McKinley Monument

Photo by OHventures, April 2013

McKinley National Monument 
800 McKinley Monument Drive NW
Canton, OH 44708
(330) 455-7043

It is pretty remarkable that the 25th President of the United States is buried right here in Canton! Canton was William McKinley’s “adopted” home, having been born in Niles (near Youngstown) and later practicing law in Canton. He lived here when he became Governor of Ohio until he later had to of course move to Washington DC to serve as president! History is rich and deep here at the absolutely stunning and ornate monument (pictured at the beginning of the post) that was built for his final resting place, after being assassinated in 1901. Even if you’re not a history or political nerd like me, you will still appreciate what this building holds and represents. You'll appreciate even more the adjacent museum dedicated to the historical leader.

In addition to all of the architectural splendor and historial aspects the monument brings to the city (and the state as a whole), the McKinley Monument also adds an element of fitness and adventure to the community. Each and every day, rain or shine, one can find any number of individuals or groups of boot-campers running up and down the stairs Rocky Balboa style! Over the years, the 106 stairs at the monument have become a hotspot for health nuts and fitness freaks looking to use the landmark as their very own outdoor public gym! 

Folks will get their cardio fix running the stairs over and over, feeling the burn in their calves, quads and lungs (much like the Fight For Air Climbs). People also get to build muscle by using the landings of the monument as areas to perform sets of push-ups, sit-ups, lunges, and other body-sculpting exercises. I personally joined some physical trainers at the site for some early-morning stair climbs and got my butt kicked! That day, there were over 100 people gathered from local gyms (and as individuals) also making the most of their surroundings.

It is awesome how versatile the McKinley Monument can be for everyone in the area. It's the location for many events throughout the year, including concerts, fireworks, patriotic celebrations (such as 9/11 rememberance cerremonies), and more.