10 Best Short Road Trips from Toledo, Ohio for Weekend Adventures

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10 Fun & Easy Road Trips Near Toledo, Ohio (All Outside Lucas County)

If you live in Toledo, Ohio, you don’t have to travel far to feel like you’re “getting away.” Within an hour or so, you can find quiet lighthouses, small-town diners, peaceful state parks, and even wild animal safaris. The best part? All of these road trips are outside Lucas County, in nearby Ohio and Michigan counties, so you really do feel like you’ve left town for the day. Below are 10 short road trips from Toledo that are perfect for a Saturday drive, a family outing, or a low-stress date day.

1. Marblehead Lighthouse – Ottawa County, OH

If you only do one Lake Erie road trip from Toledo, make it Marblehead Lighthouse in Ottawa County. This is one of the most photographed spots on Lake Erie, and when you stand there, you’ll see why. The white lighthouse sits on rocky shores, with waves crashing just a few feet away. It’s calm, simple, and very Ohio.
  • Drive time from Toledo: About 1 hour and 15 minutes (east)
  • Best for: Scenic views, low-key walks, photos
  • Don’t miss: Climbing the lighthouse when it’s open for tours
There’s a short path along the shore, picnic tables, and a small museum. It’s not a big, all-day attraction, but it’s a great anchor for a relaxed Lake Erie day. You can pack sandwiches, sit by the water, and just watch the boats go by. If you like simple trips where you don’t have to do much planning, this is an easy win.

2. Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island – Ottawa County, OH

Looking for more of a “vacation town” feel without flying anywhere? Head to Put-in-Bay, also in Ottawa County. You’ll first drive to Catawba Island or Port Clinton, then hop on a ferry over to South Bass Island. Once you arrive, everything slows down. People drive golf carts, kids lick ice cream cones, and you hear live music drifting out of the bars and patios.
  • Drive time from Toledo to ferry: Around 1 hour
  • Ferry ride: About 20–30 minutes
  • Best for: Summer fun, families, couples, friend groups
Things to do:
  • Rent a golf cart and cruise around the island
  • Visit Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
  • Check out local wineries, caves, and mini-golf
Think of Put-in-Bay as Ohio’s version of a tiny island getaway. It can be lively on weekends, so if you prefer quiet, visit on a weekday or early in the season.

3. Magee Marsh & Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge – Ottawa County, OH

If you enjoy nature—whether you’re a hardcore birder or just someone who likes a peaceful walk—this is one of the best day trips from Toledo you can take. Located along the Lake Erie shoreline in Ottawa County, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area and the neighboring Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge offer boardwalks, trails, and marsh views that feel a world away from city life.
  • Drive time from Toledo: 35–45 minutes
  • Best for: Birdwatching, quiet walks, photography
  • Famous for: Spring migration and warblers
You’ll find:
  • A long boardwalk through the marsh
  • Observation towers and viewing platforms
  • Guided events during peak birding season
Even if you don’t know the name of a single bird, it’s relaxing to wander through and just listen. Bring binoculars if you have them, but they’re not required to enjoy the trip.

4. Downtown Monroe & River Raisin National Battlefield – Monroe County, MI

Just up I‑75, across the state line, sits Monroe, Michigan, in Monroe County. It’s an easy half‑day escape with a mix of history, waterfront views, and small‑town charm. Start at the River Raisin National Battlefield Park, a site from the War of 1812. Then head into downtown Monroe for coffee, lunch, and a stroll along the river.
  • Drive time from Toledo: 30–40 minutes
  • Best for: History buffs, casual walkers, budget-friendly outings
Try:
  • Walking the River Raisin Heritage Trail
  • Checking out local shops and bakeries downtown
  • Grabbing a bench by the water and just people‑watching
It’s a simple trip, but sometimes that’s exactly what you need—no big crowds, no fast pace, just a different place to spend the afternoon.

5. Sterling State Park – Monroe County, MI

If you want a Lake Erie beach day without driving too far, add Sterling State Park to your list. It’s also in Monroe County, just a bit north of town. This state park offers a sandy beach, fishing spots, wetlands, and several miles of trails. On a warm day, it’s packed with families, picnics, and people splashing in the water.
  • Drive time from Toledo: About 40–45 minutes
  • Best for: Swimming, picnics, easy hikes
Bring:
  • Beach chairs and towels
  • Snacks or a full-on picnic
  • A frisbee or football for the open areas
It’s not a Caribbean resort, but for a quick beach fix near Toledo, it does the job.

6. Sauder Village – Fulton County, OH

Head west out of Toledo and you’ll soon reach Fulton County, home to one of the most unique historical attractions in northwest Ohio: Sauder Village in Archbold. Sauder Village is a living history village that brings the 1800s and early 1900s to life. Costumed interpreters show you how people used to farm, cook, and work. Think log cabins, old-fashioned crafts, and horse-drawn equipment.
  • Drive time from Toledo: 45–55 minutes
  • Best for: Families, history lovers, school-age kids
You can:
  • Watch demonstrations of blacksmithing, weaving, and baking
  • Ride the historic train (seasonal)
  • Grab comfort food at the on-site restaurant
If you grew up visiting here on school field trips, it might be fun to go back as an adult and see how different it feels now.

7. Oak Openings Region Metropark System’s Neighbors – Fulton & Henry Counties, OH

While the core of Oak Openings is in Lucas County (which we’re skipping), the Oak Openings region stretches into parts of Fulton County and even toward Henry County. Some nearby parks and natural areas on the west side offer that same sandy-soil, pine-forest feel without technically being in Lucas County. Look for smaller county parks and preserves west of Toledo that tie into this special ecosystem. Depending on when you go, you’ll see wildflowers, dragonflies, and long stretches of quiet trail.
  • Drive time from Toledo: 30–50 minutes, depending on the area
  • Best for: Hikers, trail runners, nature photographers
If you like spots that feel a bit off the radar, checking out some of these less-famous parks in Fulton and Henry Counties can be a fun way to explore.

8. Historic Downtown Perrysburg & Fort Meigs – Wood County, OH

Hop over the river into Wood County, and you’ll hit one of the most charming small downtowns near Toledo: Perrysburg. While Lucas County is right across the Maumee River, Perrysburg itself is in Wood County, and it feels like a classic Midwest town center with brick streets, cozy shops, and plenty of places to grab a drink or a meal. Right nearby, you’ll find Fort Meigs, a War of 1812 battlefield and fort that sits on a high bluff overlooking the Maumee River.
  • Drive time from Toledo: About 20–25 minutes
  • Best for: Date nights, casual shopping, light history
Ideas for your day:
  • Walk the downtown area and check out boutiques and cafes
  • Tour Fort Meigs and the visitor center
  • Stroll along the river and watch the boats
If you’re looking for a nearby spot that feels “special” but doesn’t require all-day planning, Perrysburg is hard to beat.

9. Grand Rapids & the Maumee River – Wood County, OH

Another Wood County gem is the village of Grand Rapids, Ohio, about 35–45 minutes southwest of Toledo. It sits along the Maumee River and offers a historic canal town vibe. The main street is lined with old buildings, ice cream shops, and restaurants. Across the river, you’ll see the canal locks and a small dam, giving the area a relaxed, scenic feel.
  • Drive time from Toledo: 35–45 minutes
  • Best for: River views, small-town exploring, low-key dates
You can:
  • Walk along the towpath trail by the river
  • Browse antique and gift shops
  • Grab a meal with a view of the water
If you like the idea of a simple afternoon of walking, eating, and lingering, this is a very easy and rewarding Toledo road trip idea.

10. African Safari Wildlife Park – Ottawa County, OH

If you’re traveling with kids—or you’re just a kid at heart—head to African Safari Wildlife Park near Port Clinton in Ottawa County. This is a drive-through safari where animals come right up to your car. You can feed certain animals from your window and watch them munch inches away from you. Expect a lot of laughs and maybe a bit of drool on your car door.
  • Drive time from Toledo: Around 1 hour
  • Best for: Families, animal lovers, fun group outings
What to expect:
  • Drive-through animal area with bison, deer, and more
  • Walk-through sections with smaller animals and birds
  • Seasonal events and activities
It’s a very different kind of day compared to a regular zoo visit, which makes it a great “special occasion” road trip.

Tips for Planning Your Toledo Road Trips

To make the most of these short trips from Toledo, keep a few simple tips in mind:
  • Check hours and seasons: Some places are very seasonal, especially island spots and outdoor attractions.
  • Pack a small road trip bag: Water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, a light jacket, and a phone charger go a long way.
  • Start early: Leaving by mid-morning helps you beat crowds and gives you plenty of time to explore.
  • Have a backup plan: Weather on Lake Erie can change fast—keep a second idea in your back pocket.
If you treat these little drives like mini-vacations, even a few hours away from home can feel refreshing.

Where Will You Go First?

Living in or near Toledo, Ohio, you’re in a pretty lucky spot. Within an hour or so, you can:
  • Sit under a lighthouse on Lake Erie
  • Walk through a historic fort
  • Stroll a quiet Michigan beach
  • Drive through a wildlife safari
  • Explore small towns along the Maumee River
Which one of these Toledo day trips sounds best to you right now? The calm of Marblehead? The energy of Put‑in‑Bay? The charm of Grand Rapids? I’d love to hear your plans.
  • Have you tried any of these road trips from Toledo?
  • Do you have a favorite hidden gem in Fulton, Henry, Wood, Ottawa, Monroe, or Lenawee Counties?
Share your stories, tips, and questions in the comments—and if you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend or family member who’s always saying, “We should get out of town more.” Sometimes, the best adventures are just an hour down the road.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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