Which Path Will You Follow This Summer?

On the Marion Tallgrass Trail, enjoy cycling, running or walking on this route that runs through a tallgrass prairie. The former railroad bed is now one of the most popular places in Marion to enjoy the outdoors. Be sure to keep your eyes open for birds, deer, and other wildlife, especially as you pass Community Foundation Lake with its resident beavers. Fishing is permitted in the lake and the 12-mile trail features handicapped access to a fitness trail for all ages.

The Eaterarian Trail is for those who like to find those out-of-the-way eateries with great food, an unassuming atmosphere, and where having a laugh with friends isn’t considered inappropriate. You usually find these places by accident. Stumble upon them while on the road. Now you have this great list to follow in Marion! Enjoy traditional comfort foods, a diner with an Argentinian flair, a great cafe that includes a candy shop, incredible burgers, and the world’s most famous bologna sandwich.

Marion’s Ice Cream Trail is a mix of out-of-the way, small town dairy shops and contemporary frozen treat hangouts and may require several visits to get to them all in one summer. What could be better on a sunny, summer day than traveling the backroads in search of a cool treat in small town Ohio? Visit places like the Waldo Dairy Bar, Past Times Ice Cream in Prospect and the Green Camp Dairy Bar. In the city of Marion, longtime favorites include Fred’s Ice Cream, Mega Moo and The Jer Zee. For something a little edgy, stop in at Pop’d Sensations for the latest sensation — rolled ice cream. And don’t miss Topped Ice Cream & Sweet Treats featuring Marion-made Riverside ice Cream.

If you want your fun in a more compact setting, explore Marion’s Cultural Corridor in the city’s downtown. This cultural hub of our community is where residents and visitors gather to experience a truly local environment of shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. Historic downtowns provide a uniqueness that you as a visitor are looking for. You will find that and more in the Cultural Corridor where you can dine, shop and experience first-class entertainment in a thriving downtown full of locally owned places. Most of our buildings in the corridor are locally owned and those owners are dedicated to seeing the community, its residents and welcome visitors. Marion is a community of talented, dedicated local business owners and community leaders, all looking forward to hosting you on your next getaway. Walk our streets and meet our artists and craftspeople, enjoy creative culinary experiences, be awed by wonderful performances, and relax with friends over a smoothie, gourmet coffee or sweet treat.

For more activities, visit visitmarionohio.com.