Like most of the Midwest, Toledo is family-friendly. It's difficult to find a restaurant that isn't especially accommodating to even the youngest tastes, and tourist attractions keep young bodies and minds in mind. The Toledo Museum of Art, for example, has a special section for tots. The Toledo Zoo is extremely child-oriented, with kiddy rides and a petting zoo. When traveling to Toledo, be aware that the area does experience all four seasons to the fullest. With Lake Erie to the east and Michigan to the north, the weather in Toledo is cold in winter and hot in summer. If embarking on outdoor activities, bundle the kids up in winter and bring along light layers in autumn and spring.
Bring the kids to the zoo for a day of fun with the animals. Make sure to visit the children's zoo to see guinea pigs and goats, feed the giraffes, and ride the African Animal Carousel. There is a playground near the Main Plaza for kids to play, plus a variety of family-oriented special events held at the zoo seasonally and year-round.
Toledo Zoo
2700 Broadway St
Toledo, OH 43609
419-385-5721
toledozoo.org
The Toledo Museum of Art is kid-friendly and fun for all ages. Even the youngest children will learn something at the museum's Family Center, located in the education wing near the Plough entrance, which hosts themed activities geared toward children ages 1-10. Older children may enjoy the museum's free gallery tours and ongoing hands-on projects, as well as performances and concerts.
Toledo Museum of Art
2445 Monroe Street
Toledo, OH 43620
419-255-8000
toledomuseum.org
Take advantage of free admission to the Toledo Botanical Garden, visited by more than 120,000 people each year. 60 acres of breathtaking landscape provide the perfect place for a family outing any time of the year. The garden is kid-friendly, welcoming field trips and offering special children's classes where kids can learn about plant life. As of 2010, a children's garden is under construction.
Toledo Botanical Garden
5403 Elmer Drive
Toledo, OH 43615
419-536-5566
toledogarden.org
From June through October, Sandpiper's public boat rides make for festive family fun. Kids will get a kick out of specially themed fall rides, including a "Boo Cruise" for Halloween, and summer rides designated for families with young children. Boats pick up at Jefferson Street Dock in Promenade Park in downtown Toledo. Each ride provides plenty of sightseeing opportunities for tourists and fresh perspectives for locals.
M/V Sandpiper
419-537-1212
sandpiperboat.com
For an afternoon of amusement park rides, take the kids to Enchanted Forest Playland. Engage the whole family in a game of miniature golf. Break up the day with a scenic river walk or a picnic lunch.
Enchanted Forest Playland
850 Matzinger Road
Toledo, OH 43612
419-726-4533
