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Parks #5 in Canton, Ohio

McKinley Memorial Park

4.6 · 1,173 reviews
A somber and reflective historical site.
McKinley Memorial Park, 800 Mc Kinley Monument Dr NW, Canton, OH 44708, United States
Interesting facts
1

The monument's 108 steps were designed to be climbed by visitors to reach the presidential tomb.

2

The interior of the tomb contains two sarcophagi, holding William McKinley and his wife, Ida Saxton McKinley.

3

The monument was funded through public donations from over one million citizens across the United States.

4

The site was dedicated in 1907, six years after McKinley's assassination.

5

The park grounds were designed by landscape architect Harold A. Caparn.

6

The monument is built into the side of a hill, originally known as Monument Hill.

7

The museum on-site features a collection of fossils from the local region.

8

The site includes a planetarium that offers daily astronomy programming.

Overview

McKinley Memorial Park serves as the final resting place of the 25th U.S. President, William McKinley. The site centers on a massive neoclassical mausoleum perched atop a hill, accessible by a prominent staircase of 108 steps. The park grounds encompass the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, which details the life and assassination of the president. The monument design features a circular tomb constructed from pink Milford granite. The surrounding park area includes native woodlands and walking paths that connect the memorial to the museum facilities. The site serves as a historical repository for artifacts related to Canton's industrial history and McKinley's political career.

Photo spot

The base of the grand staircase looking upward toward the memorial dome.

Insider tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes to manage the extensive staircase leading to the monument.

Visit the museum exhibit on the first floor before ascending the steps to gain historical context.

Check the local weather forecast, as the monument area is largely exposed to the elements.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to climb the exterior walls of the monument; use the designated stone staircases only.

Good to know

The museum and monument areas may be closed on major federal holidays; check local updates for seasonal grounds maintenance.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor while inside the mausoleum.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2-3 hours
Best time to visit
Autumn for fall foliage, as the hillside park provides expansive views of the changing leaves.
Address
McKinley Memorial Park, 800 Mc Kinley Monument Dr NW, Canton, OH 44708, United States
40.807, -81.391
Get directions
Details
Key exhibitsPresidential artifacts, McKinley assassination history, and regional fossil collection
Shade & rest areasLimited shade near the monument; wooded walking paths provide natural cover.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Autumn for fall foliage, as the hillside park provides expansive views of the changing leaves..

The base of the grand staircase looking upward toward the memorial dome.

Close by you'll find Pro Football Hall of Fame, McKinley Presidential Library & Museum, Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium.