Magnolia Travel Guide

Complete travel guide for Magnolia, Ohio, including cultural attractions, natural attractions, must-try food and drinks, where to stay, safety tips, transportation options, and nearby destinations to explore.


Introduction to Magnolia

Magnolia is a small village located in the Canton-Massillon Metropolitan Area in Northeast Ohio. The village is known for its stunning natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and warm hospitality. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a foodie, Magnolia offers plenty of things to see and do. In this guide, we will explore the best places to visit, eat, stay, and shop in Magnolia, along with important travel tips and information.

List of Places to Visit in Magnolia

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. The Magnolia Flouring Mill: Built in 1834, it is the only remaining water-powered flour mill in Ohio. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s industrial heritage.

  2. The Sandy and Beaver Canal: A historic canal that once transported coal and other goods from southern Ohio to Lake Erie. Visitors can explore the canal’s ruins, locks, and towpath.

  3. The Great Trail Festival: A biannual event that celebrates early American frontier life with demonstrations, music, and artisans selling handmade goods.

Natural Attractions of Magnolia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Magnolia Bog: A unique wetland ecosystem that is home to rare orchids, pitcher plants, and other flora and fauna. The nature reserve offers hiking trails and educational programs.

  2. The Atwood Lake Park: A 1,500-acre park that boasts a scenic lake, campsites, fishing, boating, hiking, and biking trails.

  3. The Towpath Trail: A historic trail that follows the route of the Ohio and Erie Canal. It offers beautiful views of the wetlands, forests, and farms along the way.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Magnolia

  1. The Lillian Gish Trail: A moderate 3-mile hike that winds through the woods and along the streams. It is named after the famous actress who grew up in Massillon.

  2. The Stark Parks Trail: A paved trail that spans over 100 miles and connects several parks in the area. It is ideal for cycling, jogging, or walking.

Best Things to Do in Magnolia: Activities and Tours

  1. The Magnolia Vintage Bicycle Ride: A fun event that invites cyclists to dress up in vintage attire and ride through the scenic countryside.

  2. The Magnolia Area Historical Society Museum: A small but informative museum that showcases local artifacts and memorabilia.

  3. The Zoar Village: A National Historic Landmark that was once a utopian communal society. Visitors can see the restored buildings, gardens, and craft shops.

Week-Long Itinerary for Magnolia

Day Activities
1 Visit the Magnolia Flouring Mill and learn about the history of the village.
2 Explore the Sandy and Beaver Canal and hike the Lillian Gish Trail.
3 Take a day trip to the Zoar Village and enjoy the artisan shops.
4 Go boating or fishing at Atwood Lake Park and have a picnic.
5 Visit the Magnolia Area Historical Society Museum and attend the Great Trail Festival.
6 Bike on the Stark Parks Trail and enjoy the scenic views.
7 Go birdwatching at Magnolia Bog and complete your trip with a Waterbike Adventure.

Food and Drink Scene of Magnolia

Must-Try Dishes

  1. The Magnolia Peach Pie: A delicious pie made with locally grown peaches and topped with whipped cream.

  2. The Amish-style Fried Chicken: A delectable crispy chicken with a secret blend of spices.

  3. The Sticky Buns: A breakfast staple in Magnolia bakeries, made with caramel and pecans.

Local Beverages

  1. The Atwood Lake Wine: A local wine made from grapes grown in the nearby vineyards.

  2. The Pearl Valley Cheese Milk: A rich and creamy milk produced by a local cheesemaker.

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

  1. The Atwood Lake Resort: A luxurious resort with a lakeside view, spa, and top-notch amenities.

  2. The Westbrook Guest House: A charming bed and breakfast with cozy rooms and a homey feel.

  3. The Thistledown Country Inn: A beautiful historic inn with a elegant decor and personalized service.

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

  1. The Handmade Soaps: Magnolia is known for its locally-crafted soaps made with natural ingredients and essential oils.

  2. The Pottery: The village has several pottery studios that create unique and beautiful ceramics.

Local Culture and Customs of Magnolia

Magnolia has a rich cultural heritage, with a mix of influences from the Amish, German, and American traditions. The locals are friendly and welcoming and take pride in their community. Visitors are encouraged to respect the local customs and values and explore the diverse heritage of the area.

Best Time to Visit Magnolia

The best time to visit Magnolia is during the late spring or early fall, when the weather is mild and the nature reserves are in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Magnolia

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and values.

  • Explore the natural and cultural attractions.

  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Be loud and disruptive in public places.

  • Ignore the safety guidelines and rules.

  • Disrespect the locals or their customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Magnolia

Magnolia is a safe and friendly village, with low crime rates and a peaceful environment. Visitors are advised to follow the standard safety precautions, such as locking the doors and not leaving valuables in the car.

Health in Magnolia

Magnolia has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors are encouraged to bring their prescription medications and take precautions against possible health issues such as ticks and other insects.

Getting to Magnolia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Magnolia

  1. Akron-Canton Airport: 25 miles away from Magnolia.

  2. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: 60 miles away from Magnolia.

Bus Stations Near Magnolia

  1. Greyhound Bus Lines: The nearest bus station is located in Canton, 18 miles away from Magnolia.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or use a ride-hailing service such as Uber or Lyft to get around the village.

How to Get Around in Magnolia

Magnolia is a small village, and most attractions are within walking or biking distance. Visitors can also rent a car or use a taxi service to explore the area.

Where to Go Next from Magnolia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. The Canton City: A vibrant city known for its pro football hall of fame, museums, and cultural landmarks.

  2. The Tappan Lake Park: A beautiful lake park with a marina, campgrounds, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Magnolia is a hidden gem in Northeast Ohio, with a rich natural and cultural heritage and warm hospitality. Whether you are interested in history, outdoor adventures, or simply relaxation, Magnolia has something for everyone. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the best places to visit, eat, stay, and shop in Magnolia, along with important travel tips and information. Come visit Magnolia and experience the magic for yourself!