Marion: Hidden Harbors, Creole and History
By Giles Kennedy
Family and Travel Columnist
Columbus Wired continues their goal to bring you fresh content and ideas for family trips.
As you know; the current state of affairs has many folks stir crazy.
History has many homes in Ohio. No other city has ties to American history more than Marion, Ohio.
What people don't realize outside of the hometown of Warren G. Harding ( Former US President and businessman), the Popcorn Festival and Marion Power Shovel; it is going through a renewal along its main street, Center Street.
From the west side with its historic gem, Marion Union Station to in the downtown; businesses are growing.
A locally sourced and owned specialty market is right across the street from the Marion County Courthouse.
https://www.facebook.com/CenterStreetMarketMarion/
Although I did not get a chance to visit on my sojourn on Saturday. Locals have been raving about the quality, the variety and the great staff.
However, en route to my favorite railroad station; I literally stumbled onto Harding Harbor.
https://www.facebook.com/hardingharborseafood/
The same ownership and chefs at Attaboys Causal Cuisine ( a New Orleans themed bar and grill) gave their knowledge of seafood and quality service an upscale flair.
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063469092764
Both are near the corners of Orchard and Center Streets; across the historical Marion Palace Theater.
https://marionpalace.org/
While dining at Harding Harbor; I had the Shrimp Sampler, Lobster Mac and Cheese and a Dr Pepper.
The staff was extremely attentive, for the meal ($32 total) equals the smiles and vibe. The shrimp sampler had Asian style, beer batter, coconut and Garlic butter shrimp on a large platter.
If you attend a show or event at the Palace; either options are excellent choices.
I have mentioned Marion Union Station itself. Even if not a railroad enthusiast aka railfan; history is abound in this lovingly restored building.
Upon the entrance; Van Java Hibachi is on one side; an restored static display small switcher engine opposite.
https://www.facebook.com/vanjavahibachi/
Mid month through out the year; Marion Union Station hosts the Marion Railfan Society's slide show. The station is also open various times through the week as well as special events.
For more details; check out their Facebook page or articles on our partners at Ohio Valley Rails.
Basic Information
Marion Union Station Association
532 W Center St Marion, Ohio 43302 (740) 383-3768
www.facebook.com/MarionUnionStationAssociation
Information on visiting per their Facebook page
“Marion Union Station (MUS) is open Tuesday and Thursday from 10am-2pm, and by appointment or by chance. (Due to the volunteer nature of our operation, please call ahead to make sure we will be open.)"
There is no admission charge, but donations are gratefully accepted.
“AC Tower is open by appointment and by chance. The HO scale Marion Model Railroad Club is open Sundays from 2-5pm, Thursday from 7-10pm, and by chance. The station grounds are open 365 days a year.” “The entire station complex, except for AC Tower and the caboose, are fully handicapped accessible. Plenty of free parking is available on site. A picnic table is trackside for your dining or train watching pleasure.”
https://ohiovalleyrails.godaddysites.com/f/marion-union-station-legacies-live-on
Again, life is an adventure. Get out there and explore!
