The Ultimate Travel Guide for Wapakoneta, Ohio!

Nestled in Northwest Ohio between Toledo and Dayton, sits the quaint small town of Wapakoneta.  There’s a good chance you’ve heard of it without realizing it, and let me tell you why.  At the corner of Buchanan and Benton streets is the boyhood home of Neil Armstrong. A beautiful 2 story home kept in great condition, always adorned with lovely flowers, it has a historical sign you can’t miss.

Born in 1930, just outside of Wapakoneta, Neil became interested in planes and flying at the early age of 2 years old and took his flying lessons in an airfield here in Wapakoneta.  At the time of his first steps on the moon, the Ohio governor proposed a museum in Neil’s hometown to honor “all Ohioans who have attempted to defy gravity.”

Wapakoneta has many unique places making it worth a trip, whether it’s a weekend small town getaway or a pit stop during your trip, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Things to do:

Armstrong Air and Space Museum – Located just off I-75 (and US 33) you’ll find this moon shaped museum with many unique exhibits. From two full sized aircrafts and the Gemini VIII to Armstrong’s space suits and even a moon rock aka lunar sample, this educational museum is sure to please. Throughout the year they offer camps, free activities, an Easter egg hunt and more. Make sure you check out the website to see if there’s anything special going on during your trip.

Temple of Tolerance – If you didn’t know it was there, you’d probably drive right by this must see. Walk up the driveway at 203 S. Wood St. and you’ll be transported to a place where nature and art collide. From the front of this residental property you’d never know that the back yard is a world full of boulders, structures, paths and much much more! This place is so quirky and cool that even celebrities have been here, including Johnny Depp! Follow the paths to the back where the trees open up and you’ll see the “temple” structure. Feel free to climb to the top and get a unique view of everything around you. Whether you are coming to explore, use a section as a photo backdrop or come to listen to the live music jam on a Thursday night, it’ll definitely be a memorable time.

Wapa Theater – In the historic downtown district is a theater filled with history! Circa 1904, when the film industry was in it’s infancy, this theater brought the city of Wapakoneta to life. Today, you’ll enjoy $6 movies and a great deal on snacks! When you enter the theater you’ll be pleasantly surprised that many of the original details are still there!

Summer Moon Festival – Every year in July, the entire city celebrates it’s history and legacy. Of course you’ll enjoy festival food, live music, street sales and traditional festival activities. Some of the things that make this festival unique are: a moon rock hunt, bed races, a Moon Pie eating contest and special events at the Armstrong Air & Space Museum. Check out the facebook page for more details and dates to get in on the fun!

Places to Eat:

La Neta Mexican Grill – When your tummy is rumbling, stop by this relatively new restaurant for some delicious south of the border treats! With a fun, colorful ambiance this place is more than just your typical Mexican restuarant. For starters, one dish La Neta offers is fresh made quacamole and chips. You can choose your ingredients and watch it being made right in front of your eyes. Yum yum!! Another unique thing they offer is the Pina dish. Featuring your traditional mexican flavors, this delicious dish is served in a pineapple half! Joel loved it!

J. Marie’s Wood Fired Kitchen – Head downtown to check out this modern eatery and brewery with a unique menu. The nice atmosphere appeals to all ages, featuring a wood fired oven right in the dining room! One dish I really enjoyed is the J. Marie pizza. With a thin crust and unique toppings, the wood fired stove made all the flavors come together. My friend, Barb, had the six cheese ravioli and she said it was amazing. She left stuffed!

Winans – Whether you’re looking for coffee or a sweet treat after your meal, stop in at Winan’s to satisfy your taste buds! Recently renovated and overhauled, this historic building has a cool and unique shelf wall that is filled with history, complete with a rolling ladder! During certain times of the year, they’ll feature a limited time only item, and in early May you can find the chocolate covered raspberries… very popular and delicious!

Places to Shop:

Haehn Florist and Greenhouse – Anything but your typical flower shop, this cute store is a must visit during your stop in Wapakoneta. Founded by the Haehn family in 1957 it’s still run by family, and sometimes you’ll even find 3 generations (and many family members) at the shop. Of course you’ll find a flower cooler filled with cute arrangements, but you’ll also find an attached greenhouse with unique plants and so much more. From time to time, you may enjoy the smell of fresh made Otis Spunkmeyer cookies, but don’t let that distract you from checking out all the other goodies they have to offer. From Ohio made Esther Price Chocolates and laser engraved personalized gifts, to home decor and unique gifts, you’ll be sure to find something for everyone! Whether you’re shopping for Christmas, birthdays, or just a fun day out with the girls, this shop has it all.

Casa Chic – While taking a stroll thru this bustling downtown, the beautifully decorated window displays will draw you in. Situated in a nice historic building, there are three floors of many new and antique treasures plus unique gift items! One thing that sets the apart is an art piece created by artist Jay Risner- who designs a moon related piece every year in celebration of the festival. Throughout the year, you can find his works here at Casa Chic. They also carry handmade pottery by a local artist, Ohio themed clothing, and much more! This place is a must see!

Wonderfully Made Boutique – If you’re looking for a trendy new outfit or to update your accessories, make sure you stop in at WMB. While offering a wide variety of clothing, they also offer shoes, hats, jewelry and more! I found out that most of the jewelry is made by a local artisan and they have a hard time keeping her items in stock, they are so popular! Another line made by a local artist are the tumblers and mugs! With catchy sayings and local pride, these would make great gifts for anyone! Stop in and check out this cute shop!

Nearby Attractions:

Airstream Factory Tour, Jackson Center – Are you interested in details and behind the scenes info? If you like learning about how things are made, check out the Airstream Factory Tour in nearby Jackson Center, OH. You’ll learn how the inconic travel trailers are made and watch as they still put on each rivet by hand!

Grand Lake, St. Mary’s – Grand Lake was constructed in the 19th century and at one time was the world’s largest man-made lake. It was once a swampy prairie, but now the shore of the lake includes woodlands, wetlands and prairie ecosystems that are surrounded by residential development and farms. Interestingly enough, the park is located along a major migration route for birds. Commonly seen ones include geese, loons, ducks, grebes, swans, egrets, herons and many more. The once endangered bald eagle has returned to the area and is nesting in the Grand Lake St. Marys Wildlife Refuge on the southwestern corner of the lake. Also the lake’s seaplane base is the only airport for seaplanes in Ohio.

So the next time you’re within reasonable distance of Wapakoneta, Ohio make sure you stop by and check out some of these treasures!

Have you been to Wapakoneta or nearby and have a place you like(d) to visit??
I’d love to hear from you in the comments…