McKinley Presidential Library and Museum
A blend of presidential history, interactive science, a planetarium, and natural wonders, including a mastodon fossil.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
McKinley Presidential Library and Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A blend of presidential history, interactive science, a planetarium, and natural wonders, including a mastodon fossil.
"More than just presidential history, it's a fun, educational experience for all ages with science and nature!"
📞 Call Before You Visit
Especially in winter, unpredictable weather can affect hours. Call to confirm they're open!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Offers activities for children and older kids, making it a great educational outing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The McKinley Monument
Main Hall
A solemn and echoing dome, offering a quiet space for reflection and connection with history.
Mastodon Fossil Skeleton
Natural History Exhibit
See an authentic mastodon fossil skeleton, discovered right here in Canton, Ohio!
Interactive Discovery Center
Science Exhibits
Engage with hands-on science exhibits, perfect for all ages, including exciting dinosaur displays.
Planetarium Shows
Planetarium
Experience captivating shows that explore the cosmos, presented by entertaining staff.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beyond the President: What to Expect
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to enjoy exhibits without crowds.Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 Call Before You Visit
Especially in winter, unpredictable weather can affect hours. Call to confirm they're open!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Offers activities for children and older kids, making it a great educational outing.
💡 Knowledgeable Staff
Engage with staff; some are incredibly knowledgeable and love sharing insights about exhibits.
📸 Great for Photos
A lovely spot for family portraits, prom photos, and even engagement shoots.
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Call Before You Visit
Especially in winter, unpredictable weather can affect hours. Call to confirm they're open!
👨👩👧👦 Kid-Friendly Fun
Offers activities for children and older kids, making it a great educational outing.
💡 Knowledgeable Staff
Engage with staff; some are incredibly knowledgeable and love sharing insights about exhibits.
📸 Great for Photos
A lovely spot for family portraits, prom photos, and even engagement shoots.
💰 Senior Discounts
Affordable for all, with special discounts available for seniors.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the McKinley Presidential Library and Museum to be a surprisingly diverse experience, extending beyond presidential history to include engaging science exhibits, a planetarium, and natural history displays like a mastodon fossil. While some note the presidential exhibits are less extensive than expected, the knowledgeable staff and interactive elements make it a worthwhile and educational visit for all ages.
"Initially I thought that this museum was primarily focused on William McKinley, turns out this place is a lot more than that. While there is an exhibit on the former president, this museum is more focused on the history of the area instead of just President McKinley. There’s also a planetarium along with a natural history exhibit.
You do not need admission to visit McKinley’s memorial but its hours of admission match those of the museum."
Noah Fargo
"Considering that just a few hours north, President Gerald Ford has an entire floor dedicated to his life, filled with eloquent markers along the way, each one illuminating the presidency, the White House, and the process of American governance, what exists for William McKinley is rather sparse on details or coherent storytelling. For example, over in Niles (where McKinley was born and where a couple of the pictures below were taken), there's a public library, with his name on it, that has nothing to do with him, and an adjacent museum that features a whole bunch of random people, with only a spattering of information about McKinley, his wife, or his family. The same is true when you get to Canton, because a multi-floor building with his name on the outside only gets a sliver of a back wall with information (or artifacts) about McKinley, yet again, as it was in Niles. Other presidents from Ohio have been given much more consistent, cohesive, comprehensive museums (Harding and Hayes being among them, neither of whom were nearly as remarkable in their times as McKinley was in his). What makes this visit worthy is the tomb, where you can quietly enter--because there won't be a crowd--whisper your eulogy in an echoing dome, and feel that you've corresponded, in some ethereal way, with a dead president."
Jeremy Lucas
"Pretty nice place but what made the visit special was the gentleman working on the 2nd floor. He was very knowledgeable about the McKinleys and you could tell he loves chatting with people about the artifacts. The planetarium was nice as well, the gentleman presenting was very entertaining."
Christina E
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located at 800 McKinley Monument Dr. NW, Canton, OH 44708. It's accessible by car, and parking is generally available.
Yes, parking is typically available at the museum. It's a convenient option for visitors arriving by car.
You do not need admission to visit McKinley's memorial itself, but its hours generally align with the museum's operating hours.
While specific accessibility details aren't always highlighted, museums of this nature usually strive to be accessible. It's best to call ahead to confirm.
From North Canton, it's a relatively short drive south to Canton. You can use GPS navigation for the most direct route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, but the museum is generally considered a nice, cheap educational experience. Senior discounts are available. Check their official website or call for the most current pricing.
Operating hours can vary, especially with weather. It's highly recommended to call the museum at 330.455.7043 to confirm their hours before your visit.
Advance booking is usually not required for general admission, but it's always a good idea to check their website or call, especially for special events.
Yes, senior discounts are available. It's worth inquiring about any other potential discounts for students, military, or group rates when you call or visit.
The museum is a great educational experience for groups. Contact them directly to inquire about group rates and booking procedures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond exhibits on William McKinley, you'll find natural history displays (including a mastodon fossil!), an interactive science center, and a planetarium.
Absolutely! It features an interactive Discovery Center with hands-on science exhibits and activities suitable for children of various ages.
The planetarium offers captivating shows about the cosmos, often presented by entertaining and knowledgeable staff.
Yes, the grounds offer outdoor activities, including playgrounds and pickleball courts, making it a nice place for exercise and family fun.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or tripods. It's a popular spot for engagement photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum itself does not typically have a full-service restaurant. Visitors may want to plan to eat before or after their visit.
Canton offers various dining options. You can find local eateries and cafes nearby. Consider checking out places mentioned in local guides for the best recommendations.
It's best to check the museum's policy on outside food and beverages. Many museums allow small snacks and water bottles in designated areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The monument's interior offers a unique, echoing dome for reflective shots. The grounds and exhibits also provide diverse backdrops.
Yes, the museum and its grounds are a popular and beautiful location for engagement photos, especially during golden hour.
While personal photography is usually permitted, it's wise to confirm any specific rules regarding flash, tripods, or professional shoots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Don't miss the impressive mastodon fossil skeleton, which is always a hit with younger visitors. The museum also provides activities for children and older kids, ensuring there's something for everyone. 💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Couples & Photographers
It's a popular spot for engagement sessions, especially during the golden hour, promising beautiful and timeless images. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Presidential Legacy
For those seeking a deeper dive into McKinley's life and times, it's worth noting that his birthplace in Niles, Ohio, also has related historical sites.
A World of Discovery: Science and Nature
+1 Children, in particular, will be thrilled with the hands-on activities and displays, including exciting dinosaur exhibits. A significant draw is the authentic mastodon fossil skeleton discovered locally in Canton, offering a tangible link to prehistoric life in Ohio.
This natural history component adds a rich layer to the museum experience, appealing to a wide range of interests and making the visit educational and engaging for everyone. The Magic of the Planetarium
Whether you're a budding astronomer or simply curious about the night sky, the planetarium shows are a must-see. They add an element of wonder and discovery to your visit, complementing the historical and scientific exhibits.
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