Experience Marion, Ohio’s uniqueness

Family-fun establishments abound in Marion, Ohio. NEW THIS YEAR – the Lincoln Park Family Aquatic Center is more than just a pool that offers dual slides, a lazy river, splash zones and lily pads to fill a sunny day. Have fun putting a round of miniature golf, playing games at the family arcade, roller skating, bowling and more, or choose the new Marion Tallgrass Trail on Holland Road and get out your bikes and ride.

Then add a little history… Marion is touted as the home of Warren G. Harding, the 29th President of the United States. A visit to Marion would not be complete unless you included the Harding Home in your itinerary. The Harding Home was built for Warren G. Harding and Florence Kling Harding during their engagement, and they married there on July 8, 1891. The Hardings lived in the home until 1921. It was from this residence that Harding conducted his famous front porch campaign. Harding was the enthusiastic editor of the Marion Daily Star and Weekly Star, an Ohio Senator, and Ohio’s lieutenant governor.

Next on the list would be The Marion County Historical Society housed in Heritage Hall, a restored U.S. Post Office. It presents permanent and temporary exhibitions focusing on historic collections from Marion County’s early settlements. The museum also archives two galleries of Warren G. Harding Presidential Collections. The Wyandot Popcorn Museum finds its home under a colorful circus tent inside Heritage Hall. It is the largest, most impressive collection of popcorn wagons in the United States. Many wagons date back as far as the turn of the century. Actor Paul Newman’s antique popcorn wagon, which sat in New York City’s Central Park, is a prized item of the collection.

The historic Palace Theatre located in downtown Marion was built in 1928 by renowned theatre architect John Eberson. One of 200 theatres built, it is now one of only 18 remaining. As a showpiece for the Marion community, each year, the Palace presents a wide variety of live performances that appeal to all age groups.

The Edward Huber’s Museum houses the finest steam and gasoline tractors, threshers and road-building equipment. Edward Huber created many of these during the Industrial Revolution. You will be amazed at the scope of the collections.

A vineyard in the heart of Ohio that produces about 10 varieties of fine wines is somewhat unique. Shamrock Vineyard is a family business that bottles nearly 2,500 gallons of wine each year. Enjoy a tasting session as a visitor during the day or make it a special date at a summer Twilight Dinner.

One of the most unique memorials to those who have fallen can be seen at the Marion Veterans Memorial Park. There is a monument established to each of the conflicts in which the U.S. has been involved. That includes the Global War on Terrorism. Just down the street is the majestic World War II memorial.

To complete your stay, you will want to take in the many quaint shops in downtown Marion that feature coffee, gifts, candy, yarn, stained glass, artisan’s wares and more. Hometown food and hospitality can fulfill your hunger when including one of the downtown restaurants after shopping.

Visit www.VisitMarionOhio.com for additional details or links associated with the attractions listed.

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