Boston Mill Visitor Center at Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park spans 33,000 acres between Cleveland and Akron, hugging the path of northeast Ohio’s famously crooked river. Yet for years it didn’t have a clearly defined visitor center for travelers who wanted to learn about the park’s popular sites.

In 2019, the Boston Mill Visitor Center opened its doors at the intersection of Boston Mills Road and Riverview Road. What once was a dilapidated company building for the Cleveland-Akron Bag Co. paper mill is now a restored and convenient hub for both first-time and frequent park visitors.

Along with additional parking for those who want to stop in and consult with a park ranger and grab a map prior to heading out to explore, the visitor center has a graveled courtyard with a large welcome sign perfect for photo opportunities and an observation deck that offers a view of the Cuyahoga River as well as the chance to catch a glimpse of the wildlife that lives along it. Travelers should also check out the exhibits inside the visitor center, where a wall-size map of the park and displays cover the history and milestones that shaped both the Cuyahoga Valley and the evolution of the park itself.

Located in what once was known as the village of Boston during the heyday of the Ohio & Erie Canal, the visitor center is located next to Boston Mill Station, a train depot that was moved back to its original location as part of the project (allowing riders of the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad to board and depart the excursion line without having to cross the street from the visitor center).

A short walk away, the Boston Store sells sandwiches, ice cream and packaged snacks. From there, hikers can head over to the historic Stanford House to make a 5-mile, round-trip trek to the 60-foot Brandywine Falls. 

6947 Riverview Rd., Peninsula, OH, 330/657-2752, nps.gov/cuva