Canton OH

Canton, Ohio – A city steeped in history and heart, Canton is best known as the birthplace of the National Football League and home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But beyond the gridiron, Canton offers a charming blend of rich culture, arts, and Midwest hospitality. Whether you're diving into presidential history, exploring local galleries, or enjoying a summer festival, Canton welcomes you with open arms and plenty to see and do.

• Population: ~70,000
• Weather: Four distinct seasons; warm summers (70–85°F), cold winters with snowfall (20–35°F).
• Places To Visit: Pro Football Hall of Fame, McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, Canton Museum of Art, Gervasi Vineyard, Palace Theatre.
• Top Activities: Touring local wineries, attending the Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival, exploring historical sites, browsing antique shops, enjoying live music downtown.
• Famous Food: Amish-style fried chicken, pierogis, artisan pizza at downtown eateries, and local brews from Canton’s growing craft beer scene.

Canton, Ohio is known for its deep roots in manufacturing, healthcare, and education. The local economy has grown in recent years thanks to innovations in advanced manufacturing and an increasing demand for skilled healthcare professionals. Below are some of the top career opportunities in the Canton area.

Top 5 Jobs in Canton, OH

Canton, Ohio may not have the beaches of California, but it offers a variety of chill spots where students can unwind, have fun, and take a break from their studies. From parks to cultural experiences, Canton has something for everyone.

Gervasi Vineyard – While it may be known for its wine, Gervasi Vineyard is also a beautiful place to relax. Stroll through the scenic paths, enjoy a delicious meal, or join their events for a great day out.

Blue Water Majesty Museum – Need a break from books? Dive into the world of model ships. This museum is small but fascinating, perfect for a quiet afternoon of exploration.

Pro Football Hall of Fame – Home to football history, this spot offers interactive exhibits and inspiring stories. It's perfect for sports enthusiasts or anyone looking to learn something new.

Taggart's Ice Cream Parlor – Since 1926, this local favorite has been the place for delicious ice cream. Gather your friends for a sweet treat and indulge in their famous sundaes.

Canton First Friday – On the first Friday of each month, downtown Canton comes alive with art, music, and food. It's a lively cultural experience ideal for meeting new people and enjoying art.

Monument Park – Whether you want to go for a walk, have a picnic, or just people-watch, Monument Park is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the greenery.

Canton Museum of Art – Appreciate diverse art collections and participate in events or workshops. It's an enriching experience for any art lover seeking inspiration.

McKinley Presidential Library & Museum – For history buffs, this museum offers an insightful look into American history with engaging exhibits. It's an educational yet fun place to hang out.

Canton, Ohio is a growing hub for higher education, offering a mix of public and private institutions with strong programs in healthcare, business, education, and the liberal arts. Whether students are seeking a two-year degree or a full university experience, Canton provides quality academic choices supported by experienced faculty and strong community ties.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Canton

Stark State College – A leading two-year public college in Canton offering over 230 associate degrees and certificates. It is well-known for its career-focused programs, especially in healthcare, IT, business, and engineering technologies.

Kent State University at Stark – This vibrant regional campus of Kent State University offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees in fields like nursing, psychology, education, and business. Students benefit from small class sizes and close faculty interaction.

Ohio State University Extension – Stark County – While not a traditional degree-granting campus, the OSU Extension provides research-based educational programs that support economic and workforce development in the Canton area.

R.G. Drage Career Technical Center (Postsecondary Department) – Offers adult education and postsecondary certifications in practical career fields like health science, engineering, and public safety. It is ideal for adult learners seeking hands-on, career-based learning.

Canton City Schools Adult Career and Technical Education – This public institution offers adult education and certification programs tailored to workforce needs in healthcare, construction trades, and IT, helping adults gain employment-ready skills quickly.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Canton

Walsh University – A private Catholic university known for its compassionate learning environment and programs in healthcare, business, education, and criminal justice. Its nursing and physical therapy programs are especially popular.

Malone University – A Christian liberal arts university offering degrees in education, business, nursing, and social sciences. It promotes ethical leadership and a values-based education that prepares students for meaningful lives and careers.

Aultman College of Nursing and Health Sciences – A specialized private college affiliated with Aultman Hospital. It focuses on high-demand careers in nursing and healthcare with a strong emphasis on hands-on clinical training and small faculty-to-student ratios.

Herzing University – Akron Campus (Accessible to Canton students) – While not located directly in Canton, Herzing’s Akron campus is easily accessible and offers programs in nursing, healthcare management, and technology, serving many students from the Canton area.

University of Mount Union (nearby in Alliance, OH) – Less than a 30-minute drive from Canton, Mount Union is a highly regarded private liberal arts university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including engineering, business, and athletic training.

Canton, OH, is home to several excellent high schools that prepare students for college, careers, and community leadership. With a mix of high-performing public schools and respected private institutions, students in Canton have access to strong academic programs, dedicated educators, and a variety of extracurricular opportunities.

Top Public High Schools In Canton, OH

• GlenOak High School – Part of the Plain Local School District, GlenOak is known for its outstanding arts program, college prep courses, and career tech opportunities.
• Jackson High School – Located in nearby Massillon, this school consistently ranks among the best in the region, with high academic performance, excellent sports teams, and strong community support.
• Lake High School – Lake Local Schools offers rigorous academics, AP courses, and a well-rounded student experience with arts and athletics.
• Perry High School – This school in the Perry Local School District offers a solid academic program with a wide range of extracurricular and career-focused options.
• Hoover High School – Part of the North Canton City School District, Hoover is known for strong academics, advanced placement offerings, and student involvement in STEM and the arts.

Top Private High Schools In Canton, OH

• Canton Central Catholic High School – A respected Catholic school offering faith-based education, college preparatory curriculum, and a supportive community environment.
• St. Thomas Aquinas High School – Located just outside Canton, this co-ed Catholic school offers a focus on values, academics, and leadership development.
• Heritage Christian School – This private Christian school provides a strong Biblical foundation alongside academic growth from a K-12 perspective, including high school.
• Horizon Science Academy – Canton – A STEM-focused charter school offering hands-on learning, college readiness, and science and technology emphasis.
• Canton Montessori School (Upper Grades) – While primarily known for early education, Montessori methods in upper grades provide independent learning and critical thinking for high school students seeking a unique learning path.

Canton, Ohio may be best known as the birthplace of professional football and the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but the city does not currently host any major league professional sports teams. However, it has a rich sports culture and is close to several professional teams located in nearby cities like Cleveland and Akron.

🏈 Football – Hall of Fame City and Minor League Teams

• Canton Bulldogs – The original Canton Bulldogs were a professional football team in the early days of the NFL. They won NFL championships in 1922 and 1923. The team no longer exists, but their legacy lives on at the Pro Football Hall of Fame, which celebrates the history and greatness of the sport.
• Canton Charge – Although this team has moved, the Canton Charge were a NBA G League affiliate of the Cleveland Cavaliers from 2011 to 2021. The team played at the Canton Memorial Civic Center and contributed to the development of future Cavaliers stars. In 2021, the franchise relocated to Cleveland.

🏀 Basketball – Nearby Influence

• While Canton does not currently have a major basketball team, it's only one hour from Cleveland, home of the Cleveland Cavaliers of the NBA. This makes it easy for fans in Canton to attend games and follow top-level action. The close link between the Canton Charge and Cavaliers helped deepen the local basketball connection over the years.

⚾ Baseball – Minor League Action

• Canton-Akron Indians – From 1989 to 1996, the Canton-Akron Indians served as the Double-A affiliate of the Cleveland Indians. They played at Thurman Munson Memorial Stadium in Canton before moving to Akron and becoming the Akron RubberDucks. This minor league team has been a vital part of baseball development for the region.

🎖️ Legacy and Sports Tourism

• Pro Football Hall of Fame – Canton’s most iconic sports attraction is the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Recognized worldwide, it honors the greatest players, coaches, and contributors in football history. Each summer, the city hosts the Hall of Fame Game and enshrinement events, bringing fans and former pros to the area in a huge celebration of the sport.

While Canton, Ohio does not currently have big-league sports teams, its deep football heritage, connection to area teams, and minor league legacy make it an important city in the landscape of American sports.

Canton, Ohio may be best known as the home of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but there's so much more to this vibrant city. Rich in history, sports culture, and Midwestern charm, here are 10 fun facts about Canton that might surprise you:

1. Pro Football Hall of Fame – Canton is famously the birthplace of the NFL and has been home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame since 1963.
2. Presidential Ties – President William McKinley lived in Canton and is buried there at the stunning McKinley National Memorial.
3. Birthplace of the NFL – The National Football League was founded in Canton in 1920 at a now-famous Hupmobile showroom.
4. Football Fan Fest – Canton hosts the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival every year, drawing football fans from all over the country.
5. First Professional Football Team – The Canton Bulldogs were one of the NFL’s original teams and even won back-to-back championships in the 1920s.
6. National First Ladies’ Library – Canton is home to the only museum in the nation dedicated to the lives of America's first ladies.
7. Arts and Music Scene – Canton's Arts District is packed with galleries, murals, and regular art walks that showcase local talent.
8. Blue-Collar Roots – Once a major manufacturing center, Canton played a big role in steel production and industrial innovation during the 20th century.
9. Diverse Architecture – From historic Victorian homes to modern downtown renovations, Canton offers a wide array of beautiful buildings.
10. The Candy Icon – Did you know the famous Life Savers candy was once partially produced in Canton? That's a sweet piece of trivia!