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While we are paid partners with the Medina County Convention & Visitors Bureau, all opinions and reviews in this article are our own.

Apr 28, 2025

Small Town Charm with Big Personality

Looking for a weekend getaway that blends small-town Midwest charm with vibrant culture? Perhaps you will feel like you're a part of a Hallmark movie set with its cute downtown! Wadsworth, Ohio, just a short drive from Akron, Canton, and Cleveland, offers an eclectic mix of history, art, food, and relaxation that is perfect for a spring escape.

Wadsworth was known for the iconic Ohio Blue Tip matches
Wadsworth was established in 1814

Where to stay

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Wadsworth

Kick off your weekend at the award-winning Holiday Inn Express & Suites Wadsworth. Newly renovated, everything looks and feels new. Conveniently located off I-76, this hotel offers modern amenities like free Wi-Fi, a complimentary hot breakfast (be sure to have one of the famous soft, flaky cinnamon rolls and bean-to-cup Costa Coffee), an indoor pool, and EV charging stations. Earn or use points for a free stay with IHG One Rewards!

Next door is The Galaxy, where you can choose from steakhouse dining, a wine room, a sports bar with a seasonal patio, and a banquet center. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, it's a comfortable base for exploring the area.

King Room at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Wadsworth
Relax in the hotel lobby
Make a fresh bean-to-cup Costa Coffee

What to see

Memorial Park

Spanning nearly 48 acres, Memorial Park is Wadsworth’s crown jewel. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the "Memorial Walk," bordered by magnolia trees and bronze plaques honoring local heroes. You might even try your luck at the 18-hole Disc Golf course that winds through the trees and open spaces! The park also features playgrounds, tennis courts, and picnic areas—ideal for a spring afternoon.

Historic Downtown & Gazebo

Stroll through downtown Wadsworth to admire beautifully preserved historic homes and the iconic gazebo in East Park. This charming spot often hosts community events and is perfect for a photo op. As you enter the downtown area, you will be in awe of many historic houses, from classic Victorians to Tudors, Craftsman, and Georgian Colonials.

Don't miss the Downtown Gazebo
Stop by the sidewalk clock
Historic Queen Anne Victorian on College Street
Historic Tudor on Woodland Avenue

Downtown Murals

Discover a vibrant outdoor gallery with murals celebrating Wadsworth’s rich history. Highlights include “The Healing Force,” featuring a majestic red cardinal, and “Wadsworth’s Connections to Space,” a tribute to the city's aerospace contributions. Also, spot the nod to Wadsworth’s famous Ohio Blue Tip Match, once manufactured just south of downtown. Many of the factory and warehouse buildings have been repurposed into office and various types of commercial spaces.

Where to eat + drink

Wadsworth Brewing Company

Experience local craft beers in a welcoming atmosphere. The menu also has delicious food to complement signature taps, including the River Styx Monster and Thelma Lou. This family-owned brewery offers a rotating selection of brews, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration.

Wadsworth Brewing Company on Main Street
Cheers with Thelma Lou Blonde Ale

Filia Cellars

Filia Cellars is a family-owned Greenwich Road winery featuring estate-grown big reds and locally sourced whites. Enjoy live music and tastings inside the historic farmhouse or unwind in the Heritage Building, a barn-like setting.

Filia Cellars offers big red wines
Enjoy a glass at Filia in the farmhouse

The Vue

For a fine dining experience, The Vue offers a rotating menu of contemporary American cuisine every ten weeks, focusing on fresh, local ingredients. It's an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. The presentation is exquisite, and the flavors were perfect after a day of exploring along Main Street in Wadsworth!

Cocktails at The Vue Wadsworth
Steak Lo Mein at The Vue

DOLCE at The Strand

Indulge in handcrafted Italian gelato, pastries, and boozy cocktails at DOLCE, located inside the historic Strand Theater. With its one-of-a-kind ambiance and outdoor seating, it's a sweet spot to enjoy with friends and family. Be sure also to check out their bocce courts if weather permits!

The Strand Marquee
DOLCE at The Strand Fresh Italian Gelato

Where to shop?

William Hromy Antiques

Step back in time to the Shakers’ era! This charming shop offers a curated selection of antiques and vintage treasures, perfect for collectors and history enthusiasts.

Don't miss William Hromy Antiques
Hromy Antiques has collections of pottery

Quaint His-Hers-Home

Browse a delightful mix of home décor, clothing, and gifts at this boutique, which offers something special for everyone. We enjoyed the fun t-shirt selection and handcrafted leather accessories. The Plant Aunt also has you covered for houseplant needs!

Just Eat The Cookie

You might remember her from Season 8 of Food Network’s Christmas Cookie Challenge! Now serving at a shop within Quaint, Vee Andexler has set up a place to explore creative baking at home with a wall of cookie cutters or other specialty needs. Or take a cookie to go! Satisfy your sweet tooth with gourmet cookies and baked goods made from scratch—a must-visit for dessert lovers.

Urban Cottage

Explore a variety of home furnishings and décor items that blend rustic charm with modern style. Dawn has curated locally sourced products and artful pieces in this newly opened store on the bustling Main Street.

Urban Cottage Bronzed Aluminum Wall Art
Urban Cottage features pieces by local artists

The Bookshelf

Did you know Wadsworth has a cozy independent bookstore offering a wide selection of titles, including local authors and bestsellers? Lightly used books sold here benefit Project: LEARN, a nonprofit based in Medina County offering specialized programs in any area of adult basic education. It's the perfect place to find your next great read.

Re-discover favorites at The Bookshelf
Lightly used books for everyone

Visit Medina County

Wadsworth, Ohio, offers a perfect blend of relaxation, culture, and community spirit. Whether savoring local wines, exploring history, or enjoying the spring air in a beautiful park, this charming town provides a refreshing weekend escape.

Take an overnight or weekend getaway and use our itinerary above for a memorable time. Click here to download or request a Visitors Guide for more information beyond what we have done.

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