Sites and Attractions...
City of Sidney’s Tawawa Civic Park
12 Tawawa Drive
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-8155
Residents of the City of Sidney are blessed with an expansive park system of almost 400 acres of park grounds. A large part of the City’s park system is the 220 acre Tawawa Civic Park in the eastern section of the City. The park is a wooded reserve includes areas for hiking, fishing, and is a wonderful outdoor location for family get-togethers, picnics and cookouts. It is also a well-known place for the runners and walkers in the area to exercise and enjoy nature at the same time.
Located in Sidney’s Tawawa park is Big Rock, a favorite for young and old for many, many years. Big Rock is but one of the many attractions located in Tawawa Park.
Ross Historical Center – Shelby County Historical Society
201 North Main Avenue
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-1653
The local historical society’s home is Shelby County’s center for local history. Visitors from outside the area and locals alike will enjoy both static and rotating exhibits on display throughout the year. The Center also features an impressive research center with computer access to a variety of local history information, photos and stories.
Sidney’s Canal Feeder Bike-Hike Trail
975 South Main Avenue (at the Rear of Graceland Cemetery)
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-8155
Sidney offers a wonderful trail that begins along the towpath of the former Sidney Feeder Canal and later runs parallel to the Great Miami River. This 3.4 mile paved trail is great for both walking and bicycling year ’round and offers scenic views of both the Great Miami River valley and adjacent wooded landscapes.
Wallace Family Learning & Innovation Center
115 East North Street
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-1653
The Center is comprised of six galleries that will tell the compelling story of how Shelby County emerged from a primitive wilderness 200 years ago to the innovative, vibrant and evolving community it is today.
Open Monday thru Friday 1:00 p.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 9:00 a.m. to Noon. Admission is FREE.
Sidney’s Covered Bridge
Tawawa Civic Park
12 Tawawa Drive
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-8155
Located in Tawawa Park, the covered bridge is subject of many photographer’s work over the years, due to its peaceful, artistic setting.
The park is adjacent to multiple baseball, softball and soccer sports complexes and also the municipal swimming pool. For more about Tawawa Park and the rest of the city’s recreational facilities, please visit the Parks & Recreation section of the City of Sidney website.
Vandemark Farm
2403 South Vandemark Road
Sidney, Ohio
(937) 492-2306
Western Ohio’s Place for Fun! Open to the public during the months of September & October, you can take a thrilling ride on the Night Hawk Zipline, play a round of miniature golf, or sharpen your game on the driving range. Kids love the Petting Zoo and a ride on the giant swing.
Vandemark Farm can be reserved for private parties and special gatherings all year round. The driving range is open year ’round as well. Call for more information.
Airstream Factory Tour
1001 West Pike Street
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334
(937) 596-6111
Airstream is a world-renowned recreational trailer manufacturer and a popular stop for many who visit our area. The company conducts daily plant tours that give visitors the opportunity to see first hand how the American legend Airstream is built. Call 937-596-6111 or visit their website for more details.
Of course visiting in person is always the best, but if you can’t, here’s a video of this incredible tour experience.
Airstream Heritage Center
1001 West Pike Street
Jackson Center, Ohio 45334
(937) 596-6111
Paying tribute to nearly 100 years of business success, the Heritage Center is comprised of vintage Airstream trailer trailers, interactive displays, and Airstream collectibles of every variety.
The Heritage Center is an ideal visit for Airstream enthusiasts and really anyone who has an interest in the RV business or Americana in general. Coupled with its weekly Factory Tours and well-stocked Airstream Gift Shop, this Jackson Center destination is a “must see”.
Read more about the Airstream Heritage Center here.
Lake Loramie State Park
4401 Fort Loramie-Swanders Road
Minster, Ohio 45865
(937) 295-2011
This state-operated park is located to the north of Sidney near the village of Fort Loramie and includes a 1600 acre lake and 30 miles of shoreline. It offers unsurpassed convenience for the family who wants to combine boating and camping adventures. At Lake Loramie visitors can set up camp in the 167 site camping area, launch their boats and set out to do some fishing or just to cruise the lake.
Lake Loramie visitors can set up camp and launch their boats, knowing there is plenty of opportunity for cruising. A designated swimming area gives young and old alike a chance to enjoy the water or simply relax in the sun. Bicycles can be rented at the park’s camp office providing visitors the opportunity to explore the park and the community of nearby Ft. Loramie.
For more information about the Lake Loramie State Park and Lake Loramie, please visit the park’s website.
Hickory Hill Lakes – Country Concert
7103 State Route 66
Fort Loramie, Ohio 45845
(937) 295-3000
The hills are truly alive with the sound of country music every summer when Country Concert at Hickory Hill Lakes brings top country performers to its stage for a three-day extravaganza. Fans come from all 50 states to enjoy the non-stop entertainment.
Gateway Arts Council
216 North Miami Avenue
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-2787
Since 1988, this local group has been promoting the creation, presentation, preservation and accessibility of artistic/cultural resources for the benefit, enjoyment and enrichment of the citizens of Shelby County. For more information and/or a schedule of upcoming performances, visit their web site.
Historic Sidney Theatre
120 West Poplar Street
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-1921
The bright lights and colorful letters on the 1930’s marquee of the Historic Sidney Theatre have been a fixture in the Shelby County community for decades. A wonderful variety of theatrical acts, live musical performances, and cinematic presentations make the Historic Sidney Theatre the perfect venue to enjoy your favorite show.
Sidney Theatre Concerts are the best. See for yourself!
A Louis Sullivan Architectural Masterpiece
101 East Court Street
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 492-6129
This building was designed by famed architect Louis Sullivan in 1917 and completed in 1918. Today, this “jewel box” design masterpiece is home to Farmers & Merchants State Bank. CLICK HERE to read about the 100 year history of this incredible building and, when you can, be sure to stop by for a visit.
Shelby County Courthouse
100 East Court Street
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-7230
Built in 1883, the Shelby County Courthouse at one time held all the county government offices. Materials for its construction (limestone, sandstone and marble) were brought in by canal boat. The 170 foot center tower is constructed with galvanized iron and features four clocks.
Monumental Building
c/o Shelby County Veterans Services
133 S Ohio Avenue
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-7282
Established in 1877, this building was constructed to honor the county’s Civil War dead. The building is located on the square in downtown Sidney and now houses the Sidney Municipal Court.
The SPOT Restaurant
201 South Ohio Avenue
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 492-9181
Art Moderns style restaurant built in 1941. Today, the SPOT is a popular gathering place for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This restaurant is best known for its fresh ground beef burgers, thick malts and home-made pies.
GreatStone Castle
429 North Ohio Avenue
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-4728
Perhaps no other residence in west central Ohio captures the glamour and opulence of the 1890’s more than this home. Whitby Place was conceived and designed by W.H.C. Goode, one of the wealthiest men in Shelby County, and the owner of the American Steel Scraper Company. Along with its two acres, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (937-498-4728)
Shelby Oaks Golf Course
9900 Sidney-Freyburg Road
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 492-2883
Come play Shelby Oaks. The “Oaks” features 27 holes of championship golf, driving range, and indoor practice facility. Their fully-stocked Pro Shop offers the latest in golf equipment and apparel. Lessons are available daily by appointment.
Great Sidney Farmer’s Market
100 East Court Street
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 492-9122
The market is “the place to be” on Saturday mornings throughout the season. Crafters offer a large variety of homemade items, and farmers bring their freshest produce to tantalize your taste buds. Fresh baked goods and jams and jellies are always a crowd pleaser. Plants and flowers are abundant. Shop early for your best selection!
This open air market is featured in downtown Sidney on the historic Shelby County court square from early June thru early October.
The Sidney Auto-Vue Drive-In Theatre
1409 4th Avenue
Sidney, Ohio
(937) 492-5909
A family-friendly Drive-In theatre where you can see two first run movies for one low price. The Auto-Vue has great concessions too.
Come on out, have some fun, and enjoy a memorable evening with your family and friends. The theatre is open seasonally; Spring, Summer, and Fall.
Moose Lodge Golf Course
1200 North Broadway
Sidney, Ohio, 45365
(937) 492-5900
Established originally as the Sidney Country Club, the Moose Lodge golf course features a challenging 9-hole layout with lush fairways, beautiful putting greens, and picturesque bunkers. Even the best of players are sure to find the “Moose” a formidable challenge to their game. Open to the public.
Sidney Water Park
12 Tawawa Drive
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-8171
Sidney’s community pool is great fun all summer long. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day the pool features a 295 foot spiral slide and speed slide for the more daring. Designated swimming areas for the little tykes and a nice picnic area are also available. Fully trained and certified life guards are always on duty.
Great Miami Riverway
Custenborder Park (River Mile 128.0)
449 Riverside Drive
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 498-8155
The scenic Great Miami River, which flows leisurely through the city, offers the adventurous both fishing and boating opportunities. Designated by the United States Department of Interior as a National Water Trail, this distinction has been given to only 21 other trails in the country.
VIDEO: Now this looks like fun!
Sidney access points to the Great Miami River:
Johnson Park – River mile 128.5
Berger Park – River mile 126.9
Roadside Park – River mile 126.4
Canal Feeder Trail – River mile 125.5
Canal Feeder Trail – River mile 122.1
Attention Anglers! Did you know that the Great Miami River is #1 in the State of Ohio for Small Mouth Bass?
For more information about fun on and around the Great Miami River, check out the Great Miami Riverway initiative. This 99 mile water trail connects 19 communities along the Great Miami River beginning in Sidney and ending in Hamilton, Ohio.
And, don’t forget, SAFETY FIRST. The live Trail and River Conditions Map on the Great Miami Riverway website helps you understand river water levels and safety conditions. Besure to check it out before your next river adventure.
Busch Family Fish Farm & Pay Lakes
15030 Lock Two Road
Botkins, Ohio 45306
(937) 693-3640
Busch Family Fish Farm hosts seven small ponds stocked primarily with channel catfish, hybrid bluegill, and largemouth bass. Their largest pond is home to regular bluegill and crappie. You’re sure to enjoy this clean, attractive, quiet, and safe fishing facility. Personal assistance is available to those needing it while fishing. Bait shop and picnic areas on site. Guests are permitted to bring their own bait, food and non alcoholic beverages. Fishing licenses are not required.
Shelby County Fair
655 South Highland Avenue
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 492-7385
Each year the Shelby County Fair attracts visitors from all points who come to enjoy the thrills of the midway, sample the incredible selection of food, take in the wide variety of live entertainment, watch the harness racing and tour the agriculture and livestock displays. Call (937) 492-7385 for more information or visit the fair website.
In addition, numerous activities and attractions are hosted on the Shelby County Fair Grounds throughout the year. These include hobby shows, auctions, live entertainment of all varieties, agricultural related functions, car shows, and more. A comprehensive list of all non-fair events can be found at www.shelbycountyfair.com.
Historic Downtown Sidney
c/o Sidney Alive
100 East Court Street
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 492-9122
In 1819, the Ohio General Assembly determined that Shelby County needed a permanent site to serve as the county seat. Seventy acres of cleared farmland adjacent to the Great Miami River were donated and the new town was named Sidney, after Sir Phillip Sidney, an English patriot and writer. Now dubbed a National Registered Historic District, the Downtown Courthouse Square area of Sidney hosts an abundance of wonderful artwork, architecture and historic sites which are bound to catch any visitor’s eye.
Big Four Bridge
975 South Main Avenue
Sidney, Ohio 45365
A Sidney landmark for over 75 years. The Big Four Railroad line was the east-west link through the county. It was known as the Cleveland, Cincinnati, Chicago and St. Louis (thus the Big Four Railroad), later the Bee line, and after 1930, the New York Central Railroad. Construction was finished July, 1853.
Shelby County Libraries
c/o Amos Memorial Library
230 East North Street
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 492-8354
Starting life in 1869 as “The Sidney Lyceum and Library Association” in a small, downtown rented room – and later renamed Amos Memorial Public Library when its brand new facility was opened in 1958 – the library system in Shelby County has grown to include the main library and 5 branches in Anna, Botkins, Fort Loramie, Jackson Center, and Russia. The downtown Sidney library was completely renovated in 2017 and offers outstanding general reading and reference materials along with special interest programming, an impressive genealogical research collection, busy children’s and teen’s rooms, and expanded movie, music, & digital collections.
Bel-Mar Lanes
101 West Russell Road
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 492-9711
Bel-Mar Lanes is your home for family FUN in Sidney. At Bel-Mar Lanes you and your friends can have a great time at prices that won’t break your budget. 12 automatic scoring lanes, bumper bowling for the kids, snack bar, and COOL Cosmic Bowling where you bowl with the lights turned down, music turned up and awesome special effects lighting.
Hammer & Stain
106 East Poplar Street
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 507-4054
Hammer & Stain is a Do It Yourself Studio. Guests transform unfinished wood into beautiful and personalized home décor. Their guided classes give you the tools and we make it fun and easy to create. All you do is bring yourself, friends and family.
The Lost Land Corn Maze at Vandemark Farm
c/o Vandemark Farm
2403 South Vandemark Road
Sidney, Ohio
(937) 492-2306
The Lost Land Corn Maze is a fantastic outdoor fall activity – hosted weekends from the beginning of September through the end of October.
The maze path totals 2 miles in length and is located only a short drive from Dayton, Springfield, and Lima. Great fun for all ages!
Rolling Hills Skate
105 East Russell Road
Sidney, Ohio 45365
(937) 492-7587
Open September through May, Rolling Hills Skate in Sidney is a family-friendly facility providing recreational skating for individuals as well as large and small group outings. Rolling Hills not only provides a wonderful outlet for exercise, but a safe, fun and wholesome environment as well where parents can feel good about bringing their kids.
Yes, Rolling Hills Skate is a skating business, but much more than that, it’s a family business. So for your next family, civic group, church group, or school group outing, be sure to check out Rolling Hills Skate.
Arrowhead Golf Course
2211 Dirksen Road
Minster, Ohio 45385
(419) 628-3111
18 holes of championship golf with driving range and full service restaurant & bar. Be sure to stop by the pro shop for a souvenir to take home.
Anna One-Room School House
11385 Amsterdam Road
Anna, Ohio 45302
(937) 394-7169
Originally constructed in 1887, this school was closed in 1925 after 38 years of faithful service to the surrounding community. The school house was restored with great care by owners Bill and Bonnie Elsass. Tours offered by appointment. Meeting room with modern kitchen available on lower level.
Call 937-394-7169 for more information.
Ft. Loramie Wilderness Trail Museum
37 N. Main Street
Fort Loramie, Ohio 45845
No Phone – Please see web site for contact info.
The Wilderness Trail Museum is owned and operated by the Fort Loramie Historical Association. In it visitors can view uniforms and memorabilia from the Civil War, WWI and WWII as well as Indian artifacts. Visitors can also view a turn-of-the-century dry goods store, women’s store, and a display of old shoe-making equipment. Included in the tour is a barn which features equipment used on farms in the area a hundred years ago. The museum offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, most notably the Williamsburg Christmas Dinners held over a four-evening period in early December each year. (937-295-3855). Find out more on their website.
Miami and Erie Canal State Scenic Byway
The byway features many scenic, historic, cultural and recreational amenities along its 54 mile route that passes through Auglaize, Shelby, Miami, Van Wert and Allen counties in west-central Ohio.
Lockington Dam and Reserve
Lockington, Ohio 45356
c/o Shelby County Park District
(937) 498-7226
Lockington Reserve is a 200-acre tract featuring a remarkable variety of natural landscapes. Within its boundaries, one can find flood plain forest and upland woods, 90-foot high bluff, pine grove marsh areas, streams and ponds. This natural area remains undeveloped because of its role as a dry storage basin for floodwaters periodically backing up behind the Lockington Dam. The Dam itself was built between 1918 and 1921 by the Miami Conservancy District as part of a plan to prevent the flooding of 1913 from ever happening again. The dam is 6,400 feet long, 69 feet high, and 409 feet wide at its base. Lockington Dam has 1.135 million cubic yards of earth in its embankment and has a 72-foot-long spillway. When built the volume of concrete needed to construct its conduits and spillway totaled 38,000 cubic yards. Visit the website for more information.
The Shelby County Park District
The Shelby County Park District was created in 1978 to 1) provide unique natural land areas as they become available, 2) where people may enjoy relaxing recreational activities in a natural setting and 3) develop natural parks that will fill the void between state and municipal/village parks and preserve the natural environment for the benefit of present and future generations. You can find out more about our local park district by visiting their website.
