About Van Wert
Exciting news – Van Wert Health Hospital is now an OhioHealth member hospital! Fun fact: the northwestern Ohio town is named after Isaac Van Wart, who helped capture British spy John Andre during the American Revolutionary War. The Ohio Legislature made a typo while recording the name, thereby calling it Van Wert instead of Van Wart!
Van Wert, Ohio is rich with history and offers plenty of fun places to explore with the family.
Outdoor family fun
Smiley Park Children’s Garden and Butterfly House
The garden was recently selected by Horticulture magazine as one of the top 10 Destination Gardens in the United States! Smiley Park is both a beautiful and educational experience for the whole family.
Smiley Park to Richey Road TrailSmiley Park to Richey Road Trail
This trail is nearly 6 miles and takes an average of about 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. Take a stroll or bike ride after you check out the Children’s Garden and Butterfly House at Smiley Park!
Franklin Park and Splash Pad
Franklin Park is the newest addition to the Van Wert Parks System. The spacious grand lawn is surrounded by fun features, including two age-appropriate playgrounds, a skate park, a basketball court, a pickleball court, and a free splash pad!
Rotary Dog Park
“Family” includes pets, too! Check out the Van Wert fenced-in dog park, a safe place to play and exercise with your furry friends.
Reservoir Trails
This 3.5-mile loop trail is the perfect place to get some movement and fresh air—it’s great for bird watching, hiking, running, and walking.
YMCA Camp Clay Aqua Park and Splash Pad
When weather permits, get your splash on at the Van Wert YMCA Camp Clay Aqua Park! The park offers seven inflatable water attractions and three floating splash mats. Head to their website for hours and prices.
Entertainment and more
Van Wert County Fair
When in Van Wert, the Van Wert County Fairgrounds are a must-see! Visit the County Fair August 28 or check out the event calendar for other family-friendly events.
Brumback Library
This library is the perfect spot for kids, bookworms, and history buffs. According to its website, the Brumback Library in Van Wert and its five branches make up the first County Library formed in the United States!
Van Wert Civic Theatre
The Van Wert Civic Theatre has offered live theatre since 1958! Get tickets to a show in their 2022-2023 season, “Every Family Has a Story.”
Van Wert Live
“Dive into live” at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center! Van Wert Live offers a wide variety of shows, including live concerts, musicals, and tributes.
Historic Main Street Van Wert
If you’re looking for a lively spot to explore, Historic Main Street is the place to be! You’ll find events, shopping, and restaurants all within the downtown district.
Looking for more fun, family-friendly activities around Ohio? Check out our Active Ohio series!
