Akron Metropolitan Area Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Akron Metropolitan Area. Our travel guide provides a comprehensive look at this Ohio city's attractions, cuisine, culture, and more.


Akron Metropolitan Area Travel Guide

Located in Northeast Ohio, the Akron Metropolitan Area offers visitors a blend of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. From hiking and biking trails to world-class museums and historical sites, Akron has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Akron Metropolitan Area

Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary when visiting Akron:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens
  • Akron Art Museum
  • National Inventors Hall of Fame
  • Akron Civic Theatre
  • Perkins Stone Mansion

Natural Attractions of Akron Metropolitan Area: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  • Portage Lakes State Park
  • Goodyear Heights Metro Park
  • Summit Lake Nature Center
  • Cascade Valley Metro Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Akron Metropolitan Area

The Akron Metropolitan Area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and biking trails to explore. These trails offer breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Towpath Trail
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park Bike/Hike Trail
  • Freedom Trail
  • Portage Hike & Bike Trail
  • Summit Metro Parks Bike & Hike Trail

Best Things to Do in Akron Metropolitan Area: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping adventures or relaxing sightseeing tours, Akron has plenty to offer. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Goodyear Blimp Airship Tour
  • Akron Segway Tours
  • Akron Zoo
  • All-American Soap Box Derby
  • Akron Symphony Orchestra

Week-Long Itinerary for Akron Metropolitan Area

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Akron:

Day Activity
Day 1 Tour Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Day 2 Visit Akron Art Museum and Summit County Historical Society
Day 3 Explore Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens and Perkins Stone Mansion
Day 4 Experience outdoor adventures at Portage Lakes State Park
Day 5 Attend an Akron RubberDucks baseball game or catch a show at Akron Civic Theatre
Day 6 Take a tour of the National Inventors Hall of Fame or Akron Fossils & Science Center
Day 7 Shop for souvenirs at Highland Square or Northside Marketplace

Food and Drink Scene of Akron Metropolitan Area

Akron’s food and drink scene offers something for every taste. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Swenson’s Galley Boy Burger
  • Hamburger Station Cheeseburger
  • Luigi’s Pizza
  • Cilantro Thai & Sushi Restaurant Pad Thai
  • Diamond Deli Reuben Sandwich

Local Beverages

  • Hoppin’ Frog Brewery Beer
  • Thirsty Dog Brewing Company Beer
  • Nauti Vine Winery Wine
  • Mudhouse Coffee
  • Akron Honey Company Mead

Where to Stay in Akron Metropolitan Area: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Akron offers a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some options:

  • Hilton Akron/Fairlawn
  • Courtyard Akron Stow
  • Econo Lodge Akron
  • International Youth Hostel

What to Buy in Akron Metropolitan Area: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Want to take a piece of Akron home with you? Here are some souvenirs and local products to consider:

  • Akron Art Museum merchandises
  • RubberDucks baseball cap
  • Sweet Mary’s Bakery Brownies
  • White House Chicken Sauce
  • Akron Honey Company Honey

Local Culture and Customs of Akron Metropolitan Area

Akron’s local culture is a blend of Midwestern charm and industrial heritage. The city is known for its sports teams, craft breweries, and historical landmarks. It’s also home to a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues.

Best Time to Visit Akron Metropolitan Area

The best time to visit Akron is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is warm and sunny. The fall season (September to November) is also a great time to visit, with the changing leaves and numerous festivals. Winter (December to February) can be cold and snowy but offers winter sports activities. Spring (March to May) is a great time for hiking trails and becoming close to nature.

Do’s and Don’ts of Akron Metropolitan Area

Do:

  • Explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  • Attend an Akron RubberDucks baseball game
  • Try the local cuisine
  • Take a tour of Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public areas
  • Litter
  • Be disrespectful towards local customs and traditions
  • Park in residential neighbourhoods

Safety and Health

Safety in Akron Metropolitan Area

Akron is considered a safe city, but it’s always best to take precautions when traveling. Here are some safety tips:

  • Stay in well-lit areas at night
  • Be aware of your surroundings
  • Keep valuables out of sight
  • Use caution when using ATMs

Health in Akron Metropolitan Area

Akron has excellent medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Make sure you have health insurance when traveling.

Getting to Akron Metropolitan Area: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Akron Metropolitan Area

  • Akron-Canton Regional Airport
  • Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

Bus Stations Near Akron Metropolitan Area

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • Akron Metro Bus

Other Options

  • Amtrak

How to Get Around in Akron Metropolitan Area

Akron offers several transportation options, including public transport, taxis, and car rentals. Here are some options:

  • Akron Metro Bus
  • Trolley Tours of Akron
  • Uber and Lyft
  • Car rentals from Enterprise Rent-A-Car and Avis Car Rental

Where to Go Next from Akron Metropolitan Area: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have time to explore beyond Akron, here are some nearby destinations worth visiting:

  • Cleveland, Ohio
  • Canton, Ohio
  • Youngstown, Ohio
  • Erie, Pennsylvania
  • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Conclusion

Akron Metropolitan Area is a charming and vibrant city that offers something for everyone. From historical sites to outdoor adventures and delicious food and drink, you’ll never run out of things to see and do here. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a week-long vacation, we hope this travel guide has inspired you to visit Akron!