Norton Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture and customs in Norton, Ohio. Plan your travel itinerary with this comprehensive guide.


Introduction to Norton

Located in the Akron Metropolitan Area in Northeast Ohio, Norton is a small city that promises visitors an outstanding mix of indoor and outdoor adventures. The city is a hub for history, culture, and exciting outdoor activities, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway or a week-long stay.

List of Places to Visit in Norton

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Norton has an array of cultural attractions that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history. Here are some of the must-visit museums and historical places:

  • The Barberton Historical Society Museum: This museum showcases the history of Barberton and Norton, and it features period rooms with original furniture, vintage photographs, and artifacts.

  • The McKinley Museum: This attraction houses interactive exhibitions about the life of President McKinley, including his time in the military and his presidency.

  • The F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm: This nature preserve has over 104 acres of parkland that feature hiking trails, wildlife exhibits, and gardens.

Natural Attractions of Norton: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Norton’s natural attractions are some of the best in the region, offering visitors opportunities for hiking, biking, and scenic views. Here are some of the best natural attractions in Norton:

  • The O’Neil Woods Metro Park: This 177-acre park has over three miles of trails, which wind through forests, marshes, and fields, making it the perfect destination for hiking and bird-watching.

  • The Portage Lakes State Park: This state park has eight lakes and offers a variety of water sports, including boating, fishing, and swimming.

  • The Norton Greenway Trail: This 4.5-mile trail runs through Norton’s historic district, natural areas, and parks. It is perfect for biking, walking, and jogging, and offers some of the best scenic views in the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Norton

Norton has an array of hiking and biking routes that offer visitors the chance to explore its natural beauty. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Norton:

  • The Norton Greenway Trail: This trail is perfect for hiking, walking, and biking.

  • The Little Turtle Trail: This trail connects the cities of Akron and Barberton and offers stunning views of the Cuyahoga Valley.

  • The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail: This 110-mile trail runs through Norton, and it is perfect for hiking, biking, and running.

Best Things to Do in Norton: Activities and Tours

From outdoor activities to cultural experiences, Norton has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Norton:

  • Explore the Portage Lakes State Park: The park is perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming.

  • Discover the Cuyahoga Valley National Park: This national park has over 33,000 acres of land, and it is perfect for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

  • Go on a Wine Tasting Tour: Norton has several wineries that offer wine tasting tours and breathtaking views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Norton

Here is an itinerary for a week-long stay in Norton:

Day 1 Arrival and check-in at a hotel
Day 2 Visit the Barberton Historical Society Museum and then hike the O’Neil Woods Metro Park
Day 3 Visit the McKinley Museum and then explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Day 4 Go on a wine tasting tour of Norton’s wineries
Day 5 Visit the F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm and then go boating on the Portage Lakes State Park
Day 6 Bike the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Norton

Must-Try Dishes

Norton has a diverse food scene that offers a variety of cuisines. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Portage Lakes Creamery’s homemade ice cream: This ice cream shop makes its ice cream with all-natural ingredients and has a variety of flavors to choose from.

  • Papa Giuseppe’s: This Italian restaurant serves authentic Italian dishes, including pizza, pasta, and meat dishes.

  • The Bucket Shop Cafe: This cafe serves delicious breakfast and lunch dishes, including sandwiches, soups, and salads.

Local Beverages

Norton has a growing craft beer scene, with several local breweries that offer a range of beers and ales. Some of the local breweries to visit include:

  • R. Shea Brewing: This brewery offers a range of beers, including IPAs, stouts, and ales.

  • Mucky Duck Brewery: This brewery has a lively atmosphere and serves a range of beers and ales.

  • The Brew Kettle: This brewery offers a diverse range of beers, including ales, stouts, porters, and IPAs.

Where to Stay in Norton: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Norton has a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Norton:

  • Hampton Inn Akron/Kent Area: This hotel offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and free breakfast.

  • Barberton Inn: This historic guesthouse has seven rooms, each with a unique character, and is located in the heart of Norton’s historic district.

  • Cambria Hotel Akron/Canton Airport: This hotel offers spacious rooms with comfortable beds, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.

What to Buy in Norton: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Norton has several shops and stores that sell unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best places to shop in Norton:

  • The Moonstruck Gift Shop: This gift shop sells unique souvenirs and gifts, including jewelry, clothes, and home decor.

  • The Barberton Antique Mall: This antique mall sells a range of antique items, including furniture, glassware, and collectibles.

  • The Breeders Connection: This store sells unique pet supplies, including dog collars, leashes, and toys.

Local Culture and Customs of Norton

Norton has a friendly and welcoming culture, with a strong sense of community. The city is also known for its rich history and traditions, which are celebrated through various events and festivals throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Norton

The best time to visit Norton is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. The fall season (September to November) is also a great time to visit, as the leaves change colors and the weather starts to cool down.

Do’s and Don’ts of Norton

Here are some things to keep in mind while visiting Norton:

Do:

  • Do explore the city’s natural attractions and outdoor activities.

  • Do try the local food and drink.

  • Do interact with the locals, who are friendly and welcoming.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the city’s natural attractions.

  • Don’t be disrespectful to the locals or their culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Norton

Norton is a safe city, but visitors should take precautions like they would in any other city, especially at night. Be sure to keep valuables out of sight and lock your car doors.

Health in Norton

Norton has several hospitals and medical centers, including the Summa Health System – Barberton Hospital and the Cleveland Clinic Akron General Hospital. Visitors should also remember to bring any necessary medication with them.

Getting to Norton: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Norton

The closest airport to Norton is the Akron-Canton Regional Airport, which is located about 20 minutes away by car. Other airports near Norton include the Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (about an hour away) and the Pittsburgh International Airport (about two hours away).

Bus Stations Near Norton

The closest bus station to Norton is the Barberton Bus Station.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi from nearby cities like Akron or Cleveland to get to Norton.

How to Get Around in Norton

The best way to get around Norton is by car or bike. Visitors can also use the city’s public transportation system or take a taxi.

Where to Go Next from Norton: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Norton is located in a region that offers many exciting destinations and excursions. Here are some nearby destinations to visit:

  • Akron: This city has several cultural attractions, including the Akron Art Museum and the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens.

  • Cleveland: This city has several exciting attractions, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Cleveland Museum of Art.

  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park: This national park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.

Conclusion

Norton may be a small city, but it has plenty to offer visitors. From its extensive outdoor activities to its cultural landmarks and festivals, Norton has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the best of what this charming city has to offer.

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