Wooster: The Hidden Gem of Ohio

• HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yah]
• YesYep
  [yep]
• NoNah
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez / no prob-lem]
• Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [par-dn mee / my bad]
• How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. yoo?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI dunno
  [i dun-no]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check the menu?
  [can eye chek the men-yoo?]
• I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [i dun doh meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
• I would like to pay, pleaseI'll pay now
  [ill pay now]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [im lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [im sik]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna get...
  [i wanna get]
• I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just bro-zing]
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
• That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [thats steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya do better?
  [can ya do bet-ter?]

• What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
• MorningMorning
  [mor-ning]
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
• EveningEvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
• YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
• TodayToday
  [to-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
• 1One
  [wun]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [four]
• 5Five
  [five]
• 6Six
  [six]
• 7Seven
  [seven]
• 8Eight
  [ate]
• 9Nine
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

Wooster was founded in 1808 by John Bever, William Henry, and Joseph Larwill. Named after the American Revolutionary War General David Wooster, the town’s early years were marked by its strategic location in Wayne County, which helped it grow as a regional center for agriculture and trade.

The College of Wooster was established in 1866 by the Presbyterian Church. Known for its strong emphasis on liberal arts education and independent study, the college has played a significant role in shaping the intellectual and cultural landscape of the city. Over the decades, it has grown into a renowned institution, attracting students from across the country and around the world.

Founded in 1851, the Wooster Brush Company is one of the oldest manufacturers of paint applicators in the United States. The company has been a significant employer in the area and has contributed to Wooster's reputation for industry and craftsmanship. Its long history and continued innovation make it a staple of the local economy.

The Wayne County Fair, first held in 1849, is one of the oldest and largest agricultural fairs in the state of Ohio. This event showcases the region’s rich agricultural heritage and includes livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and a variety of entertainment options. The fair is an important cultural event that brings the community together each year.

Established in 1882, the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC) is a key part of The Ohio State University. Located in Wooster, it focuses on research in agriculture, food, and environmental sciences. The OARDC has made significant contributions to agricultural practices and sustainability, reinforcing Wooster’s status as a center for agricultural innovation.

Founded in 1915, the Wooster Symphony Orchestra is one of the oldest continuously performing orchestras in the United States. It was established by Daniel Parmelee, a music professor at The College of Wooster, and has since become a cultural cornerstone of the city, offering a variety of performances that attract music lovers from the region.

Downtown Wooster boasts a charming blend of historic architecture and modern amenities. Many of the buildings date back to the 19th century and have been meticulously preserved. The downtown area is a hub for local businesses, restaurants, and cultural venues, reflecting the city’s rich history while catering to contemporary tastes.

Wooster, Ohio, is conveniently accessible by several modes of transportation. The closest major airport is Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), approximately 60 miles north of Wooster. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use ride-sharing apps to reach Wooster. If you prefer to travel by train, Amtrak services are available in nearby cities like Cleveland or Akron, with further ground transportation needed to reach Wooster. Driving is also a popular option, with Wooster being well-connected by highways, including U.S. Route 30 and State Route 83.

Wooster offers various transportation options for getting around the city. The Wooster Transit System provides affordable and efficient public bus services throughout the city. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For those who prefer to drive, there are multiple car rental agencies in the city. Wooster is bike-friendly, with several bike lanes and trails, making cycling a convenient option for short distances.

The official currency in Wooster, like the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout the city, making it easy to withdraw cash when needed. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Wallet are also commonly accepted.

Wooster is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas and keep personal belongings secure. While Wooster does not have specific high-crime neighborhoods, staying vigilant in unfamiliar areas is always a good practice. The downtown area is well-patrolled and popular among tourists, making it a safe zone for visitors.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Wooster Community Hospital provides comprehensive medical care and has an emergency room for urgent health issues. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are available for over-the-counter medications and minor health concerns. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably. Jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are common. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local religious customs. If visiting a place of worship, dress modestly and be quiet. Public Transport: Do have exact change or a pass for the bus. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or handshake. Don't ignore someone who is greeting you. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and tip around 15-20% at restaurants. Don't leave without tipping, as it is considered rude.

To experience Wooster like a local, visit the downtown area, which features unique shops, eateries, and the historic Wayne County Courthouse. Attend a farmers' market to enjoy fresh local produce and artisanal goods. The Ohio Light Opera, based in Wooster, offers high-quality performances that are a must-see. For outdoor enthusiasts, exploring the Secrest Arboretum and nearby Mohican State Park provides a taste of the local natural beauty.