Ohio’s scenic riverside village: a gem of antiques, food, and canals

Ohio offers a wide range of travel experiences, from bustling cities to quiet small towns. The state’s capital and largest city, Columbus, is known for its vibrant food scene that showcases international flavors. However, for those seeking a more tranquil getaway, Ohio also has charming destinations like Berlin and Granville. Another notable example is the village of Grand Rapids, a riverside community that provides a unique blend of history, shopping, and local culture.

Grand Rapids is situated along the Maumee River and was established in the 1830s. While the town currently has just under 1,000 residents, it attracts over 30,000 visitors annually to its Applebutter Fest. This festival, which began in 1977, celebrates the area’s agrarian roots with vendors offering seasonal decorations, jewelry, textiles, and various food options, along with live music.

The town also offers a glimpse into life along the historic Miami and Erie Canal, which was built between 1825 and 1845. This canal connected Cincinnati and Toledo and played a vital role in Ohio’s economic development. In the late 1800s, horses and mules pulled boats along the canal until railroads rendered this method obsolete. Today, visitors can take a scenic ride on an authentic canal boat replica at Providence Metropark, located less than two miles from downtown. Seasonal rides typically run from May through late October, with adult tickets priced at $10, and discounted rates available for children and seniors.

Finding the Best Restaurants in Grand Rapids

For a meal in Grand Rapids, several locally owned restaurants are popular among residents and visitors alike. Mama Theresa’s is one such spot, offering classic pizza and sub options, along with sides like salads and garlic cheese bread. Some diners praise the flavor of the pizza sauce, while others note that prices may be higher than expected. The restaurant, located by the river in the heart of downtown, is typically open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., and Fridays through Sundays from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Knucklehead’s Kafe is another favorite for American fare, featuring a menu that includes burgers, sandwiches, mac and cheese, and salads. One Google reviewer praised the “divine” mac and cheese and the attentive service. Knucklehead’s is open every day except Mondays and Tuesdays.

If you’re looking for a craft beer or cocktail paired with a delicious slice of pizza, Wild Side Brewing Company is the place to go. It offers a variety of lagers and ales, as well as classic cocktails like whiskey sours, Manhattans, and Old Fashioneds. The menu also features shareable items such as bruschetta, pork shanks, and sausage boards. The restaurant prides itself on Detroit-style pizzas made with San Marzano tomatoes and Wisconsin brick white cheese, with an extensive selection of toppings to choose from.

Antique Shopping in Grand Rapids

Antique shopping is a key attraction in Grand Rapids. Just For You Shoppe, located in The Shoppes at Carson Block, carries a mix of new and pre-owned home decor, antiques, jewelry, clothing, and shoes. The store is typically open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and one reviewer noted that the atmosphere is relaxed, with friendly and helpful staff and a neat, organized layout.

Another popular destination for antique shopping is Grand Rapids Vintage Treasures, which functions as a multi-vendor marketplace housing several small businesses under one roof. Here, visitors can find a wide range of items, including lamps, home decor, unique tea sets, and salt-and-pepper shakers.

Getting to Grand Rapids

The closest commercial airport to Grand Rapids is the Eugene F. Kranz Toledo Express Airport, about a 20-minute drive away. For more flight options, Fort Wayne International Airport in Indiana is approximately a 90-minute drive. Travelers could even combine their visit to Grand Rapids with a trip to Tiffin, another charming Ohio town known for its small-town charm, great food, and walkable downtown.

Once in Grand Rapids, the Riverside Hideaway is a recommended accommodation option due to its central location. It can accommodate up to five guests for around $180 per night at the time of writing.