Sidney, Ohio

Dec 10, 2023

For years Shelby County, Ohio has enjoyed the distinction of having the highest percentage of manufacturing jobs per capita in the State of Ohio. Today and throughout its history, Shelby County is known as the place that builds things. With this visit, you’ll see for yourself why this region is a hotbed for manufacturing and how that came to be.

Region: Midwest

Length: 3 Days

Suitable for: All ages

Our first day begins with a tour of the Airstream plant, affectionately known as "the Mothership." You’ve seen these iconic travel trailers on the highway, now you can witness first-hand how they’re built with this up-close and personal guided factory tour. From the first stages of assembly through final quality assurance checks, these world-class travel trailers are manufactured exclusively in Jackson Center, Ohio.

After the tour, guests will visit the newly constructed Airstream Heritage Center. Paying tribute to nearly 100 years of business success, the Heritage Center is comprised of vintage Airstream trailer trailers, interactive displays, and Airstream collectibles of every variety. The Airstream Starbucks and Airstream Supply Company are popular on-site stops on the tour. For those craving more, an Airstream Touring Coach plant tour is also available.

Dinner this afternoon will be enjoyed at the nearby Inn Between Tavern, well known for their delicious fried chicken and scrumptious sandwiches. A local favorite, their substantial craft beer tap list have made the Inn a popular dining option for more than 40 years.

After dinner we’ll head to downtown Sidney for a visit to Austeria Wine Boutique. Here we’ll treat ourselves to a curated wine tasting at this newly opened bottle shop that features 400-600 different wines. Wine prices begin at $10-$15 per bottle and include local, national, and international varieties for patrons to sample and purchase.

Our second day begins with a chance to stretch our legs on a guided walking tour of downtown Sidney. Lead by the Shelby County Historical Society, we’ll visit the Farmers and Merchants State Bank, built in 1917 by famed architect Louis Sullivan, mentor to Frank Lloyd Wright. This exquisite architectural masterpiece best known for its "jewel box" design is not to be missed. From there we’ll walk across the street for a peek into the Monumental Building, originally constructed in 1877 to honor Shelby County's fallen Civil War soldiers. Where once Buffalo Bill Cody and Annie Oakley performed, the beautifully renovated Opera House on the upper level is now home to Sidney's Municipal Court.

Lunch today will be at the famous Spot Restaurant where guests have enjoyed mouthwatering meals for more than 110 years. The fresh, homemade pies are out of this world. Other downtown dining options include Murphy's Craftbar + Kitchen and Amelio's Italian Pizza Shop. Murphy's features locally sourced ingredients in their varied menu of tasty dishes along with 48 taps of your favorite adult beverages. Amelio's is best known for their signature brick-oven pizza, fresh salads, and pasta.

After lunch we’ll tour the Wallace Family Learning & Innovation Center where we’ll see and hear the compelling story of how Shelby County emerged from a primitive wilderness 200 years ago to the innovative and vibrant community it is today. A total of six galleries featuring interactive displays and exhibits are exceptionally well done and informative.

Dinner this evening will be served up in downtown Sidney at The Bridge Restaurant or Tavolo Modern Italian Restaurant. The Bridge offers steaks, chops, and incredible seafood in a lovely setting. Tavolo features trendy Italian cuisine, great wine, and delicious craft cocktails. At both locations, guests can dine inside or "Al Fresco" on their beautiful patios.

It's time to get crafty. After a couple days of seeing how it's made in Shelby County, it's now time to make something yourself at Hammer & Stain. This guided, do-it-yourself studio offers guests the opportunity to transform unfinished wood into beautiful and personalized home décor. With your finished souvenir in-hand, the balance of the day can be enjoyed visiting local downtown specialty shops and boutiques or simply relaxing on the beautiful and historic Shelby County court square, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

For itinerary assistance and information about your stay contact Visit Sidney Ohio.

Jeff RaiblePresidentEmailP: 937.492.9122VisitSidneyShelby.com

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