Things To Do
in New Philadelphia

New Philadelphia sits along the Tuscarawas River in northeast Ohio, blending small-town charm with a touch of historic grandeur. The downtown area is compact and walkable, lined with brick storefronts, local shops, and cozy cafes. Its roots run deep in early American settlement, with nearby heritage sites and parks revealing layers of regional history.

Visitors can enjoy riverside strolls, family-friendly attractions, and easy access to Amish country and rolling farmland.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Historic Canal Dover
morning
:

Start your journey with a visit to the Canal Dover, where you can take a leisurely walk along the historic waterway. Visit the local museum to learn about the history of the canal and its significance in the area. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local specialties.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint shops and boutiques in the downtown area, where you can find unique gifts and antiques. After shopping, indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the renowned restaurants that feature farm-to-table dishes. Consider taking a guided tour that highlights the architecture and history of the local area.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a dinner at a cozy steakhouse that specializes in local cuts of meat and seasonal vegetables. Afterwards, take a stroll along the canal under the stars, or catch a live music show at a local venue. Wrap up your evening with a nightcap at a craft brewery that offers a selection of locally brewed beers.

day 2
Visit Tuscora Park
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Tuscora Park, where you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes and well-maintained gardens. Walk around the park’s picturesque lake, or relax on a bench and soak in the morning tranquility. Grab a coffee from a nearby kiosk before embarking on your adventures.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon enjoying the park’s various attractions, including a small amusement area perfect for families. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many picnic tables scattered throughout the park. Don't miss out on activities like mini-golf or paddle boating on the lake.

evening
:

As evening falls, join fellow park-goers for seasonal events hosted in Tuscora Park, such as outdoor concerts or movie nights. Delight in a casual dinner at a food truck or a local diner close to the park. Keep an eye out for the dazzling sunset that lights up the landscape.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant$25-40
🏨Hotel room per night$90-160
🚗Taxi 1 mile$1.50-3
🛒Grocery costs (weekly)$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Compact downtown with historic charm
  • Access to nearby Amish country and nature
  • Family-friendly attractions and parks
  • Limited nightlife options compared to big cities
  • Some attractions are seasonal or weather-dependent
  • Parking can be limited in peak periods

Places to Visit in New Philadelphia

Visit one of these nice places.

Downtown Market Street architecture

Brick storefronts and classic storefronts along Market Street provide timeless cityscape photography, especially during golden hour.

Schoenbrunn Village

Historic buildings and costumed interpreters set a picturesque scene for portraits and period-piece shots.

Tuscarawas Riverfront

Riverside views, pedestrian paths, and sunset silhouettes, ideal for landscape and candid photography.

Fort Laurens Memorial grounds

Historic site with open lawns and indicative structures offering calm, historical backdrops.

Culinary Guide

Food in New Philadelphia

New Philadelphia’s cuisine reflects farm-to-table bounty and nearby Amish-country influence, offering hearty American staples, simple bakeries, and regional sweets. Expect generous portions and homestyle flavors, with many spots focusing on seasonal produce and fresh-baked goods.

New Philadelphia Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Buckeye candy

Peanut-butter balls dipped in chocolate, a sweet Ohio classic often found in local candy shops and bakeries.

Must-Try!

Shoofly pie

Sweet, molasses-based pie rooted in Pennsylvania-Dutch and Amish baking traditions, commonly available at bakeries and diners.

Amish-style fried chicken

Crispy, homestyle fried chicken with sides like mashed potatoes and gravy, frequently featured at family-run eateries near town.

Pierogies

Dumplings filled with potatoes and cheese or meats, reflecting local Eastern European influences in casual dining spots.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Downtown New Philadelphia Farmers Market

Seasonal market on select Saturdays with fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

New Philadelphia experiences a humid continental climate: warm summers with humidity, cold winters, and four distinct seasons. Average high temperatures range from the upper 70s to mid-80s in summer and plunge into the 20s to 30s in winter, with regular spring and fall transitions and moderate annual precipitation.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Photography and privacy

Ask before photographing people or private properties, especially in residential areas or Amish communities; be respectful of personal space and quiet zones in parks.

Attire and modesty

Dress modestly when visiting rural areas or farms; avoid loud behavior; greetings are friendly and informal in most settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of your surroundings in crowded areas and parking lots, and lock vehicles. Basic precautions apply: keep valuables out of sight, follow pedestrian signals, and call 911 for emergencies; weather hazards include thunderstorms and winter storms common to the region.

Tipping in New Philadelphia

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the United States, tip 15-20% at restaurants and bars; leave a tip for hotel staff and service workers; tips are customary even for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming trees; volunteer-run markets begin to reopen; bring a light jacket for cool mornings.

Summer

Warm days with occasional thunderstorms; stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities in the morning or evening.

Autumn

Cool-to-moderate days with colorful fall foliage; ideal for walking tours and scenic drives in Amish country nearby.

Winter

Cold with potential snow; some outdoor sites have limited access; indoor museums and cafes provide shelter and warmth.

Nightlife Guide

New Philadelphia at Night

The nightlife scene in New Philadelphia is relaxed and family-friendly, featuring casual bars, local breweries, and live music at neighborhood venues. Expect a small-town vibe with community events, weekend performances, and riverside dining options rather than a large club scene.

Hiking in New Philadelphia

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Fort Laurens Trail

Short, accessible loop near the historic site with informative signs.

Riverview Ridge Trail

Nearby gentle hiking options along the Tuscarawas valley; good for an easy stroll.

Airports

How to reach New Philadelphia by plane.

Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

Major international hub about 2 hours by car; good for long-haul flights and connections.

Akron-Canton Airport (CAK)

Smaller regional airport about 40-60 minutes away; convenient for domestic flights.

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

Approximately 1.5-2 hours away; strong connections and user-friendly facilities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Downtown New Philadelphia is quite walkable, with brick streets, compact shops, and riverfront paths. Outside the core, you’ll need a car to reach most parks and historic sites, but parking downtown is usually convenient for short visits.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Families with children, long-term residents, and weekend visitors.

Retirees

Active senior community with services and clubs around town.

Regional travelers

Visitors exploring Amish country and nearby state parks.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball/softball

Common in local leagues and schools; family-friendly activities on weekends.

Basketball

Indoor courts, rec leagues, and high school events are widely enjoyed.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate; US-250 and SR-21 handle through-traffic but avoid peak commute times; public transit options are limited, so most travelers rely on cars or rideshares.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting New Philadelphia.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can rely on salads, veggie burgers, grain bowls, and sides at most downtown spots; seek out produce-focused cafés and request meatless options when ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available at local clinics and urgent care centers, with hospitals and specialty services reachable in nearby Canton or Akron within a short drive. Always carry insurance information and a list of medications when traveling.

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