William McKinley National Memorial - Image 1
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William McKinley National Memorial

4.8
·391 reviews·Canton, United States

A domed mausoleum honoring the 25th U.S. President, William McKinley, featuring 108 steps and historical exhibits.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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William McKinley National Memorial - Image 1

William McKinley National Memorial

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A domed mausoleum honoring the 25th U.S. President, William McKinley, featuring 108 steps and historical exhibits.

4.8
(391 reviews)

"A beautiful location and a cool town, this free tribute offers impressive architecture and views."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Admission! 🎉

Enjoy the monument and grounds without an entry fee.

Wear Comfy Shoes 👟

You'll be climbing 108 steps to reach the top of the monument.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

McKinley's Tomb

McKinley's Tomb

Inside the Monument's Dome

A solemn and impressive resting place for the 25th U.S. President, his wife, and children.

Reddit
Monumental Staircase

Monumental Staircase

Exterior of the Monument

Ascend the 108 steps for panoramic views and a sense of historical grandeur.

TikTok
Library and Museum

Library and Museum

Adjacent to the Monument

Explore exhibits detailing McKinley's life and presidency, though hours can vary.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Conquer the Steps

Prepare for the 108 steps leading to the McKinley Monument's dome. While the views are rewarding, consider mobility challenges as some visitors note the lack of railings can be an issue for those with physical limitations. Reddit

Check Museum Hours

The McKinley Monument offers a free entry experience, but the accompanying museum may have limited hours or be closed. It's wise to check in advance to ensure you can explore all aspects of this historic site. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Fall Mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for steps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The McKinley Monument in Canton, Ohio, honors the 25th U.S. President. With 108 steps leading to his final resting place, it’s a powerful tribute to a leader who shaped America at the turn of the 20th century. #OhioHistory #McKinleyMonument #CantonOhio #PresidentialHistory #HistoricSites #ExploreOhio #HiddenHistory
@spotlightohiomagazine
6K likes • 118.5K views

Free Admission! 🎉

Enjoy the monument and grounds without an entry fee. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes 👟

You'll be climbing 108 steps to reach the top of the monument. TikTok

FALL KICKOFF EVENT ‼️ Saturday OCT 4th @ 9am ⏰ Canton OH, McKinley Monument Steps 📍
@dadisi__tv
4.5K likes • 37.6K views
The William McKinley National Memorial in Niles, Ohio, also has a library and museum. Music: Rio De Janeiro Musician: EnjoyMusic URL: https://enjoymusic.ai
motos_and_minis
1 likes • 49 views

Check Museum Hours 🏛️

The museum may be closed, so verify hours before your visit. Reddit

Scenic Views 🏞️

The top offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding area. TikTok

This whole time I thought Andrew Jackson was his main squeeze but in walks WILLIAM MCKINLEY???? #History #USHistory #mckinley #historyteacher #inauguration #president #news
@antisocialstudies
3.1K likes • 24.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Admission! 🎉

Enjoy the monument and grounds without an entry fee. Reddit

Wear Comfy Shoes 👟

You'll be climbing 108 steps to reach the top of the monument. TikTok

Check Museum Hours 🏛️

The museum may be closed, so verify hours before your visit. Reddit

Scenic Views 🏞️

The top offers beautiful vistas of the surrounding area. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.8
(391 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the William McKinley National Memorial as a beautiful and free tribute to the 25th U.S. President, offering impressive architecture and rewarding views from its 108 steps. Some wish for improved accessibility, particularly railings on the stairs, and recommend checking museum hours in advance.

"Really cool tribute to an assassinated President. His tomb is inside along with his wife and children I believe.
Canton doesnt get the respect it deserves. That was a cool town. I look forward to a return trip someday. Free entry."

Bronson Allen

"We are lucky to have such a beautiful location in our community! I painted live during our 911 memorial walk."

Tracy Dawn Brewer

"I do wish this memorial had a railing on the stars. I have a chronic disease that affects my mobility and with a railing I could have went up, without I could not. It needs to be ADA compliant. Otherwise it’s beautiful!"

Ashley Casey-Swisher

What People Like

Free admission
Impressive monument
Rewarding views

What People Dislike

Lack of railings on steps
Inconsistent museum hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The William McKinley National Memorial is located in Canton, Ohio. It's accessible by car, and parking is generally available nearby. For those using public transport, checking local bus routes is recommended, though specific details can vary. Reddit

Yes, there is typically parking available near the William McKinley National Memorial, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Canton is accessible by major highways. If flying, the nearest major airport is Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), which is a short drive away. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the William McKinley National Memorial offers free admission, making it an accessible historical site for everyone. Reddit

The grounds and monument are generally accessible during daylight hours. However, the interior museum hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website or call ahead. Instagram

The outdoor monument and grounds are typically accessible year-round, weather permitting. Museum hours are more restricted. Reddit

No, tickets are not required as admission is free. However, if you plan to visit with a group, it might be courteous to inquire about group visits. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

There are 108 steps leading up to the dome of the William McKinley National Memorial. TikTok

The monument has 108 steps and some visitors have noted a lack of railings, which can be challenging for those with mobility issues. The museum area may offer more accessibility. Reddit

Inside, you can find the tomb of President William McKinley, his wife, and children. The adjacent library and museum offer historical exhibits. InstagramReddit

While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, the information available at the museum and the monument itself provides a rich historical context. Reddit

Yes, the monument's architecture and the surrounding views offer excellent opportunities for photography. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly within the William McKinley National Memorial itself. Visitors will need to find dining options in the surrounding Canton area. Reddit

Canton offers a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more formal dining. You can find options ranging from classic American diners to international cuisine. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The grand staircase leading up to the monument, the dome's architecture, and the panoramic views from the top are prime photography locations. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted on the grounds and exterior. Check specific rules regarding photography inside the tomb or museum areas. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light can offer beautiful illumination for photographs, especially on the monument's facade. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The William McKinley National Memorial offers a free and educational outing for families. While the 108 steps might be a challenge for very young children or those with strollers, the climb can be an adventure. TikTok The monument itself is a grand structure that can spark curiosity about history and presidents. Consider focusing on the exterior architecture and the views from the top. TikTok

It's advisable to check the museum's hours beforehand, as it may offer more engaging exhibits for children. Pack snacks and water, as there are no concessions on-site. The surrounding grounds can also be a pleasant place for a short walk. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

The William McKinley National Memorial is an excellent choice for budget travelers as admission is completely free. Reddit You can explore the impressive monument and its grounds without spending a dime. The main 'cost' is your energy to climb the 108 steps, which offers a great workout and rewarding views. TikTok

Bring your own water and snacks, as there are no dining facilities on-site. This allows you to control your spending even further. The historical significance and the architectural beauty make it a worthwhile visit that doesn't strain your wallet. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, the William McKinley National Memorial is a must-visit. It's the final resting place of the 25th U.S. President, offering a tangible connection to a significant period in American history. TikTok Explore the tomb and learn about McKinley's presidency, including his role during the Spanish-American War and his impact on economic policy. TikTok

While the monument itself is the primary draw, the adjacent library and museum (check hours) provide deeper insights into McKinley's life and times. Instagram Consider researching McKinley's presidency beforehand to enhance your appreciation of the site. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of William McKinley

William McKinley served as the 25th President of the United States from 1897 until his assassination in 1901. His presidency was marked by significant events, including the Spanish-American War and the adoption of the Gold Standard Act, which aimed to stabilize the nation's currency. TikTok McKinley's policies and leadership shaped America's role on the world stage during a pivotal era. TikTok

His assassination sent shockwaves across the nation, and the construction of this memorial in Canton, Ohio, his hometown, serves as a lasting tribute to his service and sacrifice. The monument is not just a tomb but a symbol of remembrance and respect for a president who navigated the country through a period of immense change. TikTokReddit

Visiting the Monument: A Traveler's Perspective

Visitors often describe the William McKinley National Memorial as a 'cool town' and a 'beautiful location.' Reddit The climb up the 108 steps is a common talking point, with many finding it a rewarding experience that offers a sense of accomplishment and leads to impressive views. TikTok The free entry is a significant plus, making it an accessible attraction for all. Reddit

However, some visitors point out areas for improvement. The lack of railings on the steps has been noted as a potential issue for individuals with mobility challenges, leading to a desire for greater ADA compliance. Reddit While the monument itself is a draw, the museum's operating hours can be inconsistent, so checking in advance is recommended to ensure a complete experience. InstagramReddit

McKinley in Pop Culture and Local Life

The name 'McKinley' resonates beyond historical sites, particularly in Canton, Ohio, where it's strongly associated with local high school sports. The Canton McKinley Bulldogs are a prominent high school football team, with games and homecoming events frequently featured on local social media. TikTok+3 This connection highlights how historical figures and places continue to be woven into the fabric of community life.

Historically, figures like President McKinley have also appeared in discussions about presidential speeches and historical interpretations, sometimes sparking curiosity about their influence. TikTok The monument itself serves as a landmark, a place for community gatherings like memorial walks, and a point of pride for the region. Reddit