Village in Wood County along the Maumee River
Historic Grand Rapids has something for everyone. Located along the Maumee River about 15 miles southwest of Toledo Ohio, you can walk along the old canal tow paths, you can shop or dine in the downtown area, you can boat or kayak on the Maumee river or you can fish the river known for the walleye run in the spring.
The Miami and Erie canal was located along the Maumee River and can be seen there today along with the towpath and remnants of some of the locks.
Mule pulled canal boat rides are still available for a glimpse to the past. You can also chose to walk along the former tow paths which are now home to many flowers and garden sculptures.
Another historical feature of Grand Rapids is The Isaac R Ludwig Mill, a restored working water-powered grist located across the river from Grand Rapids You can still watch grain being ground there today.
When visiting Grand Rapids, I always have to check out the local shops. The historic architecture lends a picturesque atmosphere to the downtown area. The unique shops include: antiques shops, book shops gift shops and clothing shops. There are also candy and ice cream shops. These were always my children’s favorite when they were young.
Miss Lily’s is one of Grand Rapids restaurants. We have enjoyed a meal at Miss Lily’s in the past but this time we decided to go to The Dairy Bar. We have also visited Snyder’s Pizza on another trip to Grand Rapids.
Grand Rapids historic Fire Department and Town Hall
Another thing we like to do at Grand Rapids is boating. We usually launch our boat at Mary Jane Thurst0n State Park. Mary Jane Thurston is a 105 acre park with camping picnic sites and boating. The boating area has a very nice bathroom facility. The picnic area have rustic shelter houses and there is electric sites and primitive sites for camping
The boat launches at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
The office, restrooms at the boat launch
Boats docked on the Maumee at Mary Jane Thurston State Park
Today since my husband doesn’t walk much yet after his accident we stopped at the Dairy Bar on Front street in Grand Rapids. This dairy bar sits right on the river as you enter the town from the east and offers a wide variety of sandwiches, sides and many kinds of dairy treats. Mike had a hotdog and I had a chili dog. We also had to try their milk shakes, which we decided were very good. I’m sure we will be visiting Grand Rapids again soon.
