Canton, Ohio - More than Mustard Blazers and Bronze Busts

Canton’s relationship with the Professional Football Hall of Fame and the men who are immortalized there has made it synonymous with excellence. But the celestial attraction often detracts from the other wonderful venues, historical sites and things to do in the medium-sized Midwestern city. While you’re in Canton, an examination of football’s past is a must, but don’t miss out on the best of the rest.

The seat of Stark County is known as the “Golf Capital of Ohio,” which is quite a claim considering the abundance of esteemed golf courses throughout the Buckeye State, and the contributions natives like Jack Nicklaus have made to the game. The highly-ranked Quarry Golf Club was carved from volatile natural terrain, and features 10-story cliffs, deep water lakes and shadowy woodlands. A local favorite, the Tam O’Shanter Golf Club was again voted the No. 1 place to play in Stark County. Other popular layouts include Wilkshire Golf Course and The Legends at Massillon.

Guests looking to spend a weekend or a week in Canton have an array of options for building a “Stay and Play” package, including the McKinley Grand – a boutique hotel that’s built quite a reputation.

Next door, the women who stood behind the leaders of the free world are remembered at the National First Ladies Library and Research Center. Located on Market Avenue in downtown Canton, this unique facility strives to educate the public about the contributions of First Ladies and other notable women in history from Jacqueline Kennedy to Michelle Obama. Ida Saxton McKinley’s husband and 25th President of the United States William McKinley’s legacy is preserved at the William McKinley  Presidential Library and National Monument.

Enjoying the outdoors is nearly as popular as football in Canton. Round up the family and head out to one of the many green spaces in the city including Jackson Bog State Nature Preserve, Quail Hollow State Park and The Wilderness Center.

Canton also caters to the more cosmopolitan crowd. Sip a chardonnay at the Gervasi Winery or interpret a variety of paintings and sculptures at the Canton Museum of Art. While you’re at it, do a little shopping at the sprawling Westfield Belden Village.

Residents of Canton enjoy a high quality of life thanks to the city’s vibrant arts community, world-class hospitals, five area universities and prominent public spaces. See for yourself what all the fuss is about. For more information, or to plan your trip to the area, log onto www.visitcantonstark.com.