There are many attractions for visitors, including museums, historic sites, parks, gardens, and zoos. Some of the popular museums are the National Inventors Hall of Fame Museum, the Akron Art Museum, and the National First Ladies Library. Some of the historic sites are the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens, the Akron Civic Theatre, and the John Brown Monument. Some of the parks and gardens are the Cuyahoga Falls Riverfront Center, the Cascade Valley Park, and the Summit Metro Parks. Some of the zoos and wildlife attractions are the Akron Zoo, the Boston Mills/Brandywine Ski Resort, and the Glendale Steps. You can also visit the Hale Farm & Village, a living history museum that showcases life in the 19th century.
One of the most iconic places to visit in Akron is the Akron Art Museum. This contemporary art museum offers engaging exhibitions and public programs that promote the understanding and appreciation of contemporary art, particularly pieces created since 1850.
If you are interested in history and want to know more about Akron’s roots, visit the Goodyear World of Rubber Museum. This museum provides a fascinating look at the history of rubber and its importance to the city of Akron.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a must-visit. It’s only a short drive from Akron and offers beautiful trails for hiking and biking, stunning waterfalls, and wildlife sightings.
For a unique experience, check out the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens. This is one of the largest homes in the U.S. that is open to the public. It’s a notable example of the American Country Estate movement during the Industrial Age.
If you’re interested in wildlife, the Akron Zoo is a popular destination. It’s a 50-acre non-profit zoo that houses over 700 animals representing over 90 different species.
Lastly, if you’re a fan of music, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland is just about an hour’s drive from Akron. This iconic museum features exhibits on some of the most famous rock and roll artists in history.
There are also many free or low-cost things to do in downtown Akron, such as visiting the Akron Art Museum, seeing the Akron Soul Train exhibitions, and taking a self-guided tour of Curated Storefront. Additionally, you can watch a game at Canal Park, see an exhibition at Kent State University Museum, or explore the magnificence of the Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens.
Just west of the city center in Akron, Ohio, the 50-acre Akron Zoo is a nonprofit zoo. Over 1,000 animals representing over 100 distinct species can be seen at the Akron Zoo, which receives over 400,000 visitors a year.
What to see in Akron, OH
- Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens: This is a National Historic Landmark and one of the finest examples of Tudor Revival architecture in America. The estate includes five historic buildings and eight historic gardens on 70 acres, and there’s also a butterfly habitat you can visit in the summer.
- Akron Zoo: A great place to visit if you’re interested in animals or have children. The Akron Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals, including endangered Humboldt penguins, snow leopards, Sumatran tigers, and Komodo dragons.
- Akron Art Museum: If you’re into art, this museum houses a collection that specializes in art produced since 1850, with a particular focus on contemporary art.
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Just a short drive from Akron, this is a beautiful spot for hiking, cycling, or just enjoying nature. It’s one of the most-visited national parks in the U.S.
- Lock 3: An outdoor entertainment venue located in the heart of downtown Akron. During the winter, it transforms into an ice skating rink, and in the summer it hosts live music concerts and festivals.