With hundreds of attractions spread throughout the region, you'll be sure to find many treasures for you and your family to enjoy. Just click on the links below for a taste of the wonderful attractions for you to visit.

With beauty going straight to the heart, Ohio’s Historic West is blessed with gorgeous rolling hills, fertile farmland, lovely nature preserves, mysterious caverns and scenic lakes. Is it any wonder it is called the “Heartland?” Here your groups will find manufacturers of; sporting goods, the best kitchen appliances, heavenly chocolates, home-made ice cream, gourmet foods and classic travel trailers — just take your pick! Our American Made-Nature Made tour is the perfect combination of factory tours, specialty shopping and Mother Nature!

We’ll begin our tour of Ohio’s Historic West by visiting the Lockington Locks of Shelby County. Do you know the function of a lock? Why were locks necessary to enable canal boats to travel between the Ohio River and Lake Erie? How did they function? How were they constructed? You’ll learn the answers to these questions as your group visits the remains of the Lockington Locks in the village of Lockington. At the height of the activity on the canal, scores of boats a day moved through the system of locks. This slow process (it took as long as five or six hours to traverse the locks) caused a backup of boat traffic, which in turn allowed travelers to go ashore for a period of time. A collection of log houses and huts sprang up, first occupied by laborers working on the canal, and later by the owners of stores and other businesses. Chief among the enterprises were at least six saloons! Construction of the railroads helped bring about the decline and eventual demise of the canal system in Ohio. We are lucky to have the historic remains of the canal system to remind us of what life was like in the 1800’s for our fore-mothers & fathers!

For more information, contact the Sidney Visitor's Bureau at 866-892-9122 (Shelby County) or visit www.VisitSidneyShelby.com.

Also in Shelby County, we’ll visit our first factory tour to see our first “American Made” product! For over 50 years, Jackson Center has been the home of The Airstream Trailer Co., the manufacturer of the legendary Airstream trailer. Founder Wally Byam incorporated aircraft construction methods in order to lessen wind resistance and improve the strength-to-weight ratio of his trailers. In 1934, Mr. Byam introduced the name "Airstream" because his improved trailers cruised down the road "like a stream of air." On January 17, 1936 Airstream introduced the "Clipper," and an American legend was born! At the Airstream facility, we’ll receive a guided tour to learn how they craft this American Classic.

Tours are conducted daily at 2:00 p.m. and offer visitors a comprehensive overview of Airstream’s manufacturing process. For more information, contact the Sidney Visitor's Bureau at 866-892-9122 (Shelby County) or visit www.VisitSidneyShelby.com.

We’ll travel northwest from Shelby County into Auglaize County to the Bicycle Museum of America in the quaint town of New Bremen. How many people remember the bananna seat? How about a tandem? This new museum dedicated to the history of cycling opened in 1997. Featuring over 250 vintage bicycles from 1816 to the present, the collection includes over 150 Schwinn Bicycles from the former Chicago Museum. The museum was recently chosen by Arts and Antiques magazine in their special issue of “100 Top Treasures” to see in the U.S. & Canada.

Location: 7 West Monroe St., New Bremen. Summer hours: Monday - Friday 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m and Saturday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Reservations required. Fee: Donations requested. Winter Hours: Monday – Friday 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Saturday noon – 2:00 p.m. For more information, contact the Auglaize/Mercer CVB at 800-860-4726.

We’ll leave the charming town of New Bremen and journey north—still in Auglaize County, to visit the historic town of St. Marys on Lake St. Marys. St. Marys has always been a site of trading and transportation significance. In the 1600’s and 1700’s both French and Indians frequented the area. The Shawnee Indians established villages here known as Kettle Town and later Girty’s Town. General Anthony Wayne constructed a fort here in 1795 (it no longer stands) and in the War of 1812 General William Henry Harrison erected Fort Barbee near the site of Wayne’s fort and established his headquarters there. As you can see, St. Marys has a rich historical heritage which it would love to share with your group! St. Marys is also an historic canal town, and the Miami-Erie Canal still runs through downtown. The Belle of St. Marys, a replica canal boat is in the process of being re-built. You may see the work in progress in Memorial Park.

For more information, contact the Auglaize/Mercer CVB at 800-860-4726.

Jump back on the bus and travel west, along the north side of Grand Lake St. Marys into Mercer County. The lake is approximately 9 miles long and 3 miles wide. This gorgeous body of water is both “American Made” and “Nature Made”! Grand Lake St. Marys was originally constructed as a feeder reservoir for the Miami-Erie Canal and was recognized as the largest man-made reservoir in the world for many years. Of course, there’s plenty of fishing, boating and picnicking all around Grand Lake St. Marys during the warm months, and ice-fishing in the winter! How about a sightseeing cruise to see the lake up close and personal? Jump aboard the Lost Weekend Cruises to discover the beauty of this Grand Lake in an enjoyable, relaxed atmosphere!

For more information, contact the Auglaize/Mercer CVB at 800-860-4726.

From Celina, we’ll hop on St. Rt. 127 southbound and explore another “American Made” structure in Mercer County -- The Fort Recovery State Museum in Ft. Recovery. In late 1791, Miami Indians defeated General Arthur St. Clair's forces at this site along the Wabash River. Nearly three-quarters of St. Clair's men were killed or wounded in the Indian attack. In late 1793, General Anthony Wayne sent a force to build a four-blockhouse post named Recovery at the site of St. Clair's defeat. It was completed in March of 1794 and on June 30 of that year General Wayne's army defeated a huge Indian force. This set the stage for Wayne's final triumph at Fallen Timbers in August of 1794.

Two reconstructed blockhouses, a connecting stockade and many exhibits depicting the Indian wars of the 1790's are housed in the museum. The museum also includes mannequins dressed in the uniforms of the 18th Century American soldiers, period weapons and one of the largest collections of Indian artifacts in the state of Ohio.

For more information, contact the Auglaize/Mercer CVB at 800-860-4726.

From Ft. Recovery, travel south on St. Rt. 127 into Darke County. In Greenville, we’ll explore an “American Made” product that is world famous! We’ll take a guided tour through the KitchenAid Factory to discover how the number one American Made stand mixer is made. During this one-hour walking tour, guests will be escorted through the KitchenAid historical display area, to the machine shop, powder paint operation, sub-assembly, building, shipping, customer service center and life-test lab.

Closed-toe shoes are required and safety glasses will be issued. Advance notice of at least ten-days is required due to production demands. Restroom facilities are plentiful, the air is smoke-free and motorcoach parking is available. Cost is $5 per person. For more information, contact The Darke County VB at 800-504-2995.

Once we’ve discovered how the number one stand mixer in the World is made, next we’ll visit the KitchenAid Experience in Historic Downtown Greenville to push buttons on every KitchenAid portable appliance to slice, dice and whip up our own culinary creations! Don’t forget to sample your tasty creation! We’ll also browse through antique KitchenAid memorabilia and shop for first quality KitchenAid products and accessories, as well as gourmet foods and other well-crafted items for the kitchen. On the lower level, discover refurbished products at factory direct prices. If hands-on demonstrations and make-it / take-it projects are more your style, be sure to schedule time into your visit to the KitchenAid Experience to make apple dumplings!

Restrooms and seating are plentiful. Motorcoach parking is available. $5 per person for hands-on cooking demonstrations. Contract and deposit are required. For more information, contact: The Darke County VB at 800-504-2995.

From the shops in Switzerland to the upscale stores in New York and San Francisco, one would expect to find

a  high-end artisan chocolate to tempt their taste buds, but in a small, farming community in the heart of the Midwest? Born in Quebec, Canada, Ghyslain Maurais spent three years studying to become an architect  when he realized he had a passion - and it wasn't for building homes and high-rises. Ghyslain went on to  receive a diploma from the Institute d'Hotelerie et Tourisme of Quebec in Montreal for the culinary arts and  administration, worked in the finest of 5 star hotels and won numerous international awards. Ghyslain's commitment to his family and vision for the potential that exists in the high-end chocolate market helped him create a unique product that rivals that of the best chocolatiers in the world with Ghyslain Chocoliater in Union City, Indiana. As far as he knows, there is no one else in the country using paint brushes and vibrant colors to make each creation a masterpiece in appearance and taste. Not in New York, not in San Francisco - only in the heart of the Midwest can you find such a beautiful chocolate with such a wonderful taste. One Hour Experience at Ghyslain Chocolatier includes: • Welcome by Ghyslain • Tour facility (15 minutes) • Watch video (15 minutes) • Chocolate tasting (2 pieces / person) • Shop retail facility *Groups over 25 will be split two. Cost: $3 per person.

Contact: Darke County Visitors Bureau at 1-800-504-2995 www.VisitDarkeCounty.org e-mail: dyork@VisitDarkeCounty.org   Directions: From Greenville, travel St. Rt. 571 West to Union City, Ohio / Indiana. Make a right onto Deerfield Road. Travel approximately 1.3 miles to 350 W. Deerfield Road. Ghyslain Chocolatier is located on the left side of the road next to Pizza Hut. (Union City is a split community with the village of Union City in Ohio and the city of Union City in Indiana.) Handicap and motorcoach accessible.

From Darke County, we’ll travel east to Miami County to see a “Nature Made” destination. At Brukner Nature Center we’ll learn about Ohio’s wildlife at this 164-acre nature preserve which includes: a wildlife rehabilitation center; 6 miles of hiking trails; a nature store; an air-conditioned bird-watching vista; and a log home built by the first settlers into Miami County in 1804. The Center’s animal rehabilitation area has over 65 permanent animals on display, including a bald eagle.

Brukner’s Nature Experts can tailor a 90-minute program to suit your group’s particular interests, providing learning experiences for youthful people of all age groups. Activities include; nature hikes, wildlife lectures, bird watching and exploring an 1804 log home—even making your own butter! The new Heidelberg Auditorium in the Nature Center is the perfect place to have your group’s lunch catered (it’s air-conditioned and bug-free!). Or, if you prefer, you can eat outdoors on the picnic tables. Night-hikes are also a favorite!

Location: 8995 Horseshoe Bend Road, off of Rt. 55, east of Troy. Admission: $2 per person. Reservations required. Handicapped accessible in the Nature Center, but trails would be difficult. Restrooms & parking facilities are plenty. For further information, contact the Miami County VCB at 800-348-8993.

Our next stop in our appreciation of American Made products is the WACO Aircraft Museum and Learning Center. A tribute to the WACO Aircraft Company's place in American aviation, the museum features the company's unique heritage and contributions to the industry. Exhibits depict the Troy company's commercial and military aircraft production from the 1920s through WWII. In the 1920’s WACO was the largest producer of aircraft in the country. The WACO Aircraft Company was co-founded by Clayton J. Brukner, who also founded Brukner Nature Center in Troy.
After you have been guided through the WACO Museum by a WACO Historical Society Member, we’ll hop back into our bus for a short drive to the WACO Airfield. Here you’ll get a tour of the hanger by a pilot who has flown these fabulous WACO aircraft! Following your hanger tour, an option is to enjoy a catered dinner inside the hanger. Contact the Miami County VCB at 800-348-8993 or visit www.VisitMiamiCounty.org

From Miami County, we’ll travel southeast into Clark County to visit another “Nature Made” destination…the Maple Lane Bison Ranch. No, we’re not in Wyoming or Montana, this is still Ohio! Ranch owners Milt and Paula Palmer began their herd of bison in 1999 when Paula needed a high protein diet. Since that time, their herd has grown to over 70 bison, with 28 calves born in the Spring of 2002. The herd bull "Charlie" is 1/2 American, 1/2 Woods Bison. Charlie was 1700 pounds as a two year old!

At the Maple Lane Ranch, we'll learn about the bison as a native of these lands, and the all-natural way that Milt and Paula raise their bison. We'll be escorted into the fields with the bison and see them close-up. Take home a taste of buffalo or a reminder of your visit from their gift shop and meat market. Truly, an experience we won't forget soon!

Location: 5150 Spence Road, Springfield. Fee: $2.00 per person. Advanced reservations/notice requested. Please contact the Clark County/Springfield Area CVB for more information: 800-803-1553.

Our next stop in Clark County is another example of Ohio’s “Nature Made” bounty, and the pioneering spirit that has made Ohio’s Historic West proud! Young’s Jersey Dairy is a favorite attraction for families from all over Ohio!

This ever-expanding family business began in 1869 when relatives of the Young Family built the red barn. Hap Young bought the 60 acre farm and house shortly after the end of World War II. Today, Young’s Jersey Dairy is an attraction in itself! They have a petting zoo, Cowvin's Corny Maze, batting cages, two putt-putt courses, a driving range, wagon rides, tours of the farm, plus many seasonal events, including Quilt shows. Enjoy homemade ice cream and "Ohio's best milkshake" at either of their two restaurants! Many groups enjoy a down-home countrified meal in their gorgeous timber-framed barn/restaurant! There’s so much to do at Young's Jersey Dairy—it’s a mini-Disneyland on the farm!

Location: 6880 Springfield-Xenia Road, Springfield. Hours: Open year-round. Monday-Thursday and Sunday 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Free admission. Advanced reservations/notice requested. Please contact the Clark County/Springfield Area CVB for more information: 800-803-1553.

From Young’s, we’ll drive north on Rt. 68 from Clark County into Champaign County. As we reach Urbana, let’s take a right turn onto Rt. 36. Urbana is famous for the beautiful architecture of its historic buildings. Keep your eyes opened as you drive along Rt. 36! There are many gorgeous homes that you won’t want to miss! Our first stop in Champaign County will be at The Robert Rothschild Berry Farm, a gorgeous combination of both “Nature” and “American Made” elements! Robert Rothschild’s Raspberry Honey Mustard has been repeatedly voted by industry specialists as the best mustard in the world! At The Robert Rothschild Farm, beautiful farmland, formal gardens, and a modern production facility await our group in the rolling hills just outside of Urbana.

There are many activities to choose from at Rothschild’s Berry Farm! Tour their modern production facility that produces some of the world’s most famous gourmet foods. Revel in the raspberry fields - from August to October, this farm is plentiful with over 15 acres of delicious Heritage Red Raspberries. Lounge in the three acres of formal English herb gardens – take in the beauty while snipping a few of the 100 different varieties of herbs! Delight in the foods and gifts at the 4,200 square foot Market Café. Many different group packages have been created; all we have to do is choose our favorite!

Location: On Rt. 36, east of Urbana. Average length of stay: 45 minutes for tour, 2 hours for tour and lunch. Restroom availabilities are available in our production facility and Market Café. Handicap accessible and motorcoach parking is plentiful. Group size: maximum of 65 people for lunch. Advanced reservations are required. Fees: factory tour $3, Raspberry Sunday Tour $8.50, Gourmet Express (tour, chocolates & lunch) $13.95, Gourmet Indulgence (tour, chocolates, lunch and gift) $19.50, Make-It, Take-It (make your own raspberry vinegar) is also available. Individual factory tours are offered Monday through Friday at 11am and 2pm. Customized group tours are by reservation only and are offered Monday through Friday. Hours: Production runs 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for tours; Market Café is open 10:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. during peak hours, noon – 5:00 p.m. during fall/winter hours. For more information, contact the Champaign County VB: 877-873-5764.

Are you ready for more delicious treats? From Fresh Water Farms, we’ll travel to Logan County to explore another American Made treasure! In the adorable town of West Liberty, nestled in a refurbished train depot is Marie’s Candies.

In 1941 polio struck a young, hardworking Ohio farmer named Winfred King. The disease put him in a wheelchair for the rest of his life. Over the years friends and neighbors helped the young family as much as they could. To express their gratitude, Winfred and his wife, Marie, began giving gifts of homemade candies. What began as a loving gesture in a country kitchen eventually grew into a successful venture that began providing a living for these two industrious people. Marie’s Candies opened its doors in 1956, and its reputation for old-fashioned, high-quality candies spread across the countryside. Jay, a son of Winfred and Marie took ownership in 1977 and in 1998 Shannon; Jay’s son, extended Marie’s Candies into its third generation. During our visit of Marie’s today, we’ll receive delicious free samples of chocolates and candies. Staff members will share the history of this Candy Company and some slides that make the story come to life.

Location: downtown West Liberty. Fee: none—but please allow plenty of time for your group to shop! This is how Marie’s is able to offer samples & the slide presentation for “no charge.” Handicapped and motor coach accessible. For more information, contact the Logan County VB at 888-564-2626.

2003 marks Marmon Valley Farm's 40th year in Christian Camping. Marmon Valley Farm has been operating as a summer camp and retreat center since 1964, under the establishment of founders Bill and Phyllis Wiley. This leadership has since been handed down to the direction of their son Matthew Wiley. Marmon Valley Farm sits on land that was once familiar to Wyandot and Shawnee Indians, as well as home to frontiersmen such as Simon Kenton! Today, groups that visit Marmon Valley Farms have many exciting activities to choose from, including; horseback riding, hayrides, petting zoo, chuckwagon meals, barn dances, picnics, hiking, and many more!

Location: 7754 SR 292 in Zanesfield. Some activities have fees, group rates are available. Advances reservations are required. Some limited handicap access, motor coach accessible. For more information, contact the Logan County VB at 888-564-2626.

Ohio’s Historic West is a not for profit organization comprised of 8 counties in west central Ohio, including; Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Darke, Logan, Mercer, Miami and Shelby counties. Ohio’s Historic West is the story of our American Experience as illustrated by our cultural and ethnic diversity, family farms, historic freedoms and liberties, rural lifestyle, scenic beauty, ingenious industrial innovations, hometown heroes, patterns of development and settlement, small town charms, and spirit of community. Take the journey!

Ohio's Historic West
Consisting of Auglaize, Champaign, Clark, Darke, Logan, Mercer, Miami and Shelby counties.