Downtown Toledo

No Toledo neighborhood tour would be complete without a stop in the lively Downtown area. This is the center of arts and culture in the city, home to the beautiful Toledo Museum of Art, one of the best art museums in the country. Walk through galleries of American and European painting and sculpture, admire the Glass Pavilion’s stunning collection, and let the kids explore hands-on exhibits in the Family Center. After taking in some art, stretch your legs in Levis Square, grab a bite to eat, or check out a show at the historic Valentine Theatre. Downtown Toledo also offers beautiful river and skyline views along the Maumee River. Hop aboard a riverboat for a narrated sightseeing cruise or book a kayak rental for an active way to take in the scenery. When you’re ready for a break, sit along the riverfront Promenade Park and watch the freighters pass by. Don’t forget to pose with the “TOLEDO” sign for a memorable photo op!

Old West End

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Old West End neighborhood charms visitors with its beautiful 19th and early 20th century homes. This historic district contains over 300 homes built between 1850 and 1930, featuring stunning Queen Anne, Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, and Arts & Crafts styles. It’s fun to simply drive through the neighborhood and admire the well-preserved architecture. For a closer look, book a walking tour or take a self-guided stroll down tree-lined streets like Scottwood Avenue. Here you’ll find century-old mansions built by Toledo’s prominent families, including glass pioneer Edward Libbey’s home which is now a museum. With so many Instagram-worthy homes, it’s easy to spend hours gazing at the charming details that make Old West End a must-visit in Toledo.

Birmingham

Located south of Downtown Toledo, the Birmingham neighborhood mixes commercial and residential areas for a lively vibe. This historic manufacturing hub along the Ottawa River is now an artsy, up-and-coming spot to explore. Check out working glassblowing studios where you can watch artists shape molten glass into works of art. Grab a coffee and peruse the menus of hip eateries and gastropubs lining Broadway Street. Don’t miss the enormous “Welcome to Birmingham” mural painted across the side of a building, one of many colorful murals beautifying the neighborhood. Birmingham is also home to several small parks that provide perfect spots to picnic and relax. Head to Naval Park along the riverfront for nautical-themed play equipment and views of the passing ships. Or, let the kids burn off energy at Smith Park’s imaginative playgrounds. When you’re ready for a ride, hop back on the bus and enjoy easy access to Toledo’s next interesting neighborhood.

Ottawa Hills

Traveling north from Downtown Toledo, you’ll soon find yourself in the affluent village of Ottawa Hills. Ranking among the wealthiest communities in Ohio, this residential area impresses with sprawling mansions on expansive, manicured lawns. The diverse architectural styles range from English Tudor to Colonial Revival to Mid-Century Modern. It’s like taking a tour through pages of Architectural Digest! When you’ve admired all the stately homes, head over to the quaint business district on Indian Road. Grab an ice cream cone and window shop through the boutiques, salons, galleries, and cafes. Let the kids enjoy the playground equipment at Memorial Park or hit some balls at the Ottawa Hills Tennis Club. With its small-town charm just minutes from Downtown Toledo, Ottawa Hills is definitely worth a visit.

East Toledo

For a taste of Polish culture, head over to East Toledo and the historic Birmingham neighborhood. Cleveland Avenue is the heart of the area, where Polish restaurants like Tony Packo’s Cafe serve up kielbasa and pierogi. Look for the hot dog joint made famous by a “M*A*S*H” shout-out from Toledo native Jamie Farr. After lunch, pop into the Polish genealogy center and museum to learn about the immigrants who gave this neighborhood its flair. East Toledo also provides access to outdoor recreation at Pearson Metropark. Located along the scenic Maumee River, this large park features hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, picnic shelters, and picturesque views from the Bluestone Allee. Walk across the pedestrian bridge over the river for a serene glide above the water. For animal lovers, don’t miss a visit to the metropark’s raptor center to see eagles, owls, and hawks up close.

Beverly

Located in central Toledo, the Beverly neighborhood offers family-friendly attractions and scenic parks. At the Birmingham Branch Library, kids can participate in story times, Lego club, and other fun activities. Grownups will appreciate the library’s beautiful Georgian Revival architecture, which makes it look like a colonial mansion. Next, head outside for fresh air and recreation at Wildwood Metropark. Here you’ll find the region’s only all-access playground where kids of all abilities can play together. Trails through meadows and forests are great for birdwatching and spotting wild turkeys. And the farm area allows for up-close visits with farm animals like cows, pigs, and horses. With playgrounds, ponds, and peaceful picnic spots, Wildwood is a great Beverly destination.

Uptown

Venture a bit further from Downtown Toledo and you’ll come across Uptown, an energetic, evolving neighborhood with diverse attractions. On weekdays, check out the Imagination Station science museum which offers hands-on exhibits the whole family will enjoy. Or catch an evening concert under the stars at Hensville Park, home of the minor league Toledo Mud Hens baseball team. When it’s showtime, enjoy comedy, concerts, and performances at the intimate Valentine Theatre. Hungry visitors will have their pick from an eclectic mix of restaurants lining Monroe Street through UpTown. Choose from Japanese hibachi, Lebanese flatbreads, Indian curries, or American fusion dishes. Work off all that delicious food with some bowling, mini golf, or an old-school arcade game at Forrest Avenue’s entertainment district. With options for every taste and age, UpTown hits it out of the park.

Oregon

Just across the river from Toledo, Oregon, Ohio offers scenic waterfront views and historic small-town charm. At the heart of this community is Coontz Corner, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here you’ll find preserved 19th-century commercial buildings housing antique shops, boutiques, and tasting rooms for local wines and craft beer. Oregon’s riverfront is the perfect place to sip your wine flight, picnic in the park, or rent a kayak. Walk along the boardwalk and watch boats glide across the Maumee River. Let the kids expend some energy at the playground before posing by the giant flowerpot sculptures. If you visit in December, don’t miss the charming Dickens Victorian Village where scenes from the classic tale are recreated.

Point Place

Situated along the Maumee River north of Toledo, Point Place gives off relaxed suburban vibes with its waterside parks, mom and pop shops, and historic lighthouse. Charter a fishing boat at Cullen Park to try your luck reeling in walleye and perch. Spread out a beach towel at Friendship Park for swimming and sunbathing on the sandy shores. Stroll down Harris Road to check out the kitschy gift shops and satisfy your sweet tooth at the old-fashioned Coney Island Diner. Of course, you can’t miss getting a photo in front of the Cleveland Views Land Lighthouse, moved here in 1929 to guide river traffic. With its affordable homes and peaceful parks, Point Place is perfect for outdoor fun.

Book a Bus With Us

At Party Bus Toledo, we make it easy to experience the best of the Glass City through convenient bus tours. Our buses ranging from 25 to 56 passenger seating will accommodate groups of all sizes. Each bus includes climate control, comfortable seats and onboard audio/visual systems including WiFi, TV monitors and music. Our knowledgeable, friendly team knows the ins and outs of Toledo and will provide narration during your tour. Contact us today at (419) 324-0783 to rent a charter bus for your Toledo neighborhood tour. We provide service for many occasions, including employee outings, youth group trips, bachelor/bachelorette parties, winery tours, corporate events and more. Let us handle the transportation so you can focus on having fun exploring Toledo’s amazing neighborhoods!