Things to Do in Findlay

Roll into Findlay, Ohio, on a patriotic holiday and you'll see one of the largest displays of American flags in the country. Since the 1960s, Findlay has enjoyed the official designation of "America's Flag City." The nickname resulted from the efforts of John B. Cooke, who alone raised enough money through local businesses to buy 14,000 flags—one for every house at the time. The tradition continues to this day. Whether you’re a flag enthusiast or not, you’re sure to enjoy the city’s history with plenty of things to do.

Get Festive

Warm weather brings an abundance of special events to the city. Spring kicks off with the presentation of a 300-ton, seasonal sand sculpture at the Hancock County Fairgrounds. Sip locally grown wine at the Riverside Wine Fest in June, or gaze in wonder as dozens of balloons fill the sky at the Flag City Balloonfest in August. If you’re traveling here during winter, bring the family to festivals like Oktoberfest, and enjoy Thanksgiving and the winter holidays.

Museums for All

Learn about the history of Findlay and the greater Hancock County at the Hancock Historical Museum. See antiquities dating back to the 1880s, including the bathtub from the USS Maine, a ship that mysteriously blew up in Cuba more than 100 years ago. Try out their regular events geared toward young minds such as “Night at the Museum,” a sleepover hosted on-site where kids can explore local history after dark. Both kids and adults will enjoy the Mazza Museum of Findlay University. Specializing in artwork for children's book illustrations, this museum provides a different view of the art world while promoting literacy and the joy of reading.

Along Water's Edge

Head down to the Riverside Park Waterfront for a relaxing day by the banks of the Blanchard River. You’ll find the park at the site of the town’s old waterworks, where scenic waterfalls tumble over an old dam on the river. Pick up a sandwich, wrap or pita to-go at Cedar Valley Cafe, just across from the park’s north end, and grab a spot in one of the scenic picnic areas. Fish from the bank or rent a canoe and explore the river. If you prefer to stay on dry land, take a stroll on the Riverview Trailhead and get a picturesque view of the waterfalls.

Pub Grub

Fill your belly at one of Findlay’s classic local haunts. At the West End Tavern, a small corner restaurant and bar that’s been around since the 1930s, you can experience tavern favorites like juicy third-pound burgers, deli-style sandwiches and fried treats. Try their specialty, the Westender—a gigantic fried pork tenderloin sandwich—and add an order of onion rings, fried zucchini or homemade fries. For a more modern take on pub food, check out Alexandria’s Gastropub. The burgers on their Star Wars-themed menu are named after beloved characters and made from unique ingredients such as bratwurst, chorizo and chicken (as well as the typical beef). Pair them with unique sides like mascarpone or a Midwestern take on poutine.

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