Fall in Love with Putnam County: 10 Reasons to Visit (and Stay!)

Okay, let’s be real, Putnam County isn’t just some county in Northwest Ohio – it’s THE place to be! As a realtor, I can give you 10 reasons why the community love here is unmatched. We’ve got charming towns, the friendliest people you’ll ever meet, and more things to do than you can shake a stick at (not that you’d want to shake sticks at anyone, of course!). If you’re looking for a realtor in Putnam County, Ohio, I can confirm that this community has a unique love for its residents, and I can give you 10 reasons why.
As a realtor in Columbus Grove, I’m pretty passionate about this place. I want you to love it as much as I do! So, whether you’re a family looking for a fun day out, a couple trying to plan a date night, or just someone who loves exploring new places, Putnam County has something for you. Here are 10 spots that’ll make you fall head over heels:
1. Family Fun in Columbus Grove:
Okay, first up – my hometown (since 2010 at least!) Start your day with a coffee and pastry at Ooh La Latte. It’s got that cozy vibe where you can just relax and sip your latte. Then, head over to Hall Avenue Park. It’s got a playground for the kids, pickleball courts for the adults (or adventurous kids!), and a walking path if you just want to stroll and chat. And don’t forget about the Columbus Grove Pool! It’s one of the oldest pools in Ohio, and it’s the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. Wrap things up with ice cream at The Dairy Whip (because why not?) and then grab some groceries or a pre-made dinner at Farmhouse Market. Boom – a whole day sorted!

2. Brews, Bites, and Good Times:
If you’re a craft beer fan, you’re in luck! Putnam County has some awesome breweries and taprooms. Ottawa Brewing Company is a must-visit. They’ve got a huge selection of local beers, and delicious food! If you’re up for a little drive, check out 1820 BrewWerks in Kalida. It’s in this beautifully restored old building – super cool! And don’t forget about Sycamore Lake Winery in Columbus Grove. They’ve got local wines, live music, and a gorgeous setting. If you want the best lowkey bar in the county tho – look no further than Miller’s Lunch.

3. Small Town Vibes, Big Adventures:
Downtown Ottawa is like stepping back in time. They’ve got these amazing historic buildings and the cutest shops. You can spend hours browsing the boutiques and antique stores, and there are tons of great places to eat. If you’re more of an outdoorsy type, Putnam County has you covered too. We’ve got the Blanchard River for kayaking and canoeing with Putnam Paddle, plus tons of hiking and biking trails. And for a blast from the past, check out Grove Skateland in Columbus Grove. It’s old-school roller skating fun for the whole family!

4. Shop ‘Til You Drop!
Get your shopping fix in Putnam County! We’ve got unique shops and boutiques all over the place. Downtown Ottawa, Signature Look Boutique, Beckman Jewelers, Always Blessed to start. Columbus Grove we have Fast Trax, Beads by Beth, CMK Apparel and so many more. Over in Kalida we have LenAnn Apparel, Small Town Sisters Boutique that are great for browsing, and you never know what treasures you’ll find in the smaller towns. Plus, you’ll be supporting local small businesses, which is always a good thing!

5. Foodie Heaven:
Hungry? Putnam County’s got you covered. We’ve got everything from classic American dishes to food from all over the world. Halker’s Bar & Grill in Columbus Grove has amazing burgers, and Aguirre’s Filling Station for great pizza & Wings! And if you’re really craving pizza, Pizzeria has locations all over the county.

6. Sweet Treats Galore:
Got a sweet tooth? Head over to The Scoop on Main in Glandorf for ice cream, coffee, and pastries. Or grab a milkshake or sweet treat at Kneuven Creamery in Gilboa. And if you’re looking for something a little different, try the delicious baked goods from Busy Mom’s Kitchen food truck.

7. Fun for Everyone:
Whether you’re into live music, theater, bowling, or sports, Putnam County has something for you. The Ottawa Thursdays at the Rex has shows and events, and the Ottawa Bowling Alley is a classic spot for a night out with friends. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try axe throwing at the Hatchet Hole in Ottawa.

8. Community Spirit:
Putnam County is all about community. We’ve got festivals and events happening all year round. Keep an eye out for the Chocolate Walk in Columbus Grove – it’s a delicious way to support local businesses! We’ve also got the June Jubilee in CG, the St. Anthony Festival, and the Putnam County Fair. There’s always something going on!

9. A+ Education:
Looking for a place with great schools? Putnam County has you covered! Our schools are top-notch, with dedicated teachers and staff who are passionate about helping students succeed. In fact, Columbus Grove Schools recently received a National Blue Ribbon Award for 2024, which is a HUGE honor! We’re proud to offer a high-quality education for kids of all ages.

10. Bookworms and Storytime:
Putnam County has some amazing libraries that are more than just books! They’re community hubs where you can find resources, attend events, and connect with other people. Whether you’re looking for the latest bestseller, need a quiet place to study, or want to join a book club, our libraries have something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Come see what Putnam County is all about! And if you’re thinking about making a move, I’d love to help you find the perfect place to call home.
Give me a shout – let’s chat!
