Wildwood Preserve Metropark photo
ParkOhio, US

Wildwood Preserve Metropark

Wildwood Preserve Metropark is a cherished Toledo oasis blending natural beauty with historical elegance.

About

Wildwood Preserve Metropark is a cherished Toledo oasis blending natural beauty with historical elegance. As the most visited Metropark in the area, this 493-acre preserve offers a unique blend of diverse natural landscapes, including woodlands, ravines, and prairies, alongside the grandeur of the historic Stranahan estate. It serves as a vital natural and cultural resource, drawing millions of visitors annually.

The park's main attraction is the magnificent Georgian colonial-style Manor House, once the residence of the Stranahan family, which is open for free tours and events. Surrounding the Manor House are the historically significant Ellen Biddle Shipman Gardens, renowned for their design. Visitors can explore an extensive network of trails, such as the paved All-Purpose Trail perfect for cycling and walking, or the natural Floodplain and Upland Woods Trails. The park is also a haven for wildlife, especially birds, with over 170 species documented, and offers an indoor "Window on Wildlife" at the Metz Visitor Center for comfortable viewing of feeder birds and other animals.

Wildwood Preserve is more than just a park; it's a testament to community spirit and environmental preservation, offering educational opportunities and recreational activities year-round. Its combination of natural beauty, rich history, and well-maintained facilities makes it a memorable destination for relaxation, exploration, and connecting with both nature and the past. Wondering what that bird or insect is? Find out on your visit using the Snappit nature app.

buffs (Manor House tours, gardens, Oak Grove Schoolhouse). * Hikers and cyclists (extensive network of paved and natural trails). * Nature photographers (scenic landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, historic architecture).

What to do here

Walk, hike, cycle, birdwatch, photograph nature and architecture, picnic, explore the playgrounds, and learn about local history and ecology through various programs.

Seasonal info

Spring: Wildflowers in bloom, active ground-nesting birds like rufous-sided towhees and American woodcock.

Summer: Prairie wildflowers in full display, warm weather for extensive trail use, active wildlife.

Fall: Peak fall foliage, cooler temperatures for hiking.

Winter: Ideal for birdwatching from the warm Window on Wildlife (pine siskins, purple finches, red-breasted nuthatches), cross-country skiing, and sledding. Maple sugaring events may occur.

Accessibility

Wildwood Preserve offers fixed restrooms and handicap access. The All-Purpose Trail is paved and handicap-accessible, as are portions of the Floodplain Trail and the Lusk/Mewborn Boardwalk. The Window on Wildlife is also handicap accessible and heated.

Don't miss

1

The Manor House and Gardens

Tour the historic Stranahan family mansion and stroll through the meticulously restored Ellen Biddle Shipman Garden.

2

Window on Wildlife

An indoor viewing area at the Metz Visitor Center, offering comfortable observation of birds and small mammals at feeding stations.

3

Extensive Trail System

Explore over 9 miles of trails, including paved multi-use paths, natural woodland trails, and boardwalks through floodplains.

4

Oak Grove Schoolhouse

A historic one-room schoolhouse from 1897, offering a glimpse into the past.

Wildlife you might spot

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Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Bring a trail map

With an extensive network of trails, having a map (available online or at the visitor center) will help you navigate and plan your route effectively.

Wear appropriate footwear

Trails range from paved to natural dirt paths and boardwalks, so comfortable and sturdy shoes are recommended.

Pack bug spray

Especially if venturing into the woodland or floodplain trails during warmer months, bug spray will enhance your outdoor experience.

Visit the Metz Visitor Center

Home to the "Window on Wildlife" and often a good source for current park information, programs, and trail conditions.

Bring binoculars

For birdwatching, especially at the "Window on Wildlife" or along the trails, binoculars will greatly enhance your viewing experience.

Check for seasonal events

The park hosts a variety of events, from historical tours at the Manor House to nature programs and seasonal activities like maple sugaring, which can enrich your visit.

Frequently asked questions

Visitors to Wildwood Preserve Metropark can explore historic buildings like the Manor House and the Oak Grove Schoolhouse, stroll through the Ellen Biddle Shipman Garden, and enjoy over 9 miles of trails suitable for hiking, walking, and cycling. The park also offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, including an indoor "Window on Wildlife" for comfortable viewing, and features playgrounds for children.
Yes, Wildwood Preserve Metropark offers several accessibility features. It has fixed restrooms, handicap access, and a paved All-Purpose Trail that is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Portions of the Floodplain Trail, including the Lusk/Mewborn boardwalk, are also partially accessible. Additionally, the "Window on Wildlife" at the Metz Visitor Center is handicap accessible and heated, providing an inclusive experience for observing nature.
The Wildwood Manor House is a 32,000-square-foot Georgian colonial mansion built between 1936 and 1938 for Robert A. Stranahan Sr., co-founder of the Champion Spark Plug Company. It was the centerpiece of the Stranahan family's estate. The house and its surrounding grounds were preserved from development in the 1970s by a community-led effort and became part of the Metroparks system, now serving as a public landmark that hosts tours and events, showcasing Toledo's rich history.

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