Nestled along the Maumee river is the charming city of Waterville. It occupies 5.28 square miles and has a population of just over 5,500. It was platted in the 1830s by settler John Pray and later became a stop on the Miami and Erie Canal. Pray constructed the historic Federal-style Columbian House in 1828. The property was expanded in the late 1830s and housed an inn, the local jail, the post office, and a third floor ballroom. The current owners of the Columbian House are working on a virtual museum and building a park on the empty lot across the street. Follow Columbian House Revisted for updates.
In 1908, the Roche de Boeuf interurban electric train line was built to allow faster travel between Waterville and Toledo. Rail cars travelled across the bridge at speeds reaching almost 100 mph. The operation ceased in the 1930s. Despite the beauty of the Roman aqueduct structure, the bridge has long been considered a safety hazard due to its level of deterioration. It was sold at auction in June 2021.
Waterville is in the Anthony Wayne Local School District, which also serves Monclova Township, Whitehouse, and parts of Providence Township, Swanton Township, and Middleton Township. You can find Anthony Wayne school report cards here.
The city's quaint downtown has been a commercial hub for nearly two centuries. Today it's bustling with beloved, locally-owned businesses. Next time you're in the area, try out these downtown spots:
dale's diner | 34 n 3rd st
Dale's Diner reopened under new owners in June of this year. The restaurant first opened in 2011 and quickly became a Waterville favorite. Follow Dale's Diner on Facebook to see the menu and for more information.
shawn's irish tavern | 105 s 3rd st
Shawn's has three locations in Toledo, Waterville, and Sylvania. The Waterville restaurant became their second location, opening in 2009. It offers an expansive menu and an inviting atmosphere. Browse Shawn's menu on their website.
cocina de carlos | 205 farnsworth rd
Following the success of his Perrysburg restaurant, owner Carlos Mendez opened his second location in Waterville. Cocina de Carlos serves authentic Mexican cuisine and the margaritas are made from 100% agave tequila. They also offer vegan and gluten-free options. Learn more on the restaurant's website.
pisanello's pizza waterville | 57 s third st
Pisanello's in Waterville has been in business for nearly two decades. The original restaurant opened in Bowling Green in 1964 and there are now 11 locations across Northwest Ohio and Michigan. View the Waterville Facebook page here.
chowders 'n moor | 312 south st
For 19 years, Chowders 'N Moor has been a Waterville staple. The restaurant offers seafood, steak, chicken, burgers, salads, specialty sandwiches, and award-winning homemade soups. View their website for more details.
mad anthony's | 21 n 3rd st
If you're looking for a laid-back place to grab drinks or play pool, Mad Anthony's won't disappoint. They're open daily until 1:00 AM Sunday through Thursday and until 2:30 AM Friday and Saturday. Follow them on Facebook for updates.
garden smiles by carruth studio | 1178 farnsworth rd
George Carruth's unique garden art can be purchased at the studio's gift shop. Carruth is one of the most collected sculptors in the country. Stop by the store or purchase the one-of-a-kind pieces here.
clayful art | 12 n 3rd st
Clayful Art is a pottery studio that hosts parties and social events. Reservations are required and can be easily booked on the website. They have a variety of piece's that guests can create starting at $15.
3rd street blooms | 122 mechanic st
This family-owned florist can help you pick the perfect flowers for any occasion. Owner Wendy Gray has been in the industry for over 30 years. In addition to floral arrangements, the store sells a variety of local art, jewelry, treats, and other gift items. Browse their selection here.
buffalo rock brewing company | 345 anthony wayne trail
This new brewery is located just outside of the downtown area on the Anthony Wayne Trail. The owners transformed an old, vacant car wash and opened for business last month. Follow Buffalo Rock Brewing Company on Facebook to keep up with tap selections, live music lineups, and food truck events.
If you're looking for family fun or a nature exploration, Waterville has plenty of parks, trails, and kayaking opportunities:
farnsworth metropark | 8505 s river rd
Website here.
stitt park | 1101 farnsworth rd
roche de boeuf | 570 s river rd
bend view metropark | 10613 s river rd
waterworks park | 255 s river rd
baer park | 426 n fifth st
conrad park | 808 michigan ave
More info on parks here.
Waterville is certainly a wonderful place to call home! Dig deeper into the history by visiting the Waterville Historical Society's website. If you're considering a move, you can browse homes for sale in Waterville here.