Road trip to Wooster, Ohio

A few weeks back my friend Kelly and I opted to take a winter guided hike at Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve, located southwest of Wooster in Wayne County, Ohio. And while we were there we made a day of it, exploring all the different things that the Wooster area has to offer. Wooster, Ohio, is a charming city known for its rich history, vibrant community, and scenic surroundings. If you’re planning a visit or road trip to Wooster, Ohio, here are some highlights and helpful information for visitors.

About Wooster, Ohio

Wooster is renowned for its lively downtown area, featuring a variety of eclectic shops, diverse restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city is home to The College of Wooster, a liberal arts institution known for its emphasis on independent study programs.

Upon arrival, visitors can explore several attractions. Read on to find out my suggestions for a road trip to Wooster.

Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve

My friend Kelly and I started our day at Johnson Woods State Nature Preserve, a protected 200-acre area with a fascinating history and a wealth of natural beauty. The preserve is known for its old-growth forests, some of which have been largely undisturbed by human activity for centuries. Its significance dates back to the early conservation efforts in Ohio, and it was designated as a state nature preserve in 1971 to protect its rare and diverse ecosystems. The area has long been a haven for native species, with its mixture of wetlands, woodlands, and marshes offering an ideal habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals. The woods themselves are home to towering trees like oak and sugar maple, and the forest floor is carpeted with ferns, wildflowers, and other native plants, making it an important site for botanical and ecological studies.

Winter Hiking at Johnson Woods

In winter, Johnson Woods transforms into a peaceful and serene landscape. The trails, which are accessible year-round, offer a quiet, reflective experience as the thick canopy of leaves from the warmer months gives way to bare trees, exposing the delicate structures of the forest. When we visited the ground was covered in snow, creating a beautiful, wintery scene that made the area feel even more remote, serene and tranquil. We even spotted some wildlife- there were lots of active deer running around in the woods. Birds, including woodpeckers and other species that thrive in the winter months can be seen flitting among the trees. Animal tracks in the snow may reveal signs of deer, foxes, and other forest creatures. We traveled to Johnson Woods for a hike offered by the Ohio Department of Natural Areas & Preserves. We really enjoyed our guided walk, with the ranger pointing out all kinds of things about the trees, vegetation and animals that I would not have known about otherwise.

With no amenities such as restrooms or heated shelters, winter visitors should come prepared with warm clothing, sturdy footwear, and the necessary supplies for an outdoor adventure. The paths throughout the nature preserve are boardwalks however, and it is pretty flat. The preserve remains open from dawn to dusk throughout the winter.

J.M. Smucker Co. Store

After our mid-morning hike we decided to warm up with a little shopping. And nearby we found the J.M. Smucker Co. Store! The store, located in Orrville, Ohio, is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the famous Smucker products and wants to explore the brand’s history. Situated near the Smucker company’s headquarters, the store offers a wide variety of their beloved products, including jams, jellies, peanut butter, syrups, baking mixes, and more. Visitors can find not only their classic favorites but also exclusive and seasonal items that may not be available elsewhere. The store is a great spot to pick up gifts, local treats, or stocking up on pantry essentials.

History of J.M. Smucker Co.

The J.M. Smucker Company was founded in 1897 by Jeremiah Mortimer Smucker in Orrville, Ohio, starting with homemade apple butter. Smucker’s focus on high-quality fruit preserves and its then unique approach of selling in jars helped the company grow, and by the mid-20th century, the company expanded into jams, jellies, and other fruit products. The company opened a company store in Orrville, selling products at a discount to employees and local customers, which became a popular spot for visitors.

Over the decades, Smucker’s expanded through acquisitions, including brands like Crisco, Folgers, and Jif, allowing the company to diversify and become a major player in the food industry. Today, Smucker produces a wide range of products, including its famous fruit spreads, peanut butter, coffee, dog and cat treats, Dunkin’ Donuts, Hostess products and more! It really was a charming little store and we found some good deals!

In addition to the extensive product selection, the J.M Smucker Company Store also features a small museum where visitors can learn about the history of the company. The exhibits offer a glimpse into the company’s humble beginnings and its journey to becoming a household name. It really helps visitors enjoy a little ‘taste’ of Ohio’s history. Make sure to stop at the J.M. Smucker company store when on your road trip to Wooster; it is open Monday through Saturday 9-5:30pm.

Explore Downtown Wooster

After our hike at Johnson Woods and doing some shopping at the Smucker Co. store we headed into downtown Wooster. And what a charming town! Wooster’s historic downtown area is full of local shops, boutiques, and cafes. The Book Loft, a local independent bookstore, offers a wide selection of books in a cozy, old-fashioned setting. If you’re into antiques, the Wayne County Antiques Mall is a great spot to explore. Wooster’s downtown dining scene includes both casual eateries and upscale restaurants. The City Square Steakhouse is a popular choice for steak and seafood, while Bistro on the Square offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a focus on locally-sourced ingredients. For coffee lovers, The Daily Grind Coffee House & Cafe offers locally roasted coffee and a comfortable place to unwind.

If visiting during the warmer months, the Wooster Farmers’ Market is a must-see, held every Saturday morning from 8-noon in May-October. The market is a great place to find fresh produce, baked goods, local crafts, and artisan items. The market also offers live music, making it a lively and social experience for visitors

The College of Wooster & Wooster Art Museum

While in Wooster, you may want to take a self-guided tour of the local school. The College of Wooster is a nationally recognized liberal arts college with a beautiful campus. It’s in the heart of the city, and its beautiful, 240-acre campus is a must-see for visitors of Wooster. Founded in 1866, the school played a key role in the city’s development, and its presence continues to shape the culture of the area. The architecture is a mix of classic collegiate buildings and modern facilities. Visitors can explore the picturesque college grounds, take a walk around the well-maintained quad, and enjoy the architecture. It also boasts the Wooster Art Museum, a museum located on campus that features rotating exhibits and collections, offering a wonderful experience for art enthusiasts.

Ohio Light Opera

Another option while in Wooster is to take in some theatre and music. The Ohio Light Opera is an exceptional theater company that produces and performs light operas, operettas, and musicals. Founded in 1979, it has become one of the premier light opera companies in the United States. The company performs in the Sharon & Michael L. Olin Theater on the College of Wooster campus, providing an intimate setting for high-quality productions. Check out their website to see what they offer.

Wayne County Historical Society & Museum

If, like me, you’re interested in history, consider check out the Wayne County Historical Society & Museum during your road trip to Wooster. Learn about the city’s history and Wayne County’s role in Ohio’s development through exhibits showcasing artifacts, local stories, and historical items. Exhibits cover a wide range of topics, including Native American history, local industries, and the role Wooster played during the Civil War. One of the highlights is the War History Exhibit, which showcases artifacts from Wooster’s military past. There are several historical sites that visitors can check out there, including a firehouse and general store. Check out their website for more information.

Wooster Memorial Park

The park offers picnic areas, sports facilities like tennis courts and ball fields, and a playground, making it a great spot for families. The pond in the park is a favorite for fishing. For wildlife enthusiasts, Wooster Memorial Park provides a great setting for birdwatching, as well as an opportunity to observe other animals in their natural habitat. The park is free to visit, and there is plenty of parking available.

Hiking at Memorial Park

Kelly and I were in the mood for some more hiking, and the park is home to several trails that cater to different levels of hikers. The Killbuck Trail, a 1.5-mile route, is one of the most popular and accessible trails. This relatively flat trail follows the path of Killbuck Creek and offers lovely views of the creek and surrounding woodlands, making it a great option for walking, jogging, or a casual hike. For a more challenging hike, visitors can explore the Woodland Trail, which is approximately 2 miles long and takes hikers through more rugged terrain in the park’s wooded areas. With slight elevation changes and uneven ground, this trail provides a more immersive experience for those seeking a bit of adventure.

In addition to these main trails, there are shorter loops and connecting paths that allow visitors to create their own custom routes depending on the time and distance they prefer. The trails are well-marked and accessible, providing opportunities to explore different sections of the park, including scenic overlooks, ponds, and peaceful creek-side spots.

Secrest Arboretum

Another great spot for nature lovers- Secrest Arboretum is a beautiful 100-acre public garden in Wooster, Ohio. The arboretum offers walking trails, themed gardens, and a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. It’s a great spot for a relaxing afternoon.

Secrest Arboretum is located on the campus of the Ohio State University’s Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC) in Wooster. Established in 1909 by Edmund Secrest, Ohio’s first state forester, the arboretum serves as a resource for horticultural education, research, and outreach. The arboretum features over 2,000 native and introduced species of trees, shrubs, and other plants. There is also a ‘Garden of Roses of Legend and Romance’, showcasing approximately 500 rose varieties. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including paved walking paths, unique benches, and a natural play area known as the “Fortress,” which features a large slide built into a hillside.

The arboretum is also a popular spot for picnics, with numerous tables and benches situated throughout the gardens. Secrest Arboretum is open daily without charge and welcomes an estimated 10,000 visitors each year. Before your visit, check the arboretum’s website for the latest information on events and plant collections.

Local Breweries and Wineries

A road trip to Wooster (or anywhere really) wouldn’t be complete in my opinion without checking out some of the local watering holes (does that term apply to wineries? Let’s go with it). Wooster had lots of great options- and there are more that I want to check out next time I’m in the area. Here were some of my favorites:

Minglewood Distillery Co. & The Ice Plant

Minglewood Distillery is housed in a charming historic building that was originally an ice manufacturing facility. The building, which dates back over a century, has been carefully renovated to preserve its historic character (like displaying some of the tools used when it was an ice house) while creating a modern space for visitors to enjoy. The tour takes visitors into the back of the historic building to learn about and see how the spirits are made. And of course there were lots of tastings involved. Our tour was really informative (just as good as the Kentucky Bourbon Trail tours I’ve been on), our guide super friendly, and the drinks were great! Kelly and I both bought some to bring home. The tours are $15 on Friday and Saturday. Reserve your tickets here.

The distillery is open Thursday through Saturday 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Thursdays and Fridays, and 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Saturdays. Minglewood also hosts events throughout the year, such as live music, cocktail nights, and special seasonal promotions. Check the their website or social media for updates on any changes to their hours or special events.

JAFB Brewery

The brewery has a spacious taproom where visitors can enjoy a pint of their favorite brew. I really enjoyed the Raspberry Ale that was suggested to me by the friendly bartender. JAFB Brewery also offers beer flights, so you can sample a variety of their offerings and find the perfect brew for your tastes. The taproom has a cozy and laid-back vibe, with seating both indoors and outdoors, providing a comfortable setting for enjoying a drink, playing games, or simply unwinding. There was also a food truck there when we visited, and they have a rotating schedule of food trucks, which can be found on their website. They also often have live music. JAFB Brewery is open 2-10 Monday- Thursday, 12-11pm Friday & Saturday and 1-8 Sunday.

Lincoln Way Winery

Now, on to the grapes! There are a few wineries near Wooster, but during our roadtrip we decided to check out Lincoln Way Winery. The winery offers a variety of handcrafted wines made from locally grown grapes, with a focus on creating a diverse range of options to suit different tastes. Whether you’re a fan of dry reds, crisp whites, or sweet wines, Lincoln Way Winery has something for everyone. The winery also produces seasonal, limited-edition wines, slushies, mulled wine and ciders!

The tasting room at Lincoln Way Winery provides a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The friendly staff is knowledgeable about the wines and happy to guide visitors through tastings, helping them find their perfect wine. The winery often hosts events such as live music (the night we were there it got packed by people enjoying the local band), wine-pairing dinners, and community gatherings. With its beautiful setting, variety of wines, and lively events, Lincoln Way Winery offers a delightful experience for both locals and visitors. There is no food, but there was a food truck, and they allowed us to bring in food (Kelly made the best picnic!). Lincoln Way Winery in Wooster, Ohio, is open Thursday through Saturday from 1-9pm

There you have a great itinerary for a road trip to Wooster. I was pleasantly surprised by all Wooster had to offer, and I am looking forward to going back and checking out more places. Until that update, check out these road trips from Columbus or other trip ideas in Ohio. Have you been to Wooster and have some tips or stories to share? Or have any suggestions for other road trips in Ohio? I’d love to hear them, please leave me a comment below. Until next time!

-Catching Katie