Howe Meadow

Howe Meadow is a grassy outdoor event field in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, best known as the seasonal home of Cuyahoga Valley Farmers Market. The tree-lined field has also hosted summer concerts, with visitors dancing, picnicking and listening outdoors. Come when the market or a scheduled event is the reason for your stop; this is a gathering venue rather than a permanent exhibit.

From May through October, the market is held outdoors here; from November through April it moves inside to Old Trail School. It began in 2022 as a nonprofit park-partner effort connecting visitors with nearby growers and makers, with vendors coming from within 100 miles. Stalls list seasonal produce, ethically raised meat and eggs, freshly ground grains, flowers, small-batch coffee and loose-leaf tea, along with vegan and gluten-free options. The mix changes week to week, so there is no fixed menu to plan around.

The Rhythm on the River concert series has brought music and dancing to the meadow. The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad also held its Festival of Steam here in 2024, showing how the open field can host different kinds of programs. Check the event calendar before making a detour; the appeal depends on what is scheduled.

The surface is mostly unpaved turf, with uneven grass and dirt that can turn muddy after heavy rain, especially in spring. Portable toilets are provided during market events, and the operator recommends bringing water. Designated accessible parking avoids a small slope at the main entrance, but the field itself is still uneven rather than a paved route.