Fairlawn Travel Guide

Explore Fairlawn, Ohio with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to stay, and local culture to experience in this Northeast Ohio city.


Introduction to Fairlawn

Fairlawn is a charming city located in Northeast Ohio in the Akron Metropolitan Area. The city is a hub for business and leisure travelers, with plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. Situated in the Midwest region of the United States, Fairlawn is a beautiful destination with a rich history and culture that is worth exploring.

List of Places to Visit in Fairlawn

Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural sites, or dining and shopping experiences, Fairlawn has something for everyone. Here are some of the best places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Fairlawn is rich in history and culture, with several museums and historical sites to explore. Here are a few of the best:

  • Dr. Bob’s Home: This National Historic Landmark is the former home of Dr. Bob Smith, co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous. Visitors can tour the home and learn about Dr. Bob’s life and legacy.

  • Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens: This stunning historic home and gardens was built in 1915 and was once the residence of F.A. Seiberling, co-founder of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.

  • Akron Art Museum: This museum features a collection of art from the 1850s to the present day, including contemporary art exhibitions, special events, and a variety of programs for visitors of all ages.

Natural Attractions of Fairlawn: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who love outdoor adventures and nature, Fairlawn offers plenty of opportunities. Here are a few to consider:

  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park: This beautiful national park offers a variety of hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. Visitors can also bike the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, go horseback riding, and explore the park’s historic sites.

  • Furnace Run Metro Park: This park features hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and fishing spots.

  • Fairlawn Nature Preserve: This beautiful nature preserve offers several hiking trails and the chance to observe a variety of wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fairlawn

For those who love hiking and biking, Fairlawn offers a variety of scenic trails. Here are a few to consider:

  • Lake Dorothy Trail: This trail offers a scenic 2.3-mile loop around Lake Dorothy in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

  • Summit Metro Parks Bike & Hike Trail: This 34-mile trail extends from Akron to Bedford and offers beautiful views of the area.

  • Towpath Trail: This 85-mile trail follows the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal and offers stunning views of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Best Things to Do in Fairlawn: Activities and Tours

Fairlawn offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are a few of the best:

  • Wine Tasting Tours: Northeast Ohio is home to several award-winning wineries, and Fairlawn offers several wine tour options for visitors to explore.

  • Pavilion Mall: This outdoor shopping center features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

  • Movie Night at the Park: During the summer months, the city hosts movie nights at the park, featuring family-friendly movies and plenty of snacks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fairlawn

For those planning a week-long visit to Fairlawn, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1:

  • Visit Dr. Bob’s Home
  • Explore Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens

Day 2:

  • Hike Lake Dorothy Trail
  • Have lunch at a local restaurant
  • Wine tasting at a nearby winery

Day 3:

  • Explore the Akron Art Museum
  • Enjoy a picnic at Furnace Run Metro Park

Day 4:

  • Visit the Fairlawn Nature Preserve
  • Bike the Towpath Trail

Day 5:

  • Enjoy some retail therapy at Pavilion Mall
  • Attend a movie night at the park

Day 6:

  • Explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park
  • Go horseback riding

Day 7:

  • Take a wine tasting tour of the region
  • Have dinner at a local restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Fairlawn

Fairlawn is home to a variety of delicious cuisine and local beverages. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogies: These Polish dumplings are a local favorite, and many restaurants in the area serve them.

  • Bratwurst: German-style bratwurst is another popular local dish, often served at local festivals and events.

  • Hot Dogs: Despite being an American classic, Fairlawn is particularly well known for their hot dogs, which can be found at many local diners.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer: Northeast Ohio is home to several craft breweries, and many local restaurants and bars serve these locally brewed beers.

  • Wine: The region’s fertile soil and proximity to Lake Erie has made it a thriving region for vineyards, and the area is known for its delicious wines.

Where to Stay in Fairlawn: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Fairlawn offers a variety of accommodations options to suit various budgets. Here are a few of the best:

  • Hilton Akron Fairlawn: This hotel offers a convenient location and features an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant.

  • DoubleTree by Hilton Akron/Fairlawn: This hotel features spacious, modern guest rooms and suites, an indoor pool, and a 24-hour fitness center.

  • Comfort Inn & Suites: This budget-friendly option offers comfortable guest rooms, with amenities that include free breakfast, a fitness center, and a business center.

What to Buy in Fairlawn: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Fairlawn, here are a few to consider:

  • Local Wine: The region is known for its delicious wines, so be sure to bring home a few bottles.

  • Handmade Goods: Local artists and artisans offer handmade goods, such as pottery, candles, and jewelry, which make for unique souvenirs.

  • Local Food: Local food items such as pierogies, bratwurst, and hot sauce can be found at many local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Fairlawn

Fairlawn is a friendly, welcoming city, and visitors can expect to encounter kind and hospitable locals. It is important to respect the area’s history and culture and to be respectful of others. As in many parts of the United States, tipping is customary for servers and other service industry workers.

Best Time to Visit Fairlawn

The best time to visit Fairlawn is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild and there are a variety of outdoor activities and events taking place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fairlawn

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Enjoy the beautiful outdoor recreational areas
  • Visit local museums and historical sites

Don’t:

  • Engage in disrespectful behavior
  • Litter or damage natural areas
  • Ignore traffic laws

Safety and Health

When visiting Fairlawn, it is important to keep safety and health in mind. Here are a few tips:

Safety in Fairlawn

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking alone at night.
  • Lock your car and take valuables with you when parking.
  • Follow all traffic laws when driving or biking in the area.

Health in Fairlawn

  • Stay hydrated during the summer months, as temperatures can be high.
  • Wear insect repellent to prevent bites from ticks or mosquitos when hiking or spending time outdoors.

Getting to Fairlawn: Transportation Options and Logistics

Fairlawn is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane.

Airports Near Fairlawn

  • Akron-Canton Regional Airport is the closest airport to Fairlawn, located approximately 30 minutes away.

Bus Stations Near Fairlawn

  • Greyhound Lines has a station located in downtown Akron, about 20 minutes from Fairlawn.

Other Options

  • Several major highways run through Fairlawn, including I-77 and I-80, making it easily accessible by car.

How to Get Around in Fairlawn

Fairlawn is easily navigable by car or bike, and there are also several cab and ride-sharing options available.

Where to Go Next from Fairlawn: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to continue exploring Northeast Ohio, here are a few nearby destinations to consider:

  • Cleveland: A short drive north of Fairlawn is the city of Cleveland, home to several museums and cultural attractions, like the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

  • Canton: Located to the east of Fairlawn is Canton, where visitors can experience the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

  • Geneva-on-the-Lake: About 90 minutes east of Fairlawn is Geneva-on-the-Lake, a charming resort town located on Lake Erie.

Conclusion

Fairlawn is a beautiful destination in Northeast Ohio, offering a variety of attractions and experiences for visitors. From beautiful hiking trails to delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city.

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