Ohio is home to so many fantastic small towns that you could easily make the case for any of them being the most unique. That being said, there’s one destination that continuously impresses both Ohio natives and visitors alike. About 50 miles north of Dayton awaits a community that seems to have a little bit of everything. Rich in history, natural beauty, and small-town charm, we’ll show you just what to do in Wapakoneta, Ohio, a unique American town that belongs at the top of your itinerary.

Although Wapakoneta has just 10,000 residents, you'll find this small northwestern Ohio town is positively brimming with things to do.
jamieotterbein / flickr
From unique events, like the annual Moon Festival, to unique attractions, shopping, dining, and more, you'll find plenty that suits your small-town adventure wanderlust.
When you visit, be sure to take some time to engage in the history of the land.
J. Stephen Conn / flickr
The town's name is derived from the Shawnee word "Wa·po’kanite," which translates to "The Place of White Bones." This is likely due to the fact that mastodon bones have been discovered in this area! The land that makes up Wapakoneta, OH today was largely inhabited by the Miami tribe of Indians.
At the top of your list should be the Armstrong Air & Space Museum.
J. Stephen Conn / flickr
In case you didn't know, famous Astronaut Neil Armstrong was born in Wapakoneta, OH, so its fitting that a museum named in his honor would be one of the focal points in town.

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The museum is dedicated to his incredible lifetime achievements.
J. Stephen Conn / flickr
Other related places of interest in town include Eagle's Landing, his boyhood home, and Blume High School, one of numerous locations in Ohio listed on the National Register of Historic Places..
If you're ready for a bite to eat, you'll find no shortage of delicious stops as you stroll the historic downtown area.
Jimmy Emerson, DVM / flickr
Some of the most popular restaurants in the area include J. Marie's Wood-Fired Kitchen, and if you like Mexican food, El Azteca, just to name a few. The abundance of eats is one of the things that has garnered Wapakoneta honors as one of the best places to grow up in Ohio!
The next stop on your itinerary should be the Temple of Tolerance.
Stephen/Flickr
The Temple of Tolerance is a must-see attraction and work-of-art made of stone and found objects dedicated to peace in the world
After your day of engaging with history, be sure to take time to explore the beautiful parks and riverfront area on the Auglaize.
Wapakoneta Area Chamber of Commerce / Facebook
All in all, we're sure you'll find Wapakoneta to be the most Ohio town ever!

When was the last time you explored the town of Wapakoneta? What are your favorite things to do when you visit? Be sure to let us know in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!

If you’d like to explore more of the Buckeye State, here are some other charming small towns to add to your list.

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What to do in Wapakoneta, Ohio

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | October 06, 2022

What is the biggest festival in Wapakoneta, OH?

The biggest festival in Wapakoneta is the annual Moon Festival. This one-of-a-kind festival takes place every July and its focus is to commemorate when hometown hero Neil Armstrong became one of the first men ever in the world to walk on the moon. The celebration has been going on for more than 50 years, which is quite impressive in and of itself, and encompasses live entertainment, river boating, games, a massive four-day-long street party, an antique car show, and more. And oh yeah, don’t for the World's Largest MoonPie!

I’m looking for kid-friendly hikes around Ohio.

Ohio is full of great kid-friendly hikes, each providing its own unique setting and features. Among them is the Woodland Loop Trail in Concord Woods Nature Park in Painesville, the Meadow Loop Trail in Munroe Falls Metro Park in Tallmadge, and the Bridal Veil Falls Trail in the Bedford Reservation in Walton Hills.

Are there any haunted places in Ohio?

You betcha! There are actually quite a few haunted places in Ohio for those who enjoy paranormal adventures. Perhaps the most famous one, and it’s known nationwide, not just in Ohio, is the Ohio State Reformatory. Located in Mansfield, OH, the reformatory is said to be inhabited by the ghosts of former inmates who had a violent and bloody history here. You can embark upon tours that take you throughout the sizeable structure but if you get scared, don’t say we didn’t warn you!

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Wapakoneta, OH 45895, USA