Explore Toledo without breaking the bank! Check out our comprehensive guide to exciting, affordable activities and hidden treasures in the city that are perfect for students on a budget.
1. Get cultured at the Toledo Museum of Art
Ranked among the top art museums in the U.S., the TMA offers more than exhibits and galleries to explore. Check out the Bowe Family Center for drop-in art activities, pop in for a look at the gift shop or grab a bite to eat at the cafe!
Cost: Free admission and parking
2. Explore the outdoors at Metroparks Toledo
The metropark system offers extensive space and activities to explore, from hiking and biking, to playgrounds, nature centers and free programs for every season across their 19 different metroparks. Fun fact: No matter where you live in town, a local trail is accessible within five miles of every Lucas County resident. Check out the newest Glass City Metropark and Riverwalk for a view of the city from the waterfront, and skate for free on the Ribbon Roller Trail when you bring your own skates.
Cost: Free
3. Check out thousands of species and more at the Toledo Zoo
The Toledo Zoo and Aquarium is a world-class zoo with seasonal fun, like their ”Music Under the Stars” summer concert series and “Lights Before Christmas” in the winter.
Cost: Free on Mondays before noon with proof of Lucas County residence. You will still need to pay for parking.
4. Go on a massive mural hunt
Want to see the largest mural in America? The Glass City River Wall covers 28 grain silos and it is breathtaking. Scout out other murals using the Art Loop, a program put on by The Arts Commission.
Cost: Free
5. Watch a Toledo Mud Hens baseball game
Come watch Toledo’s own minor league baseball team. With three Governors’ Cup wins and a beautiful stadium, you’re sure to have a great time at Fifth Third Field. Located near the riverfront, feel free to get a walk in before the game and sightsee historic downtown Toledo.
Cost: $10-$40, ticket prices vary
6. Visit the Main Library — and not just for books!
The Main Library branch downtown is a nationally recognized, award-winning library. The huge downtown space is open to the public with free events, a makerspace, study areas and programs, and is a great venue for free Wi-Fi, AC and hanging out.
Cost: Free
7. Attend a concert or event at Promenade Park
This beautiful and free public space along the Maumee River is home to events, music, fire pits and views. Party in the Park — Toledo’s free summer concert series — is particularly popular. Check out the event schedule at visittoledo.org.
Cost: Free
8. Learn about sunken ships and more at the National Museum of the Great Lakes
Check out local history at the National Museum of the Great Lakes. Not only can you tour their indoor exhibits, you can also explore the massive ship docked right outside with tourable rooms fully refurbished like you’re walking back in time. Admission is reasonable and they even host a free outdoor fitness series called Wellness by the Boat.
Cost: $14 – $20
9. Get a bouquet or fresh produce at the Farmers’ Market
The Toledo Farmers’ Market is open to the public year-round and offers fresh produce and other wares — including many free samples from vendors. If the farmers’ market is your jam, check out these other locations:
- Outdoor Sylvania Summer Market: Held Tuesdays at Olander Park, late May–August, 5–8 p.m.
- Westgate Farmers’ Market: Runs Wednesdays 2–6 p.m. at the Franklin Park Mall parking lot
- Toledo Night Market: Select Saturdays, June through September, 6-10:30 p.m.
- Perrysburg Farmer’s Market: Thursdays, May-October, 4-8 p.m.
- Cost: Free entry and parking
10. Attend a game night at Flip the Table
This local game cafe hosts regular game nights and tournaments that are free or low-cost to enter, with access to hundreds of games in their library.
Cost: Free to low-cost
11. Play disc golf at Ottawa Park
If you can throw a Frisbee, you can play disc golf! Grab a disc and head over to the course at Ottawa Park — literally right next to campus. It’s free to play and great for getting out with friends. Whether you want the full 19 holes or just a quick round of disc golf, the park has you covered.
Cost: Free
12. Grab a bite from a food truck in Downtown Toledo
Downtown Toledo hosts regular food truck gatherings on Thursdays at Lunch at Levis that bring together some of the city’s most creative local vendors all in one place. Follow their social media for pop-up events!
Cost: Free for most events, cost of food trucks varies
13. Peruse artisan crafts at Handmade Toledo
If you love crafts, local art, live music and a community atmosphere, Handmade Toledo’s semi-annual Maker’s Mart, held in the spring and fall, is worth putting on your calendar. This event celebrates local makers, artists and small businesses, and draws a crowd for a small admission fee. It’s a great place to browse, discover local talent and enjoy the kind of homegrown Toledo experience you won’t find at a chain store or campus event.
Cost: $5 admission
14. Learn about local history at the Firefighters and Police Museums
Check out the Toledo Firefighters Museum or the Toledo Police Museum. They’re both free, open on Saturdays and packed with vintage vehicles, badges and wild stories. The Police Museum is just five minutes from campus!
Cost: Free
15. Go thrifting through town
Need to deck out your dorm? Take a look at Goodwill, Salvation Army or the Toledo Humane Society Thrift Store. Pro-tip: Goodwill’s color-tag system means you can get 50% off if you play your cards right. It’s sustainable, cheap and you’ll find stuff nobody else has.
Cost: Discounts and good deals
Still bored? Catch a movie at AMC or Cinemark on Discount Tuesdays. You can also keep an eye out for occasional free performances by the Toledo Symphony Orchestra, or you can attend a regular show at a discounted student rate. For the full list of events around town, Toledo.com is your new best friend.
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