Get swept away by Canton. This vibrant community combines big-city amenities — from shopping, dining and cultural destinations to classy boutique hotels, a bustling nightlife and top-rated attractions — with a charming, approachable atmosphere. Spend a day, weekend or beyond enjoying easy traveling and living as you make memories that will last a lifetime.
Downtown Canton’s rare combination of historic charm and hip atmosphere makes exploring the city’s core a one-of-a-kind experience. Begin your blast into the past at the First Ladies National Historic Site — home of the National First Ladies Library & Museum. The Education Center, located in the historic City National Bank, provides rotating exhibits and insight into the country’s first ladies. Meanwhile, the Saxton House offers guided tours of the beautifully maintained Victorian building and last remaining home with direct ties to President William McKinley and his wife Ida Saxton McKinley.
Make your way to the Downtown Canton Historic District, where an approachable, whimsical atmosphere sets the backdrop for discovering beautifully maintained buildings — Old Stone Chapel and Onesto Event Center, to name a few — and exploring dozens of restaurants, galleries and shops. Looking to buy some local swag? Visit Cantonology to browse photos, art pieces, glassware, jewelry and more, all inspired by Canton and Ohio. If you are looking for an experience you will never forget, stop by Boomdyada, where you can create terrariums and living landscapes that bring a bit of nature to an inside space.
Next, stop for a photo op at the Canton sign at Centennial Plaza before heading to Jerzee’s Café to enjoy classic American fare and cocktails with a view of the plaza from their patio. This destination is also nestled in the middle of the city’s Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), where you can grab a 21+ beverage at more than a dozen destinations and walk freely among nearly 70 acres of downtown Canton.
Stick around after dark for First Friday, when the city’s core transforms from a charming historical downtown to a hip, vibrant destination where live entertainment plays throughout the streets and galleries stay open late. Throughout the year, outdoor festivals celebrate everything from cultural heritage and various musical genres to wine and Pride.
From ice cream parlors, coffee shops and candy stores to breweries, bistros, barbecue joints, steakhouses, fine dining and flavors from around the world, downtown Canton is home to more than 25 places to please any palate. Offering a variety of cuisines and settings, restaurants specialize in everything from wine and bourbon to Asian, Italian, farm-to-table fare, build-your-own hot dogs and charcuterie boards. After indulging in a delicious meal, dance the night away, swing to the rhythm of live music or turn the evening into a game night engaging in some friendly tabletop fun.
When it comes to dining in downtown Canton, no trip is complete without a stop at Bender’s Tavern, an iconic spot on the National Register of Historic Places that played a pivotal role in the founding of the NFL. Not to mention, it’s a local favorite that has been serving seafood and steaks since 1902. Take in the façade from the patio — one of many outdoor spots to eat downtown.
For true foodie fans, easily navigate several spots in a single day with Canton Food Tours. In between trips to four restaurants, work up an appetite strolling through the Canton Arts District and getting the inside scoop on local art galleries, shops and cultural hubs.
With seven galleries, 22 art studios and five live music venues — not to mention a vast collection of American art, special exhibits and workshops at the Canton Museum of Art — downtown Canton is a haven of creativity and easily accessible cultural exploration. Destinations such as Patina Arts Centre, a nonprofit arts education organization, work to generate creative revitalization and community empowerment through arts. Just Imagine Gift Gallery showcases ceramics, paintings, textiles and unique items you are sure to love created by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Mark your calendar for any one of the exciting events at the historic Canton Palace Theatre, which offers a full schedule of film festivals, live theater, concerts, sensory cinema series, kids’ movies and more. Or, catch a performance by the talented dancers of the Canton Ballet.
Art is so prevalent here that it can’t even be contained within the walls of the Canton Arts District. While you’re soaking up the city’s charm, keep your eyes peeled for photo ops featuring public art. In downtown alone, you’ll uncover 11 outdoor art installations. Many celebrate the city’s ties to football and the NFL, making them great stops before or after checking the Pro Football Hall of Fame off of your Canton bucket list.
Map out your stay and discover key downtown resources.
