10 Fun Things To Do Near Canton, Ohio (Stark County)
If you’re planning a trip to
Canton, Ohio in
Stark County, you might already know it as the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But there’s a lot more to do here than just football.
Whether you’re coming for a weekend getaway, a family road trip, or you’re local and looking for new ideas, this list of
10 things to do in and around Canton will help you plan a memorable visit.
1. Dive Into Football History at the Pro Football Hall of Fame
For sports fans, this is the big one. The
Pro Football Hall of Fame is Canton’s crown jewel and a must-see attraction.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Historic jerseys, helmets, and Super Bowl rings
- Interactive exhibits where you can test your “combine” skills
- The famous Hall of Fame Gallery with bronze busts of NFL legends
Plan to spend at least half a day here, especially if you love football. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the stories behind the players, coaches, and teams are surprisingly inspiring.
Tip: If you’re visiting in early August, check if your dates line up with the
Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival and game. The whole city feels like one big tailgate party.
2. Stroll Through History in Downtown Canton’s Arts District
Just a short drive from the Hall of Fame,
Downtown Canton has a growing
Arts District that’s fun to explore during the day or evening.
You’ll find:
- Colorful murals and public art on almost every block
- Art galleries and studios featuring local artists
- Cozy coffee shops, bars, and restaurants
On the
First Friday of every month, the district comes alive with live music, food trucks, art walks, and family-friendly activities. If you like to mix local culture with your travel, this is the perfect place to wander, grab a bite, and people‑watch.
3. Explore McKinley Presidential Library & Museum
Love history? Head over to the
William McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, one of Canton’s most unique attractions.
This isn’t a dry, all-text museum. It’s surprisingly hands-on and fun:
- A science center with interactive exhibits for kids
- A “Street of Shops” that shows what life looked like in the late 1800s
- Displays on President McKinley and local history
Right outside, you’ll see the impressive
McKinley National Memorial, a tall domed monument sitting at the top of a long staircase. Climb the steps if you’re up for a quick workout and enjoy the view.
Family note: If you’re traveling with kids, this is one of the best things to do in Canton, Ohio. It’s educational, but it doesn’t feel like homework.
4. Relax in Nature at Sippo Lake Park
When you’re ready for some fresh air, make your way to
Sippo Lake Park in Stark County. It’s just a short drive from Canton and offers a peaceful break from the city.
At Sippo Lake you can:
- Rent kayaks or paddle the calm water
- Walk or bike the trails around the lake
- Bring a picnic and enjoy the lake views
There’s also an
Exploration Gateway on site, which houses a library and nature center. On a rainy day, this is a nice indoor spot to learn about local wildlife and plants.
If you like simple, outdoor things to do near Canton, this park should be on your list.
5. Step Back in Time at the Canton Classic Car Museum
Car lovers, this one’s for you. The
Canton Classic Car Museum is a fun, slightly quirky stop not far from downtown.
Inside, you’ll see:
- Beautifully restored classic cars from different eras
- Vintage signs and gas pumps
- Old toys, memorabilia, and Americana
Even if you’re not a big gearhead, the nostalgia factor here is huge. You might spot a car that looks just like the one your parents or grandparents drove.
Travel tip: This is an easy add‑on if you’re already exploring downtown Canton or headed to the McKinley Memorial.
6. Visit Gervasi Vineyard: A Little Taste of Tuscany in Ohio
If you want a more relaxed, grown‑up outing, drive over to
Gervasi Vineyard, just a short hop from Canton in Stark County.
The property is beautiful, with:
- Rolling vineyards and a peaceful lake
- Several on-site restaurants and a bistro
- Wine tastings and tours
You can sit outside with a glass of wine, share a pizza, and enjoy the view. In the evening, there’s often live music or special events.
Couples note: Looking for romantic things to do near Canton, Ohio? A date night at Gervasi Vineyard is hard to beat.
7. Hike the Trails and Spot Wildlife at Sippo or Stark Parks
Stark County has a strong park system, and if you like to stay active while you travel, you’ll have plenty of options.
Beyond Sippo Lake, check out:
- Stark Parks hiking and biking trails that wind through woods, fields, and along old canal paths
- Sections of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which runs through the county
- Opportunities to spot deer, birds, and other wildlife
Many of these trails are flat and easy, perfect for a casual walk. If you like taking photos, you’ll find great spots year‑round, from spring wildflowers to fall colors.
8. Explore Hartville: Shops, Flea Market, and Comfort Food
Just north of Canton in Stark County is
Hartville, a small town that has turned into a fun day‑trip destination.
Don’t miss:
- Hartville Kitchen – famous for homestyle meals and giant slices of pie
- Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market – hundreds of vendors selling everything from antiques to fresh produce
- Hartville Hardware – one of the largest hardware stores in the country, surprisingly fun to wander
If you enjoy hunting for deals, browsing local goods, and grabbing great comfort food, you could easily spend a full day here.
Budget tip: The flea market can be a great place to pick up affordable souvenirs and gifts.
9. Discover the Canton Museum of Art
If you’re looking for indoor things to do in Canton, Ohio, especially on a cold or rainy day, the
Canton Museum of Art is a solid choice.
What you’ll find:
- Changing exhibits featuring American art, ceramics, and more
- Works by regional and national artists
- Classes and workshops if you plan ahead
The museum isn’t overwhelming in size, which makes it easy to enjoy without feeling rushed. It pairs nicely with a walk around downtown or a meal at a nearby restaurant.
10. Catch a Show, Concert, or Game in Canton
Canton and Stark County offer plenty of entertainment beyond museums and parks. Depending on when you visit, you might:
- See a concert or show at local venues and theaters in downtown Canton
- Catch a minor league or college sports game nearby
- Enjoy seasonal festivals, like holiday light displays or fall events
Before your trip, take a few minutes to check local event calendars for
Canton, Ohio things to do this weekend. You might find a festival, outdoor concert, or special event that lines up perfectly with your visit.
Planning Your Canton, Ohio Trip
When you put all of this together, it’s easy to see that
Canton and Stark County offer a mix of:
- Sports history
- Local art and culture
- Outdoor fun
- Great food and wine
You can build a weekend itinerary that starts with the
Pro Football Hall of Fame, adds a stroll through the
Arts District, mixes in a visit to
Gervasi Vineyard, and finishes with hiking, museums, and a side trip to
Hartville.
If you’re road‑tripping through Ohio, Canton makes a great stop between bigger cities like Cleveland and Columbus.
Share Your Canton Experience
Have you been to Canton, Ohio or anywhere in Stark County?
- What was your favorite attraction?
- Did you discover any hidden gems not on this list?
I’d love to hear your stories and tips.
Drop a comment below with your favorite
things to do in Canton, Ohio, or any questions you have if you’re still planning your trip.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend or family member who’s thinking about visiting Canton or looking for a new Ohio road trip destination.
Comments
Post a Comment