Autumn in Shelby County, Ohio, is good for the soul. With an enviable variety of “naturescapes” to enjoy, a weekend getaway to Sidney is just what’s needed to rejuvenate your spirit.
Bicycling and hiking enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the fall colors of Lake Loramie State Park in Fort Loramie and Tawawa Civic Park in Sidney. Lake Loramie State Park features a 1,600-acre lake with 30 miles of shoreline, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventurers seeking to combine both on- and off-water excursions. Here, visitors can pitch their camp on one of 167 sites offering both primitive and RV camping with all the amenities. Those who enjoy the experience of a cabin will find several options situated just steps away from the picturesque Lake Loramie shoreline.
Anglers are sure to love the seasonal sport fishing at Lake Loramie. Crappie, bluegill, and bass are among the most popular species abundant in the lake. Lake Loramie is also perfect for kayak fishing. Those needing a little extra assistance getting onto the water will find the adaptive boat launch incredibly easy to use and so convenient. Additionally, Lake Loramie offers rental kayaks for those who do not bring their own.
Oh, and don’t forget your camera. Lake Loramie State Park is home to an incredible variety of birds and wildlife, including bald eagles, woodpeckers, ducks, blue herons, and hawks. While hiking, you’ll also likely cross paths with deer, fox, mink, raccoon, and squirrel. These species viewed or photographed against the backdrop of spectacular fall color are breathtaking.
Tawawa Civic Park is also an incredible natural resource. With its 220 acres, Tawawa Park is a wooded reserve perfect for hiking, biking, and fishing, and is a wonderful outdoor location for family get-togethers, picnics, and cookouts.
Well beyond the allure of Lake Loramie and Tawawa parks, Sidney and Shelby County have an incredible lineup of fall activities not to be missed. Now through October 31st, guests to Crossway Farms will love their Fall on the Farm days. U-pick pumpkins, a sunflower field, and the Crossway Corral Play Zone are great options for family fun. The Crossway Farm Store is perfect for autumn shoppers, offering pumpkins, mums, fresh fruit, veggies, seasonal gourds, jams, jellies, donuts, and coffee cakes. And did we mention the Apple Cider Explosion? This incredible, edible, drinkable creation is a real showstopper.
Another seasonal attraction of note is the Lost Land Corn Maze at Vandemark Farm, offering great family fun in the cooler Autumn temperatures. Here you can zip line, explore their corn maze, challenge your group to a round of mini golf, take a hayride, defy gravity on the giant swing, and work on your game at the golfers’ driving range. The Lost Land Corn Maze is open weekends through November 2, 2025.
The Shelby County Historical Society’s annual Ghost Walk is also a lot of fun (and educational, too). Here, past residents of Sidney and Shelby County share their incredible stories with the living. The Ghost Walk will take place on October 8–9, 2025, in downtown Sidney. Tour times are 5:30, 6:00, 6:30, 7:00, and 7:30 each evening, with tours lasting 2 hours.
Concluding the Autumn calendar in Sidney is the Downtown Fall Festival on Friday and Saturday, October 10 – 11, 2025. Those attending will enjoy a Chocolate Walk and Craft Show Friday evening, plus Kids Trick or Treat & Costume Contest, a Farmers Market, loads of family fun activities, and more on Saturday morning until 1pm.
Of course, we all know that the conclusion of fun Autumn activities clears the way for the always spectacular Christmas season, making now the ideal time to plan your holiday travel to Sidney. On this online events calendar, you’ll find the perfect place for inspiration to begin new travel traditions.
“Sidney, Ohio… the spirit we share. Come share our spirit.”
