How to get to Toledo

Located on the western tip of Lake Erie in the state of Ohio, Toledo is known as the "Glass City" due to its rich industrial history and cultural heritage. It is a significant transport hub in the region, which travellers can easily reach by choosing the route most convenient for them. You can get to Toledo via direct flights, by train, bus, or by taking advantage of the developed network of motorways.

The fastest way to reach the city is by taking a flight to the local Toledo Express Airport (TOL). This air hub receives flights and is located just a few kilometres from the centre, allowing tourists to reach their destination as quickly as possible.

Many travellers also choose to fly into major airports in neighbouring cities located within a 100 km radius. Convenient alternatives include Detroit (DTT) and the Canadian city of Windsor (YQG), from where you can quickly drive to Toledo by hire car or taxi.

Contrary to outdated information, Toledo has active railway connections and its own Amtrak station — Martin Luther King, Jr. Plaza. The popular Capitol Limited and Lake Shore Limited routes pass through the city, connecting it with Chicago and cities on the East Coast.

This makes train travel a comfortable and scenic option for tourists. If your route does not involve a direct trip, you can travel to the major railway hub in the city of Detroit (about 86 km away), and cover the remaining distance by bus or car.

Bus travel is an affordable and popular way to get to Toledo from neighbouring metropolises. The most sought-after route runs from the city of Detroit: comfortable coaches cover the distance of about 99 km in approximately 2.5 hours.

Regular services allow tourists to plan their schedules flexibly. A bus journey provides an opportunity to enjoy the landscapes of the Midwest while saving on your travel budget.

Travelling by car ensures maximum flexibility and speed of movement. The quickest way to get to Toledo is from the city of Detroit: a journey of about 94 km will take less than an hour (approximately 55 minutes) with light traffic.

There is also a convenient motorway leading from the Canadian city of Windsor. The distance is about 94 km, and the travel time is just over 1 hour, making a taxi or car rental an excellent choice for independent travellers.

To ensure your visit to the "Glass City" is flawless, it is worth considering a few local features in advance. Here is a list of useful recommendations for a comfortable stay in Toledo:

1. Clothing and Essentials. The climate here is humid continental, so dress in layers. In summer, light clothing is suitable, while in winter, a warm windproof jacket is essential, as the winds from Lake Erie can be quite cold.
2. Transport. For maximum freedom of movement around the city and its surroundings, it is recommended to rent a car. Public transport exists, but a car will save you significant time.
3. Finances. The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but having a small amount of cash is useful for tips and minor expenses.
4. Health and Safety. The standard of medical care is high, but services are paid and expensive, so having travel insurance is mandatory. In emergencies, dial 911.
5. Communication. The main language of communication is English. Locals are friendly, and basic knowledge of the language will be sufficient to resolve most questions.
6. Local Etiquette. In the USA, it is customary to leave a tip of 15–20% in restaurants and taxis if service is not included in the bill. Be polite and smile.
7. What to Avoid. Do not leave valuable items in your car in plain sight and try to avoid walking through deserted industrial areas after dark.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to visit the Toledo Museum of Art and its Glass Pavilion — this is a world-class attraction, entry to which is often free of charge.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid unnecessary hassle and focus entirely on exploring the city's sights.