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Akron, Ohio: Where Fun is Always on the Menu – Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!

Akron changes character with the season and it pays to plan around that. Boston Mills Ski Resort runs 16 trails and 7 lifts through the winter months. Brandywine Ski Resort adds another 11 trails and 8 lifts nearby. Blossom Music Center holds 19,000 people for summer concerts under the open sky. And Lock 3 Park turns over to an ice skating rink once the cold arrives.

Welcome to Akron, Ohio, a city that runs a broad spread of activities and attractions for all ages and interests. History buff, art lover or outdoor enthusiast, Akron has a version of each. From the artistic side of the city through to the outdoors, Akron covers it.

The artistic side of Akron is one to see for anyone visiting the city. With a working arts scene, you get galleries, museums and public art installations. The Akron Art Museum is the destination for art lovers, running contemporary art exhibitions alongside a permanent collection of over 5,000 works of art. And you can walk the Akron Arts District, which holds many galleries and studios showing local artists.

Outdoor people have plenty here to keep them busy. From hiking and biking in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park to kayaking on the Cuyahoga River, the options run long. And there is the Akron Zoo, which holds over 700 animals from around the world.

Key Takeaways

• Akron offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for all ages and interests.
• Akron’s artistic side is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
• Outdoor enthusiasts will love the many opportunities for adventure in Akron.

Akron’s Artistic Side

Akron is a hub of artistic activity, with museums, galleries and theaters to work through. Here are the places to find in Akron if you are an art lover:

Akron Art Museum

The Akron Art Museum is one to see for anyone interested in contemporary art. With over 5,000 works in its collection, the museum shows regional, national and international art created since 1850. The museum runs strongest in contemporary painting and sculpture, and 20th-century photography. And it holds a serious collection of furniture and textiles, alongside paintings, sculptures and drawings.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

One of the largest houses in the country, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is a historic house museum and one to see for anyone interested in architecture and design. The house was built in 1911 and is a clear example of Tudor Revival architecture. The gardens repay the time as well, with over 70 acres of landscaped grounds to work through. And the estate holds a conservatory, a greenhouse and a carriage house.

Goodyear Theater

The Goodyear Theater is a venue that hosts performances across the board, concerts through to plays to comedy shows. The theater sits in the heart of Akron and is a good place to catch a show. It is known for its acoustics and its architecture, with a fine ceiling and ornate details throughout.

Akron works well for anyone interested in the arts. Contemporary art, architecture or theater, there is a version of each in this city. So grab your camera and your sense of adventure, and get ready to take the artistic side of Akron.

Outdoor Adventures in Akron

Akron runs a broad spread of outdoor activities that suit nature enthusiasts. Hiking, biking or just a picnic, there is plenty to choose from. Here are the outdoor options in Akron:

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

For somewhere to get away from the noise of the city, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the answer. The park sits a short drive from Akron and runs a range of outdoor activities, hiking, biking and walking trails among them. You can also take a picnic by one of the many ponds in the park. And bring your camera, because the park holds some of the finer natural scenery in the area.

Summit Metro Parks

Summit Metro Parks is a network of parks and trails that suits outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking or a slow walk, there is plenty to choose from. The parks sit throughout Summit County and run activities for people of all ages. And you can take a picnic by one of the many ponds in the parks.

Lock 3 Park

Lock 3 Park is worth the time if you are after a good outdoor day. The park sits in downtown Akron and runs a range of activities, concerts, festivals and outdoor movies among them. You can also take a picnic in the park or walk along the Cuyahoga River. And do not miss the ice skating rink in the winter.

Akron holds up as a place for outdoor time. Hiking, biking or just a picnic, there is plenty to choose from. So pack the bags and head to Akron for an outdoor day that fills itself.

Historical Landmarks

Akron, Ohio holds several historical landmarks that repay the time. Here are a few of the busier ones:

Hower House

History people should take the Hower House. Built in 1871, this Victorian mansion holds up. It is filled with period furniture, artwork and other artifacts that take you back in time. And you can take a guided tour of the house and pick up the story of the Hower family, who lived there for many years.

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

Another historical landmark in Akron to see is the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. This 65-room Tudor mansion was built in 1915 by F.A. Seiberling, who founded the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. The house is open to the public, and you can take a guided tour to see the interior and pick up the story of the Seiberling family. The gardens hold up too, with over 70 acres of landscaped grounds to work through.

Indian Signal Tree

For an unusual historical landmark, take the Indian Signal Tree. The tree is believed to have been used by Native Americans as a marker for hunting and gathering. It is over 300 years old and has a distinctive shape that makes it easy to spot. And it sits in the Cascade Valley Metro Park, which is good ground for a hike.

Akron holds a deep history and many landmarks to find. Mansions, carriage houses or other historical sites, something here will land.

Family Fun in Akron

Akron, Ohio works well for families to visit and spend time together. There are plenty of attractions that keep the kids busy and the parents happy. Here are a few of the family-friendly options in Akron:

Akron Zoo

The Akron Zoo is one to see for families in Akron. With over 800 animals from around the world, the place covers plenty of ground. You can get close to the animals by feeding the giraffes or taking a ride on the train. And the zoo runs a playground for the kids to burn off some energy.

Akron Fossils and Science Center

If the kids are taken with fossils and dinosaurs, the Akron Fossils and Science Center is the place. They hold an extensive collection of fossils, dinosaur teeth and a woolly mammoth among them. And the center runs interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids of all ages.

Hale Farm and Village

For something more historical, take Hale Farm and Village. This living history museum gives visitors a look into life in the 19th century. You can watch demonstrations of traditional crafts like blacksmithing and weaving, and take a horse-drawn wagon ride.

Whatever your family is into, Akron has a version of it. Animals through to history, there is plenty to work through. So pack up the kids and head to Akron for a family trip that fills itself.

Sporting Activities

Sports people will get on with Akron. There are plenty of sporting activities to keep you occupied through the visit. Here are the sporting attractions in Akron:

Infocision Stadium

Football people should not miss a game at Infocision Stadium. This 30,000-seat stadium is home to the Akron Zips football team. The stadium is known for its loud fans, so bring your A-game. The atmosphere, the energy and the noise of a live game hold up.

Boston Mills Ski Resort

For winter time, head over to Boston Mills Ski Resort. This ski resort sits a short drive from Akron and runs some of the finer skiing and snowboarding in the area. With 16 trails, 7 lifts and a vertical drop of 240 feet, there is a run here for everyone. And if skiing and snowboarding are not your thing, there is still snow tubing.

Brandywine Ski Resort

Another strong option for winter sports is Brandywine Ski Resort. This ski resort also sits a short drive from Akron and runs 11 trails, 8 lifts and a vertical drop of 240 feet. Beginner or expert, you will find runs here that suit. And if skiing and snowboarding are not your thing, there is still snow tubing.

Football, skiing, snowboarding or snow tubing, Akron has a version of each. Do not miss out. Head to Infocision Stadium, Boston Mills Ski Resort or Brandywine Ski Resort for a good day.

A weekend here does not have to cost much, and the numbers back that up. The Akron Artwalk is a free monthly event showing local artists and musicians. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail costs nothing to walk from end to end. Gorge Metro Park is another free option and it takes a proper hike. And the Econo Lodge Akron keeps the rooms clean at an affordable price.

Live Music and Performances

Akron knows how to run a good night, and there is no better way to take one than with live music and performances. Rock, jazz or classical music, you will find plenty of strong venues to work through in Akron.

Blossom Music Center

Outdoor concert people have to take Blossom Music Center. This outdoor amphitheater sits in Cuyahoga Falls, a short drive from Akron. With a capacity of 19,000, it is one of the larger outdoor music venues in the country. The acoustics hold up and there is not a bad seat in the house. And the venue is surrounded by gardens and a natural wooded setting, which makes it the spot for a summer night of music.

Akron Civic Theatre

For a smaller room, head over to the Akron Civic Theatre. This historic theater has been running since 1929 and has hosted some of the biggest names in entertainment over the years. The Art Deco design of the theater is worth the ticket on its own, and the acoustics are top-notch. Concert or play, you will get a good night out of it.

Blu Jazz

For a more modern take on live music, take Blu Jazz. This jazz club sits in downtown Akron and runs some of the stronger local and national jazz acts around. The club keeps a cool, laid-back feel, and the acoustics hold up. And the food and drinks are top-notch, so you can eat well while you listen.

Whatever kind of live music you are into, Akron will turn up something you take to. So grab some friends, head out to one of these venues, and get ready for a night that stays with you.

Food and Drink

In Akron the food and drink options hold up. Casual through to upscale, there is a version of each.

Akronym Brewing

Beer people should not miss Akronym Brewing. With a rotating selection of craft beers, something here will land. Their menu also runs a spread of pub fare, sandwiches, burgers and appetizers among it. And the room is laid back and welcoming, which makes it a good place to sit with friends or catch a game.

When you get to Akronym Brewing, try their popular “Hakron” Hazy IPA. This brew is made with Citra, Mosaic and El Dorado hops, which gives it a fruity and tropical flavor. And if you are feeling bold, try their “Hakronaut” Double IPA, which lands hard at 8.2% ABV.

But the beer is not the only reason to get to Akronym Brewing. Their food menu holds up just as well, with options like the “Akronym Burger” topped with bacon and blue cheese, or the “Pretzel Bites” served with beer cheese and spicy mustard. And for something sweet, try their “Beeramisu” dessert made with ladyfingers soaked in their “Hakron” IPA.

Akronym Brewing is one to see for beer people and anyone who eats well. So grab a pint and take the laid back room and the food with it.

Accommodation Options

The itinerary is set and the bags are packed, but where are you resting your head at night? Akron runs a spread of accommodation options to fit your budget and preferences.

For a more luxurious stay, take the Hilton Akron/Fairlawn. This hotel runs a heated indoor pool, fitness center and on-site restaurant. And with its position in the upscale Fairlawn area, you are close to shopping, dining and entertainment options.

For a more budget-friendly option, take the Econo Lodge Akron. This hotel runs clean and comfortable rooms at an affordable price. And with its position near the Akron-Canton Airport, you can catch your flight without the stress.

For something more unusual, book a stay at the Courtyard Akron Downtown. This hotel sits in the historic United Building and runs a modern design with nods to the past of the building. And with its position in the heart of downtown Akron, you are within walking distance of restaurants, bars and attractions.

For anyone who prefers the comforts of home, take the Airbnb options in Akron. From small apartments to spacious houses, there is a rental to fit every group size and budget. And with local hosts on the other end, you get insider tips on where to eat, drink and explore in Akron.

Whatever your accommodation preference, Akron has a version of it. So rest easy knowing you have a comfortable place to lay your head after a day working through the city.

Exploring Beyond Akron

You have worked through the things to do and places to visit in Akron. But there is more. The areas around Akron have plenty to offer too. Here are the places to find:

Cleveland

A short drive from Akron, Cleveland repays the time. Known as the “Rock and Roll Capital of the World,” Cleveland is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Music people should not miss this museum. You get to see artifacts from some of the biggest names in music history.

But that is not all Cleveland runs. The city holds a working food scene, with plenty of strong restaurants to choose from. And you can take the Cleveland Museum of Art, which holds an extensive collection of art from all over the world.

Kent State University

History people should take Kent State University. This is where the Kent State shootings took place in 1970. Today you can visit the May 4th Visitor Center to learn more about the event and its impact on the world.

But Kent State University is not only about history. The campus holds up and runs plenty of green space to enjoy. And you can walk around the campus and take the architecture of the buildings.

Other Places to Explore

For a longer drive, there are plenty of other places to explore beyond Akron. Here are some ideas:

• Columbus: Ohio’s capital city has a lot to offer, including the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.
• Pittsburgh: Just a two-hour drive from Akron, Pittsburgh is a city with a rich history and plenty of things to see and do. Check out the Andy Warhol Museum or take a ride up the Duquesne Incline for a great view of the city.
• Niagara Falls: If you’re up for a longer road trip, Niagara Falls is about a six-hour drive from Akron. It’s definitely worth the trip to see one of the natural wonders of the world.

So do not limit yourself to Akron. Get out there and work through what the rest of Ohio has.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some quirky and unique attractions in Akron, Ohio?

Akron holds some genuinely unusual attractions that you will not find elsewhere. Have you heard of the “Rubber Ducks”? Not the yellow bath time toys. We are talking about the Akron Rubber Ducks, a minor league baseball team that plays at Canal Park. And classic car people should not miss the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, a historic estate with a vintage car collection that takes you back in time.

Can you recommend any romantic spots in Akron for couples?

Akron runs plenty of romantic spots that will get your attention. Walk through the gardens at the Akron Art Museum or take a picnic in the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park. And for something you will remember, book a hot air balloon ride with Akron Hot Air Balloon Rides and take the city from above with someone you love.

What are some free or budget-friendly things to do in Akron?

Who says you need to spend a lot of money to have a good time in Akron? There are plenty of free or budget-friendly activities to keep you occupied. Take a hike in Gorge Metro Park or walk the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. And art people should not miss the Akron Artwalk, a free monthly event showing local artists and musicians.

What are some off-the-beaten-path gems to explore in Akron?

For the quieter corners of Akron, we have you covered. Take the Akron Civic Theatre, a well-restored historic theater that hosts concerts, plays and other events. Or head to the Akron Fossils & Science Center, where you can dig for fossils, pick up some geology, and hold a live animal.

Why is the Akron Zoo a must-visit destination?

The Akron Zoo is one to see for animal lovers of all ages. With over 700 animals from around the world, endangered species like snow leopards and Humboldt penguins among them, you get close to some genuinely unusual creatures. And do not miss the new Wild Asia exhibit at the zoo, which runs tigers, red pandas and more.

What makes Akron, Ohio a hidden gem for travelers?

Akron, Ohio may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of travel destinations, but it repays the trip. From the natural country of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park to the deep history and culture of the city, this place covers a lot of ground. And with its friendly locals and laid-back pace, you will settle in fast in this Ohio city.

Frequently asked questions about Akron, Ohio

Which Akron park needs a full day on foot to cover?

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, easily. It sits a short drive from Akron and runs hiking, biking and walking trails right through the valley, with ponds along the way where you can stop for a picnic. Summit Metro Parks spreads the same effort across Summit County on a wider network of trails instead. Those parks take walkers, cyclists and anyone who wants a slower pace. Wear the boots you already trust on a long day out.

Which Akron museum is the right call when it rains?

The Akron Art Museum. It holds over 5,000 works covering regional, national and international art created since 1850, and it runs strongest on contemporary painting, sculpture and 20th-century photography. Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens gives you the historic house tour indoors instead. That one keeps the walking flat and short under a roof the whole way. Save the 70 acres of gardens there for a dry afternoon later.

Which Akron brewery is worth the walk across downtown?

Akronym Brewing, comfortably. The taproom sits downtown with a rotating selection of craft beers and a menu of pub fare that runs to sandwiches, burgers and appetizers. Blu Jazz gives you the live music instead of the beer list. That club sits a few streets away downtown too, so the two of them make one evening. Walk between them rather than moving the car twice in one night.

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