Visitor Information
Oberlin has it all - the quiet life of a small town, the services of a large city, and the music and art of the world. It has been called "the most cosmopolitan small town in America".
The town was founded in 1833, at the same time as Oberlin College, one of the nation's leading liberal arts colleges. The community has a rich and diverse history, representing many different cultures and interests. The charm of Oberlin can be found in the many tree-lined streets, in a historic downtown with unique shops and a variety of restaurants, and most importantly, in its people. A bike path winds through the community, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes.
Tappan Square, with its bandstand and beautiful green lawns, is host to many summer evening concerts, a Juneteenth Festival, and numerous community events.
Easily accessible by five major highways, Oberlin is just a half hour from Cleveland, and only twenty minutes from the shores of Lake Erie. Whether you choose to explore the region or simply stay at home, there is no mistaking that Oberlin is a wonderful place to live, work, and play.
Tappan Square
Tappan Square, with its unique bandstand and its lush, expansive green lawns, is a picturesque host to many summer evening concerts, the Juneteenth Festival, and numerous community events.
History
The City of Oberlin was founded in 1833, at the same time as Oberlin College, one of the nation's leading liberal arts colleges.
The City of Oberlin has a rich and diverse history, representing a spectrum of cultures and interests. Until about 1861, Oberlin was a crucial stop on the Underground Railroad for fugitive slaves who passed through on their way to Canada.
Visitors to the community are encouraged to explore the many points of historic interest. Explore our historic downtown on your own or take a guided tour with the Oberlin Heritage Center/ O.H.I.O., which also offers tours of an old schoolhouse and two of Oberlin's many historic homes.
Historic Attractions
Frank Lloyd Wright House: Oberlin College now owns this prairie style home designed by the famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Tours are offered by the college on alternate Sundays.
Martin Luther King Park: East Vine St. - Three monuments now stand in MLK Park. One was erected in honor of the three Oberlin men killed as a result of John Brown's raid on Harper's Ferry. Another pays tribute to the Wellington-Oberlin group who rescued a man from slave catchers. The third is a unique monument to Martin Luther King, Jr.
Westwood Cemetery: Morgan St.- A shaded, historic cemetery, Westwood is the resting place of former slaves, famous abolitionists, and many who, through their actions, contributed to Oberlin's reputation as a place of change. In addition, a monument in the middle of the cemetery pays honor to runaway slaves who died on the underground railroad.
Oberlin Heritage Center: West Vine St.- The Oberlin Heritage center cares for and gives tours of three historic homes: The Monroe House, which in 1866 was built as the home of Giles. W. Shurtleff (a civil war general and important abolitionist), the Little Red Schoolhouse, which built in 1836, was Oberlin's first schoolhouse, and the Jewett House, built in 1884, which was home to an early Oberlin chemistry professor.
Wright Park Soldiers Monument: Built in 1943, this monument includes an 1871 civil war monument.
Underground Railroad Monument: The history of Oberlin involvement as a key stop on the Underground Railroad is evident throughout the community. The Underground Railroad monument, located at the corner of West College an South Professor St., is evidence of that history. It is an excellent conclusion to any day in Oberlin.
For more historically-oriented Oberlin activities and locations visit theOberlin Heritage Center.
Arts and Cultural Attractions
In addition to its fascinating history, Oberlin is rich in its artistic and cultural offerings. Visit some of Oberlin's downtown arts galleries and explore Oberlin's divers offering of stores. Wander through the renowned Allen Memorial Art Museum or see a play at one of the many performance venues to get a taste of Oberlin's vibrant arts culture.
Family Attractions
Offering many diverse stores, events, attractions, and activities suitable for all ages, Oberlin is a great place to spend a day with family.
Ben Franklin's and Mind Fair Books: The classic general store, combined with a new and used bookstore, offers a classic variety of goods mixed with unusual toys and games, puzzles, fabric and yarn, a custom frame shop, office and art supplies, and thousands on new and used books.
Splash Zone: A great place to escape the heat or cold and play in the water with family and friends.
Tappan Square: Adjacent to both the downtown and the college, Tappan Square offers 14 acres of grass and shade. Come play soccer on the expansive grass, have a picnic in the wagon wheel pavilion, or play a game in the grass as you enjoy the community atmosphere in a natural setting.
Lodging
Oberlin Inn: Offering warm country inn ambiance, delightful accommodations, outstanding culinary skills, and comprehensive conference services, the Oberlin Inn is located directly in downtown Oberlin.
Oberlin Inn
7 N. Main Street
Oberlin, Ohio 44074
440/775-1111
Website: http://www.oberlininn.com/
Ivy Tree Inn & Garden: Enjoy the at home charm of this quaint bed & breakfast located just footsteps away from Oberlin College and downtown Oberlin.
Ivy Tree Inn & Garden
195 S. Professor Street
Oberlin, Ohio 44074
440/774-4510
Shurtleff Cottage: This beautifully restored home contains a rich history, large rooms with private baths, and all of the modern conveniences you've come to expect!
Shurtleff Cottage
46 Morgan Street
Oberlin, OH. 44074
440/774-8033
Hallauer House Bed & Breakfast: Built in 1830, this Greek Revival home in a country setting is located 2 1/2 miles south of Oberlin. Visit their website at
Hallauer House
14945 Hallauer Road
Oberlin, OH. 44074
440/774-3400
Website: http://www.hallauerhousebnb.com/
Restaurants & Shopping
Oberlin is a unique shopping destination, with a wide variety of stores all offered within walking distance of the scenic downtown. Stroll through Oberlin's historic downtown and experience the diversity of Oberlin. Shops include antiques, a true five and dime, an army navy store, a working gallery and shop, unique fashions for women and much more.
You are sure to find your favorite style of cuisine in Oberlin. From homemade pizza offered at Lorenzo?s to the convenience of Subway or the elegance of the dining room at the Oberlin Inn, Oberlin hosts an eclectic collection of eateries.
Directions
Directions from Columbus: I-71 North to Ashland Exit; east on U.S. Route 250 to Ohio Route 89; north on 89 to Ohio Route 58; north on 58 to Oberlin. d
Directions from Cleveland: I-80 to Exit 9; Ohio Route 10 West to Oberlin or I-90 West to Route 58 South. (Approximately 6 miles)
Directions from Toledo: East on the Ohio Turnpike; Exit 7A Baumhart Road; Go South on Baumhart Road to Route 511; Left on 511 to Route 58; Right on Route 58