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Collingwood Arts Center Toledo

4.7
·336 reviews·Toledo, United States

A historic Toledo gem blending artistic expression with chilling tales of the paranormal, offering a unique cultural experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings for ghost tours

Experience the spooky side

CrowdMedium
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Looking through to the Lake

Collingwood Arts Center Toledo

Best Time

Evenings for ghost tours

Experience the spooky side

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Toledo gem blending artistic expression with chilling tales of the paranormal, offering a unique cultural experience.

4.7
(336 reviews)

"Beautiful building but wouldn’t suggest it for ghost investigation... we did hear unexplainable noises and its awesome for a photo shoot."

Vertical photo
TIP

👻 Book Ghost Tours in Advance

Popular ghost tours often sell out; book your spot early to avoid disappointment.

🎶 Check Event Schedules

See what's happening! Live music, art shows, and competitions add to the vibrant atmosphere.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Paranormal Hotspot

Paranormal Hotspot

Various locations within the center

Experience the chilling history and alleged hauntings of this former convent and college. Ghost tours offer a deep dive into its spectral past.

Instagram+1
Artistic Exhibitions & Studios

Artistic Exhibitions & Studios

Gallery and studio spaces

Discover local talent and diverse art forms in the center's vibrant exhibition and studio areas.

TikTok+1
Historic Theater

Historic Theater

Main theater

Step back in time in the classic theater, perfect for performances and a glimpse into Toledo's cultural heritage.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Ghostly Encounters & Artful Spaces

Prepare for a unique blend of artistic exploration and potential paranormal activity. While known for its exhibition and studio spaces, the Collingwood Arts Center is also a hotspot for ghost tours and investigations. Be mindful of occupied areas during your visit. Instagram+1

Event & Exhibition Awareness

The center hosts a variety of events, from art competitions to live music. Check the schedule before you go to make the most of your visit and avoid potential disruptions from private events or rehearsals. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Evenings for ghost tours
Why
Experience the spooky side
Crowd
Medium
When
During special events
Why
Live music & art competitions
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter exploration
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

East African Café in Downtown Toledo jamii.jikoni is a newly opened café inside the Jefferson Center in downtown Toledo that’s bringing authentic East African flavors, warm vibes, and seriously good coffee to the heart of the city. 📍 Jefferson Center, Downtown Toledo 🥘 East African-inspired eats ☕ Rich, bold coffee + tea 🤝 Community + culture all in one spot #DowntownToledo #toledoohio #EastAf...
@brittanygoldietv
648 likes • 6.9K views

👻 Book Ghost Tours in Advance

Popular ghost tours often sell out; book your spot early to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

🎶 Check Event Schedules

See what's happening! Live music, art shows, and competitions add to the vibrant atmosphere. Instagram+1

📣 FARCAMA 2025 📣- 7 al 12 Octubre en Toledo 🎨✨ ¡El arte hecho feria llega a #Toledo! ✨🎨 Del 7 al 12 de octubre, #FARCAMA2025 @farcama.artesania @fracaman_artesania toma el Paseo de Recaredo para mostrar talento local e internacional. 🛠 Conoce artesanos, asiste a talleres, descubre moda artesanal y vive la cultura con nosotros. 🎶 No te pierdas FARCAMA Suena con @amaraloficial 🌍 Cuenta invitada: M...
@ser0noserr
565 likes • 21K views
Is Toledo Haunted? Chris Bores, author of Haunted Toledo, reveals chilling encounters inside the Collingwood Arts Center and the Lucas County Courthouse.
wtol11toledo
12 likes • 833 views

📸 Great for Photoshoots

The architecture and ambiance make it a fantastic spot for unique photography. Reddit

🤫 Respect Occupied Spaces

Be aware that parts of the center are occupied by tenants; be quiet and respectful. Reddit

I went ghost hunting at one of Ohio’s most haunted places… and the energy was undeniable. The Collingwood Arts Center in Toledo was once a convent, a college, and now—according to many—a hotspot for paranormal activity. This place has stories you feel in your bones. I joined a public ghost hunt to see for myself… and let’s just say, I didn’t leave empty-handed. Would you explore this historic, h...
thenakaylajames
19 likes • 564 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👻 Book Ghost Tours in Advance

Popular ghost tours often sell out; book your spot early to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

🎶 Check Event Schedules

See what's happening! Live music, art shows, and competitions add to the vibrant atmosphere. Instagram+1

📸 Great for Photoshoots

The architecture and ambiance make it a fantastic spot for unique photography. Reddit

🤫 Respect Occupied Spaces

Be aware that parts of the center are occupied by tenants; be quiet and respectful. Reddit

🎭 Classic Theater Experience

Enjoy the vintage charm of the theater, though note there's no AC. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(336 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Collingwood Arts Center for its beautiful historic architecture and vibrant art scene, with many enjoying the unique ghost tour experiences. However, some find the presence of occupied tenant spaces disruptive during investigations, and the lack of air conditioning in the theater is a noted drawback.

"There are tenants, i was unaware of but we did hear unexplainable noises and its awesome for a photo shoot. The tea house that will be restored attached to the property I saw a apparition 👻 and faces. Ymmv"

Liss Edminister

"Beautiful building but wouldn’t suggest it for ghost investigation. We didn’t know it was an occupied site. Portions were supposed to be open only to us but we had a tenet contaminate the whole investigation as he was following us around with a camcorder and making all sorts of noise. Another couple of tenets interrupted us also. Then there’s all the noise from elevator being used by tenets and heat radiators (which of course can’t be helped if you want to be warm). All in all very disappointed. We ended up leaving early."

Denise Helgeson

"I took a haunted tour and had the best time. The guide/ director was a wealth of information on the building's history."

CZ Park

What People Like

Historic architecture
Art exhibitions
Ghost tours

What People Dislike

Tenant disruptions
No AC in theater

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Collingwood Arts Center is located in Toledo, Ohio. Driving is a common method, with parking availability often mentioned in visitor feedback. Public transportation options may also be available; checking local transit routes is recommended. TikTok

Parking information can vary. It's advisable to check the center's official website or recent visitor reviews for the most up-to-date parking details and any associated fees. Reddit

For events, consider arriving early to account for traffic and parking. Ride-sharing services can also be a convenient option, especially for evening events. Instagram

Depending on your starting point in Toledo, walking might be feasible. It's best to use a mapping service to determine the most direct and safe walking route. TikTok

Information on nearby bus stops or other public transit access points can usually be found on the Toledo Area Regional Transit Authority (TARTA) website or by using a transit app. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets for events are typically available for purchase online through the center's website or designated ticketing platforms. Some events may also offer tickets at the door. Instagram+1

Ghost tour ticket prices can vary based on the tour operator and duration. It's recommended to check the specific booking page for current pricing and any available discounts. Instagram+1

The center's hours can vary depending on events and exhibitions. It's best to consult their official website or social media for the most accurate daily operating hours. TikTok

Yes, the center often has open studio hours or exhibition viewing times. Check their schedule for opportunities to explore the art spaces. TikTok+1

Admission fees for exhibitions can differ. Some may be free, while others might require a ticket purchase. Information is usually detailed on their event listings. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The center showcases a diverse range of art, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media from local artists. They also host various art-related events and workshops. TikTok+1

Yes, guided tours are often available, particularly for historical and paranormal aspects of the building. The quality of these tours is frequently praised. InstagramReddit

Expect a spooky and atmospheric experience. Visitors report hearing unexplainable noises and seeing apparitions, though experiences can vary. InstagramReddit

Accessibility information should be confirmed directly with the venue. It's always a good idea to contact them in advance if you have specific accessibility needs. Reddit

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially for capturing the architecture and art. However, flash photography might be restricted during certain exhibitions or performances. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the center itself may not have extensive dining facilities, nearby downtown Toledo offers numerous cafes and restaurants. Some events might include food vendors. TikTok

Policies on outside food and beverages can vary by event. It's best to check the specific event guidelines or contact the venue beforehand. Reddit

The downtown Toledo area, where the center is located, has a growing culinary scene. You can find various options from casual cafes to more formal dining experiences. TikTok

While not explicitly mentioned for the arts center itself, a new East African cafe, Jamii Jikoni, is located nearby in downtown Toledo, offering a taste of local flavors. TikTok

Typically, food and drinks are not allowed in the theater seating area to preserve the space. Check venue-specific policies for details. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The building's historic architecture, grand theater, and art installations offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The exterior also provides a striking backdrop. Reddit

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to inquire with the venue management beforehand, especially if you plan on professional photography. Reddit

During specific events or exhibitions, flash photography might be prohibited to protect artwork or avoid disturbing performances. Always check signage or ask staff. Reddit

Visitors often capture the gothic architecture, the theater's interior, and the art on display. Ghost hunting photography is also a unique niche. InstagramReddit+1

For professional or dedicated photoshoots, it's usually necessary to contact the center in advance to arrange permissions and potentially book space. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Collingwood Arts Center can be a fun outing for families, especially if you catch a performance or an art-related event. Some reviews mention children attending for rehearsals and training, indicating a family-friendly atmosphere for specific activities. TikTokReddit

Consider checking the event calendar for family-oriented shows or workshops. While the ghost tours might be too intense for younger children, the art exhibitions and general exploration of the historic building can be engaging for all ages. Be mindful of the theater's lack of AC during warmer months if attending a performance. Reddit

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

If you're drawn to the supernatural, the Collingwood Arts Center is a must-visit. It's frequently cited as one of Toledo's most haunted locations, with a history steeped in alleged paranormal activity. Instagram+2

Booking a dedicated ghost tour is highly recommended. These tours often provide in-depth historical context and guided investigations, allowing you to experience the eerie atmosphere firsthand. Be prepared for potential encounters and remember that experiences can vary, as noted by visitors. InstagramReddit

🎨 Art Lovers & Creatives

For artists and art enthusiasts, the Collingwood Arts Center offers a stimulating environment. Explore the various exhibition spaces showcasing local talent and discover the studios where creativity thrives. TikTok+1

Keep an eye out for special events like 'Art Mayhem,' a live painting competition, or open mic nights that celebrate local musicians and artists. These events are fantastic opportunities to engage with Toledo's vibrant arts community and perhaps even find inspiration for your own creative pursuits. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Haunted History of Collingwood Arts Center

The Collingwood Arts Center in Toledo is renowned not just for its artistic endeavors but also for its alleged paranormal activity. Originally built as a convent for the Sisters of the Visitation, it later served as a college and now functions as a hub for artists and performers. This rich history has led to numerous tales of unexplained phenomena. Instagram+1

Visitors and paranormal investigators have reported hearing disembodied voices, seeing apparitions, and experiencing cold spots within the building. The former convent and theater spaces are often cited as areas with the most significant spectral activity. Ghost tours are a popular way for visitors to explore these eerie claims and learn about the building's past. InstagramReddit+1

While the paranormal aspect is a significant draw, it's important to remember that the center is also a vibrant working space for artists. Visitors are advised to be respectful of occupied areas and any ongoing artistic activities during their visit, ensuring a harmonious experience for all. Reddit

A Hub for Toledo's Creative Community

Beyond its spectral reputation, the Collingwood Arts Center is a vital cornerstone of Toledo's arts scene. It provides essential studio spaces for local artists, fostering a collaborative environment where creativity can flourish. These studios are often the birthplace of the diverse artworks displayed throughout the center. TikTok+1

The center actively hosts a variety of events designed to showcase and support local talent. This includes art exhibitions featuring paintings, sculptures, and mixed media, as well as live music performances and even competitive art events like 'Art Mayhem.' These gatherings not only provide platforms for artists but also enrich the cultural landscape of Toledo. TikTokInstagram+1

For aspiring artists or those looking to engage with the local art community, the Toledo School for the Arts (TSA) is also mentioned in connection with the area, highlighting Toledo's commitment to nurturing young creative minds. The Collingwood Arts Center plays a crucial role in this ecosystem, offering inspiration, exhibition opportunities, and a space for artistic expression. TikTok

Experiencing the Historic Theater

The theater within the Collingwood Arts Center offers a classic performance venue experience. Its historical architecture provides a unique ambiance, transporting audiences back in time. It's a space where local productions and events come to life, contributing to Toledo's cultural offerings. Reddit

While the atmosphere is often praised, a common point of feedback is the lack of air conditioning. Visitors attending summer performances should be prepared for warmer temperatures. Despite this, the overall experience in the theater is frequently described as enjoyable and memorable, especially for those who appreciate vintage venues. Reddit

This theater serves as a testament to the building's multifaceted history, from its religious and educational past to its current role as a performing arts hub. It's a space that continues to host a variety of events, from rehearsals for young actors to community gatherings. TikTokReddit

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