Things to Do in Lima, Ohio (2024)

Introduction

Things to Do in Lima, Ohio (1)

Lima, Ohio, is a charming city located in the northwestern part of the state. Known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming community, Lima offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. The city is steeped in historical significance, with roots tracing back to the early 19th century. Geographically, Lima is situated in Allen County and serves as a hub for the surrounding rural areas. Unique traits of Lima include its historical architecture, thriving arts scene, and a strong sense of community pride.

Top Attractions in Lima, Ohio

Historical Landmarks

  • Allen County Museum: This museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of Lima and Allen County. Visitors can explore exhibits on local history, including Native American artifacts, pioneer life, and the industrial era. Opening hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 1 PM – 5 PM. Admission: Free.
  • MacDonell House: Adjacent to the Allen County Museum, this Victorian-era home provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of the late 19th century. Guided tours are available. Opening hours: By appointment. Admission: Included with museum entry.
  • Lima Locomotive Works: Once a major manufacturer of steam locomotives, this site now features historical markers and exhibits detailing its impact on the rail industry. Visitor information: Open year-round, self-guided tours available.

Cultural Attractions

Lima boasts a variety of cultural attractions that cater to art enthusiasts, theatergoers, and history buffs alike.

  • ArtSpace/Lima: This community art center features rotating exhibits of contemporary art, workshops, and classes. Opening hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 AM – 5 PM. Admission: Free.
  • Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center: Hosting a range of performances from Broadway shows to local theater productions, this venue is a cultural cornerstone of Lima. Check the website for event schedules and ticket prices.
  • Rally in the Square: An annual summer event featuring live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Held every Friday evening from June to August in downtown Lima.

Parks and Recreation

Lima offers numerous parks and recreational areas for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Faurot Park: A large urban park featuring walking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports facilities. It’s a perfect spot for a family outing or a leisurely stroll.
  • Ottawa Metro Park: This park includes a beautiful lake, hiking and biking trails, and a campground. It’s ideal for fishing, boating, and nature observation.
  • Lippincott Bird Sanctuary: A haven for bird watchers, this sanctuary offers trails and observation points to enjoy the local wildlife.

Shopping and Dining

Lima’s shopping and dining scene is diverse, offering everything from local boutiques to fine dining.

  • Downtown Lima: Explore unique shops, antique stores, and local markets. The downtown area is also home to various events and festivals throughout the year.
  • Kewpee Hamburgers: A local favorite, this iconic diner serves up classic American fare. Don’t miss their famous burgers and homemade pies.
  • The Met: For a more upscale dining experience, The Met offers a sophisticated menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and an extensive wine list.
  • Nightlife: Check out The Meeting Place on Market for live music and craft cocktails, or head to Mulligan’s Pub for a more laid-back atmosphere.

Family Activities

Lima is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.

  • Children’s Garden at the Allen County Museum: This interactive garden is designed for children to explore and learn about nature.
  • Edgewood Skate Arena: A fun spot for roller skating, offering sessions for all ages and skill levels.
  • Westgate Entertainment Center: Featuring bowling, arcade games, and laser tag, this center is perfect for a family day out.

Sports and Outdoor Activities

Sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Lima, from watching local teams to participating in outdoor adventures.

  • Lima Locos Baseball: Catch a game of this collegiate summer baseball team at Simmons Field. Season: June to August. Tickets: Affordable and family-friendly.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy kayaking or canoeing on the Ottawa River, or try rock climbing at the nearby Lima Rocks Climbing Gym.

Unique Experiences

Lima offers some unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences that are sure to make your visit memorable.

  • Lincoln Park Railway Exhibit: Explore vintage train cars and learn about Lima’s railway history at this outdoor exhibit.
  • Hidden Gem: Visit the Lima Symphony Orchestra for an evening of classical music performed by talented local musicians.

Planning Your Visit

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lima is during the late spring to early fall months (May to October) when the weather is pleasant, and many outdoor events and festivals take place. Summer is particularly vibrant with numerous community events and activities.

Accommodations

Lima offers a range of accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets.

  • Hotels: Popular choices include the Wingate by Wyndham Lima Downtown and the Courtyard by Marriott Lima.
  • Bed & Breakfasts: For a more personalized experience, consider staying at The Inn at Ohio Northern University or the nearby Country Hearth Inn & Suites.

Transportation

Getting around Lima is convenient with several transportation options available.

  • Public Transport: The Allen County Regional Transit Authority (ACRTA) provides bus services throughout the city.
  • Car Rentals: Available from major providers like Enterprise and Hertz.
  • Biking: Lima is bike-friendly with several trails and bike lanes.
  • Nearest Airports: The closest major airport is Dayton International Airport (approximately 70 miles away), with connections to Lima via shuttle services and car rentals.

Itineraries

Here are some suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your visit to Lima:

  • One Day: Start with a visit to the Allen County Museum and MacDonell House, followed by lunch at Kewpee Hamburgers. Spend the afternoon exploring Faurot Park and finish with dinner at The Met.
  • Three Days: Day 1: Follow the one-day itinerary. Day 2: Visit ArtSpace/Lima and the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, then enjoy an evening at Rally in the Square. Day 3: Spend the day at Ottawa Metro Park, with a picnic and some hiking or biking.
  • A Week: Follow the three-day itinerary, then add visits to the Lippincott Bird Sanctuary, a Lima Locos baseball game, and some unique experiences like the Lincoln Park Railway Exhibit and a performance by the Lima Symphony Orchestra.

FAQ

What are the top must-see attractions in Lima?

The Allen County Museum, Faurot Park, and ArtSpace/Lima are must-see attractions in Lima.

How can I experience the local culture of Lima?

Attend a performance at the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, visit local art galleries, and participate in community events like Rally in the Square.

Are there any budget-friendly activities in Lima?

Yes, many attractions like the Allen County Museum and Faurot Park are free to visit. Additionally, community events often have free or low-cost admission.

What are the best areas to stay in while visiting Lima?

Downtown Lima offers convenient access to many attractions, while the area near Ohio Northern University provides a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

How do I get around in Lima without a car?

The ACRTA bus service is a reliable option, and biking is also a great way to explore the city.

What are some tips for visiting Lima with kids?

Visit family-friendly attractions like the Children’s Garden at the Allen County Museum, Edgewood Skate Arena, and Westgate Entertainment Center. Check for special events and activities designed for children.

Can you recommend any hidden gems in Lima?

The Lincoln Park Railway Exhibit and performances by the Lima Symphony Orchestra are lesser-known but highly rewarding experiences.

What are the safety measures for tourists in Lima?

Lima is generally safe, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Follow local guidelines and recommendations for a safe visit.

What are the best dining experiences in Lima?

Kewpee Hamburgers for a classic diner experience, The Met for upscale dining, and The Meeting Place on Market for live music and craft cocktails.

When is the city’s peak tourist season and why?

Summer is the peak tourist season due to the pleasant weather and numerous outdoor events and festivals.

Conclusion

Lima, Ohio, is a city rich in history, culture, and community spirit. From its historical landmarks and cultural attractions to its parks and unique experiences, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, Lima offers a variety of activities and sights that will leave you with lasting memories. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all that Lima has to offer!

Things to Do in Lima, Ohio (2024)

FAQs

What is Lima, Ohio famous for? ›

Lima's oil field was, for about a decade, the largest in the US. Economic development brought money for arts and entertainment. Benjamin Faurot's Opera House opened in 1882, a nationally renowned structure so impressive that New Yorkers used it as a model for their theaters. In 1907, Lima built its first movie theater.

Was Glee filmed in Lima Ohio? ›

Although Glee is set in Lima, Ohio, the show was filmed primarily at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles and Helen Bernstein High School in Hollywood. This allowed the production team to take advantage of professional sets and equipment while still providing an authentic backdrop to the story being told.

Does Lima OH have a mall? ›

Lima Mall is an enclosed shopping mall in American Township, Ohio. It is currently anchored by JCPenney with three vacant anchors last occupied by Elder-Beerman, Macy's, and Sears.

What celebrities were born in Lima Ohio? ›

Notable people who were born or grew up in Lima include comedian Phyllis Diller, television personality Hugh Downs, Nobel Prize-winning physicist William A. Fowler, jazz saxophonist Joe Henderson, big-band singer Helen O'Connell, and cartoonist Al Frueh.

Why is Lima a tourist attraction? ›

Thanks to its rich cultural heritage, travellers are treated to a spectacular array of historic monuments and prominent examples of colonial architecture – most of which (the Monastery of San Francisco, Plaza Mayor and the Cathedral of Lima) can be conveniently found in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lima's city ...

Why is Lima so special? ›

Lima is the gastronomic capital, not only of Peru but also of South America (and, why not say it, of the whole world, soon). Anyone who arrives in Lima is enchanted by the varied, delicious, and prestigious food served at its table; with ancient recipes, dishes fused with other cultures, and a truly unique flavor.

Is the high school in Glee real? ›

Glee is set at the fictional William McKinley High School in Lima, Ohio. Murphy chose a Midwest setting as he himself grew up in Indiana, and recalled childhood visits to Ohio to the Kings Island theme park. Although set in Lima, the show is filmed at Paramount Studios and Helen Bernstein High School in Hollywood.

What mall was Glee filmed in? ›

Eagle Rock Plaza from “Glee” and Michael Buble's “Crazy Love” Photoshoot. In the “Dream On” episode of Glee, Artie visits a local mall with his girlfriend Tina Cohen-Chang (aka Jenna Ushkowitz), and while she is in line buying a hot pretzel, he daydreams about being able to get up out of his wheelchair and dance.

Where was the diner in Glee filmed? ›

Ellen's Stardust Diner is a retro 1950s theme restaurant located at 1650 Broadway on the southeast corner of 51st Street in Theater District, Manhattan, New York City. The diner is regarded as one of the best theme restaurants in New York owing to its singing waitstaff.

What is the largest abandoned mall in the United States? ›

Randall Park Mall
Wikimedia | © OpenStreetMap
LocationNorth Randall, Ohio, United States
Coordinates41.431691°N 81.531086°W
Address20801 Miles Road
Opening dateAugust 11, 1976
7 more rows

What is the best neighborhood in Lima Ohio? ›

Some of the best neighborhoods in or around Lima, Ohio are Central Lima, Riverside North and Westgate. Consider buying or renting a home in one of these popular neighborhoods. Is this area right for me? A local agent can help you zero in on the area that's perfect for you, no commitment required.

Is Lima Ohio a small town? ›

Lima is your typical small, midwestern town in Ohio. With local family-owned restaurants and popular franchises, there's plenty of places to eat and explore. The public transportation system had greatly improved in the last years.

Why is Lima, Ohio famous? ›

In 1885, oil was discovered in Lima. This helped spark the “Oil Boom of Northwest Ohio.” A year earlier, a nearby town was discovered to have what seemed an endless supply of natural gas.

What is the nickname of Lima Ohio? ›

1850s, Lima became very important and grew very quickly. The Lima Locomotive Works began in 1869 made the Shay Locomotive. This gave Lima its nickname of “Train Town”.

What are some fun facts about Lima Ohio? ›

In 1885 oil was discovered, which brought Standard Oil to Lima. Benjamin Faurot's Opera House was established in 1882 and was a nationally well known venue. It served as a model for New York theaters. Lima, Ohio, in Allen county, is 58 miles N of Springfield, Ohio (center to center) and 69 miles SW of Toledo, Ohio.

What is Lima best known for? ›

Aside from sightseeing, you can also find world-class surfing spots and paragliding excursions throughout Lima's vibrant districts. With colorful markets in almost every corner and enough ceviche (and pisco sour) to feed an army, Lima is arguably one of the best places to visit in South America.

What is Lima, Ohio known for producing? ›

Lima was one of the largest oil producers in the country in the late 1880s, produced one of the finest locomotives ever - Lima locomotive, and is the sole producer of the Abrams M1 tank.

What is Ohio famously known for? ›

Ohio is known for several things, such as the birthplace of aviation, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and U.S. presidents, …

Why is Lima Main Square famous? ›

The Plaza de Armas is the bustling main square of Lima. It is here that Francisco Pizarro founded Lima. The square is bordered by the Government Palace, Town Hall, Archbishop's Palace, Casa Riva-Aguero, and the Lima Cathedral. At its center, the Plaza de Armas contains an elegant bronze fountain from the 17th century.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Pres. Lawanda Wiegand

Last Updated:

Views: 6095

Rating: 4 / 5 (51 voted)

Reviews: 82% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Pres. Lawanda Wiegand

Birthday: 1993-01-10

Address: Suite 391 6963 Ullrich Shore, Bellefort, WI 01350-7893

Phone: +6806610432415

Job: Dynamic Manufacturing Assistant

Hobby: amateur radio, Taekwondo, Wood carving, Parkour, Skateboarding, Running, Rafting

Introduction: My name is Pres. Lawanda Wiegand, I am a inquisitive, helpful, glamorous, cheerful, open, clever, innocent person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.