Situated Between Columbus And Cleveland Lies A Historic Ohio College City Full Of Charm

Nestled in Ohio's Amish Country, Wooster is a charming destination with a rich history and culture. Situated between Columbus and Cleveland, this historic college town is home to the College of Wooster, a liberal arts institution that gives the city its lively feel. Beyond the campus, the town is lined with independent shops, preserved architecture, and a vibrant art scene that allows you to experience Midwestern hospitality. Believe it or not, Wooster is one of the coolest college towns in America.

The city is conveniently located 60 miles southwest of Cleveland, so the drive takes about an hour. If you are driving in from Columbus, it will take about an hour and a half. If you are flying in, the closest major airport is Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE). From the airport, you can rent a car or get a taxi to Wooster. Alternatively, you can fly to Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), which is less than an hour's drive to Wooster. This city was named after David Wooster, a general in the American Revolutionary War. When the College of Wooster was established in 1866, it became a cornerstone of the city's identity. Many of the city's landmark buildings date back to the 19th century.

Founded in 1808, Wooster may not be one of the oldest cities in the world, but it is historic by American standards. It highlights the Midwest's history and allure through a well-preserved downtown and magnificent architecture. As you stroll through downtown, you're likely to pass by the Wayne County Courthouse at the corner of Market and Liberty Street, a building completed in 1879. Before that, court sessions were done in a log cabin. The current courthouse was built by Italian stonemasons and has a Second Empire architectural layout. The city is also known for its academic spirit thanks to the College of Wooster, which was established in 1866. The college highlights Wooster's thriving arts scene, education, and cultural diversity.

To experience the local culture, attend some of the events held in the city, like Woosterfest. Hosted by the Wooster Area Chamber of Commerce, the event features free entertainment, food vendors, designated outdoor spaces for socializing over drinks, and other activities. Make sure you taste some of the craft beer and local wines like the Sunny Slope Pickles Daughter during the festival. 

Wooster is an amazing destination for food lovers. There are many spots in the city where the vibe is as good as the food. A good example is the City Square Steakhouse, offering both dinner and brunch. Some items on the dinner menu include angus beef tenderloin and ciabatta French toast. Another notable eatery is the Broken Rocks Café & Bakery which offers an elevated dining experience. Some of the restaurant specials include jambalaya, mussels & fettuccine, and oriental almond chicken.

After you've had your fill of Wooster's college charm, there are many other things to enjoy nearby. Visit the Secrest Arboretum, located just three miles from downtown at the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center. This 110-acre botanical garden was established in 1909 and has over 3,500 shrubs, trees, and flowers, including rare species such as the Dawn Redwood. You can stop by the garden any day and stroll through the paved walkways or have a picnic in the designated picnic areas. Don't forget to explore the Coneflower Trial Garden and marvel at the beautiful colors from all the flowers and plants. Still have lingering doubts? Here is why you should visit a botanical garden on your next vacation.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Mohican State Park is about 30 minutes from Wooster, Ohio. This 1,100-acre park provides fun outdoor activities with 13 miles of hiking, running, and horseback riding trails. Travelers can hike the routes or go on a horseback ride along the mixed-use trails. If kayaking or canoeing is your thing, head to the Mohican River. You can float on the calm waters as you enjoy the scenery. Anglers can try their luck at the Clear Fork River, which has opportunities to catch brown trout. Just make sure you follow all the fishing guidelines and have a valid fishing license if you are above 16.