overlooking the various small ponds dotting the landscape.
You can also try hiking on both paved and unpaved trails.
There are baseball diamonds, a skate park, and a volleyball court, where you can be as active as you want those who want to try sports.
Faurot Park also serves as the site of the annual Star Spangled Spectacular, where you can celebrate the Fourth of July with colorful fireworks.
2. Go On a Tour of Lauer Historical Farm
Make a stop by Lauer Historical Farm for a break while learning about Lima’s agricultural history and practices.
The farm has been around since the 1830s and has been in continuous operation since World War II.
With its stoic silos and open agricultural spaces, the facility is a fine example of the Midwest’s thriving agrarian heritage.
You can wander around the green grounds, take pictures among landscaped gardens and sunflowers, and visit restored buildings.
It is also open for events and celebrations.
Many people choose the farm as a wedding venue because of the peaceful and picturesque surroundings.
3. Don’t Miss Dinner at the Met
The Met is a thriving Lima institution frequented by many for its innovative dishes, cozy atmosphere, and friendly staff.
The restaurant serves pulled pork burgers, shrimp tacos, Korean fries, creamy cheesecakes, and cuisines worldwide.
There really is something for everyone!
And, of course, refreshing cocktails are a great way to end a delicious and satisfying meal.
Don’t forget to add the place to your itinerary for a fantastic dining experience.
Things to Do in Lima (OH) For Kids
1. Take Them to Schoonover Park
Schoonover Park is a scenic outdoor facility offering many activities for visitors of all ages.
Right in the middle of the park is a 25-acre lake where you can catch aquatic animals swimming in the depths.
If you’re up for swimming, there’s a pool in the park – a safer option for those bringing children and those uncomfortable in deep waters.
Trees and other local flora around the park surround many scenic picnic spots.
Schoonover Park is the perfect place to sit down and have a meal with your family.
At night, you can visit the only observatory in Lima, located in the park.
Many astronomical events throughout the year are worth watching from this facility.
You can go stargazing or keep an eye out for streaky lights during meteor showers!
2. Let Them Play at Kangaroo Cave
It is a play center with many indoor activities like bouncing, jumping, birthday parties, exciting events, etc.
It is the largest indoor party center with lots of themed party rooms.
It is the largest indoor party and covers over 10,000 square feet of fun attractions, a Zoo Creation Station, two private rooms called “The Cheetah and Zebra rooms,” and much more.
It has sections where kids can create their own stuffed zoo animals. The Kangaroo Cave always has something new to get involved with.
The cave’s features include thrilling slides, a bounce house, and obstacle courses. There is never a dull moment at Zoo Reaction Station because it offers a lot of fun.
While in the cave, you can view the animals in their cages and choose friendly pets to adopt and take home.
The cave also has other games to keep you engaged with games like Air Hockey, Skye ball, and more.
3. Visit Alter Ego Comics
Alter Ego Comics is West Central Ohio’s largest pop culture destination and a haven for those who love comics, movies, TV series, and more.
Located at 230 N Main Street, the store offers toys, collectibles, posters, action figures, games, and many other products to please yourself.
At Alter Ego Comics, you will find new Marvel and DC comics, Star Wars memorabilia, and even extremely limited movie collectibles.
They have everything!
With a pleasant atmosphere and friendly staff, you’ll have a great time browsing the shelves and collections to find the latest editions of your favorite series.
Who knows, you might find that rare item you’ve been looking for all your life.
Indoor Activities to Do in Lima (OH) For Adults
1. Appreciate Art at ArtSpace/Lima
If you are an art lover, then ArtSpace/Lima is a must destination for your itinerary.
Housed in an old brick building in the northwest quadrant of the city, this facility features works by artists from the city and beyond.
You will find beautiful galleries, an extensive collection of works of art, classrooms, etc.
They also bring up engaging events such as film screenings, limited exhibitions, musical evenings, and community engagement activities where everyone is invited to participate.
Visitors will gain a new appreciation for various art forms by browsing the facility’s exciting exhibits.
Be sure to stop by while visiting the city!
2. Shop at Lima Mall
Lima Mall is an indoor retail center serving Putnam, Allen, and Auglaize counties in Lima, Ohio.
Conveniently located at the intersection of Cable and Elida Road, Lima Mall is the ideal destination for dining, shopping, entertainment, and more.
Lima Mall has more than 40 retailers, including JCPenney, Old Navy, the Children’s Place, Aeropostale, and more, which can be found, making it a one-stop shop for all kinds of fashion.
Enjoy dinner at the mall’s many restaurants, such as Golden Corral or Chopsticks Express.
For every event, Lima Mall offers precisely what you need!
3. Explore Sea Life at Toledo Zoo and Aquarium
The Toledo Zoo and Aquarium is quite an adventure-filled place worth adding to your list of things to do in Lima (OH).
The Toledo Zoo and Aquarium Association recently accredited the zoo. The Toledo Zoo and Aquarium houses 10,000 individual animals spanning 720 species.
Zoo staff bottle-feeds the two younger cubs between 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., depending on the circumstances.
Visitors can view the animals at Toledo Zoo from the indoor viewing area.
Cougars are mostly found in North America but have been seen in Ohio for over 100 years.
Romantic Things to Do in Lima (OH)
1. Visit Allen County Farm Park
Another popular family destination is Allen County Farm Park.
The tranquil barn and grounds serve as another mark of Lima’s agricultural heritage, with many activities for both children and adults to try.
At Allen County Farm Park, you can hop on hayrides and ride horseback or simply wander the green land and enjoy the beautiful scenery filled with trees.
Alternatively, you can join the biennial Apple Festival, where you can try different apple products created by local artisans.
The Allen County Farm Park Barn is the perfect location for those looking for an excellent venue for their event or special occasion.
Thanks to spacious and beautiful interiors and friendly staff, you will have a hassle-free and unforgettable experience.
2. Have Lunch at Old City Prime
A trip to Lima would be complete without a visit to the established restaurants, many of which are in the city.
One of the most famous food businesses is Old City Prime.
It prides itself as a modern American steakhouse offering many classics to satisfy any palate.
Try their USDA prime steaks, fresh oysters, gourmet appetizers, and warm bread baked in the in-house bakery.
They also provide a wide selection of premium wines and boutique cocktails to accompany the meal.
It is a great dining experience that is truly like no other!
For entertainment, their upstairs lounge features live bands, piano ballads, country music shows, and many other performances by talented local artists.
These shows are the perfect way to round off a great day touring Lima.
3. Explore Nature at Lippincott Bird Sanctuary
Bill Lippincott, a former forester for Lima, loved to talk about trees and nature with anyone who would listen.
The diversity of nature, including the park’s wildlife and plants, can thrive in this environment.
The Park District runs several activities at the sanctuary, such as bird tours, butterfly walks, the Fall Walks series and many more.
Relax and take a walk to see what the natural beauty of Northwest Ohio has to offer.
As you travel along the route, you will appreciate a wide variety of ecosystems, including grasslands, meadows, forests, and wetlands, which are home to several species of birds, animals, reptiles, and amphibians.
Free Things to Do in Lima (OH)
1. Take a Walk Around McLean Teddy Bear Park
McLean Teddy Bear Park is near the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District Office.
The well-kept facility is peaceful and beautiful and offers many places to chill and relax.
McLean Teddy Bear Park also has small ponds where you can catch freshwater fish with your children.
No fishing license is needed!
There are also many winding paths for leisurely walks among the trees and chirping birds.
The annual Maple Syrup Festival is also an exciting experience in the park, where many locals showcase the sweetest maple products this side of Ohio.
2. See the Veterans Freedom Flag Monument
The Veterans Freedom Flag Memorial consists of five towers arranged to form a star-spangled banner celebrating an important aspect of Lima’s culture – patriotism.
Each column of the arranged towers represents the five branches of the armed forces: Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Army.
Its purpose is to pay tribute, thank and celebrate America’s brave veterans of the past, present, and future.
Inside the memorial are also soils collected from various battlefields and conflict sites where our brave soldiers triumphed.
It is a truly noble monument, fitting for our heroes.
3. Catch Some Fun at Collett Street Recreation Area
This is a unique park that boasts a variety of fascinating activities.
It has around 19-20 acres of greenery. It’s a great space to play and learn a new sport.
The complex offers three soccer fields, a fenced ball diamond, and eight lighted tennis courts.
The recreation park combines education and recreation.
While in the park, visitors can bike, skate, walk and run along several kilometers of paved paths connected to different areas within.
Tourists can also access the Ottawa River Bikeway during their visit.
The park shares land with Safety City, a city that hosts a community program that provides youth with safety information.
The Collet Street Recreation Area is located on South Collet Street, connected to parks that provide something for the public.
Cheap Things to Do in Lima (OH)
1. Visit Allen County Historical Society and Museum
Allen County Historical Society and Museum are one of the places that preserve and show the region’s rich history, especially the industries that once thrived years ago.
One of the most prominent exhibits is Locomotion in Lima, which highlights the train and railroad industry that defines much of the city’s history.
Some of these train locomotives are still operational, so trains run regularly here, where children and adults alike can experience a traditional train ride for themselves.
The MacDonell House is another notable exhibit in this museum.
It is a Victorian mansion with beautifully carved furniture, stained glass windows, and other historical artifacts from years gone by.
In addition to this attraction, the facility also has many other eye-catching exhibits and collections.
It’s half a city block of historical artifacts and structures!
Even if you spend all day touring the museum, you may never run out of new things to learn.
2. Check Out Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District-Office
The Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Park District Office is home to the naturalists and rangers who operate the various parks dotted around Lima and surrounding areas.
And while it might sound like a place where a lot of boring administrative stuff happens, it really isn’t.
The park is surrounded by trees, trails, nature exhibits, and other nearby parks.
Regardless of your age, you’ll have lots of fun learning about the rescue animals, local flora and fauna, and facts about the parks under their care.
The Metropolitan Park also serves as the gateway to Lima’s other outdoor recreation facilities, so be sure to stop by and explore all the nature-related destinations the area offers.
The people there will be happy to show you around.
3. Visit the Lincoln Park Railway Exhibit
Another destination in Lima that celebrates locomotive history is the Lincoln Park Railroad Exhibit.
The facility houses real steam engines, passenger cars, cabs, and other railroad artifacts built and manufactured over a century ago.
Seeing these technical marvels up close can be intimidating, but it’s a rare experience for history buffs.
There are shaded areas in the area where visitors and families can relax or eat.
It’s a quick but informative stop for those who want to learn more about Lima’s past.
Cool Places to Visit in Lima (OH)
1. Ottawa Metro Park Campground
You can set up camp at the Ottawa Metro Park Campground.
The spacious facility has 30 places, each with many amenities for a comfortable and convenient stay.
While you’re there, you can rent a boat and go fishing on Lima Lake or swim with the family at Ottawa Metro Park Beach.
It is also completely safe for children as park rangers and lifeguards are always on duty.
2. Brukner Nature Center
Are you a nature lover? If so, add a visit to the Bruckner Nature Center to your list of things to do in Lima, Ohio.
Brunner Nature Center is surrounded by more than 165 acres of forest and is surrounded by the beautiful Stillwater State River.
It is devoted to rehabilitating wildlife, environmental education, and protecting its beautiful natural area.
This center is known for its care and warm treatment of injured or sick wildlife.
The few animals that cannot be taken back to the wild will be given a home at the Bruckner Nature Center.
The Bruckner Nature Center has many exciting features, including interactive environmental education, all-season visitor rooms, a live display of native animals, and 6 miles of hiking trails winding through an ecological environment, including rolling hills, a dense pine forest, a visitor tower, and a deep gorge.
3. Heritage Park
Lima’s Heritage Park is located on the last Shawnee Indian reservation site in Ohio.
This old landmark has hiking and biking trails and picnic areas in a wooded area full of ancient hickory and oak trees.
Over the past sixty years, Heritage Park has changed from field to forest. The intervening forest is the most extensive subsequent stage east of the West End picnic area.
Until 50 years ago, most of this area was pasture. When the soil was allowed to rest undisturbed, grasses and shrubs dominated the landscape.
Fast-growing trees were introduced over time and began to grow taller than grasses and shrubs.
As a forested area matures, large trees such as oaks, ash, hickory, and walnut grow, and smaller shrubs and smaller trees such as elms die.
The West End Picnic Area is an example of a mature environment.
Enjoy a walk through the mature forest or a picnic under the hickory and oak trees.
Conclusion
Don’t miss the chance to experience all these and more on our checklist of things to do in Lima (OH). It will be the best vacation you’ve ever had!
Start planning your vacation today, and you will be glad you did.
Happy travels.