Oxford Bee Festival
April 18, 2026 1 PM to 8 PM
Find out more!
Save the date for the 2nd Annual Oxford Bee Festival will be Saturday, April 18th, 2026
Oxford, Ohio has a deep connection to beekeeping, as it was once the home to Lorenzo Langstroth, the "Father of Modern Beekeeping." This festival honors that legacy while bringing the community together for a fun-filled day of music, food, art, and of course BEES!
Kick off the morning with the O.A.T.S. & Honey 5K/10K Race along the scenic Oxford Area Trail System, then head into town for a day packed with activities!
Travel is
to our well-being, and more people are finding alternative ways to spend their
time close to home. If staycation is your vibe this year, Oxford, Ohio, has you
covered. The benefits of staycations boost local economies, give you a chance
to discover local attractions and events, and allow extra time to recharge by
reducing the stress of travel planning. Staycations can extend your travel
budget and allow you to seek new adventures with the peace of mind that you’re
close to the comforts of home.
Local
travel can reveal undiscovered opportunities and experiences that you might
have missed. The best part of staycations is that they provide similar effects
to a typical vacation, without airport security and scheduling a rental car
(phew!). Whatever you decide to do on your staycation, take time to reset and
rejuvenate compared to those who’ve traveled afar (tehe).
Why
Oxford? It’s the best of small city living and outdoor adventures. Oxford is a
perfect place to staycation because there is always something happening here.
If you’re stuck trying to find something to do, visit our community calendar and pick out events that fit your
staycation style!
Read more
for the Ultimate Staycation Guide…
Getting
to Know Oxford
Uptown - Oxford Memorial Park
Recognized
by Midwestern Traveler as 2023, 2024, and 2025 “Best Small College Town”!
Oxford experiences a dynamic atmosphere for nine months and hosts nearly 18,000
Miami University students, bringing a unique experience to the area with access
to a range of arts, cultural, and athletic experiences for all ages and
interests. Even after many students depart for the summer, Oxford stays active
with festivals, concerts, community events, and programs.
Outside
the city of Oxford are many generational family farms that add to the beauty of
Oxford’s stunning country sunsets and scenic landscapes. Shop at the Uptown Oxford Farmers Market every Saturday, visit numerous
museums, partake in community events, and enjoy the tranquility of picturesque trails and country sunsets.
Accommodation
Options
Need to
take a break? Seeking new surroundings? Oxford lodging provides the space to
relax and elevate your staycation experience without the stress at home. Plus,
if you forget something, you’re not too far!
Browse through Oxford’s lodging options
available Uptown with easy access to shopping and restaurants, or near campus
for quick access to Miami University attractions and natural beauty. Or, wander
off the beaten path to enjoy the country skies away from the hustle and bustle
of the city to suit your travel needs. If you’re looking for more options,
there are 30+ short-term rentals in Oxford to choose from: homes, condos, and
apartments are perfect for living like a local.
Tips for
booking and finding the best deals
Being a
college town, the best deals sometimes depend on Miami University events. If
you’re planning a staycation in Oxford, check our calendar or Miami University’s
calendar for upcoming events that might affect vacancies. If you’re
having trouble finding lodging to suit your needs, contact us at Enjoy
Oxford with your dates, accommodations, and number of guests. We’ll be happy to
assist you in planning your perfect stay!!
Hotel
Highlights
The Elm Hotel, 75 South Main Street
In the
prime location in the heart of Uptown Oxford. Plan your stay at this local
boutique hotel within walking distance to restaurants, bars, shopping, and
entertainment. Parking is available in the garage across the street.
Unique
Stays
Hueston Woods Lodge, 5201 Lodge Road
If you’re
looking for more of a scenic and rustic vibe, the Hueston Woods Lodge has a
view looking over Acton Lake and rustic architecture. Amenities include an
arcade, restaurant, bar, bonfires, and an indoor/outdoor swimming pool. Nearby,
choose from various recreational activities for any age and activity level.
Oxford
Home Rentals
Airbnb Cozy A-Frame Cottage
Sometimes
we need more privacy or space than a hotel can offer to relax and destress.
Luckily, Oxford has over 50 Airbnb locations to fit right into your staycation
plans. Choose from a house, guest house, apartment, or condo that will feel
like your home away from home.
Browse Lodging
Exploring
Oxford
Historic Landmarks – Black Covered Bridge
Historic
Attractions
Enjoy
Oxford, 14 W Park Pl. Suite C
Explore
Miami University’s beautiful campus and its historical significance to Oxford
with self-guided walking tours of the “University Historic District” and
“Western College for Women Historic District”. Pick up a copy of more
self-guided tours outside our Uptown office: 14 West Park Place, Suite C,
for your convenience.
Anytime
you’re in Oxford, don’t miss out on all there is to discover Uptown. With
various charming shops, cafes, and historical landmarks, uncover the history of
how Oxford has evolved.
Outdoor
Adventures
Hike or
bike along the trails of Hueston Woods State Park, explore
over 17 miles of Miami Natural Area Trails, or stroll through the paved Oxford Area Trails around the vicinity to find local
landmarks and attractions. There are trails all over this Tree City; all you
need to do is pick one that’s best suited for your adventure. The best part…
they’re all free! At the end of the day, top off your outdoor pursuits with a
picnic and a refreshing drink at Uptown Parks.
Visiting
with Pets
Staycation
includes your furry best friend? The Northside Bark and the
NEW Barkham Park are pet-parent spaces with areas for their dogs to run free,
frolic, and jump around with other local canine friends. At this park, you may
find plenty of toys scattered about, tall shaded trees, benches, and a water
refill station to stay hydrated.
Northside
Bark Park: Next to the Northside park is a playground separated by
the park fence for kids to climb and slide. Stop by Pet Wants to grab
a treat for your furry friend, a new toy, or a nice bath!
Barkham
Park: The newest and largest dog park in Oxford is the perfect
play area for the ball chasers, frisbee enthusiasts, and high-energy dogs. Have
more energy to burn? The Oxford Area Trails path
borders this dog park’s fence. Cool down in the shaded paved trails to see
historic landmarks, a boardwalk to Four Mile Creek, wildlife, and more.
“OXDOG” Oxford Dog Owners Group
“Audrey’s Aire” (small dog play area)
Download
a copy of our “Hound Around Town” guide for more ways to have fun with
your pets in Oxford!
Cultural
Experiences
The city
of Oxford embraces culture and the arts; there are unique experiences to be had
at the Oxford Community
Arts Center. Plan for presale tickets and registration in advance for
upcoming live performances, art exhibits, and creative workshops.
Miami
University provides a wide range of cultural experiences. Our first
recommendation is to tour the Richard and Carole Cocks Art Museum, with
various exhibitions and collections to explore. Check their website for special
hours and upcoming events during your stay. For more on-campus cultural events,
check Miami University’s
calendar.
Local
Dining
Patterson’s Cafe is known
as one of the best breakfast spots in town. You’ll find the perfect way to
start your day here. Whatever dish you decide on, don’t forget to try a glass
of their freshly squeezed orange juice. Enjoy indoors or outdoors with shaded
tables. Our favorite picks from Patterson’s Cafe include the pancakes,
breakfast quesadilla, and the Monte Cristo sandwich with the Highlander Grogg
coffee.
For
lunch, stop in Bodega to
experience a perfected menu established in 1989, choose from their famous daily
specials with a freshly made side, and enjoy outside just across the brick
streets at Uptown Park, or dine inside for a charming experience. Try out our
Bodega favorites, The Dinah, Papa D, or get lucky and try the daily special,
lobster bisque and grilled cheese combo.
We
recommend that any visitor try a special dining spot one night. Sorriso Osteria
+ Bar is also located Uptown to enjoy house-made Italian-inspired cuisine that
will make you come back for more. This restaurant has a cozy, dim-lit vibe for
an intimate evening out. Our favorite dishes include the chicken alfredo,
meatballs, and affogato for dessert. Casual dining? Order a pizza to share with
friends and take leftovers next door to Oxford Pub (O’Pub) for more
after-dinner drinks. Tip: Visit O’Pub on Tuesday nights for weekly trivia.
New
Restaurants
Looking
for something new to try? Visit these restaurants that serve the Oxford
community!
● Saigon Oi
● Tavo
Mediterranean Grill
● Chop
Bento
● Chocolate
Euphoria
● El
Potrero
● OxVegas
Chicken
● Little
India
●
Tous les Jours
Nightlife
Mac &
Joe’s, 21 E High St
Oxford
offers DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) in the historical Uptown
district to enjoy an adult beverage while embracing the outdoors! Be sure to
check out our DORA guide to find
all our participating vendors and perimeters.
One of
our participating DORA vendors is also one of our oldest running bars in
Oxford. Since 1946, Mac & Joe’s
(celebrating 80 years!) has been known for their famous wings, Mac Bites, and
chargrilled steakburgers. Grab a seat and bask in the memories that have passed
through these walls while you enjoy the game.
Bagel & Deli has been
a staple of Oxford since 1975! Each year, more bagel creations are added to the
list. If you haven’t had the B&D experience, do not leave town until you
have tried their delicious steamed bagels. Order for pick up, or delivery, the
classic favorites like The Bloody Mary, Burt Reynolds, The Miami, and The Messy
Katie.
Tip: Grab
a DORA drink to sit at the park benches, enjoy the
festivities, and explore the Uptown Historic District. Local
taxi rides are available through Fedora Transportation, Uber,
and Lyft.
Relaxation
and Wellness
During
your staycation, make time for a rejuvenating experience that leaves you
feeling relaxed, recharged, and ready to take on new challenges.
Luna Blu is a
great place to treat yourself to a nice spa day. Schedule an appointment for
massages and facials. Then complete your self-care checklist with a mani and
pedi. Take it up a notch, and book yourself an appointment for a fresh new
look!
Elevate
your self-care further with daily yoga and visit Oxford Community Yoga. Sign up for their gentle yoga
in the morning, and settle down with an evening flow class for a relaxing
reset. Want to make more of an impact? Check out their events that give back to
the community.
Tips to
de-stress your staycation
● Create a
Relaxing Environment: Set the mood by creating a calm and
peaceful atmosphere. Light scented candles, play soothing music, and declutter
your space to promote a clear mind.
● Digital
Detox: Take a break from screens and digital devices. Limit the
use of smartphones, laptops, and TVs to enable mindfulness.
● Read a
Book: Choose a genre that interests you from the Lane Public
Library, or grab one out of your collection to exercise your
imagination in a cozy, quiet spot.
● Creativity:
Expressing yourself through art can have significant destressing benefits.
Allowing your imagination to flow freely is an excellent way to relieve stress
and find inner peace. We recommend signing up for a class at the Oxford Community
Arts Center or visiting You’re Fired.
● Quality
Time and Memories: Plan fun activities together, share meals, and enjoy
meaningful conversations to strengthen your relationships and memories to
share.
●
Limit Responsibilities: Many
times, we get caught up in what needs to be done; however, during your
staycation, try to keep in mind that other people can be delegated to those
tasks. If it can wait, don’t worry, those tasks will be waiting for you when
your staycation is over… you’re supposed to be enjoying time for yourself,
remember?
Family-Friendly
Activities
● Visit the
Oxford Farmer’s Market Uptown on Saturday from 9am-to
noon
● Plan a
picnic at the Oxford Community Park.
● Check out
the wildlife at Hueston Woods Nature Center
● Paint
your own pottery at You’re Fired
● Discover
the Limper Geology Museum
● Go ice
skating at Goggin Ice Arena
● Dust off
your scavenger-hunting skills with Geocaching in
Oxford, Ohio! If you haven’t already, choose a team name and find all of the
geocaches in the area. Don’t forget a pen and loot!
● Take a
stroll through Oxford Area Trails; you never know what you’ll discover
on this paved trail surrounding the city.
●
Play Pokémon Go! Oxford is a hub for Pokémon Go gyms
and stops. Open the app and create a route for your next adventure. Join the
groups on Discord to make new friends, trade, and battle together.
Local
Shops & Boutiques
Fulfill
your retail therapy needs at Oxford’s various local shops and boutiques for any
occasion! Oxford is known for our boutiques like The Apple Tree and Juniper. Visit
more classic shops like DuBois Book Store, which
opened its second location at Miami University in 1945, selling Miami
University gear that has evolved for almost 80 years! Wild Berry started
in Oxford and is world famous for its incense, but also for their ability to
find unique and interesting specialty items.
Alternatively,
if you’re more eco-conscious or thrift-savvy, you must visit Uptown Threads, which focuses on upcycled and
sustainable alternatives (15% off if you shop with a locally purchased
beverage). Want more in your thrifting experience? Travel back in time at the
local antique store, The Bird House, for
unique finds.
Retail
therapy does have its benefits, and Oxford is packed with small businesses to
discover your new favorite treasures!
Events
& Festivals
Upcoming
Spring & Summer Events
Upcoming
Festivals
Travel
Tip: During the school year, it’s best to book your staycation in advance,
especially during university events like Homecoming, Alumni, and Family
Weekends. Summertime is slow in Oxford, but ideal for a relaxing stay-cay.
Oxford
Wine & Craft Beer Festival
- Oxford
Wine & Craft Beer Festival ( May 30th, 2026)
- Hueston
Woods Arts & Crafts Fair (June 13th & 14th)
- Freedom
Festival Independence Day (July 2nd, 2026)
- Red
Brick Friday (July 17 /Aug 7 /Aug 28, 2026)
- Uptown
Music Festival (Thursdays, June-Aug, 2026)
- Red Brick Reunion Porsche Car
Show (Aug 15, 2026)
Make the
Most of your Staycation
- Free
& Low-Cost Activities: Most of Oxford’s events
are free or low-cost. The best way to find these activities will be on our
calendar.
Besides events, most museums have free admission, local parks are free,
and many nearby outdoor recreation activities are another fun way to stay
within budget and create memorable experiences.
- Parking
in Oxford: When attending an event or
activity, it’s important to consider the cost of parking. Payment for
parking meters Uptown can be made with coins, a card, or with the
ParkMobile app (know your license plate). For more info, view our parking guide.
- Home
Cooking: Save money on dining out by cooking meals at home or
packing picnic lunches for outdoor adventures. Shop for groceries wisely,
and consider trying new recipes to make your staycation meals more
exciting.
- Moon Co-op
- Butterfield Farms
(Facebook)
- Oxford Farmers Market
(Saturdays from 9-noon)
- Use
Discount Websites and Apps: Take advantage of discount
websites, apps, weekly specials, or loyalty programs to save on
accommodation, dining, and activities. Look for coupons, promo codes, and
special offers that can help stretch your budget further.
- Utilize Public Transportation or
Carpooling: If you need transportation
during your staycation, consider using public transportation via the free
bus service (BCTRA) or
by carpooling with friends and family to save on fuel and parking
expenses.
Choosing
Oxford, Ohio, for vacation has its perks! You’ll find a range of fun,
entertainment, and relaxation for any interests without traveling far. Whether
you want to indulge in outdoor recreation, spend quality time with loved ones
in town, or focus on self-care to kick back and relax, Oxford has got you
covered. Find peace to unwind with ease here, thanks to a diverse range of
offerings.
If you
have any questions, email us at info@enjoyoxford.org, and
we’ll do our best to make this small town your new favorite staycation
destination!
Read our
“Cozy Fall Guide to Oxford“ for
the best fall foliage spots, picturesque scenery, spooky fun, pumpkin patches,
and more!
