This Fish And Shrimp Farm In Ohio Makes An Unexpectedly Awesome Day Trip
By April Dray|Published March 07, 2019
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April Dray
Author
April is the Ohio staff writer for Only in Your State. She is an Ohio native with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. With more than 10 years of writing experience and a background in news reporting for Ohio newspapers, she's published pieces in multiple print and online publications. When she's not on deadline or chasing after her toddler, she's hunting for hidden gems in Ohio or getting lost in a good book.
Here in Ohio, there’s always something new to explore—if you know where to look.
The next time you’re brainstorming ideas for unique day trips the whole family can enjoy, consider visiting Ohio’s largest indoor fish hatchery. Freshwater Farms of Ohio is a one-of-a-kind farm in Urbana where you can observe, feed and even pet fish. The best part? Tours are free and you can even take home some of Ohio’s freshest fish after your visit.
Home to the annual Ohio Fish and Shrimp Festival, this unique farm is a fun day trip destination that families with children will especially enjoy.
You'll find it at 2624 N U.S. Highway 68, Urbana, OH 43078.
Freshwater Farms of Ohio is the state's largest indoor fish hatchery. Some of the fish raised here include rainbow trout, largemouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, channel catfish and more.
Open year-round, you can visit Monday - Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
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The outdoor rainbow trout exhibit is particularly fun for kids, as they can feed the fish themselves. It's neat to watch the fish play and jump for food.
Tours here are self-guided and free, but there are plenty of knowledgable staff members available to answer any questions you might have about farming fish, aquaculture and even pond set-up and maintenance.
You'll definitely want to spend some time at the Sturgeon Petting Zoo. This exhibit features a rare, endangered fish. They're prehistoric and can weigh more than 1,500 lb., grow as long as 20 ft. and can live for more than 100 years.
Note: Be sure to call ahead to make sure the farm is open for touring the day of your visit as renovations are currently underway. For more tour information, click here.
Before you leave, you'll want to visit the fish market and gift shop. The fresh trout fillets, seasoned trout patties and smoked trout spreads are popular options.
You'll even find some local cheese, wine, craft beers and more.
Freshwater Farms of Ohio is located at 2624 N U.S. Highway 68, Urbana, OH 43078. Have you ever been here before? If so, we want to know what your experience was like!
