This Ohio Scenic Byway Is The Road Trip Of A Lifetime
Designated a National Scenic Byway in 2000, the Ohio & Erie Canalway isn’t just a road; it’s a piece of American history. The 110-mile route follows the path of the original Ohio & Erie Canal, which was completed in 1832. Linking the Ohio River to Lake Erie, the canal transformed the country, carrying goods, news, and people northward in a fraction of the time. The canal didn’t just boost the local economy, turning Ohio into one of the most populated states in the nation; it also positioned America as a world economic force.
The byway runs south from Cleveland to New Philadelphia, through a National Heritage Area, passing through 58 communities, incredible scenery, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions. Highlights include exploring the stunning Cuyahoga National Park, a tour on a restored canal boat, and seeing history come to life in the 1800s village of Zoar. Tracing a path through Ohio’s rich industrial history, early towns, and pastoral landscapes is a breathtaking drive that ranks among the Buckeye State’s best.
Know Before You Go
The byway isn’t a single road, but it’s well-marked and easy to navigate. It begins in Cleveland’s Flats area and ends at Schoenbrunn Village in New Philadelphia. As you drive, look for the blue and orange signs that mark the way. There are more than 600 along the route, so they’re hard to miss. While the byway itself is open year-round, some attractions may not be, so it’s best to check in advance if you have a specific activity in mind.
Day One: Cleveland to Akron
Your journey begins in Cleveland, the perfect place to grab supplies and fuel before hitting the road. Stop by the West Side Market to get the best local produce and freshest treats in the city. This busy shopping hub is Cleveland’s largest and oldest continuously operating public market. It hosts over 70 vendors selling prepared foods from around the world, freshly baked snacks, and meals, making it the ideal place to pick up a picnic for the road.
Once you’ve done your shopping, get on the road. You join the byway by heading south on US-422 to OH-14, and then taking Canal Road. The route follows the Cuyahoga River, taking you to the Canal Exploration Center, an interactive museum within Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The center is housed in a former historic tavern and features stories from 1800s canal workers, maps of the canal’s construction, and memorabilia from the era.
Continue south to explore more of Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Ohio’s only national park, this 33,000-acre preserve covers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state, including rolling hills, open farmlands, dense woods, and riverside meadows. The park contains over 125 miles of hiking trails, boardwalks, observation towers, a nature center, and a picnic area. The park is open year-round; however, visitor center hours vary by season.
It’s a short drive from the park to your stop for the day, the lively town of Akron. Known as the ‘rubber capital of the world’, this busy canalside city has a rich industrial past which you can explore at the Akron History Center. The museum covers 200 years of history over three floors, 62 exhibits, more than 150 artifacts, and 30 videos.
Treat yourself to a boutique accommodation experience in Akron at the O'Neil House Bed & Breakfast. This stunning Tudor mansion has four luxurious guest rooms, private gardens, a library, and a classic Old World living room with a cozy fireplace and a grand piano.
Day Two: Akron to New Philadelphia
If you’re travelling with kids, you should make a few stops in Akron before you leave town. The Akron Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from all over the globe and has a regular schedule of animal tours, encounters, and seasonal events. You’ll also want to spend some time at the Akron Children’s Museum, which entertains little ones with interactive play rooms, games, exhibits, and colorful displays.
Back on the road, you’ll pass Portage Lakes State Park, a 411-acre recreation area covering crystal clear glacial lakes and ponds. Hike the walking trails, swim, or stretch your legs at this pristine preserve.
The byway leads south to Canal Fulton, a historic town with several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Here you can journey along the canal courtesy of the St Helena III. This replica canal boat departs from the Canal Fulton Canalway Center for a two-mile round trip along an original section of the Ohio-Erie Canal.
Zoar is just over 30 minutes south of Canal Fulton. Settled in 1817 by German Immigrants, this entire village is a National Historic Landmark. Wander the town to see restored 1800s buildings and businesses, walk in the village’s public garden, and explore the Zoar Store, built in 1833.
It’s a short drive from Zoar to the byway’s end in New Philadelphia. The last stop is historic Schoenbrunn Village, which is open seasonally from June to October. Now an outdoor museum, the village was founded in 1772 as the first Christian settlement in Ohio among the Delaware Indians.
America’s first inland waterway link between the Great Lakes and the Gulf of America, the Ohio & Erie Canal was a manmade marvel of its time. In the modern era, we take transportation for granted. Driving the Ohio & Erie Canalway National Scenic Byway is a poignant reminder of the vision, resources, and manpower it takes to change a country. Cruising the scenic roads and passing through welcoming small towns, this byway shows visitors the real Ohio and offers unique experiences. If you’re looking for a road trip with more than picturesque views and lovely picnic spots, follow the canal path to discover Ohio’s fascinating past and vibrant present.
