Pro Football Hall of Fame Weekend Itinerary

Experience the ultimate football fan's pilgrimage to Canton, Ohio—the birthplace of professional football and home to the iconic Pro Football Hall of Fame. This three-day itinerary combines immersive football experiences with local dining highlights and complementary attractions for a well-rounded weekend adventure.

Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions

Morning: Travel & Check-In

• Arrive in Canton and check into your accommodations
• Recommended Stay: DoubleTree by Hilton Canton Downtown offers central convenience with shuttle service to major attractions
• Alternate Option: Hyatt Place Canton is located closer to the Hall of Fame

Afternoon: Downtown Exploration (2-3 hours)

• Begin with lunch at Bender's Tavern, Canton's oldest restaurant dating back to 1902
• Take a self-guided walking tour of downtown Canton, including:
  • Centennial Plaza with its NFL-themed installations
  • The Frank T. Bow Federal Building
  • The Stark County Courthouse
  • Canton Arts District public art displays

Evening: Dinner & Entertainment

• Enjoy dinner at Canton Brewing Company, featuring craft beers and a football-friendly menu in a historic building
• If visiting during football season, join locals at the Brewery's Speakeasy for game watching
• Optional: Check the Canton Palace Theatre schedule for evening performances

Day 2: Hall of Fame Day

Morning: Pro Football Hall of Fame (3-4 hours)

• Start early at the Pro Football Hall of Fame when doors open at 9 AM
• Begin with the "Road to Canton" exhibit to understand the Hall's history
• Don't miss the Hall of Fame Gallery with all enshrinee busts
• Experience the immersive "A Game for Life" holographic theater presentation
• Visit the Super Bowl Gallery and rotating exhibits

Lunch: Mid-Visit Break

• Take a lunch break at the Hall's HOF Cafe or enjoy a picnic on the grounds in good weather

Afternoon: Complete Hall of Fame Experience (2-3 hours)

• Continue exploring the remaining exhibits
• Allow time for the Museum Store to purchase memorabilia
• Visit Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium next door
• Explore the developing Hall of Fame Village complex, which may include additional attractions depending on completion status

Evening: Football-Themed Dining

• Dinner at TD's Tailgate Grill, a sports-themed restaurant with extensive memorabilia
• Alternative: Gervasi Vineyard for a more upscale dining experience
• Return to your hotel to rest up for tomorrow's activities

Day 3: Beyond the Hall

Morning: Football Heritage (1-2 hours)

• Visit the McKinley Presidential Library & Museum
• See the "Stark County Football" exhibit highlighting local football history
• Pay respects at the impressive McKinley Monument

Lunch Break

• Enjoy lunch at Basil Asian Bistro in downtown Canton
• Alternative: Heggy's Candy Company for nostalgic sandwiches and homemade chocolates

Afternoon: Choose Your Own Adventure

Option A: More Football (2-3 hours)

• Take a guided tour of the Historic Massillon Tigers Museum (20-minute drive)
• Visit Paul Brown's hometown and learn about high school football tradition

Option B: Canton Culture (2-3 hours)

• Visit the Canton Museum of Art
• Explore the National First Ladies' Library

Option C: Outdoor Recreation (2-3 hours)

• Bike or walk a portion of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail
• Visit Sippo Lake Park for easy hiking trails

Evening: Farewell Dinner

• Enjoy a memorable dinner at Bender's Tavern or Table Six Kitchen + Bar
• Stop for ice cream at Taggarts Ice Cream Parlor, a Canton institution since 1926
• If energy permits, visit a local brewery like Royal Docks Brewing Co. for a nightcap

Seasonal Considerations

Summer (June-August)

• Hottest time of year - plan indoor activities during peak heat
• Enshrinement Week (early August) brings crowds and higher prices but special events
• Hall of Fame outdoor areas are in full bloom

Fall (September-November)

• Football season creates perfect atmosphere for Canton visit
• Moderate temperatures ideal for walking tours
• Beautiful fall foliage enhances outdoor experiences
• Local high school football games available for authentic experience

Winter (December-February)

• Least crowded time to visit the Hall of Fame
• Some outdoor components may be limited by weather
• Holiday decorations downtown provide festive atmosphere

Spring (March-May)

• Gradually warming temperatures
• NFL Draft season brings new exhibits
• Fewer crowds than summer months

Planning Tips

Transportation

• Rental car provides most flexibility
• Major attractions are 5-15 minutes apart by car
• Limited public transportation available through SARTA
• Rideshare services operate throughout Canton

Tickets & Reservations

• Purchase Hall of Fame tickets online in advance
• Make dinner reservations for Bender's Tavern and Gervasi Vineyard
• Check special event schedules that may affect availability

What to Pack

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Camera for photo opportunities
• Weather-appropriate attire
• Team gear for the true fan experience

Money-Saving Tips

• Look for hotel packages that include Hall of Fame tickets
• Visit the Canton Visitors Bureau website for promotional coupons
• Consider a Canton/Stark County Attractions Pass if visiting multiple museums

Customize Your Experience

For Families with Young Children

• Add in a visit to Funtimes Fun Park
• Spend less time at the Hall, focusing on interactive exhibits
• Consider the Pro Football Hall of Fame Family Package

For Serious Football Historians

• Add an extra day for deeper exploration
• Schedule your visit to coincide with special hall of famer appearances
• Consider the Stark County High School Football History Tour

For Couples

• Add dinner at Gervasi Vineyard
• Include a spa treatment at Glenmoor Country Club
• Consider the Romantic Canton Getaway Package