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 the local area have a variety of dining options ranging from casual fare to fine dining cuisine. While at World Equestrian Center – Wilmington, exhibitors and spectators alike can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at the International Grille & Café, The Paddock Club and Dark Horse Coffee Co. proudly serving Starbucks. Make plans to venture into the town at the end of the show day to dine at General Denver in downtown Wilmington.

When there is a break in the show schedule, plan time to discover the things to do in Wilmington and the surrounding region. Cap off your explorations with a leisurely lunch at The Golden Lamb or an elegant dinner at Tony’s Steakhouse. Experience Jeff Ruby’s Carlo & Johnny, housed in a historic mansion with top ratings by Zagat.

Consider visiting Valley Vineyards in Morrow, just a short drive east of Wilmington. And of course, the surrounding area includes several nationally known eateries such as Outback Steakhouse, Buffalo Wild Wings and Cheesecake Factory to satisfy what your taste buds may crave.

Attractions/Activities

Here in Wilmington, there are plenty of activities to enjoy while visiting World Equestrian Center. Venture beyond the showgrounds to take in any number of fun and interesting options to get to know the region.

Be sure to check the schedule for the Roberts Centre, which hosts a variety of dog shows and other Wilmington, Ohio, events throughout the year.

The surrounding area is home to four courses, where avid golfers can get some time in on the greens. Tee off at Majestic Springs Golf Club, Shaker Run Golf Club, Sharon Run Golf Course or Snow Hill Country Club.

Look no further than Ozone Zipline Adventure to rev up your adrenaline and enjoy some downtime. The course has something for everyone from beginners to the more advanced. Get up over the trees here and enjoy the view. And while in Wilmington, spend a fun day at King’s Island Amusement Park, located a short drive away in Mason, Ohio. And something is happening year-round at the Beach Waterpark.

Get in on all the action at Miami Valley Gaming & Racing from the casino, harness racing along with dining, live entertainment and more.

The area is home to several state parks, including Cowan Lake State Park, Caesar’s Creek State Park and Rocky Fork State Park to allow visitors to get out and take in the fresh air. Or discover a little about the area’s historic past at the Carillon Historical Park and the Fort Ancient Archaeological Park. If you are visiting the area from late August through October, add the Ohio Renaissance Festival to your list of things to do in Wilmington, Ohio.

Shopping

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

Did you know the area is known for its antique shops? Spend time browsing the Shoppes at the Old Mill in Wilmington. You will also enjoy antique shops located in Lebanon, Ohio, and Waynesville, Ohio.

It’s easy to get some designer shopping in while visiting Wilmington, as the area enjoys proximity to national retail hubs, such as the Destination Outlets Jeffersonville, The Greene Town Center Mall and Dayton Mall. Cincinnati’s Kenwood Towne Centre is also within driving distance from World Equestrian Center.

Visit the Caesar’s Creek Flea Market and Trader’s World Market to explore eclectic merchandise. The markets are two of the largest in the area and are good representations of things to do in Wilmington.

Shopping ranks high on the list of things to do in Wilmington, Ohio. Plan a shopping spree to pick up a treasured antique, new equestrian gear, or pieces to upgrade a wardrobe. There is a little bit of everything when it comes to shopping in the local area.

Entertainment

There is an assortment of everyday events in Wilmington, Ohio. Entertainment abounds once the horse show day has concluded. It’s easy to catch the latest movie release on the big screen at the Wilmington Plaza Cinemas. The five-screen movie complex features first-run films.

Enjoy live theatre productions at The Murphy Theatre featuring thespians from the Wilmington College Theatre department. The historic theatre offers stage productions throughout the year, so get your tickets early.

The National Museum of the US Air Force at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base near Dayton, Ohio, is a must stop. The museum features exhibits to showcase the history of the Air Force and contributions to aviation.

While in Dayton, take time to explore the Dayton Art Institute, which first opened in 1919 to exhibit fine art. The institute holds many collections and rotates several others throughout the year.

Also, World Equestrian Center – Wilmington enjoys great proximity to Cincinnati for a trip to the Cincinnati Art Museum, along with the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden. Both venues provide visitors with options of things to do in Wilmington, Ohio, and the surrounding area.

Head north from Wilmington and spend a day at Clifton Mill. Tour how the historic mill runs, shop in the gift store and enjoy lunch.

Chartered in 1948, the Clinton County Historical Society purchased its museum home in 1955. The site is on the National Register of Historic Places as the home of Brigadier General James W. Denver (for whom Denver, Colorado, was named), his wife, Louise Rombach Denver and their family. This History Center is a multifunction facility operated by the Clinton County Historical and Genealogical Societies. The Center includes a public touring museum with exhibits and special displays on Clinton County’s history; genealogy research library; manuscript, photographic and reference archives; textile and artifact repository; conference center for educational programs; and serves as the business office for the History Center. For more information or to plan a visit please visit their website.

And drive a little further north to discover the Columbus Zoo & Aquarium and the Columbus Museum of Art. There is more to explore in Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton and the surrounding area. There are plenty of things to do in Wilmington, Ohio, and many events for you to enjoy!