Bellevue, Ohio
An important railroad center in its early development, Bellevue continues to flourish as an agricultural region noted for its cherries, grains, soy beans and livestock. Seneca Caverns, one of the state's largest natural cave formations, is just south via SR 269 and offers guided tours; phone 419.483.6711 for more information.
Bellevue Area Tourism and Visitors Bureau: Box 63, Bellevue, Ohio 44811; phone 419.483.5359 or 800.562.6978.
Historic Lyme Village is 3 miles east on US 20, then 1.5 miles north to 5487 SR 113E. This complex and visitors center contains restored 19th century buildings, including houses, barns, shops, a mansion, schoolhouse, general store, a log church, post office and several museums. The Groton Postmark Research Center contains the National Museum of the Postmark Collectors Club. Allow 2 hours, 30 minutes minimum. Guided tours of the village are given Tuesday through Sunday 1-5, June through August; Sunday 1-5, in May and September; by appointment the rest of the year. Phone 419.483.4949 or 483.6052.
Mad River and NKP Railroad Society Museum, 2 blocks south of US 20 at 253 Southwest Street, houses railroad memorabilia. Many restored railroad cars, including a Wabash F-7 diesel, are displayed on the grounds. Daily 1-5, Memorial Day through Labor Day; Saturday and Sunday 1-5, May one day before Memorial Day and day after Labor Day through October 31. Phone 419.483.2222.
Sorrowful Mother Shrine is 5.5 miles south of US 20/18 on SR 269. Set in a restful area of some 140 wooded acres, the shrine is noted for its statues, grottos and abundant flowers. Frequent processions, outdoor masses and the shrine chapel provide devotional experiences. Food is available May through October. Daily 9-5; closed Easter, day after Easter, Thanksgiving and December 25 through January 4. Free. Phone 419.483.3435.