In the city itself, you'll want to visit the Toledo Zoo and Aquarium, which consistently ranks as one of the top zoos in the nation. The zoo is home to thousands of animals from more than 750 species. The Toledo Museum of Art houses a world-renowned glass collection in the five galleries of its stunning Glass Pavilion, along with daily glass-blowing demonstrations. Its art collection includes a sculpture garden and pieces by Monet, Rembrandt, van Gogh, and Picasso.
Drive an hour and 15 minutes to the east along OH-2 to reach Cedar Point, the self-described “Roller Coaster Capital of the World.” The 365-acre amusement park on Lake Erie boasts more than 15 roller coasters of all kinds. Its newest addition is the Valravn, the world's tallest, longest, and fastest dive coaster.
About an hour away via OH-579 E and OH-2 E sits Port Clinton, Ohio. From there, you can catch a ferry to Put-in-Bay, known as the “Key West of the North.” Free attractions include an aquatic center with five exhibits and a fishing area for children. The nation's third-largest monument, the Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, sits at Put-in-Bay to honor those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812. You can also see the world's largest geode at Crystal Cave, visit one of the many museums, go parasailing, golf at the par-three nine-hole course, and more.
When to Visit Toledo, OH
To make the most of your visit to Toledo, try to time your trip for late spring. The city and surrounding area offer plenty of outdoor activities, which will be best enjoyed during the warmer spring weather. You can walk or bike at Toledo's Metroparks, visit the Toledo Botanical Garden in full bloom, or go fishing in the Maumee River. Spring is also baseball season, so you can watch the Toledo Mud Hens (a minor league team affiliated with the Detroit Tigers) play.
Other times of year offer their own perks, though. For instance, because September tends to be the least popular month to visit, you may be able to find better rates then. Prices also tend to drop around March. You can visit in October to see the fall foliage or during December for a good chance at a white Christmas. Fishermen will enjoy the annual Walleye Run that typically lasts from mid-March through mid-April.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Toledo, OH:
Toledo by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Toledo, OH. You can use these illustrations to determine the cheapest time to book in Toledo for upcoming travels.
Luxury Hotel Options in Toledo, OH
4 Star Average Prices: $139.00
For a more luxurious experience, consider the Maumee Bay Lodge & Conference Center. This resort sits just 10 miles east of Toledo in Maumee Bay State Park, on the shores of Lake Erie. Stay in a traditional hotel room in the lodge or in a two- or four-bedroom cabin; some cabins are even pet-friendly. All eight meeting rooms have windows, and four have walk-out balconies, as well. Other on-site amenities include an indoor and outdoor pool; a golf course, game room, and various sport facilities; a restaurant, lounge, and snack shop; and much more.
For a romantic getaway, choose the Belamere Suites Hotel in Perrysburg. This boutique hotel is a child-free zone exclusive to those 21 or older. In-room spa services are available, as well as a variety of packages and other amenities to make your stay as relaxing and romantic as possible. Order a couple's massage, the anniversary or romance package, or a la carte items like fresh cookies, pizza, candles, wine, rose petals, or chocolate-covered strawberries — many of which you can order ahead of time and have waiting in your room when you arrive.
Other luxury hotels include the Hampton Inn & Suites – Toledo, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Toledo West, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriot Toledo North, and the Park Inn by Radisson. About 20 minutes away in Maumee, you can find a Homewood Suites by Hilton and a Residence Inn by Marriott. You can also stay just outside Toledo at the Hampton Inn Toledo/Oregon off I-280, which has very good customer reviews.
Affordable Hotel Options in Toledo, OH
3 Star Average Prices: $109.95
You can find several hotel options in Toledo whose rates start under $60 per night. The Days Inn Toledo is right off of I-75 and offers three conference rooms, an indoor pool, and a health and fitness center. The Motel 6 on Heatherdowns Boulevard welcomes pets, provides daily morning coffee, and has received good customer reviews. Each room includes a full kitchen with a microwave, refrigerator, coffee maker, stovetop, and cooking utensils.
About eight minutes away in the suburbs of Northwood, America's Best Value Inn & Suites offers rooms for around $50 per night. The Baymont Inn & Suites in Perrysburg and the Rodeway Inn in Toledo fall into the same price range. Both are suburban properties; the first offers a complimentary breakfast and the second includes an on-site gym. Meanwhile, rooms at the BridgePointe Inn & Suites (also in Northwood) can be found for around $60 per night.
There are three Red Roof Inns located in or around Toledo, and all of them are among the most highly-rated budget options in the area. The downtown location on Executive Parkway is near Toledo University and offers rooms for less than $50 per night. The other two can be found in Holland and Maumee, both about eight miles from Toledo. The former offers the lowest prices while the latter boasts the highest ratings.
