Planning a stay at Akron-Canton Jellystone Park? Add an extra day (or two!) and explore some of Northeast Ohio’s best family-friendly attractions just a short drive away. Whether you’re a sports fan, nature lover, or traveling with kids, there’s something nearby to make your stay even more memorable.
Quick Picks
- Pro Football Hall of Fame (Canton): Iconic museum of the game with interactive exhibits and the Hall of Fame Gallery.
- Hall of Fame Village (Canton): Dining, shops, events, and family fun surrounding the Hall campus.
- Cleveland Metroparks (Greater Cleveland): 18 reservations, 25,000+ acres, and 325+ miles of trails for hikes, waterfalls, and picnics.
- Akron Zoo (Akron): Compact, walkable zoo featuring Pride of Africa, Grizzly Ridge, and Komodo Kingdom.
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park (≈30 minutes): Waterfalls, the Towpath Trail, and the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.
- McKinley Presidential Library & Museum + National Memorial (Canton): Hands-on history and science center with a stunning memorial.
Celebrate the Game at Pro Football Hall of Fame (Canton)
Why go: A bucket‑list stop for sports fans with decades of football history under one roof. This iconic museum celebrates the game’s greatest players and moments.
Highlights:
- Hall of Fame Gallery with bronze busts and touch‑screen kiosks
- “A Game for Life” holographic theater experience
- Rotating artifacts and interactive exhibits kids can enjoy
Good to know: Pair this with Hall of Fame Village (below) for a full day out.
Get the Full Fan Experience at Hall of Fame Village (Canton)
Why go: Extend the football fun with food, shopping, and family activities clustered around the Hall campus.
Highlights:
- Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium and event venues
- Fan zone experiences and live programming throughout the year
- Plenty of dining options for easy post‑museum meals
Tip: Check the events schedule to catch a game, concert, or seasonal festival.
Explore the Outdoors at Cleveland Metroparks (Akron/Cleveland area)
Why go: A vast system of green spaces offering something for every age and ability.
Highlights:
- 18 reservations spanning 25,000+ acres
- 325+ miles of trails for waterfall walks, forest hikes, and scenic overlooks
- Playgrounds, picnic shelters, nature centers, and accessible paths
Tip: Choose an easy loop for little legs or tackle a waterfall trek—both are close to the city.
Family Friendly Fun at The Akron Zoo
Why go: A manageable, half‑day outing that’s perfect for families with young kids.
Highlights:
- Pride of Africa, Grizzly Ridge, and Komodo Kingdom habitats
- Up‑close viewing areas and seasonal programming
- Compact layout that’s stroller‑friendly
Tip: Arrive early for cooler temps and more active animals.
Day trip to Cuyahoga Valley National Park (≈30 minutes)
Why go: Ohio’s national park features waterfalls, forested trails, and scenic train rides.
Highlights:
- Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail for biking and hiking
- Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad with hop‑on/hop‑off stations
- Waterfall favorites and photo‑worthy views throughout the valley
Tip: Pair a train ride with a Towpath stroll from trail‑connected stations for an easy, memorable day.
McKinley Presidential Library & Museum + National Memorial (Canton)
Why go: A meaningful blend of American history, science, and family learning.
Highlights:
- Street of Shops: life‑size 19th‑century town
- Discover World: hands‑on science center
- Hoover‑Price Planetarium and the outdoor National Memorial
Tip: Budget time to walk the steps up to the memorial for a great family photo spot.
Plan Your Visit to Akron-Canton Jellystone Park™
After a day of exploring, come “home” to Akron‑Canton Jellystone Park™.
- Check the Activities Calendar
- Browse Campsites & Cabins
- Book Your Campsite to round out your trip
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in CVNP, high‑fiving Hall of Famers, or saying hello to the lions at the Akron Zoo, there’s plenty nearby to turn a simple stay into a memory‑packed getaway. Use Akron‑Canton Jellystone Park™ as your comfy basecamp, build a flexible plan, and leave room for campfire s’mores. You’ll be glad you added an extra day.