13+ Best Things to Do in Canton, Ohio
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I was born and raised in Ohio (shoutout to Toledo!), but to be totally honest—I didn’t explore much of my home state growing up. After a recent trip flying nonstop from TPA to CAK (thanks to Breeze Airways), I realized how much I was missing out on. There are truly so many fun things to do in Canton, Ohio and the surrounding area, and I’m officially obsessed!
Canton is best known as the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but it’s got way more going on than just football. Think charming local shops, delicious eats, beautiful parks, and a downtown that’s small but full of personality. I had such a good time soaking in this part of northeast Ohio, and I can’t wait to share all the best things to do in Canton with you!
Also, check out my Overlook Map with all of the spots we checked out in Canton and Akron!
Things to Do in Canton
1. Pro Football Hall of Fame
Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just tagging along, the Pro Football Hall of Fame is seriously impressive. It’s filled with iconic memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and a full walkthrough of football history.
From the Hall of Fame Gallery to the Super Bowl Theater, there’s a lot to take in—so give yourself plenty of time. And if you’re in town during Enshrinement Week, even better!
The whole area has grown into what’s called Hall of Fame Village, and there’s way more to do than just walk through exhibits. You’ll find interactive rides, VR experiences, and fun attractions like the Forward Pass zipline and Red Zone mini-golf. And don’t skip the food while you’re here! We grabbed lunch at Gridiron Gastropub, and it was a touchdown!
This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Canton, especially if you want something fun and interactive that goes beyond a typical museum day.
2. Gervasi Vineyard
Gervasi feels like a little slice of Italy tucked into northeast Ohio. I definitely recommend staying here if you can (we stayed in one of their beautiful villas—more on that later!), but even if you’re not spending the night, it’s absolutely worth visiting!
They’ve got wine tastings, multiple restaurants, live music, fire pits, walking paths, and so many cozy spots to unwind. It’s one of those places that just feels special no matter the season.
This is hands down one of the best things to do in Canton if you’re into wine—or even if you’re just looking for a unique date night or girls’ outing while you’re in town.
3. McKinley Presidential Library & Museum
McKinley Presidential Library & Museum is way more than a typical presidential museum. Of course, you’ll learn all about President William McKinley’s life and legacy, but there’s also a science center, a planetarium, and even a life-size street scene from the past.
It’s super family-friendly and interactive, which keeps things interesting. Don’t miss the McKinley Monument right next door—it’s a little bit of a climb, but the view at the top is worth it!
4. Do a Food Tour with Explore City Tours
If you’re looking for one of the most fun and delicious things to do in Canton, I can’t recommend a food tour with Explore City Tours enough! This experience gives you a chance to check out some of the best restaurants in Canton—plus you get to learn a little local history along the way!
We tried everything from cozy comfort food to creative small bites, and I’m not kidding when I say there was so much food. It’s part walking tour, part food adventure, and such a great way to explore downtown. This was hands-down one of my favorite things I did in Canton—I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
I genuinely loved all of our stops, but between the rich history and the delicious food at Bender’s, it’s one spot I’d definitely recommend checking out—even if you don’t have time for the full food tour.
5. Explore Downtown Canton
Downtown Canton is such a cool area to walk around—historic buildings, colorful murals, cozy shops, and a little bit of that artsy-meets-small-town vibe.
One of the standout things to check out is Centennial Plaza and The Eleven, a walkable series of 11 jumbo-sized public art installations scattered throughout downtown. Commissioned by ArtsinStark and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, each statue represents a greatest moment from the first century of pro football—and they’re incredibly well done. It’s really moving to see those moments brought to life across public spaces in a way that feels integrated and curated!
Downtown also has plenty of little spots to grab a bite, a drink, or just chill—perfect for a relaxed afternoon or evening.
6. Eat at Swensons
Okay, Swensons is such an Ohio thing, and I totally get the hype now. It’s an old-school drive-in burger joint, and the vibe is just as fun as the food is good. The Galley Boy—their signature double cheeseburger with two secret sauces—was easily one of the best burgers I’ve had in a long time.
Plus, the servers literally run to your car to take your order, which feels like a whole moment. If you’re trying to check off some iconic things to do in Canton, this is definitely one of them.
7. Grab Coffee at Walkie Talkie
This coffee shop is SO fun. Walkie Talkie totally nailed the quirky-cute aesthetic, and their drinks are just as creative as the decor. I got a cold brew with blue flower milk, birthday cake syrup, and sprinkles over ice—it was wild and so delicious.
They make all their syrups in-house, and you can really tell the difference. Whether you want a solid caffeine fix or just a fun little coffee stop to break up your day, this spot is a winner. Plus, it’s locally owned and clearly made with love!
8. Sip Wine at Maize Valley
Maize Valley surprised me in the best way. It’s a winery, brewery, and seasonal event space all in one, and everything about it feels so cozy and welcoming.
Their wine is seriously amazing—I’m talking Traverse City-level good (and ya’ll know that was my fave!)—and I loved that they had a full menu too. Depending on the season, they also have sunflower fields, corn mazes, live music, and more.
9. Visit Beech Creek Botanical Garden & Nature Preserve
If you’re craving a peaceful break, Beech Creek is a little hidden gem. The trails are beautiful and shaded, and there are interactive exhibits that make it feel really engaging—even if you’re just there to walk and enjoy nature.
I went in the summer, and the gardens were blooming with color. There’s also a butterfly house and a hands-on science center, which would be great if you’re bringing kids along, but honestly it’s just as fun for adults who love plants and pretty views.
10. Explore Hartville
Just a quick drive from Canton, Hartville is a must for anyone who loves thrifting, flea markets, and antique shopping. The Hartville Marketplace & Flea Market is open Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays. It’s massive, and it’s super easy to spend hours wandering the aisles.
There’s also Hartville Hardware (which sounds random but is actually kind of iconic as the largest independent hardware store in the country!), cute local boutiques, and plenty of Amish-style bakeries and diners. It’s a whole experience, and a fun way to mix up your Canton trip.
And if you want to explore the great outdoors, Quail Hollow Park is full of easy walking trails and pretty views!
11. Check Out Bloom Hill Farm & Flowers
This was one of my favorite stops of the whole trip. Bloom Hill Farm hosts seasonal flower events that are straight out of a Pinterest board. We went during their summer festival, and there were flower fields to walk through, cut-your-own bouquets, food trucks, live music, and local vendors selling candles, jewelry, and all kinds of cute stuff.
If you’re planning a summer or fall visit and looking for dreamy things to do in Canton, definitely keep an eye on their event calendar.
12. First Friday
If you’re in town the first Friday of the month, don’t miss First Friday—a monthly celebration that lights up Downtown Canton from 5–9 PM. This walkable event brings together live music, street entertainment, local art, delicious food, and unique shopping, all centered around the Hall of Fame Centennial Plaza.
It’s such a fun way to experience the creative energy of the city and support local businesses while you’re at it!
13. Explore Akron
If you have a little extra time, Akron is super close and packed with even more things to do! You can spend a few hours at the Akron Zoo, explore some of the area’s gorgeous parks, or even hop on the scenic train that runs through Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
There’s plenty to check out in the area — and if you want even more ideas, be sure to check out my full blog post on things to do in Akron!
Where to Stay in Canton
If you’re looking to make your trip extra special, Gervasi Vineyard is hands down the most iconic place to stay in Canton. I honestly can’t imagine it getting any better. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or celebrating something special, this place feels like a full-on experience—not just a hotel stay.
You’ve got a few different accommodation options to choose from:
- The Villas – luxurious private suites
- The Casa – boutique-style hotel rooms
- The Farmhouse – a beautifully restored home that you can rent out entirely
And while yes, I’m sure Gervasi isn’t the most affordable option in the area, it is the most unforgettable. The entire property is absolutely stunning, and the onsite dining makes it even better. Between The Bistro, The Piazza, The Crush House, and The Still House, there’s no shortage of incredible food and wine. Plus, the grounds are perfect for a stroll, and they even host events and live music throughout the year.
If you’re looking for something else or need to compare prices, you can explore more options for where to stay in Canton for your dates here.
Which of these iconic things to do in Canton are you checking out first?!
Whether you’re planning a quick weekend visit or just passing through northeast Ohio, there are so many things to do in Canton that make it worth the stop. From rich football history and fun local spots to nearby adventures in Akron, this area has more going on than you might expect. I hope this guide helped you plan your time in Canton—let me know in the comments what you’re most excited to check out!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Ohio blog posts:
