Malvern Travel Guide

Plan an amazing trip to Malvern with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in this hidden gem of Northeast Ohio.


Malvern, a serene town nestled in Northeast Ohio, is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by travelers. This charming town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and outdoor adventures. From hiking and biking trails to scenic views and culturally important attractions, Malvern is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Northeast Ohio. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best things to do and see in Malvern, along with helpful tips for planning your trip.

Introduction to Malvern

Malvern is a small town located in Stark County, Ohio, about 90 miles south of Cleveland. This quaint town is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and lush green forests that make it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Malvern is also rich in history, with several museums and attractions that chronicle the town’s past.

List of Places to Visit in Malvern

Malvern has something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or adventure seeker. Here are some of the top attractions in Malvern:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Malvern Historical Society Museum: This museum offers a glimpse into the town’s past, with exhibits showcasing everything from Native American artifacts to antique farming equipment.
  • Sandy and Beaver Canal Museum: This museum tells the story of the Sandy and Beaver Canal, a major transportation route in the 1800s that helped spur the growth of Northeast Ohio.
  • McCook House Civil War Museum: This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the Civil War, with exhibits detailing the life of General Edwin Stanton McCook and the impact of the war on Malvern and Stark County.

Natural Attractions of Malvern: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Mohawk: This beautiful lake is a popular spot for fishing and boating, with several nearby parks and trails for hiking and picnicking.
  • Atwood Lake: Atwood Lake is a popular destination for water sports like boating and fishing, as well as camping and hiking in nearby parks and forests.
  • The Great Trail: The Great Trail is a 7-mile trail that spans from Malvern to nearby towns, offering stunning views of the surrounding hills and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Malvern

For outdoor enthusiasts, Malvern offers several scenic hiking and biking routes. Here are some of the best trails to explore:

  • The Great Trail: This 7-mile trail is perfect for hiking or biking, and has several scenic overlooks of the surrounding hills and forests.
  • Burns Wildlife Trail: This 1.5-mile trail winds through the woods and around a small pond, making it a great spot for wildlife viewing.
  • Atwood Lake Park: Atwood Lake Park has several hiking and biking trails, including the challenging 5-mile Lakeshore Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills.

Best Things to Do in Malvern: Activities and Tours

Malvern offers several activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Malvern:

  • Malvern Ghost Walks: These guided tours take you through the town’s historic district, telling spooky tales of the town’s past and present.
  • Amish Country Tour: Malvern is located near several Amish communities, offering a glimpse into Ohio’s unique Amish culture.
  • Stark County Covered Bridges Tour: This self-guided tour takes you through some of the most picturesque covered bridges in Northeast Ohio.

Week-Long Itinerary for Malvern

To help you plan the perfect trip to Malvern, here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long stay:

Day 1: Arrival & Check-in

Day 2: Visit Malvern Historical Society Museum, Sandy and Beaver Canal Museum, and McCook House Civil War Museum

Day 3: Hiking/Biking on The Great Trail and Burns Wildlife Trail

Day 4: Fishing and Boating at Lake Mohawk

Day 5: Amish Country Tour and Stark County Covered Bridges Tour

Day 6: Hiking and Camping at Atwood Lake Park

Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Malvern

Malvern has several restaurants and bars offering delicious local cuisine and craft beer. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ohio Buckeye Candy: This sweet treat is a local specialty, made from chocolate and peanut butter to resemble Ohio’s state tree, the Buckeye.
  • Sloppy Joe’s: Sloppy Joe’s is a classic American dish that is popular in Malvern, with several restaurants offering their own unique take on this comfort food.

Local Beverages

  • Ohio Craft Beer: Malvern is located near several craft breweries, offering a wide selection of locally made beers.
  • Amish Country Wines: The nearby Amish communities also offer several wineries, with unique flavors and blends that you won’t find anywhere else.

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

Malvern has several accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Malvern:

  • Microtel Inn & Suites: This budget-friendly hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, as well as free breakfast and wifi.
  • Lake Mohawk Vacation Rentals: If you’re looking for a more secluded and scenic stay, consider renting a cabin or vacation home on Lake Mohawk.
  • The Inn at Amish Door: This charming guesthouse is located near several Amish communities, offering a peaceful and relaxing stay with traditional Amish hospitality.

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

Malvern has several unique shops and boutiques, offering locally made crafts, souvenirs, and gifts. Here are some of the best places to shop in Malvern:

  • Malvern Market: This local market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors.
  • Artisans Corner Gallery: This gallery features works from local artists, including paintings, sculptures, and pottery.
  • McCook House Gift Shop: This gift shop offers souvenirs and gifts related to the Civil War and General McCook’s life and legacy.

Local Culture and Customs of Malvern

Malvern is a friendly and welcoming town, with a rich culture and history that is reflected in its museums, attractions, and festivals. The people of Malvern pride themselves on their hospitality and community spirit, often coming together for events and celebrations throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Malvern

The best time to visit Malvern depends on your preferences. If you enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, summer and fall are the best times to visit, with mild temperatures and plenty of events throughout Northeast Ohio. If you prefer a quieter and more secluded stay, winter and early spring offer a peaceful and serene experience, with fewer crowds and stunning views of the snow-covered hills and forests.

Do’s and Don’ts of Malvern

To ensure a pleasant and memorable stay in Malvern, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Explore the town’s natural beauty and outdoor attractions
  • Visit the local museums and historical sites
  • Try the local cuisine and craft beer
  • Interact with locals and learn about the town’s culture and history

Don’t:

  • Leave trash or litter in the parks and trails
  • Ignore traffic safety rules and regulations
  • Be disrespectful or condescending towards the locals and their traditions

Safety and Health

Malvern is generally a safe and healthy place to visit, with low crime rates and several healthcare facilities nearby. However, it’s still important to take safety precautions and practice healthy habits during your stay.

Safety in Malvern

  • Practice standard safety measures like locking your doors and being aware of your surroundings
  • Follow traffic safety rules and regulations
  • Be mindful of weather conditions and potential hazards during outdoor activities

Health in Malvern

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated during outdoor activities
  • Wear sunscreen and insect repellent to prevent sunburn and bug bites
  • Be aware of ticks and the potential for Lyme Disease

Getting to Malvern: Transportation Options and Logistics

Malvern is easily accessible by several transportation options, including air, bus, and car. Here are some of the best ways to get to Malvern:

Airports Near Malvern

  • Akron Canton Airport: This airport is located about 30 miles southwest of Malvern, with several rental car and shuttle options for transportation to and from the airport.

Bus Stations Near Malvern

  • Canton Greyhound Station: This bus station is located about 30 miles northwest of Malvern, with several daily departures to and from major cities in the region.

Other Options

  • Driving: Malvern is easily accessible by car, with several major highways connecting the town to surrounding cities and states.

How to Get Around in Malvern

The best way to get around Malvern is by car, with several rental car options available at nearby airports and bus stations. However, the town is also bike-friendly, with several scenic trails and routes for cycling enthusiasts.

Where to Go Next from Malvern: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Malvern is located near several other cities and attractions in Northeast Ohio, making it a great starting point for day trips and excursions. Here are some of the best nearby destinations to explore:

  • Canton, Ohio: Canton is a vibrant city located about 30 miles northwest of Malvern, offering a wide range of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining options.
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park: This park is located about 50 miles north of Malvern, offering several scenic trails and opportunities for outdoor adventures.
  • Amish Country: The nearby Amish communities offer a unique glimpse into Ohio’s rich cultural heritage, with several tours and attractions available for visitors.

Conclusion

Malvern may be a small town, but it has a lot to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. From the town’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures to its rich history and culture, Malvern is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore Northeast Ohio. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to Malvern, and we wish you happy travels!