Wooster, Ohio: Getaway Travel Guide

Things to do in downtown Wooster, Ohio

I was invited to Wooster to experience the small city as a travel blogger and instantly my interest was piqued. I wondered, “What are we going to find to do in Wooster?” You see, I grew up just 30-minutes away and Mr. Yoder and I even had our first date at the Wooster cinema! Things in downtown Wooster have definitely improved over the past 20 years, and I’m overjoyed to report that there are plenty of local restaurants, quaint shops, and coffeehouses to keep visitors busy. Here’s my list of the best things to do in Wooster, Ohio.

Where to eat in Wooster:

Downtown Wooster has over 27 restaurants. Say WHAT?? Yes!? Here are a few suggestions.

Broken Rocks Cafe – Freshly baked bread, homemade soups and sandwiches, and a full bar. This is where the locals go for lunch hours and an evening with friends.

Basil Asian Bistro – Delicious Asian cuisine in a modern downtown location. The perfect place for a date night, Basil offers outdoor dining and a full bar.

Spoon Market & Deli -This urban vibe of this cafe makes me think of Nashville, TN not Wooster, OH. They serve all-day breakfast, plus lunch & dinner. The bar is made of reclaimed materials and there’s even a small play area for kids. #allthepraisehands

JAFB -Grab a beer with friends at JAFB. Owner Paul Fryman has been all over the world brewing beer, but in 2011, he decided to come back to his hometown. The atmosphere in this renovated fire station has the character of a German beer hall.

Where to get coffee in Wooster:

Wooster has no shortage of coffee houses. I know where I’d find myself blogging a rainy day away.

Sure House Coffee – Located just steps away from the St. Paul Hotel, Sure House Coffee strives to use as many Fair Trade and local products as possible.

Tulipan Hungarian Bakery and Cafe – Open since 2004, Tulipan offers pastries, croissants, and strudels, along with coffee & tea. I love the small round tables and antique counter – it reminds me of the perfect place to have afternoon desserts with your best friend.

Where to shop in Wooster:

For a small city, Wooster is a shopping mecca. Here are a few of my favorites.

Books In Stock – If perusing the aisles of used and rare books is something you enjoy, you’ll want to spend an afternoon at Books In Stock. A downtown Wooster business for over 30 years, you can’t leave without something new to read.

Blue Spruce Boutique – You might think you stepped into the likes of Anthropologie, but you’re still in downtown Wooster! This boutique contains a curated collection of everything from baby gifts to succulents. I’ll be going back to spend some of my Christmas cash, guaranteed!

Friendtique – This beautiful store is a thrift store benefiting Hospice. Feel good about your purchases while finding vintage items at great prices.

Pick out a gift or take home groceries from Local Roots Market & Cafe – Seasonal and sustainable foods can be found, as well as local crafts. I enjoyed looking at the handmade soaps and lotions.

Popular attractions in Wayne County

Pine Tree Barn

Pine Tree Barn is a Dutch bank barn that is home to a unique home furnishings store and gift shop. The Granary is the restaurant inside the barn that offers fine luncheon cuisine. What began as a Christmas tree farm is now a one-stop favorite destionation for both visitors and locals.

Blue Barn Winery

Blue Barn Winery is a great place to spend a summer evening in Wayne County. I hate to be Captain Obvious, but yes, it’s truly a winery in a blue barn! This unique winery offers live entertainment and wines such as Rumspringa Rose and and Barn Dance Red.

Things to do outdoors in Wooster:

Memorial Park – Formerly Spangler Park, Memorial Park offers over 11 miles of trails, including 1 mile of ADA-compliant trail, perfect for any nature lover. This beautiful place is west of downtown Wooster but feels worlds away from the busyness of this world. Check their event calendar for more information.

Secrest Arboretum – Secrest Arboretum is on the grounds of the OSU – Agricultural college located in Wooster. Our favorite part of this arboretum is the children’s area and embankment slide. This playscape incorporates natural elements to blend nature and fun! If you enjoy roses, they also have a beautiful rose garden. Paved walking trails are available, too.

Both Secrest Arboretum and Memorial Park are completely free to visitors! If you enjoy hiking for leisure, check out my list of the best hiking trails in Northeastern Ohio.

Best Instagram spots in Wooster:

Window art– located on Liberty Street, across from Broken Rocks Cafe. Make sure your wings are straight, unlike mine!

Before I die chalkboard mural – Add something from your Bucket List to this public art. Located on Walnut Street, next to the Local Roots Market.

Wayne County Courthouse – At the northwest corner of the square, the imposing courthouse is similar to Philadelphia city hall.

Memorial Park – Amazing vistas and overlooks are perfect for Instagram.

Where to stay in Wooster? Check out my review of the St Paul Hotel or check current rates.

So that is my list of things to do in downtown Wooster, Ohio! I feel like I’m not even scratching the surface! What’s your favorite?

Looking for things to do nearby? Wayne County is in the heart of Ohio’s Amish Country- check out these things to do with kids in Amish Country, things to do in Millersburg, Ohio; places to eat in Amish Country, and my favorite places to stay in Amish Country.

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I was hosted in Wooster, OH as a guest of the Wayne County CVB. All opinions are my own.