Break free of the hustle and bustle of everyday life to explore downtown Findlay. This friendly, walkable community offers local dining with delicious food and drink options, unique shopping and opportunities for fun complete with beautifully restored buildings and an abundance of small-town charm.
Whether you’re planning a fun afternoon with the family, an intimate night out with that special someone or a full-blown friends’ night out, the vast array of local restaurants will ensure that your crew is set with food, drinks and good times.
Findlay Brewing Company’s modern taproom offers 20-plus taps pouring everything from signature brews like Brilliant Blonde Ale and Ohio Weather to seasonal specialties. Recruit a friend or two for a blood pumping cardio kickboxing class during Box & Brew, a popular community event the brewery also hosts. After you burn off some calories, reward yourself for a job well done with tasty American bites and, of course, an ice-cold pint. Traveling with the little ones? Enjoy a beer in the taproom or to go at False Chord Brewing, a family-friendly brewery that even provides board games for the kids. Bring your own food or grab a bite to eat from one of the food trucks that are on-site each weekend from April to November.
Travel back to the 1930’s Prohibition Era as you step inside The Bourbon Affair, replete with an old-school wooden bar and vintage styling. Relax with friends in the cozy taproom or on the expansive outdoor patio and savor tasty small plates while sipping cocktails and top-shelf bourbons. If you prefer wine over whiskey, learn what’s behind the bottle or enjoy a glass at The Wine Merchant. This friendly storefront is the perfect gathering place to “talk wine” while sipping a glass of vino, a beer or a cocktail paired perfectly with build-your-own charcuterie boards.
If you’re in need of some caffeine-fueled creativity, gather with friends and family for a Friday open mic night at Coffee Amici. This fine arts coffeehouse in the heart of downtown supports local artists and musicians through a wall of art to observe and live music. Sink your sweet teeth into a freshly made cinnamon roll drizzled with vanilla glaze at The Baker’s Cafe. This coffee shop features a full espresso bar that serves your favorite drinks, as well as seasonal beverages, in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Everything from the pastries to homemade soup is made fresh in their kitchen using the finest ingredients.
Get a sampling of all that Findlay has to offer while you sip and explore the downtown DORA — a designated outdoor refreshment area where visitors are permitted to enjoy their drinks (in a special DORA cup), stroll the streets and pop in to participating locations that display the DORA decal. Some locations include Findlay Brewing Company, The Bourbon Affair, The Baker’s Cafe and The Wine Merchant.
You’ll find plenty of places to play in downtown Findlay. From axes to art to festivals and events, there’s so much to see, do and explore.
Slip on a pair of closed toed shoes and make your way to Axe Ventura for a lesson in axe throwing basics and time to play with friends, family or coworkers for a bit of teambuilding. Celebrating a birthday, anniversary or other special event? A little healthy competition in a fun, safe environment is an ideal activity for group get-togethers!
Art lovers will find it all in Findlay. Start by seeking out the vibrantly colored artworks along the Findlay-Hancock County Mural Trail. Snap a colorful selfie in front of these interactive works of art to share on social media, and don’t forget to tag #artmakesmeconnected. Many of the murals are conveniently located in downtown’s DORA, which allows you to sip and sight-see with a drink in-hand — a great way to enjoy downtown Findlay during the warmer weather.
Support and get inspired by talented local and regional artists at art shows held throughout the year at the Findlay Art League. Submit your own creations for consideration or hone your skills by signing up for a creative drawing or painting class for both children and adults. There’s no need to get your hands dirty at Painters’ Pottery. Seasoned artists and non-creatives at any age will enjoy the hands-on artistic expression of selecting a pre-made piece of pottery to paint. Add your own special touches to a personal keepsake or create a heartfelt gift.
Beyond the many activities you can partake in on a regular basis, you’ll find festive events happening throughout the year, too. Kick off the summer with live music, good food and great times at Boogie on the Block in June, the area’s largest community block party that embraces the season. The streets are flooded with creativity during ArtWalk, a celebration of the local arts scene held a couple of times a year. See and shop the work of chalk artists, jewelry makers, musicians and more! Toast to fall as you raise a stein and savor delicious German fare during Oktoberfest Findlay each September. In addition to authentic food and drink, you’ll find traditional German music, games and an area for kids.
Let’s not forget the shopping! Whether you’re in search of the perfect gift or out to treat yourself, downtown Findlay’s local boutiques and shops make it easy to check everything off your list from fashion to home goods and then some.
The talented team at Burlwick & Co. combine design services and quality home goods to liven up any space to create the space of your dreams. They also offer personalized Burlwick Boxes stuffed with goodies for any occasion — weddings, showers, birthdays — you name it, they can create it.
No ladies’ day out is complete without a stop at River + Road. From fashion pieces and personalized styling services that include a Just For You Box of carefully curated clothing to décor for your home and interior design services, this is a one-stop spot for the discerning shopper.
Find both men’s and women’s clothing for any occasion at The Urban Market, a locally owned fashion boutique. Shop the latest styles and even amplify your accessory game with their selection of jewelry and other trappings.
If the occasion calls for a more personalized piece of jewelry, look no further than RooBarb Studios. This local creator specializes in meaningful, hand-stamped jewelry for the exceptional person (or furry friend) in your life.
