Kent Travel Guide

Everything you need to know to plan your trip to Kent, including where to go, what to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Kent

Kent, Ohio, is a charming college town located in the Akron Metropolitan Area in Northeast Ohio. Home to Kent State University, this vibrant community offers visitors a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, as well as an array of exciting activities and events.

List of Places to Visit in Kent

No matter what your interests may be, there is something for everyone in Kent. Whether you want to learn more about the town’s rich history, explore its beautiful natural surroundings, or enjoy some of the best food and drink in the region, there are plenty of places to visit in Kent. Here are some of the highlights:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Kent State University Museum: This museum features an extensive collection of fashion and decorative arts, including rare textiles, costumes, and furnishings from around the world.
  • The Kent Historical Society Museum: Located in the historic Marvin Kent Home, this museum showcases the history and heritage of Kent and the surrounding area.
  • The Kent Stage: This historic theater offers a variety of live performances, including concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical productions.

Natural Attractions of Kent: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Cuyahoga River Water Trail: This 22-mile water trail offers visitors the chance to explore the scenic beauty of the Cuyahoga River by kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard.
  • The Portage Hike and Bike Trail: This 34-mile trail runs through Kent and the surrounding area, offering visitors the chance to hike or bike through beautiful natural scenery.
  • The Kent Bog State Nature Preserve: This unique wetland area offers visitors the chance to see rare and endangered plants and wildlife, as well as stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kent

If you’re looking for a great way to explore Kent’s natural beauty, there are plenty of hiking and biking routes to choose from. Some of the most popular options include:

  • The Portage Hike and Bike Trail: This 34-mile route runs through Kent and the surrounding area, offering visitors the chance to hike or bike through beautiful natural scenery.
  • The Standing Rock Trail: This 3-mile trail takes visitors through a lush forest and offers stunning views of the Cuyahoga River.
  • The Kent Bog Boardwalk Trail: This short trail takes visitors through the heart of the Kent Bog State Nature Preserve, offering stunning views of the unique wetland ecosystem.

Best Things to Do in Kent: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, there are plenty of things to do in Kent. Here are some of the highlights:

  • Take a tour of the Kent State University Museum: This museum features an extensive collection of fashion and decorative arts, including rare textiles, costumes, and furnishings from around the world.
  • Explore the Kent Historical Society Museum: Located in the historic Marvin Kent Home, this museum showcases the history and heritage of Kent and the surrounding area.
  • Enjoy a live performance at The Kent Stage: This historic theater offers a variety of live performances, including concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical productions.
  • Go kayaking or canoeing on the Cuyahoga River: The Cuyahoga River Water Trail offers visitors the chance to explore the scenic beauty of the river by kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kent

If you’re planning to spend a week in Kent, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

  • Day 1: Visit the Kent State University Museum and take a tour of the campus.
  • Day 2: Explore the Kent Historical Society Museum and take a walk through downtown Kent.
  • Day 3: Go kayaking or canoeing on the Cuyahoga River.
  • Day 4: Enjoy a live performance at The Kent Stage.
  • Day 5: Take a hike on the Portage Hike and Bike Trail.
  • Day 6: Visit the Kent Bog State Nature Preserve and go birdwatching.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy some of the best food and drink in Kent!

Food and Drink Scene of Kent

Kent is home to an array of restaurants and bars, offering everything from classic American fare to international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes, as well as local beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • The Half-Pound Cuyahoga Burger at Ray’s Place: This classic burger joint is a Kent legend, and the Cuyahoga Burger is a must-try for any visitor.
  • The Pad Thai at Thai Topaz: This family-owned restaurant offers some of the best Thai food in the region, with the Pad Thai being a standout dish.
  • The Mac and Cheese at Laziza: This Mediterranean restaurant may not seem like the place to get great Mac and Cheese, but it’s a true hidden gem.

Local Beverages

  • The Madcap Brew Co.: This local brewery is famous for its creative, high-quality craft beers.
  • The Ohio 27 at Bricco: This delicious cocktail is made with local Ohio-made whiskey.

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

Kent offers a variety of accommodation options to suit any traveler’s needs and budget. Some popular options include:

  • The Kent State University Hotel and Conference Center: Located on campus, this hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as conference and event space.
  • The Kent State University Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is located on campus and offers dorm-style rooms with shared bathrooms and a communal kitchen.
  • The Kent State University Guesthouse: This historic home offers comfortable and charming rooms, just a short walk from downtown Kent.

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

Kent is home to a variety of unique and locally-made products that make for great souvenirs and gifts. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Kent State University Apparel and Merchandise: Show your school spirit with a t-shirt, sweatshirt, or other merchandise from the KSU student store.
  • Handmade Soaps and Candles from Lavender Moon: This local store offers a variety of handmade soaps, candles, and other bath and body products.
  • Artisanal Cheeses from Kent Cheesemonger: This local cheese shop offers a variety of artisanal cheeses from around the world, as well as locally-made favorites.

Local Culture and Customs of Kent

Kent is a welcoming and friendly community, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as its commitment to sustainability and environmentalism.

Best Time to Visit Kent

The best time to visit Kent is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and you can enjoy the beautiful parks, trails, and outdoor activities without the crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kent

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore the town’s unique history and cultural attractions.
  • Do try some of the local food and drink.
  • Do take advantage of the many outdoor activities and scenic views.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations or directions from locals.
  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes!

Safety and Health

Safety in Kent

Kent is a safe and welcoming community, but visitors should exercise the same caution and common sense that they would in any unfamiliar place.

Health in Kent

Visitors to Kent should make sure they are up to date on routine vaccinations and take basic precautions like washing their hands regularly to prevent the spread of illness.

Getting to Kent: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kent is easily accessible by plane, bus, or car. Here are some options to consider:

Airports Near Kent

The closest airport to Kent is the Akron-Canton Airport, located just 20 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Kent

Greyhound and Megabus both offer service to Akron, which is just a short drive or bus ride from Kent.

Other Options

If you’re driving, Kent is easily accessible from several major highways, including I-76 and I-80.

How to Get Around in Kent

Kent is a walkable town, and many of the most popular attractions are located within walking distance of each other. For longer trips, there are several transportation options, including bike rentals and a local bus service.

Where to Go Next from Kent: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Northeast Ohio, there are plenty of nearby destinations to consider. Here are a few highlights:

  • Cleveland: Just a short drive or bus ride from Kent, Cleveland is home to world-class museums, a vibrant arts and culture scene, and some of the best food and drink in the region.
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Located just a few miles north of Kent, this beautiful national park offers visitors the chance to hike, bike, and explore some of Ohio’s most beautiful natural scenery.
  • Amish Country: Located just a short drive south of Kent, Ohio’s Amish Country offers visitors a glimpse into a unique and traditional way of life.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or just relaxing and enjoying some great food and drink, Kent has something to offer everyone. With its beautiful natural surroundings, vibrant arts and culture scene, and friendly and welcoming community, it’s no wonder that visitors from all over the country flock to this charming college town!

Kent, Ohio Downtown Kent, Ohio Downtown The Kent Central Gateway is the central hub of the local bus network. The Kent Central Gateway is the central hub of the local bus network. The campus Pagoda on the hill where the national guard stood has become a symbol of the May 4th shootings. The campus Pagoda on the hill where the national guard stood has become a symbol of the May 4th shootings. The Cuyahoga River winding through Kent in the Fall. A number of parks and trails meander alongside the river. The Cuyahoga River winding through Kent in the Fall. A number of parks and trails meander alongside the river. The Kent State Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of theatrical and musical performances. The Kent State Center for the Performing Arts hosts a variety of theatrical and musical performances. The Kent State Basketball team may not be nationally known, but important games have a vigorous atmosphere. The Kent State Basketball team may not be nationally known, but important games have a vigorous atmosphere. The Theodore Roosevelt High School Rough Rider marching band The Theodore Roosevelt High School Rough Rider marching band The Kent Industrial District near downtown. Many of the old industrial buildings and facilities have been repurposed as shops and parks. The Kent Industrial District near downtown. Many of the old industrial buildings and facilities have been repurposed as shops and parks. Franklin Hall at Kent State University Franklin Hall at Kent State University The Kent Free Library offers free Wi-Fi, and a place to relax. The Kent Free Library offers free Wi-Fi, and a place to relax. A bullet hole through a sculpture, a result of the wanton shooting by the national guard. A bullet hole through a sculpture, a result of the wanton shooting by the national guard.