In Union County, technological history, the history of covered bridges and opportunities to enjoy nature offer different ways to explore. The following examples provide specific points of reference and show how a stay can be shaped around a variety of themes.
Culture and Technological History
The Honda Heritage Center in Marysville features exhibits on Honda’s development and manufacturing presence in the United States. This presence began in Central Ohio in 1979. The center is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; on Wednesdays, hours are extended until 5:00 p.m. Admission is free. Check opening hours before your visit.
The Weller Cabin is a pioneer museum featuring objects from the era of early frontier settlements and educational programs for residents and visitors. The Union County Historical Society Museum offers a different historical perspective: it has been restored to its original condition from the time the Morey family lived there in the early 20th century. The 1905 Brennan automobile is a separate topic in technological history. It is considered the first automobile built in Union County and one of the first automobiles built in the state of Ohio. This distinction is between a county record and an early place in the state’s history.
Covered Bridges and Their Differences
Union County’s seven covered bridges offer a glimpse into the past and provide a picturesque setting for exploring the county’s landscape. Individual bridges can be distinguished by specific features: Buck Run Covered Bridge is currently the longest single-span wooden bridge in Ohio, while Spain Creek Covered Bridge is the smallest covered bridge in Union County. Streng Road Bridge is the only uncovered bridge officially listed as a historic bridge in Ohio.
The bridges also differ in how they connect to trails: Pottersburg Covered Bridge is part of a 1.9-mile paved multi-use trail. The Covered Bridge Trail provides directions to each bridge, allowing visitors to navigate from one bridge to the next. This offers both individual historical features and guidance for exploring several bridges.
Nature, Recreation and Regional Offerings
Glacier Ridge is a 1,032-acre park. A boardwalk runs through the Honda Wetlands Area; a 25-foot observation tower is used to watch waterfowl and other animals. Marysville’s city parks span more than 300 acres. Amenities include a municipal swimming pool, a dog park, a disc golf course, a splash pad and miles of walking trails. People have been fishing at Richwood Lake Park for many years. Together, these examples range from wetlands and wildlife watching to urban recreation and fishing.
The Marysville Art League offers art classes. As dates may change, check the calendar before planning a specific visit. Farmers markets in Union County bring people together with vendors selling fresh, sustainably produced goods; market dates may also change. A trolley tour of the covered bridges combines visits to historic structures with lunch or dinner made with local ingredients, entertainment and craft beverages at local breweries and wineries.
For maps, visitor guides and information about Marysville, the Union County region and the covered bridges, Union Station 1820 provides a starting point. You can organize your trip planning around your preferred interests: technological and regional history, bridges, nature, or offerings related to art and local products.
Discover more destinations: Marysville, Richwood, Milford Center, Plain City, Jackson, Madison, Putnam County and Auglaize County.
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