Areas & Neighborhoods in Akron
Modern Akron was born from the merging of multiple towns, which has helped shape its skyline of diverse architectural styles. Each neighborhood in the city carries its own unique character and look, telling the story of Akron's development.
Downtown
Centered around the Ohio and Erie Canal that divides the city, Downtown Akron is where local culture thrives. The area is home to a myriad of galleries and the Summit Artspace, a community art center that hosts the monthly Akron Artwalk. Downtown is also marked by a buzzing nightlife scene and eateries ranging from casual to fine dining.
Highland Square
This eclectic neighborhood is home to many of the city's artists and musicians, with public art installations dotting the area. Highland Square puts on the annual PorchRokr Music and Arts Festival, which showcases local talent every summer. Nearby, you can explore Portage Path, the historic trail where Native Americans carried canoes between the Cuyahoga and Tuscarawas Rivers.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Stretched over 32,572 acres (13,181 ha), the Cuyahoga Valley National Park preserves the natural landscapes around the Cuyahoga River. Delve into the beautiful park with a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad, which operates on a historic track laid down in the late 1800s. Within the park, check out hiking and bicycling trails like the Summit County Trail, and keep an eye out for wildlife and bird species.
What to See in Akron
From historic sites to gorgeous, untouched landscapes, Akron has no shortage of breathtaking sights. Immerse yourself in nature by bird-watching or hiking through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. For a look into Akron’s history, visit Glendale Cemetery, listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its stately mausoleums and impressive headstones, or catch a glimpse of what life was like in the early 1900s with a tour through the 65 majestic Tudor Revival-style rooms of the Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens. The sprawling estate also includes recreational spaces for all ages.
Sightseeing in Akron
Akron is full of cultural and artistic events to discover. Visit sites like the Hower House, a 1871 mansion and National Historic Landmark that's lauded for its Second Empire Italianate architecture, or the house of abolitionist John Brown, which aims to educate visitors about Akron's history. The city's modern heritage is apparent in its many festivals and celebrations of art, such as the monthly Akron Artwalk, in which local artists showcase their crafts and discuss their processes. The Akron Art Museum houses a large collection of contemporary art and 20th century photography from around the world. You can catch local musicians performing live at the Artwalk and at the outdoor venue at Lock 3, which hosts weekly concerts during the summer and an ice skating rink in winter. And don’t leave town without swinging by the famous Swensons Drive-In burger joint, one of many contenders in Akron’s annual National Hamburger Festival, which kicks off each summer.
