Historical Canal Fulton is a charming small town located along the Tuscarawas River the the Ohio & Erie Towpath Trail. One of the unique things to do in Canal Fulton is to go on a canal boat ride. During the rides, guests will learn about the history of the area and experience first hand what it was like to travel through the canal on a boat pulled by horses.
Canal Boat Rides in Canal Fulton
When you arrive at St. Helena Heritage Park, head into the center to purchase your tickets and check out the historical exhibit. Inside, you’ll learn about the history of the Canalway and of Canal Fulton and watch an informational DVD in the Center’s amphitheater. The staff can also provide details about local businesses, area events, and the current tow path conditions.
When it’s time to depart, you’ll make your way onto the boat where you will be transported back to the 1830’s as a historian welcomes you aboard. During the peaceful hour round trip ride down the canal, the historian will tell you about the history of the canal, the canal boats and the area.
Pro Tip: Arrive early so you can watch as they feed and get the horses ready to pull the boat.
We enjoyed every aspect of the trip. The scenery was beautiful, we had fun waving at the people biking on the trail and at points the historian played some familiar songs on the bango and harmonic. On our way back to the dock, we were given the opportunity to go up to the top of the boat to stand next to the driver. It was fun to get a view from that perspective. If you’ve never been on a canal boat ride before, I highly recommend it. People of all ages were on board that day and everyone seemed to have a great time.
Even if you choose not to ride on the boat, you can still visit the park and we watch the canal boat leaving from or returning to the dock. It’s a fascinating sight to see two horses pulling the boat down the canal.
Fun Facts:
- The canal spans from Cleveland all the way to Portsmouth on the Ohio River, and it was dug by hand.
- Once the boat gets moving, it only weights 50lbs to pull. Therefore, pulling the boat is a fairly easy job for the horses.
- Families would live on the boat for up to 9 months out of the year. The cabin was the size of a walk-in closet.
Tips for Your Visit to Canalway Center & Canal Boat Ride
- Arrive early so you can watch as they feed and get the horses ready to pull the boat.
- For an added adventure, check out our Canal Fulton Scavenger Hunt.
- Back a picnic lunch or plan to eat at one of the local restaurants. All within walking distance from the park.
- If you like ice cream, you’ll want to stop at one of the local ice cream stands. Almost Heaven is our top pick. If you prefer soft serve ice cream, try the Canal Street Creamery (open seasonally).
- Also in St. Helena park is a newly remodeled pirate themed playground.
- If you like biking, bring yours along and take a ride down the Ohio – Erie Canal Towpath Trail.
- The towpath trail is also perfect for walking or jogging
- There are many unique shops (again all within walking distance), including Keillor’s A Teddy Bear Shoppe and The Toys That Time Forgot.
The Canalway Center
125 Tuscarawas St NW Canal Fulton Ohio 44614
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