Historic Locations to See in the National Heritage Area


Museums to theaters, and splendid homes to vast gardens: we’re thrilled to share some of the top historic places to visit along the 110 miles of the Ohio & Erie Canalway. 

Historic Homes & Primitive Dwellings:

  • A historic gem, the Carriage House Museum is located in Dover, Ohio. The elegant, opulent mansion is the former residence of Jeremiah E. Reeves and packs interesting, rich history. 
  • The Frazee House highlights early Ohio settlers Stephen and Mehitable Frazee as well as canal-era building styles in the family’s preserved federal home in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. 
  • The Hower House Museum is a 28-room mansion built in 1871 by John Henry Hower. The exhibit is full of treasurers and furnishings from all over the world. 
  • The Richard Howe House is a canal-era landmark in Downtown Akron. Sometimes known as the Howe Mansion, this was the home of Canalway engineer Richard Howe.
  • The Oberlin House, originally built in 1847, now models the lifestyle lived by early Canal Fulton residents. Explore the looks of a simpler era and recognize the hardships and accomplishments of our predecessors. 

Ohio’s Abolitionist History 

  • The Spring Hill Historic Home was built by Quakers who supported the anti-slavery movement. The home contains a hidden stairway that was used to hide slaves. Underground Railroad exhibits are held annually.
  • The John Brown House was the home of famous abolitionist John Brown. One of Ohio’s most known historical spots, here tourists walk through history and learn the events that took place here in Akron in the 19th century.
  • Considered to be one of the finest of its time, the Rhoads-Harter House was built in 1847. It was part of the Underground Railroad, which assisted runaway slaves on their journey to freedom.
  • The Cozad-Bates House is the only pre-Civil war home remaining in the University Circle neighborhood of Cleveland. The historical landmark offers educational exhibits of anti-slavery activists and freedom seekers as well as provocative displays on constitutional voting rights. 

Outdoor History:

  • Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens was built for the co-founder of The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Geocaching is a popular activity here, along with the three Canalway Quests. 
  • Canton Garden Center is an organization with a library of free gardening information. The Canton Garden Center encourages and educates the youth on natural resources and tips for a healthy garden!
  • One of Ohio’s most notable historical reserves, Hale Farm & Village is located in Bath Township, Ohio. It features an outdoor living tour of life in the mid-1800s. Here you can view historic houses, animals, gardens, and more.
  • This historical cemetery is the burial site of the 20th United States President James A. Garfield and other notable people. Lake View Cemetery also hosts events, such as races, concerts, and the springtime “Daffodil Hill”.
  • League Park is a historic ballpark located in Cleveland, Ohio. Many big sports moments were held here, including the 1920 World Series.
  • Founded in 1772 as a mission among the Delaware Indians, Schoenbrunn Village was a Moravian church. Today the village includes gardens, a mission cemetery, and a historic museum. 

Canal History:

  • Home to the St. Helena III Canal Boat, the Canal Fulton Canalway Center is a local visitor’s favorite. Playgrounds, pavilions, and recreational boats are available to guests.
  • The only guard lock on the canal from Clinton, learn about the history of this Ohio dam. The Guard Lock - Clinton dam was used to control the water level to avoid flooding. 
  • At the Canal Exploration Center, you can interact with games, maps, and explore the meaning of canals. Explore exhibits that illustrate canal life in the valley.
  • St. Helena III Canal Boat offers fun activities for those who love boat rides. Relax and take a glimpse of the canal-era history while taking a ride on the water.

Miscellaneous Historic Spots of Note:

  • Known for its quality entertainment and live performances, the Akron Civic Theater is one of Akron’s main locations for shows and other events. A fan of the arts? You’ll find a wide selection of entertaining events at this historic theatre.
  • Love geographic nature? The  Boston Mill Visitor Center is for you! Visitors can explore exhibits, go hiking, and shop in the gift store.
  • Once a stagecoach stop, the Dunham Tavern Museum is one of Cleveland’s oldest buildings. This museum offers an insight into the life of Ohio settlers, Rufus and Jane Dunham. 
  • The Kimpton Schofield Hotel is one of Cleveland’s most-loved landmarks. Now restored, the boutique hotel offers a coffee shop, food, and more. 
Posted: September 08, 2021


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