Hunt House Information Center is your ideal starting point for exploring Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a place where scenic trails, rich history, and outdoor adventures all come together.
If you’re planning a visit, the Hunt House Information Center (also known as the Hunt House Visitor Center or Hunt Farm Visitor Information Center) is a great place to begin. Located near Hunt Road and Riverview Road, this welcoming hub offers a wealth of information on park trails, wildlife, and historic sites. Whether you’re heading out for a short walk, tackling one of the park’s best hikes, or biking the famous Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, this is the perfect starting point.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
10-15 Minutes
Spring, Fall
Free
Overview
The Hunt House is more than just a visitor center; it’s a beautifully preserved historic home tied to the legacy of the Hunt family, including early settler John Craig Hunt. Built in the early 1800s, the home once stood at the heart of a working farm and still reflects the area’s agricultural past.
Inside, you’ll find exhibits featuring original furnishings, family records, and stories that highlight the history of the area, from early settlement to the impact of the American Civil War and events like Morgan’s Raid. The first floor showcases the daily life of the Hunt family, while the surrounding grounds connect to other historic buildings and farm structures.
Small sign for the Hunt Farm Visitor Information Center
Hunt House Information Center Plan
To make the most of your visit to Cuyahoga Valley National Park, it always helps to stop at one of the visitor centers early in the trip. Park rangers can help you map out your day, recommend the best things to see, and point you toward hidden gems. Sadly, we were at Cuyahoga during a government shutdown, so we weren’t able to enter the building. We did stop here, though, on our way to Szaley’s Farm and Market.
Getting There
Location
Cuyahoga Valley National Park stretches between Cleveland and Akron, following the scenic Cuyahoga River through rolling hills, wetlands, and deciduous forests.
The park is easily accessible by car, with multiple entry points near Boston Mills, Peninsula, and Bolanz Road. You’ll find a convenient parking lot at Hunt House, making it an easy stop before heading out on the trails.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit depends on what you want to experience:
- Fall: Vibrant foliage and crisp air, perfect for photography
- Spring: Wildflowers bloom and waterfalls like Bridal Veil Falls and Brandywine Falls are at peak water levels
- Summer: Ideal for biking the Towpath Trail and enjoying outdoor adventures
- Winter: Quiet trails and peaceful views across snow-covered landscapes
Early mornings are often the best place for wildlife viewing and avoiding crowds.
Tyler and Ryan listening to some of the outdoor information exhibits
Hunt House Information Center
Who Can Go?
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is designed for everyone. Whether you’re planning a short hike, a family outing, or a full day of exploration, there are accessible paths, stroller-friendly routes, and scenic overlooks for all ages.
The Hunt House trailhead connects to easy, packed limestone trail sections, making it a great option for beginners or those looking for a relaxed walk.
What You'll See
At the Hunt House Information Center in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, visitors step into a quiet, historic farm setting that blends outdoor recreation with hands-on learning. Inside and around the building, you’ll find kid-friendly exhibits about the valley’s natural environment, wildlife, and the area’s rural farming history, often presented through interactive displays and stories that bring the past to life. Just outside, the Towpath Trail passes right by, so you’ll also see cyclists, hikers, and the slow flow of park life moving through the landscape, along with peaceful views of fields, trees, and the nearby Cuyahoga River corridor. It’s both a small interpretive stop and a scenic rest point where nature, history, and trail culture all come together.
What to Bring & Wear
When visiting any national park, it’s always good to make sure you have some basic supplies with you. While this is just a stop at a visitor center, make sure you have packed water, snacks, sun protection, and good walking shoes.
Where to Go
The Hunt House Visitor Center is located along Hunt Road near Riverview Road, close to the heart of the park. It’s easily accessible from both Cleveland and Akron via nearby highways and park entrances. Look for signage directing you to the Hunt House trailhead, where you’ll find parking and direct access to trails.
A view of the Hunt House from across the street in the parking area
How Long Does it Take?
A stop at the information center takes about 10-15 minutes, possibly longer depending on how busy the parking area is. This shares parking with Szaley’s Farm and Market, and that can get very busy, especially on the weekends.
Cost
Admission to Cuyahoga Valley National Park and the Hunt House Information Center is free, making it a great place for budget-friendly outdoor adventures.
Tips for Hunt House Information Center
- Arrive early for the best wildlife viewing and fewer crowds
- Talk to park rangers for up-to-date trail conditions and recommendations
- Combine your visit with nearby highlights like Brandywine Falls or Everett Covered Bridge
- Stop by Boston Mills or Peninsula for food, shops, or special events
- Check for seasonal programming, including ranger talks and environmental review exhibits
- Stay on designated trails to help preserve the park’s natural beauty