Ohio has a rich history that groups can explore at Sauder Village, located near Archbold about 50 miles west of Toledo.
Created by Eric Sauder, the founder of Sauder Furniture, the 235-acre complex is the state’s largest living history destination and preserves the heritage of Ohio from more than 100 years ago.
“This area used to be known as the ‘Great Black Swamp,’ but some time ago people drained it, and now it is a rich agricultural region,” says Kim Krieger, who runs media relations for Sauder Village.
Groups can peruse the grounds of Sauder Village at their leisure.
“It works well, since they can visit what they are interested in,” Krieger says.
They can watch craftsmen at work, from potters to glassblowers, or explore the 40-plus homes and buildings as costumed staff lead tours and work in the gardens.
The historic working village is open seasonally, typically from late April through October, but the Heritage Inn and Barn Restaurant operate year-round. The restaurant, located within an actual barn, comes complete with hand-hewn timber, and the inn offers 98 guest rooms in addition to meeting and conference spaces.
Annual themed events, such as a six-day quilt show, fill weekends at the village, and a full catering team and group sales staff are available to help plan events, from welcome receptions to multiday experiences.