Archbold, OH - With the price of gas still soaring, a "staycation" is what many Americans have been enjoying this summer – a fun-filled vacation spent close to home. For people living near Northwest Ohio, Sauder Village is a popular destination for those looking to relax and explore what’s in their own backyard. With a living-history village, a country inn and campground, restaurant, bakery and shopping . . . Sauder Village has everything needed for those looking to plan a memorable get-away yet this summer or fall.

"It seems more and more families are looking for a great day-trip or overnight destination that is close to home," said Jeanette Smith, Director of Sales & Marketing at Sauder Village. "We continue to see many visitors from right here in northwest Ohio, southeast Michigan and northern Indiana visiting our destination. Some come just for the day but many more are opting to make it a multi-day get-away with a stay at our inn or campground. We have packages available that include lodging, meals and admission to the historic village – making Sauder Village an easy and affordable ‘staycation’ destination."

Built in 1976 by Erie Sauder, Historic Sauder Village has continued to grow and change through the years. One thing that has remained constant, however, is the welcoming hospitality. In more than 40 historic homes and shops, costumed guides and working craftsmen welcome guests of all ages and help them experience the past in rural Northwest Ohio.

"If it’s been years since you’ve last visited Historic Sauder Village, you’re in for a real treat," Smith added. "In recent years we’ve added Natives & Newcomers, Little Pioneers Homestead, new exhibits, events and a new blacksmith to the living history experience. The expansion to our Heritage Inn with additional guest rooms, indoor pool and hot tub has helped position Sauder Village as an affordable and fun-filled get-away."

Recognized as Ohio’s largest living history village, the award-winning destination offers plenty for guests to see and do. Throughout the Historic Village, guests can experience life in Ohio through activities and stories shared in the community shops, Native American area, historic homes, farm and garden. Guests of all ages enjoy visiting places like the 1910 Homestead, the District 16 School, the Grist Mill, Barbershop, Depot, Church and Lauber’s General Store.

Throughout the Village guests can also marvel at craftsmen blending skill and creativity in glass, metals, fabric, wood and clay. These talented traditional and contemporary craftsmen not only demonstrate their trade but also offer hand-crafted items available for sale in places like the Spinning Shop, Basket Shop, Pottery Shop and Tiffin River Woodworks.

A favorite stop for parents or grandparents with young children is Little Pioneers Homestead. In this special area guests can really "play pioneer" as they gather eggs, milk the fiberglass cow and pretend to cook at the fireplace in the log cabin. Little Pioneers Homestead offers hands-on fun for all ages!

A visit to Sauder Village would not be complete without a ride on the horse and buggy or the new train, the Erie Express. Other favorite stops include a visit to the Ice Cream Parlor, the Sweet Shoppe and the old-time General Store. The Barn Restaurant offers a unique place to enjoy a home-style meal and guests can always find delicious treats to take home from the Doughbox Bakery. For those looking to extend their stay, overnight accommodations are available at the Heritage Inn or Village Campground. With a new indoor pool, hot tub and game room, guests can relax and enjoy a beautiful destination without driving too far from home!

"We’ve had many people from right here in our local community stay at the Inn and Campground this summer," Smith shared. "Many have planned family reunions or other special gatherings at Sauder Village and have been able to have a top-notch special event right here in their own backyard!"

For visitors looking for a Labor Day Weekend get-away, the Historic Village will be open on Saturday, August 30^th from 10:00-5:00, Sunday the 31^st from 12:00-4:00 and will be open on Monday for the holiday from 10:00-5:00. A special Holiday Brunch is planned at the Barn Restaurant on Labor Day from 9:00-3:00.

The Historic Village will remain open through the end of October. Some of the special events planned yet this fall include Apple Butter Making September 23-27, All Aboard Train Event October 4 & 5, Fall on the Farm October 11 and Woodcarvers’ Show & Sale October 25 & 26. After Labor Day, Historic Sauder Village is open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00-3:30, Saturday from 10:00-5:00 and Sunday from 12:00-4:00. Admission is $12.50 for adults, $6.25 for students and children 5 and under are free. Again this season, all children will receive free admission every Sunday and AAA and senior discounts are available. Heritage Inn package details are available online at www.saudervillage.org or by calling 800.590.9755

Make plans to enjoy a ‘staycation’ at Sauder Village this season with your friends, children, or grandchildren. You’re sure to make lots of special memories as you spend time together experiencing the past at Sauder Village.

###