Travel

Weekend getaway: Fremont, Ohio

Fremont is an ideal destination for lovers of Northwest Ohio history. Long before settlers came to the area, Fremont — although it was only named that much later — was an important village for Wyandot Native Americans. Later there was a French and English presence. During the War of 1812, it was a strategic location where greatly outnumbered Americans held off a British force coming up the Sandusky River. Perhaps most notably, Fremont was the home of President Rutherford B. Hayes. A visit to the charming community offers glimpses to the city's past as well as modern amenities.

BY ANNIE LUST

EXPLORE

Get ready for some fun! No matter your interests, Fremont can offer some incredible experiences. If you enjoy a bicycle ride, do not miss the North Coast Inland Trail (which doubles as part of the statewide Buckeye Trail, too). Another option is a leisurely drive to see the Historic Barn Mural Trail that winds through the area. If speed is your thing, watch a race at the Fremont Speedway. In the summer months, visiting Ghoul Runnings.

Kayak Adventures for a river kayak tour guarantees a good time. You can also work with your hands at Pottery Perfection. History buffs will enjoy the Sandusky County Jail Tour.

Of course, the historic Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museum is the biggest draw. The sprawling 25 acre estate includes multiple buildings. While there is a particular emphasis on President Hayes, the museum also focuses on United States history, especially from 1850–1917. It also covers Ohio history, containing books on nearly every county in Ohio among its staggering 90,000 book collection. At Christmas there are fine home tours and a model train exhibit!

EAT & DRINK

Cocoa Beans, where dessert options include homemade chocolates, cupcakes and ice cream, is guaranteed to be a sweet stop.

You will have no trouble finding delicious food in Fremont morning, noon and night. Start with a relaxing morning at Down Thyme Café. You will not find a better lunch than the authentic Mexican fare at El Dorado Taco, a food truck that’s been a local staple for over a decade. Craving something sweet? A visit to Cocoa Beans, where dessert options include homemade chocolates, cupcakes and ice cream, is guaranteed to be a sweet stop. An equally delicious option is El Aguila Bakery, where the pan dulce, empanadas and candy are renowned. Their most praised offering may be tamales, so grab some to-go if you’ve already filled up on sweets. When dinnertime arrives, The Garrison is a lovely option where the French Onion soup is a favorite. Tackle Box 2 is a decidedly more casual experience — you have to visit to truly take in the atmosphere — but the perch (and other fish) is so delicious that patrons drive hours to enjoy the fare.

PRAY

There is no shortage of places to pray in Fremont! St. Ann and St. Joseph Catholic Churches are less than a half mile from one another. While the twinned parishes are both beautiful 19th-century brick buildings, they have unique identities: St. Ann is historically Irish, while St. Joseph is historically German. Their joint mission statement, Grow in Holiness, results in frequent activities. Visit growinholiness.org for parish details. The third Catholic parish in Fremont, Sacred Heart, was founded in 1956 to serve the east side. Visit sacredheart-fremont.org to learn about the many events taking place in this vibrant parish. Finally, Our Lady of the Pines Retreat Center is nestled on 68 acres of evergreen trees. The grounds are open to visitors if you desire a quiet stroll. You can also book a quiet stay in the hermitage or a retreat. For more information, go to pinesretreat.org.

STAY

You will find a variety of traditional hotels in and around Fremont, but there are some alternative options, too. Check out Airbnb, where you can select a historic home, a cottage or other unique accommodations. If you’re visiting in the warm months, you may want to check out the splendid campgrounds nearby, including some located along the river.