Cascade Locks Park and Mustill Store
1 / 10

Cascade Locks Park and Mustill Store

4.7
·70 reviews·Akron, United States

Explore Akron's industrial past at Cascade Locks Park, featuring historic canal locks and the charming Mustill Store museum.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for trails

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Cascade Locks Park and Mustill Store

Cascade Locks Park and Mustill Store

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather for trails

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Akron's industrial past at Cascade Locks Park, featuring historic canal locks and the charming Mustill Store museum.

4.7
(70 reviews)

"Floored by how beautiful this place was, a hidden gem in Akron's valley!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Towpath Trail

Connect to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail for scenic walks and bike rides. :athletic_shoe:

🕰️ Visit the Mustill Store

Explore the historic Mustill Store for a unique glimpse into the past. :museum:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mustill Store Museum

Mustill Store Museum

Inside the historic storefront

Step back in time at this charming museum, showcasing a 1930s general store. A true gem for history buffs!

Ohio & Erie Canal Locks

Ohio & Erie Canal Locks

Along the Towpath Trail

Witness the impressive remnants of the historic canal locks, a vital part of Akron's industrial heritage.

Towpath Trail Access

Towpath Trail Access

Park entrance

Connect to the scenic Towpath Trail for a walk or bike ride, offering beautiful views of the valley.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History

Cascade Locks Park is a living testament to Akron's industrial past. Explore the remnants of the Ohio & Erie Canal and understand its role in shaping the region's economy. Don't miss the Mustill Store for a glimpse into early 20th-century commerce.

Trail Access & Amenities

The park is a key access point to the scenic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Public restrooms are available, making it a convenient stop for hikers and cyclists. Be aware that trains do pass through, adding a unique auditory element to your visit.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for trails
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The perfect metaphysical shop for all your needs! #metaphysical #akron #akronohio #thingstodoinohio #ohiocheck #ohio #witchtok 
@annielouise013
101.8K likes • 591.3K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Towpath Trail

Connect to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail for scenic walks and bike rides. :athletic_shoe:

🕰️ Visit the Mustill Store

Explore the historic Mustill Store for a unique glimpse into the past. :museum:

inspired by @Briar! 🍓🐛✨ I went to the Akron Art Museum late at night with my friend Priscilla😁🎨🖌️👩‍🦼‍➡️🔦🚶‍♀️ EVERYONE DUET THIS🤣🤫 #Hamilton #AkronArtMuseum #JaqPaq #AshSlayerz #featureme
@ladybug1801
39.4K likes • 323.8K views
only in ohio #stow #ohio #travel #traveltok #akron
@emmalemmawemmma
17.1K likes • 141K views

🚂 Train Spotting

Be prepared for occasional train crossings; they add to the park's atmosphere. :train2:

🚻 Public Restrooms

Convenient public restrooms are available within the park area. :toilet:

wait until the end 😍 #Ohio #ohioans #ohiocheck #Hiking #waterfall #getoutside #nature #hike #hikeohio #swimming
@wanderlustinohio
12.7K likes • 107K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Towpath Trail

Connect to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail for scenic walks and bike rides. :athletic_shoe:

🕰️ Visit the Mustill Store

Explore the historic Mustill Store for a unique glimpse into the past. :museum:

🚂 Train Spotting

Be prepared for occasional train crossings; they add to the park's atmosphere. :train2:

🚻 Public Restrooms

Convenient public restrooms are available within the park area. :toilet:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(70 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are consistently impressed by the beauty and historical significance of Cascade Locks Park, particularly its well-preserved canal locks and the charming Mustill Store. Many appreciate the park's role in showcasing Akron's industrial heritage and its convenient access to the Towpath Trail. Some note the occasional train noise as a minor aspect of the experience.

"I came here for a wedding and was absolutely floored at how beautiful this place was. I never knew such a beautiful spot existed in Akron's main valley area outside of the Merriman Valley. I just absolutely need to know more about the lore behind this place. Apparently there is a place that serves as a museum here that occupies a tiny old store front and will come back and elaborate if I can find out more!"

Adulting's Hard

"Friendly staff and well kept facilities. Thank you for doing this! Whenever I visit OH I look forward to riding the Towpath!"

Tamra Benfield

"Great preservation of a historical site and reference the economic progress made by advancing infrastructure. Hats off to the preservation society who led this effort"

Kevin Smith

What People Like

Beautiful historical site
Well-preserved canal locks
Charming Mustill Store

What People Dislike

Occasional train noise

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cascade Locks Park is located in Akron, Ohio, easily accessible by car. It's situated near downtown Akron and offers parking for visitors. The park is also a direct access point to the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, making it reachable by bike.

Yes, there is parking available for visitors at Cascade Locks Park, which is convenient for those driving to the location. Reddit

Information on public transportation routes to Cascade Locks Park can be found on the Akron Metro Regional Transit Authority website. It's advisable to check their schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Absolutely! The park is a prime access point for the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which is popular for cycling. Reddit

Cascade Locks Park is conveniently located near major roadways in Akron, making it easy to find. It's situated in the valley area, close to downtown.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Cascade Locks Park is a public park and generally does not require an admission fee. Entry to the park and the Towpath Trail is free. Reddit

As a public park, Cascade Locks Park is typically open from dawn to dusk. However, specific hours for the Mustill Store museum may vary. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the museum's hours. Reddit

While the park itself is free to enter, there might be a small admission fee or donation requested for the Mustill Store museum. It's recommended to verify this information beforehand.

The park grounds are usually accessible on holidays. For the Mustill Store, it's advisable to check their specific holiday operating schedule as it may differ from park hours.

Cascade Locks Park sometimes hosts events. Checking the park's official website or local event listings is the best way to find out about any upcoming tours or special activities. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic Ohio & Erie Canal locks, visit the Mustill Store museum for a glimpse into the past, and walk or bike the scenic Towpath Trail. Reddit

The Mustill Store typically operates with seasonal hours. It's best to confirm their current operating schedule before your visit, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. Reddit

Yes, public restrooms are available within the Cascade Locks Park area, which is convenient for visitors spending time exploring the park and trail. Reddit

Picnicking is generally permitted in public parks like Cascade Locks. Enjoying a meal amidst the historical and natural beauty can be a lovely experience. Reddit

The park preserves remnants of the Ohio & Erie Canal, which was crucial for Akron's industrial development. It highlights the economic progress driven by infrastructure advancements. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The historic canal locks, the charming Mustill Store, and the scenic Towpath Trail offer excellent photographic opportunities. The interplay of historical structures and nature provides diverse shots. Reddit

Yes, the park's location in the valley and its proximity to the Towpath Trail offer natural scenery that is great for photography, especially during spring and fall. TikTok

While trains are part of the park's ambiance, always prioritize safety. Capturing a train passing by the historical locks can make for a dramatic photograph. Reddit

Generally, personal photography is allowed. For commercial photography or filming, it's advisable to check with the park management for any specific guidelines or permits required.

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best natural light for photography, creating softer shadows and a more appealing atmosphere. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cascade Locks Park offers a blend of history and outdoor activity perfect for families. The Towpath Trail is ideal for a family bike ride or a leisurely stroll, allowing kids to burn off energy in a safe environment. The Mustill Store provides a unique educational experience, offering a glimpse into a bygone era that can spark curiosity in younger minds. Reddit

While the park itself is open and accessible, keep in mind that trains do pass through, which can be exciting for children but requires supervision. The presence of public restrooms adds to the convenience for families. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the historical surroundings, making it a full and enjoyable outing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ History Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by industrial history, Cascade Locks Park is a must-visit. The well-preserved Ohio & Erie Canal locks offer a direct connection to the waterway that fueled Akron's rise. You can spend hours exploring the remnants and imagining the scale of operations that once took place here. Reddit

The Mustill Store further enriches the historical experience, providing a tangible representation of local commerce from the early 20th century. The park's location along the Towpath Trail also allows for a deeper understanding of the canal's extensive network and its impact on regional development. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Ohio & Erie Canal

Cascade Locks Park is a vital link to Akron's past, specifically its role in the Ohio & Erie Canal. This waterway was instrumental in the city's growth, transforming it into a major industrial hub. The park preserves the physical remnants of this era, including the impressive canal locks that allowed boats to navigate the significant elevation changes in the Cuyahoga River valley. Exploring these structures offers a tangible connection to the engineering feats and the economic engine that once powered the region. Reddit

Visitors can walk along the Towpath Trail, which follows the original path of the canal. This trail not only provides a scenic route for recreation but also serves as an educational pathway, with interpretive signs detailing the canal's history and impact. The preservation efforts at Cascade Locks Park ensure that this crucial chapter of American industrial history remains accessible and understandable for future generations. Reddit

A Glimpse into Early 20th Century Commerce: The Mustill Store

The Mustill Store is a unique highlight within Cascade Locks Park, offering a charming step back in time. Housed in a historic storefront, this small museum meticulously recreates a 1930s general store. It provides an intimate look at the types of goods sold and the daily life of a small business during that period. Reddit

Visitors often express delight at the authenticity and detail of the store's interior. It’s a place where you can imagine the hustle and bustle of local commerce, a stark contrast to today's retail landscape. The friendly staff are often noted for their knowledge and passion for preserving this piece of local history, making the visit both informative and engaging. Reddit

You may also like