If you missed Ohio’s Largest Touch-A-Truck this year, don’t worry. Go ahead and mark your calendar for next summer because this is one event my family plans to attend year after year.
This was our second year attending the Touch-A-Truck event at Olentangy Berlin High School in Delaware, Ohio, and it continues to be one of my toddler’s favorite events of the summer. As a mom, I love finding activities that keep both of my kids entertained without breaking the bank, and the fact that this event is completely free makes it even better.
What Makes This Event So Special?
Of course, the trucks, emergency vehicles, construction equipment, and helicopters are the main attraction. Kids have the opportunity to climb inside many of the vehicles, meet the people who operate them, and ask questions along the way. Watching my toddler’s excitement as he explored each vehicle was worth the trip all by itself.
One of the highlights of the day was watching the helicopters land. Afterward, families were able to walk over and actually sit inside them. It’s not something you get to do every day, and it was definitely one of our favorite memories from the event.
It’s More Than Just Trucks
While the vehicles are what bring most families out, there were so many interactive activities that kept my son entertained for hours.
One of his favorite stops was the Little Diggers area, where kids could play in sandboxes filled with construction toys. Honestly, he probably could have stayed there all afternoon. Another favorite was a plumbing company’s booth that featured an interactive water table. It was simple, hands-on, and one of those activities that little kids never seem to get tired of.
Throughout the event there were also plenty of booths with giveaways. My son came home with organic dye-free suckers, stickers, a construction hat, little trinkets, and even a free book from one of the tents. If your kids love collecting goodies, definitely bring an extra bag because you’ll probably leave with more than you expected.
My Mom Tips for Attending
After attending twice now, I’ve learned a few things that made our day much easier. I highly recommend bringing a backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and a portable fan if you’re attending with babies or young children during the summer. There are food, dessert, and coffee trucks available if you’d like to purchase something, but having a few snacks on hand was helpful for us. Don’t worry about restroom breaks. The school stadium has clean bathrooms available, and when we visited, there was no waiting in line.
The event is both stroller and wagon friendly, but I personally found it easier to baby wear my infant while chasing my toddler from truck to truck. It made weaving through the crowds much simpler and kept my hands free. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must because there’s so much to see, and you’ll likely spend several hours exploring everything.
A Wonderful Community Event
One thing I really appreciate about Ohio’s Largest Touch-A-Truck is that it truly feels like a community event. Local businesses, first responders, organizations, and volunteers all come together to create a fun experience for families. There is something to explore around every corner, and even though it attracts a large crowd, there is enough space that it never felt overly crowded while we were there.
Final Thoughts
As a mom, I love finding experiences that create lasting memories without requiring an expensive day out. Ohio’s Largest Touch-A-Truck checks all those boxes. It’s free, interactive, educational, and entertaining enough to keep little ones busy for hours.
We’ll definitely be back for the 4th Annual Touch-A-Truck next summer. If you’re looking for a family-friendly event to add to your summer bucket list, I highly recommend putting this one on your calendar.
Plan Ahead
If you’re planning to attend next year, arrive with comfortable shoes, pack a few snacks and drinks, bring an extra bag for all the freebies, and a fully charged phone for photos. Trust me, you’ll want to capture the excitement on your little one’s face as they climb aboard their favorite vehicles.
Have you been to Ohio’s Largest Touch-A-Truck? I’d love to hear what your kids enjoyed most in the comments! If this will be your first year attending next summer, let me know what your little ones are most excited to see.
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