Family Road-Trip to Canton’s McKinley Museum (Stark County) from Newcomerstown, Tusc. County provided plenty of entertainment for all ages.
The McKinley Presidential Museum and Library is a historic site. If you live in the area, it’s a must-visit for sure. There is a plethora of history that runs deep. What a privilege that the 25th President’s memorial is nearby. The website states, “We are dedicated to collecting and preserving the significant materials and records related to the life of William McKinley, his family and his career.” They truly do a wonderful job!
Here are some tips and tricks for 1st-time Mommas coming with kiddos!
- -The drive-up 77N was great and easy. The parking in front, near the monument, is very limited. We got there first thing when they opened, but when we left there were no spots. There was also no clear signage on where to go for parking until we were leaving and there is a huge side parking lot to the left of the museum.
- -The entry into the museum is pretty astounding seeing the monument. On a nice day, kids can run up the 119 or so steps and slide down the sides.
- -If you have young children make sure to bring the smaller stroller (umbrella type) as it is a tight squeeze for bigger ones.
- -The upstairs historic old towne portion was very unique and fun. They had great interactive pieces for kids like the fire pole, and the train station. Which my son loved both! But make sure to wear good walking shoes, because the floor is made of bricks, and even with our tennis shoes on some of the bricks were getting caught, and we tripped a few times.
- -On the second floor there is no changing station for kids in the women’s bathroom, but there is in the men’s. Downstairs bathrooms are quite large and there’s changing tables. There is also a drinking fountain in between the bathrooms, a vending machine nearby and lots of coat hangers.
- -Main floor-Our older kids loved the vast dinosaur exhibits. Immediately upon entering there is a large animated dinosaur that moves and roars and my 3-year-old son was scared of the dino, so I rushed him in quick. I later learned that there is a back door through the gift shop if your littles are afraid to walk by- you can ask the gift shop working to take you in a back way!
- -The planetarium was very neat but it does become completely dark and while my older kids loved it, the younger ones don’t love being in the dark.
- -There are plenty of hands-on science experiments up the ramp on the main floor (along with hand sanitizer on the walls) appropriate for all ages. The science behind the experiments is written clearly for older kiddos to read.
- *Tip– check out your local library- N. Canton Public Library has a free family pass to visit the McKinley Museum and Tuscarawas County Public Library does as well.
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