Akron, Ohio: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know Akron produced 90% of the world’s tires during WWII? This “Rubber Capital of the World” has transformed from an industrial powerhouse into a vibrant destination filled with cultural attractions, natural beauty, and unique experiences. While often overshadowed by nearby Cleveland, Akron offers visitors an impressive array of activities that showcase its rich history, artistic spirit, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a day trip, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the best things to do in Akron, Ohio.

Getting to Akron

Akron is conveniently located in northeastern Ohio, making it easily accessible by various transportation methods. The closest major airport is Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), approximately 15 miles south of downtown. Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is another option, about 40 miles north. For those driving, Akron sits at the intersection of several major highways including I-76, I-77, and I-80/Ohio Turnpike.

When to Visit Akron

Akron experiences four distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences for visitors. Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season with warm temperatures (70-85°F) and numerous festivals including the National Hamburger Festival and Rib, White & Blue Festival. Fall (September-November) brings spectacular foliage in Cuyahoga Valley National Park and comfortable temperatures (45-70°F). Winter (December-February) can be cold (20-35°F) with occasional heavy snowfall, but offers winter sports and holiday events. Spring (April-May) features blooming gardens at Stan Hywet Hall and mild temperatures (45-65°F).

Getting Around Akron

Downtown Akron is relatively compact and walkable, though the city’s hilly terrain can make longer walks challenging. The METRO Regional Transit Authority operates bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. For exploring beyond downtown, having a car is recommended, especially for visiting attractions like Cuyahoga Valley National Park or Stan Hywet Hall. Akron also offers Summit Bike Share, a free bicycle rental program with stations throughout downtown, perfect for exploring the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail.

Where to Stay in Akron

Akron offers accommodations for every budget and preference. Downtown provides convenient access to museums, restaurants, and nightlife, with options ranging from boutique hotels to national chains. The Northside District features trendy lodging near restaurants and breweries. For a more natural setting, consider staying near Cuyahoga Valley National Park, where you’ll find charming bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. The Highland Square neighborhood offers a bohemian vibe with nearby cafes and shops.

Top Attractions in Akron

Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

This magnificent 65-room Tudor Revival manor house was once home to F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Built between 1912-1915, it’s now Akron’s first and largest National Historic Landmark. Visitors can tour the meticulously preserved mansion where approximately 95% of the furnishings are original. The 70-acre property features stunning gardens including an English garden, Japanese garden, and conservatory. Guided and self-guided tours are available, with admission ranging from $9-21 depending on age and tour type.

Akron Art Museum

Housing over 7,000 works from 1850 to the present, the Akron Art Museum showcases an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, photography, and digital art. The building itself is an architectural marvel, featuring a striking glass and steel structure. The museum offers free admission on Thursdays, making it one of the best things to do in Akron for budget-conscious visitors. Special exhibitions rotate throughout the year, complementing the permanent collection that includes works by regional and internationally renowned artists.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Just a short drive from downtown Akron lies Ohio’s only national park, spanning 33,000 acres along the Cuyahoga River. The park offers over 125 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail. Don’t miss Brandywine Falls, a stunning 65-foot waterfall accessible via a scenic boardwalk. For a unique experience, ride the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which offers regular excursions through the park with a station in downtown Akron. The park is free to enter and open year-round, making it one of the best things to do in Akron for nature lovers.

Lock 3 Park

This downtown outdoor venue serves as Akron’s central gathering space and entertainment hub. During summer, Lock 3 hosts concerts, festivals, and movies under the stars. Winter transforms the space into a wonderland featuring Ohio’s largest outdoor ice skating rink. The park sits along the historic Ohio & Erie Canal, with remnants of the original locks still visible. Throughout the year, Lock 3 hosts events like the Rib, White & Blue Festival and First Night Akron, making it one of the best things to do in Akron for experiencing local culture.

Museums and Cultural Experiences

National Museum of Psychology

This fascinating museum on the University of Akron campus houses the largest collection of psychology artifacts in the United States. Exhibits explore the history of psychology through interactive displays, artifacts from famous experiments, and rare documents. Highlights include items from the Stanford Prison Experiment, Sigmund Freud’s home videos, and vintage psychological testing equipment. Admission is affordable at $10 for adults and $5 for children, with discounts available for students and military personnel.

Akron Children’s Museum

Perfect for families, this interactive museum features nearly 20 hands-on exhibits designed to inspire exploration and discovery. Children can learn about farm-to-table food production, experiment with water features, explore a construction zone, and much more. The museum focuses on play-based learning in a safe, engaging environment. At just $7 per person, it’s one of the best things to do in Akron for families seeking educational entertainment.

Hower House Museum

This 28-room Victorian mansion on the University of Akron campus offers a glimpse into 19th-century life. Built in 1871 for Akron industrialist John Henry Hower, the house features Second Empire Italianate architecture and is filled with original furnishings and artifacts collected from around the world. Guided tours provide insights into the Hower family and Akron’s industrial history. Admission is $10 for adults, with discounts for seniors and students.

Dining and Nightlife

Akron’s culinary scene offers everything from casual eateries to fine dining experiences. Luigi’s Restaurant, a local institution since 1949, serves legendary pizza and Italian classics in a nostalgic setting. The Lockview downtown specializes in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and craft beer. For upscale dining, try Mustard Seed Market & Café, offering organic and locally sourced options.

The Northside District has emerged as Akron’s entertainment hub, featuring breweries like Hoppin’ Frog (known for award-winning craft beers) and Missing Falls Brewery. Jilly’s Music Room offers live music several nights a week with a $5 cover charge on weekends. For a unique experience, visit Ingy’s Piano Bar on Sunday evenings for their free piano karaoke night, a local tradition for over 20 years.

Shopping and Souvenirs

For a taste of Akron’s history, visit The Peanut Shoppe on Main Street, serving fresh-roasted nuts and candies since the 1930s. Don’t leave without trying their Buckeye candies—peanut butter fudge partially dipped in chocolate—a delicious Ohio specialty. Summit Artspace showcases local artists’ work, perfect for finding unique souvenirs. The Northside Marketplace features over 40 local vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to Akron-themed apparel.

For mainstream shopping, Summit Mall in nearby Fairlawn offers over 125 stores and restaurants. Highland Square neighborhood features eclectic boutiques and vintage shops in a bohemian setting. Don’t miss Don Drumm Studios & Gallery, featuring the renowned artist’s distinctive aluminum creations alongside works by other American craftspeople.

Outdoor Activities

Beyond Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Akron offers numerous outdoor spaces to enjoy. The Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail runs through the city, providing 87 miles of flat, scenic paths perfect for walking, running, or cycling. Summit Metro Parks maintains over 14,000 acres of parkland across 16 parks, including Goodyear Heights Metro Park with its hiking trails and fishing pond.

For water enthusiasts, the Portage Lakes south of Akron offer boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. During winter, Boston Mills and Brandywine ski resorts provide downhill skiing and snowboarding just 30 minutes from downtown. Golf lovers can enjoy several public courses including Good Park Golf Course, a municipal course with challenging fairways and reasonable rates.

Practical Tips for Visiting Akron

Why Akron Should Be Your Next Destination

Akron may not top most travelers’ bucket lists, but this vibrant city offers a surprising wealth of experiences that make it worthy of exploration. From the grandeur of Stan Hywet Hall to the natural beauty of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, from innovative museums to a thriving food and craft beer scene, Akron delivers memorable experiences without the crowds and costs of larger destinations. Its rich industrial heritage, combined with ongoing revitalization efforts, creates a unique atmosphere where history meets contemporary culture. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply a new place to discover, Akron’s blend of Midwestern hospitality and unexpected attractions makes it one of Ohio’s most rewarding destinations.