Things to do in Toledo for self travelers

Embark on an immersive journey through the heart of Toledo's Old West End, this in-app audio tour guides you through the historic museum neighborhood. Architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike will relish the opportunity to discover a treasure trove of Victorian, Edwardian, and Arts and Crafts homes as they stroll amidst the storied streets that exude the grandeur of a bygone era. This self-paced adventure begins at the Toledo Museum of Art's parking lot and concludes near the same location, allowing for a full-circle exploration of the district's charm. As you traverse the scenic avenues, lined with majestic trees and adorned with opulent residences, your route will take you from ornate mansions to innovative cultural landmarks, weaving a rich narrative of Toledo's architectural innovation and legacy. Experiences along the way include marvelling at the unique features of the Center for Visual Arts, reflecting in the serene Toledo Spain Plaza, and delving into the fascinating histories behind the grand homes of Toledo’s luminaries. With your device as your guide, enjoy the freedom to pause and admire the intricate details of each site. Historical insights, visible grandiosity, and a tangible sense of the past make this tour an unforgettable exploration of Toledo's architectural gems.

Unveil the storied past of the Port of Toledo with this self-guided audio tour. Steeped in maritime tradition, this journey is a treasure trove for anyone fascinated by the synergy of nature, industry, and history. The tour's verbal visuals serve as your gateway to Toledo's riverfront legacy, catering to those who seek the romance of yesteryear's bustling docks and the silent tales of old ships and towering grain elevators. The route traces the Maumee River from the greenery of Middlegrounds Metropark to the historic heartbeat of Cherry Street. Setting out from an urban oasis, you'll wend your way downtown, absorbing the sights and sounds of a port that's been a conduit of commerce and culture for centuries. The tour comes full circle as it concludes at the park, drawing a tangible thread between the present and the past along Toledo's scenic riverfront. Memorable moments include marveling at the sky-blue span of the Anthony Wayne Bridge, uncovering the transformative power of the Owens Corning Gate, and envisioning the lively scene at the old clipper ship docks. Engage with interactive stops that paint a rich canvas of the stories that have rippled through Toledo's waters. As you complete the circuit, carry away a newfound appreciation for the city's indelible mark on the maritime map.

Explore the diverse architecture of Toledo from historic 1800s structures to modern marvels. This self-guided audio tour illuminates the transformation that the urban landscape has undergone. It's designed for history buffs, design enthusiasts, and anyone intrigued by the marriage of past and present in city skylines. Starting at Michigan and Madison, the journey includes iconic landmarks like the Main Library and the Lucas County Courthouse, finally culminating at the Libbey-Owens-Ford Building on Madison Avenue. As you navigate the route, you will learn about the influences and stories behind Toledo's architectural feats. Expect to pause at the grand Labor Temple, admire the Welton Townhouse, and reflect at the Civic Center Mall. The path leads down bustling streets and past serene city squares, painting a picture of Toledo's varied urban canvas. This exploration promises memorable moments, as you encounter the intricate facades of the Valentine Theatre, the reflective glass of One SeaGate, and the historic charm of the Four Corners area. Take a step into Toledo's storied past and see the city through the lens of its buildings, leaving with a deeper appreciation for the blend of art and functionality that shapes the downtown.

Dive into the architectural elegance of downtown Toledo with this self-guided audio tour, designed for anyone fascinated by historic buildings and urban design. Embrace an opportunity to stroll through the storied streets of Jefferson Avenue and Monroe Street, unveiling tales and details of structures from bygone eras to present-day edifices. The tour invites you on a captivating route, beginning at the junction of Jefferson Avenue and Monroe Street, guiding you to uncover the secrets of Romanesque castles, grand hotels, and economic powerhouses that have shaped Toledo's skyline. You will roam where grand theaters once delighted audiences and where clubs of old now host modern gatherings. The travel route spans several blocks, terminating where your journey into the city's architectural diary began. Highlights promise a close encounter with the illustrious Pythian Castle, the versatile Davis Building, and the elegant Commodore Perry Hotel. Experience a rich mosaic of styles, from the intricate Beaux-Arts to the sleek International Style derivatives. As you follow the narrated path, expect to gather an assortment of sensory and intellectual mementos - the texture of Harvard brick under your fingertips, the grand vision of renaissance revival in the air, and the profound narratives of cultural landmarks echoing in your ears.

Embark on an in-app audio tour that lets you discover the architectural jewels of Toledo's Old West End. This tour is perfect for history buffs and lovers of Victorian, Edwardian, and Arts and Crafts architecture. Delve into the narrated stories and rich past of the splendid homes that line the streets of this historic neighborhood. Starting off at the quaint Black Kite Coffee on Collingwood Avenue and concluding near Delaware Avenue, you will traverse the illustrious pathways, taking in the glorious sights of stunning heritage homes. Spanning from the charm of Scott High School to the grandeur of colonial mansions, your pathway is dotted with landmarks of historical significance. Along the way, the former synagogues, the First Congregational Church, and the array of converted housing will open a window into the past. Witness how the neighborhood’s residents have lovingly preserved the character of their homes and maintained the community's spirit. As you move towards the end of your self-paced journey, look back on an enlightening trail that offered glimpses into the life and architecture during the peak of Toledo’s development. The Old West End, with its mansions and storied avenues, is not just a testament to past grandeur but a living narrative waiting to be heard.

Step into the wild at Toledo Zoo, a place for unique animal encounters and experiences. Recognized throughout the world for its conservation and breeding successes, the Toledo Zoo is leading the way to a better planet. Watch elephants, hippos, tigers, bears, gorillas, crocodiles, snakes, and an amazing array of rare birds. The Toledo Zoo cares for over 10,000 animals from 720 species! “Dive” into the wonder of 3,000+ aquatic animals in 178,000 gallons of water in the state of the art Aquarium then “reach for the starfish” in the Aquarium’s interactive touch tank. Satisfy your cravings with Toledo Zoo favorites at the Beastro Beer & Wine Garden. Enjoy upscale food offerings at the Monarch Café. Then find the perfect souvenir at the North Star Trading Post or one of several other pop-up shops within the park.