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.
Things to do in Akron Ohio for Family Fun
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
Phone: 330-375-2550
Website
Akron Rubber Ducks
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 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
Phone: (330) 253-5151
Website
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
We have a railroad right in our own backyard! 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
- A concession car featuring products from locally owned businesses is located on board
Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
27 Ridge St., Akron, OH 44308
Phone: 800-468-4070
Website
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 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- 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
Phone: (330) 376-9185
Website
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
Phone: (330) 666-3711
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 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
- Parking is available at the O'Neil's/State Street Parking Deck at 51 W. State St. for $2 when you have your parking ticket validated at the museum
Cost: $5 for kids and adults (infants 12-months and under free)
Akron Children's Museum
216 S Main St, Akron, OH 44308
Phone: (330) 396-6103
Website
Stan Hywet Hall
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
Phone: 330-836-5533
Website
Read more: Family Fun at Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
Boston Mills 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.
- Upon first visit, 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
Address: 7100 Riverview Rd, Peninsula, OH 44264
Phone: 330-657-2334
Website
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
Phone: (330) 253-2488
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 for $10 in marked lots along Goodyear Blvd and Cook St. (Cash Only)
- Check the website for event dates and times
- All shows are reserved seating
- Refreshments offered on site
Goodyear Theater
1201 E Market St, Akron, OH 44305
Phone: (330) 690-2307
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
Phone: (330) 375-2877
Website
Summit Metro Parks
The Summit Metro Parks serve the Summit County area managing 14,300 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
975 Treaty Line Rd, Akron, OH 44313
Phone: (330) 867-5511
Website
Read More: Hike to the Waterfall at Gorge Metropark
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
- The JSK Café offers food and beverage options
- 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
Phone: (330) 374-8900
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
Phone: (330) 665-3466
Website
Water Works Park
Located in Cuyahoga Falls is the town’s very own Water Works Park. 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 Park
2025 Munroe Falls Ave, Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
Phone: (330) 971-8225
Website
Read more: Water Works Aquatic Center: Outdoor Pool, Waterslides & Lazy River
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
Phone: (330) 971-8418
Website
Know of any great things to do in Akron that we missed? Leave a comment below and let us know so we can add it. Thanks!
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