October 9, 2018

The ultimate travel guide to Lima, Ohio

Not to be mistaken for the city in Peru, this town named like the bean, has many goodies just off the beaten path. Lima, in Northwest Ohio, is located between Toledo and Dayton on I-75. Established in 1831, Lima is home to several famous people including comedian Phyllis Diller and Beach Boys founding member Al Jardine.

Lima is known for several notable achievements throughout history, but one of the most famous things about Lima includes a notorious criminal. After his stop in the Allen County jail, John Dillinger was put on the FBI’s Top Ten Most Wanted list for his involvement in the jail break and murder of the sheriff!

Whether you’re passing through or making a day trip to Lima, here are a few things that you’ll want to consider checking out…

Places to Eat:

Happy Daz– Whether you’re looking for a blast from the past or just some good food, stop by this one-of-a-kind diner style burger joint. Featuring juicy burgers and creamy milkshakes, this fast food place serves diner classics on the go. One unique sandwich that is a must try is the famous Tremendously Tasty Tenderloin sandwich, it’s huge! Come hungry and leave happy 🙂

Kewpee – Started in 1923 this restaurant is named as the second fast food burger joint in the US. Named after the Kewpie Doll, Kewpee was one of the first to institute curbside service, then morphing from a drive-in service into the current drive-thru service. At one time over 400 locations were in existence, but over the years that number has dwindled. In January 2010, Kewpee was named to the National Restaurant News 50: All-American Icons list. Of the handful left, three locations are in Lima and are a staple in the community! With it’s fresh local beef and thick malts, Kewpee quickly becomes a favorite of first timers. Nationally recognized musicians have even made a point to stop here after concerts!

The Meeting Place on Market is a unique coffee shop that’s so much more! Offering any kind of coffee drink you can imagine, they also serve fresh baked goodies plus fresh soup and sandwiches. One thing that’s cool about this coffee shop is that they often host local musicians and artists to showcase their talents. Just recently, the owner opened a second shop directly across the street featuring all Ohio made goods by local artists! Stop by and check out this gem in Lima!

Thai Jasmine – Serving authentic recipes straight from Thailand, Tina and Bon at Thai Jasmine know how to please your palette! While small in stature, this place is big in the community! As a popular date night destination, on a Friday night there is usually a short wait but don’t worry, the service is fast. With meals made to order, the food is fresh and steaming hot! Normally I don’t get appetizers, so I don’t fill up before my meal comes. Thai Jasmine is one of those places where an appetizer is a must! The fresh spring rolls are so good I could make an entire meal of them. The crispy rolls and crab rangoon are also delicious choices. Whatever level of spice you like, they offer it all! Thai Rad Na, Pad Woon Sen and Pepper Steak are just a couple of the very tasty, but not spicy menu items. If you still have room, a delicious end to your meal is the Mango Rice. SO yummy! Joel introduced me to Thai food when we were dating and I have yet to try anything I don’t like. 🙂

Pats Donuts & Kreme – Known around town as the place to go for a sweet treat, Pat’s has been family owned and operated since 1983. Along with donuts and sweets, they also make pizza and other savory goodies. Having been voted #1 donuts in Lima many times, they pride themselves on making fresh donuts daily! Stop by one of their locations for a tasty treat.

Things to do:

Edgewood Skating Rink – As skating rinks become a thing of the past, this staple has made a name for itself in the community. Having just celebrated it’s 40th anniversary, Edgewood Skating Rink is a popular hang out on the weekends. Offering many special events throughout the year, there’s something for everyone!

Johnny Appleseed Parks – With 14 parks in the county, the Lima area has a lot of natural treasure to offer. Many of these parks have paved walking trails plus offer play areas for the kids. Whether you want to have a quiet picnic lunch or escape the hustle and bustle of a busy city, these parks are a beautiful getaway that are also nearby.

Allen County Museum – Offering tributes to local and international history, the museum offers a lot to see and do for kids of all ages. Featuring a children’s themed garden outdoors and a discovery center inside, children will love the hands on exhibits and taking a trip back in time here. The “big kids” will enjoy the many exhibits including trains and a full size locomotive. Hosting a Christmas Tree festival each year as well as decorating the McDonell house next door for the holidays, December is a wonderful time of year to visit the museum, especially if you love all things Chrismas. Whether you’re from Ohio or another state, there’s a ton of history and fun in this museum.

Allen County Fair – Every August since 1851 the Allen Co. Fair comes to Lima in a big way! Drawing over 200,000 visitors each year, it is one of the largest in the state! With many big name acts headlining over the last few decades, this fair has made a name for itself and draws people from all over the state. Don’t forget to stop by the artist building showcasing local talent in photography, floral design and much more. If you’re looking for some delicious fair food you’ll be sure to find it all here, but make sure you try an egg roll from Be Tran’s! I know it sounds funny to get egg rolls at a fair, but take my word for it! You’ll thank me! 🙂

Places to shop:

Old Thyme Pantry – Just outside of Lima, this small store is a jewel! Featuring bulk spices and baking items, you can pick up items that are a little harder to find. You can also grab some dried pineapple to snack on or maybe try the dried kiwi… yum! They also have a meat and cheese counter to get yours sliced fresh! If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the fresh made kettle corn during select times of the year. Stop out sometime and check out this unique little shop.

Repeat Boutique – This shop is loaded with super cute goodies! You’ll find new and gently used clothing items plus accessories like purses, shoes and jewelry. Stocking items in season, this cute store is always changing. Stop by and check out all the cute items in stock when you’re needing to update or add new pieces to your wardrobe.