Massillon: History and Trails along the Tuscarawas River

Massillon combines history with trails for a variety of activities. The city sits on the banks of the Tuscarawas River; a historic district, a museum, and several trails are among the features that can shape a stay. When choosing a vacation rental in Massillon, you can consider whether you’re most interested in experiencing the culture or spending time on hiking and cycling trails.

Trails with different features

The Sippo Valley Trail runs for more than ten miles between Massillon and Dalton. Visitors can cycle, hike, walk, or jog there. For much of its length, the trail is flat with gentle inclines and runs parallel to Sippo Creek. Its length, terrain, and range of possible activities give you specific points to consider when planning your outings.

The Olde Muskingum Trail is 5.7 miles long. Its limestone surface is intended for hiking and cycling; alongside it, a wide, paved grass strip is available for horseback riding. One access point is on Forty Corners Avenue in Massillon. If you choose trails based on your preferred activity, you’ll find a different combination of surfaces and uses here than on the Sippo Valley Trail.

Another option is the Congressman Ralph Regula Towpath Trail: this 26-mile hiking and cycling route in Stark County passes through Massillon. In Massillon, the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail follows the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal. The two trail names point to different features: one route is described by its length and course through the county and Massillon, while the other is identified by its historic canal route. This can help you choose between a longer route and an interest in canal history when planning.

History and culture in Massillon

The Massillon Downtown Historic District was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2018 and comprises 91 buildings. The district offers a concrete way to explore the town’s history: rather than focusing on a single building, you can explore an area comprising 91 buildings. Spring Hill Farm is also listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It is also a site on the National Road to Freedom.

Art and history come together at the Massillon Museum. The museum offers free tours for all ages, from kindergarten children to adults. There’s also Do the Mu, a free art or history workshop for children, teens, and adults on the first Saturday of every month. These offerings give families a shared cultural activity that brings both art and history into play.

The Lincoln Theatre is also part of Massillon’s history: on Tuesday, November 23, 1915, it opened as the city’s new movie theater. If you’re interested in cultural history, you can consider this historic cinema opening alongside the buildings of the Historic District and the museum’s offerings as another aspect of the city.

Tailor your stay to your interests

You can choose a vacation rental in Massillon based on the experiences that matter to your trip. If you’re traveling with children, the museum’s tours for all ages, from kindergarten children to adults, and its monthly workshop offer ways for different generations to engage. For active days, you can choose between hiking, cycling, walking, and jogging on the Sippo Valley Trail, the Olde Muskingum Trail, or the Towpath route; the Olde Muskingum Trail also has a separate strip for horseback riding.

For more pages about local communities, you can also explore North Canton, Canton, Alliance, and Navarre.

For the broader travel overview: Stark.