Stark11: 11 Must Do Experiences in Canal Fulton: Come spend the day with us!

Jun 26, 2024

This little city situated along the Ohio Erie Canal boasts a rich history, unique attractions, and a strong, vibrant community spirit!

1. CATCH A RIDE ON THE NEW AND IMPROVED ST. HELENA III

Canal Fulton’s most iconic attraction is climbing aboard the St. Helena III Canal Boat. In the past, the two-mile trek was a trip back in time, where passengers were greeted by a historian, who told stories of how the canal originally operated. While these trips are still an option, Canal Fulton now utilizes the boat in many different ways, including Haunted Halloween boat rides, business after-hours social events, and late-night ghost rides, where author Sherri Brake tells stories of real-life hauntings on the canal. These new offerings have allowed the canal boat to maintain its charm while bringing in a new generation of riders.

2. EXPLORE DOWNTOWN WITH A DRINK IN YOUR HAND

In late July 2020, the DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) took effect in Historic Downtown Canal Fulton. This new initiative will allow visitors to grab a drink at one of the participating Canal Fulton businesses and allow them to carry alcoholic refreshments outdoors while strolling within a specific area. Carry-out drinks can be enjoyed in the DORA seven days per week from Noon to Midnight.

3. ENJOY LIVE MUSIC

For a perfect summer night, grab some ice cream from either Almost Heaven or Cherry Street Creamery and head to the St. Helena Amphitheater. Enjoy the Summer Concert Series, where local musicians will serenade you under the stars.

If you prefer a glass of wine, visit the beautiful patio at Dragonfly Winery. Savor a glass while listening to popular local musicians performing all summer long.

Other great spots to enjoy live music include:

Make the most of these local venues and experience the vibrant music scene this summer!

4. SHOP THE DOWNTOWN HISTORIC DISTRICT

Venture down to the Historic District and discover a variety of unique and boutique stores. Step back in time and relive your childhood at The Toys Time Forgot or spoil the kids with a furry new friend at Keillor’s – A Teddy Bear Shoppe. The Little Toy Store is a child’s dream, filled to the brim with toys for every age. The Happy Days Co. offers a bright, fun, and creative family-style boutique committed to finding things that bring joy and happiness.

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Deliciously Different Fudge shop or pick up a beautiful bouquet for your loved one at Coach House Floral. Don't forget to snap a picture at the new mural art installation on the side of Coach House Floral—it's a perfect backdrop to capture your visit!

Looking for a personalized gift or souvenir? Visit the Village Silversmith for unique handmade gifts created by Ohio artists, including jewelry, wood turning, pottery, glass, home decor, and more.

Explore the charm and nostalgia of the Downtown Historic District, where every visit promises delightful finds and cherished memories.

5. ENJOY A HIGH NOON TEA

You’ll want to call ahead and make reservations for this special treat. The Dragonfly Tea Room is the perfect place to gather with the ladies for lunch or a pot of tea. Bringing the kids along? Be sure to check out their calendar of events for themed parties with their favorite characters. Before leaving, check out the gift shop for unique gifts, tea sets and to take home your favorite blend.

6. OUTDOOR RECREATION

Enjoy 25-miles of the iconic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail in Stark County that travels right through Canal Fulton. The shady, flat terrain parallels the Tuscarawas River through deciduous forests and rural and urban landscapes. This Stark County section is part of the 110-mile Ohio & Erie Canalway National Heritage area, which extends north all the way to Cleveland and south to New Philadelphia. If water is more your thing you can enjoy a day on the Tuscarawas River at Canal Fulton Canoe Livery. The Canoe Livery offers canoe, kayak, and bike rentals, primitive camping and a variety of other activities.

7. ATTEND A FESTIVAL

With nearby Clay’s Resort Jellystone Park and Nickajack Farms, there is no shortage of fun year-round! Clay’s Resort Jellystone Park is the host location of The Country Fest in the summer and the annual Yankee Peddler Festival in the fall, along with several other events in between. Nickajack Farms is the place to be come fall. Grab the whole family for a fun day of pumpkin picking, corn mazes, pony rides, corn cannons, gourd golf, and so much more!

Don't miss the Halloween Festival, featuring haunted boat rides, treats, games, costume contests, and a larger-than-life pumpkin installation perfect for photo taking and capturing spooky memories.

Plus, mark your calendar for Olde Canal Days Festival in Downtown Canal Fulton the last week of June.

8. ON, YOUR MARK, GET SET, RUN!

The Ralph Regula Towpath and Olde Muskingum trails have become a popular spot for races of all lengths – from 5Ks to the 100-mile, 24-hour Eagle Up Ultra in June that starts and ends in Canal Fulton. Make sure to mark your calendars for a spooktacular time at The Haunted Forest Marathon happening October 31st featuring a kids run, 5K, Half Marathon and Full Marathon.

9. STAY AT A BED AND BREAKFAST

Canal Fulton is a place to sit back and relax, rent a bike, and ride as far as you would like on one of two trails, or simply just take in the small town life. Tandem Trails is a guest room with a private bath. While it is their residence, Tandem Trails hosts vacate the second floor when they are accommodating guests, making the upstairs of the home completely private. The Dragonfly Bed & Breakfast is housed above the beautiful Dragonfly Tea Room & Gift Shop in the oldest building in Canal Fulton. Stay in the heart of downtown at Cornerstone on the Canal or the Historic Pink House.

10. VISIT STARK COUNTY’S LARGEST AMUSEMENT PARK

Slugger’s & Putter’s Amusement Park is Stark County’s largest amusement park and Ohio’s largest Family Fun Center. Featuring Mini-Golf, Batting Cages, Lazer Tag, and over 20 total rides and attractions you’re sure to have a good time! Slugger’s & Putter’s also offers unique packages for birthday parties, company picnics, and other group outings.

11. ENJOY THE TASTES OF THE TOWN

From the neighborhood bar and grill at Canal Boat Lounge and Cast Iron Grille to enjoy dinner and craft beer at the Barrel Room on Canal, there is something to please everyone in Canal Fulton. Start your day with the fun and delicious donuts at Peace, Love, and Little Donuts or grab the whole family for breakfast at Sister’s Century House. Catch a game with friends at Paolino’s Sports Pub, or book your next party in Canal Grille’s private dining room.

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