Akron offers a wide variety of family-friendly events, places and activities. You do not have to travel far to experience sports, art, culture, outdoor exploration, or history. No matter what you are looking for, there truly is something for everyone. Check out our list of the top things to do in Akron, OH.

Here is a list of the best things to see and do in Akron Ohio. There are options for all ages and activities for any season of the year.

Akron Zoo

The Akron Zoo is a wonderful mix of walking, animal viewing and hands-on activities. In addition to the animal fun, there are also beautiful gardens located throughout the property. Be sure to check out the calendar of events to see what activities are happening during your visit.

• 35 acres of exhibits, guest amenities and support facilities>
• Sized for a three to four hour visit, with up-close animal experiences
• Accredited by Association of Zoos and Aquariums
• Additional hands-on activities include: a carousel, Farmland, playground, train ride and chance to feed animals.

Akron Zoo
500 Edgewood Ave, Akron, OH 44307
Website

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Akron Rubber Ducks Canal Park

Canal Park is home to Akron’s own minor league baseball team: the Akron Rubber Ducks! With a large video board, playing surface and clubhouse the facility offers fun for the entire family. Take your family out to a ball game right here in our own community.

• Check the website for tickets, prices and schedules
• Click on the “fan” and “community” sections of the website for details on how fans can get even more involved
• The Game Grill & Bar restaurant is connected to Canal Park
• A team shop is located at the park for fan merchandise

Akron Rubber Ducks
Canal Park, 300 South Main Street, Akron, OH 44308
Website

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad

Take a day trip on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad or plan to ride the train for a special event. Events for all ages take place year round, so be sure to check out the website for details.

• The railroad runs from Independence, OH to Akron, OH
• You can bike or hike the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail and then ride the train back for a discounted rate
• Private car and group rates are available
• There are a variety of excursions that take place throughout the year
• A concession car featuring products from locally owned businesses is located on board

Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
27 Ridge St., Akron, OH 44308
Website

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Akron Art Museum

The Akron Art Museum is a great way to experience world class art right here in Akron. The museum has attractions for both adults and children. Take a look at the website for special events and featured collections throughout the year.

• Admission to the Bud & Susie Rogers Garden is free
• Free admission on Thursdays from 11am to 8pm
• A café is open Tuesday through Sunday featuring products that support local businesses
• Kids and family activities are offered on specific days that focus on hands-on learning

Akron Art Museum
1 S High St, Akron, OH 44308
Website

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Hale Farm and Village

Hale Farm and Village offers a hands-on, old-fashioned farm experience. The farm is set up to be an outdoor living history museum. The 200 year-old property, set within the heart of Cuyahoga Valley, is a unique adventure the entire family will remember!

• Self-guided tours take about two hours to explore the entire property
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and sun protection
• There are 32 historic structures, gardens, farm animals, farm and trade demonstrations and more
• There is a gift shop and café that serves regionally sourced products

Hale Farm and Village
2686 Oak Hill Rd, Bath, OH 44210
Website

BigShots Golf Firestone

BigShots Golf Firestone is so much for for all ages. Simply reserve a time slot online and show up ready for fun! YOu can bring your own clubs or choose from one of their full selection of golf clubs. If you have a lefty in your group, simply ask and they will bring you a set of left handed clubs.

Each tee box has a heater so you can golf year round without worrying about getting cold. To start enter your play information and select the game you want to play. There are quite a lot of game options and our favorite was closest to the pin because it levels the playing field allowing novice and experienced golfers to compete together.

There is a restaurant on site with a wide selection of food and drinks and serves roaming around the facility to ensure you are taken care of.

BigShots Golf Firestone
600 Swartz Rd, Akron, OH 44319
Website

Akron Children’s Museum

Let your children learn through play at the Akron Children’s Museum. Engage with a variety of hands-on activities from a giant light bright to a farmer’s market to a water table (check out the website for a full list of exhibits). The area is set up so that infants and children can all enjoy a day of play!

• Special programs, workshops and events are listed on their calendar year round
• Family and business memberships are available
• Although food/beverage is not allowed in the museum, the Lock 3 Commons are nearby to take a food break and Lock Stop Café offers refreshments
• Discounted parking is available at the O’Neil’s/State Street Parking Deck at 51 W. State St. when you have your parking ticket validated
• at the museum

Akron Children’s Museum
216 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308
Website

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Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens

Built for F. A. Seiberling, founder of Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company, in the early 1900s, this estate allows you to step right into the pages of a storybook. From the estate to the vast grounds and gardens there is a rich history that the entire family will enjoy. Seasonal special events are offered throughout the year as well to add an extra bit of excitement to your trip.

• Several tours are offered of either or both the house and gardens, as well as tours designed specifically for youth
• Molly’s Café is nestled into the carriage house for refreshments
• A gift shop is located on site
• From geocaching to the playgarden there are several activities offered

Stan Hywet Hall
714 N Portage Path, Akron, OH 44303
Website | Our trip to Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

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The Workz

The Workz has a little something for everyone. Located in a refurbished former Falls Theater building, The Workz allows you to step back in time. There is a 5,000-square-foot arcade with new games and classic favorites. Enjoy a round of duckpin bowling right in the middle of the arcade. You can eat while you play at the onsite restaurant.

Inside The Workz, you’ll also find a speakeasy bar with expert mixologists. Live music is hosted on a regular basis, as well as seasonal events. Check out the website for event details, as well as how to book a birthday party.

The Workz
2220 Front St, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Website

Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop

Take a trip down memory lane at Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop. The retro-inspired store has candy wall to wall and floor to ceiling. You will also find vintage gifts and candy-themed goodies. The staff invites you to find your sweet childhood favorites, and they’ll help you track them down if they don’t have them. Grandpa Joe’s is home to “250 candy bars and over 100 bulk candies.” They are also known for their glass bottle soda pops available in a large variety of flavors.

You won’t want to miss out on their candy buffet. Get a box and fill it up with as much candy as you want from their selection of more than 100 candies. If the box closes, then it is $5 (no weight restrictions).

Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop
2156 Front St, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Website

Sense by the Falls

Sense by the Falls invites you to “ignite your senses.” When you walk in you can order a drink (mocktail or cocktail) and select from a cart of delicious teas. Then you choose scents from more than 100 fragrances, as well as your candle holder. They walk you through the process of combining the oils and wax to create your candle.

The shop often has live music and open mic nights. Be sure to check the schedule before your visit. You can also book events and private parties.

Sense by the Falls
1749 Front St Unit C, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Website

Urban Air Adventure Park

Urban Air Adventure Park is the ultimate indoor adventure park for all ages. Experience trampolines, play places, ninja courses, a zip line, flip zone bumper cars and so much more. There are also areas designated specifically for younger children.

Urban Air has a cafe on site. It offers food and party space for birthdays as well. Be sure to check out their deals, memberships and special events.

Urban Air Adventure Park
160 Rothrock Loop, Akron, Ohio 44321
Website

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Boston Mills and Brandywine

Boston Mills and Brandywine are sister ski resorts located just three miles apart in Peninsula, Ohio. The resorts offer skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing during the winter months. In the summer the location hosts Artfest.

• When you arrive, park and go to the base lodge where you can buy tickets and rentals
• Changing areas and lockers are available
• Food and drinks are available in the dining area
• Check out the website for details on Artfest, a nationally recognized fine art show

Boston Mills Brandywine
7100 Riverview Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264
Website

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Akron Civic Theater

A cultural landmark in the Akron community, the Akron Civic Theater was originally built in 1929. The theater seats 5,000 people and welcomes shows for the entire family. Check the website for event details!

• Concessions are located on the Mezzanine Level
• Restrooms are located throughout the theater with changing tables available
• The theater can be rented
• The theater has 26 locations for wheelchairs and their companions

Akron Civic Theater
182 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308
Website

Goodyear Theater

The Goodyear Theater provides a state-of-the-art theater at a historic location. The performance and event venue offers shows for the entire family. Private events are also available for your larger party needs.

• Parking is available at surface lots on Goodyear Blvd.
• Check the website for event dates and times
• All shows are reserved seating
• Refreshments offered on site

Goodyear Theater
201 E Market St, Akron, OH 44305
Website

Lock 3 Akron

Lock 3 offers family-friendly activities all year long! From ice skating in the winter to concerts and fireworks during the summer, the venue has something for everyone. Be sure to check the website for event details.

• The lawn is general admission; you can bring your own chairs and blankets (lawn chair rentals available for small fee)
• Terrace and tent rentals available
• Located in the center of downtown Akron, there are several parking decks and a surface lot surrounding the venue for parking
• Group sales, private rentals, party packages and fundraising opportunities are available

Lock 3 Akron
200 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308
Website

Summit Metro Parks

The Summit Metro Parks serve the Summit County area managing 15,000 acres for your enjoyment. Parks, walking trails and 22.4 miles of the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail are all part of the park system. Join the millions of visitors each year for a great way to experience nature right in your own neighborhood.

• Special events are held at the parks and activities at each park are available year round
• Maps and specific park information are available on the website
• Shelters and lodges are available for rent
• Plant and animal information is accessible on the website

Summit Metro Parks 
Multiple parks location across Summit County
Website

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John S Knight Center

The John S Knight Center is a large convention center located in the heart of Akron. The iconic building hosts conventions, tradeshows and events throughout the year. As northeast Ohio’s premier meeting venue, the center has something for everyone.

• Parking is located throughout nearby decks and surface lots in Akron and the center is connected to the Skywalk, which leads to the
• South Broadway St. parking deck
• Standard size wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis
• Check out the public events page on the website for event dates/times/prices

John S Knight Center
77 E Mill St, Akron, OH 44308
Website

Akron Fossils and Science Center

The Akron Fossils and Science Center provides hands-on educational opportunities to visitors. Their tour puts science directly into your hands by allowing you to interact with fossils, replicas and live animals. They also offer enriching science programs.

• Check the website for details regarding science birthday parties, lecture series, educational days, overnight lock-ins, summer camps and much more
• Truassic Park offers 2-acres of outdoor play and exploration, including a zip-line and mini-golf course
• A daily schedule of activities is available on the website for your visit
• Group rates and parking passes are available

Akron Fossils and Science Center
2080 S Cleveland Massillon Rd, Copley, OH 44321
Website

Water Works Family Aquatic Center

Located in Cuyahoga Falls is the town’s very own Water Works Family Aquatic Center. From a lazy river to the drop or flume slides, Water Works Park has a variety of activities for every age. Check out the website for an overview of all the park has to offer.

• The park features four slides and three pools (including a zero-depth, lazy river and lap lane pool)
• Fun features include: waterfalls, geysers, water sprays and sand area play
• The location offers changing rooms, a concession stand, sun/shade areas and much more
• Rentals and activities are offered

Water Works Family Aquatic Center
2025 Munroe Falls Ave, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Website | Our trip to Water Works Aquatic Center

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Downview Sports Center

Downview Sports Center is a family entertainment center located conveniently in Cuyahoga Falls. It is a division of Cuyahoga Falls Parks & Recreation. With a miniature golf course, batting cages, skate park, driving range and more, there’s fun for the entire family.

• Party packages are available, including: Putter Par-tees, Batting Swing Bandz and Range Fall/Winter Deal
• The 18-hole miniature golf course is accessible for all family members
• The driving range has 32 outdoor hitting stalls, 15-covered and 10-heated tees
• The batting cages have hardball, fast pitch and slow pitch ball machines

Downview Sports Center
1617 Bailey Rd, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Website

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm

Part of the Summit Metroparks System includes F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm. With three trails, two ponds and a rock and herb garden, there is a little something for every nature lover. The visitor center includes a children’s play area, seasonal exhibits, live native animals, a naturalist to answer your questions and a gift shop. Check out the website for details on trails, wildlife and amenities.

• The property includes a deck and fireplace area
• Check out the website for more details on hand feeding chickadees
• Amenities include picnic tables, restrooms and a visitor center (visitor center is closed most Mondays and Tuesdays)
• The grounds include a suspension bridge over a 45-foot deep ravine

F.A. Seiberling Nature Realm
1828 Smith Rd. Akron, OH 44313
Website

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Blossom Music Center

Cuyahoga Falls has its very own outdoor music pavilion: Blossom Music Center. Blossom can host up to 19,000 guests with 5,700 seats available and a lawn for an additional 13,500 people. The facility includes a stage, restaurant, art gallery, gardens and picnic areas.

• Blossom hosts the Cleveland Orchestra for unique, outdoor performances throughout the year
• Check out the website for upcoming events, seating charts and ticket information (including VIP Packages)
• View the website for parking information, including general, premier and VIP options
• Make sure to check the facility rules for lawn details before visiting

Blossom Music Center
1145 W Steels Corners Rd Cuyahoga Falls, 44223
Website

Stricklands Ice Cream

Founded in 1936 right here in Akron, Stricklands Ice Cream has become an award-winning name. Founders, Bill and Florence Stickland, opened the very first location on Triplett Avenue in Akron, Ohio after Bill developed his own recipe and a new machine, called a batch freezer. Using the same recipe and technique, Stricklands offers the same great flavor to ice cream lovers throughout Ohio.

• Stricklands is open daily
• Check the website for hours and locations
• The menu offers ice cream, frozen custard, yogurt and sorbet
• Stricklands offers a Birthday club (check the website for details on how to sign up)

Stricklands Ice Cream
Locations in Akron (Ellet), Cuyahoga Falls, Streetsboro, Green
Website

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Everett Covered Bridge

Nestled within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, you will find the only remaining covered bridge in Summit County. Built in the 1800s, Everett Covered Bridge was key to the transportation system of the time. Today, the bridge is a beautiful spot to visit and photograph.

• Everett Covered Bridge has been named a top spot for photography on public lands (check the website for photography tips)
• Check the website for nearby trail information
• You can view the bridge year-round

Everett Covered Bridge
2370 Everett Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264
Website

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Derby Downs and the All-American Soap Box Derby

Built in 1936, Derby Downs has hosted 76 of the 78 All-American Soap Box Derbies. The location includes the International Soap Box Derby’s headquarter’s building, garage and service area. In 2001, the location added, The Derby Hall of Fame and Museum.

• You can rent out the facility
• The facility hosts a Corporate Derby Challenge
• The facility offers a Build ‘n’ Battle event
• Check out the website for education programs, summer camps and the Soap Box Derby mini program

Derby Downs and the All-American Soap Box Derby
Website

Kent State University Museum

Not technically in Akron, but only a short drive away. Part of the Kent State University system is the Kent State University Museum. The museum is home to eight galleries featuring collections of fashion and decorative arts. Founded in 1985 with an initial contribution from New York dress manufacturers Jerry Silverman and Shannon Rodgers, the museum now contains “one of the most comprehensive teaching collections of fashionable design from the 18th century to present.”

• Purchase tickets in advance on the website
• There is free parking for museum goers (all visitors must register their license plate number on arrival)
• Group tours can be arranged
• The auditorium can be rented for events

Kent State University Museum
515 Hilltop Dr, Kent, OH 44240
Website

More Fun Things to do in Ohio

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• Things to do in Canton – 15 fun filled activities
• Things to Do with Kids in Northeast Ohio – The ultimate list of fun places to go and things to do
• Things to Do This Weekend – Top picks for your weekend adventures