Bowling Green Tour: A Guide to its Historical Downtown District
About the Tour
Explore Bowling Green's fascinating history, starting from its early days as a charming farming village in Northwest Ohio, through its transformation into a thriving oil boomtown, and ultimately becoming the cherished college town we know and love today.
Join Tedd Long, an avid architecture lover, award-winning history author, and seasoned tour guide, on this immersive walking tour as he uncovers the hidden gems and fascinating stories tucked away in the city's historic buildings. From the imposing old jail to the majestic Wood County Courthouse adorned with intricate carvings of snakes and griffons, every corner of Bowling Green holds a piece of its captivating history. We'll meander through Main Street's acclaimed Boomtown Historic District, marveling at the architectural marvels that have stood the test of time.
As we stroll through the heart of downtown Bowling Green, Tedd will share some fascinating tales and answer a few burning questions:
- How did Bowling Green transform into a booming oil town?
- What's the story behind the city's shared name with a town in Kentucky?
- What are the secrets behind the electrification of the courthouse clock and the enigmatic Odd Fellows?
- What tragic events led to the loss of much of the city's commercial district?
This hour-long tour promises a tranquil and enlightening experience for history enthusiasts and architecture lovers alike. We'll explore Bowling Green's charming streets, brimming with incredible shopping, dining, and nightlife, while unraveling the captivating layers of its past. Prepare to see Bowling Green in a new light and walk away with a renewed appreciation for its rich heritage.
Don't miss this opportunity to journey through time and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of picturesque Bowling Green!
Tour Producer
Tedd Long
Hi, I’m Tedd Long—history geek, storyteller, and creator of HolyToledoHistory.com. My passion is uncovering the fascinating, funny, and sometimes jaw-dropping stories that shaped Toledo and the Maumee Valley.
Whether you’ve lived here your whole life or you’re visiting for the first time, you’ll hear things that make you say, “I never knew that!” From forgotten gangster hideouts to remarkable riverfront landmarks, I’ll take you beyond the obvious and reveal the city’s hidden history.
My tours blend rich storytelling, local legends, and insider tips—like the best spots for a cold drink, a great meal, or the perfect photo. Every route is designed so you can explore at your own pace, with VoiceMap-guided stops that bring the past to life right where it happened.
Come walk or drive with me through history. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for this place—and maybe a few stories of your own to share. Let’s go explore!
Preview Location
Location 2
Wood County Courthouse
The Courthouse was built between 1894 and 1896. It’s made of Ohio sandstone and Vermont granite in the H.H. Richardson Romanesque style. The original estimate to build this handsome Hall of... Read More
How VoiceMap Works
Major Landmarks
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Exchange Bank
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The Women’s Club
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The Nearing House
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Clazel Entertainment
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Bowling Green
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Bowling Green State University
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Beckett's Burger Bar & Barrel Room
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BIGGBY COFFEE
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Easy Street Cafe
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Grounds For Thought
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Mr. Spots
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Wood County Courthouse
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Trinity United Methodist Church
Getting There
Route Overview
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Start location440 E Court St, Bowling Green, OH 43402, USA -
Total distance1km -
Final location425 E Court St, Bowling Green, OH 43402, USA -
Distance back to start location30.17m
Directions to Starting Point
The tour begins on the sidewalk in front of Trinity United Methodist Church at the corner of East Court and North Summit Street.
Tips
Places to stop along the way
This route offers plenty of places to stop and grab a snack or hot/cold drink, either to take a break or to have on the go. The eclectic shops (there are several along the route we take) are a special treat and worth a quick diversion.
Best time of day
Any day of the week -- from dusk to dawn. Try to avoid heavier traffic times in the late afternoon.
Precautions
We'll be crossing a number of streets during our tour, so please pay attention to the traffic.
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