27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Akron (Ohio)

Do you want to travel back in time? Do you want to have a feel about the old and modern era?, there are just so many things to do in Akron.

Akron, Ohio, is not just a popular tourist destination in the United States, but throughout history, Akron has been known for farming, and while this has changed with the modern world, the farming culture still exists in Akron.

This is a great city to get yourself filled with historical landmarks, fun activities, sports, etc.

The city is so full of hidden gems.

And if you enjoy arts, you are in luck, as there are so many art galleries, art museums, and a whole lot of artifacts just waiting to be seen.

So, if you’re looking for something fun to do, don’t worry, you will be filled to the brim.

Let’s take a look at some of Akron’s top attractions.

Things To Do In Akron

1. Summit Artspace

If you’re a working artist or you have an interest in art, then this place will interest you a lot.

Summit Artspace is home to artist studios, creative companies, and five galleries, each of which hosts four new shows per year. They also offer public activities that connect people to local artists and foster a healthy, diverse, and lively arts and culture community.

An interesting opportunity to view local, original art.

Both studio and gallery space are available, and some of the resident artists offer classes. Housed in what once was the main library, the space is several floors in a long narrow building that is fully accessible for the differently-abled.

They have a lot to offer you. It’s also one of the best ways to connect and network with other artists in an area that is becoming a very trendy and respected community.

In particular, its Art Appreciation Day is a terrific chance to see a wide range of artwork.

On Saturdays, the gallery offers free classes to anyone interested in gaining hands-on experience.

Emerging artists from the area are welcome to use the gallery’s studios, workshops, and courses.

Address: 140 E Market St, Akron, OH 44308, United States

2. Cascade Valley Park

The Summit Metro Parks system includes the Cascade Valley Park, which is a popular destination in Akron, Ohio.

The park’s name comes from the River Cascades, which may be found throughout the park. It’s a valley about 130 feet above the river’s level.

This is a beautiful park. The trail is paved and only a half-mile long, but there are connecting paths that go much further and are hilly.

There are a lot of nice riverbanks to relax on that are not full current even when it rains a ton. It is super fun for kids and dogs.

This park’s view of Northern Ohio has attracted a large number of tourists, and it is this perspective that makes the park so interesting.

The best part of the trail is the overlook. It’s a very sturdy walk over an extremely beautiful cliff.

If you’re in Akron, Ohio, make sure to stop by this attraction.

Address: 837 Cuyahoga St, Akron, OH 44313, United States

3. Brandywine Falls

This is an exceptionally stunning location to visit!

Brandywine Falls is located within Cuyahoga Valley National Park and measure over 65 feet.

The waterfall is so beautiful! It looks like a bridal veil flowing through the water.

If you want to go for an enjoyable hike with your family, Brandywine falls is one of the best to go. The way the trail is carved out makes you feel like you’re in the front row of an I-Max movie, but in real life.

As you progress along the route, you’ll feel as if you’re entering a completely different universe. It’s almost incredible to imagine that the hustle and bustle of city life is only a few kilometers away.

There are some stairs to get to the bottom vista point, but they are not very difficult and definitely worth going to as the pictures are beautiful.

The boardwalk goes all the way to the top of the falls, but the bottom point is where you’ll see most of the beautiful pictures of the falls.

It also pays homage to its past by retaining a couple of the buildings that were once used to harness the falls’ water power nearly a century ago.

Brandywine Falls is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Address: 8176 Brandywine Rd, Northfield, OH 44067, United States

4. Lock 3 Park

Lock 3 park, which opened in 2003, is one of the most amazing things Akron has to offer. It has been a site dedicated to excitement in downtown Akron, Ohio, throughout the summer and winter.

Lock 3  hosts a weekly farmers’ market, community activities, and some of Akron’s largest festivals, and it is a fantastic place for concerts.

There is a large lawn area and most people bring their own folding chairs or blankets to sit on.

For the foodies, there are food and alcohol/beverage trucks. If that doesn’t interest you, there is also a building that sells food and alcohol/beverages and this building has real bathrooms in it.

There are many restaurants within walking distance too. The sound is excellent and most concerts are free.

On the 4th of July, this venue will stage a fireworks show as it hosts Akron officials on this DA.

The excitement doesn’t end when the weather turns cold. November – January, Lock 3 hosts Ohio’s largest outdoor ice skating rink, Polar Putt, and more.

This center also has the Polar Cub Rink, the Reindeer Run sledding hill, and much more.

The Downtown Holiday Lighting Ceremony, which sees this city erupting with some beautiful fireworks, is a great way to start the season.

This is one of the fascinating things to do in Akron, Ohio, as well as one of the enjoyable places to visit. You can always give yourself some good treats all year round.

Address: 200 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308, United States

Want to see more Ohio cities? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Elyria, things to do in Toledo, and things to do in Canton! 

5. Akron Zoo’s Wildlife

The Akron Zoo was established in the early 1900s and has grown through time.

It began with simply two brown bears for tourists and has now grown to include a variety of animals.

Such a fun place to spend a few hours! It’s not a huge zoo, but perfect for a shorter trip, or for smaller kids.

It has its own children’s zoo, which houses a variety of animals.

There is also an on-site museum with a collection of natural history artifacts.

It is large enough to keep you entertained for hours but small enough that you can do it all in 3 hours.

There’s a variety of animals, with the lemurs, gibbons, otters, and flamingos being some of the amazing animals to watch.

There’s also a small aquarium in the building with the food court that is really cool.

The staff all are extremely friendly and are pretty darn knowledgeable too.

Everything is really affordable (from the admission to snacks to the carousel ride).

In short, they even have little posted spots for stretches and light workouts if you like doing that.

Address: 500 Edgewood Ave, Akron, OH 44307, United States

6. Springfield Bog

If you enjoy flora and grasslands, a visit to the Springfield Bog of Akron should be top on your list of things to do in Akron.

Springfield Bog Metro Park, which opened in 2011, is such a nice place so it is not just a simple stroll through the countryside.

You will find a large number of prairie plants here. This area is a haven for grassland birds, as you’ll notice many of them here.

You can also choose to hike in this area, which is ideal for some unique Akron, Ohio activities.

The trail is easily accessible from the parking lot, which is located directly off the road.

The trail winds across a grassland environment, taking you far enough away from civilization that you can no longer hear or see the few nearby buildings.

There’s just enough incline to keep things interesting, as well as an observation balcony that looks out over another bog for birdwatching and another that looks out over a secret pond. Every season is beautiful, and some plaques tell the story of the area.

Address: 1400 Portage Line RD, Akron, OH 44312, United States

7. Akron Police Museum

Have you ever wanted to have an up-close view into the world of police and how they investigate crimes?. Well, you are in luck as this fantastic museum offers a free tour of the Akron police department and its history.

The Akron Police Museum has a collection of confiscated weaponry, as well as gambling and narcotics artifacts.

Patches, badges, logbooks, news clippings, confiscated firearms, and a variety of police equipment are on display at this museum, which commemorates the history and evolution of the Akron Police Department from its earliest days to the present.

It also has counterfeit money and police-related items such as uniforms and guns on display. Hundreds of antique pictures are also on display.

A vintage 1965 Harley-Davidson police motorcycle and keys to the original 1890 jail cell are also on display at the museum.

Even today, this majestic beauty reigns supreme.

Except on weekends, the museum is open every day of the week.

Address: 217 S. High St. Mezzanine Level, Akron, Ohio 44308, United States

8. Hower House, Akron

If you want to spend some time looking at antiquities and rare treasures, Hower House should be on your list of things to do in Akron.

Hower House, which is on the National Historic Landmark registry, is generally one of the finest and best-preserved specimens of its architecture in the country.

You must make this a stop on your sightseeing trip to Akron.

In addition, this magnificent property is filled with one-of-a-kind artifacts and furniture acquired by the Hower family on their global travels.

The House is open 11 months of the year and has a wide range of exhibitions and programs.

They are open to the public for viewing. Private and group visits are also available throughout the year. The house hosts unique activities and exhibits, so keep an eye out for those as you plan your trip to Akron.

Address: 60 Fir Hill, Akron, OH 44304, United States

9. Perkins Stone Mansion & John Brown House

This mansion, which was once home to the son of one of Arkon’s founding fathers, General Simon Perkins, is now a popular tourist attraction in Akron, Ohio.

As one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in Ohio, the Mansion is now a historical house museum.

The objects and rooms bring to life the Perkins family’s lifestyles over three generations.

You can also stop by the John Brown House, which was erected by Salmon Hoisington and Benjamin O. Greene in 1830.

It was known to be occupied by the Perkins family while their Stone Mansion was being built, and it was rented by the John Brown family in 1844.

They also interpret the history of Akron and Summit County from Akron’s founding to the turn of the century.

When you visit these museums, you will be able to see vintage clothing from their era, as well as toys and other items linked with these families.

Address: 550 Copley Rd, Akron, OH 44320-2324, United States

Looking to see more of Ohio Cities? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Findlay and things to do in Sandusky!

10. Blu Jazz+, Akron

Are you a jazz lover? then here perfect date night venue for you.

BLU Jazz+ is a stunning live music venue in the heart of the Historic Arts District.

There are some of the top jazz showcases in the country here, as well as a stunning gallery dedicated to jazz photography and a live music venue.

Artists this club draws never fail to wow and inspire their audience, and the service is always accommodating, attentive, and friendly.

In fact, you can see some of the best local jazz talent perform here, as well as relax in the bar area or order food from the onsite restaurant, which serves tapas and other light meals.

Blu plate has a good assortment of dishes to satisfy the palate, and the bar has a wide variety of brews and local cocktail concoctions.

This is a place to take an old friend and catch up. A place to discover and treat yourself.

Do yourself a favor and spend an evening enjoying the sounds and sights at this venue.

Address: 47 E Market St, Akron, OH 44308, United States

11. Portage lakes state park

This is one of the nice places to spend a summer evening.

Portage Lakes State Park‘s multiple bodies of water provide visitors with a wide range of outdoor recreational opportunities.

Swimming, boating, and fishing are all available here.

If birds are your thing, you are in luck as these wetlands attract waterfowl and shorebirds, providing windows for hunting and pleasing viewing.

If you also enjoy camping, this location is also suggested due to it large number of camping sites.

The waterways around here are also accessible by boat. So all you have to do is find a private marina and rent a boat to go exploring.

Address: 5031 Manchester RD, Akron, OH 44319-3909, United States

12. Kent State University

To the art lovers and enthusiasts, Kent State University, with its galleries and art exhibitions, will wow and keep you astounded.

The university has eight galleries and a variety of exhibitions in these galleries.

You will not be disappointed by the museum’s extensive collection of artworks, which includes furniture, textiles, glassware, decorations, and paintings.

With both static and revolving shows, Kent State University is where you go if you want to immerse yourself in the world of arts.

These works are from the early eighteenth century, however, there are also contemporary works on display

This should be on your list of great things to do in Akron, Ohio if you are an art lover.

Address: 800 E Summit St, Kent, OH 44240, United States

13. Stan Hywet Hall And Gardens

If you enjoy historic homes and gardens, this is a must-see.

Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens is a historic house museum in Akron, Ohio. The estate contains gardens, a carriage house, a greenhouse, and the mansion itself. This is one of America’s largest mansions, and it is now designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Outside the main home is the lovely green English Garden.

Ellen Shipman developed it, and it’s one of the few Shipman gardens open to the public.

You can enjoy a guided tour of this vast estate of one of Akron’s and the United States’ most prominent individuals.

There is also a playground area and butterfly area that the kids

If you want to visit, make sure you go between April 1st and December 30th, as this is the only time the grounds are open to the public.

Address: 714 N Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303, United States

14. The Akron-Summit County Public Library

Do you want to spend time with some of the best books in our world? Visit the Akron-Summit County Public Library.

The Akron Summit County Library has a vast selection of books, magazines, research materials, kids’ books, community events, and services they offer.

They also have a large variety of books covering a wide range of topics, including Politics and Business, Culture and AV, Science and Technology, Magazines and Newspapers, Special Citations, Teens Room, Children’s Library, and more.

They’ve made a reputation for themselves by managing 18 branches of this library throughout the city of Akron.

Their headquarters, which is considered as one of the top public libraries in the United States, is located in the middle of downtown Akron, so there are plenty of places to eat nearby because you might end up spending plenty of time here. The huge selection of books will definitely wow you.

There are several public events, such as free movie nights, as well as meeting tools, also rooms to rent, for businesses and organizations.

This library is well-known for providing excellent customer service, the staffs are really helpful.

Talking about latest technologies, the library is up to date. With green screen and recording studios, vinyl and 3D printers, a laser engraver, internet connectivity, and more, they keep on the bleeding edge of technology.

Address: 60 S High St, Akron, OH 44326, United States

15. John S. Knight Center

The John S. Knight Center is a fantastic venue in downtown Akron that hosts a variety of fantastic concerts and performances.

This is a decent event center.

Dance recitals, classical concerts, and pop music acts have all been held at the center over the years, so whatever your tastes, there is something for you here.

You could even choose to host a conference here if it’s not a large conference.

The staffs are very professional and the size of the rooms are pretty good.

When you’re in town, make sure to check the local listings so you don’t miss a performance.

Address: 77 E Mill St, Akron, OH 44308, United States

16. Akron Brewing

Being in Akron just feels like home, as almost everything needed to satisfy oneself is available here and one of such is this brewery. For those that have a soft spot for beer, this is a great place.

This is a well-known brewing firm in Akron that sells a wide range of good lagers to locals and visitors alike at a reasonable price.

They strive to maintain a high-quality environment and standard services in order to provide the finest possible service to their consumers.

They have solid beers, great bartenders, and a wonderful space with a great patio that overlooks Market St.

Head to their bar if you wish to enjoy a beer. You could also order big quantities of good beers from their store in Akron, Ohio.

Address: 58 E Market St, Akron, OH 44308-2002, United States

17. Akron Civic Theater

The Akron Civic Theater is a beautifully preserved community institution that hosts a variety of entertainment events across the Akron area.

This place is such an amazing place to visit! Even if you don’t care about the music, drama, or any other form of performing arts — just come and see how beautiful this place is.

Walking into the main lobby of this theatre will pop your eyes open and the interior of the hall will blow your mind out.

It has featured a variety of different types and genres of entertainment for as long as it has been in operation. A variety of performances, including ballet, dramas, and concerts, are also available.

This theater has very comfortable seating, with descending seats, so the person behind you has a clear view.

In particular, this theater is one of just five atmospheric theaters in the United States, making it a must-see.

It is definitely worth coming to Akron just to see this wonderful place!

Address: 182 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308, United States

18. Akron Children’s Museum

if you want to organize a play date without having to clean for hours or you want a terrific location to go to if you want your kids to experience new things, then Akron children’s museum got you.

In addition, the numerous interactive exhibits set up for their exploration will delight children. You’ll also be greeted by paintings of various characters on the walls as you enter the museum.

With its abundance of inventiveness and imagination, this is a fun atmosphere for people of all ages.

There’s an indoor picnic area for bringing your own food, easy access to bathrooms, a parking deck, other attractions, and a snack shop nearby.

A bit free-range in design, kids can explore, relying mostly on guardian supervision.

Art creation, a little farmers’ market where kids may fill up their shopping baskets, derby car racing, and many other activities are available to youngsters here.

This is a fantastic opportunity for creative play, imaginative play, and simply getting out from behind a screen.

They also do a fantastic job with birthdays.

Individuals above the age of 12 months pay $5 to enter, while infants are allowed free of charge.

Visiting days for this museum are between Tuesdays to Fridays between 10 am and 4 pm, but on Saturdays and Sundays, they are open between 10 am and 5 pm.

Address: 216 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308, United States

19. Goodyear Theater

How about some amusement while you are in Akron?. This theatre might just be the right place.

Goodyear Theater is a very well renovated early 20th-century theater with an excellent minimal venue.

Modern seating, and sound shaping modifications, but with the original design elements preserved. The back row of this theater would still give you a good view of the performance stage.

Similarly, the Goodyear Theater is dedicated to presenting programs that range from concerts to events for people of all ages; visit their website to learn more about future shows.

You can purchase the theatre’s tickets online or at the box office.

It’s crucial to know that cameras and photos are not permitted in this theater, otherwise, you must request permission in advance from the theater’s administration.

Address: 1201 E Market St, Akron, OH 44305, United States

20. Akron Skate Park

Are you a skater? You might as well come with your favorite skateboard, as this skate park features a variety of skating rinks for individuals of all ages.

This Skate Park is well-known for its lavish size, which spans 19,000 square feet.

Furthermore, the park contains rinks for all levels of skaters, from beginners to intermediates to advanced.

One of the must-stops in Akron if you skate, have a dirt bike or even BMX. They have it all at this skate park and a dirt park overlooking the blimp hanger.

BMX riders enjoy coming here, and even if you don’t do any of these, you may simply stop by to admire some impressive skating exploits

Graffiti is also abundant here, making for an interesting viewing experience.

Best part? It is at no charge and opened all year round.

Address: 990 Derby Downs Dr, Akron, OH 44306, United States

21. Chapel Hill Mall

The whole fun isn’t complete without some really wonderful shopping.

Chapel Hill Mall is one of Akron’s greatest retail mall as there are over 100 stores in this mall.

So, if you’re looking for some of the best deals on anything you want to buy, come down here and check out some of the best deals available.

This mall is a popular shopping destination in Akron.

The shopping experience here is excellent since all of their stores provide convenient shopping.

You’ll constantly find this place busy as it’s a beautiful vista, and you should stop by during your vacation or trip to Akron.

Address: 2000 Brittain RD, Akron, OH 44310, United States

22. Indian Signal Tree, Akron

The Indian signal tree is located in the Chuckery area of Cascade Valley Park.

The tree is huge, magnificent and definitely has a fascinating history.

Besides, there are benches around the tree that make it very nice to take a break and think or read.

The Indian Signal Tree has served as a historical monument in this area for many years and it was said to be a point of reference for Indians.

The Indians were supposed to have carried their canoes through this reference point on their way to Summit Lake.

It was used as a reference point because of its unusual shape, which made it easy to find in the area.

If you’re a history buff who enjoys seeing new places, this is a must-see during your time in Akron.

Address: Peck RD, Akron, OH 44310, United States

23. Nativity Museum and Replica of Bethlehem’s Cave

This is a replica of the Bethlehem Cave in the basement of a church. Don’t let the simplicity of it all deter you from taking a trip to see this!

Even though Israel is recognized to be the birthplace of Jesus, you can visit the Nativity Museum and replica of Bethlehem’s cave if you want to meet a replica of the place that is thought to be the birthplace of Jesus.

A visit to Bethlehem Cave will show you a facsimile of Jesus’ birthplace.

The museum also includes the Manger, the Altar of the Magi, and the Altar of the Nativity.

The public is welcome to take tours of these museums. You can either embark on a self-directed tour or take a guided tour reservation here.

Address: 2425 Myersville RD, Akron, OH 44312-4951, United States

24. Dr. Bob’s home, Akron

The Dr. Robert Smith Home, often known as Dr. Bob’s Home, is a historic house museum in Akron, Ohio.

When you arrive at Dr. Bob’s Home, the first things you’ll notice are the twelve stone and wooden steps leading up to the front porch.

Dr. Bob Smith (often known as “Dr. Bob”), one of the co-founders of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), lived there from 1915 to 1950, when it was completed.

In short, the tour is worth it many times over.

Dr. Bob was such an alcoholic as a result, he hid bottles from his family inside the bricks of the building. You can see them on the tour.

You can also see the living room and the typewriter where it all began. After the tour, be sure to visit Dr. Bob’s grave. Besides, the cemetery is just down the road and there are signs inside the cemetery directing you to his grave.

Address: 855 Ardmore Ave, Akron, OH 44302, United States

25. Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, Akron

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad is a tourist excursion railway.

It has been running for over 40 years, providing picturesque train journeys across the Cuyahoga Valley, including crossings of Ohio and the Peninsula.

Besides providing event excursions year-round, they also offer membership opportunities and have over 1000 members.

Ride the round trip National Park Scenic tour, which lasts two and a half hours, to discover the many natural treasures of Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Before returning to the train, check out the park’s attractions.

26. Cummings Center for the History of Psychology

The Cummings Center for the History of Psychology is a research institute dedicated to the study of psychology’s past, and if you are planning a trip to the University of Akron, include a visit to the Cummings Center for the History of Psychology.

The artifacts, films, documents, and historical photographs that tell the history of human sciences are among the highlights of this museum.

They also include a portion that is a historical repository of papers and records from some of the most well-known figures in psychology.

The lower level, however, focuses on the history of psychology and includes several interactive exhibits kids will love.

Adults will get a lot out of the more informative exhibits which give context to a lot of social history Upstairs, moreover, there are more galleries here including, the permanent collections of shopping bags and Indigenous cultural artifacts, alongside other traveling exhibits of art and culture.

For the most part, you could breeze through in an hour or spend an entire afternoon taking it all in.

Address: 73 S College St, Akron, OH 44325, United States

27. Goodyear Airdock, Akron

known to hold the title for being the world’s largest building without an inner support during its prime, the Goodyear airdock broke records during its time

This historic landmark in Akron should be on your top list of things to do in Akron when you visit.

Goodyear Airdock was erected in 1929 and was estimated to be worth $2.2 million at the time, which is equivalent to $25.75 million today.

The first two ships to be built here were the USS Akron (ZRS-4) and USS Macon (ZRS-5). Their construction began in 1931 and ended in 1933, respectively.

Subsequently, these ships were estimated to be 785 feet long, which gives you an idea of how long this dock span is.

Keep an eye out for the massive structure on your trip to Akron.

Location: S side of the Akron Fulton International Airport, Akron, Ohio

Start planning your trip to Akron

With a blend of old-world feels, 19th-century monuments all over, and the modern era, you will find that this city is filled with hidden gems all over.

In addition, don’t forget to put on your investigator’s cap on your visit to the police museum.

You can schedule your vacation to coincide with some of the city’s events and activities.

Above all, to make the most of your stay in Akron, you should visit some of these places.