Wilmington Travel Guide

Things to Do in Wilmington, Ohio

World Equestrian Center – Wilmington is centrally located between Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus. The location allows visitors a chance to explore all the things to do in Wilmington, Ohio, and the surrounding region.

Dining

Visitors to World Equestrian Center – Wilmington can enjoy a variety of on-site dining options. Savor breakfast, lunch or dinner at the International Grille & Café, relax over a meal at the equestrian-inspired Paddock Club, or sip your favorite Starbucks brew at Dark Horse Coffee Co. For a change of scenery, venture into downtown Wilmington to experience local favorites like the historic General Denver restaurant. 

When you have time between events, discover the many things to do in Wilmington and the surrounding region. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Golden Lamb, Ohio’s oldest inn, or an elegant dinner at Tony’s Steakhouse. For a special evening out, dine at Jeff Ruby’s Carlo & Johnny, a Zagat-rated gem in a historic mansion.

Just east of Wilmington, Valley Vineyards in Morrow offers local wine tastings and scenic views. The area also features familiar favorites such as Outback Steakhouse, Buffalo Wild Wings and The Cheesecake Factory to satisfy what your taste buds may crave.

Attractions/Activities

While visiting World Equestrian Center – Wilmington, you’ll find a wealth of activities to enjoy both on-site and in the surrounding area. Browse the Vendor Village for unique finds and unwind at A Bit of Class Salon & Day Spa before venturing beyond the showgrounds to experience the many things to do in Wilmington.

Check the schedule for the Roberts Centre, which hosts a variety of dog shows and other events throughout the year. Golfers can tee off at one of four nearby courses – Majestic Springs Golf Club, Shaker Run Golf Club, Sharon Run Golf Course, and Snow Hill Country Club.

For an adrenaline rush, head to Ozone Zipline Adventure, with treetop courses for all skill levels. Families can enjoy a full day at King’s Island Amusement Park in Mason or cool off at The Beach Waterpark. Miami Valley Gaming & Racing offers year-round gaming, dining and live entertainment.

Nature lovers will appreciate the area’s scenic state parks, including Cowan Lake State Park, Caesar’s Creek State Park and Rocky Fork State Park. History buffs can discover a little about the area’s past at the Carillon Historical Park and the Fort Ancient Archaeological Park. If you are visiting from late August through October, add the Ohio Renaissance Festival to your list of things to do in Wilmington, Ohio.

Shopping

Beyond the unique vendors at the World Equestrian Center – Wilmington, the surrounding region offers a variety of retail experiences. A local favorite is Everyday Chic Boutique, located in historic downtown Wilmington.

The area is also known for its antique shops. Browse the Shoppes at the Old Mill in Wilmington or explore antique shops in nearby Lebanon and Waynesville, Ohio.

Designer shopping is close by, with national retail hubs such as Destination Outlets Jeffersonville, The Greene Town Center Mall and Dayton Mall just a short drive away. Cincinnati’s Kenwood Towne Centre is also within easy reach.

For a more eclectic experience, visit the Caesar’s Creek Flea Market and Trader’s World Market,  two of the largest markets in the area. 

Shopping ranks high on the list of things to do in Wilmington, Ohio. Whether you’re hunting for a treasured antique, new equestrian gear, or pieces to upgrade a wardrobe, the local area offers a little bit of everything.

Entertainment

Entertainment is never far away at World Equestrian Center – Wilmington. From hunter/jumper horse shows to special events, there’s always something happening. After a day on the showgrounds, you’ll find countless ways to explore the many things to do in Wilmington and beyond. 

Catch the latest movie release at the Wilmington Plaza Cinemas, or enjoy a live production at the historic Murphy Theatre. A short drive west takes you to the National Museum of the US Air Force at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton – a must for aviation enthusiasts. While in Dayton, explore the Dayton Art Institute, home to fine art collections and rotating exhibits.

About an hour from World Equestrian Center – Wilmington, Cincinnati offers world-class attractions, including the Cincinnati Art Museum and the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden.

To the north, spend a day at Clifton Mill, touring the historic site, shopping in the gift store and enjoying lunch. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Clinton County History Center, housed in the former home of Brigadier General James W. Denver (for whom Denver, Colorado, was named). This National Register of Historic Places site features museum exhibits, archives, a genealogy library and educational programs.