Ohio’s Rising Star: This Underrated City Is Ideal for Any Traveler

Recently, I found myself talking to another Midwesterner about living in the Great Lakes region. He commented on how odd it must be to live in Ohio - we may not be one of the original 13 colonies, but as the 17th state to enter the union, we have a longer history than much of the nation. I found myself reflecting on how that early history must have influenced local culture, and how communities like Cleveland pre-date the founding of our state. Wooster, a cute community about 50 miles away from Cleveland, may not have come before the State of Ohio was founded, but it has early roots and a distinct culture. You're going to love exploring this community, and games like Go Find It will only make exploring the area even more exciting.

With some 27,000 residents today, Wooster, Ohio is a surprisingly bustling town with quite a bit of variety. Wooster was founded in 1808 after its fertile lands attracted Americans eager for new farmland, and it received its name in honor of a Revolutionary War general. As is true with much of the state, its proximity to the Ohio and Erie Canal helped fuel its early growth. Today, that early history is reflected in a fascinating mix of farmland, parkland, and urban areas, and each has its own distinctive flair.

In terms of visitor-friendly farms, Ramseyer Farms is a fan-favorite destination. In the late summer and early autumn months, visitors love stopping here for sunflowers, pumpkins, and classic fall fun on the farm. Corn mazes, hayrides, animal encounters, and a seemingly endless array of autumn attractions bring in families from all around the state.

For lovers of the great outdoors, Wooster is also home to a number of parks. With fishing, biking, and hiking opportunities galore, there's something out there for every type of nature lover. Personally, I'm a big fan of the more primitive parks, like Wooster Memorial Park. This incredible 320-acre park is located right off U.S. Route 250, and it is known locally for its scenic overviews, picturesque bridges, and waterways.

In terms of its more urban areas, visitors can expect a mix of architectural styles that's as varied as the town's history. The Wayne County Courthouse, a Romanesque Revival build from 1878, is one of my favorite landmarks in town. It's made of sandstone, a uniquely Ohio commodity, and was designed by Thomas Boyd, an architect with a flair for the dramatic whose work spans as far west as California.

Like many cities in the rustbelt, Wooster is excellent at breathing new life into old buildings. The Olde Jaol Steakhouse and Tavern, for example, is exactly what it sounds like... a historic jail that's now a restaurant! In 1865, it functioned as the Wayne County Jail, and this spot is where Ohio's last public hanging was carried out. Despite a grim history, it offers one of the most unique dining experiences in Ohio.

You can also dine in a former car dealership in Wooster. In addition to a wide, open space that's rustic and relaxed, Muddy's is known for towering burgers, Wing Wednesdays, and (my personal favorite) cheesecake. As these restaurants are both in the heart of town, it's easy to shape your trip around the restaurants where you'd like to stop.

Downtown Wooster is full of charm. It has that old-school small town center feel that you just can't beat, and it's full of unique businesses and shopping opportunities.

One of my favorite local businesses is Blackbird Records, a nifty little music and collectables store where old favorites and new releases, alike, are poised to delight. I've grabbed t-shirts and other goodies here in the past, but I never know what I'll find with each visit.

Whenever I spend time in any community, I have to check out the thrifting scene. Jodi's Closet is a cute little consignment store where you never know what you'll find, and Uptown Downtown Antiques and Consignments keeps the fun going with old-school decor items and other treasures.

Now a college town, Wooster has a surprisingly vibrant culture for a little community in the "Gateway to Amish Country." If you're looking for a town in Ohio that has a little bit of everything, you'll love getting to know all that this quirky community has to offer.

Want to expand your trip through Wayne County and the surrounding area? Create an Amish Country itinerary to indulge in delicious sweets and memorable eats.