For decades Shelby County has enjoyed the distinction of having the highest percentage of manufacturing jobs per capita in the State of Ohio. Today and throughout its history, Shelby County is known as a place that builds things. With a visit, you’ll quickly see why this region is a hotbed for manufacturing and how that came to be.
Your day begins with a tour of the Airstream manufacturing facility, affectionately known as “the Mothership”. You’ve seen these iconic travel trailers on the highway, now you can witness first-hand how they’re built with a guided factory tour. From the first stages of assembly through final checks for quality assurance, these world-class travel trailers are manufactured exclusively in Jackson Center, Ohio.
After the tour, a visit to the Airstream Heritage Center is a must. Paying tribute to nearly 100 years of business success, the Heritage Center displays an incredible collection of vintage Airstream travel trailers, interactive exhibits, and Airstream collectibles of every variety imaginable. The Airstream Starbucks and Airstream Supply Company are popular on-site stops as well for a cup of coffee and souvenir from your visit. For those craving more, an Airstream Touring Coach plant tour is also available.
Nearby, downtown Sidney is home to Austeria Wine Boutique where guests treat themselves to curated wine tastings at this lovely bottle shop that features more than 900 bottles of wine. Wine prices begin at $10-$15 per bottle and include local, national, and international varieties for patrons to discover, sample, and purchase. Austeria also offers a nice “small plates” menu to include paninis, charcuterie, and more.
Day 2 begins with a chance to stretch your legs on a walking tour of downtown Sidney. Here, you can visit the F & M State Bank, built in 1917 by famed architect Louis Sullivan, who served as a mentor to Frank Lloyd Wright. This exquisite architectural masterpiece, best known for its “jewel box” design, is not to be missed. From there, you’ll stroll across the street for a peek into the Monumental Building, originally constructed in 1877 to honor Shelby County’s fallen Civil War soldiers. Where Buffalo Bill Cody and Annie Oakley once performed, the beautifully renovated Opera House on the upper level is now home to Sidney’s Municipal Court.
Downtown dining options include the famous Spot Restaurant, where guests have enjoyed mouthwatering meals for more than 118 years. The fresh, homemade pies are out of this world. Other downtown dining options include Murphy’s Craftbar + Kitchen and Greenhaus Coffee. Murphy’s features locally sourced ingredients in their varied menu of tasty dishes and 48 taps of your favorite beers. Greenhaus is best known for their scrumptious salads, sandwiches, and oh-so-good coffees and teas. For lighter fares and a unique menu of healthy choices, Greenhaus Coffee is the place to go. Another local favorite is The Bridge Restaurant. The Bridge offers steaks, chops, and fresh seafood selections in a picturesque setting. Guests can dine in or “Al Fresco” on their beautiful outdoor covered patio.
After lunch, tour the Wallace Family Learning & Innovation Center, where you’ll learn the compelling story of how Shelby County emerged from a primitive wilderness 200 years ago to the innovative and vibrant community it is today. A total of six galleries featuring interactive displays & exhibits are exceptionally well presented and very informative.
On Day 3 let’s take a short drive beyond downtown Sidney where you’ll enjoy a variety of additional shopping and dining options. Gallery 2:10 and Sidney Flower Shop are ideal stops to pick up something nice for yourself or a friend. Fun, locally owned dining options include Fuji Sushi & Steakhouse, High Grounds Café, and Cazadores Mexican cuisine.
Before heading home, a visit to Sidney’s tranquil Tawawa Park will rejuvenate your soul. This 220-acre civic park is ideal for hiking, fishing, birding, and a wonderful outdoor location for family get-togethers, picnics and cookouts. Paved and nonpaved trails are perfect for taking in the fresh air and getting reconnected to nature’s beauty.
To learn more, www.VisitSidneyShelby.com.
