It’s the Best Time to Discover It
There’s just something about fall in Shelby County. Temperatures start to cool, the leaves begin to change, and it’s the perfect time to get outside and enjoy everything the community has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway, a family day trip or simply a change of scenery, you’ll find plenty of reasons to make your way to Sidney and Shelby County this fall.
If you’re looking for changing leaves, start with Lake Loramie State Park in Fort Loramie or Tawawa Civic Park in Sidney. Both offer beautiful scenery and plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors.
Lake Loramie features a 1,600-acre lake with 30 miles of shoreline, making it a great place to hike, bike, fish or get out on the water. Kayak rentals are available, and the park’s adaptive boat launch makes getting onto the water easy and convenient. Anglers will find crappie, bluegill and bass, while those who simply enjoy being outdoors can take in the changing colors surrounding the lake.
And don’t forget your camera. Lake Loramie is home to a variety of birds and wildlife, including bald eagles, woodpeckers, ducks, great blue herons and hawks. Keep your eyes open while you’re exploring and you may also spot deer, fox, mink, raccoons and squirrels along the way.
In Sidney, Tawawa Civic Park offers another great place to spend a fall afternoon. The 220-acre wooded park is popular with hikers, bicyclists and anglers, and there are plenty of places to enjoy a picnic or just sit back and take in the scenery.
But fall in Shelby County offers more than beautiful parks and changing leaves.
Families looking for seasonal fun will want to stop at Crossway Farms for Fall on the Farm. Pick out a pumpkin, walk through the sunflower and Zinnia fields, let the kids explore the Crossway Corral Play Zone and visit the farm store for pumpkins, donuts, mums, fresh produce, seasonal gourds, jams, jellies and plenty of other favorites. And if you’ve never tried the Apple Cider Explosion or pumpkin donut, add them to your list!
For even more fall fun, head to Vandemark Farm and the Lost Land Corn Maze. The cooler temperatures make it a great time to explore the corn maze, take a hayride, ride the zip line, play mini golf or take a turn on the giant swing. There’s enough to keep the whole family busy for an afternoon.
If you enjoy a little history with your fall activities, don’t miss the Shelby County Historical Society’s annual Ghost Walk in downtown Sidney. It’s a fun way to learn about some of the people and stories from Sidney and Shelby County’s past—and yes, a few stories may give you a little chill along the way!
Fall also brings some fun traditions to downtown Sidney. Sidney Alive’s Downtown Chocolate Walk is a favorite for those with a sweet tooth, giving visitors a chance to stroll through downtown, visit participating businesses and enjoy chocolate treats along the way. It’s a fun way to experience downtown while doing a little shopping and supporting local businesses.
And don’t forget about the Sidney Farmers Market, where you can find local produce, baked goods, mums, fresh flowers, handmade items and more. A Saturday morning at the market is an easy way to slow down, meet local vendors and take a little piece of Shelby County home with you.
There’s even more happening during the Downtown Fall Festival, with kids’ trick-or-treating, a costume contest, family activities and more throughout downtown. It’s a great time to explore Sidney, grab a bite to eat and enjoy the energy of the community.
So, grab your sweater, your walking shoes and maybe your camera, and make plans to spend some time in Shelby County this fall. Whether you’re here for an afternoon or a full weekend, there’s plenty to discover.
And once you’ve experienced fall in Shelby County, you may want to start planning your next visit. The holidays are just around the corner. Plenty of reasons to come back and make a few new memories.
For more ideas on things to do, places to stay, where to eat and upcoming events, visit visitsidneyshelby.com. “Sidney, Ohio… the spirit we share. Come share our spirit.”
